Magic is Force

by PatriotCrusader

In a war-torn galaxy between the Sith Empire and the Galactic Republic, one lonely Force-user must bring balance to the Force. But the Force works in mysterious ways...Our Force-user is transported, by the Force, to the land of Alagaesia. There he must forge his path, make alliances with familiar characters, and bring order to the continent.

24. Chapter 21

Magic is Force: Chapter 22

Karn entered an elegant, two-story study paneled with rows of cedar bookshelves. A wrought-iron staircase wound up to a small balcony with two chairs and a reading table. White lanterns hung along the walls and ceiling so a book could be read anywhere in the room. At the far end of the room, stood behind a large walnut desk.

His skin gleamed like oiled ebony. The dome of his head was shaved bare, but a closely trimmed black beard covered his chin and upper lip. Strong features shadowed his face, and grave, intelligent eyes lurked under his brow. His shoulders were broad and powerful, emphasized by a tapered red vest embroidered with a gold thread and clasped over a rich purple shirt.

Karn followed up behind Eragon, Saphira, and Murtagh as they approached the desk. Two armchairs were placed in a semi-circle in front of it. When the ebony colored man spoke, his voice was strong and confident: "Welcome to Tronjheim, Eragon and Saphira. I am Ajihad. Please, seat yourself."

Eragon slipped into an armchair next to Murtagh, while Saphira settled protectively behind them. Karn came to stand in the middle of the two recliners, resting his arm on the back of Eragon's. Ajihad raised his hand and snapped his fingers. A man stepped out from behind the staircase. He was identical to the bald man beside him. Karn stared at the two of them with surprise, and noticed Eragon and Murtagh stiffen. "Your confusion is understandable; they are twin brothers," said Ajihad with a small smile. "I would tell their names, but they have none."

Saphira hissed with distaste and Karn produced a menacing stare at the two. Ajihad watched the two for a moment, then sat in a high-backed chair behind the desk. The Twins retreated under the stairs and stood impassively beside each other. Ajihad pressed his fingers together as he stared at the three of them. He studied them for a long time with an unwavering gaze.

Karn also studied the man, patiently, wondering what questions he would have in store for them. After what seemed like several minutes, Ajihad lowered his hands and beckoned the Twins. One of them hurried to his side. Ajihad whispered in his ear. The bald man suddenly paled and shook his head vigorously. Ajihad frowned, then nodded as if something had been confirmed. He summoned the second twin to approach and he also quickly walked over. Again, Ajihad whispered in his ear. The second twin looked at him curiously before nodding. Reaching inside the sleeves of his robes, the twin retrieved Karn's lightsabers and handed them over to the Varden leader.

Karn's eyes grew wide seeing that his weapons were only but feet away from him. Ajihad raised an eyebrow as he took each lightsaber in hand and studied them intently. The inevitable was close at hand and Karn could sense it. The man's curiosity was etched across his face. He looked at Murtagh and Karn. "You have placed me in a difficult position by refusing to be examined. The two of you have been allowed into Farthen Dûr because the Twins have sent word to assure me that they can control you and because of your actions on behalf of Eragon and Arya. I understand that there may be things the two of you wish to keep hidden in your mind, but as long as you do, we cannot trust."

"You wouldn't trust me anyway," said Murtagh defiantly.

Ajihad's face darkened as Murtagh spoke, and his eyes flashed dangerously. "Though it's been twenty and three years since it last broke upon my ear… I know that voice." He stood ominously, chest swelling. The twins looked alarmed and put their heads together, whispering frantically. "It came from another man, one more beast than human. Get up."

Murtagh warily complied, his eyes darting between the twins and Ajihad. "Remove your shirt," ordered Ajihad. With a shrug, Murtagh pulled off his tunic. "Now turn around." As he pivoted to the side, light fell upon the scar on his back.

"Murtagh," breathed Ajihad. A grunt of surprise came from Orik. Without warning, Ajihad turned on the Twins and thundered, "Did you know this?"

The Twins bowed their heads. "We discovered his name in Eragon's mind, but we did not suspect that this boy was the son of one as powerful as Morzan. It never occurred – "

"And you didn't tell me?" demanded Ajihad. He raised a hand, forestalling their explanation. "We will discuss this later." He faced Murtagh with a scrutinizing glare. The young man slipped back into his tunic. "First I must untangle this muddle." The man took a deep breath and held it for several seconds before exhaling. Ajihad switched his focus to the Grey Knight, gazing up at him where he stood between Murtagh and Eragon. "And what about you?"

"What about me? Well to be honest, that depends greatly on how much trust you are willing to give me," commented Karn.

"Indeed," replied Ajidad. His gaze were transfixed upon him, searching for something. "But I know not who you are, or where you come from. I do not know if you mean us harm. So the question of whether I trust you depends greatly on how much information you are willing to divulge with us." He stuck a finger out towards him. "You also refused to let the Twins examine your mind. That action, in itself, already puts you under poor consideration."

