Hey everyone, Chapter 7 time. Enjoy.

Unlike in Christopher Paolini's books, Eragon actually acts like a teenager in this chapter. So get ready for some… angst is it called?


Key:

Italics= Thought/Spoken through the thoughts

Bold= Authors Note

"Italics"= Thought and Spoken Simultaneously

This Chapter was last edited on: Sunday May 27th, 2012 RW

(RW= Rewrite / ED= Edit, Addition of Material, etc. / FD= Final Draft / fD= First Draft)

Have a nice time reading.

Inheritance Cycle Book 4

End

Chapter 7: Aftermath


Eragon and Thorn stood together side by side for minutes that seemed like hours, each trapped in their own thoughts and musings.

Eragon heard the sound of wings in the distance, and turned to see Saphira's blue form emerging from over the trees.

I am here little one. She said to him.

I can see that… Have you given any thought as to what they're going to try and do to them? Eragon asked.

She touched down on the ground. Arya and another elf Eragon did not recognize jumped down from Saphira's saddle. They thumped the ground with purpose, and the feelings of anger and sadness permeated the very air. They drew their swords and approached Eragon.

Yes… I have. They just lost their queen; they are not in the most objective mood at the moment. Saphira said. They may try to kill them; you're going to have to protect them if that happens. Whether… whether I like it or not, Thorn may be the last hope for my race… we can't let him or Murtagh fall.

Eragon swung his eyes slowly off of Saphira and then saw Arya going towards Murtagh's unconscious body. Her sword was drawn and he could see bloodthirst in her eyes. He didn't need to sense her with his mind to figure out her intentions. His eyes widened and he grasped his sword tighter in his right hand.

Arya increased her pace and starting screaming and crying as she raised her sword above her head. The elf behind her tried to grab her around the waist and stop her, but Arya swung her elbow back and hit him in the face. He fell backwards onto the ground.

Eragon sprinted across the grassy ground between him and Murtagh's helpless form. She arrived next to Murtagh and raised her sword, ready to plunge it into him.

Arya waited a moment, and then did so. But Eragon just managed to come up and slash the sword at hers, sending it off course so that it sank into the ground. It pained him to have to attack her like that, but he knew that if Murtagh died, it would not end well with Thorn.

Suddenly, Thorn roared and stepped towards Arya and Eragon. The other elf got to his feet and pointed his sword in his direction. Arya pulled her sword out of the ground.

"Arya, stop it!" Eragon said.

"No!" She screamed. "He killed my mother! I'll kill him!"

Eragon was taken aback, he had never seen her so angry and emotional before. He hadn't seen any elf show this much emotion before for that matter. She tried to plunge her sword into Murtagh again, again Eragon batted it aside. Thorn roared and took another step.

"Stop where you are Thorn! I'll handle this!" Eragon shouted at him. "Arya! Enough!"

"Nothing will ever be enough to make up for what he's done!" Arya said. She attempted to attack Murtagh again. Eragon hit the sword from the bottom, sending her hand into the air, and then he dropped his sword and grabbed her wrists, trying not to hurt her as she struggled against his grip crying. "Let… me… go!"

"You're not in the best mood to make judgments right now, you need to calm down!" Eragon yelled. She looked around in a panicked fashion, and then she stopped struggling and released her grip on her sword, letting it fall onto the ground. He let her wrists go and she hugged him, pressing her face into his shoulder and continuing to cry.

"I'm… I'm so sorry Eragon." She said. He hugged her back and stroked her hair.

"It's alright…" Eragon said. Saphira looked at him and raised her right eye. Eragon shrugged, and then turned his eyesight towards the other elf, who was still holding his sword high at Thorn, who was crouching silently nearby, glaring at Arya from a distance. "Don't worry about it; he's sworn oaths in the Ancient Language to listen to what I say. You don't need the sword."

The elf sheathed his sword and looked at Arya. He scowled at her behavior. Eragon grimaced at the elves apparent dislike of Arya's show of feelings. Eragon was sure he had probably been letting off a few tears back in the clearing when Islanzadi died, just as many of the other elves had been, but he made no antagonizing comment and instead focused on Arya.

She slowly released Eragon from their embrace, and her cries slowed and fell silent even as tears continued falling from her distraught eyes. Arya wiped her hand across her eyes.

"I… I'm sorry. That… that was…" Arya said.

