I don't own the Inheritance Cycle or Twilight Saga.
Chapter Seven: Meet Up
(Thorn Point of View)
The red dragon blinked the sleep out of his eyes as he waited for the golden couple to return. It was early in the morning, and he was well aware that Glaedr liked to fly with his rider before they did any duties.
Currently, they were arranging things so that they could do a foot search for Murtagh. However, that didn't appear to be needful anymore. Or at least it wouldn't be.
Thorn didn't know how he felt about the message. He supposed, only a meet up and an explanation would reassure him one way or another. Either these beings had indeed harmed his rider, or it was all a misunderstanding. Regardless, he knew his rider was in danger.
Going out to the cliffs, Thorn stared up at the sky. A short time later, he saw the golden pair returning. Oromis had a grim and stressed look on his face. It was unusual, as Oromis usually appeared calm. When he saw Thorn waiting for them, he greeted the red dragon. "Is everything all right, Thorn?"
Thorn hesitated. Then, 'I need to talk to the both of you.'
Glaedr and Oromis looked like they were exchanging a conversation, and when Oromis hopped off, Thorn was led to his quarters. Glaedr was behind him, and Oromis put the tack on the wall.
Finally, turning back, Oromis waited patiently while Glaedr asked, 'Is there something on your mind?'
Now he wasn't so sure anymore. Instead, he opened his mind and showed his dream.
Oromis appeared puzzled and disturbed, concerned even. He and Glaedr looked like they were exchanging a conversation. Then, Oromis turned to Thorn, insecurity in his features. "Is this the only communication you've had?"
Thorn grunted his affirmation. 'I wasn't told more than that.'
It looked like Oromis and Glaedr were in deliberation again. Oromis paced back and forth, not too sure, it seemed, with the decision to be made, whatever that decision was.
At that moment, Glaedr voiced aloud for all to hear, 'It beats searching on foot. If we can get a location, at least we can see them properly.'
"Yes," Oromis acknowledged, but still unsure. "But at the same time, this could be a trap. I'm still not sure what to believe."
'The only way to know for sure is to get answers,' Glaedr's deep voice rumbled to everyone.
Briefly considering, Oromis turned to Thorn, his eyes pained. "Please bring Brom in," and he turned back to Glaedr to converse.
Thorn stepped out, the door magically opened for him. He knew more than likely where to find his rider's step father. And sure enough, Brom was in the dining hall. He had a concerned look on his face, and as Thorn passed the rows of students, heading to the table, Saphira looked up. Dipping her head, Saphira greeted him, 'I hope that your flight has been well, Thorn.'
'Actually,' Thorn changed the conversation, not sure why they had assumed him to go on a flight. 'Oromis wants to meet with both of you.'
Immediately Saphira and Brom stood up. "Thank you," Brom told Thorn in a hurried demeanor, and Saphira nodded to him.
At this, Thorn went to the cliffs, if only to clear his head with a good fly.
(Oromis Point of View)
Oromis was pacing back and forth in his quarters, waiting for Brom and Saphira to arrive. The new developments were disturbing. Something had changed between the time that Murtagh had last contacted them and when he contacted Thorn. His behavioral change concerned him.
'Peace,' Glaedr told his rider. 'This might provide the answers we need yet.'
'And yet, can we expect them to be honest?' Oromis was concerned. When Glaedr hesitated, Oromis replied, 'That's what I thought.'
'We have more to gain than to loose by having this confrontation,' Glaedr cautioned him. 'Right now we have nothing. With this, we have a chance to see Saphira, Eragon, and Murtagh properly. We can gauge their condition then. Eragon was implied to have been in on this. He wants to see us. That is the only explanation. Weren't you the one who asked to talk to Eragon and Saphira?'
As Oromis considered this, he realized that he might have no choice. Glaedr was right. It beat searching on foot when they might find nothing. He could only hope that his former students were there, along with Murtagh.
Making up his mind, he knew that Brom would be disappointed, but would understand once told. And, right on cue, Glaedr agreeing to the decision, Brom and Saphira knocked on his door.
'Come in,' Glaedr announced, and Brom and Saphira appeared.
Seeing his former teacher and the leader of the riders in a state of dilemma, Brom looked concerned. "Is everything all right?" he asked instead of giving the usual elvish greeting.
It was enough to take him out of his thoughts. "No," he admitted, and proceeded to show Brom and Saphia what Thorn had shown him.
Brom was immediately stunned. 'They want to meet?' Saphira asked, as he rider was too stunned to talk.
"We may have no choice," Oromis murmured, going to sit on a stool by his desk. One hand on his head, the elbow resting on the desk, Oromis said, "This is the only way we may find them. A foot search in a large area may show nothing. I see no choice but to give my agreement."
At this point, Brom seemed to be recovered some. "Are you sure it's safe?" he asked. "You were the one that was told the stories by King Orik."
"What choice do I have?" Oromis looked at his student, at a loss and undecided for once. He shook his head in uncertainty. "They've cornered us, Brom. They have answers we need. They know how the dead are coming back. We can't risk Galbatorix, or forbid it, one of the Forsworn coming back."
In agreement, worry on his face, Brom considered. "Do you want me to tell Thorn you're decision?"
Oromis nodded. "I fear, this is an uneasy alliance that is going to have lasting consequences, one way or another."
"I believe you're right," Brom murmured softly, concerned, while the dragons had their own conversation.
Brom nodded and then left. Saphira followed a short time later.
Turning to his dragon and fellow councilor, Oromis told Glaedr, 'I think I'd rather not have the students present, in case something happens.'
'Agreed,' Glaedr rumbled.
(Murtagh Point of View)
That night, his brother helped him as he contacted his dragon again. Once more, they were in the fields, and Thorn rejoiced when he saw him, both still amazed at how vibrant everything was.
Hugging Thorn, Thorn murmured, 'I missed you.'
"Me too," Murtagh was content. He pulled away, happier than he ever remembered being. Then he hesitated, feeling awkward, before asking, "What did they say?"
'Oromis is concerned,' Thorn was being careful, he could tell. 'But, he's agreed to their request. He'll meet.'
Nodded, somewhat relieved, Murtagh murmured softly, "I've got the location. You're going to have to head direct north of Du Weldenvarden. It's by a river that winds and turns. It will be about three days' journey dragon back for the northern most point of Du Weldenvarden. It's by some gorges."
'Do you know where this place is?' Thorn then quizzed.
Murtagh shook his head. "I've never been there. I've seen it in Eragon's mind, as he's been there before. He showed me before we contacted you. This is the closest they're willing to come to Alagaesia."
Though he seemed uncertain and apprehensive, Thorn nodded. 'When I wake, I'll tell them.' There was hesitation then. 'I'm worried about you.'
'I know,' Murtagh looked sad. He seemed more emotionally stable, and Murtagh felt better. But he knew that Thorn would think it was a trick. 'In all honesty, though, it's nice having Eragon and Saphira back.'
'I don't know,' Thorn was suspicious. 'When they're home safe, yes, but can you trust them in this state?' He was almost begging his rider at this point, and Murtagh knew what he wanted. He was wanting Murtagh to believe that they were brainwashed. In some ways, he could see why Thorn would believe this, even if it weren't true.
'I need to stay with them,' Murtagh reassured him. 'And no, they're not brainwashed. They're just... different now. Things are complicated.'
It didn't reassure Thorn. He could tell. But the dragon gave up. 'Oromis is looking forward to seeing you,' he told him.
'Yeah,' Murtagh replied, looking down. He didn't know how he felt about that. After all, he knew that the older rider was going to demand an explanation of him. He wasn't sure that he could withstand an interrogation, even if it was for his welfare. He didn't want to see the elf's concerned gaze.
As the dream began fading, Murtagh finished his message. 'They know it's going to take time for you and you're group to get there. It will take about a month for your travels. We'll meet you then.'
Thorn had a concerned look on his face again. 'It's a long time to wait for you.'
'I have a feeling we'll be contacting each other in dreams,' Murtagh smiled softly.
The dream faded. Murtagh woke up.
(Thorn Point of View)
He was exhausted when he woke up, though why he didn't know. The contact wasn't what he'd been expecting. But he knew he was going to have to tell Glaedr and Oromis anyways. It was exhausting, this whole ordeal.
Getting up, he located the room that Oromis stayed in. Strange to say, Oromis refused to take the room of the leader, even if it was his right. Instead, he was staying in one of the other rider's rooms.
'Glaedr?' Thorn asked after hesitating.
'Come in,' Glaedr invited.
