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ItsDaKoolaidDude: Yeah, originally this was meant to be a Star Wars/IC crossover, but then I just decided to go with this and wrote over the Star Wars documents that I had, not sure if I got every mention of Jayden or the Force, so be sure to tell me if you spot it.
Disclaimer: I do not own The Elder Scrolls or The Inheritance Cycle.
As the city receded into the distance, and the travellers were trying to get as far as they could to meet up with Saphira, the dragoness and Daemon were currently discussing when Daemon could assume his dragon form again and go flying with her. The conversation led Eragon to wondering about their growing closeness once more, then he started to wonder about what Solembum said, as well as what Angela said about someone close to him sharing almost the same future.
Was she talking about Daemon?
Curious, Eragon looked at Brom and asked. "What are werecats?"
Brom looked surprised at the question. "Why the sudden curiosity?"
"I heard someone mention them in Teirm. They're not real, are they?" said Eragon, pretending ignorance. Daemon glanced at him but said nothing.
"They are quite real. During the Riders' years of glory, they were as renowned as the dragons. Kings and elves kept them as companions—yet the werecats were free to do what they chose. Very little has ever been known about them. I'm afraid that their race has become rather scarce recently." Brom said.
"Could they use magic?" asked Eragon.
"No one's sure, but they could certainly do unusual things. They always seemed to know what was going on and somehow or another manage to get themselves involved." Brom pulled his hood up to block a chill wind.
"What's Helgrind?" asked Eragon, after a moment's thought.
"You'll see when we get to Dras-Leona."
Eragon nodded, then thought of something and looked at Daemon "Hey Daemon, does Skyrim have werecats?"
"If it does, they are well hidden." Daemon said. "But we do have creatures that are quite similar with the word 'were' in the name. We have creatures known as werewolves."
"Werewolves?" Eragon asked while Brom looked interested. "What are they?"
"They are creatures that roam Skyrim, and are the most commonly known type of lycanthrope found in Tamriel, where they can be found in every province. Werewolves are individuals who assume wolf-like characteristics during the full moon, or in some cases, at will. They transform into wolf-like beasts that can stand on their hind legs, huge claws, teeth, more animal than human for some who don't have control over the beast side. They are very dangerous, especially those that give into the animal side and lose all control. A couple of my friends back home happen to be werewolves themselves?"
"Really?" Eragon asked with awe in his eyes.
Daemon nodded. "I lead a mercenary group known as the Companions, where we show up to take care of problems if the coin is good. Only members of the Circle are werewolves, to become a member you have to be offered the beast blood to become a werewolf. I was offered it myself not long after I became a Companion, but I refused. I had learned I was Dragonborn and decided the blood of a dragon was enough for me."
"Are there any other types of lycanthropy in your lands?" Brom asked curiously.
"There are. There's werebears, werecrocodiles, werelions, werebats, weresharks, werevultures and wereboars."
When Teirm was out of sight, Eragon reached out with his mind and called, Saphira! The force of his mental shout was so strong that Cadoc flicked his ears in annoyance.
Saphira answered and sped toward them with all of her strength. They watched as a dark blur rushed from a cloud, then heard a dull roar as Saphira's wings flared open. The sun shone behind the thin membranes, turning them translucent and silhouetting the dark veins. She landed with a blast of air.
Eragon tossed Cadoc's reins to Brom. "I'll join you for lunch."
Brom nodded, but seemed preoccupied. "Have a good time," he said, then looked at Saphira and smiled as she gave Daemon a greeting nuzzle, making him chuckle. "It's good to see you again."
And you too. Saphira replied to the storyteller then looked at Daemon. Daemon, would you like to join us?
Daemon immediately went to say yes but paused as something came to mind, something he wanted to speak to Brom about and he glanced at the old man for a second before looking at Saphira with a small smile. "Sorry, Saphira, I'll have to skip out on this one. There's something I need to speak with Brom about." the old man looked surprised but nodded.
Oh, okay. Saphira said, trying to hide her disappointment but then she asked with hope. Later, then?
Oh yeah, you owe me a rematch. Daemon said playfully, sending her the mental image of their last playful fight and she hummed in response and gave him a very enthusiastic nuzzle.
I look forward to it.
Eragon hopped onto Saphira's shoulders and held on tightly as she bounded upward. Daemon and Brom watched her go before Brom spoke. "So, what did you want to speak with me about?"
"About a dream that I had..."
With the wind at her tail, Saphira sliced through the air. Hold on, she warned Eragon, and letting out a wild bugle, she soared in a great loop. Eragon yelled with excitement as he flung his arms in the air, holding on only with his legs.
