Hey Everyone! My apologies for the extremely long wait for this chapter, the summer has been increasingly busy!

Thank You, all my fantastic reviewers!

Please enjoy this chapter and please forgive any grammatical/typing errors...

Disclaimer: I do not own anything of the Inheritance Cycle.

Chapter 46: Friendships Remembered

When the meeting was over and every man and woman had a clear idea of what was going to happen and their assigned duties, Taya stayed behind on Lady Nasuada's request, along with Raya, Sacar and Sasha.

While they waited to speak to the Varden leader, they quietly discussed where they had been placed in the oncoming battle.

Sasha had been placed with the Archers, Sacar and Raya in the 3rd battalion guarding Lithgow and Taya and Kabarak would be on the fringes of the fight, staying out of sight until ordered forward into the fray by Nasuada.

Taya and Kabarak knew a few of the reasons why they weren't stationed in the ranks, like Eragon and Saphira, who would pretty much lead the fight.

One was because a few, or a good many of the people still didn't trust Taya, or doubted her allegiance.

Two, almost no one knew what the two were capable of.

Three, the pair had never been in battle.

These were only a couple of the reasons that they'd come up with together. Luckily Nasuada trusted Taya or they might have been stuck defending Aberon while everyone else went to Lithgow. That wouldn't have flown, because with Murtagh being at the head of the Empire's army, Eragon and Saphira would need all the help they could get.

Calveen, Sharac and General Kyson with the Silwona twins, or rather bodyguards, were the ones conversing with Nasuada, Orrin and General Anron. Nasuada looked their way, noticed them waiting and waved them over,

"I must apologize for not officially introducing you all. Everything was just a bit crazy earlier. Lord Katzia, may I present the Corsallen sisters, their cousin Sasha Tatanya and their friend Sacar Liastrin. The four of them joined the Varden only a very short time ago. Sacar's family has been involved with the Varden for over twenty years. Taya, Raya, Sasha, Sacar, I present Lord Calveen Katzia, his son Sharac and General Otar Kyson. Lord Katzia has been supplying the Varden with information for many months, though this is his first time here, though Sharac has been here twice."

The three Dras'leonan men bowed slightly, and the foursome returned the gesture gladly.

"Welcome to Surda, Lord Katzia. I hope you are enjoying your visit?" Taya asked sweetly, noticing as she spoke the way Calveen's eye narrowed ever so slightly.

He looks like he knows who you are. Kabarak commented.

He is not stupid, for sure. My name means the most to them. General Kyson surely recognized it.

Sharac started to say something, and she could tell she didn't want him to say what he was going to, not with General Anron standing so close. But she was saved when Calveen silenced him and replied to her smoothly,

"Thank you, Lady Corsallen. Indeed, we are enjoying the climate, although the heat will be hard to become used to after the cooler region of Dras'leona."

Sasha smiled and nodded her head.

"Indeed Milord. Dras'leona is my hometown, so I can easily agree with you there."

Sharac was finally able to speak. "So you are that Sasha Tatanya. I thought my mind was playing tricks on me."

"No sir, it is me. It has obviously been a while since that encounter in our hometown." Sasha commented slyly, meaning that he had changed immensely.

Sharac laughed easily, but Taya caught a hint of bitterness in the sound. What had happened to have him and his father change so drastically?

"You have changed much as well, Miss Tatanya, I assure you." He eyed Raya. "As have you, Miss Corsallen. I vaguely remember your name being Raina…"

General Anron cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention to him. He'd been forgotten in the realization they'd all met before, and he had realized that nothing they were talking about would be of any use to him.

"I must apologize for interrupting, but I must depart and attend to my duties."

"Of course, General. We will not keep you. When you and your forces are ready to move out, contact me."

"Of course, Lady Nasuada. I will." General Anron bowed to Nasuada and to Orrin, and then nodded his head to everyone else. As he left, Raya and Taya exchanged relieved glances. Taya knew her sister felt inclined to tell Sharac and the others about her history, but she really didn't trust Anron anymore than Taya did.

Once the general had closed the door behind him, Sharac turned back to Raya expectantly.

"As we were saying?" He encouraged, more than a little curious about the younger Corsallen. Raya nodded, and then said softly,

"My name was Raina, sir, but when Taya came and she set me free, she learned that we were actually sisters and that my name was really Raya."

"How is that?" Lord Katzia questioned sharply. "How is it that you two are sisters? Would you not have grown up in Uru'baen?"

Raya's green eyes hardened and her mouth twitched. "I would have, yes, but instead I was kidnapped at a very young age from my second mother. You see, our real mother was in a tricky position when she carried me, so when I was born she gave me to her maid to raise me in safety. Only," Raya's tone of voice turned mocking. "I was kidnapped and sold into slavery."

"Slavery… a princess in slavery…" Calveen whispered, and his eyes traveled down her arm and locked onto where the slave brand or the brace should have been. As the four companions knew, he did not see either and his expression showed his surprise.

He looked back up into Raya's face.

"A freed slave, but you do not carry the mark?" He asked suspiciously.

"I removed it." Taya spoke softly, drawing everyone's attention away from Raya. Her green eyes locked on Calveen, and the lord suppressed a shiver.

"No family member of mine will carry such a hideous mark on them if I have any say in the matter. No one's life should be bound by a brand."

And yet she is a rider, bound by the Gedway Ignasia to a dragon and the duties of a Dragon Rider. Calveen thought, keeping his face impassive. But she always cared about others more than herself. She doesn't seem to care about what happens to her, but when it comes to others…

Sharac cleared his throat, a wary expression on his face as he eyed Taya. "How long have you been a…?"