"Don't worry about it. Are you going to be okay?" Eragon asked.

"I'll… I'll be fine."

Eragon began to turn around, but when he saw her picking up her sword from the ground, he stopped and looked at her.

Without looking at him, Arya said, "I'm not going to kill him Eragon… I've let my emotions cloud my judgment to much already. I… I need to be objective."

She shakily sheathed her sword. Eragon nodded, trusting her. He looked over towards Thorn.

Are you going to be alright as well? He asked.

I will be fine… but I will continue to watch her. Thorn said. He was to, not taking his eyes off of Arya as she stepped away from Murtagh and towards Saphira.

She won't do anything. Eragon said.

I'm not so sure about that Eragon. Saphira said. She has really unstable feelings right now.

She is not exactly hiding them well. Thorn replied.

All of the elves have unstable feelings right now. But Arya told me she wouldn't kill him. She won't. Eragon told them.

If you trust her, Rider Eragon, then I do as well. Thorn said.

If you are sure, then I trust you. Saphira said. Arya didn't tell you, but we have a few more elves making their way here through the woods. Once they get here, we can escort them back to the campsite. The Counsel is making their way from Elesmera now as fast as they can to judge them and place upon them a sentence for their crimes.

That is preferable… my actions need to be judged. Thorn said remorsefully.

As they should, you've given our race a very poor name. You are a beast, not a dragon. Saphira said scornfully. Thorn lowered his head.

I know. He replied, and he turned his head to gaze at the mountain above. Saphira seemed taken aback by his lack of a rebuke, but she remained silent.

I'm guessing that means we'll be staying a few additional days. Eragon said to Saphira.

Indeed… but that is no longer an issue with Murtagh and Thorn captured. Saphira replied.

We should get this news to Nasuada as soon as possible. It will help her relax, and it should be a morale boost for the Varden.

Indeed it will be. But… what about them…? Saphira asked, referring to Murtagh and Thorn.

What about them? Eragon asked.

If they are judged, and sentenced to death, what will we do? Saphira asked. Eragon didn't answer for a long while.

I don't think they would do that. They know what's at stake. Eragon replied.

Their judgment is clouded.

They're still elves. I think we can still trust them to remain objective regardless.

I'm not so sure about that Eragon. What if we're wrong?

We won't be.

But what if we are?

Then we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. We just can't do anything… hasty.

They both started walking towards where Arya was sitting and waiting by the treeline. The other elf was not far away, standing on top of a rock and looking about the surroundings.

Even if they are let allowed to live, they obviously won't allow them to roam free. Saphira said.

They've committed terrible crimes, they'll probably be imprisoned. Eragon replied.

That's the problem Eragon. If Thorn is going to be… useful… they can't be stashed away where no one can find them… where me and Thorn… can't erm…

Eragon blushed at her insinuation. He also for some odd reason felt anger at Thorn, but he kept it well hidden.

We'll have to try and get them released once the wars over and Galbatorix's mind control is broken… Eragon replied.

What about the Dwarves? They all want Murtagh dead, and they're nowhere near as objective as the elves are. Saphira replied.

Orik will listen to me about that little issue.

Are you entirely sure about that?

No, but do we have any choice?

I suppose we don't. Saphira looked towards a spot of the treeline and her ears perked up.

What is it? Eragon asked.

They have arrived. She answered.

Indeed they had, nearly 20 elves stepped out of the trees. Some had short swords and some had bows and arrows, which were pointed at Thorn the second they stepped into the clearing. He had to know they were there, but he did not turn to look.

Eragon turned and walked towards them as they walked towards him. A leader stepped from the group and walked ahead of the others. Him and Eragon greeted each other, and then proceeded to conversation.

"It pleases me to see you alive Rider Eragon." The Leader said. "My name is Randall."

"Nice to meet you." Eragon replied.

"However, it displeases me that they…" Randall said, pointing towards Murtagh and then Thorn. "…still are."

"We can speak about this later. In the meantime, let's just get them back to camp." Eragon said. "Tell your compatriots to lower their weapons, Thorn has sworn to follow my instructions and not attack in the Ancient Language, they're unnecessary."

"As you wish." He replied nodding. He signaled the men and women behind him to lower their weapons, and they did.

Eragon walked over to Murtagh and lifted him over his shoulder. He walked towards Thorn and climbed up into his saddle. He tied Murtagh to Thorn's back and jumped off.

