Guess what? It's summer, and you know what that means? Updates! Reasonable updates! Time, because I don't have freaking school in my way! At long last!

Disclaimer: I don't own the Inheritance Cycle, quite obviously. I met Paolini, and while he didn't seem like a violent guy, I bet he'd take me out if I started to pretend I did...

Forewarning: If you don't agree with what's about to happen, then I'm sorry, but it's happening. Sorry. Sorta. Not really. Like at all. Oh well.


Chapter 10: A Matter Between Dragons


Murtagh POV

I'm going to attempt it today. Thorn told Murtagh as he shook his wings in preparation. They were on their rock ledge, and Thorn had lit a fire for Murtagh some time ago, and the rider was currently poking at the dying embers with a blackened stick.

Attempting what? Murtagh asked, confused. He looked to his ruby red companion to find that he was facing the Dragon Hold below, watching the buildings that were shaped out of the stone side of the mountain. A few flames flickered in the night, illuminating Eragon's and his companions camp site. Murtagh even spotted the large shape of Saphira, her scales appearing to be dancing in the light of the flames.

I am going to attempt to change my true name. Thorn said simply, startling Murtagh.

You are? And you are sure it'll work? Murtagh asked. Thorn still hadn't revealed to him just what it was that he was going to do, but he had been brooding over some fact for days. Murtagh had never seen the young dragon so focused.

I am as ready now as I will be tomorrow, therefore I shall not delay the inevitable. Thorn reasoned with him as he opened his wings. Are you coming or remaining?

Coming, of course. But to where? Murtagh asked as he clambered onto Thorn's back. He could feel the dragon's tense muscles beneath him as he jumped into the air, wings beating slowly as he ascended down to where Saphira was. The dragoness barred her fangs at him but otherwise ignored him.

Saphira, Thorn called, surprising both Murtagh and Saphira. He was projecting his voice, and Murtagh saw Eragon, Arya, and Chloe Loćien wander out to observe the interaction. They were all tense.

What is it? Saphira replied. Although irritated, she seemed curious to know why he was speaking to her after all of this time.

I wish to challenge you.

Challenge her? Thorn what are you doing! Murtagh exclaimed, but again he was ignored.

Challenge me? Saphira asked with growing interest.

Yes. We have only ever met in battle, unaided by our riders, once before. But we never did conclude who the victor was. Thorn told her, referring to their encounter on Eoam. Saphira let out a rumbling laughter.

And yet here you are, our prisoner. I find that to be a victory on my part. Saphira said. Murtagh could feel Thorn tense again. They had been ordered to become captured, but he didn't think it would be a good idea to let Saphira and Eragon know that. So instead the ruby red dragon shook his head slowly, the gesture prickling away at his pride.

You had Murtagh hostage then. Now I am only asking for a fair fight. You and I, tooth and flame and claw. Unless you are frightened—

Enough! I shall meet you in battle, and I shall win! Saphira roared.

"Saphira wait—" Eragon began, taking a step forward. But he was too late. She had already sprung into the air, hovering as she waited for Thorn.

Off, hatchling. This time I fly alone. Thorn said to his rider.

But Saphira—

It does not matter. Now, Murtagh, His words were not unkind, but determined. And so Murtagh jumped off his back, frowning at the red dragon.

I still don't see how this will help you change your true name. But please, for the love of freedom, be careful.

I shall, hatchling, And with that, Thorn joined Saphira in the sky, angling his wings towards the arena.

"What is he doing?" Eragon demanded as he watched the two dragons disappear into the arena.

"I-I don't know." Murtagh said helplessly. He knew Saphira wasn't going to go easy on Thorn, and he didn't even have any magic to heal him. He felt someone watching him, and he looked up to see Chloe staring at him. She opened her mouth to say something and then thought better of it, and looked away instead. The three riders, Loćien and Arya all stayed where they were, occasionally leaning against the stone walls of the building or sitting on the cold steps as they waited. Finally twin roars filled the night, and they all looked out towards the arena. Jets of fire could be seen flashing and spilling out over to the top of the arena walls, and thunderous growls and roars heard as stone fell as battling dragons crashed into it.

