Chapter 12: Exiles
The sun was just dipping below the horizon as Toravid returned to the dragon keep from his studies. Upon entering, he was greeted by the sight of Brom leaning against Saphira's side, thumbing through his journal on the Prismirian Sea. Brom turned the page to an image depicting a white sandy beach and sparkling teal waters as far as they eye could see.
"Wow." Brom muttered, showing the image to Saphira. "It almost matches your scales. I could just imagine you splashing around in that."
Saphira gave a slight chuckle. Toravid watched Brom turn the page again to an image of people singing and dancing around a bonfire on a beach as the sun set in the distance. Brom gave a sad sigh, staring longingly at the picture before abruptly closing the book and setting it aside.
They look at those books every day… Jarn noted.
I know. Toravid replied.
"Say, Toravid, exactly how far away is Kokamona?" Brom asked curiously.
"From the closest part of Alagaesia, I'd say around 2500 miles of open water. It's right above the equator."
"The equator?" asked Brom?
Toravid nodded. "The world is a sphere, Brom. The equator is an imaginary line that separates the northern hemisphere from the southern hemisphere. Kokamona and the Prismirian Sea sit right above the equator. It's very hot there."
Brom nodded.
"It would be quite a long flight for Saphira to make, in spite of all her endurance training." Toravid added.
Brom nodded once more, sighing in a disappointed manner.
"Is everything alright?" Toravid asked Brom, though he could tell that the young Rider and dragon were both weary, worried, and exhausted.
"Oromis tells me that I'm making excellent progress." Brom replied, tiredly. "I can match the best swordsman the Elves have, but I still don't think its enough."
"Toravid nodded understandingly. "I know."
"If the Forsworn did find some way to breach Du Weldenvarden's wards, there is nothing any of us could do to stop them. I just…" Brom sighed in frustration.
"Get some rest. Oromis has been working you both too hard lately." Toravid replied.
We won't train tomorrow. You both need rest. Jarnunvösk added.
Thank you. Saphira said wearily, closing her eyes.
Toravid, I want to speak to Oromis. Will you come with me? Jarn then asked.
Of course. Toravid said with a smile, grabbing a cloak to protect against the cold night air.
"We're going out for a bit. We'll return shortly." Toravid said to his friends as he climbed into Jarn's saddle.
Brom gave a nod and leaned against Saphira's side, yawning.
Jarn took off into the cold night sky, gliding along under the light of a half moon.
I'm very worried about them, Toravid. Jarnunvösk said to her companion.
"I know, Jarn." Toravid noted, feeling pity for the young pair.
I have a plan, and I'll fill you in on the way… Jarn said.
They arrived at Oromis's hut to find the old elf sitting by a fire. Glaedr was presumably asleep in his den. Jarn landed almost silently and Toravid dismounted.
"What brings you here at this time of night?" the elf inquired, looking up at the pair.
We need to speak. Jarn answered softly, flicking the end of her tail slightly and shuffling her wings. Oromis Elda, do you remember when we first met? I expressed a desire to search for survivors.
"Yes." Oromis replied, eyeing the amethyst dragoness.
I think the time has come. Jarnunvösk said. I have taught Saphira all I can. There is nothing more she can learn from me.
"So you're leaving?" Oromis asked.
"She has a point." Toravid interjected. "None of us are making any real difference just sitting here. Meanwhile the Forsworn grow stronger by the day."
Indeed. And if we don't do something soon, we may never stop them! Jarn said.
"We intend to search the lands beyond Alagaesia." Toravid stated, folding his arms and pacing as he spoke.
"What assurance do we have that anyone fled or escaped?" Oromis asked.
"We don't." Toravid answered. "However, if I were a wild dragon, or a Rider, and I was fortunate enough to survive that cataclysm at Vroengard, I think I'd pick a direction and start flying. But then again, I'm not a dragon. What do you think?"
Oromis sighed. "I see your point."
We have no assurance of what we'll find, but we at least have to try! Exclaimed Jarn.
"Very well." Oromis nodded.
"There is another matter we need to discuss as well." Toravid said. "Your students…"
"What about them?" asked Oromis.
"They're planning to leave." Toravid answered.
"You think they're planning to run away?" Oromis asked.
"I don't think, I know." Toravid explained. "They've been studying my journals daily, and they've been asking the sort of questions people ask when they're planning a trip."
Toravid sighed, and then continued.
"You may not want to hear this, Oromis, but you should consider letting them accompany us on our expedition." He finished.
Have you noticed the changes in Saphira's behavior? Jarn asked Oromis.
"I have." Oromis said quietly with a nod. "She's always been so bold and confident. Lately she seems... detached."
Toravid spoke once more.