Follow me, and keep quiet. Eragon told him.

As you wish. He replied. Arya and Saphira stood on either side of him as he began to walk towards the elven group of soldiers. They quickly formed a circle around the dragons and Eragon and Arya as they proceeded into the forest.

As they walked, Arya spoke.

"Eragon…"

"I said not to worry about it Arya. I knew you were angry and confused." Eragon whispered.

"Still, that's not the way an Elf should act." Arya replied in a whisper as well.

"Who says that? Them? The rest of your nation?" Eragon asked. "Maybe you should stop thinking about what they want and expect, and thinking about how you feel, and how you want to do things."

"This is about more than just me trying to kill Murtagh isn't it…?" Arya asked.

"What if it is?"

She didn't answer.

"Either way, you still shouldn't have had to stop me, I should've exercised restraint." She said.

"Restraint isn't possible when it comes to the death of loved ones." Eragon said. "I know that first hand."

They walked in silence for a while. Maneuvering through the rather thick forest with the best of their ability alongside the other elves, Saphira, and Thorn.

"Did you ever think that maybe how the elves act… how their severe control over their emotions and image… could've been part of the reason why the elves weren't able to stop Galbatorix?" Eragon asked.

"Many times." Arya answered without hesitation. "Especially after living among your people for so long."

That had not been the answer Eragon had expected.

"I don't think the elves would've survived what your people have been through… the hardships and fights for survival…" Arya said. "Here we are, cooped up and protected within this forest while your people are slaughtered and hunted and oppressed with no one to turn to and no place where they can be protected for long."

"But your people are strong." Eragon replied.

"Yes, we are. But that's not enough. Your people have a far greater will to survive… a far greater will for innovation and science and advancement… a far greater will to love. While we sit here and are protected by our forest, you are all protected by your love. Your love for each other and love for your land and your people." Arya said. "Elves love of course… but not to the extent that your people do, and not so openly. We would've given up hope long ago if we were in your position, and it would've lead to our deaths.

"Other Elves would never have understood this. I'm pretty sure I'm the only one with enough experience with your people to truly believe that."

"Thank you… the other Elves seem to just look down on us. But they don't have any clue what we have been through." Eragon said.

"You're one of the only people I can confide in Eragon. Really, you're the only one who understands my position… being in it yourself."

"What do you mean?" Eragon asked.

"Being parts of two people, but being alienated from both." She replied. "Although, you are indeed a bit more alienated then I am. Being as that you look like both an elf and a human. My own people don't understand me, and your people don't trust me."

"I see what you mean. The Elves don't understand me either, and my appearance sets me apart from my own race."

"It's a difficult position." Arya said. They then fell silent and continued their journey. Almost a half hour passed before Arya chose to speak again. "Eragon…"

"What is it?" Eragon asked as a branch cracked underfoot.

"The past few days… I've… I've been denying my own feelings… I think, my mother dying… it… it gives me a new perspective on things." Arya said.

Eragon glanced around.

"I'm sorry Arya, I know… I know you're trying to say something. But this isn't the best place." He said, referring to the elves around them.

"Of… of course." She said. They kept moving forward.

A few more minutes past, and then Eragon felt Saphira's mind becoming more fraught with uncertainty and the elves around them increasing in tension.

It seems that the air around these parts doesn't just open your mind, but it amplifies your emotions. Eragon said.

It took a while for the feeling to fade off when we left as well. Maybe that's why Arya got so emotional and tried to kill Murtagh. Saphira replied.

Well, the fact that it's starting to affect everyone must mean we're getting close. Eragon said.

Eragon… before you go and speak with Arya, I'm pretty sure I can assume what happened between you two in the forest a few days ago. Saphira began.

Saphira… you don't need to protect me, I can handle myself.

I… I know that. But… I don't want you to see you get your heart broken again partner-of-my-heart… It hurts me just as much as it does you.

So, what, this is about you now? Eragon replied angrily.

You know I did not mean that! Saphira said. Wait a second, I thought you weren't affected by it… but your emotions are growing just like the rest of them.

Stop trying to change the subject! He replied.

So it must be affecting you because of your intense emotional state… She said. But you're right; we were talking about something else. Just like I said, you know I did not mean it like that!

I… I know. I'm sorry, I couldn't control myself. Eragon said.

