I meticulously picked the bloody bits of flesh clinging to my large boar, savoring the juicy tang of its delectable flavor. Licking my lips in a satisfied manner, I seized a rib bone and chewed it slowly, tasting marrow. Swallowing the remains, I grabbed another bone, and another, until nothing but bloody specks remained of the creature.
Glancing around suspiciously, I beheld the darkness of my prison. To most, it would appear to be powerful, even beautiful, but to me, nothing would change the invisible shackles that bound me to it. A spacious room, made entirely of marble, spread out before my narrowed orange eyes. An empty hearth sat in the center of the left wall, burning charcoals collected at its base. Torches lined the walls, providing dismal light in the deadened room. Perhaps the most surprising feature, more lack thereof, was the throne. The entire room was open, a gray plain of cool marble. The glowering embers of the dying fire in the hearth added an eerie glow in the corner.
My master is no where in sight, a welcome reprieve from his oppressive presence. He is my puppeteer and I am the lifeless puppet, a cruel façade formed by the admirable goals he'd set falsely. I knew that, past the traitorous words, there was no hope for the future, gloomily resigning myself to this fate. I calmly obey him for fear of inflicting more trouble upon innocents whom I've no wish to harm.
The heartless, conniving man that controls me is indeed the tyrant of a king, Galbatorix. My gaze drifts over the bolted door, far too small for one as large as I. Galbatorix had deemed that I wasn't allowed to leave the throne room, therefore the door was built to accommodate only humans. I silently mused that it was out of fear of escaping that he did such. Perhaps he somehow believed I knew how to escape the binds he had placed upon me. As much as I would love to say I know, the awful truth of the situation was grim.
I don't.
I lazily flick my tongue out, testing the air for intruders. The burning embers first draw my attention, though I quickly skim past them. Several guards are posted at the door, I sense amusedly. Galbatorix's precautions to make sure I don't escape exceed the necessary ones, though he obviously is taking no chances with me. The guards were firm, yet I could sense that they were rather bored with their current duty. I didn't blame them.
Stiffening abruptly, a new scent wafted towards me and I stifled a groan. The guards tensed instantly, the light scuffling of their movements drifting to my ears. I watched with my eyes narrowed in suspicion as the door was opened sharply, a tall, cloaked man entering. The guards dutifully shut the door, fear emanating from them. I snorted derisively and stared at the man with hating eyes. I growled low.
A mistake, the man deemed, as I was shot by a terrible, electrifying sensation. My entirety was coursing with power for a moment before going rigid and collapsing beneath me. I hit the floor with a heavy thud, dulled by the marble. Sneering up at him, I gasped as the sensation returned, leaving me writhing upon the cold floor.
"Foolish beast," the man snarled. I choked and gasped as the unbearable shocking feeling drifted away. Shaking slightly, I rose to my feet, towering before him. Despite my superior size, I felt inferior and powerless against him. In a daring flare of bravado, I shot a fireball at him. He deflected it casually with a flick of his hand. I snarled in irritation. "You don't hurt your master," the man drawled. Approaching me, he muttered something under his breath. My sight vanished, replaced by blackness and I moaned helplessly, glancing around blindly. "One week, no sight; longer if you're bad," the man, on my left side, hissed. I swung my head from side to side, nostrils flaring smoke, eyes open yet unseeing.
Deciding that I was in a losing situation, I reluctantly dipped my head in submission and said, yes, master, hoping to appease him. I suppose the lack of a whip hitting my side could be taken as success. I simply wanted to walk back to my corner, curl up, and forget about it all. The man, or I should say, beast that was Galbatorix was moving before me as I heard the light thudding of his boots meeting ground. He halted some inches from my face, a cruel hand suddenly placed upon my brow. I winced, jerking back from the cold contact.
Too late.
He was in my head, reading my thoughts like an open book. Erecting barriers against him was futile and energy-consuming. Instead, I debated whether to cry out from the pain accompanying his abrupt entrance, or to be silent, depriving him of that pleasure. Silence is golden, I suppose.
My skull was on fire, my head throbbing painfully. Each thought was like a broken shard of glass, formerly a working whole, shattered upon his intrusion. I swayed dangerously before collapsing heavily to the ground, panting softly. When I realized I was wincing, I forced my face into an impassive mask, hiding my pain. Glaring in the direction I judged him from his scent, I staggered to my feet yet again.
"You really are a worthless, pathetic dragon," Galbatorix commented in a bored tone. I was silent with fury, pain, and fear. His hand was upon my snout once more, this time feeling over the ridge between my eyes. I considered shaking it off or backing away but finally decided both would be pointless. I humbly bowed my head, showing my defeat. Dark chuckling met me and I stifled a hiss of agitation. "But I suppose you are better than nothing."
His voice was emotionless as he said it, though I could vaguely sense the fleetest thought of pain from him. Before I could determine whether it was his or my own, it was gone. So. He still longed for his dragon. I felt betrayed, as I was, and truly worthless in that instant.
Back when I was merely a hatchling, Galbatorix had instilled that my rider had abandoned me like a worthless dog. He had then—generously, as he described it—taken me in and offered me a new life.
Some life.
For years, I truly had believed that my rider had not wanted me, the thought driving me to almost take my own life several precarious times. Galbatorix pulled me back, lying through his teeth of how I needed to stay alive.
And so I did.
Now, I truly wonder whether death would've been better than this. My true rider, peace, freedom . . . definitely, I decided resolutely. I sighed despairingly. I didn't even have that option available to me. If I tried, Galbatorix would bring me back and torture me, for that I was certain. Then again, perhaps he didn't care for me at all and would allow me to do such a thing. But, I finally realized gloomily, he needs a dragon and so, I was still of use to him.
I heard receding footsteps and a door open with a soft rasp, allowing him to leave. I snarled distastefully, wishing myself to leave with him and forget this forsaken room. But I cannot, because I am his slave and he is my master.
It's amazing how simple it is to accept doom when it is upon you.
Slowly, I inched my way back to the right back corner of the room, trying to gauge in what direction I was actually heading. My tail, spiked threateningly at the tip, swayed behind me, helping to determine which way was my corner. After several cautious moments, I bumped softly into the wall. Feeling around with my head and tail, I realized that this was, indeed, my corner. From the years I had lounged and sulked in this corner, it had developed a small, curved impression from my weight. Granted, the floor would yield little more than that, being marble, but I was still somewhat satisfied.
Settling myself, I glanced around pointlessly, the deadening darkness shrouding my sight to nothing. I sighed resignedly and crossed my paws in front of myself, resting my head upon them moments later. They were cold but smooth, a suitable pillow as I closed my useless eyes. Instead of allowing sleep, I thought back to where it all went wrong.
The warm, living cocoon that was my egg was a soft and soothing presence, humming with magic and protection. I was content to lay curled inside peacefully, feeling myself being moved many times. I was held in the arms of numerous beings, their presences mingling with mine in a manner I didn't approve. So, I remained in my egg, satisfied to remain this way. It seemed that an eternity passed before it happened.