I didn't know I could stay on while you did that without being strapped into the saddle, he said, grinning fiercely.
Neither did I, admitted Saphira, laughing in her peculiar way. Eragon hugged her tightly, and they flew a level path, masters of the sky.
By noon his legs were sore from riding bareback, and his hands and face were numb from the cold air. Saphira's scales were always warm to the touch, but she could not keep him from getting chilled. When they landed for lunch, he buried his hands in his clothes and found a warm, sunny place to sit. As he, Daemon and Brom ate, Eragon asked Saphira, Do you mind if I ride Cadoc? He had decided to question Brom further about his past.
No, but tell me what he says. Eragon was not surprised that Saphira knew his plans. It was nearly impossible to hide anything from her when they were mentally linked. Nor could she keep anything from him, such as the sense of excitement she was feeling as she came up to Daemon and nudged him to get his attention, growling playfully.
"Can I help you?" Daemon asked, looking quite amused as Saphira continued to growl playfully, crouching low and inviting him to play. "Alright, give me a few seconds."
As he did before, he undressed until he was just in his pants, everything else removed, and began the transformation into a dragon. This time, he had Eragon and Brom staring in amazement as he transformed until the male dragon was in his place.
Now that's a welcome sight. Saphira teased.
Daemon faced her and growled playfully, crouching low, causing Saphira to do the same and growl back. The two circled at each other before Daemon lunged, causing Saphira to do the same. However, it proved to have been a trick as Daemon leaped to the side, causing Saphira to crash and slid along the ground, kicking up dirt and grass everywhere.
Try and keep up, slowpoke! Daemon told her and took off into the air.
I'll get you for that! Saphira roared and took off after him. Eragon and Brom watched until they could no longer see the dragons.
"They're quite a pair, aren't they?" Eragon chuckled.
"That they are." Brom said with a smile before looking at Eragon. "You and him are more alike than you know." Eragon looked at him with a frown. "I know you want to ask me something, go ahead."
Eragon paused. "There's a lot going on that I don't understand. For instance, who are your 'friends,' and why were you hiding in Carvahall? I trust you with my life—which is why I'm still traveling with you—but I need to know more about who you are and what you are doing. What did you steal in Gil'ead, and what is the tuatha du orothrim that you're taking me through? I think that after all that's happened, I deserve an explanation."
"You eavesdropped on us."
"Only once," said Eragon.
"I see that you have yet to learn proper manners," said Brom grimly, tugging on his beard. "What makes you think that this concerns you?"
"Nothing, really," said Eragon shrugging. "Just it's an odd coincidence that you happened to be hiding in Carvahall when I found Saphira's egg and that you also know so much dragonlore. The more I think about it, the less likely it seems. There were other clues that I mostly ignored, but they're obvious now that I look back. Like how you knew of the Ra'zac in the first place and why they ran away when you approached. And I can't help but wonder if you had something to do with the appearance of Saphira's egg. There's a lot you haven't told us, and Daemon, Saphira and I can't afford to ignore anything that might be dangerous."
Dark lines appeared on Brom's forehead as he reined Snowfire to a halt. "You won't wait?" he asked. Eragon shook his head mulishly. Brom sighed. "This wouldn't be a problem if you weren't so suspicious, but I suppose that you wouldn't be worth my time if you were otherwise." Eragon was unsure if he should take that as a compliment. Brom lit his pipe and slowly blew a plume of smoke into the air. "I'll tell you," he said, "but you have to understand that I cannot reveal everything." Eragon started to protest, but Brom cut him off. "It's not out of a desire to withhold information, but because I won't give away secrets that aren't mine. There are other stories woven in with this narrative. You'll have to talk with the others involved to find out the rest."
"Very well. Explain what you can," said Eragon.
Come on! Is that all you've got? Daemon taunted the dragoness, who was becoming a little infuriated with his taunts and managed to catch up with him. Since leaving Eragon and Brom, the two had been continuing this race for quite some time now. Neither wanted to give up until they felt like it, it was a competition and they felt very competitive.
How's this?! Saphira surprised her male companion by swooping underneath him, then flew up right in front of him which nearly made him go out of control but he righted himself and growled as she sent a smug look at him before flying off with him on her tail. He snapped at her tail as he came close, his sense of smug victory making him strike perhaps a little sooner than he should of. But suddenly, Saphira arched her back, beating her wings as she bent herself backwards, twisting and flipping through the air in a tight loop-de-loop, bringing herself upside down above him.