"It's easy to forget because she's a dragon, but we must remember that beneath all that, she's a frightened young girl who just had her entire world turned upside down watched her entire race including her family massacred, and has seen everything familiar to her destroyed. And now she feels like a prisoner awaiting execution."
She's fraying from the stress, and Brom is fraying due to their bond. Jarn added.
"They're going to leave with or without your permission, but I think it would mean a lot to them if they could leave with your blessing."
Oromis sighed. "I don't like it."
You have always followed protocol, Oromis. Jarn said. But this is a situation where protocol will not help. Out there, perhaps Brom and Saphira can make a difference.
"They may even learn some new skills." said Toravid. "If they ask to come with me, I'm not going to refuse to let them come. I know you mean well, but we have to be realistic about our situation. Even the mightiest of the order were felled by the enemies we now face. And considering what Galbatorix and his followers have been doing to dragons they capture, I don't blame anyone for wanting to run away. Dying in battle is one thing, but having your soul and mind enslaved? That's a fate worse than death! Running from that doesn't make you a coward."
Oromis bowed his head.
"You're right, both of you." he finally said. "Meet me back her at sunrise, when I've had a chance to speak to Glaedr about the situation. Bring Brom and Saphira with you."
"Thank you." Toravid replied with a nod, and Jarnunvösk bowed to the elf.
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Jarnunvösk landed inside the dragon keep and Toravid dismounted. Brom and Saphira both glanced in their direction.
"I thought you two would be asleep." Toravid said to them.
"I know we should be resting…" Brom sighed.
"Listen, Brom…" Toravid said, sitting down beside the young Rider. "We spoke with Oromis, and he wants to meet with us in the morning. We have something big planned. I think you'll like it."
What is this "big plan"? Saphira inquired.
"You'll see in the morning." Toravid smiled. "It might be best if you both get plenty of rest."
Jarn curled up next to Saphira, and Saphira draped a wing over her friend.
I can hardly wait. Saphira said softly.
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A dense fog blanketed the land as Jarn landed in front of Oromis's hut, accompanied by Saphira. Torovid and Brom dismounted their dragons and approached Oromis, who stood in front of the hut with Glaedr standing stoically beside him.
"Good morning, Oromis Elda." Toravid greeted the elf.
"Good morning, Ebrithil." Brom added.
"Thank you all for coming." Oromis greeted his guests.
He spoke to the group, but his words were directed at his students specifically.
"After a conversation with Toravid and Jarnunvösk, I have made an important decision." Oromis announced.
"We will embark on an expedition to the lands outside Alagaesia to search for surviving dragons and Riders, as well as to locate potential allies."
Toravid saw Brom and Saphira exchange glances, and he could tell they were speaking privately with one another.
"Toravid and Jarnunvösk will be leading this expedition." Oromis then announced. "Brom, Saphira, you will be joining us as well."
Toravid cast a smile in their direction as he saw both their faces light up with glee.
"Wait, all of us?" Brom asked.
We're coming with you. Glaedr's deep voice rumbled.
"Indeed." Oromis said with a slight smile. "Your penchant for getting into trouble necessitates it. We will be meeting new peoples and new races, and the Dragon Riders must be well represented."
When do we set out? Saphira asked, her voice brimming with excitement.
"In a day or so." answered Oromis. "I must gather our supplies and speak to Islanzadi, and Toravid will plan a route for us to take."
Toravid smiled at the young Rider and dragon pair.
"You two are finally getting to go on that grand adventure you've always dreamed of." He said to them.
"I… I can't believe it!" Brom stammered. "Thank you, Toravid!"
"Now you don't have to run off." Toravid replied.
"Well I… we…"
"Don't play dumb, boy. I know you and Saphira were planning to fly the nest." Toravid answered, folding his arms and shaking his head.
We hadn't made up our minds yet! Saphira declared, sounding defensive.
We don't blame you for wanting to leave. Jarnunvösk said calmly. That's part of the reason why we arranged for you to come. I think getting away from this place for a bit could do us all some good.
How long will we be gone? Saphira asked to everyone, but specifically Toravid.
Everyone looked at the old alchemist.
"A few months at the least. A few years at the most. This is going to be a long journey." Toravid answered. "
Saphira nodded.
"Islanzadi will not be happy." Oromis stated. "However, as the last surviving member of the High Council, this is my decision to make for the Dragon Riders."
Toravid chuckled.
"So Brom, between you and me, what's the worst Islanzadi can do if this plan upsets her?" Toravid jokingly asked.
Brom grinned. "Kick us out and tell us not to come back, I suppose."
Her funeral then! Saphira snorted, clearly in better spirits.
"I'm off to get our supplies. "Oromis announced.
The rest of you wait here. Glaedr instructed.