I was resting, my small form curled up inside my comfortable shelter, yet I was always aware of my current position. In this instance, I was on something solid, feeling it the perfect place to rest. I felt a foreign being enter the area at which my egg was being kept. It was strange, their presence, for it was different then all the others whom had come to pass. Theirs was gentle, yet strong and compassionate. When they came in contact with my egg, a flash of satisfaction and contentment overwhelmed me. I hummed inside my shell, curling closer to their contact.
Instead of feeling protecting, my egg suddenly felt confining and restricting. I wanted to meet this being, and, I realized happily, to be their partner. Their dragon. I threw my weight from side to side, my egg rocking back and forth violently. A soft rasping sound, that of a gasp, was heard from the being, as well as surprise emanating from them. I lunged to my left side, then the right, jabbing my head at the egg's shell. I panted, pausing to rest, and I felt disappointment emanate from the being.
With new-found determination, I threw myself to the right, satisfied when a light cracking sound emitted from it. A sharp intake of breath came from the being near me, though I was too determined to break free of my shell to care. Instead, I lunged fervently at the crack, making it slowly larger and branching off to make more cracks. With a titanic effort, I threw my entire weight at the cracks, a flare of bright light suddenly blinding me. I chirped, astounded by this new world as the warmth of my egg vanished. I staggered blindly before promptly collapsing, another small chirp working its way from my jaw.
Mystification was coming from the being, their entire form rigid with shock. I blinked rapidly, trying to clear my vision as it was blinded. After several long moments, I managed to keep them open and look around with wide, curious eyes. Dimmed light cast itself around the small room, falling upon numerous strange objects. My wings were sticky with the fluid inside my egg so I licked them clean, forgetting the other being's presence. A tentative footstep, the dull thud as it hit the ground, came nearer to me, drawing my attention. I chirruped, staring up at the being with curious eyes.
They paused, smiling down at me with shock, awe, and immense pleasure. I hopped a step back as they came closer, head bobbing up and down as I examined the creature. It was large, and tall, standing on two legs. I glanced at my own, indigo legs, surprised with their color. Glancing back at myself, I realized that I was a rich, almost kingly, indigo. Humming satisfyingly, I watched as the being came even closer.
Crouching, they reached forward carefully as I backed cautiously. They chuckled, then spoke softly. "It's okay. I won't hurt you." The voice, so warm, nurturing, and masculine by its tone, was inviting. I drew forward again, allowing them to reach towards me.
Suddenly, something in the corner flew open and I fell back in surprise. The being gasped, fright and horror radiating from them, and I was panicking with pitiful chirps as two dark presences entered the room. Before my wide, horrified eyes, the first being was cut down by the other two, a small sack enveloping me. I struggled inside the itchy, confined area, alarmed and confused. Something whacked me once in the side and I yelped, struggling more vigorously.
I heard dark voices speaking rapidly, unease and anxiety radiating from every inch of the surrounding area. A hand reached inside of my sack and I nipped it, chirping. A muffled cry of pain reached me before the sack was unfolded slightly and something heavy collided with the back of my head. Stars burst before my shocked eyes and I drifted into unwelcome darkness as the sack came back over me.
I shuddered upon that fateful memory, the air stiff and tense around me. I shivered, though not from cold, but rather fear. Get a grip, I berated myself, though I was unable to stop myself from shuddering. I opened my eyes, darkness still before me. Swinging my head around, I flicked my tongue out, testing the air. I was alone, not even guards posted at the door.
That's odd, I thought warily. Sniffing the air, I confirmed that no one was near or in the throne room. Strange, I mused. Without warning, another memory sprung unbidden to my mind.
I groggily awoke, groaning and shifting on something cool and prickly. Moving again I felt the same pricking feeling. Tentatively, I opened my eyes, finding the dark beings watching me unblinkingly. I chirped in fear, backing slightly to find something tied around my neck. I glanced at it curiously, tugging at it to find that it was connected to something else. A tree, I realized, as I followed the line. I chirruped again, trying to tug it off, but it wouldn't budge.
I growled, glaring up at the two beings with hating eyes. I could sense wariness coming from them, seated by a blazing fire. Glancing around, I noticed belatedly that it was dark out, night. The two beings suddenly conversed quickly, saying words indiscernible to my confused mind. One was a large, cloaked figure with brown hair poking out from under the hood. Cruel, wicked eyes gazed at me from under the rim of the black cloak and I backed fearfully. The second being, only slightly shorter than the first, was just as threatening. Also wearing a concealing cloak, the being was shadowed to darkly for me to distinguish its features.
The first being rose, towering over me and approaching threateningly. Seating themselves before me, the being drew a small, sharp object from its cloak. With a movement to fast for me to follow, they slashed the object across my brow, pain erupting from the wound. I cried out in agony, feeling the being place their own bloody hand upon my bleeding brow. Chanting something in a dark tongue, darkness flooded over me in an agonizing wave of pain. I roared, though it was rather pathetic, and writhed under their grip. Withdrawing slowly, the being emanated success.
Pain clouded and fogged my young mind, everything a blurry cascade of agony. I tried to press it aside but it overwhelmed me. After several futile moments, I stopped, panting, as the pain became a steady throbbing inside me. I gazed down, shocked and terrified, as the indigo coloring of my paws was washed over with black. Craning my small neck back, I watched as my tail, back, and wings were similarly dyed. Lastly, my vision went entirely black before flaring back.
Blood-lust and power radiated from every inch of my being. I struggled to press them back but it was of no use as my innocence was stolen. I glared up harshly at the being, who was smiling in success and snarled venomously, slashing outwards. I was satisfied when a surprised yelp came from them. Before I could latch on properly, though, I was thrown backwards, slamming into the tree I was tied to brutally.
I staggered upright, swaying uneasily. Growling menacingly, I attempted to attack the being once more, but was met with a strong kick to my chest. I yelped as I hit the tree again, my vision flashing black as my head collided with it. Refusing to be defeated so easily, I rose for the third time, lunging forward and trying to grab the being. I realized belatedly that I was still tied to the tree and was yanked backwards a moment before I would've reached them. I threw my weight against the tree violently, frustrated and terrified. The beings chuckled at my display, amusement and triumph emanating from them. I snapped my jaws threateningly, a small click emitting from them.
An unwelcome presence suddenly thrust itself into my mind, breaking through the last barrier I had set up against being controlled by the power. A roar suddenly built inside my throat, rumbling loudly before breaking free in one that defied my age. The presence instilled false memories in my mind. How foolish was I to believe that the other could possibly be my rider? This was my rider. My master. I was to obey my master. There were no questions. I would not hurt master, nor would I leave master. Master would keep me safe if I obeyed master. Yes, master was my savior and I would be my master's.
And I am Shruikan.
