A/N: Welcome back! I'm glad of your reviews! Here's where things get interesting…. Oh, and there is a poll at the end of the chapter, please take it; it's for my next story!
Chapter 9: A Dark Feeling
While Eragon and Saphira made their way back to the city, Murtagh was on a journey of his own. He walked nonchalantly down the halls of the castle, Thorn by his side. Because Galbatorix had called him, he was more than inclined to oblige.
I hope this time our assignment is more dignified. Thorn mused.
Dignified? How funny it would be if we were called to attack and kill Eragon and to capture his dragon? Is that more suitable, O mighty dragon?
Thorn growled menacingly. Do not mock me, Murtagh. I know nothing of the pair, besides seeing them in battle. They are no concern of mine.
This time it was Murtagh's turn to growl. But they are of mine. He is my brother.
He did not seem to want to share your brotherly affection.
These words stung Murtagh, and he refused to reply.
They had arrived at the grandeur that was a pair of broad, wooden doors encrusted with rubies, diamonds, emeralds, and other precious stones. Murtagh lifted the golden knocker and rapped hard on the door, which made a hollow booming sound.
A deep voice bid them enter, and they did so. The room the two found themselves in was filled with priceless treasures and artifacts of Galbatorix's travels. And amidst all of it, Galbatorix sat cradling a forest-green egg. A long snake-like figure with wings was curled around Galbatorix like a black ribbon.
He lifted his aged face and beckoned them in a jolly way. "Murtagh, Thorn, my most distinguished guests," he said silkily, and they sat.
"You called," said Murtagh coldly.
Galbatorix's cheery façade dropped a notch. "Yes, right. I called for you because years of my research and planning have worked themselves out. The two only real flaws in my otherwise perfect world are, you might guess: The Rider and the elves. The elves, however, can be taken care of. You, my friend, are the key component in my plan. You must lead 100,000 of my finest troops to wipe them all out. Take them by surprise, capture their leader, and cut off their power sources. I know they have one."
It took a while for Murtagh to register this. "Wipe out an entire species? Perhaps the species that is closest to the human existence?"
This is not right. Said Thorn. A few pesky rebels, I understand. But entire civilization that has been thriving ever since the dragons came to this land is unthinkable.
I agree, but we cannot refuse, we are bound to him. We'll figure out or mission on the way there.
There, where? I do not know where the elves are hiding themselves.
Galbatorix must know, or else he wouldn't have called us for this mission.
Perhaps.
Murtagh sighed shallowly, and stood. "We agree to your terms, O king, we could not have said otherwise."
Galbatorix gave them both a pleased smirk. "Then you are learning your place. Good. Come on, Shruikan."
The huge coil about Galbatorix stirred and rose to his hind legs. His size was astounding, and his wingspan stunning.
"To the map room," announced Galbatorix. He strode away importantly, Shruikan following like a dog on his master's heel.
POLL: In your review, please answer the poll.
What idea would like in my next Fanfiction?
Romance
The Future – Events after the series.
Parodies.
Other?
THANK YOU!
