Saphira didn't take the joke well, for in the next moment Eragon found himself embracing the dirt, testing its consistence with his face. A few leaves and all kind of particles that were mixed with the dirt made Eragon's face contort in disgust as they sneaked onto his open mouth. Groaning slightly, he pushed himself off the ground, only to be pressed down yet again by a massive force that made his back bones pop faintly.
You don't seem to get along with the ground either, little one, said Saphira as she released a rumbling laughter.
That is very observant of you, Saphira, but could you please get your massive paw off me? I promise I won't bring any scroll near you for as long as I live, bargained Eragon, hoping to put an end to what was supposed to be a fun moment which took a very different turn.
Fortunately for him, Saphira was not in a bad disposition as the weight that pressed him down lifted, allowing him to quickly get up on his knees. A few coughs and spits quickly followed before Saphira brought in her large snout and nuzzled her Rider.
That wouldn't do it, not if you want to keep those precious scrolls of yours from becoming one with the earth. Am I not more important than those useless scraps of paper? Saphira teased with vanity, staring intently at her Rider with a large, glimmering sapphire eye.
Eragon flinched under her gaze, his mind blank to what he supposed to say in order to prevent another embarrassing situation for him. It was always hard to decipher Saphira's intentions, even if the two of them were bonded like vines upon walls.
Of course you are, oh beautiful queen of the skies. I couldn't fathom any reason why should I ignore the attention you show me, answered the Rider dryly and sarcastically. He could barely restrain his irritation at Saphira's erratic behavior, but that was one of the reasons he liked her so much.
Saphira snorted, unfurling her large wings. Then I suppose you wouldn't mind a little flying session, she said as she quickly grabbed Eragon in one of her forelegs, then jumped into the air, flapping her massive wings.
Eragon barely had time to react before he felt something big grabbing him by his torso while his feet left the ground. He tried to scream, but only an unrecognizable screech escaped his throat as the gravity worked against him.
I thought you wanted to fly, not to drag me with in your claws like I'm some kind of animal you just hunted! Eragon screamed in her mind while he kicked his arms and legs, trying to break free from the uncomfortable grip.
Just relax and enjoy the winds of freedom, Eragon. You will feel much better when you will stop trashing like that, Saphira said teasingly as she kept gaining altitude with each beat of her wings.
Eragon gasped after one last effort to make Saphira let go. His face was all red by now, and it was not only due to the strong grip that bound him in place. That's easy for you to say, when I'm the one who's being squeezed to death because my caring partner-of-mind-and-soul has nothing better to do than to play games with me, he spat, funneling a part of his anger through their bond.
Oh, but the games had not yet started. Haven't you said a few days ago that you would like to witness my impressive flying skills?
A wry smile accompanied by a horrified look contorted Eragon's face, making him appear like an innocent lamb in front of a dragon. N, no no that's not what I meant! I only wanted to say that…
The Rider did not even manage to think what he had in mind as Saphira performed a fast loop with a spinning motion at the end. The force exerted on his body and the fast alternation between the land and the sky combined with the spinning motion at the end almost made Eragon throw up.
And it did not end here. Deciding to add a bit more to her Rider's ordeal, Saphira closed her mind, disallowing any conversation between her and Eragon from taking place. Then, with a mighty roar, she began to perform yet another aerial display before she finally touched the ground, freeing Eragon from her grip.
Being all dizzy and to the point of fainiting, Eragon did not think twice before dropping his head on the soft ground. Thank you, Saphira. You have a real talent when it comes to lifting my mood. Remind me to come back to you whenever I feel bad, finished Eragon, his head still spinning due to the recent experience.
Saphira said nothing, but a suppressed growl-like sound signified that she was barely restraining from laughing at the confused Rider's statement.
It took a short while for Eragon to fully come back to his senses where he could feel that he's standing on solid ground again. The only thing he really felt grateful- and kept him from lashing out at Saphira- was that the blue dragon offered him a moment of peace without causing the slightest disturbance.