Taya laughed. "How long have I been a magician? Since I was thirteen. Oh, Sharac don't look so horrified!" She shook her head sadly, smiling. "All those years you thought I was an ordinary princess."

"No princess is ordinary." Calveen stated evenly, causing everyone else to smile.

Nasuada was watching them keenly.

"So, you do know each other after all. I was wondering if you had, or if you, Taya, never stepped into that… circle?"

Taya shook her head quickly. "No, I was essentially Galbatorix's greeter. I'd make nearly every guest feel at home in the castle, once Galbatorix let my existence be known to a choice few. The good thing about it was that I always knew when someone was visiting."

"And she did a fair job of it, too." Sharac added, still slightly taken aback to find out that she'd been a magician all those years. Taya sent Sharac an appreciative smile, but turned her attention back to Nasuada as she spoke to Calveen.

"Then, Lord Calveen you can understand how tedious Lady Rider Corsallen's position is, even as the last Dragon Rider?"

"Yes, Milady. Not many, I know, would trust his daughter no matter what she was. As we have seen, those who are associated with Galbatorix in any way are held in suspicion of being spies." Calveen bowed his head a little. "We will not say a word about her," He towards Taya a little, so he could more easily address her and Nasuada. "In fact, it would be wise for us all to act as if we had just met today. You have changed much, Lady Corsallen, so I do not think that will be too difficult."

"And vice versa, Lord Calveen. I can see things have changed with you and Sharac." She noticed how his face darkened and she hurried on. "But what am I saying? After knowing you for so short a time, I can hardly say that you have changed." She performed an elegant bow to the Dras'leonan's, plastering a radiant smile on her face. "Well, it has been the greatest pleasure meeting you, Lord Calveen, Sharac, General Kyson. I hope we will be able to talk more during your stay here in Aberon."

"Well," Nasuada nodded, happy with both answers. "I think that is the best acting since Lady Dacoryn came. Now that I have introduced you all and cleared up that little matter, I must withdraw to talk with King Orrin alone. When you are needed, I will send a messenger for you. Until then, get some rest and prepare for the fight."

With Nasuada's dismissal, the four companions bowed and escaped the hall followed by Vanira, who had continued to stand, unnoticed, in the shadows of the room until they left.

After they'd been walking for a minute or so, the Katzia's and General Kyson caught up with them. The two groups made their bows and greetings, and then Lord Calveen asked,

"Lady Corsallen? May I speak with you for a moment? I have a question for you, and lest we do not see one another again…"

Taya shivered ever so slightly when she looked into the older man's eyes. His expression pleaded her to hear him, and she could only think of one thing that he wanted to ask her about. But she smiled to hide her discomfort and replied cordially,

"Of course Lord Katzia!" I am sure I am at your service." She looked around, and although she spotted no one, she did not think the hall outside the meeting chamber was the most private place they could talk. She waved her hand for them to follow her.

"Follow me. I will take us to a place where we can discuss our plans more easily." Her words drew more than one confused look, but Lord Calveen seemed to know what she meant and followed her with rapid steps.

Her destination was Kabarak, and the dragon, sensing her intention, sent her a picture of the front courtyard where he could fit and there'd be room for them all.

She and Calveen exchanged a few words until they stepped outside, and then it was impossible to miss the form of the large fairly large dragon. Kabarak's head was cocked towards them and as they walked towards him, Taya heard an intake of breath from behind.

Without hesitation Taya walked up and laid her hand on Kabarak's shoulder before turning to the rest of the group, smiling at the Dras'leonan's.

Colt Silwona looked the most uncomfortable, with Sharac right behind him. Dierik, Lord Calveen and General Kyson were awed, but neither shocked nor surprised.

"I would like to introduce you to Kabarak, my partner."

The other bowed low, and Kabarak dipped his head in greeting and said through Taya,

It is a pleasure to meet you. I already know who you all are, so there is no need for further introductions.

The perplexed look on Colt Silwona's face was enough to make Taya chuckle. Dierik noticed and nudged him firmly in the arm. The younger twin straightened quickly, looking sheepish for acting like a child.

"It's alright, Colt." Taya kidded, winking at him. "You'll get used to it."

"How do you know who I am!" He asked sharply. "I've know I've never seen you before."

Taya laughed. "But you have! I only looked different then. Have you not figured all this out by now?"

He frowned, and then as he looked at Sasha and Raya, his face when slightly pale. "You are Tanyel Cavrona!" He exclaimed.

"I am. I thought it would have been obvious, since Sasha and Raya left with 'Tanyel Cavrona' to go to Feinster." She chuckled again and then became serious, looking at Lord Calveen. "The reason I brought you here instead of staying in the hall was for security. I know, or I think I know what you wish to ask me of and that it has nothing to do with the Varden. With Kabarak here, no one would dare disturb us. We all have things to do, but gathering out here," She waved her arm around the courtyard, "makes it look less suspicious." Having said that, Taya sat herself down on Kabarak's leg and leaned against his chest in a fairly comfortable position. Everyone else sat on benches, or stood. When everyone was situated, Taya started talking again, but this time, her voice was different.

"It has been a long time since we last met, Lord Katzia. I cannot tell you how elated I am to know that you have also joined the Varden."

"Why?" Calveen asked, for the first time his face showing his confusion. "Why did you do it?"

Taya shrugged. "For something bigger than what Galbatorix could give me: freedom. Freedom for me and all others who were likewise slaves to him, and to save the word from destruction. I can do far more here than I ever could in Uru'baen. I am also doing al of this of my own free will. Now that I am the last Rider, Kabarak and I have more responsibility than I would have ever dreamed of having when joining the Varden. I can make so much more of a difference now… it's kind of scary."