That was the last thought that the new being forced upon me before their presence left in an agonizingly painful withdrawal. Untying me from the tree, my master backed again, standing at full height. "Come," master commanded in an authoritative voice. And so I came, hobbling to their side dutifully. "Stop," they then ordered. I halted. Chuckling darkly, my master smiled wickedly to the other being, darkness emanating from them both. Instead of defying it, I embraced it, feeling powerful. "You are my dragon, Shruikan. If you obey me, I shall let you live." I nodded slightly in submission while my master laughed aloud. "Dragons," they—he, I suddenly realized—commented to the other being. Both stared at me with dark eyes as I stood, defeated, before their penetrating gazes.
A wave of darkness assaulted me and I succumbed to it, falling to the ground, unconscious.
My head shot up from my paws in a quick sweep. I glanced around warily, trembling more violently now. Quickly flicking my forked tongue, I was relieved to find that no one was around. With an uneasy breath, I settled my head back upon my crossed paws, panting quietly. It's in the past, I tried to convince myself. Get over it. But no matter how much I told myself this, the memories assaulted me anew.
The days were long and cold in the mountains. Master was often angry at me, yelling at me curse words. I backed away like a whipped puppy, trying to appease him. He was unpleased. I was beaten to toughen my scales, and I was starved to increase my durability. Merely a month old, I was left to fend for myself from predators, sometimes forced to confront them when I would cower away from the fight. I barely managed to break free of the rope binding me to a tree when confronted with a bear, narrowly avoiding being killed. Master found it amusing; I was too terrified to eat that night.
Master's partner—Morzan, he called him—was hardly better. Baen, Morzan's enormous crimson dragon, was my 'teacher'. More often than not I was simply his chew toy, a way for him to put me down while venting his own displeasure. Once, he kidnapped me with Morzan, though when I managed to escape, bloody and broken, to my master, I realized it had all been a ploy to see if I would survive.
Baen's sessions with me were long and difficult. He had me try and lift rocks far surpassing my ability and would burn my legs if I failed to do the impossible task. I sincerely tried to lift the boulders but they were far too large. I was left to limp back to master and pray that I wouldn't be beaten. The burns were sometimes so severe I was unable to walk, forced to stay wherever Baen left me, unable to fly at such a young age.
I learned that 'come' meant 'I'm angry at you.' Knowing this, I hid in trees and caves, only to be found by Baen. He would then uphold the meaning of 'come' before dragging me back to master. Master's name was forbidden to me, and if I said it, I didn't eat for a week. It was one of his numerous ways to control me.
Months of such harsh treatment passed painfully slow. Tied to a tree every night, I was desensitized from cold and heat by the raging weather I endured during those sleepless nights. My scales, tainted deep black, were hard and smooth, toughened by our sessions. The boulder Baen had me try and lift was nearly off the ground, though I still failed to manage such a task and instead suffered the punishment.
I was slowly growing stronger, and larger, as the days passed. I could hunt for myself, no longer having to try and grab some of the bits from Baen's kills. The largest animal I caught, a small buck, left me with a broken leg. I devoured my kill hungrily before limping back to my master. Master took no pity for my broken leg, instead forced me to live with the pain. I had seen Baen injured, yet Morzan would heal the wound. I was given no such pleasure.
At five months of age, Baen had me eating a special kind of tasteless rock called Blazestone. Though they were hard to swallow and keep down, I realized that by eating these rocks, my fire power was sparked and I managed my first flame on the eleventh day of my fifth month. Baen was hardly impressed by the meager fireball, though I was practically brimming with excitement when I returned to master.
Once I learned to breathe fire, Baen began instructing me how to control the flame and worked to increase my endurance. Do not stop now, he snarled distastefully when I exhaustedly collapsed to the ground. When I made no move, he shot a short fireball at my legs. I hissed in return but didn't rise. Keep going, hatchling, or I'll—
Do what, Baen? I finally snapped angrily. Burn me? Go ahead. It's not like I haven't had that before. Or perhaps break a leg or two. How original, you ugly snake.
Bad move. For Baen went into an angry fit, roaring heatedly and grabbing me aggressively. He threw me in the air, shredding me to pieces. He was inches from killing me when Morzan intervened. The moment Baen was out of my line of sight, I passed out from exhaustion and pain.
My head throbbed achingly when I eventually awoke, surprised to find myself at a makeshift camp with my master, Morzan, and Baen snarling in the shadowy forest around us. He did not leave, nor did he come closer, simply stared from the darkness with raged ruby eyes. They narrowed when I started quickly, leaping to my feet in a desperate move. I stifled a roar of pain and collapsed to the ground. My left leg was certainly broken, my right hardly better. I craned my neck back painfully, feeling the bloody scabs stretching, and looked at my wings. Nearly shredded, they clung limply to my shoulders. I winced and glanced at my tail; half of it was missing, a bloody stub marking the new end.
I noticed that master and Morzan were discussing something in quieted tones. Baen was rumbling with anger, growling from amidst the surrounding trees. Night had cloaked the forest, plunging it into near darkness. A small, blazing fire was at the center of our makeshift camp, several bedrolls and packs of provisions nearby. The low sounds of the night buzzed softly in the background, though I was focused on my master's conversation.
"Baen tells me that Shruikan insulted him and was simply disciplining him," Morzan said in a low, accusing voice.
"I will not have that stupid dragon killing mine. He may punish him, not try and kill him," master hissed in a deadly quiet voice. I shuddered at the thought, licking a claw to appear less conspicuous. It appeared that master hadn't noticed that I had awoken.
"Baen is allowed to deal with the hatchling however he pleases," Morzan snarled.
"I will not tolerate Baen trying to kill him!" master suddenly roared. I shivered, backing away slightly. I accidentally stepped upon a branch, the light snapping alerting both Morzan and master of my presence. I shifted uncomfortably under their accusing gazes. Though I was now quite large, I felt dwarfed by the intimidating men and snarling Baen in the shadows.
"Let the hatchling fend for himself," Morzan said threateningly. Master's gaze was locked upon me, obviously considering. There was a certain coldness in his eyes that told me he was about to say yes. I ruffled my wings uneasily, forgetting my injuries. I muffled a cry of pain and looked at him desperately, hoping that he would bid me mercy.
"No." The word was tense, clipped, and allowed no room for argument. I held my breath in anticipation of Morzan's answer, though he seemed too surprised by master's response to do anything.
You're lucky, stupid hatchling, Baen hissed to me privately. I shuddered, backing further, clamping my jaws shut tightly to avoid roaring with pain. Master's attention was back to Morzan when I managed to look up, vision blurred slightly. My head swayed with fatigue. I slowly adjusted my front legs before resting my head between them, wary to let my guard down. Baen's deep, hot breaths were near me, sending tingles down my spine. I tried to ignore his proximity and relax, though he crept even closer as I shuddered again.
Go away, I begged as his taunts continued.
