Disclaimer: I don't own Kingdom Hearts, the Characters, or any Game, Movie, or TV Show content that are mentioned in this FanFiction story. They belong to their respective owners and I honor respect their great works.
It was morning when Devon, Eragon, and Saphira woke in the room. The two boys stood up and stretched, extending their arms and legs. Saphira lifted her head and blinked to clear her eyes. She sniffed the air, yawned expansively, her rough tongue curling at the tip, then looked at Devon and Eragon with her reptilian eyes.
"Good morning, little ones." Saphira says
"Morning, Saphira." Devon says
Devon twists his body left and right, then stretched his legs a few times, leaning low side-to-side. Once he was finished, the young teen stood up straight and sighed.
"Any idea what time it is?" Devon asks
"I don't know. It's impossible to tell in here. I hope they give us more food than the snacks last night. I'm hungry enough to eat a herd of cows." Eragon says
"Yeah. Same. The Varden can't expect us to fight on an empty stomach." Devon says patting his stomach with his right-hand
"They'll feed you." Saphira says
"Think anyone's even awake yet?" Devon asks
Eragon shrugs his shoulders. Bored, the Keyblade Wielder and Dragon Rider paces around the room. Devon walks up to one of the lanterns and examines it. The lantern was made of a single piece of teardrop-shaped glass, about twice the size of a lemon, filled with a soft blue light that neither wavered nor flickered. Four slim metal ribs wrapped smoothly around the glass, meeting at the top to form a small hook and again at the bottom where they melded together into three graceful legs. The heroes soon heard footsteps outside. The door opened, and Orik enters to greet the two humans and their dragon.
"Ah, good morning to you, lads. And a fine morning to you, Saphira." Orik says
"Morning, Orik. What's up?" Devon says
"Ajihad has requested your presence. He wishes to speak with you. Both you and Saphira." Orik says
"Okay. But do you have any place where we can wash up first?" Devon says
"Ah! You're right. We need to make you both presentable before your meeting with the leader of the Varden. Come. I know just the place." Orik says
Orik exits the room through the doorway and Devon, Eragon, and Saphira follows him out.
The group returned to the corridor they had traversed the day before, passing the statue of a quilled animal. Doors and gates occasionally disturbed the smooth walls but were always closed. Devon and Eragon marveled at the sheer size of the tunnel, which had been mined with incredible skill. The walls, floor, and ceiling were crafted with flawless precision.
Soon, they traverse down a long staircase. Saphira was forced to remain in the tunnel since she couldn't follow due to her size, so she decided to wait until they return. Once they reach the bottom of the stairs, Orik, Devon, and Eragon entered a bare room and the dwarf pointed at three small doors on the far side.
"The pools are through those doors, along with brushes and soap. Leave your clothes here. I'll have new ones waiting when you're out." Orik says
"Uh, Orik. I'd very much like to have these clothes back. They're magic garments and they're very important to me. If you could get them washed..." Devon says
"Say no more, lad. Just leave 'em here, and I'll have them washed, dried, and returned to you as soon as possible." Orik says
"Thank you." Devon says
Orik nods his head and leaves the room. Devon and Eragon went to their own individual pools, closed the doors, and undressed.
Devon walked over to the pool and eased himself into the warm water. The pool was mildly salty, but soothing and calm. The young teen waded forward until the water reached up only to his waist. He found the soap and brushes, then scrubbed himself clean. Afterwards, he floated for a moment with his eyes closed and enjoyed the warmth. After a few minutes, he emerged, dripping, and found a towel, drying himself off.
Devon returned to the bare room and found a fine, white linen shirt, and a pair of breeches. The clothes fit him reasonably well. He saw another bunch of clothes similar to his, only the shirt was brown. Those were most likely for Eragon. Satisfied, the Keyblade Wielder climbed up the stairs and went out into the tunnel. Orik was waiting for him, pipe in hand. Also waiting for him was Saphira as she sat on her haunches, and a dark-skinned woman, who Orik introduced with his right-hand.
"Ah. Devon, I'd like you to meet Lady Nasuada, daughter of Ajihad." Orik says
Devon looks over at Nasuada on his left as she bows her head to him in greeting.
Nasuada was young, dark-skinned woman, about seventeen years old. Tall and slender with brown, almond-shaped eyes, wide lips, round cheekbones, and moss-like hair, styled up in elaborate braids and curls.
She wore a velvet, wine red dress, which was elegantly cut. A jeweled dagger, worn with use, hung from her waist in a tooled leather sheath.
"Greetings, Keyblade Wielder. It's an honor to make your acquaintance." Nasuada says
Devon bows his head in respect.
"A pleasure to meet you, Lady Nasuada." Devon says
"My father asked me to bring you and the Dragon Rider to him." Nasuada says
"Well, we're just waiting on Eragon. So, until he's ready-" Devon says
The group hears footsteps coming from the stairs behind them, interrupting Devon, and look back to see Eragon rising up the stairs to meet them, wearing his new linen shirt and breeches.
"Oh, here he is." Devon says pointing to Eragon with his right-hand
"Eragon, this is Lady Nasuada. Ajihad's daughter." Orik says
Nasuada bows her head in greeting and Eragon returns the bow.
"A pleasure to meet you." Eragon says
"Well, let's not keep Ajihad waiting. Lead the way." Devon says
Now ready to see Ajihad, Devon, Eragon, and Saphira followed Orik and Nasuada as they led them through the caves. For nearly an hour, they had walked through the tunnels, never straying nor turning.
