Modified

by AlbaLupo

Instead of escaping to Carvahall, Selena was captured by the King's Guards and was never able to meet up with Brom and Murtagh. Eragon's born in the dark city and under the King's watchful eye, was trained to become the bane of the Varden and everything Brom and Selena didn't want him to be...but will it really stay that way? (ExA eventually)

4. Chapter 4

Thank you for the reviews (and for thos eof you who doesn't know, reviews are like drugs to authors...irresistable drugs that makes us wanna sit down and write for daaays)

Ok thats about it ! R&R

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Chapter 4- Renée

Eragon's POV

I can hear my servants gasp as I walked into the castle without my helm on. It dawned on me that I only looked more as a demon now with this armor, but I found my men to be more loyal than I had thought. Upon entering the castle I was stopped by my own men's asking for my identity, of course at the time I had my helm on. The thought lightened my mood…to know that they actually cared that a stranger might enter my domain made me strangely happy. I was not surprised when I saw the look of my servants or soldiers… aside from the armor Galbatorix practically ordered me to stop concealing my eye. He said it was a sign of his gifted, therefor it shouldn't be hidden, and instead I should be proud of the power I held. However it knew it was his way of distancing me from everyone.. for me to become alone.

"Eragon…? You smell…rather…weird. As if you stayed within a mixed crowed for a long time, but even then the smell shouldn't have lingered. That new metal-plate-skin you wear makes you look very ferocious thought."-I can feel Saphira sniffing me and I gently patted her nose away

"Saphira…I…well thank you for the compliment. I can tell by the way the servants are avoiding me more now"- A sense of guilt and lonely washed over me. I shouldn't be feeling guilty … who was I to say what I did was right or wrong? But, surely giving up one's body merely for money is…..wrong? Then hiring people to do anything is wrong too because their using their body and you hired them for labor, what difference is there?

"Saphira… I went to a …brothel."

"Brothel? What is it? A new dining place?"

"No….it's like..like… a human mating ground. I'm not going to go back… it's not right even if the women did offer their body for money willingly… I don't know but the act itself is wrong, it's not the same as hiring one for labor."- Embarrassment flooded over me and I hoped Saphira wouldn't know

"Human mating ground…interesting, I didn't know the human population was declining"

"Saphira.. the mating ground is purely for pleasure…not for reproductive purposes."

"I see. Seems like you can still think straight even with the demonic souls inside, I'm proud of you. I may have hatched only about a year ago but I am hundreds of years old. Even if we dragons do switch mates throughout our life time we do not just mate with anyone. Mating is a special act of trust and love… it should not be something that just happens, especially between strangers. Perhaps that's why you feel so much guilt for what you did, however for you it's a bit different Eragon. It's like food or water to you; you actually need it to survive, I can tell how much more reenergized you are through our connection. But you don't exactly smell pleasing at the moment as you did before, not that I would love you any less cause of what you smell like."

"Thank you Saphira, and Galbatorix is not expecting us today… but he said he does tomorrow at dawn. Do rest up, and if you still need food you know I can always order them to buy a cow of your liking?"

"I see, and I had enough to eat, you rest up too Little One" – she poked me with her head affectionately before she flew off to her chamber. What she said was true, I felt much more refreshed than anything else, much like the clarity that came after killing a man. Someone like me should not exist in the world, yet I do. Just to live I have to kill … now living seems like too much to ask for considering how I have to take lives to keep my own, what justice is that? I walked up to my chamber and begin switching into more comfortable clothes when I realized that my left eye…the one that turned permanently red was a tad bit different…my once round pupil was now more like a cat's but still more round than a slit. My other eye which had also been changing colors since Saphira's growth spur was now fully dark blue, like the hue of her scales. When I looked closer I saw that my ears also became sharper since last night, much more elf-like. I could only conclude that it was due to my lust soul being fed, and because it fueled my magic and, elves are the most magical race, it made my body more similar to an elf than it already was. I may be born a human…but I've grown to look less and less like one.

~A few days later

Beads of sweat ran down my face as I thought about my next move against Galbatorix, he was an expert swordsman and had disarmed me many times throughout the 4 hours we've spared. He did not wear armor but I did and he forbids me to enchant them to weigh less, stating that it would help me with my stamina in battle. Our swords clashed over and over again, I was able to meet him blade for blade but the force behind his blade was greater than I could imagine over the course of the 4 hours. My strength was deteriorating and so was my stamina. Practicing with Galbatorix kept me alert at all times for he was one to use magic along with everything else to his advantage. He often jumped in front of the sun blinding me, and I learned from my mistakes of standing in place to moving quickly out so the sun can no longer hide him. Numerous bruises lined my body from previous sessions, reminding me of now much of a novice I am compared to him. Jumping up quickly to dodge his leg sweep I slammed my sword down only to have him move out from under me at a lightning quick pace. My moment of instability allowed him to slam his sword into my ribs, cause them to break, and his sword then rose to my neck.

"Dead again" – I can see the start of some sweat starting to coat his forehead, but compared to him I was drenched under the hot sun.

"Go rest, and you may heal your ribs but leave everything else be. Today will end our sparring lessons for this month; I want to educate you in the ways of politics which you will need knowledge of if you are to serve me in the future. Before you go join me for a meal, I have things to discuss with you after we both redress."

After instructing me on the correct forks to use along with spoons we begin eating. He told me of the customs of this world and etiquette is needed to show education along with your place in society.

"Asmodeus, have you heard of the Varden?"

"Yes, they are a petty resistance group. Way smaller in number in comparison to your empire"

"Indeed, do you know your mother joined them, along with your father and your older brother?"