Eragon slowly got up on his feet and took a few steps towards Saphira, who was resting nearby. You know that I will find a way to repay you for your kindness, right? Said Eragon calmly as he walked up towards Saphira, brushing his hand against the smooth scales of her neck.
Saphira growled in surprise and turned her head around, you can try, little one, but I am afraid that you will never be able to outsmart a dragon.
Eragon crossed his arms, so you say, but I will be the one getting cocky after I will prove you the opposite.
Saphira snorted a puff of smoke in Eragon's direction as a small snarl darkened her features, making her appear quite threatening. I am not getting cocky! That is the reality, and you should accept it without questioning my standing. I am a dragon and…,
Suddenly, Eragon could feel a familiar presence brushing against his mind. Realizing that it was one of the thirteen spell casters, he let him in without hesitation.
Shadeslayer, you must make your way back to Feinster at once! Galbatorix himself has come into our city, laying waste to the main gate and killing anyone that tried to get in his way. Arya and the rest of the spell casters moved forward and engaged him, but I am not sure of their success, not against such a powerful enemy, said the elf.
Thank you for notifying me. If Galbatorix has finally decided to come out of his seclusion, then I will need as much information about his combat prowess as you may offer, he said, trying to keep his thoughts coherent, but without being able to hide the cold feeling of fear that started to embrace his being.
I cannot tell you much, Shadeslayer, for I have left as fast as I could to deliver you this message. The only thing I could see were a mass of soldiers that surrounded him, and in the next moment every last one of them fell to the ground. Only the sound of their falling bodies was heard, for no scream escaped when they fell, answered Erian.
Go…go back and help the others. I will be there as fast as I can, he finished and cut the link between them.
Eragon lay in complete shock at the sudden and harsh revelation. It was not only Galbatorix's presence that made him feel uneasy, but also the fact that he decided to come by himself right after the Varden had secured Feinster.
Feeling Eragon's fear and doubts, Saphira let out a deafening roar, Gather yourself Eragon and don't let incertitude get the best of you. If that egg-breaker has indeed come here, then it is time for us to fulfill our duty and put an end to his miserable life!
You make it sound so easy, Saphira, but in truth it isn't! We are not talking about Murtagh or a shade, this is Galbatorix! Although I despise as much as you do, I cannot help but feel weak and insignificant in front of him, Eragon lamented.
Everything that had happened so far led to this: Saphira's hatching, Brom's death, Durza's demise, the blood oath celebration and the training he received under Oromis and Glaedr. All this chain of events had made him more powerful and transformed him into a fitting Rider, yet something was amiss. Among the feelings of spite and anger directed at the dark king, something else was hidden, something which made him dread the moment where he would have to face the king himself.
His train of troubling thoughts has come to a stop when Saphira decided to grind some sense into him. With a quick swipe of her paw, she unbalanced the Rider and pinned him to the ground, bringing her snarling snout inches away from his face,
Do you want to say that Glaedr's sacrifice has been for nothing? That both his and Oromis's deaths have been in vain? They trained you, Eragon! They trained us both so we could bring down this usurper when the time will come, and now you cower at the sound of his name? WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?
There is nothing wrong with me, Saphira! It is you that needs to see the reality of the situation! Galbatorix has killed hundreds of Riders, many of them who were much more skilled than I am. Do you honestly think that I could stand up to someone that had hundreds of years to refine his swordsmanship and perfect himself in the arts of magic? Eragon swayed his head to the right, staring at a tree aimlessly. He knew that the time will come for him to fulfill his destiny, yet he felt unprepared and unsure of himself.
I understand that we are at disadvantage, but all the free races are counting on us, Eragon. Unlike Galbatorix, we will not be alone when we will have to face him; Arya, the other elves and the rest of the Varden will be there, and with our combined forces, we could drive him back. That's where your power lies, and if we do not put an end to Galbatorix's life you will lose even more of those you hold dear, said Saphira with conviction. Although she was a bit too harsh, it was something needed in order to motivate Eragon.
