Chapter 3
Eragon
I almost run up the landing and fling open the door. Gertrude raises an eyebrow, but I don't care. A boy with brown hair and eyes and a tunic that bares a scar on his wrist stares back at me. I suddenly realise that this is going to be very difficult.
"Hi, what's your name? I haven't seen you here before," he comments.
"I've just arrived. Eragon, you need my help."
Suddenly the boy looks as tense as a cornered wolf.
"I know this sounds improbable, but I know what is going to happen. The Varden and you need my help."
"You know?"
"I know. And believe me, I don't mean you any harm, neither does anyone else know."
"How can I believe you? It is hard to know who to trust and who not to."
I nod. I expect that.
"Show me your right palm."
Eragon suddenly clenches his right hand into a fist.
"Now how could I know about your gedwëy ignaisia, your shining palm? No one knows, otherwise they'd be questions here there and everywhere. Do you believe me?"
"You might be working for the Empire." He's stubborn but cautious. I respect that.
"I know what is about to happen. I also know what has happened, although in less clarity. But, would I be right if I said that Saphira went flying one time and she caught an eagle?" Eragon gasped. "There is more. When she caught it, she also released it, commenting that no hunter of the skies should end their days as prey. Better die on the wing then be pinned to the ground. Exact words, if I'm not mistaken."
Eragon reluctantly nods. "You are right. How do you know?"
I hesitate. Eragon wouldn't believe me if I told him.
"I can't tell you," I whisper. "But Eragon, I'm so sorry for your loss."
Eragon gives a harsh laugh, underlying with pain. "Uncle Garrow's not dead yet," he says.
"Eragon," I whisper. "Unless I help you, Brom will suffer the same fate as Garrow will tonight. I don't want to make you suffer, but you need my help."
Eragon sits up on his bed. "Brom? What has Brom got to do with it?"
Suddenly, I realise that I've said too much.
"Can you promise me that you won't tell anyone except Brom and Saphira what I know? I had to lie to everyone and I can't lie to you or Brom. And as for your questions, Brom play a major part of your life soon."
Eragon agrees tersely.