I apologize for the long delay in editing and posting this chapter. I got on a writing jag for another project I wanted to finish. I have been having more issues with my income. But on the bright side, I was able to renew my Grammarly!

Finally, Happy Holidays to all!

Rise of the Dragons

Chapter 15

Forging of the Riders.

Thorn stirred, waking up, still somewhat sore from the previous day's training; the scarlet and crimson dragon lifted his head, yawning out. Beside him was not his rider, Murtagh, but rather Eragon. Oromis had been interested in the riders training with the other's dragons. Blinking his bright red eyes, Eragon stirred as he began to wake up—building bonds and strengthening their ties. The two had become close; He allowed Eragon to wake up naturally; he had had another attack on his back last night while sparing with Vanir.

One of two elven youths that Oromis had chosen to help train Eragon and Murtagh. Murtagh's sparing partner was Sylar. The two young elves had been highly insulting and arrogant. Making fake death blows and saying "dead" after each painless caress of their blades. They even insulted him and Saphira, with Vanir insinuating that Saphira and he had had their minds fouled while in Galbatorix captivity. At the same time, Sylar commented how Thorn must be the spawn of one of the Forsworn dragons just as Murtagh was the accursed spawn of Morzan.

Eragon and Murtagh had both exploded in anger; they had weathered the insults to themselves very well, but their temper flared when they insulted him and Saphira. After the training, although Murtagh and Eragon failed to defeat Vanir and Sylar, The two elves had several cuts on them from the magical blades Leonde had given them. The silver blades darkened with elven blood. After their riders had moved away, he and Saphira had intended to make a point, only to have rolling green fire spew between them as Firnen had made the elves scramble back. The emerald green dragon lay on his belly as his eyes bore into Vanir and Sylar. One sharp word resounded through the entire assembly:

/~Dead!~/

It made Vanir and Sylar turn white with fright. as the other elves moved away from the pair. Eragon was the one who had approached them and said. "You can insult me; you can insult my brother. But do not ever insult Thorn and, more importantly, Saphira again. You are young Vanir, Sylar, like me. So I won't hold a grudge for words spoken by an ignorant youth this time, but Saphira is the last female dragon known. Thus, she will be the mother of any dragon eggs we find or that she lays. She is the final one who will decide who can and can not become a rider. Not Master Oromis, not Master Glaedr. Do not insult our dragons again because I can influence her decisions." The words had turned Vanir and Sylar pale white as if Eragon had sided with Galbatrorix. "As for myself, I will earn your respect, even if it is grudgingly given. "

Leonde, who had been watching, had said to Eragon. "Nicely handled. Although I would have waited until after you had their grudging respect to reveal Saphira is the one who chooses who can or can not be a rider. It makes it much more devastating, considering that Arya said elves can hold grudges for decades or centuries you should consider the same." Leonde slowly advised them, looking down into their eyes as he finally counseled the pair. "I advise you two not to insult Odahviing similarly; I have seen him kill for no reason other than his amusement."

After that little incident, Vanir and Sylar had cooled their heels, but the pair retained the same disgust for Eragon and Murtagh. They continued to show insults with their feinting, the taps to demonstrate where mortal wounds would have been landed. But Leonde had begun training Eragon and Murtagh his way physically. He made the two of them wear weights on their arms and legs, forcing them to spar in thigh-high water with heavier swords than they were used to. As a result, over the next month, Eragon and Murtagh's strength, speed, and agility had exploded. More than once, Eragon and Murtagh had left a welt on Vanir and Sylar.

Thorn could feel how sore his muscles were, having undergone similar training. Leonde had the elves, with Oromis's authority behind him, construct harnesses for the young Skulblaka. It wrapped around their bodies and applied weights that would replace them with heavier weights as time passed, like Eragon and Murtagh. He, Saphira, and Firnen had exploded in their strength, speed, agility, and endurance. Glaedr had expressed disdain that the riders of old had never considered this form of training. Finally, Eragon got up from sleeping beside Thorn. He leaned down to nuzzle Eragon and said, /~are you ready to see what Leonde has crafted for the daggers?~/

Looking up at Thorn, "That's today?" It had wholly slipped Eragon's mind as Eragon jumped out of bed to prepare for the day. He could feel Eragon's excitement. A few days after they arrived in Ellsemera, they met Rhunön, the elf who had forged every blade of the riders. She had been impressed with the swords Leonde had made that the Riders now used. However, she said they were pale imitations of what a Rider's blade would be, Leonde conceded. Still, he also pointed out those blades were not the most robust materials he could work with. And he could forge a blade that could rival any rider's sword. Of course, Rhunon had called his challenge, telling him she wished to see him craft four daggers, each to match the scales of Firnen, Glaedr, Saphira, and Thorn.

The elves were still very upset that he had struck Glaedr, and they were more than a little resentful that Rhunon had been willing to issue the challenge. Oromis and Glaedr had to speak with the Queen and Elven Lords and Ladies, many of whom wanted to banish Leonde under the pain of death from Ellesmera. He pointed out that Leonde was still teaching The Riders his magic but also was the only one who might be able to heal Eragon should their spellcasters fail to find a way to break Durza's Curse.

Glaedr said that as they trained with Leonde on combat in the sky as he rode, Odahviing was the closest match for Galbatorix and Shruiken regarding power and strength, allowing the Riders and their dragons to engage against a highly trained foe in combat.