"You certainly are the same princess we knew in Uru'baen." Katzia said softly. "You are still the Taya we knew."

"Perhaps. But my title is no longer princess. A more respectable title has replaced it and I cannot say I am sorry to see it go. I never really wanted the title of a princess anyways, and since most people don't know I am a king's daughter, there is especially no harm done in dropping said title." She paused, and twirled a lock of her hair absently. "You certainly have joined a much more honorable cause, Lord Katzia, but not without great risk. What made you do it?"

Taya saw the pain swell in the older man's eyes and it stirred something inside her, like it was a pain she herself had felt. Sharac laid a hand on his fathers shoulder, looking five times older than he was.

"For much the same reasons as you, Lady Corsallen." She noticed the effort he was using to keep his voice steady. "To save others from a loss so deep that there is no was to heal the wound. He took my son, and now he is gone. I do not want to see anyone suffer like I have at the hands of Galbatorix." Calveen's voice hardened when he uttered the name, as if it was more like a curse.

But Taya hardly noticed.

Larel...

"That is a worthy enough reason to break away from him, Lord Katzia." She replied softly. Again her discomfort rose… so that was the pain she saw; the pain that comes from loss. She had felt it when her mother had died, and when Murtagh turned. She knew it was a hard thing to bear, and Calveen had lost his beloved wife and his youngest son.

When he'd lost his wife to sickness, he had tried to drink away his pain. But when he lost Larel to Galbatorix, the only thing we wanted was revenge for his pain.

And his course of action led him straight to defecting to the Varden.

If only Larel knew... She thought.

General Otar Kyson knew only half of what was going on. The Katzia's personal life he knew well, as he was the Lord's right hand man.

He had no idea how 'Tanyel Cavrona' fit in with Princess Taya Corsallen, but he was sure it was an interesting story…

On finding out who the lady was in the council, he'd been quite relieved. In Dras'leona from the Katzia's and another person who'd met her, Kyson had heard of the princess's just and kind disposition that was so contrary to her fathers, thought she could be alarmingly quick to anger if she was crossed.

When Galbatorix had announced to his court the Varden had taken the princess, kidnapped her and killed her to get to the king. Otar Kyson had been cautious to let his want for vengeance loose as others had when he'd heard the news. For the past few years Kyson had been growing skeptical of man he and his lord served, as he heard reports of different things through the chain of command.

But the fact had remained that the princess and the last dragon egg were gone.

His skepticism ran deep, especially since the death of young Larel Katzia, whom Kyson had loved as a son. He'd been shocked to learn that the youngest Katzia had stayed in Uru'baen, and when no word came from him until the letter from the king saying he'd been killed in the line of duty, he began to wonder who was right and wrong in the war, and once he looked at the whole picture, the death and destruction that followed the king made the General uneasy. So when Lord Katzia had informed him that he'd thrown his lot in with the Varden a few months before, he had surprisingly gotten no opposition from Kyson and instead had his full encouragement.

Now Kyson was glad that he'd kept himself in line after the 'death' of Princess Taya Corsallen and he knew for a fact that Galbatorix was a liar… as the Princess now sat before him, alive and well and the partner of the last dragon.

A slight smiled played across his face as he watched the regal lady, sitting on the leg of such a magnificent beast.

The Varden were not the corrupted league of traitors the Empire made them out to be; it was Galbatorix who was corrupt.

Hearing this lady speak, Kyson knew which side he was supposed to be on… hers.

"Lady Corsallen?" Lord Calveen Katzia leaned forward towards the rider, his expression pleading. Fear shot through Taya as she guessed what he wanted… how could she answer him?

In Calveen's heart, Taya Corsallen knew the answer to his question. He was sure she did. He'd pondered over this since his son died, since Taya first told him she didn't know. But from the first Calveen had seen that his youngest son got along with the princess… and he knew she was not the sort of person that would lose touch with Larel once he joined the king's bodyguards… or at least, she would not lose sight of him.

"Do you know what happened to him?"

The question rang a chord in the air, and Colt Silwona stiffened.

"Father!" Sharac reprimanded, looking taken aback and slightly hurt. "You promised to not speak of this."

Calveen's expression turned grave as he looked at his oldest son… his only son. "I cannot keep it inside forever, my son. You know that as well as I, and I know that you would ask the same thing of her." He looked back to Taya, who fought to keep her face neutral.

She had promised Larel. She had promised…

A new thought alarmed her. What if Larel had had an idea that his father would take his death in such a way? Had the thought that his father might quit drinking and turn against Galbatorix ever entered his mind?

She doubted he had that much foresight, yet to be sure she would have to ask before she discarded the idea… She had promised to keep his life a secret from everyone, especially his father and brother. And she kept her promises.

"No, Lord Katzia, I have no idea what happened to your son. Larel and I were friends… but when he joined Galbatorix's bodyguards we did not talk. I doubt he was even allowed to think my name." Taya bowed her head for a moment and took a deep breath. "I was very sorry to lose him, but I have never forgotten him." She did not mention death; she never implied she lost him when she left Uru'baen; she would never forget him. She would search to the end of the world to find any missing Hljodhr Evarinya.

There was no way they could know those things, though, and she let Calveen and Sharac take what she said and think what she wanted.

"Very well." Calveen said stiffly, confused and disappointed. He had that small hope… but it was fairly shattered then. Sharac watched his father sadly, wishing the subject would drop, or that his father had not brought it up in the first place.

Taya clasped her hands together and leaned on her knees, looking at the lord through compassionate green eyes. Her voice was soft and soothing when she spoke.

"Do not give up hope, Lord Katzia. Larel wanted you to do what was right, and you fight for a much worthier cause now. He would be happy."