Their eyes met as she sailed over him, a twinkle of mischief sparkling in her bright blue eyes. With a twist of her body, she spun herself back up the right way, her closeness to him making sure that she wacked him in the face with her tail as she went past. Daemon roared at the stinging pain, knowing that that was harder than playfully necessary. That had been on purpose! But suddenly, he felt a sting on his back, right between his shoulder blades as he felt teeth bite into his scales, though nowhere near hard enough to pierce his tough hide.
He turned his head to watch Saphira as she winged her way behind him at a fast pace, though she looked over her shoulder with a toothy grin.
Is this meant to be the test? She called, her tone playful but filled with mockery.
Daemon twisted himself at such a right angle. He managed turn himself completely around, thrusting his wings down so hard they released a sound like a thunderclap, shooting him forward with unrivalled speed. He came bearing down on the female, eyes narrowing as he closed in on her position, readying himself for the moment when he would strike.
Saphira saw him coming however, And beat her wings as she tried to speed ahead. Daemon's velocity still brought him right up behind her, and as he drew close, he reared back, talons on his front feet flexing as he moved like a bird of prey ready to scoop up his victim. Saphira only had to turn her head to see him, and quickly twisted herself in just the right way to evade his grasp before further increasing her speed.
Daemon snarled in frustration, levelling himself out as he pumped his wings to race after her. The pair of them darted through the sky, twisting in and out of the clouds, soaring and diving as they played their almost deadly game of tag. Daemon tried multiple times to try and snap at her in his attempts to catch her, and whilst he could easily keep pace with her, Saphira always managed to be that tiny bit faster, elusively keeping herself just out of reach. The game had become a true challenge for Daemon, and it was quite a fun experience if he dare say so himself. But his draconic pride refused to lose, nor face a slow challenger so he had to taunt.
Come on, let's see what you got! He shouted to her.
You want speed? Here we go! He heard her grin as her voice rang in his mind. And then, Saphira suddenly pointed herself upwards as she quickly ascended into the heavens, twisting in tight circle as she got higher and higher. Daemon flew up to find her, only for his eyes to widen when a sapphire-scaled blur came shooting out the clouds and slammed right into him, sending them falling towards the ground. When they were mere meters above the ground, they both flared their wings so as not to smack into the ground, landed roughly, and rolled down a small hill, their bodies a tangle of wings, tails and legs.
When they came to a stop, Saphira lay sprawled on top of Daemon's chest, their legs and tails all entwined. Both dragons laughed in their heads and with their strange, coughing growls; each of them lost in the sheer bliss and joy of their play. Once they regained their composure, they took note of each other's positions. Saphira was sprawled on Daemon's chest, her legs on either side of him, wings plopped down over his own and her muzzle inches away from his own. The dragons quickly scrambled to their feet and away from each other, both flushing in embarrassment as their cheeks gained a red hue.
I, uh... Daemon cleared his throat, feeling an awkward feeling in the air. Guess you won that one.
Guess I did. Saphira said, not looking at him. She stared at the ground for a bit, then dared to look at him, only to find he had been looking at her and looked away when she noticed. An awkward moment passed as neither dragon said anything more. Saphira played with her claws in the dirt, then finally mustered the courage to break the silence. Do you... do you want to go again? Play some more? A feeling of unease settled in her stomach. One one hand she hoped he'd say yes. She enjoyed spending time with him, and the brawling and flying they did help keep them in shape as well as not let their skills go to rust. On the other hand, she wanted him to say no. Something was changing between them, and it was happening too fast for either of them to comprehend. She couldn't ignore that deep feeling she got when she had been that close to Daemon, in that position, but she supposed it was because he was a male dragon, and an admittedly handsome one at that. Her mind flashed back to her dream gain, but she pushed it away. It was not like that, she assured herself. Daemon was her friend. The two of them were just...unused to being that close, and was understandably awkward at first. They were just playing after all.
What she was unaware of, was that Daemon was thinking the same things. he enjoyed being with Saphira, but they were friends, nothing more. His mind told him that it was best he try to keep it as a friendship, so he didn't have to feel the pain he'd feel if he lost her... but she was a close friend of his, so he'd feel it regardless? And Sure, things between them were a little different due to him being a dragon, but it's not like that meant they had to- Stop that! He scolded himself. He didn't want to hurt Saphira's feelings, but he knew he had to stop this awkwardness before something happened that one or both of them regretted.
Inhaling deeply, he exhaled and pretended to look at the sky which also gave him an excuse to end this. No... we, we should get back to Eragon and Brom before it gets any later.
Relief poured through Saphira, though she did it well from Daemon, and nodded. Silently, both dragons took off into the air and flew back the way they came. But this time, there was a noticeable gap between them.