"No, will you be destroying them anytime soon?"-this was news to me, I never heard of mother joining the Varden, nor my father and older brother….older brother. An older brother that did not need to be subjected to these types of tortures, and safe away from Galbatorix, mother had only told me of him a few times, we had different fathers, his was Morzan and mine was Brom. How ironic, my father who strove to destroy is empire fathered a son that now protects it, his father that protected it, fathered a son that's working on destroying it.

"Not yet, I want to make an example out of this petty resistance group. Sometimes people do not listen to words, they only react to actions. I've warned people against joining the Varden and what did they do? They continued to join. Not to mention, it adds interesting elements to my life. They will die an unforgiving death for betraying me."- I believed this to be his way warning against joining my family in the Varden….family… a family that has left me alone in the cold city of Uru Baen.

"You will be learning with Garret, his father has taught him well in the ways of politics. I do expect you to continue your training routines with your soldiers. Saphira however, will be learning from me and Shruikan. Depending on your learning pace I could be sending you to Feinster soon. I believe a new governor is soon to be chosen, and I would prefer it if she served under me."

"About when will this take place?"

"A few more months from now, it should be more than enough time for one such as you to learn about politics under Garret's father Lord Ashton. I know that you and Garret are not the best of friends but learn to cooperate; he is to inherit his father's place in my empire, and I do have plans for him in the future."

"I understand"

The next morning I rode to the Ashton's estate for guidance on politics. It was simpler than I thought; Lord Ashton simply told me a few rules to follow and he said the rest is a battle of words that held veiled meanings. Most of the time if possible, it's easier to force the person into submission , which can be accomplished by having control over what matters to them. It was always more intelligent to act less intelligent for it would anger your superior, and people often liked to be compliment. If we are to go please a lady it would be best to compliment her in an appropriate way, I found this to work quite well whenever noble ladies visited the castle with their father to discuss topics related to economics with the king. One even complimented me back on my red eye, surprising me, telling me about how it gave me a dangerous yet attractive look. I suppose this is called networking as the King said, people are more likely to do you favors if they like you, and comes in handy when you need allies. Although my sessions with Lord Ashton ended quickly he did have good advices that I kept in mind "Your enemy's enemies are your allies" it was a clear statement that if I should one day have an enemy and I want to use as little resources as possible it would be best to form alliances.

Time passed quickly under Galbatorix's tutelage, and now Saphira was quite skill at maneuvering around in the air, and I was more experience moving around on her back as she did flips and turns. Although I never managed to defeat Galbatorix in the battle of swords, his actions gave me suspicion, he moved far more quickly than an elf and more stamina than I, who is not a total being of this world. However I knew better than to question his prowess in the battlefield, for he did defeat the elf King Evandar, a skilled swordsman. As usual after the sparring we ate a meal together and discuss a variety of subjects. It's been many months now and I'm glad that these days will soon end, as much as I hated being best at with the sword every time sparring with Galbatorix improved my skills greatly. He trained me to use two swords instead of one which came rather quickly to me, along with using my whole body in battle whether it is to kick the enemy or whirl out of the way which required less energy than parrying a blow, especially if it is one of similar strength

"Eragon, I would like you to go forth to Feinster, the new governor has been selected however she has not vowed her loyalty to me yet. As you know, Feinster is a port city; therefor it offers financial opportunities along with more trade. Take what you need to make sure that she'll be my loyal subject by your return."

"Yes"

"If it is to be a success I will reward you with a trading business over there so you no longer need to rely on me for your finances. Also, have no worries about the moon, I have arrange everything over there to suit your needs; hopefully everything can be accomplished within the next month, two months at most. Saphira will go with you, it is time she practiced long distance flying, along the way if you happen to meet any Varden traders, do me a favor and destroy them. From my informants, there should be at least one group of traders gathering goods for the Varden. I do expect them to be utterly destroyed, but you can leave one alive to report their failure. "- And of my horrid existence is what he didn't outright stated. I can only imagine he sought to have Brom try to destroy me and I kill my own father in return.

I nodded and the rest of the meal was finished in silence.

After the meal I retired to my castle, today I planned give the captain of each five team their own falcon, Vince's children's, these falcon's been trained by their father to communicate messages like he can. These Falcons will also serve as my eyes; I've begun to wonder if Galbatorix had put a spy into my troops to see what I did. The five groups consist of ground soldiers, magicians, healers, archers and finally messengers otherwise known as assassins but I have trained them to go undercover and investigate, then report back to me. Each captain is someone whom I deemed as reliable and honest without corruption, and I had Vince follow each for a few months before I appointed them as captains of their lot. They all had different trainings to go under, magicians train with the ancient language and I taught them myself along with teaching them how to defend their mind. The healers studied different types of poisons and herbs. I've written books for those two groups to save myself some time but I do visit often to see how they've progressed over the year. Ground soldiers accompanied me during my daily exercise however I don't expect them to do as much as me seeing how they are pure humans. An archer's training was very similar to a ground soldiers however they ran more and practiced with bows instead of shields and swords. The assassins were the oldest and more experienced of the group, I selected only the best of my men to train to become these. They trained with all the groups and each had an area where they specialized in. They were actually strong slaves I've bought instead of the soldiers that Galbatorix originally assigned. Together they were a great fighting force, each magician would be responsible for one ground solder which would be assisted by an archer with a healer ready to either coat poison or help them with recovering giving me twenty teams that worked well with each other. Over the years and months I've gained their trust and enforced strict rules that had to be followed. Most of them were without family, those that do have family I try to put them into the group where they are more likely to survive…it might have seen like favoritism but I much rather not cause any more sadness in the world. However that only came after which group they were most suited for, if they had a runners body I'd most likely put them into the archer's group than any other for that increases their survival chance the most. Dead men can't accomplish anything.