"Would he?" Calveen asked cynically. "All he cared about was joining Galbatorix."

"And many good men have been have been turned against what they believed in by Galbatorix. Larel was not weak in that decision."

Even Taya's companions were confused. Raya and Sacar looked at each other, wondering. Lord Calveen Katzia straightened slightly, his eyes narrowing.

"I do not understand what you mean, Lady Corsallen." He said cautiously. Her words were riddles and though he didn't know for sure, he thought she was holding something back. Whether it had something to do with his son's death or something that happened to him while he was alive, he didn't know. And he had the feeling that he would get no more answers.

Taya unclasped her hands, replying with a small smile,

"You will, sometime. But now is not really the time to explain, and I don't think I could anyways."

Sharac Katzia shook his head slightly, trying to remember her ever being this confusing. She had. Both her and her bodyguards…

The young man's eyes widened slightly, realization hitting him. The strange Hljodhr Evarinya had not escaped Uru'baen with her… He remembered clearly the bond Taya had shared with them all, like they were all siblings.

He looked into her eyes, knowing that she knew how he felt, losing his brother. When she left Uru'baen, she'd lost her family. His eyes strayed from Raya to Sasha. But then, she'd found her other family along her journey. So her hole was not quite as large as his own, or his fathers… but who was he to judge her?

Taya remembered how unhappy Calveen had been when Larel chose to stay in Uru'baen to serve under Galbatorix. The two had parted on very shaky terms, and they had never reconciled before Larel… died. Taya knew how that made Calveen feel guilty and cruel, as he'd dearly loved his son.

Kabarak touched the top of her head with his nose, and his gravely voice emanated through her mind as he spoke.

Taya, we must get a move on, and so must our friends here. If we are to be ready to fight Murtagh's full power and still fight soldiers, we must be fully prepared. If all goes well you'll be able to catch up with our friends after the fight.

Right. I think they've realized this too. As she said this to Kabarak, General Kyson stood up from his sitting position beside Sacar and gently cleared his throat, bowing to Taya.

"If I may speak, I am relieved to find that you are alive, pr- I mean Lady Corsallen." He smiled at his mistake. "I hope we will have another chance to speak, but we all have things we need to do and things to prepare for. It will be an honor to fight beside you, all of you. Lady Corsallen, when you disappeared, many people feared the worst and the things Galbatorix circulated were beginning to make us lose hope that you might somehow be alive."

Taya bowed in return, turning slightly red in the face. "I am very glad that you did not lose hope, General Kyson. If you had, these events might have been different, for the worst. It is good to know that there are some people out there who do not fully trust him.

As it is, we will fight those who wish to destroy us and maybe by doing so we'll gain a few more supporters. If we stand up for what we believe in…" Her eyes drifted over to Calveen, and when she saw that he was watching her, she turned a little redder and looked quickly away. "It will be an honor to fight beside you all as well… we will meet again soon."

Taya's companions stood with the rest of the Dras'leonan's and exchanged their goodbyes. As the Dras'leonan's made their way back towards the castle, Sasha suddenly ran after them. Raya paused in mid step, taken aback like the others as they watched Sasha dart forward. "What in the world?" Raya commented in confusion.

"General Kyson!" they heard Sasha call out and the entourage stopped, turning in surprise. Sasha didn't look at any of them except the general, who was as confused as the rest of them. But he regained his composure quickly and replied graciously,

"Yes ma'am? You are Sasha, correct?"

The young lady nodded quickly. "Yes, sir. I just wanted to ask you something."

The general looked even more confused, but he responded as before. "I am at your service, Miss Sasha. What is on your mind?"

Her expression was searching. "You were apart of the imperial recruitment regiment over five years ago in Dras'leona, were you not?"

The question startled him and put him on his guard. Those had not been easy times, back then. He eyed her warily as he responded,

"I was, yes."

Sasha lowered her voice so only the general could hear her. "Do you remember a tall, dark haired, dark eyed young man named Emerson Quetir? He was recruited over five years ago."

At least, she thought only the general could hear her.

Kyson frowned, thinking hard and trying to dig through the hundreds of memories he had of those days. After a minute, he shook his head sadly. "I am sorry, young lady, I do not remember him. Was he… important to you?"

Sasha replied a little too quickly. "A good friends, that's all. I'm sorry to have stopped you for something to trivial, sir." She bowed her head and stepped away from him. Kyson though, did not move but continued watching her with contemplative eyes.

"I am sorry I could not be more helpful, Miss Sasha." He apologized and then turned back to his lord.

Sasha watched him go, her expression unreadable. Taya smiled slightly, though there was nothing happy about her cousin. Kabarak had heard what had been said, as his ears were far stronger than humans, and unknown to the rest of them Vanira had heard as well. The elf, for the first time in a while, was confused. She had seen nothing that related to this moment, or Sasha's question. Had she missed something, or was something missing?

Vanira leaned against a tree, keeping her expression neutral. She didn't think it was all that important, but she knew she'd been wrong before.

Sasha walked back to them, obviously trying to hide her disappointment.

"What was that about, Sasha?" Raya inquired curiously. Sasha shrugged. "Oh, nothing. He looked familiar, and I just wanted to make sure."

One of Raya's eyebrows shot up, but she believed what her cousin said.

Still, there was still skepticism in her eyes.

"Erm, ok…" Raya only wondered why Sasha hadn't said something earlier to the general, or why she hadn't waited.

Taya shook her head at her sister. "Well, let's get going. Back to the sparring fields. I have to make sure you three live through this fight. Lets see what you're capable of."

"You got it!" Raya exclaimed, pumping her fist in the air. "I'm ready!"