The two found where Eragon and Brom made camp, and as soon as they landed Daemon transformed back to his human form and quickly got dressed in the rest of his Nightingale armour while Saphira laid herself near Eragon and away from Daemon, neither looking at each other. This was not lost on either Eragon or Brom, with the young Rider looking back and fourth between the two with confusion. Brom turned his head away... so that neither would see the small, knowing grin on his face.
Eragon asked them if things were alright, to which they gave a curt "Fine!" in response. Confused, Eragon let it go. Whatever was going on between them, he really didn't need to deal with it after Brom had told him about the going ons in Alagaësia. To keep his mind off it, Eragon searched for water while Brom made dinner. He rubbed his hands together for warmth as he walked in a large circle, listening for a creek or spring. It was gloomy and damp between the trees.
He found a stream a ways from the camp, then crouched on the bank and watched the water splash over the rocks, dipping in his fingertips. The icy mountain water swirled around his skin, numbing it. It doesn't care what happens to us, or anyone else, thought Eragon. He shivered and stood.
An unusual print on the opposing stream bank caught his attention. It was oddly shaped and very large. Curious, he jumped across the stream and onto a rock shelf. As he landed, his foot hit a patch of damp moss. He grabbed a branch for support, but it broke, and he thrust out his hand to break his fall. He felt his right wrist crack as he hit the ground. Pain lanced up his arm.
A steady stream of curses came out from behind his clenched teeth as he tried not to howl. Half blind with pain, he curled on the ground, cradling his arm. Eragon! came Saphira's alarmed cry. What happened?
Broke my wrist... did something stupid... fell.
I'm coming, said Saphira.
No—I can make it back. Don't... come. Trees too close for... wings.
She sent him a brief image of her tearing the forest apart to get at him, then said, Hurry.
Groaning, he staggered upright. The print was pressed deeply into the ground a few feet away. It was the mark of a heavy, nail-studded boot. Eragon instantly remembered the tracks that had surrounded the pile of bodies in Yazuac. "Urgal," he spat, wishing that Zar'roc was with him; he could not use his bow with only one hand. His head snapped up, and he shouted with his mind, Saphira! Urgals! Keep Brom and Daemon safe.
Eragon leapt back over the stream and raced toward their camp, yanking out his hunting knife. He saw potential enemies behind every tree and bush. I hope there's only one Urgal. He burst into the camp, ducking as Saphira's tail swung overhead. "Stop. It's me!" he yelled.
Oops, said Saphira. Her wings were folded in front of her chest like a wall.
"Oops?" growled Eragon, running to her. "You could've killed me! Where's Brom and Daemon?"
"Back here!" Daemon's muffled voice came from behind Saphira's wing, along with a muffled growl from Brom.
"Tell your crazy dragon to release us; she won't listen to me." The old man growled.
"Let them go!" said Eragon, exasperated. "Didn't you tell them?"
No, she said sheepishly. You just said to keep them safe. She lifted her wings, and both Daemon and Brom stepped forward angrily.
"I found an Urgal footprint. And it's fresh."
Brom immediately turned serious and looked at Daemon. "Ready the horses, we're leaving." Daemon nodded and went to do so while Brom noticed Eragon's arm. "What's wrong with your arm?"
"My wrist is broken," he said, swaying.
Daemon cursed and helped Eragon onto Cadoc's the saddle, then ran to saddle Shadowmere. Brom got on Snowfire and looked at Saphira. "It's almost dark; you might as well fly right overhead. If Urgals show up, they will think twice about attacking with you so near."
They'd better, or else they won't think again. She leaned in, gave Eragon a quick lick, locked eyes with Daemon, and then took off.
The light was disappearing quickly, and the horses were tired, but they spurred them on without respite. Eragon's wrist, swollen and red, continued to throb. A mile from the camp, Brom halted. "Listen," he said.
They heard the faint call of a hunting horn behind them. As it fell silent, panic gripped them all. "They must have found where we were," said Brom, "and probably Saphira's tracks. They will chase us now. It's not in their nature to let prey escape." Then two horns winded. They were closer. A chill ran through Eragon. "Our only chance is to run," said Brom. He raised his head to the sky, and his face blanked as he called Saphira.
She rushed out of the night sky and landed. "Leave Cadoc. Go with her. You'll be safer," commanded Brom.
"What about you?" Eragon protested.
"We'll be fine." Daemon grunted, pushing Eragon over to Saphira's saddle. "Now go!" Once Eragon was on Saphira's saddle, Daemon and Brom urged the horses onwards. Saphira flew after them, flapping above the galloping horses.