The Elven Queen had said that the insult Leonde delivered to him was unforgivable, which made Glaedr come right to her face as he spoke;/~I challenged him to satisfy my curiosity to see if he was indeed as powerful as he claimed; he did not disappoint.~/

Eragon dashed out of bed, making Thorn chuckle as he began to stretch. He was looking over at the harness. Today was one of the days he and his fellows could rest. Free of the blasted harness. How it made his muscles burn and ache. For now, he was lying down before standing up. Thorn could feel the ache in his muscles and bones. In the last few days, Leonde had been training Him, Saphira, and Firnen in combat, or rather, the three of them trying to attack and pin Leonde.

Leonde had used dull swords but did not hurt any less when he struck. Practical application was always his teacher. Thorn was just glad that Firnen tried to bite through Leonde's armor, not him. Firnen broke two teeth in that attempt. Even Glaedr was shocked at how sturdy his Daedric armor was. One of the five primary materials that could withstand the bite force of a dragon. Enchanted glass, Enchanted Ebony, Dragonscale armor, Dragonbone armor, and the Daedric Armor.

They finally stood up as Eragon had washed, shaved, and dressed quickly. It was almost like he was getting a gift. Finally, the pair had descended to the ground where Murtagh and Firnen were waiting. "Arya and Saphira are waiting near Leonde's fortress," Murtagh said as they headed out.

Arriving at the area of Leonde's accommodations, there was a massive stone forge, a pair of enormous billows, A smelter, a workbench, and a Grinding stone. The only thing Leonde said needed was a tanning rack. But he had brought leather hides with him, and if required, he could use other materials or get deep into the forest and hunt. He had taken the time to assemble a forge outside his tower to work in the open, while the fortress's interior had its forge; he preferred to be outside when forging.

A few more elves had arrived. One was carrying a large, long object wrapped in green fabric that looked like a match for Leonde's silk cape. It had surprised Thorn that Both Oromis and Glaedr were there. As Thorn and Eragon greeted their master and he in turn them. Orik and Leonde came down the steps of Leonde's home. "I admit laddie, I am surprised at yer skill," Orik said.

"I take my smithing and crafting very very seriously."

"Indeed, there are a few things I think you could teach Dûrgrimst Ingeitum. I never thought you could forge Volcanic glass like Metal."

Walking down the steps, Leonde smiled as he watched one of the elves approaching him; he held that long object. Leonde wasn't wearing his Daedric Armor. Instead, he was wearing what appeared to be an outfit covered in soot and black stains. He smelled of charcoal and fire. He wore black boots with gray breeches and a black shirt with a large, heavy-duty apron around his neck. Around his head was a black hood covering his hair. His hands were wrapped up in thick, sturdy black leather gloves.

The elf said. "While your skill is no doubt unequaled among men." He said in a polite term, "You will not need to forge Rider Arya Dröttningu a blade. I, Lord Fiolr of the house of Valtharo, have a gift for her." Turning away from Leonde, he began to approach Arya. Leonde clicked his tongue in annoyance but allowed the elf to walk away.

Kneeling before Arya, he said, "Rider Arya Drottmingu, I, Lord Fiolr of House Valtharo, hereby present you the blade of Rider, Arva. I bestow the blade unto you as a gift, Támerlein!" The elves gasped collectively as Fiolr took the cloth and began to unwrap it. Pulling it from the scabbard, he presented the blade to Arya. Looking at the blade, she could be seen debating as she looked over at Rhunon and then Leonde.

"Indeed it is a fine gift, and I will be more than willing to accept the blade. But I would have to have the blade reworked to fit my style."

"Támerlein is perfect the way it is, it doesn't need to be reworked." Rhunon said firmly. The idea that someone would alter her work offended her.

"Indeed, Leonde may be a human. But," Arya said, drawing the silver sword from her hip, "Leonde said that he had forged this blade. While it lacks the durability of our blades. The enchantments he has woven upon it have proved very effective. I have used this sword in place of my own since then."

She said, allowing the Elf-lord to inspect the blade. "And I am very interested in seeing his attempts when forging a blade with this Ebony a much stronger durable material."

As Lord Fiolr looked over the intractably wrought blade, he said firmly, "I find it hard to believe that a human could craft something so..." Instantly, Leonde spoke up as his use of the made it clear he spoke the truth.

"I personally forged that blade as well as the blades Murtagh, and Eragon wield now. The ore used for it, was take from the ground by my hand. I personally smelted the ore down, purified it. No one else other than me, laid his hands upon the crafting, of that sword. Or the ones wielded by the other riders. I am also the one who enchanted these weapons."

Leonde's voice was soft and firm. "But that is not the issue here. My skill is unworthy of any elf to use. Much less a princess, much less a Dragon rider."

"That is not the issue here." Lord Fiolr said firmly. "The issue is your arrogance."

"That is not the issue here and I know it. I know exactly the reasons why my work is unworthy of Arya."

"Then please by all means, enlighten us."

"The first issue at hand. I will not waste what little time I have to complete the training of the riders and their dragons by spending three hours prancing around a subject like a gilded show pony. The second issue is that I have used my experience as Dragonborn, which holds the same prestige in my lands as the dragons and riders do in your lands. Save in my lands, there is usually only one Dragonborn; having dealt with all sorts of Political trash, I have imparted my wisdom on how to best deal with it to Eragon and Murtagh. So they know how to deal with political leaders like Ajihad, King Hrothgar, and Islanzadí Dröttning without offending them Or being turned into puppets on their strings.