Taya's eyes twinkled with humor, which caused Sasha to get suspicious and narrow her brown eyes. "Watch out, Raya. She's got something planned." Sasha warned, teasingly taking a step away from her cousin.

Taya scoffed. "Come now, this is serious! Life and death!"

"Right, right." Sasha rolled her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest. "What's the catch about this 'life and death'? With you, there's always a catch."

The grin that spread across the rider's face was enough to curb Raya's enthusiasm. "I'm only going to drill you three into the ground, that's all."

Sacar winced. "I was hoping she wasn't going to say something like that. Remind me next time she smiles like that to run."

Taya lightly smacked the teenage boy over the head, causing Sacar wrap his arms around his head to protect himself from any further wallops.

"Come on, you. Get moving before I make you move."

Sacar quickly stepped up next to Raya, who was furthest from Taya. His action made Taya laugh and shake her head.

He really was a funny kid…

Troops were already being sent to defend Lithgow that afternoon, as the order to march had spread through the Varden and Surdan ranks like wildfire, and everywhere preparations were being made.

Lithgow already had a good defense, but everyone agreed it was not enough to defend, attack and defeat.

The spy that had spotted the small army had seen them in the Dauth territory, but close to the open desert and plantation country. It was speculated that it would take at least a week, more likely two, for the army to reach Lithgow.

For some reason Taya guessed it would take closer to a week and a half. She knew Murtagh well enough to know that he would want them to move as fast as possible. He wasn't very subtle, sometime.

That afternoon Eragon, Saphira and Arya had taken off to Lithgow to warn the city and ready their defenses. Roran and two other leaders were heading out the next morning with their troops, and were to be accompanied by General Kyson and some of his men with Lord Katzia with them.

Sharac was being sent with Taya and Kabarak and their large troop of reserves being led by General Gi'Vare.

New to a battle, Sacar, Raya and Sasha were apart of the reserves, much to Taya's relief. It meant she could keep a better eye on them.

Siranus Liastrin had requested and had been granted to be in the reserve troops with his son, and Sacar felt much better now that he knew his father would be beside him in this fight.

Vanira was to stay close to Taya as well as she could, an order which the elf could only laugh at. She would have stayed close to Taya in any case, without being asked or told.

Taya and Kabarak were what Taya called the 'special' reserves. Only when Nasuada called for them to join the fray were they to move from their hiding spot, even if it was after Gi'Vare's reserves had been called in. The whole plan irked Taya, because it made her feel as if they weren't wanted during the fight, when they could do so much for the Varden.

At least they did not keep us out of the fight entirely. Kabarak said later that day, yawning and stretching like a cat. Taya had to smile at the dragon. She was sitting beside him, away from all the commotion, on a small hill, alone together. There were clouds in the sky, and if they hadn't been in Surda, Taya would have sworn it was going to rain.

There is that. She conceded with a sigh. I'm just worried. I'm dreading the fight because I don't know who will and who won't walk away from it.

Kabarak turned his head slightly towards her, and snorted. A small puff of black smoke shot out, and Taya had to wave her hand in front of her face to clear the air. He was very proud of those little puffs of smoke… Taya thought it was a good sign, although the whole 'smoke in the face' thing was slightly annoying.

You are really worried about the Hljodhr's. It was a rhetorical question. The answer was obvious.

Taya nodded.

If I'm out of half the fight, will that mean one of them will die? And if any of them do die, will I ever be able to forgive myself or the man that took his life?

Taya. Kabarak soothed, nudging her affectionately. Please don't wear yourself out thinking about it. Don't forget about the risk, but don't let it hurt you. You know better than anyone else that you cannot be everywhere at once. And a fight, a war, is unpredictable. Either of us could be killed. Your Hljodhr Evarinya now the risk of fighting as well as we do, and I have a feeling that they wouldn't want you to kill yourself worrying about them. They want you alive as much as you want them alive. I personally think you should worry about those two teenagers and Sasha. The way he said 'those two teenagers' made her laugh. He loved them so much, and Taya knew he thought their fighting skills were pathetic.

Don't worry, with all the wards I've been putting on those three, especially Raya and Sacar, since I came out of the coma, I wouldn't be surprised if they come out of the fight virtually unscathed. Unless they are as bad as you think they are.

Kabarak snorted again. I just don't think they realize what they are going into, and when they get to the fight, they'll lose it.

Taya burst out laughing, laying a hand on Kabarak's shoulder and shaking her head. Now who's the one worrying?

I am always worrying, Taya. He retorted smartly, lifting his head. About you. Why else am I here but to worry about you and keep you safe?

Well, I'm sure I could come up with a few other reasons. Taya drawled, and then sighed.

You're right Kabarak, I'm worrying to much. Thanks for helping me get a grip on myself.

Taya Taya Taya. You always have a grip on yourself. That's what makes you you. Although, the other night you kind of lost it.

Taya groaned. Gosh, don't remind me. That was awful.

Hey, it's a part of my job description. And yes, it was awful. But it was funny.

Hey, Kabarak. You really need to grow, and fast.

It was the dragon's turn to sigh heavily. Her retort was only half joking. His size was somewhat of an issue to them both, and it drove Kabarak crazy.

I know, I know! We are going into a fight without you being able to ride me. You know how much that irks me. We don't even have a saddle, even if you could ride me. A rider should be able to ride his or her dragon into battle.

Taya paused, stopping herself from saying anything as an idea popped into her mind. She jumped to her feet in one quick motion, a queer look of determination lighting up her eyes.

We have a project, Kabarak. Yours is to grow. Mine is to make. Drat, I wish Eragon hadn't left today. Oh well, I'll just have to figure it out myself.