I grabbed the whistle on my necklace that I've trained Vince and his children to reply to and blew into it. There was no sound that normal men can detect, however animal ears that were more sensitive along with my ears can hear the high pitch. Right afterwards I heard the reply of Vince and knew he was heading this way. I blew 5 more times to signal his five children and then waited. Not long afterwards they were all in front of me, taking out five square clothes I folded them in half with my symbol showing in the middle and tied it snugly around their neck. Then I proceed to cast the same spell of protection for each of them. These clothes will prevent an arrow from reaching them, but it will draw energy from the Falcons themselves. After a year I plan to give them each a metal ring around their foot with a small gem embedded in so in time of need they wouldn't die from trying to avoid an arrow. They were all like their father, pure white except for the slight shading of blue, purple or red on their feathers. These shadings occurred when I blessed them with longevity as I did to their father.

"Rise" – I can feel the five men kneel down behind me as I finish casting the protection spell. After assigning a falcon to each man I begin walking to the training quarter of the castle where I placed the five whistles this morning.

"From today onwards these falcons will belong to you, they are intelligent enough to communicate with you with images and sometimes in the ancient language. They are not to be mistreated, and you are to use these whistles to let them know that you need them. Learn how to communicate with these falcons yourselves for that is the best way, and never take off the cloth. It is a symbol that they belong to me and it also protects them from arrows, but even if they do carry my emblem they will become more of your companion than mine. Galbatorix has begun to train me and I will have less time on my hands but I trust you to train each of your team well. This concludes all that I have to say, if you need to communicate with me later on tell your falcon and he can fly to me." – I nodded and bowed slightly to them to show my authority and my respect, they may be men's under me but they are my brothers at arm who if I asked, for will die for me. I watched them bowed back and then leave with their falcons.

~~~Arriving at Feinster

After leaving Saphira outside the city I've decided to go straight to Lady Lorana's castle as she was expecting me. The guards let me passed as soon as I showed them my small metal plate which had the Empire's crest along with my crest upon it. This city was much richer than Uru Baen, it had less starving humans and it seemed… brighter too. Upon seeing Lady Lorana I bowed to show my respect, for I am only the ambassador and she is the governor.

"Greetings Lord Asmodeus, I hope your day finds you well. I've been expecting you, and I know what you've come here for, there is no need for useless pleasantries for they only waste time, and no doubt annoys you too for I heard you are a man of few words."

I nodded to show my consent, and wondered if it was disrespectful to keep my helm on, however I did not want her to see my red eye. She started walking towards the balcony and I followed behind.

"Asmodeus, I do not know of that type of man you are but I'm unafraid to speak my mind. This is a peaceful city where trade flourishes and my people are joyous and healthy. As their chosen governor I will do all that I can to ensure their safety to the best as I can. I heard you entered Galbatorix's services not too long ago and your origins are questionable but I do not judge a man based on his looks or origin but rather his actions. Your actions are mostly honorable if my informants are right about you, of course everyone has done dishonorable things, and none is perfect." Although I haven't met her for long, she has earned respect through her out-spoken ways which few dared to do. Taking off my helm she met me eye for eye, never wavering. Quite brave I have to say…

"You came here for me to swear fealty to Galbatorix have you not?"

"Indeed. Please know that I mean you and your city no harm. However King Galbatorix wishes you to be his ally, and he is not kind to those who refuses his offer."

"What will happen if I refuse?"

"He will most likely send his soldiers and take over this city… if he cannot have something he will try to obtain it, if he cannot obtain it then he will destroy it before it can be used against him."

"Thank you, for your honesty. It seems I have no other choice than to agree but I wish to consult with my court before any final decisions are made. Could you tell me how much time he allotted me for my decision?"

"He expects it within 2 months is most, preferably as soon as possible thought. The king is not too patient when it comes to such matters."

"I can tell from your quick arrival. If I do agree to be his vassal what will be done?"

"You will remain as governor of this area, however he will use this port's wealth as he sees fit. I know neither choices are appealing, but the best choice in this situation would be to agree to his demands." – I can already see her shoulders slack from her thoughts of the future but there is little I can do for I do not want to lead her to believe in a false future.

"I understand Asmodeus….thank you, and it is proper for me to hose a feast for your arrival. I'm sure Galbatorix expects it seeing as your one of his top officers, the feast will be tonight in my castle. I know the inn where Galbatorix arranged for you to stay at so I will send a messenger when time comes; please feel free to visit the different areas of the city. I will try to get an answer from my council as soon as possible; however they will not be pleased." I noticed her emphasis on the word inn and I begin to wonder where exactly did Galbatorix arranged for me to stay at.

"Thank you and I'm sorry if I've put you in a difficult position."

"Do not be, you did not have a choice in this. Not to mention I prefer you as Galbatorix's ambassador over than the young man who visited me before. I believe his name was Garret, son of Lord Ashton who also came along, they were not as pleasing with their words as you are, nor are they as honest. I actually made them wait for your arrival before I hosted the feast." I saw her smile at this. I will keep this woman in mind, she is one who I can benefit from befriending, but she is also one whom I respect.

"Also there will be dancing, the theme is that of a masquerade therefor please do me a favor and participate further by wearing a mask."

I smiled back I nodded before I excited the castle. I walked around town and it was obvious that she was a good governor, no one spoke badly of her and the place was buzzing with business, no doubt advantages to Galbatorix's purse. I was about to go back when I spotted a black cat staring at me, his eyes were red…this is no common cat. Could it be? A werecat? I reached out with my mind until I touched his.

"Hello"

"Greetings to you too Halfling, at least you can tell I'm different unlike these common humans who thinks I'm a cursed cat for whatever god there is sake"

"Halfling…?"

"Well you are not totally human are you? I can sense it from your mind, it's rather dark and different and even with your armor on I can tell from your gait that you are not a common man, yet not an elf either.. I've communicated with elves before their mind are quite different from yours."

"Interesting, I'm….Asmodeus, what may your name be? "

"Asmodeus?...out of all the people there is in the world could it be that I'm talking to Galbatorix's pet?"- my eyes narrowed at his comment.

"I had no choice in the matter, it was either that or death."

"And you chose to serve than to die. Perhaps you made your decision out of foolishness or out of courage. You do not strike me as one who is hungry for power, that much is good but I have not met you long enough to totally determine that. Follow me, the noises irritate my ears."- Seeing no harm in following him, I followed his trail until he entered…an interesting looking shop. From the outside I can already smell the herbs. I entered and it didn't surprise me to see all the herbs and …interesting colored liquids inside.

"Now will you tell me your name?"