Eragon clung to Saphira as best he could; he winced whenever her movements jostled his wrist. The horns blared nearby, bringing a fresh wave of terror. Brom and Daemon crashed through the underbrush, forcing the horses to their limits. The horns trumpeted in unison close behind him, then were quiet.
Minutes passed. Where are the Urgals? wondered Eragon. A horn sounded, this time in the distance. He sighed in relief, resting against Saphira's neck, while on the ground Brom and Daemon slowed their headlong rush. That was close, said Eragon.
Yes, but we cannot stop until— Saphira was interrupted as a horn blasted directly underneath them. Eragon jerked in surprise, and his two companions below resumed their frenzied retreat. Horned Urgals, shouting with coarse voices, barreled along the trail on horses, swiftly gaining ground. They were almost in sight of Brom and Daemon; the two could not outrun them. We have to do something! exclaimed Eragon.
What?
Land in front of the Urgals!
Are you crazy? demanded Saphira.
Land! I know what I'm doing, said Eragon. There isn't time for anything else. They're going to overtake Brom and Daemon!
Very well. Saphira pulled ahead of the Urgals, then turned, preparing to drop onto the trail. Eragon reached for his power and felt the familiar resistance in his mind that separated him from the magic. He did not try to breach it yet. A muscle twitched in his neck.
As the Urgals pounded up the trail, he shouted, "Now!" Saphira abruptly folded her wings and dropped straight down from above the trees, landing on the trail in a spray of dirt and rocks.
The Urgals shouted with alarm and yanked on their horses' reins. The animals went stiff-legged and collided into each other, but the Urgals quickly untangled themselves to face Saphira with bared weapons. Hate crossed their faces as they glared at her. There were twelve of them, all ugly, jeering brutes. Eragon wondered why they did not flee. He had thought that the sight of Saphira would frighten them away. Why are they waiting? Are they going to attack us or not?
He was shocked when the largest Urgal advanced and spat, "Our master wishes to speak with you, human!" The monster spoke in deep, rolling gutturals.
It's a trap, warned Saphira before Eragon could say anything. Don't listen to him.
At least let's find out what he has to say, he reasoned, curious, but extremely wary. "Who is your master?" he asked.
The Urgal sneered. "His name does not deserve to be given to one as low as yourself. He rules the sky and holds dominance over the earth. You are no more than a stray ant to him. Yet he has decreed that you shall be brought before him, alive. Take heart that you have become worthy of such notice!"
"I'll never go with you nor any of my enemies!" declared Eragon, thinking of Yazuac. "Whether you serve Shade, Urgal, or some twisted fiend I've not heard of, I have no wish to parley with him."
"That is a grave mistake," growled the Urgal, showing his fangs. "There is no way to escape him. Eventually you will stand before our master. If you resist, he will fill your days with agony."
Eragon wondered who had the power to bring the Urgals under one banner. Was there a third great force loose in the land—along with the Empire and the Varden? "Keep your offer and tell your master that the crows can eat his entrails for all I care!"
Rage swept through the Urgals; their leader howled, gnashing his teeth. "We'll drag you to him, then!" He waved his arm and the Urgals rushed at Saphira. Raising his right hand, Eragon barked, "Jierda!"
No! cried Saphira, but it was too late.
The monsters faltered as Eragon's palm glowed. Beams of light lanced from his hand, striking each of them in the gut. The Urgals were thrown through the air and smashed into trees, falling senseless to the ground.
Fatigue suddenly drained Eragon of strength, and he tumbled off Saphira. His mind felt hazy and dull. As Saphira bent over him, he realized that he might have gone too far. The energy needed to lift and throw twelve Urgals was enormous. Fear engulfed him as he struggled to stay conscious.
At the edge of his vision he saw one of the Urgals stagger to his feet, sword in hand. Eragon tried to warn Saphira, but he was too weak. No... he thought feebly. The Urgal crept toward Saphira until he was well past her tail, then raised his sword to strike her neck. No!...
Suddenly, a sword flew through the air and impaled the Urgal through the chest. A second was burned by a stream of fire. The last thing Eragon saw before he lost consciousness was Daemon jumping into the fray, fire shooting from his left hand and fighting off the Urgals with Saphira.
Ripping his sword out of a dead Urgal, Daemon met the others and began to slash at them. Unlike what happened at Yazuc, Daemon was stronger and faster, and easily cut down the Urgals as they tried to defend themselves. Blood stained the ground and Daemon's blade, some of it even splattered onto him but he ignored it.
The rest of the Urgal raiding party began to retreat and fled into the forest. Daemon did not pursue them, he returned to Brom and Saphira' side and cursed upon seeing Eragon unconscious. Brom was checking on him and Saphira was beside herself with sheathed his sword.