Chloe POV

It was a painful few hours for the red and blue riders, Chloe knew. Both of their dragon's had severed links with them, and it pained them not knowing the well-being of their partners. Every now and then they'd stand, pacing and throwing looks at each other. But this was a matter between dragons, and neither could do anything about it, much less blame each other. She looked down at Loćien. She could actually see the hollow at the base of his neck where she would sit, now that he'd grown larger. Even now she could imagine herself sitting on his strong back as they soared through the wind, arms spre—

"One of the two returns." Arya said suddenly, and Chloe looked up. She strained her eyes in the darkness for a sign of the said dragon. She couldn't see one, until she realized that there was a black hole in the sky where some of the stars weren't visible. She glanced at Eragon and Murtagh, and judging by the relieved expression on the blue rider's features, she guessed it was Saphira who was returning. But the dragoness didn't stop, she flew past them, and into the forest. Eragon appeared confused, and he took off running in her direction. Murtagh stared back out at the arena, searching for his dragon. They were still for a few more moments, until Murtagh cursed and strode off in the direction of the dragon hold, muttering about Thorn's secrecy and stubbornness.

"Did you understand any of that?" Chloe asked as she turned to Arya.

"No, But neither is it my place to. I will retire, and perhaps tomorrow answers will be revealed." Arya said, and with the grace of a princess, she sauntered away.

Who cares if its not your place, aren't you the least bit curious? That had been what Chloe had wanted to say, but of course she didn't. C'mon Loć, time for bed. Chloe said as she turned around on the steps to go to her chambers.

I think we should follow Murtagh.

That's nice but I don't think we should, we both—holy hell you spoke! Chloe whipped around to watch Loćien, who only blinked back at her with his golden eyes. His voice was deep, though not as deep as Thorn's, yet still had a nice near-musical quality to it.

Please, Chloe. I want to go and see Thorn. Loćien said, pawing at the ground until his talons left deep indentations in the dirt.

Loćien you're talking to me! About time to! What took you so long? And you're talking in full sentences. Eragon said that you wouldn't speak in full sentences for a while.

I took as long as I wanted to take. I thought I'd learn as many words as I could first, rather than sound like a human child. Now can we go? Loćien asked, thumping the ground with his tail impatiently.

The first time you speak and it's about following Murtagh? I always thought your first words would be something like, 'Chloe I chose you because you're amazing' or 'we're going to kick mad king ass together' or—

Get over yourself, Chloe. Loćien said with a roll of his eyes. Chloe stared at the white dragon, taken aback.

Listen mister sudden personality, I'm just saying that following Murtagh in the middle of the night to his half-crazy dragon isn't a good idea. And you're starting to sound a bit too much like, well, me!

You just don't want to walk all the way to the arena. But I'm going. And with that, Loćien turned around and crawled away into the direction that Murtagh had gone.

Great, just great. They grow up so fast and then look! They think they can go wherever damn well pleases them. Kids, Chloe thought to herself as she took off after Loćien, who was once more quiet, a fact Chloe pointed out.

What would I say if I didn't have anything to say? Loćien said as he followed Murtagh's scent through the trees.

Good point. Hey Loć?

Yes Chloe?

Why did you pick me, of all people? Why not Arya? She would have been perfect. Loćien mulled over her question as she kept pace with him. She realized that she didn't have as much trouble seeing in the dark as she should have, a slightly disconcerting fact attributed to how being a rider was changing her body.

I chose you because you are different from the people of this land, and so you matched me. I am different than the hatchlings before me. Loćien said slowly.

Different how? Because you were given to me by the Floating Crystal of Eoam? Chloe asked.

I think so, but I can't remember.

You can't remember? Chloe asked, bewildered. How can you not remember?

I don't know. This way, he went this way. Loćien added as he changed his direction slightly.


This thing is massive! Chloe exclaimed as she bent back and craned her neck to see the top of the arena. The round sculpted rock was even larger in person, so large that she could hardly comprehend it's size. No wonder it took so long to get here, she thought, this thing looks a lot closer than it actually is! We must have walked a couple miles!

If this is so large, said Loćien, awe coloring his voice. Then think just how big some of my ancestors must have been.

You're right! Wow. One day you'll be just as huge too! And to think that almost two weeks ago you could wrap yourself on my shoulders! Chloe said.