"Did your 'advisors' also happen to disclose the fact that I swore in the ancient language that I would not bring harm to the Varden?" he exclaimed. His gave a distasteful glare to the Twins, who stand off to the side of Ajihad.

The Varden leader spared a slight glance off to the Twins, his eyebrows furrowing slightly. "No they did not. But you must forgive me, my knowledge of the elven language is quite limited. Please explain." He directed his order with a gesture of his hand, directing it towards Karn.

"Well to begin," Karn began by holding up a single finger, "The ancient language holds truth over dominion across the land of Alagaesia, as Brom once explained to Eragon and I," At the mention of Brom's name, Ajihad's eyes lit up in disbelief. Karn made note of his reaction. "When speaking in the ancient language, it is impossible to speak false. Our intentions, our motives, we are unable to hide them. If we try to speak against what our heart and mind want, we become mute, unable to speak."

"It's true," blurted out Eragon with a nod. "To speak in the ancient language is to speak true of your intentions. We magic-users require a true name of an object and speak our intentions in order to affect it."

Clasping his hands together, index fingers forming an arch, Ajihad contemplated over Karn and Eragon's explanation. For moments, he was silent, until suddenly spoke to the Twins. "Is what they say true?" He emphasized his question by turning his gaze over to the short stature twins.

The two identical men stared at each other with worried looks, before nodding simultaneously. "Yes, what the boys speak of is true," spoke one of the Twins. "A person is unable to hide their true intentions when speaking in the ancient language," spoke the other.

"Enlighten me then," Ajihad spoke with an edge in his voice. "If we are able to determine one's intentions based upon an oath from the ancient language," he paused, "then why are we constantly requiring new conscripts to submit themselves to having their minds examined?"

The color in the Twins' face seemed to flush away, their skin turning white. Their mouths fell agape and seemed to close and open, as if trying to voice unspoken words. They looked at each other, trying to find solace or advice from the other but the two were taken caught dumbstruck.

"And you swore in the ancient language," Ajihad returning back to Karn. "that you would not bring harm to the Varden?"

"Fricai onr eka eddyr, eka weohnata néiat haina du Varden," spoke out Karn, repeating the same words from earlier. "I am a friend, and will not harm the Varden. I am Eragon and Saphira's friend. We've traveled since Yuzac with Brom as our mentor. I'm willing to stand as Murtagh's ally. And I'm willing to stand alongside the Varden in their efforts to restore order in the Empire."

Reclining back into his high-back chair, Ajihad scratched his beard, closing his eyes. For minutes, he remained silent as he pondered. The Twins still possessed ghostly appearances, their faces nearly white as the dead. Eragon, Karn, Saphira, and Murtagh waited in anticipation, waiting for Ajihad's verdict.

As the seconds passed, Karn was beginning to wonder if the man would even respond. However, this questions were put to rest when the man surprised everyone by speaking, "You've put me in a very difficult position," his eyes opened and stared directly at Karn. "If I were to permit you access into Farthen Dûr, I would be risking the Varden's security based upon an oath. An oath that is supposedly not permitted to allow you to lie." Ajihad sat silent for a moment, formulating his thoughts. "We are unable to examine your minds to properly determine your motives, but then again, based upon the evidence brought forth from the Dragon Rider and my advisors, if what they speak is truth, and that one is unable to lie in the ancient language, then I must believe that you do hold no harm towards the Varden."

Karn stood anxiously, he spoke the truth. He had no intentions of harming the Varden. His purpose within Alagaesia was to help Eragon and Saphira with restoring order within the Empire. It was also a promise he would uphold, a wish from Brom on his death bed that he would see come to pass. I just hope Ajihad can see that.

Again, the leader of the Varden remained quiet and only focused on Karn. For several moments, he remained quiet before heaving an expanse of air. "I am taking an awful risk by doing this, but I can see no consequence welcoming you into Farthen Dûr, under the protection of the Varden, with the understanding that your intentions are real – you will not jeopardize us."

Eragon and Murtagh shot forward in their seats, their mouths agape. Expressions of shock gripped the Twins, their eyes wide in disbelief. "You can't do this!" one of the Twins immediately shouted, spit being flung. "This has never been done since the beginning of the Varden's creation. You put us all in peril!"

In one fluid motion, Ajihad had flung himself up from his high-back chair, imposed himself with a sense of authority and command. His size made him an intimidating figure compared to the miniature Twins. The two identical brothers recoiled back as Ajihad delivered a menacing glare and his voice boomed across the room, "The motion to decide whether these individuals join the ranks of the Varden rest upon my shoulders. Not yours!"