I just want you to be careful Eragon… she got close to you and broke your heart once before. She replied.

I… I know. I'm ready for it this time.

I hope so.

Things fell silent and Eragon started to feel other consciousness's on the edge of his senses. They didn't feel panicky anymore or in disarray. They felt sad, and mournful. He couldn't resist the feelings, and his own memory of his failure to protect Islanzadi came to him. A tear sprouted from his eyes and descended the side of his face.

Arya grabbed his shoulder; he looked at her and could see that she felt as he did.

"It wasn't your fault Eragon." She said.

"I know." He replied. He put his arm over her shoulder and she put hers around his waist, and they walked together through the last stretch of woods. They emerged soon after into the graveyard of the Rider Leaders.

Elves were gathered around the clearing in silence. Many drew their swords as they saw Thorn enter the clearing. Eragon raised his hand to stop them, many stopped mid-draw.

"He is not a danger to us." He said. "The weapons are not necessary."

They sheathed their weapons and nodded at him. They approached Glaedr and Oromis's grave, which was still uncovered. The elves that had escorted them back slowly dissipated into the surrounding crowd.

Thorn drew glares from all around, but none made moves to attack or seize revenge. In fact, they seemed sad for the dragon under their anger. He knew the elves respected the dragons beyond anything, and even a fallen one such as him deserved respect.

Eragon was glad to see that Islanzadi had been taken down. He could see a blanket with golden lining and silver designs forming a dragon wrapped around what Eragon assumed was Islanzadi's body. Several elves were gathered around it as Eragon approached. They gave him room.

He kneeled down and uncovered her face with Arya beside him. Her stare could see everything, but nothing… looking unblinkingly past them into the heavens. Arya started sobbing, and Eragon pulled her closer.

"Maybe it isn't my fault that you're dead…" Eragon said. "…but regardless. You were a good leader, and I swear on my Uncle's grave… I swear on it… that I will avenge you."

He repeated the line in the Ancient Language.

"Thank you Eragon…" Arya said.

He remained silent, and he turned around and stood. He walked through a small crowd of elves that had gathered and he stepped up onto the platform where Islanzadi had been giving her speech. He walked to the center and turned towards the crowd. They stood as the majority of chairs had been incinerated. Eragon began speaking.

"Look, I've never been much of one for words… but I wanted to tell you all that her death is no excuse to falter in our efforts against Galbatorix. If anything, that would be disrespecting her memory. While this was originally a funeral for Oromis and Glaedr… of two riders far greater then I… it is now her funeral as well… for to hesitate in our fight would be disrespecting her memory.

"It's our job to honor that memory, to not back down in the face of great adversity. Today was a defeat, but tomorrow will be a victory because we will make it one… and every one after that. We will not stop until your queen and my friend, even if we never got to get that close I consider her such, is avenged… not until my blade is sunk deep in to Galbatorix's heart and the dead of Alagaesia are avenged.

"Because no matter who that encompasses, from the poor to the rich, the disrespected to the popular, the commoner to the royalty, we owe them all that much.

"So, in honor of the deaths of these great people, we will fight… and we will not fail! Let this be the final day of hesitation! Let this be the final day of Galbatorix's rule over our hearts!"

Saphira roared and let loose a torrent of fire into the air, and the elves even not being a celebratory bunch, cheered for him and raised their swords high in respect for him.

They were good words little one… Saphira said.

Thanks. Eragon replied as he stepped off the stage. Arya returned to his side and smiled at him.

"Those were good words Eragon." She said.

"Thank you." He said they remained silent for a few moments. "I'm sorry to say this Arya, but what I said was true. We don't have the time to honor your mother as she should be honored. We have to take this fight to Galbatorix."

"I know Eragon. Others will take her to be buried in Elesmera next to our leaders of the past." Arya said. "It is our job and our responsibility to our land to save Alagaesia from his evil, whatever the personal cost may be."

Eragon nodded.

"I know you wanted to tell me something earlier, but it's going to have to wait. We have to find some place to imprison Murtagh and Thorn. There's only one place I can think of secure enough for that, and that's Farthen Dur, but there is no way we're getting there from here, and no way to get them back once the Council arrives." Eragon said.

"On the contrary…" Arya said.

"Hm?" Eragon wondered.