"So, how's Arya?" Devon asks
"Arya has responded well to our healers. She has recovered swiftly, as all elves do. Her strength is formidable. My father, Hrogthar, and the healers spent much time with Arya, learning all that occurred during her imprisonment in Gil'ead." Nasuada says
"Do you know what she was poisoned with?" Devon asks
"It was the Skilna Bragh, a rare poison that would kill a victim in mere hours. Because she was strong in magic, Arya was able to endure effects of the poison, but any longer and she would have been beyond the aid of our healers. Only Tunivor's Nectar can cure such a deadly poison. Fortunately, we have the Fricai Andlát, a variety of mushrooms that grows only in the forests of Du Weldenvarden, and here in Farthen Dûr." Nasuada says
"Good thing we got Arya here just in time." Devon says
"Is she better? When can I see her?" Eragon asks
"She is resting. Only she can answer that." Nasuada says
Eventually, a soft white glow appears ahead of the group, and it increased in strength as they neared it. Now, the heroes could see thick marble pillars laced with rubies and amethysts standing in rows along the walls. Scores of lanterns hung between the pillars. Gold tracery gleamed from the pillars' bases like molten thread. Arching over the ceiling were carved raven heads, beaks open in mid-screech. At the end of the hallway rested two colossal black doors, accented by shimmering silver lines that depicted a seven-pointed crown that spanned both sides.
The heroes stood up to the door and Nasuada pushes it open with her right-hand. The doors swung outward on hidden joints and rays of sunlight streamed into the tunnel, falling on Devon, Eragon and Saphira. The two humans were temporarily blinded, and they blinked and squinted. When their eyes adjusted to the light, Devon and Eragon gazed out in wonder.
They were standing in a massive volcanic crater with the blue sky high above them, the sunlight illuminating the inside of the mountain valley. There were towers made from stone, standing near and along the inner walls of the crater, stretching high almost to the top. A series of terraces were built on the sides of the valley. The lower terraces were used for farmland, while on the upper terraces were homes, made out of wood. There were also a few blacksmith shops on the ground floor where weapons such as swords were crafted and made.
"Welcome to Tronjheim, lads. Look well, for no Keyblade Wielder or Rider has set eyes upon this place for nigh over hundreds of years. The mountain in which we stand is Farthen Dûr, discovered by the father of the dwarves, Korgan, while he tunneled for gold." Orik says
Ajihad and Hrogthar stood outside near the entrance, waiting for the heroes as they came out.
"Devon, Eragon, Saphira, good to see you." Ajihad says
"Good to see you too, Ajihad." Devon says
"Come. There is much we have to discuss." Ajihad says
Together, the group takes a stroll through the mountain city. Devon and Eragon looked around at all the dwarves and humans that were around them. Every eye, every face was focused on them. And every one of them was silent. They saw children in dirty smocks, hardy men with scarred knuckles, women in homespun dresses, and stout weathered dwarves who fingered their beards. Each of them bore the same taut expression, like an injured animal when a predator is nearby and escape impossible.
"They're afraid." Eragon says
"Why wouldn't they be? There is no retreat from this fight. Nowhere else to hide. Their suspicion has kept us alive all these years. When rumors of the new Dragon Rider and the Keyblade Wielder appeared, we were expecting someone who was more... well..." Ajihad says
"More than us? We heard it before." Eragon says
Devon and Eragon continued gazing around at the crowd. Dwarves greatly outnumbered humans, but the humans were hard, tough people. The men had daggers or knives at their waists, many of them armed for war. The women carried themselves proudly, but they seemed to conceal a deep-abiding weariness. The few children and babies stared at Devon and Eragon with large eyes. The heroes felt certain these people had experienced much hardship and that they would do whatever was necessary to defend themselves.
Soon, the crowd was behind them as the group approached another set of colossal doors. The guards posted at the doors opened them up for the group, allowing them entry. They step into a large hall, which had rich tapestries hanging between different levels, embroidered with heroic figures and tumultuous battle scenes, and continued walking. The mile-long hall ended in an arch, flanked by black onyx pillars. Yellow zircons, three times the size of a man capped the dark columns, coruscating piercing gold beams along the hall. Then, the group enters a circular room, which was a nexus for four hallways, including the one they just exited, that divided the caves into quarters. The floor was made of polished carnelian, upon which was etched a hammer girdled by twelve silver pentacles, like on Orik's helm. The four halls were identical, except for the one opposite of the group. To the right and left of that hall were tall arches that opened to descending stairs, which mirrored each other as they curved underground.
The ceiling was capped by a dawn-red star sapphire of monstrous size. The jewel twenty yards across and just as thick. Its face carved to resemble a rose in full bloom, and so skilled with craftmanship the flower almost seemed real. A wide belt of lanterns wrapped around the edge of the sapphire, which cast striated bands of blushing light over everything below. The flashing rays of the star within the gem made it look as if a giant eye gazed down at them.
Devon and Eragon could only gape in wonder. Nothing could've prepared them for this. The city-mountain shamed everything they had seen in the Broddring Empire. Tronjheim was a stunning monument to the dwarves' power and perseverance. Ajihad and Hrogthar led the group across the carnelian floor to the right-hand hallway. They followed it for several hundred feet, then entered a smaller corridor. After four sharp turns, they came to a massive cedar door stained black with age. The two guards stationed nearby pull the doors open, and everyone walked inside.