"But we are only looking out for what's the best interest and safety of the Varden!" one Twin quickly replied, trying to defend themselves.

"Your advice and concern is noted," Ajihad stopped him off with a wave of his hands. "But you will know your place, the both of you. If the boy truly holds no harm towards the Varden, then I possess no issue or harm no qualms against him."

The second Twin shot an arm out, his index finger pointed towards Murtagh. "And what about him?" he said with a hint of detest in his voice. "Murtagh, son of Morzan, cannot be granted the same priviledge."

The trio, Eragon, Karn, and Murtagh, all spared each other quick glances. Saphira lowered her head next to Eragon's, the two engaging in silent conversations. Ajihad scratched his beard as he took a seat in his high-back chair. His chiseled facial features stood rigid as his eyes focused on Morzan's son.

What are we going to do if he declines Murtagh's acceptance? Eragon's voice echoed through Karn's mind, after the two touched each other's mind.

The only thing we can do is see if we can persuade Ajihad to change his ruling. Replied Karn.

But Murtagh wouldn't dare go against the Varden. Regardless of his past, he's been a loyal companion to us – from Dras Leona, to Gil'ead, across the Hadarac Desert to here.

He's a book that has yet been opened and read, Saphira's voice echoed through Eragon's thoughts. There are parts of his past that he has kept quiet and secret from us. If Ajihad has doubts on the boy, I can understand his position.

What if Murtagh swears in the ancient language, following Karn's example, Eragon said with a hint of hope percolating his thoughts. If he swore in the ancient language without hesitation, Ajihad should believe him as well.

I don't think so. Karn said with some doubt.

Why? He said urgently. Murtagh can do the very same.

Ajihad has taken a gamble on me. Perhaps it's because of our relationship, Eragon, between you, Saphira and me that he has accepted. He has no reason to question me but he possesses little information on me. And perhaps it is because I mentioned Brom. Ajihad seemed surprised when I mentioned his name. He pointed out while waiting impatiently for Ajihad's verdict. He took a second to glance at the man sitting behind his desk, his eyes still trained on Murtagh. Karn even spared Murtagh a glimpse and could see that the young man was tensed, his hands clenched to the arms of the chair. The knuckles on his hands were beginning to turn white from the strain. He has more to fear from Murtagh than me because of his connections. Karn said returning back to Eragon and Saphira. He's Morzan's son which already puts him in a bind. To let the son of Galbatorix's most loyal servant walk free amongst the other members of the Varden, it would probably cause some disunity to occur.

It seems to be a choice of two 'evils.' Saphira stated.

Eragon turned his head and stared into Saphira's giant sapphire eyes, his thoughts confused. What do you mean by that?

Which of the two boys can Ajihad take a gamble on and not risk jeopardizing his position within the Varden, she said blatantly.

Before Eragon could make another comment, Ajihad's voice cut through the room, reverberating off the walls. "I do not believe I can submit you to same treatment because of your history, Murtagh. Your father has left many here in the Varden in sorrow; his wrath has left its mark upon us all. Many here, once they know of your presence, will want to see you hung by your entrails. I cannot take your word based upon an oath. I need more proof than that. Do you still refuse to be probed?"

"Yes," said Murtagh sharply, sitting at the edge of his seat. "I won't let anyone inside my head."

Ajihad leaned on his desk. "There will be unpleasant consequences if you don't. Unless the Twins can certify that you aren't a threat, we cannot give you credence, despite, and perhaps because of, the assistance you have given Eragon and his companion. Without the verification, the people here, dwarf and human alike, will tear you apart. I'll be forced to keep you confined at all times – as much for your protection as for ours. It will only get worse once the dwarf king, Hrothgar, demands custody of you. Don't force yourself into that situation when it can easily be avoided."

Murtagh shook his head stubbornly. "No…even if I were to submit, I would still be treated like a leper and an outcast. All I wish is to leave. If you let me do that peacefully, I'll never reveal your location to the Empire."

"What will happen if you are capture and brought before Galbatorix?" demanded Ajihad. "He will extract every secret from your mind, no matter how strong you may be. Even if you could resist him, how can we trust that you won't rejoin him in the future? I cannot take that chance."

"Will you hold me prisoner forever?" demanded Murtagh, straightening.

"No," said Ajihad, "only until you let yourself be examined. If you are found trustworthy, the Twins will remove all knowledge of Farthen Dûr's location from your mind before you leave. We won't risk someone with those memories falling into Galbatorix's hands. What is it to be, Murtagh? Decide quickly or else the path will be chosen for you."

Karn stared down at the young man for a long moment, some part of him hoping that Murtagh would just give in to Ajihad's demands. Finally Murtagh spoke, the words slow and distinct. "My mind is the one sanctuary that has not been stolen from me. Men have tried to breach it before, but I've learned to defend it vigorously, for I am only safe with my innermost thoughts. You have asked for the one thing I cannot give, least of all to those two." He gestured at the Twins. "Do with me what you will, but know this: death will take me before I'll expose myself to their probing."