Eragon could not deny the truth in her words, which were like a righteous stick meant to slap him in the head hard enough for him to realize that there was no easy way for him to escape such burden. His mind drifted to Brom and Oromis, and then, he imagined Arya dying at the hands of Galbatorix. Such dark thoughts made him clench both of his fists with determination.
You're right. For the sake of the Varden, I must do this. If Galbatorix manages to kill the leaders, then all of it, all we have accomplished has been for naught…
Saphira slowly moved away, allowing her Rider to get up. Her fierce snarl has completely vanished, and the rage has left her eyes. Only then her deep sapphire eyes gave away the same incertitude that plagued him. Eragon's expression lightened as he slowly realized that she was just as troubled as he was, the only difference being that she was not showing it.
Eragon slowly walked towards her and hugged her neck, allowing his feelings of gratitude and love to be shared across their bond, I cannot tell you how glad I am that you are with me, Saphira, for I would be lost without you. You are the spark of light that guides me in the profound darkness and fills my being with courage and hope when they have deserted me.
Sapphira hummed in pleasure, I am as well, little one, and I wish we could spend the rest of the time flying together, but now is the time to do what we've been preparing for.
Eragon acknowledged with a nod and jumped into the saddle that was placed on Saphira's back. Let us go then, partner-of-mind-and-soul. I don't want to keep that bastard waiting.
With a loud roar, Saphira leaped into the air, flapping her massive wings furiously. No one knew what king Galbatorix was up to, and time was of the essence.
Wind swished past Eragon's ears as he and Saphira made their way towards Feinster as fast as they could. After a couple of tense moments in which they talked about whatever strategy they could use to overcome their opponent, the city of Feinster finally came into sight.
Eragon gasped in astonishment as his sharp eyes noticed the damage done to the main city gate. There was an uneven hole that destroyed a large part of the massive gate, leaving only the bolts that secured it to the tough stone wall intact. Debris of wood and steel was spread all over the place, some pieces being as large as a horse.
It must have taken a tremendous amount of force to break the massive gate to such extent using a conventional spell like "break" or "explode". Perhaps Galbatorix is more craftier than simply abusing the Eldunari he has in possession, thought Eragon as his eyes analyzed the city, checking for any noticeable damage that could be done while he was absent.
That is why we must be extra careful. The true extent of his powers is shrouded in darkness, and we won't know what he is capable of until we would face him in direct combat, responded Saphira, having heard her Rider's thoughts.
That is why we will have to fight on defensive in the beginning. I will draw his attention towards me and evaluate his prowess with the sword so I could find a weakness that we could exploit. He will probably start using spells as soon as you join in, hence it's best to keep out of the fight as much as possible, for a duel of magic will deplete our energies way faster than his own.
Saphira growled in protest, I won't let you go and face that monster alone. You know very well that bad things happen when I'm not there to watch over you.
Eragon patted her reassuringly, I appreciate your help, Saphira, but I already explained my reasoning to you. It would be harder for me to focus my attention on his blade and your large bulk at the same time.
The dragon's growl slowly diminished in strength as no reply came forth. By now, the two of them have reached the outskirts of Feinster, making a step closer towards the final confrontation. Saphira slowly descended, trying to keep a low profile by making as less noise as she could with the flapping of her wings.
Eragon quickly dismounted as soon as Saphira and dasher towards the gates as fast as he could, leaving his partner-of-heart-and-mind behind. He was about to open his mind and contact Arya and the others, but he knew that this would also weaken his mental defenses, allowing the king to exploit this weakness.
Biting his lip in frustration, Eragon tried to keep his emotions in check and focus on one thing: to bring about Galbatorix's demise.
...
The barracks situated on the opposite side of Feinster bolstered with activity as every available soldier prepared to face the threat that entered their city. While the others distracted the enemy, some soldiers recovered their injured and led them to safety at Nasuada's request. From what the guards heard, the enemy was not interested in slaughtering the whole city, but they did not want to take any chances.