Trotting in after the door magically opened, he saw Oromis at the desk. But Oromis was turned around, watching him. None the less, it was Glaedr who started the conversation. 'Is it done?'
Thorn showed the dream he'd just had.
'A month?' Oromis was concerned. It must have been some distance if that was how long it would take to reach the location. He could see the many emotions going across Oromis' face then. 'How far out are these beings?'
'It doesn't matter,' Glaedr was firm, his mind made up. 'It's the best circumstance we're going to get. They must be protective of wherever they live. You heard them. They won't come any closer to Alagaesia.'
'It's going to be a whole month!' Thorn then complained.
'Peace, hatchling,' Glaedr cautioned him. 'This isn't something you want to rush.'
"Glaedr is right," Oromis then spoke aloud, getting up. He began pacing. "At least it will give us time to plan, especially as to what to do if things go south. I know we won't have a fair chance, but if we can at least ask to speak with Eragon, Saphira, and Murtagh alone prior to meeting with them, then maybe we can talk some sense into them."
'What if they won't have it?' Glaedr was concerned.
This was the first time Thorn had ever seen fear on Oromis' face.
"Then we are without hope."
(Lord Davien Point of View)
He had regretted running that little errand for Murtagh. When Murtagh had asked for money, he thought it was the least he could do, considering he had betrayed him to Galbatorix at one point. He'd given in because of how terrified he was of the king.
But this fate was perhaps no different. Murtagh missing had made his heart clench. He hoped that his friend was all right. Murtagh hadn't exactly seemed stable on his visit.
He knew his friend had been through a lot. What was more, he'd heard how Murtagh had grown closer to his younger half brother. It made sense that Murtagh would go after him.
Murtagh and Davien had been the few nobles that had been allowed to keep their noble status and wealth after the war. When Murtagh had wandered after the war, he'd sometimes stopped at his mansion.
As he wandered through his mansion, going to his room, he was surprised at a very still figure that was in his bedroom. He froze. The voice spoke, and though it was dark due to nighttime, he was secured firmly to the place he was standing by the accented voice. "I'll never know how you little humans make due without electricity."
'Electe-what?' Lord Davien thought, still confused at the accent that he couldn't pin point. It wasn't an accent he'd heard before. The figure turned around casually, and only then did he notice an item of his clothing in his hands, one of Lord Davien's own cloaks.
In a moment, the figure, which was several feet away, was in front of him, and he trembled in fear. The figure was pale, had red eyes, had dark blonde hair, and was tall. Sneering, the figure asked, "Tell me, what kind of people don't lock their doors?" It was mocking, the way it was said.
"The kind that has servants," Lord Davien trembled.
"Ah," the figure, began, throwing the cloak away, using a mocking regretful tone. "Yes, about them. I'm sorry about all the dead servants you'll find. I was simply... too hungry." With that, the figure gave a wicked grin.
Even more fearful, Lord Davien stepped away. But when he turned around to run, the figure was in front of him once more, smirking. "Wh-who are you?" he asked this strange humanoid creature.
"Riley Biers," the figure said.
He didn't see it as the creature launched at him.
(Morzan Point of View)
Morzan and his dragon walked around the massive castle that belonged to him. To his surprise, it was well kept. No doubt his son had maintained it. But when he had showed up, it had caused a fright in the servants, so to speak. They'd all fled. Morzan was in no mood for cowards, so he let them. He and his dragon walked outside.
The sound of wings reached him, and he smiled. Kialandi was here. Formora was behind him.
Their dragons landed. Still, despite coming back, they didn't know the names of their dragons. But, there was something different as well. It was like the dragons were able to function once more.
A part of Morzan wondered if it would be worth it for his dragon to take a new name for fear that that horrid banishing of names spell might kick in again.
Formora looked around his estate in interest. No doubt, she was going to take hers back. All the Forsworn would. Kialandi on the other hand, headed right over. "Morzan," he said. None of the elvish Forsworn ever used the elvish greeting, completely abandoning what their race stood for. "It's rather... interesting... that you're estate is so well kept."
"Indeed," Morzan folded his arms, not willing to reveal that he had a son. Unfortunately, he knew it was going to come out sooner or later. But later was preferred.
Kialandi said no more on the subject. Instead, Formora brought up, "Where is Galbatorix?"
"I haven't located him," Morzan was firm. While he'd rather not have them here, at the same time, they knew they needed to work together. They couldn't afford to have a rift now, or they might all die. Again.
Morzan led them inside, and his dragon led their dragons over to the dragon hold. "We have much to discuss."
"And how long have you been back?" Kialandi inquired, looking around at the paintings. There was one of Selena and Morzan. Morzan paused when he came to her portrait. His eyes softened some. He missed her. Would she come back from the dead? He hoped so. He deeply regretted their last fight.
She'd accused him of not loving her, even though that wasn't the case. Though, with all the reflection he'd done in the underworld, he could see how that would be the case that she would think that. He'd taken her for granted, and never expressed his true feelings enough to her. And all his drunkenness had done little to help their relationship. His wife did have a point. And he would admit it freely now, he had a drinking problem.
He was full of regrets, including to his son Murtagh, whom he'd opened up with his own sword. Perhaps his son was never safe with him even though it had been his intention to protect Murtagh from being used by others.
Then, turning to his fellow rebel, he answered, "Not long. A few hours. And you?"
"A couple," the elf folded his arm. "And you?" he turned to Formora.
"Three hours about," the female elf had a bored tone. She turned to Morzan. "It appears no one else is back yet. If anyone can come back."
"You would think Galbatorix would be here by now," Kialandi hummed, almost in anticipation. "Shouldn't he sense us? After all, how many eldunari does he have? Unless your wards are really that powerful, Morzan?"
Morzan knew what he was implying. He was also fishing for answers. Why they thought he had answers, he didn't know. So, remembering that there was a portrait of his young son in the upcoming corridors, (though who knew what he looked like now as he'd probably grown), and knowing that he didn't want that out yet, he decided to lead them a different direction. "I have no idea why we haven't been contacted yet." His tone settled the matter.
They followed him, but weren't satisfied with his answers. Formora even grumbled, but he didn't care. That was the least of his concerns. He needed to get knowledge of what was happening in Alagaesia. So, leading them into his vast library he took a chair by the fire. Kialandi and Formora floated chairs to sit opposite of him. "Now what?" Kialadini asked.
Considering, Formora advised, "We still have our own estates that we need to check on. I don't know about you, but I'm wanting to check what is going on in Alageasia first. I want to see if I can contact Galbatorix first." She then looked directly at Morzan. "I find it interesting that your estate is still operating after your 'death.' Life in the afterlife was never interesting, was it? You were the most bored out of us there."
"Yes," Morzan tried to avoid the conversation. "It was." There she was, fishing for information. Goodness! Why did they think that he had more information than he did? "I suppose I will have to redo the wards around my estate." Though he doubted that comment would throw them off.
But before he could, there was chaos outside. Morzan stood up, but before he could head to the door, a timid servant opened the door, shaking. Evidently one of the servants that had fled had come back. When he spotted Morzan, he headed over, his frame shaking, and handed Morzan a note in his hand.
Morzan, impatient, snatched the note out of his hand. But, when he opened it, he nearly dropped the note in fear.
Morzan,
I have your son. If you want him alive, you will do as I say.
Meet me at a place I shall specify last minute.
If you don't, your son will die. You wouldn't want that, would you?
The note was unsigned, and Morzan didn't recognize the handwriting. Morzan was shaking. Someone knew. But, of course they would. Someone had to take care of the child after he died. His black hand and wife had disappeared, and Morzan had feared that Brom had killed her, especially after their last encounter. That had done everything to solidify in his mind that Brom had killed his wife, and that his son had been at risk from the blue rider.
And who knew how much time had passed. They didn't even know when they were.
Kialandi and Formora seemed interested, but the servant had fled shortly after giving him the note. "Something wrong?" Formora's musical voice was heard, interested.
Morzan brought himself out of his state. His son needed him. "Nothing you can do," Morzan was firm, tossing the note into the fire and ensuring that it burned. It was also time to reconnect with his son and try to establish better relations. Repairing his relationship with his wife and son were his top priority. He could only hope that Selena would come back so that he could repair their marriage.
Kialadi and Formora were watching him, not quite convinced. But then, Formora got up.
"I'm going to scry my estate."
(Murtagh Point of View)
He knew that Thorn wasn't satisfied with his answers, but he couldn't help it. It was the best he could do. The truth was a month was a long time. But, the vampires and wolves were already decided, and he knew even he wouldn't be able to convince Emilie to change everyone's mind, let alone hers.
