A/N: Again, with the sharp flying objects. I am the only one who has the right rambling brain to write this, so bear with me. Inspiration goes to IndigoDragonRider, check that guy out, please. And many thanks to Restrained Freedom, I am sorry I rambled too much. XP. Anyhow...
DISCLAIMERS: I, FalconFate, am NOT CP. If I were, would this be a fanfic? No. It would be out in stores. As such, I do not own Murtagh, Thorn, Eragon, Eragon, Saphira or Bid'daum. Or Arya, or Fìrnen, or Nasuada.
CLAIMERS: I do, however, as FalconFate, own Raven, Shadefire, the wolves, and another dragon who will come along at a later date. I will actually own all other dragons that are not the ones listed above, so... Yeah.
Again, THANK YOU Restrained Freedom. This one's for you.
Secrets of Life
Chapter Six
Shifted
As Raven turned and headed into the forest, she could hear Murtagh and the wolves following. After they had gone in a ways, she broke into a run, and, as soon as she heard the others follow suit, melted into a tree-dodging sprint. After several minutes, she closed her eyes and shifted, clothes melting into thick fur, her daggers moving to become sharp claws on her hind paws, her swords turning into black metal claws on her front. Behind her, she heard a sharp snarl of surprise, and looked back a moment, dodging a tree as she did so.
Murtagh had turned into a wolf. He was solidly built with long, powerful legs, a long thick tail, and powerful shoulders. His fur was a dark reddish brown, almost, but not quite, black. His gray eyes were set like a far-seer, like hers, and could probably see like an eagle. His sword, Zar'roc, had turned into crimson metal claws, and the knife he must have had had turned into sharp hind claws. He was slightly larger than her, which was fine. In fact, she thought, it would give several opportunities for training. She would just have to ask Tempest for help.
They kept running, Maelstrom at the front with Raven, Storm following close behind with Murtagh. As they made a gradual rightward curve, Raven kept her ears pricked, and senses sharp, wary of danger. After several minutes, she suddenly turned left up a steep mountain trail, clawed feet easily finding purchase on the stony path. As they switchbacked up the mountain, the wind grew colder and fiercer, until it was practically buffeting them.
Finally, they reached the top, where the wind was a twisting gale, pulling at Raven's long, thick fur. Already, it was starting to snow lightly. Not enough to make ice, but just enough that her warm fur was quickly soaked, although that just made it warmer. As soon as her companions reached her, she threw back her head and howled, an almighty sound that echoed through the mountains. Around her, she heard Maelstrom and Storm howl as well, and after a quick hesitation, Murtagh also.
When she finally stopped, Raven turned to Murtagh, and then asked, "Well?"
Except she didn't speak. The language of Wolves is hard to master with the human tongue, but comes naturally as a wolf. It is not just snarls and growls, whimpers and barks, yaps and squeaks. It is also the cock of an ear, the twitch of a tail, and the bristling of fur. Raven knew that he understood her, just didn't know how to respond. She knew she had had much the same reaction thirteen years ago.
Finally Murtagh seemed to find the words and actions. "It is a great gift, Raven. Do you have other surprises for me, or will you continually have me face challenges and surprises until I have nothing but my own words to trust?" To this, Raven just winked and wheeled around back to the path, sprinting, but more carefully this time. She knew that this was not even close to the end of surprises.
When they reached the valley, it was to find Thorn and Shadefire resting together in a heap, with tails twined around each other and Thorn's head resting on Shadefire's throat. Something happen while we were out? teased Raven.
Actually, you will be pleased to know he asked. And what could I say but yes? Shadefire replied, looking warmly up at Thorn, who nuzzled her slightly. He has a brave, fiery heart, for he gives anything his all.
Raven wasn't surprised. So, did you win again, or did he finally master that little trick?
We are equals.
Good.
Raven looked over at Murtagh, who had his ears pricked amusedly. When he noticed her looking, he asked Did she tell you what Thorn has told me?
I believe she has. And I am happy for both of them.
A/N: Aww, Thorn's got a girlfriend! Well, a mate. I think they'd make an awesome couple, don't you? And don't worry, I've already chosen four hatchling names, characterizations and appearances. Well, three of them anyways, and I need two names. I'm sure I'll have come up with something by the time this is posted. Anyhow, thanks again to Restrained Freedom, and IndigoDragonRider. Check 'em out. Now. They more than deserve it.
Reviews are loved, ConCrit is appreciated, and flames will be used to keep Shadefire's eggs warm when the time comes. Byye!
Falcon