"This man is invincible! He's faster than an elf and stronger than an urgal! How could we hope to defeat him?" Asked a man on a scared voice while he uncertainly buckled a heavy helmed on top his head. The heavy, crude shaped metal was dented and felt uncomfortable on his egg shaped head, but the soldier did not protest. It wouldn't help much against such mighty opponent, yet the higher officers requested that every Varden shall wear proper equipment.
"Cheer up, Veslan. It's not everyday a common soldier like us has the chance to slay a king, eh?" Said another on a frail voice, which couldn't even inspire a kitten. From under his helmet, Veslan tried to sketch an unsure smile, but his lips barely contorted the way he wanted them to be.
"Enough talking! We have a duty to fulfill!" The sudden, deep and commanding voice caused Veslan to jump tensely from his position, his flabby arms swinging like a piece of cloth in concordance with his body as he turned around to face the commander. As he did so, a loose hand knocked a helmet that fell on another helmet with a clang, and soon, a real ruckus had unleashed. Clang!Bang! Every piece of armor now lay on the ground, cluttered in a mass of unrecognizable pile of metal and steel. Every single soldier from the barracks switched their gaze towards Veslan, making him feel most uncomfortable under their disapproving gaze.
"M-my bad," he stuttered, smiling like an innocent lamb. BANG! The amplitude of the sound almost deafened the clumsy soldier.
"Lets see if your little clumsy act makes the enemy smile too," said the commander as he stabbed him with the pommel of the sword in the back, pushing him forward. "Everyone, move out! We have a meeting with destiny." Although his position should impose respect and a little fear, most of the soldiers nodded with half a delay and followed him outside of the barracks.
When everyone was out, he moved in front of the detachment, much to Veslan's relief. A loud cough put them all on guard, "The enemy is strong, I won't deny it. From the report I received, this man single handedly dispatched several of our men." The soldiers glanced at each other, murmuring their opinions and fears. Everyone was frightened. Veslan could see it in their eyes, except for one man. His friend, Rolin, steadied his sword firmly and glanced at him with a resolute look. It was as if he reached an inner accord with himself, no matter what would happen in the upcoming battle. The commander briefly interrupted his thoughts.
"Gather your wits, keep your swords steady, and may our courage prevail!" Every soldier lifted his sword to cheer, and Veslan did the same. Shortly after, the whole battalion started to march towards the main gate, each step carrying them further to glory or demise.
The much dreaded moment was upon them, and there was no way back. When they reached the parameter of the main gate, the small group of soldiers stopped behind one of the buildings for cover, the clanging of their boots halting for a brief, tense moment. Wails of anguish and fear stirred the hearts of the frightened soldiers, but the stoic commander threw them a much needed reassuring look. After the whole group settled behind the building, the commander signaled the soldiers to wait while he peeked with his eagle eyes from behind the building.
Veslan felt his stomach knotting with fear while the food he ate before began making its ascension up his throat. He swallowed dryly to refrain from embarrassing himself in front of his fellow companions, yet his doubts never ceased to torment him. Veslan tried to close his eyes, to calm himself down, but the commander's whisper immediately put him on guard.
"Gather around me, quick." Careful not to make any powerful and unneeded noise that might alert the King, the soldiers grouped around the commander. Veslan's eyes could simply not settle in one place due to nerves. He had the impression that the King might appear out of nowhere and deliver a blow that will bring forth his demise. However, the commander seemed more confident, his bravery being the sole factor that kept these people united.
With a combination of quick gestures and briefly explained strategy, he ordered four of the soldiers with bows to flank the enemy while two archers tactically sneaked through the buildings. Their objective was to find a safe spot on the sides and rain havoc upon the King while the frontal attack breached his defenses.
The piercing cry of death of yet another soldier filled the air, sending shudders through everyone in the immediate area. With the numbers of the remaining allies decreasing, the commander unsheathed his sword, tapped it and then ran his finger across the blade, murmuring something under his breath. Then, he glanced with his unyielding brown eyes at everyone and smiled before he ran out in the open, releasing a heartening battle cry. The remaining soldiers joined their leader with similar intimidating shouts, save for Veslan, whose battle cry was more of a meow of a scared cat that fell in a river.