Right now, he was walking side by side with the wolf. She had phased in front of him and was now turned back. He thought she was pretty as a wolf.
Briefly, he thought about Nasuada, but he realized it wouldn't work out with her anyways. No matter what, he was immortal, whether as a rider or as a vampire rider. And the truth was, he didn't know what he felt about her anymore. She had changed too much, and her magic agenda was turning into persecution. Already, she had uprisings on her hands even from magicians that had joined her group. (Then again they were forced to.) They were tired of her tight reign. Roran was also growing wary of her. Murtagh thought Roran would make a better ruler than her.
But Emilie, on the other hand, had no such prejudices. After all, what could magic do to her when it couldn't even function around her? That said, he still seemed to maintain his immortality, and Thorn could still fly, which was interesting.
Ever since her imprinting on him, he'd felt feelings start to develop for her. But, he was still in emotional confusion, not just from the imprinting but because of Nasuada, his past love. While he knew it was Emilie he wanted, at the same time, he couldn't help but realize that it would cause problems with Nasuada, especially if she should still have feelings for him.
Briefly, he was reminded of a conversation he'd had with Eragon before Eragon had disappeared, becoming a vampire. Eragon, when Murtagh had acted up, hitting one of the earls that was being rough with Nasuada at one of the banquets when they'd come to the dragon rider's hold, had been reprimanded. Then, Eragon, in his office, had advised Murtagh to find someone immortal to love. As he had put it, Nasuada was always going to be separated from him anyways, whether due to dying of old age or something else.
He brought himself out of his thoughts. He knew Thorn could feel the difference in him due to the imprinting. But... oh that's right. He should interact. It was a "date", or whatever it was she had called it. They didn't have that in Alagaesia.
Emilie put her brown hair behind her ears, matching his pace. "You nervous?" she asked.
Murtagh shrugged. They were still getting used to each other. "I'm not sure how I'm going to explain this all to Thorn."
"He has a right to know about the supernatural world since he's bonded to you," she pointed out.
"Actually," Murtagh hesitated, not sure of his request. "I think I'd rather have you break it to him. Or Eragon or Saphira."
"To avoid conflict," she seemed amused.
"Maybe?" Gosh! Why was he so awkward around women?
The conversation changed, and he dared to ask, "What are your thoughts on me becoming a vampire?"
She seemed amused at the topic, no doubt because of Eragon's mixed feelings. However, she shrugged. "I don't mind," she admitted. "But I know it's a decision you have to make with your dragon."
At this, he was quite intrigued. "How can you be so calm about it while Eragon..." he was amazed.
At this point, she was more than humored. "You're forgetting. I'm part vampire myself being descended from vampires. I was born that way. Because of that, since birth, I've had to have blood about every hundred years or so or I go on a blood craze like regular vampires and hybrids do. It's part of my lineage."
"Oh," Murtagh answered. And that was that. While it intrigued him, and while he couldn't quite understand it, at the same time, he knew that her "normal" had always been different. As an alpha, she was always harder than the rest of the pack. But, there was one other question he wanted to ask. "Are you... venomous?"
"Yes," she was careful. "Granted, very few are venomous that are hybrids or of vampiric descent. I'm one of those few that can actually create a vampire and yet not be a full vampire themselves. Even my niece doesn't have that capability."
"Then why won't you turn me?" Murtagh asked. "Unless you don't have the control?" Even he knew that those that were partially vampires, even if they were Quileutte wolves, didn't necessarily have control if they tasted blood or smelled blood.
"No, I have the control," Emilie confirmed, surprising him. "And I've done it before, twice to be specific. Those two were dying, and we handed them off to another vegetarian coven to raise. But this is between you and Eragon. The mandate still stands. He has to turn you."
"But now I'm part of your world," Murtagh emphasized. He was fairly sure that Eragon would refuse to turn him, but whether it was because he didn't have the control, or he didn't want to, or both, he didn't know.
"Yes," Emilie admitted. "But you're also part of his world, so to speak. Eragon caused the problem to begin with. And no, you're not a problem. But he has to learn. I agreed to the punishment, and I still stand by it."
"You're not fair," Murtagh grumbled. "He'll never do it."
Emilie hesitated. "I think he will," she admitted. "He's working on the control part. Already, he can be around you without harming you, and you're his singer. I think he'll have the strength to do it soon."
"But will he?" Murtagh pushed. There was also still doubt in his mind that Eragon would be willing, even if he had the control.
Emilie considered again. "With pressure, I believe he will. He's conflicted. In many ways, he wants you with him. And yet, he's hesitant to force this life on you, even though it's of you're choosing. It's a psychological problem, mainly."
"Let's just hope Oromis doesn't convince him not to," Murtagh grumbled.
"Oh, I don't think he'll be able," Emilie murmured softly. "You see, Eragon is already starting to come around. He knows that if you and Thorn decide that you want it, then you'll just pester him. Even Saphira is pestering him. It's for the best, after all. Then he can't hurt you."
"Try telling him that."
"We already have." She had a wry smile as she said this.
"Like it's done any good," Murtagh was miffed. Why wouldn't Eragon take his feelings into account?
Just then, Emilie stopped him, her expression soft. "Hey, it'll work out. It always works out."
Murtagh couldn't help but hope she was right.
(Oromis Point of View)
Nasuada had been causing problems. Lately, there had been an influx of magicians into the Stronghold, seeking refuge with the riders who were known magicians. That day, on top of the headache that the missing Murtagh had caused, he'd had to deal with various pleas at the abuse Nasuada was hurling towards magicians.
It was a disturbing turn of events. While he didn't know much about her, other than the fact that his former student Eragon had sworn fealty to her in order to avoid swearing fealty to the Varden council, he also knew that she had been forced to release that holding on him. And silently, he was glad, as was Glaedr. The riders were meant to be separate anyways, and it wasn't good to be in the control of another.
Many were fearing a Galbatorix that was against magicians now. "She's gone mad!" they said.
Oromis was seated on a chair in front of an audience, Glaedr beside him. 'What has happened?' the dragon grumbled.
"She's blaming us for people disappearing!" one of the female magicians, who had an angry look on her face said. "Magicians already have to pay higher taxes than others, and now we have to wear something to identify us, just because we were born with magic! And we're automatically investigated, even if we've done nothing wrong, just because people are missing!"
"Many have already fled to the elves in Du Weldenvarden," another magician admitted. "Queen Arya has tried to negotiate on our behalf. But now, Nasuada has troops stationed to prevent people from going there. She's threatened to cut off trade with the elves in order to force Queen Arya's hand. Surda is reluctant to get involved, though we are able to seek asylum. But rumors have it that Teirm and Surda might try to appease Nasuada by enforcing some of her laws even though she's no longer high queen anymore. They're afraid of her."
"And the dwarves?" Oromis almost feared the answer.
"Have taken refugees. But when Nasuada made demands, and marched troops when King Orik failed to do as she said, he declared war on her! Now, she also has troops blocking the way to the dwarves!"
"You should never have let her be queen!" another woman mourned. "You riders and leaders never even gave the common people the choice! It was decided for us!"
Shaking his head, wondering what his student had done, Oromis turned to Glaedr. It was the duty of the riders to solve disputes. And they had a point. He was shocked that even Arya had done this, agreeing to a monarch for the humans, without consenting the people. Then again, she was a young queen, and youths could make mistakes.
'The riders homeland will be open to all magicians,' Glaedr promised, and there was some relief, but not all. However, Glaedr brought to their attention another thing that was bothering him. 'Now, what is this about disappearances?'
"People have been disappearing," a man stepped forward. "Why, we don't know. But Nasuada has blamed us for it. And, some would say even worse, the dead have been coming back. Sometimes the not so friendly."
Oromis's eyes widened, and he and Glaedr exchanged a look. He wondered if this was linked to what was happening according to Murtagh. And, unfortunately, the meeting was a month away. They were due to leave the next day just to make it there on time due to the distance.
It was intriguing that it would take around a month of flying just to make it there. Brom, who wanted to come, was going to have to stay behind to sort out this mess. He hated leaving Brom here when he wanted to find his sons, but someone had to man the forts. They'd be in contact anyways.
Holding up his hands to stop the chatter, Oromis responded, "We will take care of this, I promise you. However, there is a more pressing issue that Glaedr and I will have to leave to attend to, something that I fear may be linked to this." At the murmurs and the curiosity to know what it was, Oromis insisted, "We will say nothing more on the subject. However, you are welcome to stay here until further notice."