"I have many names but many know me as Solembum, and there for you can call me that. You are a dragon rider are you not? Pity that you should be under Galbatorix's control…perhaps one day we will meet again." –I watched him disappear inside the shop and was about to step out and continue on my way until a women's voice called out to me.

"Hello, you are one of the few that Solembum ever speaks to, by the way do you believe there to be only toads or only frogs? I'm trying to prove that there's only frogs in this world and the so called told on my hand is actually a frog."

"Whether there are only frogs in this world do not concern me, and nor does the existence of toads bother me."

"Not much of a pleaser are we? Do you believe in fortune telling? Not the type where humans go about fooling one another with a crystal ball, but rather with real magic, with the knucklebones of a dragon. I've only done it for two others , a blind beggar who chose not to know, a woman named Selena who did listen."…as in my mother?...but I wasn't going to ask, if that women was my mother then I too will listen like she did.

"I have nothing to lose"- I followed her to the back of the tent and then sat down where she motioned for me to. She got out a pouch and dumped the contents of a dragon's knuckle bone in front of me.

"You can still back out, sometimes knowing one's fate is one's greatest curse." She looked at me seriously, as if she could see straight through me, but I have nothing to fear.

"I am sure" I watched as she speaks three words "Manin! Wydra! Hugin!"the bones tumbled from her hands and her face that seemed energized just moments now seems tired.

"This is the first time I have ever seen it come up in someone's future. Most of the time it's the aspen or the elm, both signs that a person will live a normal span of years. Whether this means that you will live forever or that you will only have an extraordinarily long life, I'm not sure. Whatever it foretells, you may be sure that many years lie ahead of you. Now the bones grow harder to read, as the rest are in a confused pile. Here the wandering path, lightning bolt, and sailing ship all lie together - a pattern I've never seen, only heard of. The wandering path shows that there are many choices in your future, some of which you face even now. I see great battles raging around you, some of them fought for your sake. I see the mighty powers of this land struggling to control your will and destiny. Countless possible futures await you - all of them filled with blood and conflict - but only one will bring you happiness and peace. Beware of losing your way, for you are one of the few who are truly free to choose their own fate. That freedom is a gift, but it is also a responsibility more binding than chains. And yet, as if to counteract that, here is the lightning bolt. It is a terrible omen. There is a doom upon you, but of what sort I know not. Most of it lies in death- one that will soon approach and will cause you much grief. People will fall all around you and those who cannot stand, you will stand for them, those who cannot fight, you will fight for them and those who forfeit their life willing or unwillingly you will make it worth it. You will, in the future leave the land of Alagaësia however your return is questionable may it be due to your death or other circumstances. The next bone is easier to read and perhaps a bit more pleasant. An epic romance is in your future, extraordinary, as the moon indicates - for that is the magical symbol - strong enough to outlast empires. I cannot say if this passion will end happily, but your love is of noble birth and heritage. She is powerful, wise, and beautiful beyond compare. However like all others that surrounds your life this love will not easily be obtain and trials surrounds it as symbolized by the thorns. Be prepared for betrayal."

"Thank you, I will keep your words in mind."

"Do not be too burdened by what fate has in store for you, remember you are one of the few who can truly choose it. Be careful of your choices Asmodeus and your path lie in the darkness similar to that of the night but do not stray from it. Although I do not know when the moon will show but when it does, may it guide you until the sun rises."

I nodded and walked out of the shop… fate… you sure do carry as much burden as you do gifts for me. As I walked out I thought the herbalist warned me once again of my path but I cannot be sure. I wondered why there was two roses but I didn't ask, the predicaments she gave me ate at my courage to know more of the future. I soon arrived at the supposedly "inn" I was to stay for the night. I felt myself frown… Lady Lorana said she knew where I was to stay… great, what did she think of me when the place Galbatorix arranged for me to stay at was a brothel? If there was disgust she did not show it, I cannot help but think this was another ploy by Galbatorix seeking to dishonor my image. I can only hope the news does not reach the Varden which would in turn, reach my family. However my name is no longer Eragon….would mother even think that Asmodeus is actually her son? Why do I keep letting what she thought of matter to me anyway, if she cared she wouldn't have left in the first place, once again my head started hurting after thinking too much about the past. I walked in and informed a servant of the place that I won't be checking in tonight and if there was any plans, to dismiss them all for I did not want company whether it be tonight or any other night that I might stay. I put emphasis on the "might", then I told her to make sure that if any messenger comes for Lord Asmodeus, tell them that I've already started heading there. I left the maid there a bit shocked seeing how her mouth formed a small "o" but I am not the type to visit a place like that unless I absolutely have to. Since Galbatorix practically ordered me to kill I have no need to go there. Damn, it's almost time to go to the feast and I haven't dressed yet. I quickly went to a pricy clothing shop and bought myself a red coat and black dress shirt along with red pants lined with gold. It should be fancy enough, after browsing for a while I again decided to wear the empire's color; it was only appropriate seeing how I'm the ambassador. It wasn't a complicated mask but it was elaborate, which reflected my status. Walking pass several stores I was relieved when I found one that had gloves, I quickly grabbed a white pair. It was a bother to wear gloves everywhere I went but it was best to be safe after casting a cooling spell I called for a carriage to bring me to the castle, walking there was going to take too long and running there might dirty these clothe. One inside the carriage I decided to cast a spell to change both my eyes to blue. I did not want to attract any unwanted attention especially if there's a chance of a Varden official participating in the dance.

After arriving at the dance I immediately greeted Lady Lorana.

"I apologies if I'm late, and I've decided to change my ..inn, if you know of a proper inn then please inform me during or after the feast."

"Do not be worried, it hasn't even begun yet, and you'll be sitting between me and Lord Ashton" I saw her motion to a large round table surrounded by many other smaller round tables.

"Currently people are just mingling about, but seeing how the bell will ring soon let us go to our seats."

Nodding I followed her and watched as the crow eventually sat down at their assigned places. I smiled at everyone who looked my way politely, it would not be wise to offend anyone this early. The meal was eventually set down and Lady Lorana gave a small introduction to the crowed of me and the Astons. After the meal when the music started I slowly started to slip away….until I got caught.

"Asmodeus, I thought you were at least going to try and stay awhile for the dance."- Lady Lorana's voice reached my ears…

"I apologize my lady, I've just been tired from my travels and I have yet to find a place to stay for the night."

"Have no worries, you will stay in the guest quarter in the castle, now try and at least participate for a round of dancing." I nodded but as soon as she turned away I once again begun my escape…until I bumped into someone, curse the wine I drank, normally I would never be this careless.