The sight surrounding the King was unreal; there were corpses everywhere, and Veslan barely suppressed his vomit when his eyes met the dead elves covered in thick vines. The soldiers strode into the heart of battle, balancing the numbers of the remaining soldiers who helplessly swung their swords at their almighty opponent. The King, who held his hooded head down previously, looked towards Veslan and his group, "Rejoice, my helpless puppets. Nasuada sent more lambs to the slaughter." His deep, chilling voice froze Veslan in fear. He just stood there while his comrades passed by him, lifting their swords in glory before joining the endless clang of metal against metal.
Everything seemed to slow down around Veslan as arrows buzzed past his ears and wails of anguish herald the demise of another Varden soldier from the cold green blade of the King. He slowly moved his head around, trying to comprehend what was going on. It all looked surreal to him, and one could read it in his terrorized and powerless stare. How could a single man face two detachments of soldiers and still be the victor?
The two archers from the sides emerged from their hiding spots, launching two arrows while the commander and his men swung wherever they could with great speed. Veslan almost skipped a heartbeat when a revelation struck him: this could be it! By directing his full attention to the frontal attack, the robed man could not stop the arrows in time. Because of the commander's ingenuity, this whole war could end, right here!
With inhuman speed, the King flailed backwards and flicked the green sword aimlessly; or so it seemed to Veslan's eyes. Before his awestruck expression could even leave the paralyzed state, Galbatorix stormed through the soldiers like an unstoppable force. It was all a blur to him, but the sound of swords hitting the ground with a clang was enough to reveal him what just happened. Then, taking advantage of the stunned soldiers, he sheathed his blade, picked up two swords and spun around, throwing the two swords towards the archers, who died almost instantly if it wasn't for their faint cough.
Everyone was completely shocked. Even the stoic commander, who bravely ventured into a fight he knew he could not win, felt powerless against a higher force. Being the only one who still had a weapon, Veslan wanted to aid his comrades; he wished it so much, yet his unusually weak and trembling legs refused to obey.
Run, now! Veslan almost screamed in terror when he heard these two words inside his mind, like someone was incredibly close to him! However, instead of fleeing, he allowed his sword to fall from his hands as he brought his arms around his head, too frightened and confused to do anything. His companions, who previously stood there like statues, used this opportunity to turn around and run like the King himself chased them. For a moment, Veslan thought that Galbatorix would not allow them to flee, but then, something happened.
Past Veslan's right and left, two swords whistled through the air like an invisible force guided them, heading straight towards the king. Before the swords met their target, a tiny yet powerful blue light descended upon the King. It all happened so fast; too fast for someone like him to process. When the blue light impacted with Galbatorix, a torrent of whirling blue flames was unleashed, accompanied by a blast wave of hot air so powerful that it shoved everyone from their bipedal position.
With a speed he did not deem possible, Veslan pushed his torso upwards in order to witness this remarkable power. It was more of a sinister curiosity than actual wish to understand what happened. The intense and hungry blue flames created an incinerating and dazzling curtain that could consume any living being. When the flames started to dissipate, Veslan's jaw dropped in awe. "Sh…shadeslayer…" his numb lips tried to murmur. His blue sword was intercepted by the green one of Galbatorix, who saw right through his attack. But this did not matter to Veslan. Eragon Shadeslayer, the Varden's only hope, clashed swords with the King, ready to inflict justice upon the unworthy.
Thumbs up and review if you liked Eragon's , the most wanted battle is upon us, and I can guess how eager you are to see who is going win. Because this chapter was rather long( 4.000 or so words), I will have to make the next chapter a lil shorter so that it starts and end with the battle. In case it is too short, I'll see what there is to do while keepings its epicness. Before jumping to conclusions such as: This fight has to be really long! It's the fight between Galby and Eragon! I advise you to wait patiently and see how it ends, because it matters