The group entered a two-story study 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. The stone floor was by an intricate oval rug. At the far end of the room was a walnut desk. Ajihad walked over to a high-backed chair behind the desk while Devon and Eragon slipped into two armchairs. Saphira settled behind them. Hrogthar and Nasuada stood at Ajihad's sides while Orik stood next to Eragon on his left.
"Devon, Eragon, I want to express my gratitude to both of you. Arya is a great ally to the Varden. The poison took a dreadful toll on her, but the healers worked her all through the night. She wouldn't have lived if not for you. For that you have the Varden's deepest thanks." Ajihad says
"How did you know we were coming?" Devon asks
"We have sentinels placed at the entrance of the valley you travelled through, on either side of the Beartooth River. They sent a dove to warn us. Now, I need to know how you and Devon met, how you found Saphira, and everything that's happened since. Some of it I know from the message Brom sent us, but I want to hear it from you, especially the details concerning Brom's death." Ajihad says
Eragon shifted in his chair and began telling his story. Saphira helped him to remember things clearly with occasional comments. Ajihad listened intently the entire time. First, Eragon explained how he and Devon met in Carvahall. How they both fought the Dream Eaters to defend their friend, Horst, and his family. Then, he told Ajihad of Daret but kept Angela's fortunetelling to himself. When he came to Gil'ead and mentioned Durza, Ajihad's face hardened, and he leaned back with veiled eyes. When he finished his narrative, Eragon fell silent, brooding over all that had occurred.
"Brom's death was a terrible loss. He was a close friend of mine and a powerful ally of the Varden. He saved us from destruction many times through his bravery and intelligence. Even now, when he is gone, he provided us with the one thing that can guarantee our success: you. The news of the Urgals' alliance with the Empire is extremely serious. If Galbatorix sent the Urgals and his army to destroy us, the Varden will be hard pressed to survive, even though many of us are protected here at Farthen Dûr. That a Rider, even as one as evil as Galbatorix would consider a pact with such monsters is indeed proof of madness. Then, there is the Shade, Durza. He is one of the most vicious and cunning fiends to ever stalk this land. A perfect servant for Galbatorix and a dangerous enemy for us." Ajihad says
Devon and Eragon remembered vividly of their encounter with Durza in Gil'ead. A moody silence fell over the boys like a foreboding thunderhead.
"There are certain things you should know, Eragon. First is how Saphira's egg appeared in the Spine. Did Brom ever tell you what was done with her egg after he brought it here?" Ajihad says
"No." Eragon says
"When Brom first brought the egg to the Varden, everyone was deeply interested in its fate. We had thought the dragons were exterminated. The dwarves were solely concerned with making sure that the future Rider would be an ally, while the elves and Varden had a more personal stake on the matter. The reason was simple enough: throughout history all the Riders have been either elven or human, the majority being elven. There has never been a dwarf Rider. Because of Galbatorix' betrayals, the elves were reluctant to let any of the Varden handle the egg for fear that the dragon inside would hatch for a human with similar instabilities. It was a challenging situation. It was then that Brom suggested a compromise. He proposed that egg be ferried between the Varden and the elves every year. At each place children would parade past it, and the bearers of the egg would wait to see if the dragon would hatch. If it didn't, they would leave and return to the other group. But if the dragon did hatch, the new Rider's training would be undertaken immediately. For the first year or so, he or she would be instructed here, by Brom. Then the Rider would be taken to the elves to finish the education." Ajihad says
Ajihad paused. His eyes fell somber.
"We waited for well over a decade, but the egg never hatched. The matter pressed from our minds, and we rarely thought about it except to lament the egg's inactivity. Then, we suffered a terrible loss. Arya and the egg disappeared on her return from Tronjheim to the elven city of Osilon. The elves were the first to discover she was missing. They found her steed and guards slain in Du Weldenvarden and a group of slaughtered Urgals nearby. But neither Arya nor the egg was there. When this news reached me, I feared that the Urgals had both, and would soon learn the location of Farthen Dur, and the elves capital Ellesméra, where their queen, Islanzandí lives. Now I understand they were working for the Empire, which is far worse. The attack must've been swift and decisive, else Arya would have escaped. Without warning, and deprived of a place to hide, there was only one thing she could have done: used magic to transport the egg elsewhere." Ajihad says
"She used magic?" Eragon asks
"It was one of the reasons why she was chosen to guard the egg." Ajihad says
Devon listened to the details of how Saphira's egg came into Eragon's possession in the Spine, and honestly, he wasn't surprised. He knew elves who were extremely skilled in magic, like Elrond and Arwen of Rivendell, and Lady Galadriel of Lothlorien from Middle-Earth.
