Helzvog stared at the black dragon egg before him.
It had been quite difficult to secure the approval of Arya and Eragon, not because of their reluctance, but because of the magical wards that protected both their dwellings. Therefore, they had to be sought out in person, which was no easy task either, regarding the distance. But eventually, after several weeks, their word was secured, and it was both their wish to present the egg before the Az Sweldn rak Anhûin. Even Ismira had extended her stay in Tronjheim so she might stay to see if the egg would hatch for Helzvog.
All of this created enormous pressure for Helzvog, for there was one thought on his mind. What if the egg didn't hatch? What if the Blödhgarm was right? What if his clan failed the chance they were given?
No he thought, I cannot plague myself with such insecurities. I must have faith in my people, and myself, even if they don't have it for themselves. He thought scolding himself. He continued to stare at the egg, oblivious of the impatience of the others. He tried to see, to sense what would happen after he touched it.
After a while, nothing remained but to touch the egg. He stretched out a finger hesitantly, then, with a deep breath, placed his entire palm on the egg. The loud crack that resonated a few seconds later was greeted by an uproar of cheering from the Az Sweldn rak Anhûin, and, to a lesser degree, the other dwarves. Even King Orik seemed to be satisfied. Blödhgarm was impassive as ever, but Ismira was smiling like a fool, and Vanilor roared at the sky in happiness.
The best feeling in the world for Helzvog was when the gedwëy ignasia was seared onto his palm, and the gentle touch of the newborn dragon's mind reached his own. As he cradled the black hatchling in his hands, Helzvog smiled for the first time in his life, finally having a reason, many reasons, to do so.
The next few days were the happiest Helzvog had ever, spending them with his new life-long companion, the black dragon, as well as Ismira and Vanilor, and sometimes Blödhgarm, who was significantly more kind and respectful towards him now. Helzvog learned much about the dragons and their Riders from Blödhgarm and sometimes Ismira. Even Jourt and Vanilor taught him much.
He was very impatient for the time of his dragon's speech and naming to come, but Blödhgarm insisted that it would take at least 3 months for that to happen. Indeed, Vanilor had first spoken at four months, and had taken a full week to decide on a name. Helzvog hoped he did not have to wait that long to hear his dragon's voice. He spoke to it all the time, every minute of every day, sometimes of his newfound discoveries and sometimes just of everyday life.
Originally, Jourt and Blödhgarm were supposed to fly him and his dragon to Ilirea after a month in Tronjheim, with Ismira following on Vanilor. But message from the egg-carrier that was among the Urgals had asked them to wait, as an interesting situation had arisen among the Urgals that would require Blödhgarm to be in Tronjheim. In addition, there were some political difficulties that Queen Nasuada was dealing with at the moment, and she wanted to finish them before she greeted any new Rider. So Helzvog stayed a month more than was originally planned.
He and Ismira grew very close, becoming great friends. They fantasized about what the dwellings of Arya and Eragon would look like, and what they might be able to teach them.
One day, a question befell Helzvog, one that Ismira was intrigued by as well. They went together to ask Blödhgarm. "Blödhgarm-elda Ismira and I are curious as to what ranks exist within our order and how to ascend through them. Could you enlighten us?"
Blödhgarm considered the question for a moment, and then answered. "There only really exist 3, technically 4, ranks within our order. The first is the one you currently occupy, an Apprentice Rider, still in training, learning our ways. Next is the rank I occupy, as do most. It is the one of Dragon Riders in full, and is what you have come to expect from the tales and stories; we patrol the land, keeping order and peace. Then there is the rank of elders. These are elder Riders who have already experienced much in their time, and form the council of elders that we rely on for judgment and guidance. Currently only three Riders could be considered elders. The first two you know well, for they will be your teachers after me, Eragon and Arya, along with their dragons, Saphira and Fírnen. The third elder…Hmm. In any case the highest rank that can ever be achieved by a Rider is the one currently occupied by Eragon; master Rider, leader of the council of elders. He is the one who makes all of the most important decisions about our order, in consult with the other elders."
Helzvog was still taking in the information when Vanilor asked Ebrithil, I am afraid you have aroused my curiosity too much to be sated. Who is the third elder you spoke of? Blödhgarm did not answer, but Jourt did.
It is Murtagh Morzansson, Rider of Thorn, the ruby red dragon. He left to explore the lands to the north shortly after the end of the black king. He and his dragon have not been heard of since. They were torn apart by the black king, and left to heal their wounds. Eragon has said he will return once they are healed, if they ever are.
Now even Vanilor fell silent to ponder the information they had received. The three discussed the information at length, and Helzvog recounted it to his black dragon.
The day after having their discussion with Blödhgarm and Jourt, trumpets were sounded, and Orik told them that the Urgal Rider had arrived.