"I'm extremely sorry" – I begun to apologizing for my clumsiness and then I noticed that even though I bumped into her, I'm the one who had wine spilled on my coat.

"It's quite alright…sir, and I apologize for spilling my wine on your coat" – she has…emerald eyes similar to that of a forest, snap out of it Eragon! The full moon may be near but it doesn't give you an excuse to start having any lewd thoughts I told myself.

"No problem, I just happen to know a little bit of magic" – I just quickly murmured a few words and the wine went away.

…But maybe like Lady Lorana said I should make myself stay at least for a while…

"Words are seldom enough for apologies thought my lady; perhaps you can offer me something else?"

"Her words are enough"- a man appeared and even though he wore a mask I didn't need his facial expressions to tell me he was unhappy with my words, his tone was enough.

"Why I only wanted a dance, or was it too much to ask for? And I'm sure the lady can speak for herself."

"A dance sounds fair; after all I do not want to offend Galbatorix's ambassador." Her smile was small but to me it was brilliant … and I enjoyed making the male fume as I guided her to the dancing grounds.

"You know…it usually isn't my intention to scare a lady into a dance with me" I placed my hand on her waist as she put hers on my shoulder, a grasped her much smaller hand into mine as we begun to move to the tempo of the music. Her emerald eyes were quite attractive..

"I was never scared; I just wanted to give a proper apology. And you didn't exactly state you're to force me into a dance" I felt the tempo of the song increase and smiled… tugging her close

"Join me for this one too…afterwards I promise I won't bother you again for the night"- I whispered in her ear, I can feel her tense and gave her a smile. I had no idea how many times I twirled her around in my arms, or how many times we stepped away only to step closer, following the tempo of the music…..her soft scent of crushed pine needles washed up to me…it was a pleasing smell. Every time a small patch of skin touched I can feel the burning of the tattoo on my chest that was not pleasant but affordable to have her so close. We accidently bumped into a man…or well the man purposely made us bump into him, and I recognized him immediately as the one who was with her before.

"I apologize Lord Asmodeus, but could you please excuse her?" I could feel her hands slip away and I knew our time together has ended….

"It was wonderful dancing with you."- I bowed a little to let her know my appreciation. She curtsied a little before walking away with the man.

I never asked for her name… but I knew that even if I did I wouldn't have visited her. I did not need a companion in my tortures.

For the next few days I await signs of the Varden traders, Galbatorix eventually scryed me and asked me how everything was going. I reported to him that Lady Lorana was still discussing the matter with her council but she said that she will most likely swear fealty to him. He was pleased and then asked me if I found the Varden's traders yet. I told him no and that they were being rather quiet for no matter how many times I went and sat in the tavern I heard of no news of them. I even asked around but none uttered a word even if I slipped them coins they only told me that the Varden came to this port to trade only once in a while. Galbatorix eventually told me of the route they would be heading on their way back the date ordering me to finished all but one off.

On that specific date I rode upon Saphira's back waiting till they walked through the route with large amount of carts. I did not want to kill them…but his order was not to be denied.

"Tell the Varden that the King's patience is waning and you better disperse before he comes personally, the reason why you will live is to send my message to the leader of your petty rebel group." I looked at the solider…he was the youngest one out of all of them who valiantly against me. It took all but a few minutes to finish them off; the clarity came quickly after each death, my own existence is starting to disgust me.

Later that day I returned and Lady Lorana told me that her council had finally agreed and I made her say her fealty in the ancient language and departed from her city after bidding her farewell.

After returning to Urû'baen, I went back to my regular schedule of ingesting poisons, Saphira understood why I did it, but nevertheless she disapproves of it. I found that my body was better at defending me against the effects each time. Sometimes if the dosage was low enough it wouldn't even have an effect on me, over time my resistance to poison grew but it was not absolute. Durza also invited me into his experiments with blood. He tried finding the most delicious blood to sooth his palates but found that when combining different types of blood to create a more exquisite taste the blood becomes chunky at times. After a while I told him I found no pleasure in his experiments for I had no hunger for blood and he only laughed and said the whole empire knew what my hunger demands. I had nothing left to say for my visits throughout the year have made me quite popular in certain areas of the town. For the next few months Galbatorix had me torture, then kill a few spies he found. Although there was not many their will to defend their brothers and secrets amazed me as I starved them and gave them different types of poison, and experimented on the effect. However many of them kept up their shielded minds, I managed to break into all of their minds but as soon as I did they killed themselves. Galbatorix was not pleased but accepted the truth since I spoke it in the ancient language. My tutelage under Galbatorix has also end, he gave me a whole ship business to look over and I did. Every so often I'd give a percentage of my profit to the poor, parts of the empire learned to fear me, and others were grateful for my existence. Sometimes in the back of my mind I'd think about leaving the Empire, but I knew of no where I could go, once I had thought of joining the Varden but why would they accept one like me who killed an uncountable amount of their men? Every time I thought about this my mind reminded me of the witch… be careful of the path I choose, but what path is there for me to choose from?

"Little one… are you afraid?"

"Of what Saphira? Any fear I have I'll toss it straight to you and you can eat it" I tried to lighten the tone a bit

Puffing some smoke out-"if only that applied to Galbatorix too, and you know I'm referring to the witch"

"Saphira, I find fear useless, no matter what I do the future will come and if it is what fate has in store for me I'd have to face it no matter how I try to avoid it. But I will have you along with me the whole time, that brings me all the comfort I'll ever need."

"Little one..it pains me how little this land is, no matter how far we are to go there is no area of isolation. I would bring you to the desert but I doubt you'll find it favorable over there, nor does it have everything that you require." –I looked into her deep sapphire eyes and found sadness

"It is fine… perhaps it is not time yet. Also I am getting a bit better at controlling my powers along with my temper." I gestured to my left eye, although it's still red there were small lines of brown and blue.

" Eragon, why do you keep ingesting poison when I highly doubt anyone will dare to use it upon you."

"Because we don't know of the future, and you never know if one of the Varden's assassins might come after me."

"I'll have them for lunch if they do; whether or not they try to topple Galbatorix from his tiny chair, if they come after you they are no different to me than a deer in the forest."

"Let us get some sleep Saphira it is late, and tomorrow Galbatorix expects us to go flying out on patrol."

"Are you sure you don't want to go to your soft ground? I heard sleeping on normal ground like this is not good for a human's back."

"It is fine, I did lay a rather stuffed blanket under me, and the spring breeze is rather nice tonight. Not to mention any backache can be healed in an instant, shouldn't you more worried about me falling in battle? I mean men with the so called pointy sticks can kill me." I heard her chuckle and patted her snout once more before I drift off to sleep.