Getting up, leaving them there, having a massive headache, he and his dragon left. But, as they did, Oromis said to his partner, 'I can't believe that I'm saying this, but I'm glad we're taking over the riders considering the mess that has been caused. Perhaps Eragon and Arya were too young to lead.'
'There weren't many options,' Glaedr reminded them. 'They're hatchlings, yes. But wisdom comes with time, and unfortunately, from making mistakes.'
'I fear you are right.'
It was disturbing what was happening back in Alagaesia. Some part of him wanted to set things right immediately even though he knew that wasn't possible. But they had bigger problems to worry about. However, having another potential Galbatorix wasn't what he wanted to deal with when coming back from the dead.
Oromis went to pack.
(Eragon Point of View)
Eragon starred at the two ancient vampires in front of him, Vladimir and Stefan, they were called. While they tended to throw murderous looks at Jane and Alec, for some reason, at the same time, they seemed to have taken an interest in Eragon.
They were red eyed vampires. And he didn't want them here with Murtagh around.
Murtagh had been taken to the mortal Quileutte's village in an effort to hide his scent. They didn't want the Romanian coven to get any ideas.
Vladimir seemed amused. "So, how close are you to Jane and Alec?"
Eragon glared. Already he didn't like them. "Why does it matter?" he grumbled, watching their every move.
The two vampires glanced conspiratorially together. "We're not fond of Jane and Alec. In case you haven't noticed, they ousted our coven from power."
"You used to rule the vampire world?" Eragon was instantly curious, his guard melting.
"Why, yes!" Stefan replied eagerly, seeing as his defenses had melted. "We-"
"Stefan!" Jane snapped, appearing in the distance. They'd known she was there, but they were apparently testing Alec and Jane's limits to see what they could get away with. And apparently she'd had enough. She and Alec were by Eragon's side in an instant. "You said you had a reason for being here. Now spill it or be gone!"
Eragon couldn't help but grumble. It had to be an interesting story he was missing.
Vladimir and Stefan smirked. "Just came out of Alagaesia," they said. "Had an interesting... meal. Anyways, I thought you should know that we ran into an old menace while we were there."
"Menace?" Alec was instantly alert.
Taking a note out of his pocket, Vladimir said, "Apparently, a Riley Biers wanted me to hand this to you, Eragon. He said it was for your brother."
Jane snatched the note before Eragon could get to it. When she read it, she crumpled it in her hands. "Hey!" Eragon protested. "That was for me!"
"Riley is no friend," Alec was firm, eyeing the Romanians still. His face was expressionless.
"What did it say?" Eragon demanded, suspicious. Jane and Alec tended to cover things up, after all.
"Yes," Stefan egged the twins on. "Do tell." And he was smirking. They must have guessed that Alec and Jane weren't always forthcoming and Eragon was tired of that.
At this, Jane was hesitant. "It's a trap," she advised Eragon. But the rider rounded on her.
"What did it say?" Eragon hissed, and Jane reluctantly handed him the note while Alec glared at the Romanians. Evidently, Jane must have thought that a fight with Jane wasn't worth it. Alec simply didn't care, watching the Romanian coven in front of him.
Taking the note swiftly, Eragon read it.
Have Murtagh meet me back in Alagaesia, the old castle Tornac raised him in.
I look forward to meeting with him and Eragon.
Riley Biers
It was written in Alagaesian, except for the name, written in a language that Eragon didn't recognize. It was almost as if the vampire knew that Eragon wasn't trained in too many languages yet. He didn't know what to think of it. But, he was definitely willing to consider that it was a trap.
Alec turned to Jane. "Do you think that it's Riley that's causing all of this trouble?"
"Doubtful," Jane shook her head, thinking. "Considering what we've seen of him. This isn't really his style. But is he a loose end that might know something? Maybe. Maybe not."
"Are you saying there could be more than one group causing trouble?" Eragon asked. "And is it really needful to contact the people in Alageasia now that we have a clue?"
"Oooh!" Stefan mocked. "The Volturi stooping that low again?"
"Shut up!" Alec hissed, and the Romanians were instantly silent. "Face it, the only reason you're here, since you hate us so much, is you have no choice. Somehow, you know you're in trouble to. Or you have a hidden agenda. Or both."
The Romanians frowned. "Let's just say someone we're interested in has disappeared."
"Making a newborn, are you?" Jane challenged, a smile on her face.
Stefan rolled his eyes. "She was already turned, and not by us. No, this is an old friend. An old acquaintance. A mutual acquaintance. Remember Vivian?"
Instantly, the twins were frozen in shock. "She's missing?" Alec was a bit harsh. The twins were watching even more carefully now, their demeanor changed. Eragon guessed that they were going to be willing to work together, even if it was brief. Whatever and whoever this was about, she must have been fairly important to the vampire world.
"How can a vampire go missing?" Eragon piped up, but everyone ignored him, as usual when there was crucial information around. That is, unless she was destroyed? Or did she choose to leave this world?
The Romanians turned serious. "You're right. We're not fond of you. But, in this case, we owe a debt to Vivian. And she's gone missing. She was supposed to try one of her new inventions on us and a handful of others. So, we thought we'd be good 'citizens' for once, and turn in the information. After all, we know you're investigating the region. Word gets around quickly when the Volturi are involved."
"Missing," Alec had a calculating, concerned look on his face. "This isn't good. She's an inventor in her own right. The Inventress is missing. The vampire world needs her."
"Exactly."
At this point, Eragon was going to say something again, but Stefan cut him off, as if he weren't there. "It's not like her, you know that. And there has been trouble in the region."
"We know!" Alec was frustrated. "We can't seem to solve it! No, more is going on, and more than Riley, that is. None the less, I want to interrogate him. I know he's waiting for us. Why he wants to meet, though, I don't know."
"It's Murtagh he wants to meet," Eragon pointed out.
"He shouldn't," Jane warned. "Riley will only harm him."
"Well," Stefan and Vladimir backed up. "We've been good citizens. But, seeing as we can't stand to be in your presence, we'll be saying goodbye now."
They were gone in a flash. Jane and Alec sighed, shaking their heads. "More complications," Jane grumbled.
"But maybe answers," Alec was hopeful, putting a hand on his sister's shoulders.
As the two turned, not doubt to tell Emilie, Eragon opted to stay on the look out, knowing one of his other coven sisters was nearby. Ariadne could look after him. And this was too stressful, being too close to the time they had to meet with Oromis.
But he was worried about Murtagh.
(Jane Point of View)
Murtagh was looking at her. She had brought the dragon rider aside to talk to him. "Where's Eragon?" was his first concern.
"He's not here, and gladly not," Jane replied, hand on his wrist, guiding him in the forest. Alec was nowhere to be seen but was no doubt nearby. But another vampire, Ariadne, as Murtagh had learned she was called, was in the distance, watching out for them. She had run him here, easily placing him on her back before gently placing him on the ground and leading him, her hand on his wrist.
"Gladly not?" Murtagh echoed. "Why?"
Jane turned to him, satisfied there was no danger around. "He doesn't want you worried, but you have a right to know. Saphira agrees. I had to talk to her privately while Eragon was hunting. Loosely put, we received a death note regarding you yesterday." She waited to see how the human would react.
He froze. Then, after the shock wore off, he looked away. "Eragon needs to turn me soon."
"We can do nothing without your dragon present," Jane pointed out. "And that's slightly less than a month away. But, I fear things are accelerating."
"What was in that death note?" Murtagh demanded to know.
"A trouble maker from our past, Riley Biers, wants to meet with you and Eragon in the castle that this Tornac raised you in."
Murtagh seemed to be calculating. He looked healthier now that he was eating. He would eat willingly now, thank goodness. His emotional state was also stabilizing now that he was near Eragon and Saphira. Turning to her at human speed, he asked, "Is he a human eater?" Jane nodded. "Great," he grumbled.
Jane was calm. She wanted to see what he would do. But Murtagh, being Murtagh, turned to Jane. "Is there any way we can speed up the meeting?"
A frown was on Jane's face. She could see where this was going. "No. You're not going."
"If I have vampires or wolves with me, shouldn't it be all right?" Murtagh was practically begging. "Besides, this isn't just about you. I have friends too, you know, who could be in danger."
"You don't know that," Jane cautioned him.
"Exactly," Murtagh was firm. "I have to make sure."
Jane was now calculating. "I suppose I could talk to Alec. We really don't want to go into Alagaesia unless we have to." She turned to Murtagh. "Can't you be patient?"
"Not with people's lives on the line," Murtagh was firm.
Jane was considering again. "What if we challenged Riley? Make him come here?"