"Third I am a human dragon slayer. If I was an elven dragonslayer from Tamriel This won't be the problem. You would naturally assume that I am hundreds of years old, and have studied the dragons and understood their nature and you would believe me when I say the dragons of Tamriel are not nice creatures to deal with. But instead I am human. I have told your people of a dozen dragons. Alduin, Kahvozein, Mirmulnir, Nahagliiv, Sahloknir, Viinturuth and a host of others. I have obviously judged the entire Dovah race from the actions of a few individuals. This makes me little more than a Barbarian Butcher in your peoples eyes. And I would love to be proven wrong."

At the last statement, it made the elf lord lift his eyes up in surprise, but it was Glaedr himself who spoke out; the thunder of his voice was evident. /~You are no butcher.~/ The shock and gasp drew the attention of everyone there as the Bronze Skulblaka lay on his belly. /~I have spoken with Odahviing at length. He has told me much of the Dovah of Tamriel; if my ancestors had control over their power, as do the Dovah of your lands. We would have enslaved these lands. Thousands of years ago. I have seen his power, witnessed his strength. And yet, I fear I have only witnessed a small portion of his strength. And you, like him, are both more powerful than any of us can imagine. As you said, after Alduin was vanquished, Dovah's attacks on your people dropped sharply. And that you only killed Dovah when it became an absolute necessity. You are no butcher.~/

The elves around seemed to be looking among themselves. As if the silent conversation was being passed. Leonde exhaled. Approaching Glaedr, he put his hands on his hips and said, "Thank you. Well, there goes my statement of how any blade I craft would, in the eyes of an elf, be considered little more than a butchery tool."

Thorn smiled as he lay down on his belly. "Well, tell me, Lord Fiolr, isn't that how you considered any weapon made by me. A butchery tool?"

With that smug, self-assured attitude, Thorn had come to accept from the elves regarding Leonde, Murtagh, and Eragon to a lesser extent.

"Since we are being blunt. Yes I consider anything you make unworthy of Arya Drottningu, and little more than a butchery tool. Although I can understand Murtagh certainly choosing to wield such a weapon."

Thorn took offense at this. He could feel his temper flare as a bit of a growl escaped his throat as Leonde lifted his hand. "Let him have his opinion." Leonde said, "The first mark of a Tyrant is dictating how people should think." Thorn settled down as he protected his Thoughts.

/~I apologize. Lord Fiolr.~/ He said as he could feel Murtagh's outrage. Still, Thorn bowed his head in submission. Leonde continued as he spoke. Thorn was distraught; he wanted to knock the elf into a tree as hard as possible. Insulting his rider was something Thorn hated; how the young elves seemed to enjoy comparing Murtagh to Morzan. The fact that The elf lord did not choose to acknowledge Thorn's apology annoyed him, as if his being joined to Murtagh had made him less of a dragon.

"Now we get to one of the real issues is when Oromis said "You will defer to my authority." I delivered an insult to Oromis when I did not instantly drop to my knees, groveling, thanking him for his generosity, and pledging my unwavering obedience to him. To make matters worse, I had the audacity to actually dare challenge, a rider's authority. But the ultimate insult, was when Glaedr himself challenged me. I actually had the unmitigated gall to strike him. And show him, just how weak he had become."

With an almost sneering smile, "Yes those are the reasons at the heart of this matter. Were it not for Oromis and Glaedr, you would be lucky to leave Ellesmera alive, much less why I have not struck you down myself here and now."

"Don't forget about Odahviing. That three hundred-ton dovah might express his displeasure in a very harsh way."

"Indeed. And you haven't even had the decency to apologize to Glaedr, Oromis, much less any of us for this affront."

At this point, a soft yet firm voice spoke up as Oromis asked. "Why should Master Dragonheart apologize to me, when it was I who insulted and challenged him first?"

The question from Oromis caught everyone off guard, save the riders and the other dragons. Islanzadí Dröttning was the first to ask, "What do you mean Rider?"

Oromis was almost shocked as he looked to Glaedr and then Leonde. It was Glaedr who then asked, /~You mean you have not yet realized it was Oromis who insulted and challenged Leonde Dragonheart first?~/

The Queen was utterly shocked at the idea that Oromis had been the one to start that entire incident. But Thorn decided to explain it. /~Orik,~/ and it Got Orik's attention then. Thorn knew the dwarf did not like him and liked Murtagh even less;/~What if you had been training us instead of what Leonde and Oromis had said to you. "Very well, you may accompany us. But as we share our secrets with you, you must reveal yours to us. You will also defer to my authority." How would you have reacted?~/ Orik's disdain at being asked by Thorn had not gone unnoticed. But the dwarf said.

"My Loyalty is to mine Clan, and mine King, As is Leonde's to his Empress. Was I a grand dwarven army general answerable only to my king. I would take offense at being ordered to yield. And the dwarves have never allowed the riders to patrol our lands. And in Leonde's distant lands, the riders are unknown to them. It matters not that I do not have an army with me. I would still expect to be shown the courtesy due a General."

Leonde was the one who spoke. "What if he said, 'You may accompany us. But as we share our secrets, I ask you to reveal yours. I must also ask you to defer to my authority.' How would you have replied?"

Orik had closed his eyes and exaggeratedly nodded, "Yes, I think I might have been willing to defer to his authority. Master Dragonheart. Although I would expect my secrets to remain unless I allowed to share them."