"Ary couldn't have returned it to us, she was too far away, and the elves' realm is warded by arcane barriers that prevent anything from entering their borders through magical means. She must have thought of Brom and, in desperation, sent the egg to Carvahall." Ajihad says
"But instead of going to Brom, Saphira's egg wound up in the Spine where Eragon found it." Devon says
"She must not have time to prepare, and she missed by the margin." Ajihad says
"When the egg and Arya disappeared, did you tell Brom? He said he hadn't heard anything from the Varden." Eragon asks
"We tried to alert him, but I suspect our men were intercepted and killed by the Empire. After that, Brom was traveling with you, and it was impossible to get word out to him. All of this has raised serious questions. How did the Empire know where to ambush Arya, and our messengers to Carvahall? I'm afraid that we have a traitor, or traitors in our midst, despite our efforts to examine people's minds for deceit." Ajihad says
"Why was Arya closer to Palancar Valley than the Varden? Where do the elves really live? Where is this... Ellesméra?" Eragon asks
"The cities of the elves lie far to the north, in the deepest reaches of the endless forests of Du Weldenvarden. Not since the time of the Riders or the Keyblade Wielders has anyone, human or dwarf, walked in their leafy halls. Even I do not know how to find Ellesméra. As for Osilion, based on where Arya disappeared, I suspect it is near the western edge, toward Carvahall. You have obviously received much training from Brom. We best hope that it is enough for the fight ahead." Ajihad says
"Is there anyone that can help finish my training?" Eragon asks
"The elves. They can help complete your training, but I'm afraid there's no time for that." Ajihad says
"You mean the Urgals?" Devon says
"Yes. As I'm sure we already know, the Urgals are scouring the mountain. There's only one reason for the king to send such a force: to forge an army of soldiers and monsters to destroy us. And there's no doubt that Durza is leading this army." Ajihad says
"How long do we have until they find us?" Devon asks
"The Urgals have been scouring Farthen Dûr since yesterday, but they have yet to find a way into the mountain. Many passages are well-hidden, but the Urgals are very determined. It won't be long before they find a way into the caves. And I'm certain that Durza and the king's army are not far behind. I suspect we have until late nightfall to prepare for an attack." Ajihad says
Devon and Eragon sat deep in thought, pondering what they just learned. For the first time since finding Saphira's egg, Eragon felt he understood what was going on around him. At last, he knew where Saphira came from and what might lie in his future.
"So, what can we do until the Urgals get here?" Devon asks
"Take as much time as you need to prepare, but be ready for the fight against the Urgals, Durza, and his army." Ajihad says
Devon, Eragon, and Saphira nod their heads in acknowledgment.
"That reminds me." Ajihad says
Ajihad opened a drawer on his desk and took out a ring. This ring was gold with a sapphire jewel on it. Inscribed and carved on the face of the sapphire was a strange symbol.
"This is Brom's ring, Aren, which he sent as confirmation of his identity. I kept it for when he returned to Tronjheim. Now that he's dead, I suppose it belongs to you, Eragon, and I'm sure he would have wanted you to have it." Ajihad says
Eragon accepted the ring with reverence. He fit the ring onto his right index-finger and admired how it caught the light.
"I... I am honored." Eragon says
Ajihad nodded, then pushed back his chair and stood. He faced Saphira and spoke to her.
"Do not think that I have forgotten you, O mighty dragon. I have said these things as much for your benefit as for Eragon's. It is even more important that you know them, for to you falls the task of guarding him in these dangerous times. Do not underestimate your might nor falter by his side, because without you he will surely fall. It is indeed a privilege to have you by our side." Ajihad says
"Ajihad strikes me as a noble man. Tell him that I'm impressed with Tronjheim and with him. The Empire is right to fear him." Saphira says
Eragon relayed the message to Ajihad.
"I would expect such a response from one as noble as you, Saphira." Ajihad says
Finally, Ajihad turns to face Devon.
"And then there's you, Devon. It has been years since a Keyblade Wielder has joined the Varden. I'm sure Brom has told you of Master Eraqus?" Ajihad says
"Yes, he did." Devon says
"And I'm sure that he meant every word about him. Eraqus was a great friend and hero of the Varden and was very supportive to our cause. He knew well of Galbatorix' evil, and he fought against his tyranny. Eraqus saved many of our people from the Urgals and inspired many of our warriors, dwarfs, elves, and humans. Of course, we knew that his duty as a Keyblade Wielder came first, and many of us were sad when he left our world." Ajihad says
Ajihad's eyes fell somber again.
"Then, came the news of the terrible tragedy that befell the Keyblade Wielders. We do not know how or why it happened, but one day they all just vanished without a trace. Losing the Riders was one thing, but to lose the great Keyblade Wielders was another. And having heard nothing from Eraqus, we assumed the worst. It was a heavy loss. Coincidentally, Galbatorix' power had somehow increased dramatically and the Varden suffered loss after loss ever since. Our grief was unbearable. We have prayed for many nights, hoping beyond hope for the return of the Riders and the Keyblade Wielders." Ajihad says
As he looked upon Devon, a small smile formed on Ajihad's lips.
"Then, finally, we heard rumors. Our spies in the Empire told us of a Keyblade Wielder in Alagaësia. And the message we received from Brom confirmed us of what was true. Your arrival gave us the hope we've been longing for." Ajihad says
"And I'll be sure to deliver." Devon says
Devon looks over at Eragon, nods his head, and the two boys rise up from their seats.
"Ajihad, I promise you. Me, Eragon, and Saphira, we'll make Galbatorix see justice for his evil tyranny, and we'll give back the hope and freedom he stole from the people." Devon says
The dark-skinned man nods his head, then moves around the desk, walks over to the Keyblade Wielder and Dragon Rider, and places his hands on their shoulders.
"I can see Brom was right to place his trust in you. I'm sure that you will do much good for Alagaësia, Devon." Ajihad says
Ajihad looks at Eragon on his left and Saphira behind him.
"And Eragon and Saphira as well." Ajihad says
The blue dragoness and her Rider nod their heads in acknowledgment.
"Come. Let us return outside. We have much that needs to be done." Ajihad says
Ajihad starts walking towards the door to leave the study and Devon, Eragon, Saphira, Orik, and Nasuada followed him out.