Murtagh considered. But would it do any good? Then again, Jane was probably right. I was more than likely a trap. But, would she succeed. "Can you do that?" he asked her. How could anyone contain a vampire, considering what he'd seen?
Jane raised her head defiantly. "Do you really think the Volturi would have gotten anywhere without me and Alec?"
He wasn't sure what that meant, but he knew better than to argue. And, it was a way to potentially get what he wanted. So, he chose not to argue. "We both want answers," Jane reassured him. "If he knows something that can help us solve this case, then we're obliged to seek him out."
"Okay," Murtagh got the picture and nodded his consent. "That's better than nothing."
Jane took his hand again. "I'll take you back. It's best that we keep this from Eragon for now. No one thinks he'll handle us having this conversation well."
Murtagh consented. That said, he didn't think it would be possible to keep it from Eragon for long. But maybe that didn't matter.
He was rushed back.
(Morzan Point of View)
Morzan paced back and forth. He was well aware that time was precious. Whoever had sent this death note about his son was going to pay.
The dragon was growling and his oldest friend's voice entered his head. 'The nerve of that person. Make sure you make his death painful and slow.'
'I have every intention,' Morzan replied to his dragon. So far, the dragon was deciding between two different names, undecided as of yet. But they both felt the quicker he decided on a name, the better. No one knew if the banishing of names was going to kick in again. It was better safe than sorry.
They were currently outside Uru'baen, or Iliera as Morzan had come to know that it was called now. Apparently, a Nasuada had taken the thrown after Galbatorix's decease. Now the Forsworn that were back were debating on what to do.
Morzan had their support. He had every intention of taking the throne, or at least until Galbatorix came back. Then he could hand the throne off to him again. Besides, he already had an heir, even if that heir had proven unwilling.
He'd gathered what little information he could on short notice. It wasn't to his liking. Murtagh had given the king problems, and had been forced to swear allegiance as a result. It was understandable. It was in his child's best interest to make sure he didn't taint the family name and cause problems for his guardian. It was for his protection. Though, perhaps if the king had been a bit softer with him, he wouldn't have responded in such a way. He knew that Galbatorix was not always patient.
Not that he should talk. He'd been rough with Murtagh as a youngster. But, he freely admitted that he had problems. Still, with Galbatorix, he knew he hadn't gotten the full context of the story.
Finally, as the sun set, the darkness coming on, he turned around and was surprised to find a figure in the distance. He startled when, in the blink of an eye, the figure was in front of him. His dragon growled, and he felt fear seep through the link. 'He's not natural,' Morzan was warned as the being smirked at him.
Red eyes met his own, and the dark blonde hair waved some in the wind, but was too short to do much of anything. "I see you got my message," the creature smirked.
Fists curling in anger, Morzan brought out the sword he'd stolen and pointed it at the man's throat, despite the danger signals coming to his body that he had suppressed. "You have no idea!" Morzan hissed, anger about his family being threatened in his gaze.
The creature scoffed and took the sword, crushing a part of it into powder. Morzan's eyes widened, and he immediately opted for magic, only to find that it didn't work.
"Relax," the creature tried to soothe, an amused look at his attempts. That's when Morzan knew he was being played with, for amusement, more than likely. "I don't have you're son at all. No, I just need you in order to get to him."
Morzan's eyes widened as he realized the trap, and the creature launched at him before he could think.
(A Short Time Later)
When Morzan woke up, he was in a room, a library to be specific. His dragon was nowhere around. There were no windows, nor were there any exits. The only light came from a single candle in the back of the massive room.
"About time you're up!" a grumpy voice said, and Morzan got up, staring at the far corner where Kialandi and Formora were, dragons missing, and one other trembling figure, a human whom Morzan didn't recognize.
Morzan immediately was on his feet. "How did you get here?" he asked the Forsworn, ignoring the trembling human.
Kialandi narrowed his eyes. He had yet to speak. "You got sent another note, so we took the message. Didn't expect you to have a son. Anyways, we figured you would need some backup. That's how we got captured by whatever that person is."
"We've tried getting out," Formora said, concern and fear in her eyes for the first time in a long time. "Can't quite do that. The moment we run, we're always recaptured and put back here. They're fast."
"They?!" Morzan was alarmed. Whatever happened, he wasn't expecting more than one.
Formora grimaced. "Magic isn't working either."
"I found that out the hard way," Morzan replied, still wary from the situation. "I tried it on the creature. He just stood there, mocking me." He was slightly touched that his comrades had gone after them, as he wasn't expecting it. It was nice to know someone had his back.
They seemed to be thinking along the same lines. "You should have told us," Kialandi was somewhat harsh. He was serious in his expression, looking like he was betrayed at the lack of trust. "We would have backed you. We're in this together."
"Forgive me if I remember the infighting," Morzan grimaced, not quite ready to trust, but starting to as he remembered their friendship.
"Yes," Formora rolled her eyes. But a part of her was miffed, and dare he say maybe hurt at Morzan's lack of trust. "It was all meant to be fun and games, wasn't it? None of us meant to take it too far. But we ended up doing so. Needless to say, doing some thinking in the underworld gives you perspective."
"We have to work together," Kialandi was firm, and Morzan noticed that he was willing to put the past behind them, especially with the issues they were facing. "Otherwise we're as good as dead, anyways. Besides, this child is a child of the Forsworn, and is therefore he's one of us. We'll back him." And he was dead serious, Morzan knew. Being in the underworld really did give one perspective.
"We still haven't decided on whose going to rule," Morzan folded his arms, trying the waters of renewing their friendship and Kialandi folded his arms.
"I was pretty sure you were making a bid for the throne," Kialandi mocked. But then he was serious again, calm. "At this point, I'm saying that's the least of our worries. In all honesty, though, since you have a child already, and considering human customs, you have the best bet, over us. As long as we had the power we had before, I don't mind. Just don't shun us out."
"I won't," Morzan promised. He was well aware that they needed to work together.
Suddenly, the door opened, and the only other figure in the corner whimpered even more. In walked the strange creature that had kidnapped Morzan. The door was shut behind him. At this point, he knew fleeing would be pointless. So, he opted for trying to weasel some information out of him.
The creature stopped in front of Morzan. He eyed him for a very long time, so stalk still that it was unnatural, and then, suddenly, he told him, "Your son. Where is he?"
"Why would I tell you?" Morzan folded his arms, but even he was apprehensive, knowing he was at a disadvantage. The last thing he was going to do was aid this creature in capturing his son, not that he knew where he was, anyways. "And where are our dragons?"
The creature scoffed. "They put up a fight. But it doesn't matter. What can a dragon do to one such as I? It was easy to subdue them."
Formora and Kialandi immediately headed over, angry at the implied threat their heart partners were under. "You have nerve," Kialandi said, clenching his fists. But Morzan was beginning to think he didn't. He was beginning to realize how much at a disadvantage they were as a predatory look appeared on the creature.
"No," the creature replied, turning to the elves, a sly look on his face. "You have nerve, messing around with vampires." He smirked, and in the blink of an eye, Morzan was hoisted on his shoulder, out and in another room, the door shut. It happened so fast that it left Morzan shocked as he was thrust harshly into a chair. His heart sped with fear. The door to this room was shut. It had all happened in less than a second.
The creature, who apparently needed no light, was walking casually around. "Want a drink?" he mocked, going over to a far cabinet and pulling some juice out. Morzan could barely see in the darkness. But some light was seeping through the windows, behind the curtains. His previous prison where the others were didn't even have windows. "I hear humans get... thirsty... easily." The creature smirked.
Morzan knew there was more behind that comment than he was catching on and understanding. Instead, he opted for a question of his own. "Who are you?"
"Riley Biers," the figure said immediately, pouring a drink, and handing the glass to Morzan who accepted it shakily. He sipped from it, not sure he should have. For allh he knew, it was poisoned. But he was thirsty. It had been a while since he'd eaten and drunk anything. The creature watched him the whole time.
"What do you want from my son?" Morzan asked when he'd worked up the courage, apprehensive.
Riley didn't answer. But when Morzan finished the glass, he snatched it out of his hand with ease and poured more juice, handing it back to Morzan. "What I want from Murtagh is my concern," the creature finally answered. Morzan was surprised that the creature used his son's name, almost like he'd known him a while. Morzan hoped not. This creature terrified him, not that he would admit it. Morzan didn't want his son friends with something like this that was dangerous.
But that wasn't good enough. "He's my son. I have a right to know."