Wait a second. He saw right into her mind, and his tail twitched. We are going to make a saddle? Right now? When we are leaving tomorrow?

You've got it, Kabarak. There's no reason to sit around idly, thinking about death and other things we can't predict or change. Let's go find a tanners shop. There's got to be one around here somewhere... We can make something that is temporary, something to get us through the fight.

Too bad you don't know anything about leatherwork. The dragon quipped as Taya climbed onto his back and settled herself where she could sit comfortably.

Kabarak experimented suddenly, causing her to yelp and squeeze her legs around him as he spread his wings and pushed his body into the air, and he hovered a few feet above the ground. He moved forward a little and up, straining slightly. Though Taya was holding on for dear life, she was fascinated about being above the ground, and that Kabarak could stay there with her on his back.

Kabarak touched back to the earth easily, and through their link Taya felt the strain on his body from his experiment.

Who's the one exhausting himself now? She chided lovingly as he walked back towards the craziness that was the city.

He looked back at her, narrowing his eyes.

Shush, I did it, didn't I?

Yes, you did. And I'm super proud of you. Now, grow and get super strong really fast! Overnight would be great.

We'll see. He didn't sound too convinced it would happen. Taya rolled her eyes.

Hey! The power of positive thinking! Or should I start yelling at you, telling you that of you don't grow by tomorrow and get super strong we are going to die? This is urgent! Positive thinking, Kabarak. Just get me to a place where I can buy some leather, alright? No more stunts.

Yes, your highness. He snorted, and earned a slap on the shoulder and a quick retort.

Hush, you.

Later that evening Taya sat at a table in the kitchen with her companions, nursing a cup of hot tea in her hands. The other three could not stop talking, though their bodies were exhausted from the day's harsh workouts. True to her word, Taya had practically drilled them into the ground, and at the end she'd made all three of them fight her together, to use teamwork. Of course, they had failed miserably in the beginning, but by the end they were working together quite nicely… sort of.

They'd gone to go clean up while Taya escaped with Kabarak for some alone time, and when Taya's project was finished she joined back up with them for dinner.

Taya was still laughing at herself about the saddle.

She'd bought the leather, and had gone back to their spot, only to stare at the stuff. She had no idea where to start, or how, so she fiddled and experimented. She thought she was getting the hang of it until Vanira Dacoryn joined her and started laughing.

Shaking her head at Taya indignant question, Vanira sat down with Taya and proceeded to show her how to make a saddle. Only then did Taya catch on, and with surprising speed they completed the saddle.

They made it large enough so that when Kabarak grew, it would still fit easily.

The dragon approved of the saddle, and was still wearing it to break it in and get used to it. He was going to fly, so Taya left him to it and met up with the others. Exhaustion was finally kicking in after the tumultuous day, and Taya found herself zoned out in another world, thinking of the Hljodhr Evarinya. She had a inner feeling that something was… different, strained.

What were they thinking? Surely they knew what their battle plans were, by now.

In what position was Melcar Di'Acor in, under Murtagh? Surely Murtagh would have placed him in command of something, with Melcar's ability to lead. But did Murtagh still trust the bodyguard captain enough?

Captain… Taya smiled slightly as she remembered the look on Melcar's face when she'd elevated him to Captain of her bodyguards.

*Flashback*

Taya reached inside her long coat and took out a long object wrapped in black velvet, the crest of the Hljodhr Evarinya sewn into the fabric. With both hands she held it out to a suspicious Melcar Di'Acor.

With all the other Hljodhr's arrayed around Taya, he knew something was up, but what he didn't quite know. A sneaking thought entered his mind, but the gravity of the thought made him push it aside.

Looking around him, he took the object with both hands, feeling the soft touch of the fabric, and something of the shape within. He looked into Taya's eyes, and saw only respect and maybe a little bit of excitement.

"The Hljodhr Evarinya has had no one to call their captain, Melcar Di'Acor. I am their leader, but I am also the one under their protection. Since the day you joined the Hljodhr Evarinya, you have gained the trust of every one of us, and we already consider you our brother. Besides that, you unconsciously took on the role of our captain. We all look up to you, Di'Acor, and we trust your judgment in the tensest moments. You have the defining qualities of a great leader... and it is with great honor and joy that I, Princess Taya Corsallen, elevate you to the rank of Captain. May this gift from me always remind you who you are and remind you of those who respect and love you."

Unconsciously Melcar's hands undid the tie that held the cloth together and drew back the fabric.

In his hands was a sheathed knife, the sheath inlaid with silver vines and emerald leaves. The knife's grip was black leather, the handle bright steel, and inlaid in its hilt was a clear green stone, and on both sides the Hljodhr Evarinya crest was carefully engraved. The art work of the blade blew his mind, and he knew it rivaled anything he'd ever seen. Shaken, but oddly excited, his fingers wrapped around the leather grip, fitting his hand like it was made to be there, and he withdrew the blade from its sheath. The double edged blade caught the light and flashed, illuminating his face for a split second. In awe, Captain Melcar Di'Acor of the Hljodhr Evarinya looked into the green eyes of his princess, his charge, and he straightened himself before her and his men.

Taya smiled, wishing she could laugh at his expression, the mix of emotions on his face telling her all that she needed to know.

"I am honored, Princess Corsallen." Melcar's tenor voice was light, and in a smooth motion he replaced the blade in it's sheath, clasping it in his left hand.

He half expected clapping, but everyone remained silent, including Taya.

Melcar stood just as silently, rooted to the floor, staring at Taya with a pleading look. In a whisper, Taya said with a straight face,

"You're supposed to give a speech."

"What?" His exclamation caused everyone to howl with laughter, and someone, he thought it was Zen, roared,

"As good a speech as any!"