~~~Eragon (14)

There have been more and more trading and spy hunts I had to go on, and it seems the Varden's numbers are increasing even more. Galbatorix did not looked to be bothered at all but I was worried, the increase in spies along with trade along with the items they were trading for showed that they could be preparing for war….which meant mother might not be safe…it's been three years now but she is still the women who gave me life it is only proper that I worry for hers. I just finished reporting to Galbatorix and begin making my way back and getting used to the new armor size. It still looked the same as the one he before but this time it was only bigger to suit my growth.

The servants bowed and maids curtsied to me as I passed. I didn't even need to keep my eyes open to see it, I can hear the rustling of their clothes, the stopping of their boots. During the past few months I've been experiencing an increase in my senses and after training myself to sense my surroundings with my eyes closes I found the world to be more detailed than with my eyes open. I was more attentive to every sound, vibration and smell with my eyes closed than with it open. The footsteps were rather normal until I heard one slightly off, one…more..softer than that of a servant. Too soft to be a normal adult, but a child had no business here. Opening my eyes I saw no child before me, instead it was a regular servant and a maid. I followed their movements as they walked closer, tense…tenser than normal, perhaps it was because of who I am but I had an uneasy feeling, especially towards the female. Her footsteps were to light, too graceful, too good to be a normal maid.

"Stop" – I took off my helm and looked at the man guiding the maid.

"Lord Asmodeus, is there something you need that I can fulfill?"

"Who is she?"

"She's the new gardener"

"Oh?"- I eyes traveled over her features, human…but I sensed something a bit off. Her eyes were brown and so were her hair, natural human traits, but still unease tugged at me. I reached out with my mind and as food as I came in contact with hers I can see her eyes narrow and I can feel her fending me off for a moment but then let the walls in her mind slide down. Not wanting to invade her privacy I never brushed alongside her mind, but it was too different, too alien to be human… I looked up at her, she seemed tenser than before and so did the man next to her.