He snapped his jaws threateningly from the nearby trees and I instantly silenced at the rebuke. My eyes were wide with fear as I heard the soft thudding of his footsteps, master and Morzan unnoticing of his near silent approach. My heart races as I feel his heavy breaths rolling over me, the shuffling of him in the bushes nearby. Too frightened to let my guard down, I lie awake as he waits for me to drift into unawareness.
I don't give him that opportunity, for I was awake long into the next morn when we set off.
My paws were clenched tightly and I shook with rage upon remembering Baen and his horrible lessons. I was snarling unintentionally as that night in particular was resurfaced, the terrifying fear of him that dominated me entirely. I was far too young to be of any threat to him at that time, but another era had drawn my attention and I redirected my thoughts toward it. Relaxing only slightly, I lowered my head back to my paws and closed my blind eyes, remembering.
I was strong enough, now, to take revenge upon my 'teacher', Baen. At nearly three years of age, I was quite large. Baen still towered over me by at least a head, but I was no longer as intimidated by his enormous stature. Instead, I was more concentrated on proving to him that I was the better fighter, as well as to finally have my say in all those torturous months he put me through.
One day, when Baen was 'instructing' me how to immobilize an opponent dragon when we received an urgent mental message from Morzan that told us to return to them immediately. Grateful for a reprieve from Baen's teaching, I eagerly took off and trailed the mental path Morzan had given us to follow. Something seemed amiss as I approached their current standing, an uneasy feel in the air. I shivered slightly but shook off the feeling and surged forward.
Dragons! I exclaimed in astonishment as I picked up an entirely different scent from the air. I shuddered and redoubled my pace, fearing that master was in trouble. The smell of foreign dragons was stronger with each flap of my onyx wings, growing closer with each gusts of wind.
After what seemed dreadfully long, I sighted master and Morzan seated comfortably in a clearing with several others. A large turquoise dragon sat beside a tall, dark haired-man nonchalantly, glancing around at the gathered group. A sea-green dragon, shoulders tense and nostrils flaring uneasily, was behind a young, copper-haired woman, whose stance was just as wary. Silver eyes spotted me first as I descended from the shadowed tree tops, their owner cocking his head in thought while another man, this one with rich black hair, gazed up at me.
I landed amidst the circle, my eyes narrowed and teeth bared in a snarl, a rumbling growl filling the clearing. Quiet, master snapped and I sullenly obeyed, my gaze unwavering. The silver appeared to be the eldest of the group, though I was more focused on Baen as he landed, forcefully asserting himself by snapping his jaws at the turquoise. Instead of cowering from the challenge, the turquoise roared in response, white fangs gleaming threateningly.
Baen hissed, claws digging into the earth as he struggled against an unseen force. I wondered for a brief moment if Morzan was involved. A moment later, Baen ghosted over to Morzan's side, gazing at the dragon disdainfully. I opened myself to the other dragons in an attempt to determine whether they were friendly or not. What I received was an outpouring of thoughts as the three dragons conversed, Baen's venomous thoughts leaking into the conversation. Swept away in the maelstrom of indistinguishable phrases, I realized my error belatedly as the three dragons viciously turned their accusations to me.
. . . Stupid dragon, probably can't even speak.
Hey hatchling, what's the matter . . . ?
You're such an ugly beast. . .
Ha! Some dragon . . . !
Aw, I think we're confusing him.
Poor, little hatchling. . .
Stop, stop, I moaned as I tried to pull away from their incessant taunting. Barks of laughter rang out through the link as I withdrew heavily. I staggered to master's side and glared at the three dragons hatefully. Master, why are they here? I asked him warily, my eyes drifting over the group. Master didn't respond, instead glanced over at the snarling Baen and equally vicious turquoise.
"Vrendar, I see you've acquainted yourself well with Baen," master commented sarcastically as the snapping dragons reluctantly silenced. Vrendar growled slightly, master's harsh glare a warning as he slowly quieted. Master strode over to the silver dragon, standing before it with clear authority. The silver was puffing thin clouds of smoke in disapproval.
"Shruikan, quit being so stiff and come greet our guests." I unwillingly followed his command, the silver seeming as displeased as I was as we briefly inclined our heads to one another, stiffly exchanging simple greetings. "Shruikan, you will treat Saedor with respect, as I expect no less of you, Saedor." Bowing my head slightly, I shifted my gaze to the final, sea-green dragon. While Vrendar and Saedor were both males, I could sense that this dragon was female.
"And alas, we have Sitera." I cautiously approached her, though she tensed and snapped her jaws ominously. I growled low and dipped my head in silent acknowledgment, though she was no less tempered. "Now, now, let us not be so aggressive to one another," master admonished. I forced a slight cheeriness into my voice as I greeted her, though she gave no reply. I sighed, frustrated.
Master, why are they here? I finally asked again.
"Why are we here?" master said aloud. He laughed cruelly. "Why, we are here to make history. Soon, we shall do what has been deemed 'impossible'. For in only a week's time, we will destroy the riders who betrayed us." Vrendar grinned viciously while Saedor bobbed his head in agreement, growling with eagerness. Sitera's harsh stare was impassive, though I could sense the vengeful desire invoked in her as well. I resisted the urge to sigh, thinking this would just be another mission. I couldn't have been more wrong.
Vrendar, Saedor, Sitera.
Their names seemed to awake their spirits for I could almost hear their cruel taunts. You never deserved to be a dragon, hatchling, Vrendar's voice suddenly said. My eyes widened substantially and I could, for a brief moment, feel the turquoise dragon's unwanted presence.
I hope you're rotting somewhere dark, Vrendar, I snapped vehemently, though his reply was dark and mysterious.
Then you rot with me. His presence vanished, replaced by Saedor's familiar one. Hey, hatchling. Having fun? His voice, to my astonishment, was pleasant and friendly.
Saedor, I muttered, and I could hear his light chuckle.
Death has freed me, Shruikan. I am sorry that you must suffer. Truly, I am. His presence was genuinely sorrowful and I felt warmth and a slight smile curve my lips.
All is forgiven, Saedor. I am glad that you are happy.
Fate has not abandoned you. Happiness awaits you, Shruikan. All you have to do is take that first step towards it. We watch our own brethren from afar, and you have not been forgotten. Remember that.
I shall, I said softly, surprised by how much death had lightened the cruel weight life seemed to chain him with. With a last, sighing thought, he left.
I'll be blunt with you when I say that life has not been kind to any of us, you in particular.
The new, feminine presence of Sitera was, like Saedor's, far kinder than in life.
Now why does death change you so much? I mused.
Death doesn't change us at all. It takes away the burdens of living and allows us to be free.
I could not deny the wisdom in her words, yet something about them darkened my own mood. Before I could ask more, she had vanished, leaving me alone and feeling rather empty. I sighed deeply, the cold of the room settling into my bones and making me uncomfortable. Even the fire within me could not stave the aching throb developing in my stiff legs.