We need to find an entrance. Murtagh's scent goes off in both directions; he must have backtracked after going the wrong way. I say we go…left. Chloe shrugged.

Your call, and she followed the white dragon. Some twenty minutes later, they finally found an entrance. It was a large arch, fit for a dragon the size of Saphira. Chloe guessed that there were multiple entrances. Chloe took a deep breath and she and Loćien continued forward. Chloe was having a harder time seeing within the walls of the arena, and fortunately Loćien found an ancient torch. After a few tries Chloe was able to summon a small flame. Torch held out in front of her, she was eerily reminded of when she had followed Loćien into the underground tunnel to where the Mosaic had been, and she suppressed a shiver. She was beginning to associate following Loćien with interesting situations, situations she wasn't sure had the best outcomes because they always led to more questions.

There, Loćien suddenly said, and Chloe followed his gaze. She could see a misplaced mass that seemed to glitter occasionally in the faint starlight. Thorn. Although the moon seemed to be hidden tonight, the stars shone even brighter, with an intensity Chloe had only ever seen in Alagaësia. No city lights here, she thought, and for once the thought of home didn't pain her. The dragon and rider continued their trek.

Are you sure that we should be bothering them? Chloe asked hesitantly as they neared. She could see Murtagh's outline, sitting on the ground, legs folded as he watched his dragon.

I am sure that I should speak with Thorn… I think this is a… a matter between dragons.

Murtagh POV

As Murtagh sat, he knew he was on the brim of impatience. Thorn still hadn't said more than an irritated, 'I am fine' as he licked his wounds. He had the impression that even if he had had his magic, Thorn wouldn't have allowed him to heal his wounds. They meant something to him. Out of the corner of his eye Murtagh saw a small light appear in the distance, and he turned to see a small flame. Who was… he caught sight of a white glimmer, and fought the urge to roll his eyes. What are that girl and her hatchling doing here? He thought to himself as he watched their approach. When they were finally only a few meters away, Chloe stopped, but the white dragon continued forward and around Thorn until he reached Thorn's head that rested upon the cobbled arena floor. There he curled up and gazed up at the larger dragon with luminous gold eyes. Gazing into the golden eyes, it occurred to Murtagh that those eyes seemed to belong to a being much older and wise.

Murtagh saw Chloe rock slightly on the balls of her feet and then tentatively step forward until she had reached him. She dropped down to the ground neatly, crossing her legs as he had them, and jamming the torch in the cracks in between the stone floor.

"Hi," she said quietly. Silence, then—

"Is he okay?" Chloe said, her voice even tinier so that the red dragon would not overhear her.

"I wouldn't know. He isn't speaking to me yet."

"Oh," Silence again. Finally his curiosity spilled over.

"Why are you here, Chloe?" Murtagh asked her. He saw her grimace slightly in the firelight at the question.

"Well, Loć said he wanted to see Thorn. As in literally said the words, so I thought I'd listen to him. I think he… admires Thorn or something. I don't see how, seeing as he's never actually spent any time with him." Chloe said, shaking her head. "He's an odd little dragon."

"But why did you come out here?" Murtagh pressed. He wasn't sure why he cared, or if he even cared why. But he was curious. Chloe shrugged slightly as she fingered a pebble on the ground.

"I don't… I guess—and don't take this as a compliment or anything—but I guess that—and even though you work me really, really hard during training, which if I'm being honest I'm still not sure why—"

"Just spit it out, Chloe!"

"Fine. I just guess you're not that bad. I mean you are, but it's bearable. I mean it's not like I want to be your new best friend or anything, cause us, being friends would be weird." Chloe said, sounding oddly flustered. And yet her flustered manner brought a slight smile to his lips.

"Yes, it would be odd. Certainly."

"Exactly. Odd…" Chloe trailed off, though her voice seemed much less certain now. "Huh. Why don't I like you again? I mean other than the obvious that you 'are or aren't evil' thing." Chloe said, causing Murtagh to snort.

"How should I know? We got along fine enough in your world. I just know that you irritate me."

"Oh I irritate you? Please, you secretly love me." Chloe said, causing Murtagh to roll his eyes.

"Yes, and if you're not careful I just might come between you Eragon," he said dryly. Chloe laughed quietly.

"Oh heavens never that! Besides, I am so passed the Eragon thing." Chloe said dismissively.

