Chapter One

Eragon and Oromis sat side by side as they meditated in the shade of a big oak tree that protected them from the merciless sun. Eragon's stomach rumbled as he struggled to keep is mind off the hot tea and pastries inside Oromis's hut. Saphira and Glaedr were studying war technique in the air not too far off.

Oromis opened one eye to look sidelong at Eragon,"So, who are you taking to the ball?"

Eragon opened his eyes on confusion," What ball Master?"

"It is Queen Islanzadi's birthday in three days and we all thought that it would be a pleasant idea to hold her a formal ball in her honor." By now both of his eyes were open;" Who are you going to take?"

Eragon's mind immediately went to Arya," I-I don't know."

"Anyone special in mind?" Oromis asked with a sly grin on his face.

"No..." Does Oromis know of my hidden love for Arya?

"You should find someone soon, I for one am taking Queen Islanzadi herself. I wouldn't be surprised if Saphira and Glaedr accompanied each other."

"Does Saphira know about the Queen Islanzadi's ball?"

"I assume Glaedr has told her by now, and asked to escort her."

That will sure make her happy Thought Eragon.

"Come, let's spar before it gets too hot," said Oromis as he stood up. Eragon fallowed with stiff legs as he felt the weight of the replacement sword hitched around his waist. He still missed the feel of Zarroc by his side. Eragon pushed those thought out of his mind as he and Oromis began the dance of the sword.

Arya walked toward the edge of the wood with a young Elvin girl close behind. Arya turned to the girl and handed her a small, leather pouch.

"Okay Akina, I want you to enter the wood and search for a flower called The Summer Orchid. It contains a spice in it's petals that when finely ground, can be used to make the most delicious plum pudding. The cook wants to use it for the buffet." The girl's delicately pointed ears eagerly caught Arya's every word.

Arya pulled a farth from her pack that she had made that very morning and handed it to Violet," This is what one looks like. When you find one the flower don't take the whole thing. Just carefully pluck off the petals so that they will grow back. Put the petals in the pouch and bring me the petals when you are done. I will be meditating by the pond."

The girl had been listening to Arya intently, her bright chocolate eyes never leaving her face," Yes, Master Arya."

"Don't take too long Akina," Arya said with a smile as the girl ran into the wood with her jet-black hair streaming behind her. Arya's shone with pride as she as she watched the steadily fading figure of her pupil. She slowly walked to the pond and sat down gratefully on the soft, summer grass. Her usual slightly tensed body began to relax as she fell into meditation.

Sorry the first chapter is so short. I'm just trying to get the story going. The next chapter will be more exciting too.

Who will Eragon take to the ball? Why does Arya have a pupil? Review and you will find out! Hope you liked it!

-Saphira's Charm (I know that a ball is a little corny, but oh welll.)