The group walk back out into the hall and the guards closed the doors to the study behind them. They entered one of the four main tunnels that divided Tronjheim. Clusters of dwarves and humans strolled through it, their voices echoing loudly off the polished floor. Their conversations stopped abruptly as they saw Saphira. Scores of eyes fixed on her. The group ignored them and turned left, heading toward one of Tronjheim's distant gates.
They exited through the same gate they had entered. Orik pointed up towards the mouth of a cave far above them on the east side of the valley.
"You'll be pleased to know that the dragonhold is ready. It took our servants most of the day before, but it's all set for you lads, and Saphira. Fresh meat and pure mountain water await you up there, Saphira, and bedding has been laid out. Your magic clothes also await you up there, Devon. They're now dry and ready." Orik says
"That's great, Orik." Devon says
Saphira hummed with intrigue.
"This dragonhold sounds to my liking. It will be soothing to rest together without fear of wild animals or soldiers. We have suffered the hardships of the trail too long." Saphira says
"We have armor for you, Eragon. It awaits you in the armory." Ajihad says
The group were soon stopped by a woman who approached them with a look of desperation on her face. Her gray eyes fixed on them surrounded by a lifetime's worth of wrinkles, her skin folded in long creases down her sunken cheeks. A small crowd of humans and dwarves gathered around them as the woman came to Devon and Eragon with a request.
"Dragon Rider, Keyblade Wielder, please. Lend me your strength." The woman says
"What's wrong?" Devon asks
The woman directed the heroes to the tattered bundle in the crook of her left-arm. She tilted her arm and a cloth fell from the bundle, revealing a baby's face.
"The child has no parents. They were murdered by Galbatorix' soldiers. There is no one left to care for her but me, and I am weak. Please, would you kindly give her your blessings? Bless them with your powers, great ones. Bless her with luck." The woman says
Devon and Eragon looked to Ajihad, Hrogthar, Nasuada, and Orik for help, but they only watched with guarded expressions. Then, the two boys shared uncertain glances with each other. Neither of them had given their blessings to anyone before, and this was something not done lightly in Alagaësia, as a blessing could easily go awry and prove to be more curse than boon, especially if it was spoken with ill intent or lack of conviction. Were they even ready to take such a responsibility? Everyone fell silent, awaiting their response. Soon, Devon stood up to the woman with a brave look on his face, determined to do what he could for her and the baby.
"We'll do what we can to help her." Devon says
Devon looks back at Eragon who nods his head, and he steps up alongside him. Eragon went first as he prepared to give his blessing to the baby. He searched for a phrase or expression to use. Nothing came into mind until, inspired, he thought of the ancient language. This would be a true blessing, spoken with words of power, by one of power. Reaching out, he laid his palm on the baby's brow and spoke the words.
"Atra gülia un ilian tauthr ono un atra ono waíse skölir frá rauthr." Eragon chants
The words left Eragon unexpectedly weak, as if he had used magic. He lifted his hand away and looked up to speak to the woman.
"That is all I can do for her. If any words have the power to forestall tragedy, it will be those." Eragon says
"Thank you, Rider." The woman whispers gratefully
With Eragon finished, Devon stepped up next to give his blessing. He summoned his Keyblade: Soul Calibur into his hands in a flash of blue light and held it up close to his face. Focusing on the baby and concentrating on his magic, Devon closed his eyes and thought of a protective spell that would keep her safe from harm. Soul Calibur, the Celestial Ring on Devon's middle-finger, and his Kingdom Hearts necklace all glowed brightly with their benevolent light. Above the tip of the crystal Keyblade appeared a blue-white wisp of heavenly light, which gently floated down to the child. Then, everyone watched in wonder and amazement as the wisp enters the baby's chest with a small, brief flash of light. Finished with his blessing, the light from Soul Calibur, the Celestial Ring, and Devon's necklace fades away and the young teen de-summons his Keyblade with a sigh.
"Huh... There you go, ma'am. I just cast a spell that should help protect the baby. The light will keep her safe." Devon says
"Thank you, great one. Thank you." The woman whispers gratefully
Saphira snorted and twisted until her head loomed over the child. The woman grew rigid. Her breath caught in her chest. Saphira lowered her snout and brushed the baby between the eyes with the tip of her nose, then smoothly lifted away. A gasp ran through the crowd. On the baby's forehead, where the blue dragoness had touched her, was a white and silver star-shaped patch of skin. The woman stared at Saphira with a feverish gaze, wordless thanks in her eyes.
"Saphira? What did you do?" Eragon asks
"I gave her hope. And both you and Devon have given her a future." Saphira says
Devon and Eragon glance up at the cave where the dragonhold was, then turned to Orik.
"Is it alright if we see the dragonhold first before we head to the armory? We're curious to see it." Devon asks
Orik glances back at Ajihad, who nods his head, then looks back at the
"Aye. Go ahead, lads. We'll be here waiting." Orik says
"We won't be long. It'll be just a second." Devon says
Devon and Eragon climb up onto Saphira and the blue dragoness took flight, battering the awestruck spectators with the wind from her powerful wing strokes. The ground quickly dwindled away, and the trio soared through the air.
In only a minute's flight, Saphira lands in the cave with the sharp clack of her claws. Devon and Eragon climb down from her back, and they gaze around at the dragonhold. They stood in a large cave with walls that were lined with dark openings, which differed in size from grottoes no larger than a man to a gaping cavern larger than a house. Shiny rungs were set into the marble walls so that people could reach the caves.