"He's alive." Brom said, sending some relief through the party but Daemon still had a panicking dragoness to calm and he went over to her.
I should have stopped him! She sniffled, a tear falling down her cheek as she glanced at her Rider and her heart flared with guilt, believing she had caused this. Daemon could feel her lament as she linked her mind with his for comfort.
Saphira... Daemon began.
I should have seen what he was going to do. I could have...I could -
A sensation, similar to the one felt in Teirm when Saphira slept beside him, flared inside him and he found himself gripping Saphira's cheeks and turning her head to look him in the eye. That's enough! He said sternly, but softly as well. This is not your fault, Saphira.
But I...
Stop, he said gently. What's done is done, we can't change that now. He sent her soothing thoughts and tried to comfort her. The important thing is that he is alive. Saphira felt her despair wash away as Daemon's warm mind enveloped hers. She still was struck with worry and looked back at Brom, who had his hand on Eragon's brow trying to determine his condition.
"He's going to be okay, Saphira, but he'll be out for a while." Brom said with a sigh. "I told him not to use too much energy!"
"But he's safe and fine nonetheless." Daemon argued, for Saphira's sake more than their own and he turned to the dragoness. A feeling of protectiveness welled inside him, something about her tears made him frown... he didn't like to see her cry. He hugged her snout and she hummed at his comfort. Now stop with the tears, they don't fit with those beautiful eyes of yours. He released her snout and walked over to Brom, leaving a stunned dragoness who was stunned at his words, his compliment, and suddenly she didn't feel so terrible anymore as she looked at him.
"What do we do now?" Daemon asked to Brom.
"We can't let them report our position to the enemy or else we'll have more trouble to worry about." The old man said harshly. "We'll find a safe place to hide and then we shall go and kill the rest of those fowl creatures."
Daemon nodded. "But first, we should find somewhere safe and secure to make camp and put Eragon there. We can't deal with the Urgals while worrying for his safety."
The rest of the night was spent with locating another campsite and making sure Eragon was safe. When it was nearly morning, Brom left with Snowfire to look for the Urgals while Daemon, atop of Saphira, traversed the skies. The two silently agreed to ignore the issues between them, focusing on the more serious matter that required their attention right now.
Eragon twisted underneath the blankets, dreading to open his eyes. He dozed slightly, and as the world became clear, a thought entered his mind, How did I end up here? Eragon laid upon the ground confused before he finally regain the memory of last night's attack. The Urgals! He attempted to sit himself up right but every inch of his body refused, it was extremely exhausted. With extreme effort, he slowly sat forward letting his body hang forward. He surveyed his surroundings.
He lay in a small clearing that was isolated from the world. In the center was a small bonfire with a pot filled with stew. His bow, quiver, and Zar'roc laid parallel to his bedroll. However, no one was in the camp. Where is everyone? he wondered desperately. He stretched out his mind and tried to call out to Saphira. Eragon worried in alarm when he could not sense her presence. Ravenous hunger gripped him, so he walked over to the pot of stew and helped himself to several bowls.
With nothing better to do, Eragon rolled up the bedroll and sat against a tall oak tree growing at the edge of the camp. Hours passed and still there was no sign of anyone approaching the campsite – not Brom, Daemon or Saphira. I sure hope that they are okay. As the morning turned into the afternoon, Eragon's apprehension got the better of him. Searching around the perimeter of the encampment, Eragon was hoping he'd find the key to ending his worries. Outside of sight of the camp, Eragon stumbled upon a boulder with a bowl-shaped depression filled with clear water from the morning dew. Finally!
Reflecting back to the travels from Teirm, Eragon remembered Brom's lecture over a special usage for magic: scrying. Scrying is the ability to use magic and observe a person through a clear surface such as water, Eragon thought to himself. It takes a lot of energy to sustain from what Brom said…But I am stronger than he thinks I am.
He breathed deeply and closed his mind. Remembering what Brom said, Eragon formed a picture of Saphira in his mind, making it as life-like as possible. It was mentally taxing, something Eragon was quite surprised about it. With a clear voice he said, "Draumr kópa!" and gazed upon the small pool of water. Its surface completely stood still, frozen by magic. The image of Eragon's reflection disappeared and it shimmered to a picture of Saphira. The landscape around her were clouded by a white fog, the only image visible was his dragon. However, he could see that she was flying and Daemon sat on her back. His face and outfit were covered with blood and grime.