"Then I suppose I should be careful when I train you. I wouldn't want to catch you thinking about me." Murtagh teased. This time it as Chloe who rolled her eyes.

"You won't have to worry about that, Murtagh."

"I bet I could get you to fall for me," Murtagh said smirking as he watched her. She scoffed, shaking her head.

"Bet you couldn't."

"In Uru'baen there were women who lined up hoping I would ask for their hand in marriage." Murtagh continued.

"And?"

"And what?"

"And were you ever married? Did you leave someone behind?" Chloe asked as she unfolded her legs and stretched out on the ground. The torch was in between them now, and she lay facing him, her head propped up on her elbow. He searched her face for a motive behind her questions, but found none. She was only genuinely curious.

"No," Murtagh finally answered. "I haven't cared about anyone other than Thorn and myself for a long time."

"I envy that about you sometimes." Chloe said, her wistful tone surprising him.

"What do you mean?"

"Well it's easier and less painful if you only care about yourself and your dragon and no one else. I have to worry about Ronnie and my mother. And now I care about Eragon and Saphira. I feel like my family is growing, even when I prefer to be detached." She said with a sigh. "I've always been more solitary than anything. I never had too many friends because I never cared enough to put too much effort into friendships. Eventually they stopped trying too. I always just wanted to take care of Ronnie, and then go to a dance school. That was it. That's not happening now though,"

"What about your father?" Murtagh asked before he could stop himself. Chloe looked at him oddly, but whatever force compelled them to behave civilly also pushed her to speak.

"There isn't much to say. I thought he was dead, but apparently he just came home." An edge crept into her voice.

"You don't want to find him? You could scry him." asked Murtagh, who would give anything to see his mother again. Chloe laughed bitterly.

"See him? If he's even still alive. And if he is, I don't want to see him with a new wife and new children, moved on from us. My mother never did. I-I think I know how the Crystal of Eoam works," Chloe whispered. "You and Eragon wanted to go back home, and it brought you back. My mom and Ronnie wanted to come find my dad, it brought them here. I-I wanted someone who'd understand me, and I got Loćien's egg. I didn't even know I wanted that, but the crystal did. What do you think my dad wanted? Obviously he wanted to come back." Chloe said quietly. Murtagh looked up at her in surprise. He'd had no idea that she'd harbored such thoughts.

Then again, why would I know? Why would I even care to know? He reminded himself.

"Perhaps he had no choice." Murtagh said quietly. He looked away, pretending he hadn't noticed that she was wiping away tears from the corners of her eyes with the sleeve of her tunic.

"Hey Murtagh?"

"Yes princess?" she gave a sniffle of a chuckle at the usage of the teasing nickname.

"Do you have any stories about the stars here? They create different patterns here." Chloe said quietly. "Here look, lie back," she said as she scooted closer to him. Murtagh did as she said, lying on his back so that he could see the night sky.

"So many stars…" Chloe whispered from next to him. Beside them Thorn and Loćien still sat, and Murtagh could sense the occasional thought being passed between them.

"So you were saying, about stories?" he prompted.

"Back home we called them constellations. People of the past created stories around certain constellations, which are formations of stars. They often had a life lesson hidden somewhere, or they were meant to tell the tales of the gods and goddesses, or martyrs and heroes. Here, we can pretend that those stars," Chloe lifted her arm, pointing at a group of stars. "See, it almost looks like a chained woman. Her head is drooped to the side." Chloe said. Murtagh raised an eyebrow.

"Where, pray tell, do you see that? I can see a dog where you're pointing, but not a woman!"

"Oh hush you. You see a woman," Chloe said sternly. "Now, her name was Andromeda. She was a princess of Ethiopia, and a beautiful woman. She knew she was beautiful, and she often bragged about her beauty. Her foolish bragging cost her dearly, for she angered the goddess Juno…" Murtagh decided that Chloe was a good story teller. Her voice gained an appropriately misty quality, and it was smooth as it painted a picture of unfamiliar legends across his mind's eye. It wasn't until much later that he found himself lulled to sleep by her soothing voice.

When Murtagh woke up the next morning, he felt strangely peaceful. He could feel the warm caress of sunshine bathing his body, and even though the ground was hard he felt unusually content.