Devon, Eragon, and Saphira walked over to a medium-sized cave in the dragonhold and looked around inside. The cave was dark brown on the inside and deeper than they expected. The roughly chiseled walls gave the impression of natural formations. Near the wall was a thick cushion, large enough for Saphira to curl up on. Beside it was a bed built into the side of the wall. The cave was lit by a single red lantern equipped with a shutter so its glow could be muted. And on the bed was Devon's clothes, neatly folded and cleaned, waiting for him.
The Keyblade Wielder grabbed his clothes and walks back out into the main cave with Eragon and Saphira. He heads into a grotto to change, then comes back out a moment later, feeling refreshed in his clothes.
"Ahh... Much better." Devon says
"I like this. It feels safe." Eragon says
"Yeah. It looks great." Devon says
Devon turns toward the cave's entrance, and something caught his eye. He walks over to the mouth of the cave and stops at the edge to look outside. It was a spectacular view. They could see the whole valley from the dragonhold.
"Wow... Check out this view." Devon says
Eragon walks up and stands alongside Devon on his left while Saphira stood behind them. They, too, admired the view of the valley and the stone towers that stood tall along the crater walls. Even as Eragon enjoyed the view, it struck him for the first time exactly how far away he was from home. A destroyed home, but where his heart lay. So much has happened since he had found Saphira in the Spine. He had consulted with the leader of the Varden, been pursued across Alagaësia by Galbatorix, the Ra'zac, and Urgals, traveled with Murtagh, who he learned was Morzan's son, and now blessings were sought from him. Still processing all of this, Eragon speaks to his best friend.
"Hey, Devon?" Eragon says
"Yeah?" Devon says turning his head left
"Have you ever wondered how your life turned out to be? The way as it is? Becoming a Keyblade Wielder? Fighting evil monsters? Traveling the Universe and different worlds?" Eragon asks
"Well... I have thought about it on a few occasions. How things could've been different. Like if my parents were still alive. If my three missing friends never went... well... missing. If I had switched places with Sora or Riku, where I would be now. All these possibilities going through my mind. And to be honest... I really don't have an answer for that. I just learn to accept where I am and what I am." Devon says
"What Devon says is true. No matter the possibilities, we can never predict how our lives turn out or what could have been. We can only embrace the present and find peace in where we are and what we are." Saphira says
"Why do you ask, Eragon?" Devon asks
"It's just... This is all just so overwhelming. It's like I'm living in an illusion, a dream where all things are possible." Eragon says
Devon nodded his head, understanding what Eragon meant.
"I know the feeling. I felt it ever since I became a Keyblade Wielder. I still do." Devon says
The trio continued to stare out at the enclosed valley until Devon spoke.
"Alright. Let's go. We don't want to keep Ajihad and the others waiting." Devon says
Eragon nods his head in agreement and the two boys climb up into Saphira's saddle. Once they were on her back, the blue dragoness leaps out of the cave and spreads her wings wide open as she soars through the air down to the valley.
After seeing the dragonhold, Devon, Eragon, and Saphira rejoins Ajihad, Nasuada, Hrogthar, and Orik, and the group heads back inside the caves. They enter an armory where several men and dwarves hammered their swords into shape on anvils and sharpened their blades on stone wheels. Ajihad walks over to the far side of the armory and gestures his right-hand to a set of armor, which stood on a display stand.
"Here is your armor, Eragon." Ajihad says
Eragon steps forward and gazes upon the armor with a stunned expression. The armor set consisted of a black, leather-backed mail shirt covered with silver scales, a pair of bracers for his arms, and greaves for his lower legs.
"Thank you. These are very appreciated." Eragon says
"Heh. Don't give thanks now. Wait until the armor saves your life." Orik says
"We are glad that you are pleased with it, Eragon. Now, it is time we prepare for the Urgals and the Imperial army. Be ready to fight at nightfall." Ajihad says
And with that, Ajihad walks away with Nasuada to begin preparing the Varden for battle. Hrogthar places his right-hand on Devon's left-shoulder in companionship and nods his head to him and Eragon, then walks away to join Ajihad and his daughter. As soon as they were gone, Orik turns and looks up at Saphira.
"Saphira, if you'd kindly follow me, we've got armor ready for you as well." Orik says
The blue dragoness glances down at the Keyblade Wielder and her Rider, who nods their heads. She returns the nod and follows the dwarf to another part of the armory, going down into a tunnel. Eragon turns back to his armor and began putting it on. While he did that, Devon turned and looked around at the armory, watching the men and dwarves around them as they grabbed their weapons and went to their assigned posts elsewhere in Farthen Dûr. Eragon slipped into the armored shirt but was having trouble tying the back of his neck closed. That's when help came in the form of Arya, who was now fully healed and well. The elf princess comes up behind the Rider with silent footsteps and ties the back of his armor, much to his surprise.
"It's not as easy as it looks, does it?" Arya asks
Arya walks around Eragon and stands infront of him, leaning against a round golden shield with her right-arm and her left-hand resting at her hips. Devon turns around and smiled, happy to see the elf princess. Eragon was just as happy to see Arya as he looked upon her beautiful, slender form. Arya now wore a plain black leather suit of armor. Her slender sword sheathed at her hip. Her hair tied back by a leather band with two golden feathers on the right. Her stance perfectly balanced and relaxed. An unmarked face reflected none of the abuse she had endured at Gil'ead.