Oromis spoke firmly and softly. "We riders have grown so used to those around us obeying us without question, That I made the mistake of assuming Leonde would do the same, even knowing full well that he came from a distant land, that his people had suffered horribly under the elven group Thalmor, and that he was a General to an Empress. When I told him he would do something, instead of asking him. Leonde responded exactly how Orik would have responded. Am I wrong Orik?"

Shaking his head, "Nay, you are not wrong."

"And my second mistake was allowing my own pride at his challenge to blind me to the first mistake I had made."

The situation seemed to settle down as Thorn saw Rhunon smiling at all this. "And here I thought this would be a waste of my time."

Finally, Lord Fiolr said, "It does not change the fact that nothing you can craft will equal the skill of Reunion."

"Then she will be the judge of that," Leonde said as he moved over to a table with a cloth covering four small boxes. Each one was large enough to contain a dagger.

"It took me very little time using the magic I have learned from you, Arya, to actually invent and test spells." Moving over to a table, he uncovered a box that he picked up and began to approach Oromis.

"Rhunon's challenge to reveal the secrets of forging a rider's blade, was that I had to match her skill as a smith. She gave me a month. I forged four daggers, using the magic spells I crafted to enhance strength and durability. I also enchanted the daggers. Enchanting them with the most useful spells possible for a dagger. Dispel magic, disintegrate armor. It will punch through steel plate armor like a sword stabbing through leather armor."

Opening the box with his slender fingers, Oromis was left a gasp. Reaching in to pull out an eloquently crafted golden dagger. The hilt, cross guard, and pommel cap were wrote of a deep, rich golden color that shined in the light, almost like the sun. A Golden diamond half the size of the one in Naegling rested in the pommel. The dagger's scabbard was crafted out of wood that had been colored or dyed an ivory color matching Glaedr's horns and claws, and on it was gold embroidery.

The dagger was pulled out of its sheath, revealing a deep bronze blade that was long and narrow, tapering to a sharp tip. The blade measured roughly ten inches long, and even Glaedr had to examine it closely. Touching the blade's edge, Oromis pulled his hand away sharply as if he had been cut, and indeed he had; blood trailed down his fingertips.

"Volcanic glass holds one one of the sharpest edges around. Surpassed only by Daedric weapons." Rhunon came up as Oromis passed her the dagger as she inspected it, allowing the blade to cut her in several places. After inspecting it, she looked over at Leonde, took hold of the blade, and walked over to his forge; she lifted the dagger up and, as hard as she could, stabbed it into the stone he used to construct his forge from.

With a flash of light and a sharp crack, Rhunon buried the blade up to the hilt into the stone blocks. She was taken aback by the fact the blade did not shatter as she tried to pull it out of the stone. She yanked on it, harder and harder, before the dagger came out. She dislodged two stones from the forge before saying, "Stone break." causing the stone to break apart around the dagger. Lifting it up, she wiped it off and inspected it.

The shock and amazement on her face made everyone there as she said, "There is not the slightest blemish on the blade. This is the sharpest, strongest blade I have ever seen forged." Returning the blade to Oromis. "Indeed, you are a masterful crafter. More than worthy to forge a rider's blade." Oromis slid the blade back into the sheath and held it close.

"This is a wonderful gift. I thank you for crafting it." Oromis said as Lord Fiolr was somewhat annoyed as Arya approached him and said. "As generous as your gift is, I would disapprove of altering Támerlein, and I require a blade forged to fit my fighting style." which only seemed to offend Fiolr. As he said in polite form, "As you wish, Rider."

Over to the table, Leonde picked up a larger box and approached Eragon and Murtagh. "Eragon, Murtagh. Using a similar design that I have in mind for your respective swords. I have crafted for you these two daggers." His interest peaked. Thorn leaned over as Saphira came close. Being close to her was thrilling, but he knew he had to control himself perfectly. Saphira had made it clear that she would not accept a mate. Even though he had seen her clawing the ground once or twice in front of Glaedr. Thankfully, Glaedr had assisted them with lessons to control these primal impulses.

As the box opened, the top and bottom held two daggers, twins. One is blue, the other is red. The red dagger had a scabbard made of redwood with a slight fire motif. Silver inlay gave the appearance of the edges of flames flowing down from the cross guard of the dagger. The crossguard was of finely wrought silver with the style of a dragon head extending from the guard with two rubies for eyes. Eragon's blue dagger had a similar motif with a light blue scabbard, in sharp contrast to the blood-red scabbard of Murtagh's dagger. A gem of matching color resided in the pommel.

Reaching out, Thorn could feel Murtagh's eagerness as he took hold of his dagger and drew the blade. The scarlet red blade shined brightly as the dark blue of Eragon's dagger caught the light. These daggers were for more than just show; they were functional weapons of war. Finally, Leonde presented Arya with her dagger. The box opened as she withdrew a curved dagger; the scabbard was dark green, like the color of Jade, with an inlay of amber to accent the designs. The dagger's handle was carved in the image of a Dragon's neck, and its head was the pommel.

The mouth of the dragon was open and clenched in its teeth, holding the emerald pommel stone firmly in its teeth; the scabbard was adorned in finely wrought amber pieces mimicking a dragon's body and wings. As she drew the dagger from its scabbard, the cross guard had formed the dragon's chest with the handle of its neck as the wings swung back, covering the top of the blade. The blade curved up for about ten inches. Arya held up the blade as it shimmered in the light.

Even Lord Fiolr was taken aback. "You forged this here."

With a Nod. The Elf-lord swallowed as he said, "I stand corrected. You are indeed a highly skilled smith." Leonde simply said.