Admiration glinted in Ajihad's eyes. "I'm not surprised by your choice, though I had hoped otherwise…Guards!" The cedar door slammed open as warriors rushed in, weapons ready. Ajihad had pointed at Murtagh and commanded, "Take him to a windowless room and bar the door securely. Post six men by the entrance and allow no one inside until I come to see him. Do not speak to him, either."

The warriors surrounded Murtagh, watching him suspiciously. As they left the study, Karn caught Eragon silently mouthing to Murtagh, "I'm sorry." Murtagh shrugged, then stared forward resolutely. He vanished into the hallway with the men. The sound of their feet faded into silence.

Ajihad said abruptly, "I want everyone out of the room but Eragon, his dragon and companion. Now!"

Bowing, the Twins departed, but Orik said, "Sir, the king will want to know of Murtagh. And there is still the matter of my insubordination…"

Ajihad frowned, then waved his hand. "I will tell Hrothgar myself. As for your actions … wait outside until I call for you. And don't let the Twins get away. I'm not done with them, either."

"Very well," said Orik, inclining his head. He closed the door with a solid thump.

After a long silence, Ajihad sat with a tired sigh. He ran a hand over his face and stared at the ceiling. Karn waited patiently for him to speak. He took a seat in Murtagh's chair, letting his back sink into the recliner. When nothing was forthcoming, Eragon blurted, "Is Arya all right?"

Ajihad looked down at Eragon and said gravely, "No…but the healers tell me she will recover. I've received word that one of our best spellcasters has returned to the Varden and she is overseeing Arya's recovery. Aryya wouldn't have lived if not for you. For that that you have the Varden's deepest thanks."

A breath of relief escaped past Eragon's lips as he slightly relaxed into the chair. He stretched out and placed a hand on Saphira's side, "That is some relief."

"Indeed," Ajihad said as he rose from his high-backed chair. He traversed the perimeter of the walnut desk, coming to stand in front of Eragon, Saphira, and Karn. Leaning his arms behind him, Ajihad rested himself against the front of the writing desk, and reached around himself grabbing hold of Karn's lightsabers.

Again, anxiety gripped at Karn's innards. No other person, besides Eragon, Brom, and Meetra, knew what Karn's weapons were. Let alone ever seeing a blade of its make before. If Ajihad spent a great deal of time examining it, he would demand to know where it was made, who made it, and how it was created. Karn couldn't make up something so simple to explain such complex tools. Ajihad is a smart man, he'd know that my lightsabers aren't made from elves, dwarves, or humans of this world. He'd ask too many questions. Questions which I don't think I can answer. He would begin to have his suspicions about me – on top of those he already possesses.

"Tell me boy," Ajihad said glancing at Karn square in the eye, "what's your name?"

"Karn," he said as he glanced up at the ebony many. He took a glance at his weapons, desperately hoping that Ajihad would not bring up questions about his lightsabers.

"Karn? That's an interesting name. Where are you from Karn?" Ajihad rolled his lightsabers in his hand, examining the craftsmanship.

The sudden surprise of simple questions took Karn aback slightly. "I'm from Surda; Petrøvya to be more specific."

"And how is it you came to be in Eragon's company?" Ajihad asked, pulling his attention away from the lightsabers, and focused on the Grey Knight. His dark colored-irises stared him down trying to see through him.

Karn spared Eragon a quick glance, hoping to seek some sort of assistance. Eragon possessed a slight worried expression on his face; he too knew the situation that Karn was in. His thoughts travelled between their mental connection. Make up something, Karn.

Thinking quickly, Karn formed a false tale of his first encounter with Eragon. "Like I said, I'm from the small fishing city of Petrøvya. Several years ago, I wanted to go out and see the world. I had grown tired of Petrøvya and would have liked to see the wonders of Alagaesia. To acquire new knowledge. I decided to venture into the Empire and made trips to cities such as Belatona, Daret, and Dras-Leona. I had headed up north and found myself in a small town of Yazuac where a raiding party of Urgals ransacked it. There, I met up with Eragon and Brom. They allowed me to stay in their company since then."

"Where is Brom now? When you mentioned his name, I was hoping that he would be with you." He asked turning his head to Eragon and Saphira. A grave expression crossed Eragon's face, and the color in Saphira's scales darkened. The memories of Brom's death still burned in Karn's skull as he remembered the promise he gave to the old man – to protect his son.

"Brom, he's –" Eragon hesitated slightly, fighting off against waves of grief, "He's dead."

Wide eyed, Ajihad stared at Eragon for a solid minute before replying, "What happened?"