I was racing Saedor, who was the swiftest of the three, through the snow-capped mountains, tight wings straining against the brisk wind and pushing themselves to their limits. I was panting heavily after nearly an hour of such intense flight, Saedor hardly showing any fatigue. His eyes were impassive and uncaring as he flew forward like a silver sword, slicing through the air gracefully. I was tired of racing him, knowing that it was futile as he was far faster.
The moment I slowed, Vrendar shot up from beneath me, ramming into my side like a bull. I gasped upon the impact, struggling to regain control over my flight. What's the matter, hatchling? Vrendar hissed disdainfully. Saedor glanced back when he noticed the turquoise dragon.
Vrendar, you're not—
Shut up, Saedor. Besides, this hatchling should be able to fight for himself. His sneering face was a double insult and I growled menacingly as we hovered before one another. Fight me and prove yourself something better than dirt.
My irritation had morphed into fury when he continued and I suddenly found myself roaring and tackling him mid-air. Our razor-sharp claws tore into each other, digging into the hard flesh of our sides and our vulnerable bellies. He roared and jabbed outward with his head. I was too slow to block the blow, instead taking it impassively and continuing to tear at his side. We were falling through the air, impact imminent if we didn't separate. A mad gleam glinted in his eyes as he locked his claws on my forelegs, dragging me down as he snapped his wings shut. I tried to stay in the air but our combined weight was far too much for my straining wings. At last moment, he rolled and released his claws, swooping back into the air while I crashed into the earthy ground.
A moment later he was back, tearing and slashing at me while I writhed on my back, trying to get up. Is this the best you got, hatchling? he snarled as he tore at me voraciously, bloodying my form. I hissed dangerously, swatting blindly at him. With an enraged roar, I finally managed to regain my footing, circling him as he did me. We bared our teeth and snapped our teeth, our nearly synchronized circling preventing either of us from gaining an opening. At last, he faked an attack to my right side before lashing around when I snapped outward and tearing a bloody claw along my side.
The more blood I lost, the more raged I became. The roughly cut wound gaped lazily on my side, blood flowing out in ruby tides. I struggled to see clearly as my vision abruptly fogged and flashed colors. Instead of collapsing to the ground in defeat, fiery anger consumed me and I lashed outward at him with murder in my eyes. He sidestepped the blow with ease, surging into the air and maneuvering away from my snapping jaws. I thrust myself into the skies as well, following him more by the invisible air trail written in his wake than my poor sight.
Suddenly, my path ended and I swung my head around, vision too blurred to distinguish anything. I cursed bitterly, sniffing the air in vain hope of finding his scent. For a moment, I was dumbfounded, unable to find him and alone. Then, my vision went completely black as I caught the fleetest glimpse of his crimson dyed claw swiping forward, the pain on my face excruciating. Even as I fell through the air, thrashing madly under his grip, I could feel him tearing at me angrily, venting his own rage and displeasure upon my beaten hide. For the second time, I collided with the earth in a monstrous collision. This time, however, merciful darkness overcame me as stars burst before my blind eyes, head spinning. Vrendar's grating, venomous chuckles echoed in my ears as I drifted away from the world.
Remembering Vrendar is much akin to remembering an old injury – formerly forgotten – the moment after you've hurt it again.
I sigh heavily, trying to keep my composure calm and unperturbed by such thoughts. Loneliness ebbs away at me as I blankly stare outward, eyes blind to the world. The amplified darkness only adds to my gloomy mood. I flick my tongue out once more, tasting the air for anything.
I am alone.
As for most hours of the day, solitude is my best friend. I listen and wait for something to happen, though the stiff silence is a suffocating force that smothers everything. I wonder what Galbatorix is doing for a fleeting moment before redirecting my thoughts to the hatchling, Thorn. I almost chuckle at the thought of his rider, Murtagh. Oh how the boy hates me. He would sooner kill me than befriend me, only seeing me when Galbatorix requests his presence and during training. In a sense, I pity the boy, having to put up with Galbatorix for so many hours of the day. Then again, I wallow in self-pity for the same reason.
Speak of the devil, I muse humorlessly as I hear the door open. My ears perk up and I stiffen, tongue flicking out to test the air. Never mind. Not him. The light shuffling of footsteps reaches me as I hear them approach, pausing mere yards before. Their demeanor is that of rigid respect, my blank gaze unwavering despite my temporary blindness. Either they do not notice this handicap or they simply chose to because they remain in place, unmoving. Anxiety and distaste emanate from them as they clear their throat. I wait for them to say something, though empty silence is all I receive.
Well? I ask impatiently, my gaze hard despite my unseeing eyes. At first, that same silence meets my ears.
Then: "I need your help."
I learned that Vrendar, Saedor, and Sitera were part of a new group that we formed called the Forsworn. I, apparently, was to be alongside Galbatorix as leader, a title not unnoticed by the other three. Vrendar vehemently resented my newest promotion, though I stiffly accepted his insults and tried to ignore them. Saedor was an impassive observer to Vrendar's rants, watching from beside his rider with something akin to distaste. Sitera, unlike Saedor, took pleasure in making my life as miserable as possible. Her words were said in a witty fashion that enraged Vrendar further, pushing him towards an inevitable fight.
Baen watched with a haughty gaze that challenged Vrendar to attack him from the sidelines as he attacked me viciously. Instead of meeting it, Vrendar was enraptured in tearing me to pieces, and soon Baen was forced to tear him from me when Morzan called for a stop. I panted, glaring up at the turquoise with hatred gleaming in my eyes.
Hatchling, Vrendar snarled before taking off with a sweep of his wings, disappearing in an instant.
Vrendar's riders name was a mystery to me, much like his personality. He was distanced and secluded, often vanishing for days at a time. His gaze was always threatening, face locked in a constant snarl. When I caught the two together, they seemed a perfect match with that same bloodthirsty gaze and heartless sneer. Unfortunately, encountering those two together was as dangerous as stepping between two snarling wolves. I never left unharmed.
As weeks passed and I hit another growth spurt, I learned how to fight another dragon. More precisely, three dragons. Vrendar was the most aggressive; his strikes were strong and painful like a bear's. Saedor was quick, his like that of a snake, waiting for the opening before lashing out and pulling back before a response attack could be made.
Baen, as usual, was an ambusher, appearing in the middle of the fight with brutal blows that often forced an air fight to the ground or a ground fight into the air. He then took charge with beating me to a pulp before finally allowing me to flee. Coward, he always called after, echoed by Vrendar. Saedor was the silent one, though secretly I knew he agreed. Hardly fair, for Vrendar alone was nearly twice my size, Saedor hardly smaller. Baen, of course, towered over them both, though he and Vrendar were just as intimidating.
Once I was confident in my own strength, I finally found the courage to try and lash back at them, taking the offensive. Momentary surprise flashed across Vrendar's face as I struck out at him before he dodged quickly and responded with a snap of his jaws. Saedor took advantage of the moment and struck at my exposed left foreleg, nearly catching it before I managed to wrench it out of range. I swore when I felt dagger-like teeth sink into my shoulder, jerking my neck around to find a very smug looking Baen gripping my flesh with unrelenting strength. I roared in his face, blinking in surprise when flames burst from my maw.