"Well you'll have to find a new gardener, because I'll be taking this one." The man immediately dropped to his knees

"Please I beg you Lord Asmodeus, she's my only child, and has yet to be married. She has no experience in tending to your needs, please I'll find you someone who's much more suitable, just please leave my daughter I beg of you!"

"I have stated what I want; now go find yourself another gardener. I'm sure Galbatorix wouldn't deny me a simple gardener, and even if she has no experience I'm sure I have more than enough experience to share with her. Now leave before I drag you before the king for denying me something so petty. " Sweat dotting his forehead but he got up and left, leaving me alone with the maid.

"Saphira come to the courtyard of Galbatorix's castle now, I'll be close to the entrance soon."

"Little one is something amiss, you seem to be in a bit of a hurry."

"… I am, hurry Saphira"

"Come with me now" – Grabbing hold of her arm I quickened my pace until I reached the courtyard and until I saw Saphira.

"Be honored maid for I'm giving you a ride on my dragoness"- Without giving her a chance to reply I swept her up on my arms and jumped onto Saphira, after strapping her in and sitting down we took off.

"Eragon….I would be really, really, really displeased that even 10 deer's would not make me happy if you made me worry simply because you spotted a maid that seemed pleasing to your eyes"

"Saphira…I don't think she's human, she may look human but her movements and her mind betrays her appearance. I doubt she's a mere gardener. Her footsteps are that of a fighter… she could be an assassin."

"Well….she's not fighting back that's a good thing, and if she's an assassin why did you bring her with you?"

"You know I'm not one to enjoy killing, and if Galbatorix found her, we both know he won't give her mercy purely because she's a woman."

"What do you plan on doing?"

"I'm not sure… but something tells me I should protect her"

"You sure it's not your inner demon that can't wait for the next few days to pass before the full moon?"- by her tone I knew she was teasing me and I sent her a mental glare and heard her chuckle.

"I'll send her away…or try to but I'm not sure how that's possible without being suspicious?"

"Well we're here…finish up this situation before you think about the next"

"Fair enough…"

Saphira landed in her chamber which was right next to mine, and I managed to get into my room without anyone seeing. Locking it I took my helm off and turned around.

Next thing I knew my head hit the wooden door and I could feel my face bruising, cursing under my breath I dodged the "maid's" next punch and murmured a spell to prevent others from hearing us. She went for my neck, too slow; I grabbed her wrist and pushed her onto the ground. She tried kicking me, but seeing how I wore armor to protect all of me, she only served to harm herself. Leaning back, but not quick enough she managed to scratch the side of my right face, growling I slammed her other arm down and positioned myself between her legs to prevent her from kicking certain areas.

"Well well, what do I have here, your certainly not a human, no human has even been quick enough to punch me." It struck me that she could be using a spell to mask her real features. After cancelling out her spell I found that beneath me was no longer the brown hair brown eye human maiden. Her hair was silver, and when I looked into her eyes they were icy blue…..her face was angled and…beautiful even if she looks at me with hatred. Pinning both her hands over her head I used my gloved fingers to push aside her hair to reveal a sharp angular ear.

"Take your hands off of me!" her voice was filled with anger, but no longer was it that of a normal being, no, her voice was more musical, charming, like a siren.

"You're…an elf, what are you doing here?!"

"Trying to get a letch to let go of me before he commits an act that I'll kill him for" my eyes narrowed because I knew exactly who and what she was referring to.

"I wasn't going to commit any "act" for your information. I merely wanted to find out who you were but you were the one who struck me first" I turned my head to let her see the blood seeping out the side of my mouth and the swelling that was beginning to occur.

"As if, you took me to your chambers, and locked the door, what is to be expected when what you do is clearly expressed by your reputation?"

"Perhaps you should get to know me before you judge what the people say"…just another one who judges me before she knows me…"Maybe Eragon, sometimes people have a hard time understanding things…" a voice echoed in the back of my head, shaking it away I looked down. She may be beautiful but I have no doubt she can kill me without a second thought if I allowed her to.

"You're an assassin sent to take the King's life are you not?"

"No"- she spoke this in the ancient language which surprised me but I figured elves must all know the ancient language, they were the original speakers.

"You can't be a mere gardener, no elf would stoop so low as to be the King's gardener, and with your actions you are a fighter."

"Indeed" my eyes narrowed at her refusal to answer my question.

"Who are you, why are you here"-my tone grew more serious

"Answer now, if you know anything about me then know that I can give you worst punishment than simply poisoning you" If she wants to go down this route I'll go along with her. It takes two to have war. I nudged her legs wider just to emphasize what I meant. Her glare only got stronger as she tried to escape from my grip, but her strength was less than mine and I tighten my hold. She started twisting around which only served to irritate me. I slid her skirt up and brushed my hands lightly against her leg.

"Don't make me repeat myself, answer and I might just let you go" her glare didn't subside and I was near my wit's end, I was not about to take her against her will…no matter how much the demons r now stirring inside of me.

"I'm a spy for the Varden, are you pleased now my Lord"

"You're just a spy? Not here to kill?"

"Just to relay information, now you can go run to your king like the loyal dog he trained you to be", this elf was infuriating, beautiful or not.

"I'll let you go, and return to your forest if you promise to never come back."

"Never, my mission is to topple Galbatorix from this throne, you a rider should be on the Varden's side not the King's. He's oppressing the people; mere children are starving in the streets, or are you too deeply embedded with greed to notice?" Noticing that she was calmer I let go of her wrists. She did not strike at me again like I thought she would've, standing up I walked an appropriate length away trying to give her comfort after invading her personal space.

"You do not understand my situation, if you seek to return I cannot allow you to escape."