"You look... fit for battle." Eragon says
"Arya!" Devon exclaims
Devon walks over to Eragon's right-side and stands alongside him as he looks at Arya.
"Great to see you up and about. How are you feeling?" Devon says
"Alive and well. Thanks to you. I owe you both a debt of eternal gratitude." Arya says
"It-It was nothing." Eragon says
"We're just glad you recovered." Devon says
Arya looked at Devon with a kind smile.
Outside, the men and dwarves of the Varden began prepping and arming themselves for battle. The dwarves grabbed their war hammers, battle axes, and crossbows, while the human warriors equipped themselves with swords, spears, maces, and long bows. They sharpened their blades, took their quivers, strapped their bows to their backs, and went to their posts. Battalions split into groups and moved into positions in different parts of Farthen Dûr. Everyone was moving with haste, shouting orders and messages back and forth.
While the warriors prepared themselves for the fight ahead, a mass exodus of women and children, along with the Varden's elders, were evacuated into the surrounding valleys, streaming out of Tronjheim. Everyone carried loads of provisions, clothes, and belongings. A small group of warriors, mostly boys and old men, accompanied them. Guides escorted the women and children east to Surda to ensure their survival, in the event that the Varden is defeated.
Back in the caves, Arya helped Eragon settle into his armor, strapping his bracers onto his forearms and tying them down tight.
"Be strong, Eragon. The search of the Rider has been long and dangerous. Most of us have carried Saphira's egg, hoping it would one day hatch. And fate finally carried it to you." Arya says
"But why me? I'm just a farm boy from Carvahall." Eragon asks
"Because that is who Saphira chose." Arya says leading Eragon over to a round silver shield
The Rider looks down at his reflection in the shield and stared with a stunned expression.
"I barely even recognize myself." Eragon says,
It was now late evening in Tronjheim as the Varden continued to ready themselves. All of the preparations took almost the entire day. Devon, Eragon, and Arya walked into the training field on the south-west side of the valley, where most of the Varden's warriors spent their time in the practicing combat. The unruly clatter of fighting filled the air. The loud clang of steel clashing steel, the solid thump of arrows striking padded targets, the rattle and clank of wooden staves, and the shouts of men in mock battle. The noise was confusing, yet each group had a unique rhythm and pattern.
There were many dwarves as much as humans, though they trained in their own seperate groups, and nearly all of them were outfitted with armor. For the humans, they wore chain mail armor, and a mail coif or helmet. As for the dwarves, they were garbed in heavy battle gear. Burnished steel hauberks hung to their knees, their legs covered with extra-fine mail, iron caps on their heads and brass-studded boots. Behind the sparring warriors, a broad line of archers fired steadily at grey sackcloth dummies.
Devon decided to get into some practice and training along with the warriors, beginning with his newest Formchange. Stretching his right-hand out, the young teen summons Soul Calibur in its Crystal Bow form, spins and tosses it into the air, then catches it in his left-hand. This drew the attention of the archers at his sides, and a few men and dwarves, who were curious to see what Devon could do.
Spreading his legs apart, the Keyblade Wielder gets into his stance, holds his bow vertically straight, grabs the bow string with his right-hand, and nocks a white arrow of light on the string. Devon grabs the arrow's end with his thumb, index, and middle finger, pulls back on the bow string, holds the crystal bow vertically straight, and takes aim with his right-eye looking through the holographic projection reticle. With the sackcloth dummy in his sights, Devon releases the arrow, and it flies through the air with high velocity. His first shot strikes the dummy's head with incredible precision, producing a loud thump, much to the amazement of the archers, Eragon, and even Arya. Devon grabs the bow string again and three light arrows appear on the string. He pulls back, takes aim, and releases all three arrows in a multi-shot, and all three hit their target, striking the dummy's body. Astounded gasps and murmurs came from the spectators around the Keyblade Wielder. Once more, Devon nocks a third light arrow onto the bow string and deftly releases it. The arrow flies through the air and strikes its target, destroying the dummy on impact with a medium-sized explosion of blue-white light and a bang. Smoke filled the area until it dissipates a few seconds later, revealing all that remained of the dummy: the smoking base on which it once stood. Most of the spectators were stunned by what they saw, but they soon applauded Devon for his skills. The Keyblade Wielder turned to the warriors as they cheered for him, and he scratched the back of his head with a slight chuckle.
After practicing his archery skills at the firing range, Devon moves on to practice some attacks with his Keyblade in its regular form. Standing infront of the dummies, Devon spun Soul Calibur around his sides, then brought it forward, holding his trusted Keyblade infront of him with both hands. Behind him stood Eragon, Arya, and a small crowd of humans and dwarves.
Targeting the first dummy in his view, Devon dashes forward and strikes with a right slash, closing distance on the dummy in just one second. He lands more strikes to the dummy, attacking with a left slash, a thrusting strike, an uppercut slash, two spinning reverse roundhouse strikes, a backflip slash, and finishes with a leaping somersault slash that slices the training dummy in half diagonally downward to the right.
Moving onto the next dummy, Devon leaps across the training grounds toward his target with a fast aerial flip, spinning 720-degrees to the right, and strikes with a left downward slash from his crystal Keyblade. He quickly follows up with a wide sweeping right slash, a butterfly kick, a jumping double kick, a reverse roundhouse slash, and an overhead strike that slices the dummy vertically in half, causing both halves to fall apart.