"Ah," Riley scoffed, stalk still, predator like as he observed. "Pulling the father card out. You think that will work? You weren't a very good father, after all, from what I've been reading. Murtagh said so in his journals he left in Uru'baen, or rather Illeria now. And I've read the reports of what good ol' Galby did to your son. You must be very proud." His tone was mocking in the end.
Something about this made the hair on Morzan's neck raise. Surely the king wouldn't torture his own son, as Riley seemed to be implying? Riley's expression was interested as he watched Morzan's face change into different expressions at what was implied.
Morzan shook his head. "Galbatorix was his godfather. He wouldn't harm him. He's the son of the Forsworn." 'And my friend,' Morzan thought.
"Wouldn't he?" Riley mocked, and he walked to the far side of the room, pulling down a notebook. "Care to see?"
Angrily, Morzan snatched the notebook away and threw it to the far side of the room. "It's fabricated," he accused.
"Oh?" Riley began. "Well, why don't you ask your son when he arrives?"
Clenching his fists, angry, Morzan stood up, not about to play this game. Torture was reserved for enemies of the empire, not for children of the Forsworn, or the Forsworn themselves. "I will not have this," Morzan was cold, and yet he was fearful.
Suddenly, something seemed to occupy Riley's attention. He was turned away in an instant. It took a few minutes for Morzan to register that something else had Riley's attention, but by that time, Riley was already speaking so softly he couldn't hear. Then, he said aloud, quite softly but a little louder, agitated and clearly fearful, "I have no intention."
Morzan watched the display, and Riley tense up further, alarmed. Suddenly, in walked two figures in cloaks, looking about seventeen. A boy and a girl stood before him, eyes a deep gold compared to Riley's deep red, but clearly the same species as this Riley. Riley was tense, and if he was able to figure these creatures out, Riley was scared and was trying to contain his emotions.
That's when Morzan realized he'd only caught part of the conversation. So these creatures could hear from far away, then. But how far?
"Good," the female said in a commanding tone, but barely audible and for a moment her eyes flickered over to Morzan and then ignored him as if he wasn't there or wasn't worth her time. "Then you'll concede to come with us."
Riley looked torn, almost scared, like he'd been caught and he answered softly, "Yes," looking defeated.
Morzan was left in the dark as the creatures disappeared. The door was shut, locked.
(Murtagh Point of View)
He should have known that Eragon would find out eventually. The boy was mad. But, it had accomplished the best of everything. Riley was standing in the middle of the coven and pack. The truce this Riley was given guaranteed that he wouldn't be harmed, at least not physically, and that his coven would be left behind.
The red eyes of Riley unnerved him, but truth be told, Riley looked more unnerved, being in the middle of hostile vampires and werewolves. But Jane and Alec hadn't given him and his coven much of a choice.
Eragon was the one to start the interrogation. "The note. What do you want with me and my brother?"
Riley turned to Eragon. "Who says it has everything to do with you and your brother?"
"The one tearing the veils," Jane interrogated next. Her voice was harsh. "Was it you?"
"No," Riley was adamant.
"Then what do you know about it?" Alec was cold.
"Nothing!" Riley hissed, in denial.
At this point, Murtagh could tell that Jane was loosing her patience. And she had a demeanor in her eyes that he'd never seen before. It was somewhat frightening, and the hair on Murtagh's neck rose, instinctively knowing trouble was coming.
"Eragon," Jane then said, not taking her eyes off of Riley. "Please get Murtagh out of here."
Riley's eyes widened perceptibly as if he knew something of what was coming that Murtagh could only guess. But Eragon wasn't having it. "I need to find out what's going on."
"Eragon," Alec was firm, backing his sister. Riley was being surrounded, and he was looking around, defensive. "You don't need your brother here for this." There was something in his tone that indicated that something bad was coming that they didn't want Eragon or Murtagh to see, something that Eragon didn't know about them.
Eragon seemed to be deliberating. But despite the fear that Murtagh was in, he wanted answers as well. "I'm not leaving," Murtagh was firm.
"I'm telling you," Riley growled, crouched down in anticipation. "I don't know anything!"
It all happened so fast that Murtagh barely had a chance to react to the fear he was seeing. Jane's head snapped back to Riley from looking at Eragon and in an instant Riley was on the ground, screaming in pain.
Murtagh felt his blood pressure rise and his heart pound and Jane began intensifying the interrogation. "You know something. Now what do you know?"
"I don't know anything!" Riley begged only to be put through more pain.
Eragon had been frozen in shock, clearly not realizing that Jane had this talent, and as Murtagh whimpered, remembering Galbatorix, in an instant, Eragon was beside him, shielding him from the view.
"Liar!" Jane screamed and Riley was screaming again.
His head was buried in Eragon's chest as he was crying silently, and he heard Emilie's voice from far away, compassionate and soft, saying, "Eragon, get Murtagh out of here. Now." There was no room left in her tone for argument as she could see that her imprintee was affected.
Riley screamed in pain again, but the screams diminished as he was carried bridal style by Eragon through the forest, far away.
He'd barely had a chance to recover when Eragon set him down again. He tried hard to get his breathing under control, wheezing. Finally, when he had enough control, he noticed Eragon staring at him in concern. "Did you know that she could do that?" Murtagh dared to look at his brother, who was concerned, realizing how this must have affected him.
"No," Eragon admitted, his tone soft. "I knew that she and Alec were gifted, as are all the vampires in my coven, but I didn't know what her ability was as I'd never witnessed it before." He paused for a second. "Now I know why some vampires are wary of her and why she has a ton of respect in my world."
He was shaking. He knew he was, but he couldn't help it. And he hated that he was shaking so bad in front of Eragon.
"It makes sense why she could kidnap Riley so easily," Eragon was rambling on. "He left the moment she demanded it of him." Glancing back, Murtagh had no doubt that Eragon could still hear the screaming, that was if Riley was being interrogated. Eragon wanted to hear and thus Murtagh knew he would have brought Murtagh far enough away to where he could still hear what was going on, but Murtagh wouldn't be able to hear.
"What's happening?" Murtagh asked after some hesitation, not sure if he wanted to know.
Eragon, he knew, was editing a lot out for Murtagh's sake. "I think they've determined that Riley isn't behind the tears in the veil. At least not entirely. But there's another coven in the region, or a few. They have... someone that Riley is interested in. That's why he wants you and me, a trade in his opinion, to get his lover back, or whoever she is."
"Vampires kidnap another vampire?" Murtagh was hesitant. That didn't seem possible, apart from Jane and Alec, that was.
Eragon shook his head. "She's human. I think he wanted to change her, but she got kidnapped. But this coven is creating a lot of newborns, so Riley did the same in retaliation. They've specifically demanded you and me from Riley in exchange for his human."
"Do you think they're the ones causing it?"
Eragon looked unsure. "A lot of people, even vampires, are coming back. Grudges in the vampire world don't necessarily go away. It could be a continuation of fighting, for all we know. But, we're fairly sure, since it's people in Alagaesia coming back instead of elsewhere, that someone in Alagaesia, is behind it."
"A vampire?" Murtagh asked.
Eragon nodded. "That's the only explanation. Unfortunately, a lot of covens are popping up. We weren't sure the veil was in Alagaesia until now. Even then, we still don't know that it's even in Alagaesia. It's just as possible that its somewhere else, but since Alagaesia is the closest place with a dense population of food for the traditionals, that they're resorting there."
"Great," Murtagh murmured. "And we still don't know what this other coven wants."
"No," Eragon was worried, turning back to Murtagh, hand on his shoulders to calm him down. "They may not even be behind the tears in the veil, for all we know."
"And if one of the Forsworn comes back?" Murtagh dreaded, hoping that Morzan wouldn't. "What then?"
Eragon had a grim smile on his face as he spoke to his brother. "I think Galbatorix and the Forsworn are the least of our worries, Murtagh, since vampires are involved."
Then there was that. He knew it was true. But the idea of coming face to face with his father wasn't really heartening. He'd never considered the fact that it could happen until now, as he'd been too preoccupied with other things. But, as mention of the veil came up again, it had popped up in his mind.
Eragon looked behind him. "They're done," he informed his brother. He turned back. "Riley's running away. No doubt he won't be back for a while."
That was when Murtagh knew something was being held back. "What aren't you saying, Eragon?"
Eragon hesitated, surprised that Murtagh had noticed. But he sighed, knowing he needed to be honest. "Jane and Alec told me, shortly after they brought Riley, before they had me go get you, since you wanted to be involved, that Riley's holding friends of yours hostage."