The roar Baen unleashed was nothing short of terrifying, startling both Saedor and Vrendar as they watched, frozen, as Baen wheeled back wildly, black smoke trailing his face. We were frozen with shock as we watched Baen, hissing smoky breaths, approach again. His face was scarred with a deep, bleeding wound that crossed from his left temple to the tip of the right side of his jaw. The sight of his pain and blood invoked a new sensation within me. I could feel the darkness, pressed back time after time again by my resolute determination, surge forward, overpowering me. My indigo eyes flashed orange, my lip curling back in a snarl as I faced him.
The last thing I remembered was roaring and sinking my fangs deep into his neck before memories failed me and a trapped demon was finally freed from within me, lashing out with ferocity unseen before.
With what? I asked, dreading his answer. Murtagh, the young man before me, shifted on his feet restlessly, obviously uncomfortable in my presence.
Thorn.
Fear flooded me and I asked hastily, Is he alright? What's wrong?
I think my concern surprised Murtagh for his stunned silence indicated that he wasn't expecting such a reaction. Finally, he spoke again. Can you . . . talk to him? He asked hesitantly, the request unsettling him.
Why? I asked, my voice neither harsh nor kind. Neutral.
Shruikan, you know I wouldn't ask unless I was desperate, he said seriously, a grudging hint in his voice upon admitting his weakness. He's troubled. He refuses to speak or eat and is simply miserable. Can you just . . . well, I don't know.
You want me to see if I can bring him out of this, I finished for him simply. Though I did not see it, I could almost feel him hang his head.
Yes, he replied sheepishly. I sighed deeply, uneasy with my own thoughts. How would I offer any consolation with such a troubled mind myself? I finally decided that Murtagh seemed rather distressed upon his dragon's depression and with that I spoke my answer.
Can you get him to come here? I'm afraid I cannot leave to him.
Murtagh seemed utterly relieved that I agreed to his request as he spoke though I praised the boy at how he managed to keep his voice steady. I can get him here. I shall be waiting.
Rage, I realized with a cruel glee, was powerful and devastating. A part of my subconscious praised me while the other stowed itself away silently, disapproving. I ignored that part, instead allowing myself to be consumed by my own fury. I was stronger, fiercer, and almost invincible. Wounds did not hurt, pain did not bother me, and my only desire was to kill my opponent. I almost succeeded on Vrendar one day, coming too close for comfort.
While my fiery rage was a strong asset, it was an equally dangerous enemy. I tried to suppress it but with each time, it grew stronger. I knew that I was falling to it, though my mind seemed to calmly accept this, embracing the idea more interestedly than I would've preferred. The rage was a demon locked inside me that burst forth in my anger, sprouting to my consciousness and claiming my mind and body to its will. I could ill refuse.
You must control your temper, Saedor chastised to me one day on a flight, privately broadcasting the thought. Or it will destroy you.
Come, come, Saedor. It shall make this all the more interesting, Vrendar sneered, snapping at my neck. I swayed out of the way, low growling rumbling the air as we faced each other.
Go away, I snarled.
Make me.
And so I lashed out at him, feeling the red haze overcome my vision, bloodlust course through me, murder flashing in my eyes. I hissed venomously before striking forward with a speed that surprised even me for a moment. And with that I grasped his neck in a death embrace, fully intending to kill him. He snapped and tore at me though my anger prevented the pain from affecting me. I was locked onto his neck, unwilling to be tempted or cast away. Flesh compressed beneath my fangs, blood pouring into my rumbling mouth. I savored the taste viciously, crushing his neck further.
And then, the tide turned. Baen, who normally allowed me to wound Vrendar – or vice versa – was suddenly tearing apart our fray, prying my teeth from his neck with a careless yank. My teeth jerked back bloodied as I panted heavily. Baen glared at Vrendar, who was growling and tentatively craning his neck over to stare at me with his own piercing gaze. When Baen's attention drifted towards me, I was unfazed by the anger in his crimson eyes.
Enough.
The way he said it was powerful and cold, wrenching me from my raged state. The haze was lifted and my racing heart slowly steadied. I glanced at Vrendar's bleeding neck and nearly frowned, though the lingering anger instead curled my lips into a smug smile. A grating snarl came from Vrendar in response though he was too injured to roar or breathe fire. I smirked successfully, flying back towards master proudly, unconcerned with the other two dragons. Saedor was simply stunned with shock, hovering before Vrendar and Baen with a blank expression.
That's right; just watch me leave.
And the entire way back I felt their eyes boring into the back of my head, something akin to awe and fear in them.
Fear is powerful, I reflected. Hate is deadly.
It had been three years since Vrendar, Saedor, and Sitera had first appeared. I had grown to an enormous size, my onyx wings stretching to a sizable length. My shoulders were broad, chest hardened, back strong and smooth. I no longer feared or held the slightest of respects towards any of them, instead obeying none but my master's words, and only when he forced me to. I was rebellious and determined to prove myself a fighter, face seeming locked in an eternal snarl.
I noticed that with each month, I grew more vicious and hateful, starting fights more often than engaging in them. I felt the uneasy giddiness of being thrilled with such terrifying rage, determined to kill my opponent. Only another's intervention prevented me from doing such.
One night, amidst the glow of a dark fire, we sat, master rising to stand in front of me while the others stood before their dragons. Baen was shadowed deeply behind Morzan in the eerie light of the fire, fangs gleaming angrily. Vrendar was slightly less intimidating, though his stiff posture suggested his pent up rage. Saedor was rather impassive in his calm stance, Sitera considering in her quiet, moody one.
"Tomorrow, the riders will be destroyed." He paused to let his words sink in before continuing powerfully. "Tomorrow, we will make history." Another pause. "Tomorrow, the world will crumble to our power."
Master spoke with such a fervent determination that I was flooded with eager desire to achieve such a goal. The others seemed to agree for their muttered indistinguishable conversations with one another. Master wasn't finished yet.
"But before we can do such, we must meet those whom will fight with us and create a new world." Then, a rumbling snarl emitted from the nearby trees, followed by the shuffling of branches and leaves. In several thunderous steps, a large, dark violet dragon emerged. The male was an admiring size, his blazing eyes glancing at our group warily. Suddenly, two more dragons appeared, indigo and russet. Another pair then walked forward, orange and scarlet. And another, silver and white. Lastly, a black dragon and an emerald dragon came into sight. Gazing around in concealed awe, I numbered our group: thirteen, not including myself.
"We are the Forsworn," Galbatorix said in a dark voice. "And together we shall rule all." A deafening roar came from the black dragon, nearly shattering my ear drums. Several others joined it, feral bloodlust drowning out their voices. I felt compelled by some wild force, some urge to let my own voice be heard, and so I too roared, an incredible sound of power. With the awesome display of strength, we made ourselves known to the world.
