The Path to Evil
Chapter One: Nightmares
Galbatorix suddenly awoke from the same nightmare he had been having frequently for the past 11 years. In which he saw an ancient version of himself with a magnificent black dragon duelling with a young Rider, who appeared to be an elf, seated upon a beautiful blue dragon. They battled in what seemed to be a gigantic hall, covered with flags which bore a black symbol of some sort with a red background. The two continued battling for what seemed like hours, their swords mere lights dancing around as they let off sparks with each powerful blow.
Eventually, the older Galbatorix uttered a word in the ancient language, one which he had never heard before, and from his whitened palm sprung a jet of black light. This black light shifted and moved until it became the shape of a sword. This sword jumped towards the young Rider and immediately began to attack him. The Rider was unprepared and was engulfed in attacks faster then the eye could see.
When the older Galbatorix finally released the spell, the Rider seemed as close to death as possible. Pleased with his victory, the older Galbatorix approached the Rider. But with his last breath, the Rider astonishingly lifted his blue blade, and with tremendous force threw it at the older Galbatorix. The blade caught him in the heart and he looked at the blade in shock. For a few moments the two riders stayed on their dragons, they then slid off and fell. Their two dragons then begin to claw at one another, and that is when his nightmare ends.
This nightmare had plagued his dreams ever since he began his training as a Rider.
"One would think that the most promising Rider of the Doru Areaba academy would be able to wake up on time".
At the entrance to his room, stood Morzan, he was much younger then Galbatorix and had only just begun his training, he had hair as red as blood and stood slightly shorter than Galbatorix. And there by his side stood Brom, a young fellow he didn't know too well but seemed to be a good friend of Morzan.
"Is it time for training?" asked Galbatorix.
"Aye, you have little time left to prepare yourself. I hear that Master Meradoth is not very forgiving. Well, we bid you farewell friend, Master Oromis is expecting us" Morzan Replied
"Farewell Morzan"
As soon as they left, Galbatorix dressed into his dark green robes, identical to the colour of Galzra's scales. Galzra was Galbatorix's dragon. She was known for her beautiful green scales, Galbatorix could not have wished for a greater friend, for she was a mighty dragon and Galbatorix believed that she could not be slain by any mere mortal.
Shall we be off? I'm not too keen on facing Meradoth's wrath… Queried Galzra.
Aye, let me just sheath Filronel and we'll be off. Filronel was Galbatorix's rusty old sword. Galbatorix had never received a proper blade, because traditionally it was the parents that bought their children elven-crafted swords, coloured to match the scales of their dragon. But Galbatorix had never had any parents, and such blades cost fortunes. Filronel was merely a standard military issue blade, rusted with use and age.
I know Hatchlings that move faster then you! Complained Galzra.
Of all possible dragons to hatch, I receive the one with a sense of humour! Joked Galbatorix.
Oh hush! You and I both know that Master Meradoth has high hopes for us. Why else would one of the most renowned Riders choose us as one of their apprentices? Stated Galzra
Truthfully, I find Master Meradoth quite odd. As famous as he is for his numerous victories in battle, he doesn't seem very popular amongst the other Master Riders. Galbatorix said, as he climbed on the back of Galzra and braced himself for their departure.
Jealousy perhaps? He does spend much of his time in his room speaking words in no known language to Alagaësia. Galzra stated as they flew among the clouds, watching the ground below them roll away.
Aye true, well it will only be 3 short years until we too are Masters, protecting Alagaësia from danger. It's amazing how far I've come from the young orphan growing up in Belatona. And look at me now! A Rider in the Academy of Doru Areaba training to uphold the great honour of the Dragon Riders! Galbatorix said
Ah young one, this is why I chose to hatch for you. You have frequently told me of your dream for an Alagaësia free of war and carnage. I hatched for you because I felt that, as a Rider, you would truly make a difference. You have a gift Galbatorix, you are stronger and wiser then any other apprentice at this academy! Galzra said
Thank you, it is true though. I dream of the day that I may be able to lead the Riders for the good future of Alagaësia. Hopefully I would be as good as a leader as Vrael himself! Thought Galbatorix.
Here we are…