Dr. Edward Newman
July 23, 1224
Patient: Eragon Shadeslayer
Session 1
I have recently met a new patient who seems to be dealing with a vast array of psychological and emotional struggles. Our first session was today, and we mainly talked about his parents, a topic which has been torturing him for a while now. It went as follows:
"So, Eragon, what seems to be troubling you?"
"It's my father, doc. I'm an orphan, you know."
"Mmm hmm. Raised by a relative?"
"Yes, my uncle Garrow, until he was murdered."
"I see. And I assume you've found out who your biological father is, which is what is troubling you."
"Yes, doc. I found out a couple months ago, and the knowledge has been driving me insane."
"Would you like to tell me who it was?"
"Yes, doc. It was Morzan, first and last of the Thirteen Forsworn, who betrayed the Riders to Galbatorix, and ended an era of peace."
"Mmm hmm. And how does that make you feel?"
"(sniffling) Horrible, doc. My father murdered millions of people. He was less than human."
"I can see how that could be troubling."
"Yeah, it is. I mean, when I was a kid I would always pretend that maybe my father was someone of noble birth, you know, who went to parties with all the lords and ladies of the court, but geez. Never had I expected this…"
"Let's talk some more about your Uncle Garrow. Was he close to you?"
"Like a father, doc."
"Therein lies the solution to your problem. Morzan was your father in no more than blood, but your Uncle Garrow cared for you throughout your entire life. He is your father, not Morzan."
"Huh. I never thought of it that way. Gee, thanks doc!"
"No problem."
I think I've helped him. He seems nice enough, but I think I'll be seeing more of him soon.