And so, the Forsworn were created.
A mistake, I realized. The worst of all my errors.
I sniffed the air curiously, detecting nothing except several rats lurking in the damp walls of the room. Vermin, I thought disgustedly.
I was soaring through fogged clouds, preparing for my descent swiftly. Master was perched on a newly fashioned saddle on my back, wielding a strong-looking, sapphire blade. I watched him slash it in an experimenting swing, satisfaction emanating from him. To my left flew the scarlet dragon, Maer, and to my right, the emerald, Iondur. Maer was stoically calm, her face unreadable in its unchanging expression. Iondur, on the other hand, was nearly bursting with excitement, growling low in anticipation.
Quiet, I snarled to him, not tolerating such childish behavior. He snapped his jaws in response, though I simply snorted and flew on, unhindered by his annoyance. Maer seemed equally irritated by his restless growling, the human equivalent of fidgeting, though she chose to ignore it.
Raeli, the dark violet male, scouted ahead of us, merely a speck in the distance. Being the sole wild dragon, he was the most elusive of our group, mood undeterminable at most times. Except when he was angry. Then it was quite clear. His brother, Gaemr, the russet male, was bound to a female rider whose name was unknown to me. Gaemr was rather secluded as well, though his anger was less apparent.
Kamr, the male silver, and Eyrana, the female white, were also siblings, though aside from their similar flying patterns, the two were as different as light from dark. Kamr was wild, Eyrana was cool. Both were fierce fighters, though Kamr seemed stronger at night while his sister seemed to thrive upon the day. From the days of travel I'd spent with them, I'd learned that they shared a rather amusing hatred of one another that led to their close friendship. Aerora, the female indigo, and Syari, the female orange, were sisters, and equally ferocious. I admired their swift attacks, speed challenging Saedor's in their snake-like strikes. Baen was less pleased, though I think his displeasure was more towards the fact that they could beat him in a fight than anything he held against them personally.
Lastly, there was Osiron, the black male. He was the largest of the group, and no doubt the most dangerous. He was strong, sharp, and quick. A fight with him lasted a mere three seconds before the other combatant was pinned to the ground and yelling at him to stop. Osiron had no siblings, and was as close to wild as you could possibly get short of being a wild dragon. His rider was nearly as untamable as he was; an angry male human. We gave him a respectful distance as he flew close to our group's front, right behind Raeli.
The rest of our group had spread out and flew relatively close, though Raeli and Osiron were far ahead of us. Slowly, the rocky crags near Osilon loomed before us, jutting into the sky like a gaping shark's mouth, fog lacing between them. It was ominously still and quiet, though aside from our own rasping wing beats, all was silent. I breathed deeply the watery air, wings sighing along powerfully. We swiftly approached our destination and I could see a large gray mass seated in the distance. Bearn, I thought devilishly. Time to die.
Raeli was hidden by the dense fog, though I could sense his animosity even from such a distance. I suppressed a shiver; I was glad he was on our side. Hide behind the clouds and attack from behind, master commanded me. I nodded slightly, tilting so that I slipped behind a thick group of clouds. I continued flying forward, trusting instinct more than sight to lead me to my target.
I dove through the clouds with ease, tilting again so I angled behind Bearn's position. I dove again, almost there. . .
Bearn's snarling face growled before me, not a foot from my own, rumbling with hot smoke and opening his maw to breathe fire.
I barely managed to duck out of the way from the sudden attack, flame singing my side. Mild pain, nothing permanent. Keep going, I told myself stubbornly. I wheeled around, Bearn's teeth snagging on my right foreleg dangerously. I tore it from his grasp and whacked him with my tail, satisfied with the dull thud accompanying it. Bearn gasped as the wind was knocked from him but instead of falling back, his eyes narrowed and seemed to glow with anger.
In a series of strikes far too fast for me to follow, he had managed to tear my left shoulder, burn both sides, and shred my belly terribly. I could hear my own breath the blood rushing through my ears as I coldly gazed at him. A red haze draped itself over my vision, pain clouding my senses.
I panted, fiery smoke blowing from my flaring nostrils, jabbing outward with my head and slashing with my razor sharp claws. I roared in a challenging manner before ramming into him, my inner demon unleashed. And we fought in the skies, bloodying the ground below with crimson drops as roars erupted around us from the raging fights.
I remember the fight in fragments, brief snatches that could foggily be pieced to make a single scene, as I flew past the members of our group. . .
Raeli's thunderous roar as he struck down a gold dragon, locking his wings in a dive and pursuing it. . .
Baen's hot smoke blowing past me as he scorched another crimson dragon's side, its roar of agony pounding against me. . .
Aerora and Syari teaming up against a brown dragon, tearing it from the skies. . .
Vrendar, in all his wicked glory, snagging an emerald dragon amidst the chaos and snapping its neck in a sickening crunch. . .
Eyrana and Maer fighting an orange dragon on the ground, slashing and jabbing at it ferociously. . .
Saedor locked in a fierce grasp with another white dragon, not a single mark on him. . .
Sitera attacking a silver dragon from above, locking her wings and plunging them both towards the ground. . .
Iondur grappling with a violet dragon, claws digging into the other's side and drawing rivulets of crimson blood. . .
Osiron, like a demon risen from the underworld, covered in his enemy's blood, holding a writhing yellow dragon in his poisonous teeth. . .
I shudder thinking back upon that day, a final scene emerging. . .
Jabbing outward, feeling the warm flesh of my opponent's neck compress under my pressure, heedless of the brutal blows Bearn dealt me as I continued to sink my fangs deeper. . .
The taste of that rich, coppery blood upon my forked tongue, a cruel delicacy as Bearn's rider, Vrael, cried out in dismay. . .
Bearn writhing out of my grasp, blazing me with fire that never reached me, shielded by master's spell. . .
Exhaustion creeping upon me, dragging me down, my wings too torn to flap. . .
But determination rose and I stubbornly gritted my teeth and panted, determined to have my victory, slowly flapping my wings and trailing after him. . .
The long pursuit spent in cold, wind, and rain as I followed Bearn's disappearing trail. . .
Baen and the others finally catching up as we found Bearn and Vrael. . .
Master's cruel trick as he cut down Vrael, Bearn's dying roar echoing harshly against my ears as I smiled wickedly in success. . .
And then the world went black.
I'm sorry, Bearn, I apologized to no one in particular. I heard light clicking of claws upon the marble floor, soft breathing rasping in the silent halls. I flicked my tongue out, Thorn's scent wafting towards me. He stopped, I heard, near the edge of the room, soft shuffling as he moved. Then, he settled himself heavily on the ground, unease radiating from every inch of him.