The cost of maintaining the spell was taking its toll on Eragon, his strength was beginning to fade. Eragon quickly let the image fade to preserve his strength. Even though his body was sore beyond belief, they were tense as Eragon worried about his companions. Finally knowing that they were safe, he was able to let his body relax. Leaning back onto the oak tree, Eragon spent a long time sighing in content to just be able to sit and relax. All of a sudden, a crazy idea struck him. What if I scry something I created with my imagination or saw in a dream? He smiled. Maybe I can see what my own consciousness looks like.
There was not a force in Alagaesia that could stop the temptation. Eragon spent some time considering certain images but threw them aside when he remembered the dream about the woman in the cell. After fixing on the scene in his mind, he spoke the words and watched the water intently. After several moments, nothing happened. Eragon was half ready to release the magic when the pool of water began to darken. He stared on in disbelief. A single candle flicked in the darkness and illuminated a dark, damp, stone cell. The woman from his dreams was curled up on a cot in one corner and lifted her head, dark hair falling back.
No way…This is impossible! He froze, the force of her gaze kept Eragon in place. Her dark emerald green eyes locked in with his. Then the woman trembled and collapsed onto the cot. The water returned to its original state and Eragon's disbelief was growing. "She can't be real! I've only seen her in my dreams!"
The air around him grew heavy and a vibration shook through it. The rhythmic thump of Saphira's wings interrupted him. Eragon turned and hurried back to the clearing, arriving just in time as Saphira landed. Daemon was still on his back and still covered with dirt and blood. "What happened?" asked Eragon, afraid that Daemon had been injured.
Daemon dismounted from Saphira, climbing down her shoulder. He approached Eragon and produced a serious look. Upon closer inspection, Eragon noticed how tired Daemon looked. It seemed he hardly gotten any sleep.
"What were you thinking, Eragon?" said Daemon harshly. "Do you truly understand the consequences of your actions?"
"I stopped the Urgals from catching you and Brom," said Eragon, his body was beginning to tremble.
"You nearly died!" Daemon shouted, causing Eragon to recoil in shock. Daemon took several deep breaths, trying to calm down. "You used too much energy, you overexerted yourself, and with powers like ours, it can kill us! Using too much energy when your body isn't ready to handle it can kill you, Eragon! I made that mistake once when I attempted to use a Thu'um that I wasn't ready for, and it nearly killed me as well!" Eragon looked down at his friend's words, ashamed of himself. "Brom, Saphira and I have spent the past day searching for the Urgals that escaped. Brom determined that there were twelve that managed to escape." Motioning to himself and Saphira, he continued, "We managed to track down and kill six of them. I hope that Brom managed to find the rest." Daemon returned his attention to Saphira and unbelted her saddle and placed it onto the ground.
Eragon wasn't sure what to say. He didn't fully comprehend the magnitude of the situation. He was only concerned for the storyteller and the Dragonborn. And as such he wanted to protect them… Even if that meant putting Saphira and yourself in harms ways? Eragon slightly began to understand Daemon's words.
"I'm sorry," he said. It was the only words Eragon could muster at the moment.
Daemon stopped what he was doing and leaned his forehead against Saphira's side, taking several deep breaths to calm his anger and he faced Eragon with a softer, but still stern look. "I sometimes forget how young you are. I was similar at your age, reckless use of the power I wielded. But... dammit, you worried us, Eragon. Saphira was beside herself, I was nearly ready to join her but had to keep my composure. Every action we commit causes serious effects. What's more important is that we must accept the consequences and live with them the rest of our lives."
"I was just trying to keep them from getting to you." Eragon said quietly.
Daemon stared at him for a moment before walking over and pulling him into a brotherly hug. "I know you were. Admirable of you, least you didn't do it out of arrogance like other would've if they had powers like ours. But you must understand this, Eragon, too much use of your power before your body is ready to handle it... it will destroy you. At best, it will leave you out cold for a few days, at worse... it'll kill you. Understand?"
Eragon nodded, seeing what Daemon was trying to tell him. Daemon rubbed his shoulder and pulled away, grimacing at the sight of his state. "I need to wash."
"How... how's Brom?" Eragon asked.
"Beyond mad." Was the answer he got.
it wasn't long before Brom returned on Snowfire. His face was contorted; the edges of his beard stained red. His blade was laid upon his lap and it too was coated in blood. As soon as Brom saw Eragon, his face boiled to a deep red, much like the blood that coated his body and he roared out in anger. "You boy are in for a world of pain! I've been trying to clean up your mess!" He dismounted from Snowfire and tethered the horses around a tree. Slashing out in the air with his sword, the blood was flung off the cool steel. "Do you truly understand the trouble you put us through last night? Do you?"
Daemon stayed out of this and stood next to Saphira, putting a hand on her side and she hummed at his touch.