Murtagh paled. He knew that Jane and Alec hadn't wanted him there from the beginning, probably because of the tactics they were going to use, but they'd known that Murtagh would have complained otherwise.
Murtagh backed up. "It's all right," Eragon reassured him. "Riley can't harm them as he needs you and I for a trade off. With us here, Riley's hands are tied."
"We need to save them!" Murtagh was desperate. It was getting all too much for him. People he cared about were affected, all on account of him.
"In time," Eragon promised. "But there are bigger issues. Riley can't harm them. He needs them alive. They'll be... okay... for now."
Murtagh wasn't so sure, but he knew that he had no choice in the matter.
Eragon took him back.
(Oromis Point of View)
A month had passed, and they were now at the gorges that Murtagh had mentioned to Thorn. Murtagh had been right. It had taken them slightly over a month, even though they were flying on dragons, to reach here. In fact, it had taken a little longer than Murtagh had anticipated.
Glaedr had taken a few others besides Oromis, all elves, and Thorn had flown Vanir and another female elf. He would be able to lift his rider. They'd made sure of that.
It was a delegation of elves and dragons. No humans were present. Oromis wanted to make sure that they had strong fighters with them, not that it would be of any use.
It was currently nighttime, and they were camped, waiting by the gorges. Neither Oromis nor Glaedr anticipated any contact until morning. Currently, his dragon was watching him.
'Peace,' Glaedr finally said as he sensed Oromis's emotions. Magic hadn't been working (though strangely enough the dragons could fly, and he still had his elvish speed and strength). 'We will find answers in the morning.'
'I hope,' Oromis murmured softly to him. This was unlike any situation he had faced before. He was deeply worried about the predicament Alagaesia was in. He'd heard from Brom a week ago, back when magic was still working, that war had broken out in Alagaesia. Nasuada had marched on the dwarves. And, as usual, Arya backed the dwarves. So, Nasuada had declared war on the elves as well, calling them traitors.
Surda was neutral, refusing to take a side. The urgals were unusually neutral as well. Strange to say, some had said they'd seem them fearful and skittish, though what could make an urgal this way, Oromis didn't know. Unless it was one of the creatures who had kidnapped Murtagh...
He shuddered to think of that. If the urgals, who were fearsome, had reason to fear these creatures, then these creatures were fearful indeed. He knew of nothing that could make urgals so skittish.
Several of Nasuada's earls had turned against her, including Roran. So, she'd sent troops. The last Oromis had heard, Nasuada had decimated Palancar valley and had stripped Roran of his title. Where the former earl was, he didn't know. He suspected he was either captured or was on the run with Katrina and his daughter Ismira.
But magicians were abandoning Nasuada like the plague, even Trianna. But, after being captured, they were blackmailed into either helping her, or watching loved ones die. For that reason, she still had control of a number of magicians, even if they were reluctantly serving her.
That Nasuada's reign and kingdom was falling apart so rapidly was concerning. She had the alliance of the desert tribes due to her lineage. But she was driving everyone else away from her. Meanwhile, there were bigger issues to deal with.
Everything was one giant mess.
Vanir must have seen his expression, because he came over. He exchanged greetings. Then, "Is everything all right?"
Oromis deflated. "No," he admitted, sitting by a tree. "When... the riders were attacked and falling... we had time to plan. But this time we haven't. Things are just happening so fast and are so chaotic. That, and there are so many problems whereas it used to be the only problems were Galbatorix, his Forsworn, and a few others. Now we're dealing with multiple issues and multiple parties, and we may not even know them all."
Vanir seemed in deep thought, and Oromis saw the fear and stress in his eyes. "This wasn't supposed to happen," the younger elf said. He sat down as well, sighing. "Everything we fought for is falling apart."
"I can only hope," Oromis contemplated. "That we get some answers tomorrow."
"And if they won't give it?" Vanir's eyes were terrified and he turned to the elf. "I don't like the stories you told me. I was taught to believe in magic. But now I'm thinking that this is a mess that magic can't fix."
"You're right," Oromis replied. And it left him without a direction on how to proceed. The riders had relied so heavily on magic that to have that taken away from them dealt them a serious blow. It was a circumstance that Oromis didn't know how to deal with because magic was so heavily apart of the order from the beginning.
He looked into the distance. It would do no good to continue on like this. No, it was best to rest up before having the meeting.
Oromis fell into his waking dreams. But they were uneasy.
(The Next Day)
There was a clearing by the gorge, and Oromis waited nervously. Despite the fact that he tried to put on a calm air, everyone knew he was nervous. Even Glaedr was tense. Things were just too different from anything that had happened before. There was too much uncertainty in the air.
Thorn was fidgeting. He was eager to see his rider. 'He's near,' he told Oromis. 'I can sense him.'
At least there was that.
Then, in the distance, shapes suddenly appeared in the distance. And, in an instance, making no effort to hide what they were, the figures were mere feet from them, startling everybody, the elves fearful because of their speed. They could also sense how dangerous and predator like they were.
There were more of them than there were of Oromis's group, and that immediately made the rider nervous. Glaedr growled in surprise. But, that wasn't what got there attention.
There, in the front, taking off their hoods, were the two individuals that Oromis recognized from the tapestries. They looked exactly like they did in the tapestries, which Orik had told him was dated before the humans, who had landed before the elves and left, had even arrived. They were staring at them expressionless, eyes golden. And, causing Oromis's heart to jump with many emotions, beside the two individuals from the tapestry, was another a pale person that looked like he was once an elf. It took a moment for Oromis to recognize him, but once he did, despite how different he looked, he was sure it was his former student Eragon.
Eragon had golden eyes, concern in them. He was doing nothing to hide his emotions, unlike the others. But there was also longing there, like he missed them.
In the distance, there was a blue outline, and flying faster than any dragon could and landing with such speed that no dragon was capable of, a dragon that looked like Saphira and yet didn't look like her landed, Murtagh perched on top. He landed on the dragon right next to his brother.
Thorn's eyes immediately widened in surprise and delight that his rider was near. Murtagh leapt off and stumbled, where Eragon moved with such speed that was unlike even an elf and caught him, eyes still on Oromis. His students emotions, as he saw his former teacher, went by too fast for Oromis to read.
Many of the elves were frozen, not sure whether this strange figure who bore some resemblance to Eragon was indeed him or not. And the dragoness had them confused. No doubt, they weren't sure if she was even Saphira. But they recognized Murtagh immediately.
Not all of the figures were pale. Some looked like ordinary humans, except Oromis could tell there was more than met the eye. For one, they had moved at the speed of the creatures of these tapestries, something no elf or human could do. And they'd been a different shape before turning into a human shape, though what shape they had been, Oromis couldn't tell, as they'd moved too fast for even an elf to tell.
The female from the tapestry was the first to speak. "It has been a very long time since we've been to Alagaesia. Last we remember, you were still on the old continent. But it doesn't matter. What matters now is this very exchange that happens." Her voice was filled with authority, and yet it seemed to lack emotion, or she was keeping her emotion out of her tone. Oromis wasn't sure which one it was. In many ways it was frustrating, as Oromis would have been able to gauge her otherwise.
Surprise hit Oromis. He wondered how old this seventeen year old looking girl really was. And clearly, though others in the group looked older, (though he wondered if looks could be deceiving), she was the leader of this group.
Knowing what he wanted, Oromis tried to throw his card. He wasn't sure if it would work, as he knew he was at the disadvantage, but he decided to try anyways. Addressing the female leader, he announced aloud, "If you don't mind, I'd like to speak with Eragon, Murtagh, and Saphira alone first please."
He was surprised at the answer. "Very well," the female immediately gave her consent.
Eragon immediately began walking over, which surprised Oromis. He didn't even glance at the others. If he was indeed brainwashed, Oromis would have expected him to at least glance at the others for permission, but he did not.
Murtagh followed, a bit slower as he didn't have the speed of these creatures, and Saphira followed him. Even they didn't ask for permission. Why, Oromis didn't understand, but he expected he'd find out. They did say they wanted to talk.
Eragon arrived first, his expression somewhat sheepish. None the less, he exchanged the standard elvish greeting, hands to his lips, and Oromis was too stunned at first to reply. But reply he did. And he had no doubt that despite looking different, this was indeed Eragon. The voice, though different, held the personality that he recognized in Eragon.
Shortly later, Murtagh arrived and they exchanged greetings. Thorn was by Murtagh's side in an instance, and Murtagh wrapped his arms around the red dragon's neck, crying in happiness. Even Thorn was delighted by his rider's presence.