"I take my crafting very seriously. Those daggers will never fail you as long as you live. As long as you store energy in the pommel stone. The enchantments I wove will be fueled."

"But like our swords, will it consume the energy in it?" Murtagh asked.

/~How do you forge such enchantments?~/ Thorn asked. He was genuinely interested, and then it was as if all the hard work Leonde had done had finally caught up with him. Leaning against his anvil. He sighed.

Collecting his thoughts,

"This is where the Magic of Alagaesia and Tamriel overlap. It is not out of any desire to deny you knowledge, but it is knowledge I don't want falling into the wrong hands." As he collected himself, he said, "I will explain in detail to the riders in private and allow Oromis to decide if he wishes the elves to know. If so I will pass on the secrets of enchanting to the elves. Speaking of Oromis."

Leonde turned to face the elder rider. "Has the tonic I been giving you helped with your seizures, your Bone Blight Nerve Rot?"

The Elder Rider smiled as he said, "Yes it has greatly. Although it has not freed me from the illness. It has reduced the severity of the attacks."

With a smile, Leonde said. "Good, I called you out here not only to give you your dagger but also this." He said, reaching for a small box on the table as he opened it. Inside was a Phial as white as snow.

"This is the White Phial. Crafted with magics long forgotten, The White Phial is a legendary bottle, forged in the days when Skyrim was just starting its turn to ice. A small container, made of the magically infused snow that first fell on the Throat of the World. It is said that the Phial will replenish whatever fluid is placed inside of it. When I found it, It had been cracked and damaged,"

Leonde showed the Phial as he turned it around. Showing that it had black cracks along the edge that had been sealed. "But it has been repaired, While it will not replenish any liquid placed inside, it will once a day at sunrise refill with the tonic I have been giving you. It has never failed me once in over ten years. It is now yours."

And with it, Leonde handed the Phial over to Oromis and held it in his slender hand. A collective gasp came from the elves as Leonde was thanked by Oromis. "It used to hold a healing potion in it, but what I can brew is far more potent than what the Phial could produce." Thorn was taken back by the generosity of this gift.

The look of shock and disbelief on the faces of everyone that Leonde would bestow such a generous gift on them seemed incredibly out of place. But they did not know Leonde as the riders did, as Thorn did. Leonde took his duties as a teacher with the utmost seriousness. He didn't have time to hold a grudge or be overly nasty; he was still painfully blunt. And while he still had that razor-sharp edge to his temper when dealing with the elves.

But his dedication to training the riders had earned him some respect. If nothing else, for how seriously he took his duty. But it was clear that Leonde was working himself to exhaustion. Forging the daggers and studying the magic, the elves had to break the curse on Eragon's back. Training the Riders and their dragons. The wear was showing. Walking over to the cloth-covered objects, he pulled off the covers, revealing six standing figures of armor. The Vitality he showed in Farthen Dur at the battle was gone.

Three suits of armor that had green-like coverings and appeared to be of a similar style; one had smooth plates, another had green spikes and nodules, and the final one was smooth, almost like formal armor. "Glass armor, armor in the Styles of Morrowind, Cyrodill, and Skyrim and these are ebony armor from Morrowind, Cyrodill, and Skyrim respectively."

Unveiling a set of black armor, the first was classical full plate as Murtagh had seen with a closed helm, it was embroidered with gold; the second set held an open face helm, also embroidered with gold, and the final one was black with silver highlights. The armor's look had caught the elves' attention, who began to come over. "Before you ask, no. I did not make these, but I can forge in this style. Color is not an issue. With some magic, I can alter their colors to match your dragons. Also, I can adjust the appearance of the armor and make custom designs. I can even forge them to have a dragon appearance.

The elves approached the group as Thorn realized that Leonde was reasonably exhausted. Pointing it out to Oromis, he and Glaedr began to speak out to Leonde. /~Have you been sleeping well at night?~/ Glaedr asked.

"There is a quirk about Ebony. You can only forge it at night; it becomes brittle and fragile if you forge it during the day. In the last few weeks, I might have gotten three or four hours of rest at night." He said, shocking both Oromis and Glaedr. The two knew Leonde drove himself hard during the days but with so few hours of rest.

"You are one of the most dedicated humans I have ever met. But even you need rest, even though our time is short. I don't work my Apprentices this hard. And neither should you work yourself this hard." Oromis spoke firmly. "Are you attempting to work your self to death?"

The words had caught Arya's attention as they had the others. Thorn noticed a few glances around. It was as if the elves realized how hard he had been working and driving himself. As if he was working himself to death just to help them. Just as Leonde was about to speak.

"No, no more. For the next week you shall have no more duties. Your stamina and endurance is great. Even for a human. But you need rest."

"Now just a moment." Leonde said.

"You said you would be willing to defer to my judgement and authority. And I am using my Judgement and Authority to order you to rest!" Oromis said in a harsh voice.

Pointing the finger at Oromis in an accusing manner. And despite the smirk on his face, Leonde said, "That's not fair!"

Sensing Murtagh's thoughts, He joined his Rider as Arya, Firnen, Eragon, and Saphira began to approach, all just glaring at him. He looked around as he held up his hands,

"Alright, alright. I yield." Glaedr was content, as was Oromis. "I still have things to do today that must be accomplished. But tonight and the next few days I will rest."

/~A week, no less.~/ Glaedr commanded, of course, as Leonde just exhaled. Giving in.

