Chapter Eleven: Orders
King Galbatorix was feeling incredibly confidant. His spies had informed him that the Varden planned on laying siege to Belatona and that with two Riders on their side they were extremely confidant. Well King Galbatorix intended to wipe away any smug looks the Varden may be wearing. There was no doubt in Galbatorix's mind that his Black Hand would succeed first time, where Murtagh had deliberately failed him twice.
As Galbatorix congratulated himself on his cleverness his Black Hand arrived, bowing respectfully to the King, he stood with his hands behind his back waiting patiently for his orders. Yes, the King thought, here was a man who had and would continue to serve his King well. Out load he said,
"Black Hand, The Varden marches on Belatona in six days. Lead my troops into battle capture the Rider Eragon and his dragon, Saphira. Do not kill them but you may capture them any way you see fit. Also, try and persuade Oromis and Glaedr to join us, if they refuse kill them."
"Yes, Your Highness." After swearing to fulfil his orders in the Ancient Language, the Black Hand bowed and left the throne room.
You see, Shruikan, how much better he is than Murtagh. Oaths sworn willingly and orders received without question, Galbatorix thought smugly to the large black dragon lounging behind the throne.
I preferred Murtagh. He may only have been a child but he had the nerve and courage to stand up for what he believed in. The boy had great strength, replied Shruikan. Galbatorix simply ignored his dragon. With the Eldunari he now possessed his Black Hand couldn't possibly fail.