"We were tracking the Ra'zac across the northern part of the Empire. We learned that the Ra'zac were hiding out in Dras-Leona and set out to find them. In the city, we were caught by them but managed to escape off into the wilderness. That night the Ra'zac attacked us with their flying steeds." A glimmer of enlightenment shown in Ajihad's eyes as he listened in on the newfound piece of information, relating to the Raz'ac. "During the attack, Brom sacrificed himself to save me by throwing himself between me and an ominous dagger. The Raz'ac's dagger pierced his lungs and he died the following night."

The hall grew silent as neither Ajihad, Saphira, Eragon, or Karn made an attempt to speak. The air was thick with sorrow. Even after weeks had passed, Brom's death still stung at Eragon, Saphira, and the Grey Knight. A minute had passed before Ajihad spoke, "My condolences. Brom was a good man, a brave warrior, and an insightful teacher. He was the one that founded the Varden, to topple Galbatorix and his Empire. I will personally see to it that Brom's work does not fall to pieces."

"That gives us relief to hear," Karn stated. "Brom meant a lot to us, and apparently to a lot more people."

"He did." Ajihad paused. "Answer me this, how did you come to find Murtagh?"

"We didn't," interjected Eragon. "He found us."

One of Ajihad's eyebrows raised with intrigue, "Oh? Is that so? Explain."

"During the Raz'ac ambush, Murtagh had stumbled across us and assisted in driving the Ra'zac away. He has been a great help to us, and a loyal companion. What will become of him?" Eragon suddenly switched questions. Karn could sense his worry for the young man, and to be honest he was anxious himself.

Drawing himself up as if he were commanding an army, Ajihad spoke with a deep voice, "Morzan's son will be held prisoner. Unless he is willing to submit himself to our mind probes and divulge information, he will be held in captivity until further notice."

"I see," Eragon spoke quickly dropping the conversation.

"And what of Arya?" Eragon quickly perked up at the mention of the elf-maidens name. "How did you find her?"

"You're asking a lot of questions," Karn exclaimed.

"I'm simply trying to grasp the events that occurred during your travels, so for at the moment please indulge my curiosity," said Ajihad, forming a steeple with his fingers. "Please, I wish to hear your tale young Rider – how you found your dragon and everything that's happened since."

Karn looked over to Eragon to see him rigid, as if reluctant to tell his experiences. His brown eyes met Karn's, and for a moment the two were unsure whether if they should. Go on, urged Saphira gently, her voice rippling through their mental touch. Shifting in his chair, becoming comfortable, Eragon began his story. From Karn's perspective, the young Rider seemed awkward to discuss the details but he seemed to grow more relaxed as he proceeded. On several occasions, Eragon had to rely on Saphira or Karn's memory to clarify things. Ajihad listened intently the entire time.

Karn listened to Eragon talk for hours, often pausing between his words. He told Teirm, though he kept Meetra's fortunetelling and Karn's spectacle at the keep to himself, how they had managed to find the Ra'zac. He also related his dreams of Arya. When he came to Gil'ead and mentioned the Shade, Ajihad's face hardened, and he leaned back with veiled eyes.

The blood-red eyes of the shade, Durza, turned Karn's blood cold. Tremors raced up his spine as he remembered his malicious voice. Ajihad stood from leaning on the desk, clasped his hands behind his back and approached one of the bookshelves. After a time he returned to the desk. "Can you describe him?"

"The shade?" Eragon asked. He nodded after thinking for a moment. "He was tall, thin, and very pale, with red eyes and hair. He was dressed in all black."

"What of his sword-did you see it?" asked Ajihad intensely. "Did it have a long scratch on the blade?"

Eragon was about to answer, his mouth open ajar, but he suddenly recoiled and a perplexed look appeared on his face. "I-I don't recall the blade ever having a scratch."

At the mention of the etched blade, Karn suddenly remembered the pain of being stabbed in the shoulder by Durza. On impulse, he gripped his shoulder and he saw the events of that night in Gil'ead unfold before him. As Karn knelt upon the cold banquet hall floor with Durza's blade impaled into his flesh, his maniacal laughter echoed across the room. Blood profusely fell from Karn's wound as Durza pushed it farther. In his struggle to maintain consciousness, Karn gazed down at the blade and saw a long thin scratch etched along the blood-groove progressing up to the cross-guard.

"Yes there was," Karn said, remembering the blade. "I remember it all too well from dueling Durza."

"You?" exclaimed Ajihad, staring at Karn with a stunned expression. "You fought the shade?" He quickly exchanged glances between the Grey Knight and Dragon Rider. "I was under the impression that it was Eragon that fought the shade."

"I never fought Durza," stated Eragon. "I was too weak from being imprisoned to fight. Between the four of us, Murtagh, Arya, Karn, and myself, Karn was the only one capable of fighting."