"Alright. Alright," Leonde consented. "Alright, Eragon, Murtagh, Arya. The armor is enchanted with a minor shield spell. All pieces of it. As a result it will... resize it's self to fit you. I want the three of you to start wearing the armor."

"Which one?" Eragon had asked.

"All of them. I want you three to pick out a suit of armor, light, then heavy and wear it for about a week or so. Then back to light. After a while the three of you will know which suit of armor suits your particular talents. you will wear them during your normal lessons, and especially during sparing. Which now includes you Arya. You will join Eragon and Murtagh in sparring as well."

Lifting her brow. "Why me?"

Looking at Arya as if to ask if she was really asking that question. "Do you think Galbatorix is not making any more of those enhanced warriors even as we speak?"

"They are hardly a threat when prepared for." She countered

"Glabatorix made the mistake of sending them out without proper training once. He won't make that mistake twice. The next batch of warriors will be faster, stronger, and more agile. And actually know what they can do." Murtagh said. "This armor will be the only thing that keeps you alive and, more importantly, FREE."

Arya, of course, agreed. Leonde Continued, "The three of you will always wear the armor, except when sleeping. After a while and in time, the suit of armor you choose will become like a second skin, and like me, you will be able to sleep in it, like I do with my Daedric armor. You won't be able to wear the circlet with the helm so don't bother wearing it. Use the helm. In the event that the magic is dispelled for a brief moment, the helm offers more protection than the circlet would." Finally, Leonde closed his eyes and inhaled. "Vanir, Sylar, front and center now." He said as the two elven youths came up and they greeted him. And as one they said.

"Yes, Lord Butcher." they said, making people gasp at the insult. Daring to insult him so blatantly, making everyone gasp. Leonde didn't mind the name-calling.

"Practical application is the best teacher. During practice the two of you will increase the force of your blows while they wear the armor. Enough to be felt through the armor."

"Yes lord butcher." they said as one.

"Once they have settled into their chosen suit of armor. As time goes one over the course of months. you will gradually increase the force of your blows, Until you can start leaving bruises and welts. But you are not allowed to break bone under any condition. Once the two of you have decided to defy me, and one of you decides to break a bone in either Murtagh or Eragon. Then you will finally get what you desire most out of me. A reaction to your blatant disrespectful attitudes. I won't kill you, or cripple you or be the least bit gentle. Always remember you asked for it."

Leonde said as they seemed to be insulted at his implied threat. "Now out of my sight." They bowed and once more called him a butcher and departed.

/~I am surprised you didn't try to discipline them here and now.~/ Thorn said.

"To the elves, they are children. Children don't know any better. And because they are children. I have to have patience. But when the proper time comes. They will be picking their teeth up off the ground."

Watching Orik and Rhunon come over, the other elves were still inspecting the beauty of the armor sets. "Works of art." Rhunon said,

"Aye better craftsmanship I have never seen. I never thought that light armor could be made to be so strong and light. It surpasses anything I thought possible."

"Are you going to make their swords out of these materials?" Rhunon asked. "A rider's sword was always made of Brightsteel. But I have used all the brightsteel I have found no more."

"I can if they want, but I have been given some thought to that. Eragon do you remember what Solembum?" Leonde said with a smile.

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"Do you actually believe it could be true. That Brightsteel could be under the roots of the Menoa Tree?" Arya asked as she adjusted the armor that she had now worn. Arya had selected the Vvardenfell glass armor; it actually suited her. The helm and shoulders looked like elongated leaves sprouting out to the helm and shoulder pauldrons, and the Wrist guards of the gauntlets had an extension of three leaf-like blades. All of them razor-sharp and robust enough to punch through armor. Eragon had chosen the Cyrodill glass armor. As he hefted the shield up, he was surprised at the weight so light for how large it was. Murtagh had chosen to focus on the Cyrodillic Ebony armor; the gold on black was beautiful. That Red and silver would be absolutely stunning with a dragon motif.

As they moved, Thorn thought, looking over Murtagh's armor, that it was very well crafted. It would serve his rider well. Even better once it was in Red and silver.

"Well." Murtagh said as he explained. "I don't know about you two, but I do know I want an Ebony sword. You saw what Rhunon did to his forge." Murtagh was fingering his dagger. As the Trio approached the Menoa tree.

/~Remember what Leonde said.~/ Firnen expressed concern, /~This may be a waiting game. Short of attacking the Minoa Tree, there is no sure way of getting her to respond to us. And even Leonde said he would hesitate to rouse the anger of the Menoa Tree.~/

/~Leonde may be powerful and arrogant.~/ Saphira said as Thorn countered,

/~He knows his power well. But he is not stupid. It's why he hasn't been defeated. He always assumes any enemy he faces is more robust, faster, and more powerful than he is. And plans accordingly. And he's good at manipulating others. He's used the elves' own nature against them more than once. Such as the incident with Glaedr.~/

"Pointing out how we have treated him like a kitten instead of a dragon," Arya explained as they came to the Menoa tree. Looking up at the great tree, The three riders put their hand on the tree to begin channeling their energy into it. Thorn, like Saphira and Firnen, also did the same. Linking their minds as they spoke as one. But it was Eragon who led.

"I ask forgiveness of this disturbance great Menoa tree. But A werecat I known as Solembum had told me that when I needed a weapon, I was to seek it beneath your roots. The time is not now that we need this. For if we wait too long it may be too late for all Alagaesia." Eragon said, hesitating. "We will return each day imparting our energy unto you and repeat the question to ask for this. Until we are out of time and must depart."