It's about time that you woke up, Murtagh cracked an eye open to see Thorn's head hovering above him, watching him.

Now you're speaking to me? Murtagh asked as he nudged Thorn away as he sat up. He arched his back, one hand moving to work the knot out of his shoulder that had formed. It's already this late? He added as he saw the position of the sun. It had been a couple of hours since it had risen, he gauged.

It has. You slept peacefully for once, so I thought I'd let you sleep. Interesting how you come to comfort me, and then you end up sleeping next to the human girl, Thorn added. Murtagh started, looking around wildly for Chloe. She's gone. She left early this morning with Loćien. Thorn said, and Murtagh was surprised that Thorn had addressed the white dragon by his name and not 'hatchling'. He didn't sound upset, either. Only teasing.

I'm sorry. I still don't understand it myself. We… had a conversation. Very strange. Best not to mention it again. Murtagh said he stood.

As you wish.

Now tell me about what happened last night, with Saphira. Murtagh urged. Thorn's eyes narrowed slightly.

Very well. Now climb upon my back. I wish to go bathe, and there is a large enough body of water nearby. Thorn said. Murtagh walked around Thorn, wincing as he caught sight of Thorn's wounds.

"Thorn…" he murmured out loud. He could see long slashes across his stomach, and his tail looked as though it had been bitten more than once. Every now and then when he contracted certain muscles, the wounds would gush out more blood.

They are not life threatening. I am proud to say that I inflicted just as much damage to her, if not more. Thorn said, slightly smug.

Then you won your battle? Murtagh asked. Thorn's smugness faded.

No. Now are you going to take all day or can you just get on? The red dragon asked in irritation. Careful not to touch any of Thorn's hot blood, Murtagh climbed into the saddle. With a little more strain than usual, Thorn jumped into the air. He flew closer to the ground than he normally did, and his landing was rougher than most when he landed directly into a small lake just outside the arena.

Thanks, Murtagh muttered as he was dunked under water. He slipped off of Thorn, moving away from the dragon as the water around him grew hot from the blood that poured from his wounds. Again, Murtagh wished he could access his magic.

It was a simple matter of her out maneuvering me, Thorn said after a time. I'm more… I see things differently from most, which is why I should have won. But she… there is something about the manner in which she flies in. She's exceptionally gifted in her aerial maneuvers. Thorn said grimly. Murtagh chuckled slightly.

That would be why I've often said that she is the real threat, not Eragon. He joked. Thorn only growled unhappily as he snaked his head through the water until it rested beside Murtagh on the beach.

There will be other opportunities to change your true name—Murtagh began, but was cut off by Thorn's growling.

But that's just it. I did change it. Thorn lamented, leaving Murtagh to open and shut his mouth several times. You look like a fish out of water, Murtagh. Thorn said impatiently.

I don't know what to say, other than I still don't understand. And you still feel the same… I don't understand what has changed… you feel the same as you did yesterday, to me. Thorn sighed.

I challenged Saphira because I honestly believed that with my intelligence I could still win in battle, with her outmaneuvering me. But I didn't, and then I had to swallow my pride. I admitted that she was the better flier. Thorn said unhappily. Murtagh only stared.

That was it? You had to swallow your pride and admit she was the better flier and your true name changed? Murtagh said in disbelief.

It was harder than you think, Thorn growled. I am—was a very proud dragon. I have learned not to be. Thorn rumbled. Pride is different for a dragon than it is for a human. Dragons in general are very prideful, but I was even more so. You cannot understand the sheer difficulty in admitting to myself that Saphira could outdo me in battle... if I were human, I would be in a tavern drowning my sorrows in mead. Thorn added. Murtagh raised an eyebrow.

That bad?

That bad, yes. Thorn agreed.

Then think to the positive! You have changed your true name! You are... you are free. Murtagh said slowly. Free.

Never free. Thorn said, shaking his head slightly. Never will I be free until your true name has changed and the King is dead. Then, perhaps, I shall be free. Murtagh grinned, reaching a hand and resting it upon Thorn's muzzle.

And yet you cannot deny that today is a victory in your favor. You did well.

Yes... but now I must rest.


Chloe POV

"Where were you last night?" Chloe cringed as she turned to face her mother. She was standing in the doorway of her bedchambers, hands on her hips as she glared at her. Chloe put on her most winning smile.