"Against a shade?" Ajihad said with some mockery. "Only Dragon Riders and Elves are beings capable enough to kill a shade." The man began to pace back and forth in front of the desk before coming to a sudden stop, clenching his fists. "Fortune smiled upon me just enough to put a scratch on that shade's blade." He spoke with a grime smile. "What happened to Durza then? Were you fortunate enough to cut out his heart?"

Karn shook his head, "No. I struck him in the abdomen and he disappeared into a cloud of mist."

"Can you confirm this, Eragon?" Ajihad asked coming to stand but feet away from the Rider.

"No, I can't," Eragon said, his eyes furrowed inwardly at the question. "Saphira flew Murtagh, Arya, and I away from Gil'ead. Four people would have been too much for Saphira to carry – Karn volunteered to stay behind."

"I see," he paused for a moment. "I'm still shocked that you were even able to stand up against that accursed creature. You must possess some extraordinary skill."

"Perhaps," Karn said with a shrug but attempted to avoid Ajihad's statement.

"Durza is one of the most vicious and cunning fiends to ever stalk this land. He is the perfect servant for Galbatorix and a dangerous enemy for us…Except for one other."

Whipping his head up so it faced directly at Ajihad, Eragon spoke quickly with shock, "What do you mean 'except for one other?' Is there another shade that Galbatorix has under his control?" Karn could sense Eragon and Saphira's fear of Ajihad's words. In actuality, he was feeling a same set of emotions as well.

Ajihad shook his head in disagreement. "No, my reports say he is not. But this man, whatever he is, is perhaps stronger and more sinister than Durza."

"How could someone possess a level of malice far greater than a shade?" Eragon spoke, speaking on behalf of Saphira.

Again, Ajihad shook his head in obliviousness, "I'm not sure myself."

"Perhaps you should go into detail about this servant of Galbatorix," suggested Karn. He clamped his hands together, imagining another being as cruel and ferocious as Durza. It hardly seemed possible for there to be someone just like him, unless it was another shade.

Ajihad produced an inquisitive stare as Karn made the suggestion and waited a moment before continuing. "Based on reports gathered from our spies, about four months ago, a stranger stormed Galbatorix's castle in Uru'baen." Eragon, Saphira, and Karn grew wide-eyed at the thought of a person attacking Uru'baen – it was impregnable. In addition, a person would have to be insane to directly attack Galbatorix in his home. "Moments later, a massive quake rocks the citadel and the front entry of the building explodes. Two people emerge from the entryway and dash into the courtyard. The first figure was Durza with his sword drawn. The second figure was the stranger that rushed in. He was clad in black robes and pieces of armor layered on top of it. He was imposing in size and looked down onto the shade. His hair was the color of ash and his skin was ghostly pale. One prominent feature, that my spies tell me, is the man's eyes. They glowed as if they were one fire - shades of fiery red-rimmed yellow irises." Ajihad paused for a moment. "Durza and this stranger ignite into a violent duel outside the castle. At the strager's disposal was a weapon my spies had never before seen. He carried a foot long metal cylinder, with a creature's tooth attached to the end of it, and at the opposite end a three foot column of red light appeared. The stranger's weapon cut through an object that it touched, including several guards that went to assist Durza."

Karn sat at the edge of his seat, focused intently on Ajihad's words. His body began to shake as tremors raced up from his feet to his hands. The words from Durza's duel finally came to the front of Karn's memories.

"It's interesting, that weapon of yours…" the Shade said as he stared at the lightsaber. I've never seen anything like it before…except for one other time."

"W-what?" Karn said weakly. The Shade glared at him with his piercing blood red eyes. "What do you not understand? … I'm surprised to see that there is another person who possesses a similar sword…if that is what it can be called."

"What do you mean 'another person'?"

Durza produced a triumphant laugh, "Seeing as how your life is only but minutes away from ending, I'll indulge you human. Several months ago, a man garbed in black armor appeared in Uru'baen. On him was a metal cylinder with a creature's claw at the end of it. When he attacked the King's soldiers, a red beam of light came forth from the metal rod – it cut through the soldiers with little resistance. At first he appeared to be a mere human but when I engaged him he used magic, the likes of which I had never seen before. The sky gave birth to lightning and the man held it in the palm of his hands…"

As Ajihad spoke, Eragon and Saphira's mind swarmed Karn's consciousness. What is he talking about Karn? Eragon spoke frantically. From what it sounds like, there's another person here in Alagaesia that possesses a lightsaber, like you.

Is it possible that there is another person from your world, here, in Alagaesia? Questioned Saphira.

Karn fought off the tremors as he formulated the possibility. There is one other individual he knew that fit that description. But it seemed entirely impossible for that to happen. … I don't know, was all the words Karn could develop at the moment. He continued to think of the chance that this person was in fact that same individual he fought before coming to Alagaesia. The same person that possessed similar eyes and weapon. As the seconds passed and Karn continued to analyze the situation, the prospect began to seem more possible. I was able to be here… Meetra was able to be here…Who's to stay that 'he' isn't. The abrupt thought that this man was here doubled the tremors traversing Karn's body and fear gripped him.