Thorn could sense the consciousness of the tree. It seemed the tree had heard them, and finally came a voice, /~Take it, and go.~/was the sound of branches or roots moving around and pulling out of the way as the contact was broken. Then, the Menoa tree was still as they moved around, finding a large nugget of Metal in her roots. Several elves looked around at the riders as if they were conflicted with seeing the riders having disturbed the Menoa tree. But at the same time, Arya was there, and Thorn could feel the resentment growing as they headed back to the forge to discover Most of the elves had departed, but a few remained.

Rhunon and Orik watched Leonde as he showed them how to smith a Glass shield. Finally, returning, Thorn watched as Eragon presented the large nugget that took Saphira to carry. Rhunon was surprised that Brightsteel had been found as Leonde came up and tapped it.

"That's what I thought... Mithril." He said as now it came down to the riders wanting their weapons. As he expected, Murtagh wanted an ebony sword, a hand and a half with the same cutting power and strength as the daggers. But with an electrical enchantment and a dispel magic enchantment, Arya wanted frost and dispel magic. Eragon Fire and dispel magic. Although he wished to have his blade crafted out of Brightsteel.

Now, it was just a matter of planning the construction. It was decided that the blades and armor would be presented to the riders at the Bloodoath Celebration. Now, it was just time to relax and recover from the week's training at the hands of Leonde and Glaedr. So, for the moment, as the group had left the city for a while, Thorn flew through the air to a ruin at the edge of a river where he could spend time with Murtagh. Alone out of the way, a Refuge where they could call their own.

Leonde had suggested that each rider and dragon find a place in Du Weldenvarden. A place where they could be alone and say anyone else was an intruder and unwanted. The two had found a cave by a small river running through the immense forest. He could feel Muratgh unsure and conflicted. The idea of fighting Galbatorix weighed heavily on his mind. But Thorn had voiced his opinions to fight. He wanted blood for the king; he wanted to kill him to make him suffer for what he did to him, Saphira, and Firnen, holding them for almost a century. Blood for what he did to his race.

Sitting down in a chair near one of the tables Murtagh had made using magic, it wasn't exactly home, but the pair could relax out of the elements even if it rained. Laying on his belly And resting his head down, he heard Murtagh speak. "I will fight Galbatorix." It pleased Thorn considerably, but they knew it was more complex than that. "I will fight and kill him. To be free of him Thorn. Not to prove I am not my father. Not because it is our duty. I do it to be free of his shadow forever. But if it is discovered that the Varden, or the dwarves. Even the elves have attempted to cause me harm. I will not fight Galbatorix if I have to worry about them poisoning my stew, or putting a knife in my back." He could feel Murtagh's conviction.

/~If they do, I will gladly carry you to safety and fly you to Tamriel if possible.~/ Thorn said, Lowering his head to allow Murtagh to hold his head.

"If we discover that we can not overcome him, I won't submit to him; I will flee. I won't hesitate to leave them in the midst of battle. And should we succeed in defeating him. I still want to leave. I want to Leave the known lands until our names are long forgotten."

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"Stop right there Glaedr," Leonde said as Thorn looked at him. "I Disagree with that. The main reason for the chaos and corruption in human lands is the same as for the decline of the elves. But it is not because of the slaughter of the dragons which upset a mystical balance."

Looking down at Leonde, Thorn could see that Glaedr was annoyed with him. Thorn did his best to suppress his amusement, but Glaedr had caught him. /~Would you care to share what amuses you so much, Thorn?~/

With a laughing chuckle, Thorn said, /~I am not sure what amuses me more, The fact that Leonde challenges your beliefs or that he can more often than not prove he has a highly valid point of view.~/

Eragon had spoken up, saying, "I find it most amusing that Leonde can prove his point by asking questions and making you answer them."

/~Alright, what do you think is the cause of the decline of the elves. And the chaos in human lands?~/ Glaedr asked. as he said, /~From your point of view. Don't ask me questions to prove your point.~/

Crossing his arms as they sat on the rock, Leonde stood up and walked up to the heated stones as he warmed himself. "Alright, The elves and humans became so dependent on the Dragon Riders; now that they are gone, it's crippled all the governments in Alagaesia." With a pause, everyone was aghast; even Glaedr lifted his lip in a snarl.

/~Where is your proof?~/ He demanded.

Leonde rolled his eyes as he said. "Ok. Since I have yet to be allowed to read the history of the riders beyond what has been told to me. Now, I consider Elven riders and human riders to be the same. Part of a different culture. Oromis can't walk among the elves and be treated as one of them, an equal you and he are treated with near deity-level reverence. What about you, Arya? Are you not treated with the absolute height of respect? Far beyond when you would normally expect before becoming a rider, far beyond even your mother?"

"Indeed I am." she said.

"The Riders, Human or elf are a different culture. The riders served as advisers and diplomats between the dragons and elves for twenty-two hundred years. Solving problems between the dragons, dwarves, and elves. Then come along humans, spreading like wildfire. The riders had no choice but to include them in the spell between the dragons and elves."

"Why do you say there was no choice?" Murtagh asked.

"Why should we let you police our lands and enforce laws upon our people when we have no say in your ranks?" Leonde asked, and it made perfect sense.

/~It's why the dwarves never allowed the riders in their lands to police them. And it's why they never grew to depend on them.~/ Saphira said

"And why their culture didn't suffer like ours." Eragon said.