"There are many elves here, one transporting an object of the size of Saphira's egg is very tiring, yes, but with the assistance of energy from them, I should be able to teleport them to Farthen Dur… There is a special addition to the spell that allows the item, or living beings in this case, to be recalled when ready."

"Well, we would have to consult with Orik first. But it's as good a plan as any."

"One thing Eragon, wouldn't it be best to leave Thorn here?" Arya asked. "You said he has sworn oaths to you in the Ancient Language. If so, then there is no point in wasting the energy to send him…"

"No, we will send him. Murtagh is far less of a danger then. Thorn's consciousness and presence will keep him from falling further down the dark road he has taken." Eragon replied.

"If you think that is best Eragon-Vor. I will go gather the energy I will need to cast the spell, could I borrow the Belt of Beloth the Wise?" Arya asked.

"Sure." He replied. He took the belt off of his waist and handed it to Arya. "I promise you, we will talk once Murtagh and Thorn are gone."

She nodded and left. Eragon turned and went to Thorn.

The tree-hugger woman… Thorn said as Eragon looked up at him.

"What about her?" Eragon asked out loud. He went to Thorn's side and started to climb onto his back.

Is she your mate Rider Eragon? Thorn asked.

Eragon blushed.

"No, no she isn't." He replied reaching his saddle and climbing up behind Murtagh.

But you want her to be?

"Yes… but she thinks the difference in our age is too great a barrier to overcome."

What a poor reason to deny ones feelings… she is lucky to have so many options for mates. I only have one. Thorn said glancing over at Saphira, who was walking with Arya around the clearing gathering energy for the belt.

Eragon dug into Murtagh's pockets.

"Keep your eyes off of her…" Eragon whispered to himself.

I heard that… you're sitting on my back remember? Thorn said. Eragon blushed thoroughly.

"I don't know what you're talking about…" Eragon replied as he checked another one of Murtagh's pockets. He seemed to have many of them throughout his clothing.

Are you… jealous Rider Eragon? Thorn asked inquisitively.

"What… what are you talking about? I love Arya! She's my partner, my dragon… I have every right to defend her against the likes of you." Eragon said defensively.

Thorn made the deeper throat laughing that Saphira usually made. This made Eragon blush even more deeply and continue to dig through the pockets of Murtagh's clothing.

"Where… are… they?" Eragon whispered to himself.

Do you honestly think he would hide them in his pockets? Thorn asked.

"Where else would he put them?"

They are on a necklace around his neck.

Eragon pulled down Murtagh's shirt, and sure enough, a bunch of glowing gems of multiple colors were hanging off of a cord around Murtagh's neck. There were13 of them, but there lights were far dimmer then even Glaedr's were.

Rider Eragon… Thorn said.

"What is it?" Eragon asked as he untied the cord and lifted it off of Murtagh's neck.

Please, treat them with respect and care… Thorn said. They have been damaged mentally because of how Galbatorix broke them… Drained because of how he took their power from them… Then he forced the partner-of-my-heart to commit the same injustices, I will always despise that evil two-leg for what he has done…

Eragon put his hand on the side of Thorn's neck as he climbed down from his back.

"Do not worry, I will treat them as such, and protect them from ever again feeling the touch of Galbatorix's hand or mind." Eragon replied.

Thorn nodded his head up and down, and sent gratitude to Eragon's mind. He nodded as well, and then left Thorn's side and walked towards Saphira and Arya. They turned their heads towards him as he approached.

Why did you block me out when you were speaking to the Red-Dragon Thorn? Saphira asked.

"Um… it was men stuff…" Eragon replied blushing and knowing that Arya had heard the question. Arya raised her eyebrow at Eragon as did Saphira. "Anyways, how's progress on the belt?"

"I almost have all that I need. You should go back to the camp outside of Du Weldenvarden and use a scrying mirror to contact King Orik." Arya said.

"I'll go and do that; we can meet back at the encampment when you're ready. I'll take Thorn with me. You can stay with Arya if you like Saphira." Eragon replied.

Yes, I will stay and we can talk about "woman stuff". Saphira replied jokingly. She then nuzzled Eragon with her snout. He giggled. Now stop giggling like a little girl and go.

He blushed and complied; he went back over to Thorn and beckoned him to follow as they journeyed back out of the forest.

I'm not so sure that what you displayed earlier was not jealousy Rider Eragon. Thorn said with a toothy grin.