Taya lifted a hand, stifling the noise except for a few guffaws. She was trying to keep the smile off her face, and when she spoke, it was clear she was having a hard time trying not to laugh.

"With that, Captain Di'Acor, we know that we can always count on you to have a sense of humor, but be serious when the time calls for it. You are a great captain… and you will only become greater."

Melcar Di'Acor nodded, a smile parting his lips, and he looked down at the knife, still shocked by what had just taken place. Then everyone was slapping him on the back, congratulating him, and making comments about how tough he was going to be on them.

It was mostly Zen, and he was trying to sound like he was complaining, and when Melcar gave the other man a dirty look, he only grinned. Melcar shook his head and Taya took his arm.

"Well, Captain?" She teased, nudging him. "Any last words before you have to assume control over these ruffians?"

Someone cried out indignantly, and Melcar exaggerated a sigh.

"I'm doomed."

Taya's musical laughter mixed with everyone else's and she knew she couldn't have made a better decision.

*END*

A single tear slid down her cheek as she stared into her cup. That had been the best decision she'd made, besides the decision to save his life. Melcar was more than her captain and her friend; she really did consider him as her brother. If anything happened to him, she knew she'd harm those who'd harmed him.

Aside from Melcar, her thoughts mostly dwelled on Zen and Larel.

Larel, obviously, could fend for himself, but what if he crossed blades with someone he knew from his days living in Dras'Leona? And that person recognized him? In the middle of a battle, that could be disastrous, for Larel and others.

If it was Sharac or Calveen, they would mostly likely believe they were seeing things, and try harder to kill him to be rid of the memory, or just jump away, startled.

Kyson, Taya thought, would be the most likely to believe it was Larel and that he was alive… he'd probably yell his name in shock and demand an explanation… in the middle of the battle field. That could get them both killed.

If Colt or Dierik saw him… well, she would have to watch them, just in case. Larel would surely see and recognize them and try to steer clear of them. Knowing Larel he would stay close enough to defend them, but far enough away they wouldn't fight him.

Would she happen to cross blades with him? What if he was wearing a helmet with his face covered?

Her blood ran cold. Would she know if she killed one of her beloved Hljodhr's?

Zen…

She shivered suddenly, as if someone had just walked over her grave. She felt chilled, icy, and shivered again.

Her reality/vision from her coma came back to her and in her minds eye she saw the haunted shadow, the driven expression in his eyes that left the blue orbs strangely empty… his voice so lonely, so distorted.

What had Galbatorix done to him to make him so… evil? She knew Galbatorix had a talent for twisting the minds of certain people, but how could he have twisted Zen to that extent? He'd had a hold on Zen before, but that had been clearly resolved when he'd ordered Zen killed…

The young man's only weakness was her. She shrank away from the thought, but knew it to be true. He'd made himself believe he loved her, and would do anything for her. Would he 'turn' so save or avenge her?

If he had been offered the right things in the right way, and Galbatorix knew Zen well enough to understand him, then yes, he would surrender everything to bring her back, or avenge her himself.

The Drayson might be a year older than Taya, but he was still gullible at all the wrong times.

Would she have to fight him in this oncoming battle? What kind of damage could he wreak on the Varden?

Would she be the one to… kill…?

Taya's eyes narrowed and her muscles tightened. She wanted to slam her fist on the table in anger, but remained still.

No. He was not going to be killed, by her or by anyone else. There was always an alternative, always that third way out that Taya loved so dearly.

Determination welled up inside her, and so sitting at the table surrounded by friends and family, Taya started to devise a plan… a plan that covered every possible possibility; a plan that would hold Zen no matter how evil and powerful he was. She could not lose.

Give me the day that I can sit down and not have to worry about war and death, good and evil. Ha, that will be the day.

Melcar Di'Acor sat on his horse watching as his column of soldiers marched on by him. They all looked tired, but some still had a light in their eyes. Most nodded to him as they moved by, and many straightened.

There was still pride among them, and Melcar respected them all the more for it.

In the fading light he could see the other columns moving forward, and the wagon drivers were preparing to light their lanterns. Somewhere out there were the other Hljodhr's he knew, but he wished they were all beside him. He wished even more that they were all far away from this place.

Ayda drew up beside him and remarked,

"There will hardly be any life among them by the time we reach Lithgow. How the army that marched to the Burning Plains could make it there without many men dying along the way blows my mind. And will we really make it to Lithgow in such a short time?"

"Those are questions I ponder about myself, Ayda dear, but one's I cannot answer."

His voice was a sigh, and she looked over at him quickly, barely noticing the strain that showed on his handsome face.

She reached out and rubbed his shoulder.

"It is nothing to despair about, Melcar. You know they'd fight anyways."

"I am thinking a little bit more selfishly, at the moment." He replied softly, looking across the desert.

"Oh Melcar." Ayda's soft voice echoed in his mind, and he turned his head towards her. Her expression was soft and full of understanding.

"I know everything seems hopeless, especially now, but there's still a hope that something good will come out of this!"

"If only."

Ayda was clearly surprised by his attitude and she sat silent in her saddle for a long moment, waiting for him to continue. She had a good guess what was really bothering the young captain, but she couldn't be completely sure. So much in the past few weeks had made him retreat inside himself, and it was very hard for her to know what he was thinking.

"A couple years ago, I would never have dreamed about being where I am right now. I had everything planned out… until my family was killed. After that it was all about running, and finding those who'd killed them. After that it was finding where my loyalties lay, and that took a couple knocks in the head to figure it out. And then when I became Captain, I could start planning things again. But when Taya left, that wasn't a part of my plan. Ever since then I feel as if I've been drifting, trying to hold on. The unknown future is daunting. And what's ahead of us is surely unknown. Who will we fight, in this battle? Who will die? Who will live? Who will win the battle? Do we even have a chance? I don't worry about myself… and I hate to admit it, but I don't think about these soldiers. I only think of you, and the other Hljodhr Evarinya. What good can come out of this, Ayda?"