/~And who is the teacher here, Leonde or I? I know of what I speak of.~// Glaedr.

"Oh so they are not allowed to hear other possible explanations for the same thing. They must accept everything you say as holy gospel?"

Glaedr bared his teeth as he issued a menacing growl. Taking a step back, Leonde braced himself as if preparing to receive Glaedr's attack. "Are you unwilling to listen to another's point of view?" Leonde asked as Eragon thought of a way to disarm the standoff.

"Master Glaedr. Is this the lesson you wish to teach us, that no matter what. A Rider's view point is always correct?" Eragon said with a smile, making Glaedr turn his head sharply and blink. It unsettled the great dragon at how quickly Eragon had picked up manipulation from Leonde.

/~You may continue, Leonde; I will correct you as needed.~/

"Please do. The Riders saw what I already know about humans. They are destructive and in time, they would accept challenges few would risk. Like hunting down and killing a dragon for sport. But more to the point. The Riders served as the foundation for many human kingdoms. If two kingdoms were having troubles. The riders intervened. If two kingdoms were preparing to go to war. The Riders stepped in to stop it. A tyrant who was abusing his people came to power. You would deal with him or her."

Thorn listened to Leonde as the dragon slayer took a step to Glaedr. "Now, asking around, I learned there were three elves not of the riders Du Weldenvarden at the time of the fall. I am the first non-rider human to enter Ellsemera, or any elven city, in over five hundred years. I know, I asked. The elves always acted through intermediaries unless it was the most serious of issues. The Riders." Leonde said, crossing his arms over his armored chest and standing there.

Holding his ground as Glaedr just rested there on his belly, watching Leonde with his eyes, unblinking as Leonde said. "I don't hear you correcting me, I must be on the right trail of thought. The elves remained secluded in their forests, only allowing the riders to be the only real outsiders. When the elves were stationed in Farthen Dur. All they did was keep to themselves. Seen, not heard. The aid given to the Varden, Food, clothing, materials. The elves should have been teaching the Varden."

/~That is the duty of the riders! Not the elves~/ Glaedr said firmly.

"Then I'll write a missive to Galbatorix, ask him to postpone the war a couple years. To give us time to train the Varden." Leonde countered

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"Do you actually think Galbatorix would listen to such a missive?!" Murtagh blurted out.

"You never know, maybe he will allow us to train the Varden, just so he can see how it unfolds for his amusement." Leonde countered. "What better way to crush hope for everyone than to say, 'Yes, I will postpone the war, allow you to build your strength, after all your hard work in reaching my city. I come out and easily crush your resistance to me.'." the mocking tone in his voice was very sharp.

Walking forward, Leonde looked at Glaedr. "The elves used the riders to insulate themselves in the forest. Protect them from the outside world, shielded from the approach of time. The elves as a race have stagnated as a culture."

"Now I think you are going Too far." Arya said sharply as she stood up.

"I can prove it, Arya," Leonde said, turning to her. "Look at history starting with the inclusion of humans into the ranks of the riders."

Thorn looked to Arya as she stood her ground. Leonde: "You know what I say is true. Go search your archives. Your history of the Elves' interactions with the Dwarves and humans."

Standing there, Arya just looked at Leonde as he remained passive. For someone who had just insulted the entire elven culture, Arya was reasonably relaxed, Thorn thought. "I hope to prove you wrong."

"I hope you can prove me wrong. I hate being right all the time."

With the lesson disrupted, The group returned to Oromis. As he stood there impassively. With Leonde riding with Murtagh, Thorn was confused as he told Murtagh. /~remembering what I learned of how the elves interacted with the Varden, or rather, what they didn't do. As well as Arya's words, we must remember our debt to the elves. I am not inclined to be indebted to them. Not even to the rescue of myself, Saphira, and Firnen from Galbatorix. It was Jeod and Brom who were the ones who rescued us. Not the elves. If I felt any sort of gratitude, it was towards the Varden. They have been taking all the risks.~/

With Murtagh thinking, he told Thorn, /~I agree, and remember what Leonde said. A debt of gratitude must be dearly paid. Ensure we know all the details before we offer payment of such a debt.~/

Murtagh and Thorn shared this with everyone mentally, pointing out other things the Varden and the elves still need to do. Such as educating the Varden, teaching them magic, better smithing, and What plants can be used to help heal wounds. Better healing techniques.

Leonde also pointed out other ways, such as sending out agents disguised as old women and old men. Who can't fight so they won't be pressed into service of Galbatorix Army. Watching learning, simply observing. Locating where his mages are and neutralizing them. Perhaps through this, they would have discovered The Ra'zac and their parents, enabling them to be killed. Thus perhaps sparing Eragon's uncle being killed. Or possibly finding out that the Twins were traitors long before they betrayed Arya's Location.

As the group landed next to Oromis. The winds whipped up dirt and loose flowers. They began to dismount as Oromis approached. He looked healthier with each passing day. As he spoke to Leonde. "You are treading upon very dangerous ground. If these accusations get out..."

"Don't get me started, Oromis." Leonde said sharply. "I have held back a lot of what I have wanted to say about the elves, The riders, and, more importantly, you. But I haven't mostly out of respect for your condition, and age. But if you really want me to go there. I will." Leonde said, anger in his eyes. "And I will bring you to your knees with it. I will make you face the fact of just how far you have fallen."

"I know the truth about myself, I have no fear of your words." Oromis said. Standing tall, proud as Leonde glared at him.

"You will come to regret those words." Leonde said.