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Even In Death

By: Anda Faith

Surda emerged over the horizon and Eragon sent a mental message to the DuVangr Gata, announcing is arrival and that he had brought a couple of 'friends' to serve the Varden. He could sense many minds within the city and then focused on where they were landing.

Deeming it safe, the two Dragons landed on the roof of King Orrin's castle. "Here we are," Eragon said as he dismounted, stretching his aching limbs before offering Malry his hand.

Opening her eyes, she looked around and smiled, taking his hand. "I guess that wasn't too bad. I prefer horses though," she said with a small laugh.

I almost lost the circulation in my spike! Saphira jested. Eragon grinned at the giant blue Dragon.

It was a little better than the trip with Roran, you have to admit.

Of course.

Valour jumped off Emril and landed next to him. The wind whipped through her tousled golden tresses, which made Eragon stare slightly at her beauty. He quelled the feeling and sighed. "How are you two? I almost lost you at the Jiet River."

Stretching out her legs, Valour let out a laugh. "Emril doesn't like to take directions from anyone other than me. He's a bit stubborn." She sent a piecing glare at the Dragon who feigned a look of innocence.

"Oh, my – ah – Eragon?" Nasuada poked her head through the trapdoor that led down into the castle, then climbed out. "Wow!" she cried out in surprise, clutching her chest. Arya followed her, staring intently at the green Dragon.

"Amazing…" the elf sighed with awe in her voice. The Dragon neared her and she reached out to touch it gently. "I can't believe it hatched."

Valour and Malry bowed in front of Nasuada just as Eragon did. "My lady, these two wish to join you in the fight against Galbatorix. Valour was trained well, I guess, from what I have evaluated," he told the leader of the Varden.

Nasuada's gaze focused on the two girls. Her brown eyes searched out Malry, a grin playing about her face. "Ah, yes, well I believe that we have a Dragon Slayer here, is that right?" she asked questioningly as Malry stood.

"I just got off a Dragon and I didn't kill it. I'm after one Dragon and that is Shruikan. I swear not to harm Saphira or Emril," Malry informed the Lady.

Nasuada nodded and turned to Valour, her grin faltering. "I know you from somewhere… Valour…" She seemed to be searching her mind for the answer when Arya drew her sword suddenly.

"Of course you know her, how could you not?" the elf interrupted in a low growl. Eragon had never seen her so… violent looking before.

Nasuada's eyes wandered to the elf.

"She's Galbatorix's daughter…" Arya said, glaring daggers at the blonde-haired woman.