NOTE: This fanfic is based on Christopher Paolini's work, but in my words. I know it suxs, but hope you like it! My very first one so please bear with me.

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The music of nature was in everything. It was in the rushing waterfall of the crystalline lake. It was in the cricket's loud chirps, and in the wind. An eerily harmonious sound rose over the waterfall's loud voice. The enchanting notes of a reed flute calmed the wild, giving it peace.

A young girl sat crossed legged on a rock basking in the sun's warm rays. Her long white blond hair lay over her naked shoulders. Beside her lay an extremely large pearl colored dragon. The dragon had its wings folded and its head resting beside the child's leg.

In everything there was life growing. The plants stretched out their leaves and looked towards the sun. The unwavering song from the child's flute caused the dragon to stir.

Do you remember Glaedr little one?

Yes, I do Thalion. Why do you ask?

That noise you make is sad. It reminds me of the golden dragon and his rider, Thalion said sadly.

Do not worry little one. I'll stop playing then, she said.

Thalion snorted and nudged her in the leg. Your music calms me Illeria. Keep playing please.

Illeria set her flute down and scratched the ridge above Thalion's eye. Living in an abandoned elf city was her life now. Since Nadinel was deserted, it gave the two a place to survive without anyone knowing. Only occasionally did Illeria have to go into cities for certain supplies.

The Agaetí Blödhren is soon approaching Thalion. Have you anything to offer up to Islanzadi? Illeria said softly standing up and walking towards the lake of fresh water. She slipped her foot in and shivered. The water was ice cold to the touch.

I forgot all about it. What are you doing?

You know, I do not know as well. Illeria laughed and swept her white hair away from her eyes and twirled around. I love being free like this. Why should we go back? I mean it is not as if anyone knows we exist.

That part was true. No one knew Thalion and his rider Illeria existed. They hid in the deepest part of the forest and stayed to themselves. Never emerging unless needed.

We have to go back some time. What about Oromis and Glaedr? They will need our help soon. Even though they can't remember us, Thalion mumbled as he stood up and stretched his wings. I am hungry. Do you want anything while I'm off hunting?

No. I will stick with the fruit here. I can't eat little animals like you, Illeria said cringing and slipping into the water farther. She heated it up with a quick spell and relaxed. Thalion was right. Oromis needed their help and it was their duty as Dragon and Rider to protect the people of Alagaësia no matter what.

Being a dragon rider had changed Illeria's life in so many ways. She had bonded with a creature thought no longer to exist and had a reason to live. Strangely enough though, she would never be here if not for Galbatorix and Shruikan. Her worst enemies taught her everything she knew.

All thanks to the man who killed her parents.