Oromis climbed onto the great gold dragon and took off into the foggy morning sky.
"Come, Brom. I'll show you the route I'm planning." Toravid instructed as he sat cross-legged by the fire.
Brom joined him and Toravid reached into his satchel and removed his map of Alagaesia. Directly beneath it, he placed his open journal on Danthuania with the map showing, and to the left of it, he placed his other journal on Prismiria, again with the map showing. Saphira and Jarnunvösk watched over the shoulders of their companions.
"These maps roughly represent the geographical locations of these places." Toravid explained. He took a stick and pointed to the maps, tracing his route.
"I propose that we that we head east until we reach the Boars, then head south until we reach the sea. From there, we'll have to cross a large expanse of open water to reach Danthuania."
So we're heading for Danthuania? Saphira asked, tilting her head curiously.
Toravid nodded. "Danthuania is the closest landmass not directly connected to Alagaesia. I think putting an ocean between ourselves and the Forsworn would be a safe bet. I say we head for the Blacktalon Territory."
Brom pointed to the region labeled "Blacktalon" on the map of Danthuania.
"I was reading about it." he said.
"Then you know it's remote, isolated, and the best place to find any survivors." Toravid said with a nod. "The gryphons may be willing to help us."
I'm just excited that we'll actually get to see it all in person, not just some images! Exclaimed Saphira, sounding like she could barely contain her excitement.
We'll all need to get some rest. Jarnunvösk reminded everyone. It's going to be a very long flight.
Then it's a good thing you and I have been building up our strength and endurance! Saphira declared. I've been waiting to test my abilities!
Jarnunvösk chuckled, giving a rare smile.
You'll get your chance, I'm sure.
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Her heart felt heavy as she raced along through the blue sky dotted with clouds. Her crimson scales glittered in the warm sunlight, but she felt cold and empty inside.
They deserved it, the two-leggeds! Vervada tried to convince herself. After what they did to those gryphons at Misty River…
But the former explorer and famed queen of the dragons could not take pride in the blood she had spilled in the mountains.
So much pointless death…
She focused on the sky ahead, passing over lush forests, green rolling hills, and sprawling farmlands. Up ahead lay a human city. Vervada made no effort to hide herself. She didn't care if they knew she was there.
This land is my home now. she thought to herself, passing over the city and flying toward the massive expanse of water that lay just beyond it.
From a distance, the Autumn Sea could have been mistaken for an actual sea, stretching in all directions as far as they eye could see, but the stench of salt and brine did not fill the air here. No, the Autumn Sea was a freshwater lake located nearly a mile above sea level rather than a true sea.
Vervada passed over a small fleet of fishing boats, glancing down at the people on the decks who stared up in awe at her majestic form. She would have found it flattering not so long ago, but now she just felt weary and heartsick. She skimmed the surface of the water, flying further and further from land until there was nothing but water all around her. After what seemed like a very long flight, a archipelago of rocky, mountainous islands came into view. She made for the largest one: a rugged, densely forested island with two towering mountain peaks.
The sun was just beginning to set as she crossed the shore, passing over the dense evergreen forests that covered much of the island. As she approached the mountain slopes, a collection of large man-made buildings came into view, built directly onto the cliff faces. The buildings were ancient and crumbling, and overgrown in dense vegetation. No one had lived there for many years, or so it seemed. Vervada descended toward one of the buildings: a large, cavernous structure with a veranda that overlooked the valley. The crimson dragoness flared her wings, slowing herself almost to a stop before touching down on the veranda. A stone archway just past the balcony led into what was once a massive ceremonial hall. The open room was big enough to accommodate a dragon her size, though that was clearly not its intended purpose. Vervada made her way over to a pile of tree branches which she used as a makeshift nest and climbed in, resting her head on her paws.
"The Queen has returned!" exclaimed an excited voice and moments later, a number of gryphons entered the makeshift dragon den.
Vergada glanced up at the curious creatures who quickly surrounded her, their ears perked, eager for news.
A male gryphon, medium brown in color with amber eyes and the tip of his left ear missing, stepped forward.
"What happened?" he inquired.
We won. For now at least. Vervada answered.
"The Dargretians always have more. That's the problem." The gryphon replied.
If more come then I'll deal with them as well! Fireclaw and the Blacktalon Clan assisted me. As did some two-leggeds. Vervada explained.
The gryphon nodded. Several of the others began whispering among themselves.
"Perhaps we should have fought too." The gryphon said somberly.
No, Arkon, the Misty River Clan has suffered enough already.
The gryphon bowed his head.
"But it's our land the invaders have taken." The gryphon called Arkon replied.
You'll get your chance, Arkon. Vervada promised. I always keep my word.
"Everyone, return to your business." Arkon ordered his fellow gryphons, and they all departed.