For the next set of dummies, the Keyblade Wielder practiced with his magic. First, he casts a strong Firaga spell through Soul Calibur, shooting a large fireball which obliterates three dummies in a fiery explosion. Next, he uses a Blizzaga spell, launching a large shard of ice, which homes in on a small group of three training dummies. The icy projectile hits the center dummy and explodes, unleashing an ice-blue cloud of frost, which instantly freezes the dummies, and shatters them a moment later. Then, Devon pulls his crystal Keyblade back and thrusts it up to the sky, casting a Thundaga spell, which summons a strong cluster of lightning bolts that strikes down on three dummies and outright disintegrates them, leaving nothing but scorched black spots on the ground where they once stood. Finally, Devon pulls his left-hand back and thrusts it forward using an Aeroga spell, sending forth powerful gusts of wind that completely blows away the remaining four dummies, sending them flying in the air and out of the valley as they disappear high over the top of Farthen Dûr.
Loud cheers and praise erupted from the warriors to Devon, having been amazed and awe-inspired by the incredible powers of the Keyblade. Devon turned around to his left and hefts Soul Calibur onto his right-shoulder, giving a thumbs up with his left-hand and a smile. Eragon and Arya smiled as well. With such a strong Keyblade Wielder like Devon on their side, everyone felt much more confident about their chances at winning the fight against Durza, the Urgals, and the Imperial Army.
Near the center of the valley, not far from the training field, Ajihad, Hrogthar, and several men and dwarves gathered around a map of Farthen Dûr, which was laid out on the ground, and began to formulate strategies for their defenses with Hrogthar pointing out specific spots on the map with a stick. Also with them was Jörmundur, Ajihad's second-in-command. They received word from a dwarf messenger that the Urgals were now in the tunnels east of the valley and were quickly closing in on Farthen Dûr.
The men and dwarves sealed all the passageways, gates, and entrances leading into the valley, including the tunnel where the Urgals would be coming from. This would funnel the Urgal attackers into a concentrated location where they could easily be destroyed. The dwarves struck the entrance with war hammers and pickaxes, weakening sections of the ceiling. A resounding crack could be heard on the surface, then a persistent screech. The dwarves backed away and the ground slid inwards like water draining in a tub, sealing the tunnel off with large rubble.
For the next setup of their defenses, flammable oil and tar was poured into the small water-filled ditches, which had small bridges running over them, and infront of the tunnel entrance. When ignited, the flames should burn down the Urgals, or at the very least shorten their numbers. As an extra precaution, rows of sharpened saplings were pounded into the ground, providing thorny barricades between the battalions and the tunnel. Soon, everything was ready. All that was left to do was wait until the Urgals arrive.
After visiting the training grounds, Devon and Eragon are led by Arya back into the caves and they enter another part of the armory where dragon armor hung from chains in the cave.
"Dragon armor!" Devon exclaims
"Aye." A male voice says
The two humans and the elf princess look over to their right and saw Orik leaning next to the entrance of a large grotto with his arms crossed and a smile on his face, now wearing his dwarvish armor, clad like the rest of his kin.
"You didn't think dragons went into battle unprotected, did you?" Orik says
Orik glances back at the grotto and the heroes watch as Saphira steps out into the cave, donning her new dragon armor. Her neck was covered with triangular scales of overlapping armor. Saphira's belly and chest were protected by the heaviest plates, while the lightest ones covered her tail. At the top of Saphira's tail was a large, bladed mace with wide, sharp edges. Her legs and back were completely encased. Her wings were left bare. And she wore a triangular helm, which covered the top of her head and the sides of her face, leaving her upper and lower jaws free to bite and snap. The armor flexed smoothly with the blue dragoness as she moved. Saphira stood tall and proud before the heroes as they gazed upon her.
"Well? How do I look?" Saphira asks
"Very intimidating." Eragon says
"Yeah. That'll put the fear of dragons in the Empire." Devon says
"Human and dwarf smiths worked through the night, making this armor for Saphira." Orik says
The dwarf looks up at the blue dragoness and pats her armored side with his right-hand, proud of the work that his people and the Varden had accomplished.
"I must say it suits her well." Orik says
Saphira hummed, feeling pleased by the compliments.
"It is to protect our only dragon. And the one who rides her." Arya says
Suddenly, a blatant war horn blows and sounds out throughout the mountains, which attracts the attention of everyone in the Varden. The sound of the horn could only mean one thing.
"It's time." A human warrior says
"All honor the Varden!" Another human warrior says
Arya shares glances with Devon and Eragon for a moment, then walks away to get into position with the rest of the warriors in the Varden. Orik grabs his war hammer, which was standing on his left, and walks over to the two humans. He nods his head at them, then heads out of the caves through the same exit as Arya. Devon and Eragon shared determined looks with each other and nod their heads. Then, they look up at Saphira, who also nodded her head.
"Let's do this." Devon says
And so, the Keyblade Wielder, the Rider, and the blue dragoness leave the armory and head out of the caves to get to their positions. The Battle of Farthen Dûr was about to begin.
Author's Note: Behold! Tronjheim! The glorious capital city of the dwarves! For this, Tronjheim is mostly as it appears in the film, but with more elements from the book added into it, such as the dragonhold, the training fields, even the blessing scene, which was in the book but was deleted in the movie. So, as I'm sure everyone can see, I've done my homework with this one. And now, it's time for the chapter we've been waiting for: the Battle of Farthen Dûr! This next chapter is going to be quite a challenge. Bet you guys can't wait. Let me know what you guys think. No flames please. Hope you guys like and don't forget to review!