Eragon was thankful Daemon had warned him about Brom being angry and the words he shared with him, for he faced Brom firmly. "I do. Even though I was concerned for both you and Daemon, I acted without thinking of the consequences. I put not only my life but Saphira's as well. And that's something I feel horrible about; I would never put Saphira, in danger willingly. And this experience just shows me that I am not fit to call myself a Dragon Rider…. I am sorry – all of you…" Eragon humbly bowed so his upper body was parallel to the ground to Brom.
Brom was left speechless, his mouth wide open and his face still red as an apple. What tirade he had, died when Eragon gave his apology. He looked down at the boy with rage filled eyes, but slowly, the fire began to dwindle slightly. Releasing a defeated growl, Brom said, "Get up Eragon. Daemon, next time do not warn Eragon about my need to scold him for his recklessness."
"You would've been harsher on him had I not done so and warned him about repeating his actions." Daemon retorted firmly, not regretting what he did. "If anyone knows about the mistake he made, it's me. I've done similar when I was his age. Look, he's sorry for what he did, accept it and move on. Did you get the rest of the Urgals?"
"I did." Brom grunted, sitting down. "Though it wasn't easy. Three escaped. Did you and Saphira have any luck?"
"Killed every single one we could find." Daemon said darkly and Saphira gave an equally dark growl in agreement.
Shivering, Eragon asked softly, "What happens now?"
There was an uncomfortable pause. "Your arm is going to take at least a couple of weeks to heal." Brom said. "That time would be well spent forging some sense into you. I suppose this is partially my fault. I've been teaching you how to do things, but not whether you should. It takes discretion, something you obviously lack. All the magic in Alagaësia won't help you if you don't know when to use it."
"But we're still going to Dras-Leona, right?" asked Eragon.
Brom rolled his eyes. "Yes, we can keep looking for the Ra'zac, but even if we find them, it won't do any good until you've healed."
"For now, it's best we all rest." Daemon said with a look at both of them. "We've been busy lately, and we're all exhausted. For now, we sleep and worry about things tomorrow."
Brom and Eragon were too exhausted to argue against him and agreed. They settled down for the night, Saphira curling around Eragon and Daemon with her tail wrapping around her Rider comfortingly.
Do not ever do that again, Eragon. You had me worried, all of us worried. Saphira said softly, but her voice was still firm to make it clear she wasn't happy with his actions. I'm just glad you are alright, little one. You had me so worried, she nuzzled him softly.
I'm sorry Saphira. Believe me, I don't plan on doing it again.
See that you don't, she chided him. She lay her head on her paws as the three lapsed into companionable silence.
A sudden thought then came to Saphira and she glanced at Daemon. When she had been beside herself, practically in tears at Eragon's state after his actions, Daemon had been there to comfort her unlike anything she could have expected from him previously, even called her eyes 'beautiful'. His feelings of concern and care for her were no illusion, and she was very grateful for his support. Something like that wouldn't have happened between them a month ago, but things were beginning to change between her and Daemon. She could no longer deny that. There was their moments of closeness, such as when they were sprawled out together and when the awkwardness started. She knew they were starting to become more than friends, but she didn't know where they stood right now and that was concerning. It was something she'd have to try and address with him.
Daemon? She said hesitantly.
Yes, Saphira? He looked at her.
She shifted, unsure whether to proceed with her question. If she did, then it would prove that things between them were not just a close friendship as they believed, but she could not let it go unsaid anymore. Did you... mean what you said, when you called my eyes... beautiful? Do you... really think that?
Daemon froze at her question and felt himself blush as his mind brought that moment up. He didn't know what had caused it, the words had came from his mind before he could comprehend them or stop them. There had been a strong urge and feeling telling him to say it and he had done so. he knew he and Saphira had crossed the line beyond friendship, but he didn't know what was next, or what was happening... and that scared him. His mind told him to not let it progress any further, that it was simply his dragon instincts, that it could damage things between them if he let it.. that it was best he kept her at arm's length.
That feeling was back. He one he didn't know if it was him or some dragon instinct talking. He mentally shrugged, allowing that strange sensation to have its way again.
Yes...I did. And you do.
Saphira's stomach jumped. Um, th...thank you.
You're welcome, he replied simply.
The two fell silent after that, each wrestling with themselves. Okay, they definitely were not just friends anymore. But it didn't mean there was anything between them. Unknowingly, they came to the same conclusion, believing this was the cause of their dragon instincts because Saphira was female and Daemon was male, and they were the only two dragons around.
They were just friends, and that's how it will stay. How it will remain...
Yeah... we'll see about that.