"More than you know, I think." Ayda out a hand on his horses bridle and looked deep into his black and gold eyes. "Melcar, you know better than I do about our chances in this. And since the day we found Taya gone, you have been the one to believe she was still out there. I refused to believe it for a while, but I'm starting to realize that if I have a hope like that, it's easier to get up every day, knowing that there is a hope she's out there. Now, you know she'd tell you to get yourself together, but since she's not here, I'll do it for you."

Her storm cloud grey eyes flashed, and her grip tightened on the bridle. Melcar stared unblinkingly at her, and she wondered if he'd listen to her.

"Get your act together, Captain, or you'll have one less person to worry about."

His expression snapped, her snarled comment sending him crashing back to reality. Hurt showed in his eyes, and Ayda mentally cringed. She hated hurting him, but it needed to be done. He was changing into someone she didn't like, and she needed to remind him of what he would lose.

"Don't become another Zen, Melcar. Please. Back your men up to the last second, and remember who you are and just what you are fighting for. And I'll stand right here, between you and that shadow of melancholy, and keep it at bay. Get your act together, Captain."

With her greatest effort she tried to mimic Taya's commanding tone, but she knew she didn't do it justice. Yet a small smile grew on his face and he put a hand on her arm.

"As you command, milady."

Ayda smiled too, seeing the hurt washed away by her attempt.

"You know, Ayda, you are pretty good at imitating her." He commented, asking Adnarim for a walk. Ayda released the bridle and walked beside him.

More lanterns were being lit, and ahead of the column's Murtagh on Thorn walked, leading the way.

"I try." She replied smartly, nudging him. "And since I snapped you and Murtagh back to reality by imitating her, I guess I do a pretty good job. I don't think it does her any justice, though."

Melcar threw back his head and laughed, causing her heart to warm. He was back.

"'Tis true, to both. Only, it wasn't you trying to imitate Taya that made me realize I really was trying to go off the deep end."

Ayda said nothing, but looked up at the appearing stars. They would march as far as they could during the cool night, stopping a few times. They would march until it was too warm, and then they would stop for the hottest hours of the day and repeat that in the evening until they reached their destination.

"Thank you, Ayda."

She looked over at Melcar, and she could barely make out him out against the night. She hoped he could see her nod, because for some reason she couldn't speak.

Melcar saw the nod, and turned his attention back to the shapes of moving men. His dark thoughts returned to his mind, but he was only remembering. If not for Ayda, where would he be in the next couple days? Would he be a similar shadow of Zen? Could his own thoughts really cause him to forget all that he believed?

His eyes strayed ahead to the dark mass in front of the columns. Evil permeated the air, seeming to swim between the columns, reaching out to those in despair.

Melcar's dark eyes narrowed. They all might be doomed to die, but they didn't have to die thinking the worst.

Without a word he pushed Adnarim forward at a lope, riding around the columns to the very front. Adnarim snorted as he approached the dragon, but Melcar's firm hand and confident seat in the saddle made the horse move forward. He slowed beside the shadow's shoulder and looked up. Murtagh's form was outlined darkly against the night sky, and before the Dragon Rider could say anything, Melcar's voice drifted up to him, his tone dark, thick with disgust and anger.

"We might be marching to our deaths, Murtagh, but we will fight as ourselves, not as shadows. You are not fooling me. This place reeks of magic, of black magic. You are lucky I am still here to tell you to stop. By the time we reach Lithgow, you won't have an army. You'll have a few thousand bodies, shells of men. Unless that is what you want, you can release that cursed energy and you will find that we all will have more strength to reach the end. Being doomed to die isn't the thought I had in mind for myself, but at least I'll be saving a few others before I go."

He whirled his horse and rode quickly back to his column, shaking uncontrollably with anger. He was glad Ayda could not see his face, or see him in the state he was in.

He had almost fallen into Galbatorix's trap… and only a woman could bring him back to reality.

Melcar Di'Acor held his head higher than he had the whole trip, and sheer determination radiated off of him, and as he rode beside the men under his command, his attitude seemed to spread. He issued an order to his lieutenant, who passed the word along, and he could almost feel the change in the air around him.

A cynical smile spread across his face. Galbatorix may win the war by killing them all, but for the moment Melcar was winning the battle. It gave him a stronger hope that they might remain strong in body and spirit. He wanted to out up a fight, and he knew most of the men around him wanted to as well. He was only making it easier on them.

I do not like being told what to do. A voice snarled in the outer reaches of his mind, demanding retribution, yet Melcar remained unmoved.

Then you should never have chosen to fight against Taya Corsallen.

His words bit into Murtagh like a poisonous snake, causing the Rider to recoil, stung by the calmly spoken threat.

Melcar rode in silence from then on, brooding over the feelings around him, and all the possibilities of the upcoming battle. Murtagh did not attempt to another encounter, and Ayda, sensing his thoughtfulness, did not speak. She was curious to know what he'd said to Murtagh, but she would not ask. Whatever had gone on between the two, it had changed Melcar's attitude. She could sense his pounding anger, could feel it boiling off of him.

It was a brooding anger, one that Ayda had felt at times when she was around Taya Corsallen. When that happened, things happened. Determined, Taya would make sure whatever she was brooding over was set right.

So, whatever Melcar was brooding over, the result might help save them.

She let him think in silence, knowing he would confide in her when he was ready.