Nodding to Saphira so she wouldn't be left out, Oromis led them away, Glaedr joining them. The figures behind them remained still as stone except for the none pale ones, who were none the less observant.
When he was sure they were out of sight, Oromis turned to him. Glaedr, to his surprise was looking at him, though he heard no words. Eragon seemed to have caught on to what was going on, for he informed Glaedr, "Magic will not work around us. You will have to learn, as Saphira learned, to project your voice to where it's vocally audible."
To his surprise, Oromis heard Saphira's voice, not in his mind, but as sound waves in the air. "It takes getting used to. But it works."
They weren't sure how this was done, so that was when Oromis knew that the task was going to fall on him until he and Glaedr figured it out. It was unusual, a dragon affecting the sound waves to speak.
Oromis turned to Eragon, pure concern on his face. He looked his student up and down, and then looked to Thorn, who clearly wanted to speak to Murtagh but was unable to. Turning back to Eragon, he asked, slightly horrified, "What has happened to you?"
Sheepish once more, the little personality that he recognized as Eragon was back. "It's a long story, master. I'm not sure there's time."
"I will not speak to them until I know what has happened to you," Oromis was insistent, standing his ground.
To his surprise, his student looked miffed. But, he conceded, launching into a long tale of that fated date when he disappeared. At a glance at Murtagh, Oromis saw that the red rider already knew this story. No doubt Eragon had told it to him.
The tale was bone chilling. Oromis knew his expressions weren't controlled like they normally were, and as Eragon got to the part where the creature had killed him violently, torturing him to death in a slow manner, Oromis cringed, his expression growing more horrified by the second. It ended with Eragon dead for who knew how long, but Saphira had figured was around three hours.
"That's when the pain started," Eragon whispered, wincing slightly. "That's the brightest memory I have of my human life."
The tale stopped, Eragon explaining briefly how "vampires" as he called himself, were created. "It's pain unlike anything you've ever faced, ebrithil," Eragon whispered, and Oromis wanted to wince, but he was too frozen, too enraptured by the tale to do anything. "But, the healing qualities are miraculous. Quite miraculous. It healed every injury and made everything stronger than before."
He pitied his student for having to go through this. A question was going around his mind and he managed, although barely, to ask it. "You make it sound like this wasn't instantaneous."
"It wasn't," Eragon admitted, warily glancing at Murtagh like he didn't want him to hear what was coming up. "Venom moves slower than blood. For me, because there was only a little bit in my system, it took a little over five days." Murtagh winced. Apparently that part had been kept from him. Eragon glanced briefly at him. Then he was back to watching Oromis. "I was in pain the whole time, the worst pain I've ever been in, if I can recall my human life correctly."
Some part of Oromis was crying, though he didn't show it. His hand was to his mouth in horror as he paced around. His compassion made it to where it was hard for him to bear the tale, with how horrifying it was.
Eragon gave him a moment to recover before moving on with his tale, his first instincts leading to his first hunt, realizing what he was, and then seeing his dragon. He then explained his instinctive reaction was to bite Saphira, and how he'd learned from Jane and Alec that that was a normal and necessary instinct in order that venom could enter her system so that she could be around him. "So venom courses through her veins now," Eragon explained.
He told about how he'd stayed as far away from sentient life as possible, fearful of what he'd become, not understanding what he was and what he had become. "Jane assured me it calms down after the newborn year. But, already I'm able to somewhat be around others. Though... it's difficult to be around Murtagh. It hurts. It's like shoving burning coal down your throat. Though, I always try to be careful when I'm around him. Not that it's safe for him. There's always a chance that one of us could loose control, especially me with how young I am, and because Murtagh's blood affects me the most."
Eragon moved on, explaining how he was able to get some control and moving on to how he'd discovered Jane, Alec, and the Quileuttes, who had taken him under wing, explaining to him about his new life, what he was now.
"I've been with them ever since," Eragon replied. "And then, needing some closure, even though I wasn't supposed to, I contacted Murtagh. I'm still trying to discover what I'm capable of. Unfortunately, they were right. I thought it would give him closure as well. But instead, it peaked his curiosity. If I'd listened to Jane and Alec, then he wouldn't have come. But, I suppose it's for the best, considering everything that's happened."
Oromis shook his head, not sure what to make of everything. Eragon lived off of blood, and even Eragon admitted that what he was made him dangerous. He supposed he could understand why Eragon had stayed away. Oromis, who valued life, couldn't imagine having to live like that knowing you couldn't subsist upon anything else but blood. Then again, it wasn't Eragon's fault. He couldn't help it, nor could he help what he was. But there was one other question he wanted.
"Still," he turned back to Eragon, emotions brewing across his face, a hurt, a loss. "When you had the control, why not at least come back so that we could understand?" Oromis knew it was his emotions speaking, but he couldn't help it. He was feeling the loss himself, like Murtagh was. It had never come up until now, though, seeing Eragon face to face, which had triggered his emotions and loss of his student to it's highest.
Eragon hesitated. "There are laws. Because of what I am, I'm bound by them. Our kind keep secrecy, and the penalty for breaching that secrecy is to be "killed" or whatever happens to our kind, which is remarkably hard to do. There are very few instances when that secrecy is allowed to be breached, extreme circumstances, such as what we're facing now. No one's supposed to know that we exist. As it is, Jane and Alec's bosses don't like the fact that we're having to expose ourselves. But now it's necessary. This kind of exposure has only been done once before in Alagaesia, and only a few other times on other worlds."
Jane and Alec. So those had to be the names of the ones from the tapestries. And though Oromis didn't understand why secrecy was their law, he knew better than to try to dig deeper, knowing that he may never understand. It was also curious, the mention of other worlds.
Oromis then turned to Murtagh, looking him over to make sure he wasn't hurt. As he evaluated him, he noticed that he looked healthier than before, and he seemed somewhat more emotionally stable, which was a relief. "So, Murtagh had to stay because of this secrecy?" The question was for the both of them.
"Yes," Eragon hesitated, answering instead. "At first. But, things grew more complicated. The Volturi only govern the vampire world. They don't govern the Quileuttes. So, when Emilie ended up imprinting on Murtagh when she first laid eyes on him, suddenly everything changed. He had a right to know my world and by extension, by being bonded to him, so does Thorn."
"Emilie is one of these Qulieuttes?" Oromis was confused. He didn't know what this imprinting was, but he could tell that it had to be something serious in order to change everything. He could ask about it later.
Eragon nodded. "They have their own laws that they abide by, one of which is also secrecy. However, as an imprintee, Murtagh has certain rights. No one can touch him without serious repercussions, not just from Emilie, but from the Quilieuttes. The Volturi recognize this as they have a grudging respect for the Quileuttes as the Quileuttes are one of the few creatures that can actually match a vampire. That means he has the protection of the Quileutte packs to back him. It's death to anyone who harms him."
Nodding, Oromis did his best to consider what he was told. Murtagh seemed fairly willing now. But he wanted the rider's own words as reassurance. So, turning to the red rider, he asked him, "What do you think of everything?"
"I understand now, as it was explained to me," Murtagh confessed. "When she imprinted, they finally explained to me their world and their laws, so I understand now, including why they maintain the secrecy. In many ways, it's more beneficial to us and our kind than them," and Murtagh had a small smile on his face. But then, he was serious again, eyes distant. "Emilie and I... I can't explain it. But when a Quileutte meets the one they're meant to spend their life with, they imprint. It's involuntary. As a result, there's a change in the imprintee as well. I... can't get her out of my head. She's a match for me."
The red rider was firm, and Oromis considered the implications. He could tell from Murtagh's expression that he didn't want to leave Emilie. He loved her like he loved Thorn. And Thorn seemed fairly happy that Murtagh had a mate now, as Oromis assumed Emilie was his mate. He just wanted his rider happy.
It was so different from what Oromis was expecting. And yet, these things would add further complications to everything. Nodding, he realized that not only was it a misunderstanding, Murtagh being "kidnapped", a big misunderstanding at that, but things were more complicated than he had ever thought before. And he realized that there was an even bigger headache in store for him.
Looking at Thorn, he saw that Thorn was satisfied and content with the explanation. The red dragon was more relaxed than he'd ever been in a long time. It was dreadfully obvious that none of them were brainwashed. Instead, things were more complicated than Oromis had signed up for. And that part did make Oromis fear the future.
Oromis nodded, and Glaedr grunted, not having the knowledge of how to project his thoughts as sound.
Taking a deep breath, Oromis announced, "Very well. I'm satisfied. Let's go talk to your friends."
Eragon led the way back.
Please review. I've worked hard on this chapter. It would make my day!