Before Arkon left, he turned back to the crimson dragoness.
"Would you care to accompany me in fishing tomorrow?" he asked. "Lochspades are difficult and dangerous prey, but for a dragon of your caliber, they should be no problem."
Vervada gave a saint smile.
I would be thrilled. She replied. It's been so long since I've had any sort of joy.
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She saw it all again. Smoke and fire rising all around her. She saw her beloved Iormúngr flying up to challenge Glaerun and his dragon. She saw the glint of Glaerun's Dauthdaert as is sliced through the air and pierced Iormúngr through the chest. She saw her beloved falling from the sky, completely helpless to save him. She heard Thuviel's cries of inconsolable grief. She watched as her fellow dragons were slain left and right at Vroengard, Thuviel fighting alongside her to avenge her mate's death, and at last, slaying Glaerun's dragon with Glaerun's own Dauthdaert. And then, as she lay mortally wounded on the ground, her beloved avenged, she witnessed Thuviel slowly rise to his feet, raise his hands, and chant an unknown spell, before a blinding flash of light and rush of heat engulfed her…
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Vervada opened her eyes to find the first rays of morning shining into her den. The crimson dragoness arose and stretched like a great cat, and made her way down to the rocky shoreline of the island where a band of gryphons had gathered. The birdcats were preparing a large fishing net which they presumably acquired from humans. Several gryphons took to the air, dragging the net through the water. Lacking deer or other large game to hunt, the gryphons were forced to resort to fishing to feed themselves.
Perhaps I could help. Vervada offered.
"What do you know about fishing with nets?" Arkon inquired, joining her on the rocky beach.
Not much. Vervada replied, flicking her tail and watching as the gryphons skimmed the surface of the lake.
"I'll show you how to hunt a lochspade. Come." Arkon instructed, spreading his feathered wings and taking to the sky. Vervada followed the gryphon over the water.
"Lochspades lived in the deepest parts of the Autumn Sea." Arkon explained. "They're very fast, very big, and very aggressive."
As am I! Vervada bugled, happy to see a challenge.
Arkon chuckled. "While I'm certain a living legend such as yourself can make short work of them, they're not to be underestimated. Lochspades are what humans sometimes call 'swordfish'. "
I thought those only lived in salt water! Vervada exclaimed, glancing down at the choppy water below.
"Lochspades are a freshwater variety." Explained Arkon. "There, down below us!"
Vervada gazed down and saw several large sleek shapes moving close to the surface of the water.
"It has long been a rite of passage for members of the Blacktalon Clan to slay a lochspade." Arkon stated. "It's extremely dangerous though. Many gryphons have died trying. If you attack one, the others may try to attack."
I'll just have to be faster!
"Try to coax one away from the others!" Arkon shouted as Vervada entered a dive.
The crimson dragoness leveled off just above the surface of the lake, following the dark shapes directly beneath her. She spotted one to her left and banked hard, skimming her left wingtip through the water. The fish broke off from the rest. Vervada quickly gave chase. The fish darted and weaved and then dived, disappearing into the depths of the lake.
I lost it! hissed the dragoness, rejoining Arkon in the air.
"It'll probably try to rejoin the others. Just give it a minute." The gryphon instructed.
No fish is going to make a fool out of me!
She spotted the fish swimming just below the surface and she made her dive, angling her wings back and picking up speed as she positioned herself just above the lochspade. She extended her paws and with an almighty splash, Vervada dived beneath the surface of the water. The massive fish had no time to react before the dragoness's claws grabbed hold of it. Despite Vervada's size, the fish proved to be surprisingly powerful, thrashing about in her claws. Nevertheless, she quickly forced it back to the surface and spread her wings, launching herself from the water. As water poured from her scales, Vervada tossed the fish into the air and snapped her jaws around it, abruptly ending its struggle.
Arkon screeched with delight.
"Well done, Vervada! Now you won't have to make those long flights back to the mainland to hunt anymore!"
I don't know. I've always preferred deer to fish. Still, it will be nice to not have to fly all that way I suppose.
Once she arrived back at the island, Vervada found a quiet cove to enjoy her meal in solitude. She would glance up at the sky, watching birds and an occasional gryphon fly by.
I'm alone. She told herself. We're all exiles, but I'm the only dragon.
Vervada stood up and walked over to the water's edge to drink. As she gazed into the water, she imagined for the briefest moment that she could see the reflection of her beloved Iormúngr, next to her own reflection, but when she turned her head, she saw nothing beside her. The crimson dragoness gazed down at her lonely reflection in the water once more, a tear dripping from the end of her snout and into the water, sending ripples across the surface of the lake.
My beloved Iormúngr… I miss you so much.
To be continued…