"Morning mom! Isn't it such a lovely morning? I mean the sunlight, the birds singing-"

"Chloe," Her mother said, her tone a clear warning. Chloe wasn't even sure why she was so upset; she hadn't done anything wrong. But her accusatory tone had immediately set her on the offensive.

"Last night? Why I was here, of course, in the Dragon Hold. Actually, never left." Chloe said offhandedly with another smile. Viviana was not amused.

"Chloe, I mean inside of the Hold, because you most certainly were not in your bed last night."

"Oh, you mean that. Well you know, I went for a walk with Loc..."

"Chloe, I noticed that Murtagh wasn't in his usual perch either." Viviana said sternly. The smile slipped off of Chloe's face, leaving a dumbfounded expression

"You think-I was with Murtagh but I wasn't with Murtgah! Oh my God, ew!" Chloe exclaimed. "It wasn't anything like that! I barely even like him as an acquaintance. There is zero chance of you every having to worry about that." Chloe said confidently. Viviana gazed at her suspiciously.

"Then what were you doing?" Viviana asked. Chloe rolled her eyes.

"Um, didn't you hear the the whole smack down between Thorn and Saphira?" Chloe asked in surprise. Viviana blushed.

"Angela spoke to me about it this morning. Last night I thought I was sleeping through a thunderstorm." she murmured. Chloe snorted.

"Nope. The two battled it out over at the giant arena. Anyway, Loćien wanted to go, so we went." Chloe explained. "He wanted to talk to Thorn." she said, gesturing to Loćien, who was watching the pair with an amused expression.

Good morning, mom. He projected, and Viviana yelped.

"O mio Dio!" she exclaimed, a hand jumping to her heart. "He talked!" she said, turning to Chloe. Chloe laughed.

"Yeah. He started last night."

"And he called me 'mom'." she said, looking at the hatchling in surprise.

"Yeah, that's another thing. Loć's got jokes, apparently." she said with a proud grin as she glanced at the white dragon. Viviana turned hesitantly to Loćien.

"Good morning to you as well, Loćien." she said. He nodded in return, standing on all fours and stretching out his back.

I'm going to get myself a morning meal, he announced.

Alright see you later. Chloe answered as she turned to back to her mother.

"So how exactly would you come up with some sort of ridiculous idea?" Viviana shot her a look.

"How could I not?" she deadpanned. "He's exactly the type of guy you usually go for."

"Mom I never go for guys." Chloe pointed out.

"Well, not in a serious way, no. But you're always attracted to the bad boy type." She said. Chloe rolled her eyes once more.

"Yeah, the ones who wear leather jackets and ride motorcycles, not armor and dragons." she said. "You really don't need to worry." Chloe said.

"Fine. But I happen to like Murtagh."

"Well yeah, because your mothering instinct kicks into overdrive. Can you say messed up childhood? But can we end the awkward conversation? Awesome. I promised Ronnie and Elva I'd take them to the lake today, since it's kinda my morning off." Chloe said.

"Alright, but watch those too!" Viviana called.


After taking Ronnie and Goth Baby as she'd taken to calling Elva, Chloe had met Eragon for their usual sparring. The rider seemed distracted as he blocked their swords.

"What's up, erm, Master?" She asked Eragon as he returned Aiedail to her. She tested the white sword's balance in her hands, and as always, she was satisfied.

"What do you think Thorn's motive was behind challenging Saphira?" Eragon asked. "Because I have been thinking about it all morning and I have not come up with a suitable explanation."

"Motive? I'm pretty sure Thorn just wanted to beat Saphira and be declared winner. I mean, he couldn't of thought that he'd be able to escape with Murtagh, especially not after the oath he gave. And really, aren't dragons like that? Full of pride and all? It probably bothered him that they'd never finished their battle, like he said, and wanted to have it out. I doubt its some grand scheme." Chloe said truthfully. Eragon processed her words for a moment.

"I suppose... Let us spar instead." Eragon didn't sound too convinced, but his swing made her thoughts focus only on their fight.

"You did well today." Eragon praised her as they finished for the day. "I am impressed with the way your training has come. I am certain that you will make a fine warrior soon." He told her with a smile. Chloe grinned at the praise, but inside she was frowning. He'd said warrior, not rider.