You know this person, don't you Karn? Saphira's voice echoed in his mind. Her curiosity and worry rippled across his consciousness along with Eragon's. The Dragon and Rider were concerned for Karn has he quickly began to show his worry.

As the memories of the man crossed his mind, Karn remembered the events that transpired after his fight when being transported into Alagaesia. The mysterious voice from months passed resonated. You who have traveled from another world, protect Alagaesia in its darkest hour. Defend it against those, of this world and beyond, who seek to destroy it.

In his time becoming a Grey Knight, Karn was always told not to believe in coincidence. Ajihad and Durza's description of this stranger and the mysterious voice revealed the horrific truth. A Sith is here in Alagaesia, Karn finally stated. His fear gripped immensely. He gripped his hands together, squeezing them tight, and a grimace appeared on Karn's face.

Through his connection, he could sense the alarm in Saphira and Eragon emerge. Questions started forming in their minds, trying to desperately find an answer. What do we do? Questioned Eragon first. He gazed at Karn with a panicked look, he too nearly at the edge of his seat. Saphira's giant head came down right alongside Eragon's her sapphire eye's gazing down at him.

Before Karn could begin to answer Eragon, Ajihad spoke, this time with a harsh questioning tone. "It seems quite a coincidence that a stranger, more importantly a human, was able to stand on par with Durza and just so happens to bear the same attire as you do, Karn. And more importantly," Ajihad slammed the lightsabers onto the writing desk, his voice roaring out across the room, "you possess the same weapon he does!"

The Grey Knight withdrew from his inwardly thoughts and grew attentive to Ajihad. The words he spoke were an accusation. He was claiming Karn to be Sith, Galbatorix's servant. "I'm not the person you speak of!" he quickly replied.

"Why do you refuse to let the Twin's examine your mind then?" Ajihad exclaimed. "Is it because you do not wish to have your ties to Galbatorix brought to light? To let us see that you mean the Varden harm?"

"This is ridiculous!" Karn shouted and quickly stood up from the sitting chair, coming up to full height before Ajihad. "I just swore in the ancient language that I meant the Varden no harm. You got proof from Eragon and the Twins!" He pointed at the Varden Leader. "I've been in Eragon and Saphira's presence for the past four months. I would have been with them when that stranger attacked Uru'baen!"

"Explain to me then," Ajihad demanded coming up but inches away from Karn. He stood just a few inches taller than Karn, imposing a sense of intimidation. "How is it that you and this stranger seem so fairly similar?"

"I can't," Karn replied. "But I'm not the man you speak of." He couldn't explain the fact that he was not from Alagaesia, from a different world. His secret of being a Force-user had to be kept quiet. Not only his secret, but also Meetra's had to be kept hidden.

"If I know any better," Ajihad stated, "I would say that this new servant of Galbatorix and you are one and the same." He poked Karn in the chest, he voice becoming fierce. "I order you to explain yourself to me. If you do not, I will be forced to throw you in irons and put into custody."

Just tell him! Eragon shouted out through their mental link. Just tell him who you are. Explain to him that you're not from this world.

I can't! Karn replied back. He refused to divulge such private and serious information to another except for those he trusted.

You will be locked away, Karn. Saphira pointed out. All Ajihad wants is the truth. Tell him your secret and he shall see reason.

Unable to contain himself and no longer thinking of the consequences, Karn swiveled on the spot and shouted, "It's not my secret to reveal!"

The room went deathly quiet as Eragon sat with a shocked expression on his face. Ajihad too stood with a slightly confused look. Emotionally drained, Karn collapsed onto the sitting chair, a hand placed over his eyes as he struggled to decide what to do next.

Ajihad was the first to break the silence, "What do you mean that it's not 'your' secret to tell?"

For minutes, Karn sat quietly as he evaluated his options. He could tell Ajihad his identity or keep it hidden, along with Meetra's. However if he kept it hidden, Ajihad would have him taken as a prisoner, like Murtagh until further notice. Karn felt lost, unsure where to proceed – unsure whether if what he was doing was right or wrong.

As the minutes passed by, Karn was still apprehensive at revealing his identity. His entire being would have to be laid out before Ajihad, something that he was very adamant on not doing. He would have to reveal his childhood, his mother and brother, and his training as a Grey Knight. What am I supposed to do? He hopelessly thought to himself.

Karn sat sulking over the idea when a slight tug occurred within his heart. A familiar presence was drawing closer and closer with every passing second. Karn instantly recognized the presence and his attention focused on where it was coming from: the door to the study. Beyond the door, he felt a presence he had longed to feel again, a person he had hoped be with again. The only other person in Alagaesia that truly knew him.