Thorn, I greeted neutrally, waiting for him to speak. A soft snort answered me, more shuffling as he shifted. What's wrong? A reluctant grunt answered me. I see, I said in mock consideration. He growled slightly and I resisted the urge to chuckle. Will you not say anything? I asked, being only partially rhetorical. He grunted again. I rolled my eyes, wishing I could see the expression on his face, determine what was wrong. Then again, I could guess what the flat stare he was probably giving me looked like. And so I waited in silence for an answer.
I groaned; a dull throbbing pounding in the back of my head. I stiffly cracked open an eye. It's dark, I observed initially. Where's master? was my next concern and my head hurts was the last. Draping a paw over my eyes painfully, I closed them and attempted to fall back asleep.
"Finally awake," master's voice interrupted. I grunted and shifted my paw slightly, rather confused and disoriented.
Yes, I said dully. I am.
Took you long enough. Of course, Baen. His ever-cheery mood was just what I needed.
Hatchling killed Bearn. Impressive. Saedor. It was almost a compliment.
So what? Vrendar, in his agitated mood, growled.
Now they're in for it. The riders won't stand another day. Sitera. Hers was rather dark.
"We storm Vroengard tomorrow. We shall destroy the last of the riders, once and for all."
Ugh, why can't we just rest? I wanted to protest, though I knew better than to argue with master. Burns, tears, and bruises made themselves known in their constant aching. I suppressed a groan and flicked my weary gaze over to the others.
Night had settled upon the clearing at which our group had congregated. A cracked, rocky bluff loomed on my left side, trees encircling the hardened ground in a ring before melding into dense forest. A campfire blazed in the center of our group, shadowy gleam darkening our faces. Absent from our gathering were Raeli – not surprisingly – and Osiron. The rest formed a semi-circle, backs to the trees and gazes locked upon me. Master and the eleven riders present stood in a circle by the fire, obviously having been discussing something before my awakening.
I could've counted the number of scales on myself faster than the amount of time it was taking for him to answer. This was getting ridiculous. It was not difficult, honestly.
A quiet, almost ashamed, voice interrupted my thoughts abruptly. Have you… ever just wanted to escape?
The question startled for I had entered the thought on numerous occasions, though I had never given it particular importance. I shrugged a shoulder wearily. I suppose it has crossed my mind on occasion… why?
Thorn sighed deeply, hot breath steaming out in a gust of dry air. It's just… I don't know. I don't even know why I'm bothering talk to you.
Ouch. That hurt. I wouldn't let him know that, though. Instead, I said, Well, I don't know either, that is, unless you tell me.
Another sigh. Then, I don't like being here, Shruikan. I don't like having to obey the man I despise and watch my rider be whipped into obedience…
Neither do I was the desperate thing I longed to say, but I once again said coolly, Well, you're not alone. I'm certain he does not like how you are treated.
Galbatorix assigned me to kill Saphira, Shruikan, Thorn said with a broken voice. Tomorrow.
I was aghast. Kill Saphira? The last hope of the dragon race... what was Galbatorix thinking? Are you sure? I inquired, my voice sounding terribly weak and concerned. I cursed myself bitterly in silence. I could feel his nod.
Unfortunately. 'Find Saphira and kill her. If her heart is still beating by the time the sun rises again, I shall kill your precious rider.' His exact words. Thorn hung his head in shame, something that I could feel radiating off him in waves as he forced himself to swallow his pride with each word.
Don't worry, I calmed in what I hoped was a soothing voice. He can't be serious.
But he is, Shruikan. If you had seen him… he wants me to kill her! I can't kill her! It would destroy the dragon race! A sly smirk curled my lips despite the situation as I commented, And because you've fallen in love, haven't you?
Yes, Thorn admitted dreamily. I instantly understood how infatuated he must've been to so quickly admit to such, not even bothering denying the fact. I sighed.
I'll see what I can do.
Thank you, Shruikan. Thank you, Thorn said softly, bumping my head with his in a rare gesture of simple thanks. I blinked my blind eyes before nudging him in the direction I instinctively knew led to the door.
Go, I urged, and don't worry about it. I'll handle this.
And he left, leaving me alone once more. I glanced up at the darkness hopelessly, despairing what I would have to try to do.
Midnight. I think I found some solistice in the darkness of the night, natural, cool, and in a strange sense, beautiful. It eased softly along my wings in brisk black sheets, angling over the shadowed world in a taut sheet of pure darkness. Only master was with me, perched upon my obsidian back with a cruelly regal stance. I longed to throw him off once he reiterated - in agonizing detail - what I had done, as well as the Forsworn, to the dragons. It was awful to hear that retelling, particularly Bearn's cruel demise. I hated myself.
Then, he contacted me abruptly, voice filled with wicked malice. Now, Shruikan, the riders have fallen, and we shall rise.
As much as I hated it, I knew that his words were true. And they burned, to know that I had tasted the blood of my own kin and enjoyed it, enjoyed their screams of pain, enjoyed their desperate attacks that seemed to do nothing. It was a feeling of horror so deep I wondered if I would ever overcome it.
Baen, Saedor, Vrendar, Kamr, Iondur, Aerora, Sitera, Raeli, and myself were the last of the Forsworn. By now, the others had perished, to both other riders hands. Galbatorix had established his kingdom in the city of Illirea, or as he know called it, Uru'baen. I snorted softly at the irony, gliding along the nightly currents with ease.
Yes, master, I humbly agreed, hating myself more with each word.
That's right, Shruikan. I am your master.
I had no clue that that would be the final time I would stretch my black wings and soar the skies.
Why? I asked angrily the moment I sensed Galbatorix enter the room, feeling his smugness. Why would you do that?
Oh hush, Shruikan. Do you honestly think I would so quickly eliminate my chances for this? No. In fact, I plan to let him worry for a while longer before convincing him to leave and instead attack the gold dragon, Glaedr.
You evil little. . .
But my curses were on deaf ears, for Galbatorix had left. I growled bitterly, settling myself down before sighing.
Why won't this just end? Why can I not be granted the slightest mercy and just die?
Death is not the answer, a rumbling voice answered knowingly.
Bearn? I asked incredulously. I sensed confirmation.
Correct. Listen to me, Shruikan. What you did of the past was indeed wrong, but there is time to fix that for the future. Do not let it control you. And Baen says that he wishes his son luck, despite everything he did to you, and apologizes.
Baen, I mused, apologizing. I nearly laughed aloud.
I don't have much time, but know this Shruikan. Where the darkness and shadows grow, good is always amidst it. You simply have to look for it.
How?
Bearn chuckled amusedly. If I simply told you, that would ruin the fun of it, now, wouldn't it?
I suppose, I conceded grudgingly, seeing no joy in the situation. A new strength infused in me and I glanced up, feeling the slight brush of a dragon's hot breath reach me.
Watch, Strong One, for many things approach.
And then he was gone.
And the day faded to eve as the shadows grew longer, the night colder, and the room quieter. Yet I felt some sort of kindness and reason in his words, and, with a slightly more eased heart and mind, rested my head on my paws, and closed my eyes and slept.