Looks like there's still a lot to do, she thought. Loćien sidled up next to her and began chattering about his exercises with Saphira. They'd been studying maneuvers in the air, Saphira coaching Loćien in the theoretical aspect until he could actually fly.

I can't wait until we can go flying together, Chloe said wistfully.

I'm growing as fast as I can! Loćien said reproachfully.

I know you are. Don't worry about it, she told him. he

"Chloe!" She heard Murtagh shout from behind her. Great. They paused their walk, and the red rider nearly barreled into her.

"Whoa, careful!" she exclaimed. "What is it?" she asked, surprised at the excitement present on his features.

"I need to swear you to secrecy." he said promptly. "Both of you," he added, looking down at Loćien. Chloe raised an eyebrow.

"We're listening." she said.

"No, first I need you to swear you won't repeat what I am about to say." he said. She sighed loudly.

"Fine." she racked her mind for the correct words in the Ancient Language and relayed them to Murtagh. He nodded, satisfied, and turned to the white dragon.

I'm not all that interested, if we're being honest. He said lazily.

"Loc!" Chloe exclaimed out loud. "Seriously?" she asked. Loćien gave a dragon's shrug. Frowning at her dragon's sudden aloof behavior, she turned back to Murtagh.

"I'm sure he'll promise not to say anything, right Loćien?" she asked.

I will not. But neither will I make an oath.

Fine then, be that way, Chloe said, taken aback. Murtagh also seemed surprised, but he nodded.

"Very well. I'm helping you with your training, and so you owe me a favor." he said.

"Do I? Because I'm pretty sure you said there was stuff in it for you too." Chloe said dryly. Murtagh chose to ignore that piece of logic.

"I want to change my true name, but I'm not certain as to how," he began.

"So you came to me? Great choice, because I happen to be an expert-no wait, I have no knowledge regarding the subject." She snapped sarcastically. "You know last night when I said I wasn't looking to be best friends, I wasn't lying."

"That isn't what I'm looking to achieve," he assured her, rolling his eyes. "I need you for a different reason. I can't do this with Thorn because as a dragon he views things differently. I require your human perspective."

"For what, exactly?" she asked. After her conversation with her mother, she couldn't help but observe Murtagh with greater scrutiny. His chin length hair was so dark brown she questioned whether it was actually black, and his eyes were a dark stormy grey, fit for his fluctuating temperament. He had high cheekbones and a firm jawline and he was really quite handsome. D-A-M-N damn, Chloe found herself thinking. From behind her Loćien snorted. Shut up, Loć.

"To help me change my true name." he finally said. Chloe only stared at him. She was certain he was telling the truth; something about his expression. And yet, why come to her?

"I came to you because I know you will be honest with me. I can't go to Eragon about this, I refuse to. And so that really doesn't leave anyone else." Silence rolled into long minutes.

"...I guess I could help, although I'm not really sure what it is you want me to do." Chloe told him with a sigh. His face lit up and he took her arm, dragging her off the path and into the forest until they reached a fallen tree where he sat, gesturing for her to do the same.

"I suppose I would start by asking you how to care for people." he said.

"Care for people? You need me to coach you on how to care about people?" She repeated slowly. "How does that help your situation at all? From what I know, you have to change yourself. How is caring for people going to change that?" she asked, skepticism clear on her face.

"Well it's glaringly obvious, isn't it?" Murtagh said impatiently.

"Ahh... no, it really isn't. Please enlighten me." she said, crossing her arms and gesturing for him to speak with an exaggerated flourish of her hand.

"Look, when people care about each other, everything changes. Everything about them changes; the way they speak, interact, and even their actions. When people care for each other, they tend to be selfless and put the well being of others above their own. I think if I could do that my true name would change." he said. Chloe was surprised by the desperate note in his voice, and she glance at Loćien.

Up to you. I'm not having any part in it. The white dragon huffed, wings fluttering self importantly.

Fine then.

"Sure, Murtagh, what's the worst that can happen?"

Famous last words.


I can't wait till we get to the good parts of all of this... sigh. it'll get there. eventually ish. I'm thinking another chapter and then things will start to move fasterrrr. SO REVIEW!