A loud series of knocks echoed across the room as someone pounded on the doors outside. Ajihad spoke out across the room, "Enter."

The massive cedar door swung open as the hinges creaked due to the strain of the weight. As the door came fully open, a guard walked in followed by Meetra. She had yet change out of her traveling garb, still dressed in her emerald green blouse and skirt. Her hair was unkempt and seemed wavier than normal. Her amber eyes possessed dark lines underneath, showing that she was tired. But she still walked with dignity like that of any noblewoman.

Ajihad was surprised as Meetra approached them, he spoke across the room as they approached, "Thank guard, you may go now." The guard inclined his head and proceeded back out the way he came, closing the cedar door behind him. Meetra came to stand between the two seating where Karn and Eragon sat, placing her hands on her hips.

"Angela, it's been some time." Ajihad stated.

"Indeed it has," Meetra replied with a hint of irritability in her voice. Her exhaustion was showing. Karn realized that she must have been healing Arya all this time.

"How is Arya's condition?" Ajihad spoke. Eragon twisted in his chair to get a better view on Meetra. Karn could sense the boy's worry for the elf, he had been worried for most of the time since they came to Farthen Dûr.

With an exhausted sigh Meetra spoke, "Arya will make a full recovery. I managed to apply the antidote to her just in time before the poison could take her life. She is currently sleeping right now, and I recommend that she continues to sleep for some time." She shook her head in disgust. "She's been through quite an ordeal, Ajihad. I'm surprised she was able to manage this long."

"As am I," Ajihad commented. "You did good work, Angela. The Varden thanks you on your behalf."

"I don't need your praise," she stated while making a gesture with her hand. "I simply came to inform you of her condition before I retreated to my quarters."

"Do as you wish, I have pressing matters to return to."

"What sort of matters would those be?" Meetra said with a hint of curiosity in her voice.

Ajihad produced an intimidating glare at Karn before speaking, "I have reason to believe that Karn is a servant of Galbatorix."

A quick burst of laughter escaped from Meetra as she struggled to maintain composure, wrapping her arm around her waist. Karn, Eragon, including Ajihad were surprised at her action.

"What's so humorous," Ajihad demanded.

"Ajihad, you must be mad to believe that Karn is a servant to Galbatorix," she exclaimed. "He's been in the presence of me or Eragon. How could you possibly say that Karn works for that tyrant?

Over the next several minutes, Ajihad retold the reports of the stranger assaulting Uru'baen. As he gave the man's description – his clothing, facial features - and about his weapon, Meetra's eyes suddenly grew wide in surprise.

"Karn refused to explain himself, stating that "it is not his secret to reveal." Ajihad finished off, returning to lean against the writing desk.

Meetra came beside Karn and placed a hand on his shoulder. She gazed down at him with compassionate eyes before speaking out. "Karn is not the man your spies reported about, Aijhad."

"How do you know?" Ajihad probed.

"Because," she paused returning to gaze at Karn one last time. She produced a smile and slightly squeezed his arm. "The man you speak of is a Sith."

Karn quickly bolted out of his seat, alarmed that Meetra revealed the truth about the stranger. "What are you doing?" Karn spoke out in apprehension. Eragon stared at the two confused as to what was going on.

"What is this 'Sith', Angela?" Explain yourself this instant.

"I shall, Ajihad," complied Meetra. "However, it is not Karn's secret that he is unable to reveal." She went over to stand alongside Karn, and placed a hand on his, squeezing it in a sign of comfort.

"What are you doing?" Karn whispered. "Why are you doing this? I thought we were going to keep it a secret."

"It is impossible for us to remain hidden forever, Karn," she whispered back. "Sooner or later, we would be bound to reveal our identity. It is about time that we make ourselves known to the world, make ourselves known to Galbatorix."

"I'm not sure if I'm ready for this," admitted Karn, revealing his worries and concerns before Meetra.

"Do not fret Karn," she spoke with gently as she caressed the side of his hand with her thumb. "We will face this together. Do you trust me?"

Karn stared into her rich amber-colored eyes and could see that she was sincere in her words. And he knew that her actions would represent the same feelings that she felt. What they both were feeling. Through the Force-bond, Karn could sense Meetra's unease as well, to reveal her secret. But she felt some measure of comfort, because Karn was there with her – to stand beside her as the faced the world together, with their identities made known.

Returning a light squeeze of Meetra's hand, Karn acknowledged her action. "It's our secret," replied Karn to Ajihad. "Angela's and mine."

From his spot on the desk, Ajihad possessed a serious expression as he stared at the two. His eyes bore down on them, and Karn could sense his apprehension and inquisitiveness. "Very well. The both of you, explain this 'secret' of yous."