"He has your true name? And I will either kill Galbatorix for the tortures he handed out to the innocent or die trying."

"No, but I have no doubt he's trying to find it and there are certain things I can obtain from him that I can't from the Varden."

"Oh? Would that be the gold that rightfully belongs to others? Or the women that he gives?" It seems the Varden is well aware of my existence, but seeing how many of their men that I killed it is no surprise.

"Perhaps, but I do not enjoy killing. If you cannot return to the Varden without coming back, and if I let you go only to have you be captured by Galbatorix then the cut and bruise I suffer would be a waste. …..Stay here." I can see her eyebrows raise at my last two words, but I'm not about to have her give up her life…with her here she'll be safe.

"Eragon…"

"Yes Saphira?"

"What if she's sent to kill you?"

"Do not worry, she is not an assassin" – showing Saphira my memories of the past few minutes I can feel her in her own thoughts

"Well.. you almost took your little show a little too far."

"Almost means no, and I wasn't about to truly do anything had she refused to answer…"

"You captured her, her fate is in your hands Eragon, decide but know that keeping her here might bring you danger, without her you already have enough troubles."

"Saphira…would you blame me if I were to tell you that I wish to find a friend? You are more than I can ever ask for but… I'm not sure how to explain it but I feel as if…with her I can atone for what I've done.."

"Little one… do what you must, I will stand by your side even if the whole Alagaësia turn their backs on you…on us"

"Well? I promise staying here will not be laborious… and I can also give you information that you can share with the Varden…"

"How can I believe you?"

"Because I haven't reported you to Galbatorix, and nor are we in my bed, surely for me those are more than enough proof." She eyed me for a while…but I did not show any unease, her stare was much easier to meet than that of Galbatorixs'.

"Swear what you said was true…and that your intentions are pure."

"I swear that my words are true and my intentions are pure"

"Satisfied? The ancient language proves that I'm not lying to you." I can see her relax a bit but more entirely, and I wondered if my previous actions were to blame.

"Is this not betrayal?"- Although she said it seriously I can see the corners of her mouth lift.

"Perhaps it is.."- I allowed the corner of my mouth to lift a bit too…

"You can stay at….at…"- Dam… the servant quarters are filled… new slaves, old slaves, free slaves; damnit Eragon what is with you and slaves, I spoke mentally to myself.

"At?"

"This room"

"Is this not yours?"

"It is..but I'm willing to share"- I could not help but tease her.

"I'm unwilling to share with you"

"Who said I'd stay here?"- at this I allowed myself a smirk as I saw her questioning look once again.

"I'll sleep in Saphira's Chamber"

"Oh,….I was unaware you had women here to satisfy you"

"No, that's the name of my dragon, I have no mistress here in this castle. What is your name?"

"….Rina, but I go by Renée here, may this pact last till his fall"

"May it, I'm…." I was about to say Eragon but… seeing how she'll be reporting back to the Varden I did not want her to report my real name.

"I know…Asmodeus"

"Promise me you won't try to escape?"

"I promise"

After creating a small bed by Saphira's side and getting food, I went back to my chambers and shared with Renée, only to find that she didn't like to eat meat. Thankfully, I had vegetables along with fruits and bread with cheese. I fed Vince raw meat as we ate and although I saw distaste, she did not comment for she knew the falcon had no choice. After telling her that there will be no servants entering I could see the relief in her posture, but I also told her to be careful if she heard a knock on the door. It could only mean misfortune for I would speak to let her know of my presence, and servants will not be at this end of the castle unless I give specific orders.

"Although there are patrolling guards outside at all times, be alert."

"Believe me, I do not need advice from you after being in this earth for more than a century"

I nodded….

"Also…I apologize for my actions this evening."

"You are forgiven, perhaps the Varden has earned a powerful ally."

"I cannot promise the future."

"I know you cannot, but I also know you are not merciless like the others under Galbatorix. You may not be a saint, but you are also not the devil Asmodeus. Your actions are proof of that."

I nodded then left. After arriving by Saphira's side I showed her the memories of the evening and I can feel a bit of joy flowing over from her to me through our link.

"She is not bad Eragon"

"…indeed, but I was surprised that she was willing to stay"

"You are able to give her valuable information"

"I suppose I could be as powerful an ally as I would be a foe."

"Eragon… this creates the possibility that we might not always have to be under Galbatorix"

"I know, but trust is not earned in a few hours."

"When it is earned… let us leave Eragon."

"Yes…"

I looked up at the roof, not sure if it was the new possibilities or my new hopes but the stars seemed brighter and the moon's once eerie glow seem to be a guiding one. Even if she did not know it, the elf brought with her the door to a future that once I consider but knew couldn't head in, with her…that path is no longer closed off.

"Thank you…Rina" I whispered into the night air.

I knew she couldn't hear me but I still felt gratitude for her mere existence….For the first time in a long time I fell asleep under the stars with a smile.

"Come Solembum, the wheels of fate that has been turning slowly before has started to move faster. I believe we have accomplished what we needed and met who we had to. It's time for us to head towards Teirm, we must keep in pace. After all, I'd hate to miss something of relevance."

---

Well I hope you guys enjoyed reading it =) took me more days than I expected because I decided to throw in Angela in there, I know they originally met in Teirm but...let's have them meet somewhere else instead XD.

I also hope that you all enjoyed a small glimpse of Arya ^_^ (and I'm sure that there is no need for me to clarify who the man (elf) was)

If all goes right my next update will be uploaded next Sunday. Feel free to post a review on what you liked, didn't like, constructive critizism and anything else, especially suggestions.