"It wasn't jealousy! I already told you, I love Arya!" He replied.

Then why are you being so defensive? Thorn asked.

Eragon had no response for this.

"Fine, maybe it was jealousy. It's not… it's not like I haven't thought about it you know. Saphira is everything to me, the one living thing in this world I'm closer to then anybody…" He replied. "But… even you know that it can't be. We're not the same species… it would be wrong…"

But you do have feelings for her? Thorn asked.

Eragon stopped at sat on a rock. Thorn laid down with his forelegs crossed in front of him. Eragon looked at the ground for a little bit, and then looked at Thorn.

"Maybe… maybe I do, maybe I do not, like I said… it can't be! Besides, I have feelings for Arya to! It's… all so confusing!" Eragon said burying his face in his hands.

Your situation is an odd one, stuck between two loves that both would not want you… Thorn said. Eragon jumped to his feet.

"That isn't true! Arya does want me, we've kissed and she's even confessed her feelings for me, but she doesn't think that it would be right!" Eragon said.

I see, perhaps your chances are not so dim my friend. Thorn said. He stood. We should continue.

"Thorn… thanks for being there to talk to. There are just things that are rather difficult to talk to her about, you're more accepting, and you force me to reveal things to myself." Eragon said. "It makes me a better person to be more aware of who I am and what I care about."

It was my pleasure Rider Eragon.

They continued their journey through the forest for a while before Thorn spoke again.

Tell me Rider Eragon, why have you been so willing to confide in me? I've… been, honestly, the bane of your existence for a few months now. Thorn said.

"I… I don't know. I guess I just feel you're trustworthy. My gut feelings are usually right." Eragon replied.

Thank you for trusting me.

Eragon didn't respond and they proceeded on and into the camp. He went to his own tent and he removed a scrying mirror from his bags. He said the words to link him to the scrying mirror in Tronjheim, which had been sent there by the elves a short while ago at Eragon's behest.

A fog covered the mirror for a moment, and then the face of a dwarf emerged. He was snoring with his head laid sideways against the table. Eragon narrowed his eyes in distaste.

"Wake up." He said. The Dwarf did not respond. He said it again, to no avail.

I suggest a shout Rider Eragon. Thorn said.

"Wake up!" He shouted into the mirror. The dwarf jumped from his position and fell over backwards. There was a slam as Eragon assumed he hit the floor. There was a sound of scrabbling and curses as Eragon assumed he stood back up. Suddenly, there was movement of his vision as he assumed the dwarf picked up the mirror.

"Oh, Argetlam, what makes you disturb my slumber." The Dwarf asked.

It is best the fact that I and Murtagh will be sent there be kept a secret as long as possible. Thorn said.

I agree. Eragon replied and then spoke again to the mirror. "That is none of your business; please take the mirror to Orik."

The Dwarf nodded and let the mirror drop to his side, Eragon could clearly hear the Dwarf insulting him under his breath in some of the few Dwarvish words he understood. A small while passed, and the Eragon saw the doors to the Dwarven throne room ahead through the mirror. The guards made to stop the Dwarf carrying the mirror.

There was a small exchange in Dwarvish, and then they opened the doors and let him through. Eragon saw Orik in the distance looking rather bored as he spoke in Dwarvish to another Dwarf in front of his throne. He looked up when he saw the other Dwarf enter.

They exchanged words in Dwarvish and Orik started grinning as they spoke after Eragon heard his name among the gibberish. He looked at the other Dwarf he had been speaking to and waved him off. The Dwarf bowed and left and the Dwarf carrying the mirror handed it to Orik, who waved the Dwarf off. Eragon heard footsteps fading away and the door slamming.

"Eragon! You have no idea how glad I am that you contacted me, finally an excuse to get out of this political drivel." Orik said. Eragon laughed and grinned.

"I'm glad I could be of assistance. Being King not as glamorous as you thought it would be?" He replied.

"No, no it is not. But, I assume you called me for a reason hm?" Orik asked getting serious.

"I did, but you aren't going to like what I'm about to suggest. There is some good news though…" Eragon said.

"I'm ready, go for it." Orik said.

"Is there anyone else in there with you?"

"Yes, just my guards."

"I suggest you tell them to leave, what I'm about to tell you wouldn't be safe within the wrong mind."

Orik nodded and spoke in Dwarvish to what Eragon assumed was his guards. There were distant responses and then a group of leaving footsteps and the slam of a door.

"It's alright, they're gone." Orik said. "Now what is it?"

"First the good news, we've captured Murtagh and Thorn." Eragon said. Orik smiled in an evil fashion.

"That is indeed good news, when is the execution? I would like to swing the axe on that rat bastards head myself." Orik said. Eragon sighed.

"It's never Orik. We need Thorn; he's the only hope for the entire race of the Dragons at the moment." Eragon said. "Even if he wasn't, he is truly remorseful for what he was forced to do."

"I speak not of him, but of that murderer who rides him. He's the one who killed Hrothgar, not his dragon." Orik said with venom.

"We can't kill him either; Thorn wouldn't exactly be cooperative if we did."

"Barzul!" Orik swore, slamming his fist down on the arm of his throne. "He deserves to die for what he's done!"

"He was under Galbatorix's control Orik! It… it wasn't his fault." Eragon replied.

"No offense my foster brother, but you're hiding the fact that it was he who decided to do it. Galbatorix did not order him to go straight to the battlefield and kill my foster father in the most cowardly way possible!"

"I know… His time with Galbatorix, it changed him. The torture and pain he must have gone through is unimaginable…"

"I know he was your friend Eragon, but King Hrothgar deserve vengeance. He deserved an honorable death; instead he was struck down with magic!"

"I know." Eragon repeated. "But you know as well as I do that there is nothing more we can do."

"I'm sorry… my behavior was uncalled for. You deserve better treatment from your foster brother, hm? But… but you said you had some bad news?" Orik asked.

"Before we managed to capture them, Islanzadi was killed with some kind of magic arrow shot by Murtagh. It had the ability to smash straight through magical wards like they were nothing!" Eragon said.

"That is indeed poor news… the elves must understand how we felt after King Hrothgar died at his hand now." Orik said.

"They are showing more emotion about it than I've ever seen from any elf, Arya tried to kill Murtagh when he was down on the ground unconscious. She was so… angry." Eragon replied.

"I wish I could see this, those elves with their lack of emotion are so distasteful."

"Try not to say that in front of any elves, okay?"

Orik nodded.

"Anyways, there's something I need of you. Remember that suggestion I said you wouldn't like?" Eragon asked.

"Yes, of course. I'm prepared for it." Orik replied.

"I honestly don't think you are, but anyways… I need you and the Dwarves to hold Murtagh and Thorn prisoner in Farthen Dur for a few days."

"I indeed do not like it." Orik said.

"They committed a crime against the elves-"

"They committed a crime against the Dwarves!"

"I know, but we need some place to hold him and Murtagh for a few days until the council gets here to judge them. It's their land; I can't deny them the right."

"What about us? We don't get to judge them for what they've done to us?"

"Look, Orik, I'm asking you as a friend and as a foster brother… please do this for me."

Orik paused and pondered this for a while.

"You… put me in a rather difficult position." Orik said. "But… my friendship with you is very important to me. As much as I don't like it, I will do it."

"Thank you Orik… you will need to keep this secret. If it gets out, half of the mountain will be trying to kill them. You need to only tell this to people you trust, a lot." Eragon said.

Orik nodded.

"I will keep them safe on my title as King of the Dwarves." He said putting his fist to his chest. "But how will you get them here and back?"

"Arya is going to teleport them to you, and then recall them when she's ready." Eragon said.

"My, she is a crafty one. Put them under Isidar Mithrim. I'll clear out the place now; there are plenty of secret tunnels stretching from there so we'll be able to imprison them quietly."

"Okay Orik, thank you for everything." Eragon said.

"Even though I'm going to regret it… Goodbye my friend." Orik said, and his image faded.

Eragon put the mirror back in his bags and stepped outside.

"Looks like we're all good…" Eragon said. "I'm sorry we have to do this."

We deserve any punishment we receive. Worry not about us, we will survive anything that is thrown at us. Thorn said.

"I just hope that once this is all over, you will have time to make up for all that you've done. Murtagh as well." Eragon said.

Thorn did not answer this, and followed Eragon as he returned to the forest to get Arya.


Hope you enjoyed, I'm not going to bother with Ref. Material for this chapter. I'm thinking of just adding Ref. Material on later when I actually have gotten through to the end of this story. I have it all plotted out in my head, but actually writing it out takes a while.