Alright, editor Stryker here, back at it yet again since wolf is off being a lazy bum. Why am I not surprised? Anway, not much happens in this chapter. Sike. Shit starts getting real.

Hope y'all enjoy.

Answers to reviews…

Dragomancer (Bladewolf101 is answering): I don't know why people think Firnen is going to be a problem for Saphira and Ancalagon at all. At best, it'll be like a young, cocky hotshot messing with something he shouldn't and Ancalagon just scoffing and saying "Cute." Besides, even if he tried anything on Saphira, she'd put the youngling in his place… and make it clear she's a very taken dragoness.

Yubel578: Heh. Keep reading and you shall see…

Axelmos2356: You need to end that train of thought immediately. And if you keep it up, both wolf and myself will just happily ignore your, honestly, dumbass ideas. If you're offended by me being blunt with you then maybe you should take a few seconds and think before sending a review. Same logic applies in reality as well. Think before speaking. If it sounds stupid as fuck and is completely irrelevant to the topic, don't say it.

"Who needs magic when you have weapons" is the stupidest thing I have ever heard. I think we'll be ignoring you from now on as wolf and I will be too busy listening to reviews that are actually intelligent.

With the reviews answered, let's dive into chapter 33!

Ancalagon was the first to awaken as the sun was beginning to rise. He groaned as he stretched his legs, tail and neck out in order to get rid of the stiff joints from sleeping in one position too long. But then again, it's not like he had a choice, as Saphira had been using him as her own personal cushion, but she must've shifted off him sometime in the night as she was now laying beside him.

Quietly getting to all fours, Ancalagon padded over to the balcony of the treehouse and stared out at the forest ahead of him. It was a beautiful sight, and at least untouched from Stargazer and Almandine's… show of power yesterday.

That was something. He chuckled, shaking his head.

He glanced back inside the treehouse, his eyes on Saphira. To think of how far they've come since they met, from the days where he tried to keep himself as her friend rather than fall in love with her, because he was human at heart despite his dragon body. But his refusal of what he now was had resulted in creating his darker half, and that caused a whole new mess of problems for him that started at Gil'ead.

Walking back over to Saphira, Ancalagon laid down and curled around her, tail coiling with hers which she gripped tightly and nuzzled him in her sleep. The mating season may be close, maybe two or three weeks away according to Stargazer, but he will do his damndest to commit himself to Saphira, to not disappoint, and he didn't mean… certain activities, he meant the mating ritual dragons go through first. Though, some commonly refer to it as a dance, with a flight in the air, and then something else to make it official.

Oh well, instinct will guide him.

As he settled down to get some few more minutes of sleep before Stargazer and Almandine come looking for him to begin his training, a sharp buzzing echoed through the house,

What the-?! Ancalagon was startled, but he wasn't the only one. Eragon and Saphira bolted awake, the young Rider tumbling out of bed as a result before he shut off the thing making the buzzing sound. The duo groaned and stretched to rouse their bodies, then Saphira greeted her mate-to-be with a kiss.

Good morning. She purred.

Good morning. He kissed her back then looked at Eragon. Morning Eragon. Have a nice tumble?

"Shut up." Eragon grumbled.

Ancalagon chuckled again before he got to his feet and stretched. We all better get ready for our respective training. I doubt we'll be seeing much of each other until we're finished for the day. He said. Or at least, until Stargazer and Glaedr have their spar.

"True." Eragon nodded then patted Ancalagon on the leg. "Take care of yourself."

I always do. Ancalagon said as he gave Eragon a friendly nuzzle.

Saphira let out a snort. I beg to differ. Ancalagon shot her a playful look,. But the two ended up showing their affection through kissing and nuzzling, making Eragon smile before he went to get ready for today. You behave yourself.

Shouldn't I be telling you to do the same? Ancalagon asked with a cheeky grin.

I'm more well-behaved than you, so don't push it. Saphira nipped him. The two chuckled before sharing one last nuzzle.

I need to go. He said, looking at her like he didn't want to. Saphira stared at him, then the two pressed their maws together tightly in a passionate kiss, their tongues battling for dominance before Saphira pushed Ancalagon onto his back and ended up on top with her legs on either side of him, never one breaking their lock of mouths.

Eventually, they pulled away and just stared at each other. No words needed to be said, they knew how the other felt. It was obvious in their gazes. Saphira got off Ancalagon, allowing him to get back to his feet, and joined him on the balcony.

Good luck. The sapphire-scaled dragoness said softly.

You too. He gave her one last nuzzle, then took off with a flap of his wings and in the direction he saw Stargaze and Almandine go in last night, well Almandine who was carrying a sleeping Stargazer.

Day one of training has begun.

Right on time. Stargazer said as Ancalagon arrived at the clearing the two ancient dragons had claimed as their residence. It wasn't much of a clearing, there were trees around that were perfect for shelter and being concealed by the leaves.

So, what are we starting off with today? Ancalagon asked, looking between his adoptive parents.

Stargazer and Almandine shared a look before the maroon female looked at him. As you were told yesterday, you are to confront the darker side that dwells within you. The side you are refusing and allowing to become its own being. You've been denying it since the beginning, which means you are out of balance.

Yes. Stargazer continued where his mate left off. As I told you before we left the Varden, you must learn to accept what you are and everything that comes with it. Do you remember my words from that night?

Ancalagon nodded. I do. You said I wasn't afraid to think outside of the box, that I know my current limits yet I fear my state of mind.

Correct… yet there is one crucial piece you keep denying to make known. Stargazer urged patiently.

And what is that? Ancalagon asked with a frown.

The older male sighed and looked to Almandine to let her answer.

He told you that you must embrace the darkness within your being. Almandine supplied with conviction in her tone. Michael, you MUST harness what you see as that evil within yourself and beat it into submission… otherwise it will destroy your sanity. It was dangerously close to doing so when I stepped into your last nightmare. Until you come to terms with that side and convince it to work alongside you, you will always falter and lag behind. Something that neither we nor Saphira wish to see.

Ancalagon looked at the ground, the weight of their words on his mind. His claws kneading into the ground, like one clenching his fists. They were right. Since the beginning, he's been denying a part of himself, resorting to human logic and being human at heart. He knew that he was a different type of dragon compared to those who bond to their Rider. Wild dragons were more dangerous, prone to their desires to cause bloodshed either for the thrill of hunting… or just plainly for sport. He remembered Stargazer's words in the beginning when he offered him the second chance, that if he falls prey to the dark desires of his form… he would become a monster, something that may not be able to be stopped.

And considering how he easily snapped that night in Gil'ead and allowed the rage and anger to take control… he could not allow it to do it again. This was HIS body. He controlled its movements, nothing else. It was time he confronted his darkness borne from being in this form, and embrace it as one. He had to stop denying it, stop thinking it'll never bother him.

Above all, Michael… Stargazer caught his attention. Do not let that power control you or sway your desires. Keep yourself headstrong and stubborn. Let that power know that it is you who is in control. Make it bend to your will… but do not disrespect it.

Don't worry, I think I know what my anchor is to keep me from falling to it. Ancalagon said, remembering when he snapped out of his rage and saw Saphira clutching him like a lifeline. It was her… without her, he would fall to the darkness. He nodded with determination. I'm ready. It's time the human faced the dragon and accepted it for good.

Almandine nuzzled Ancalagon gently and gave him one final piece of advice as he slipped into darkness.

You will be in the power's territory… use a secondary anchor… or even three in all. Good luck my son.

When Ancalagon opened his eyes…. He was the Michael he once was. Michael the human. He looked at his hands in almost fascination, having it been so long since he felt his human self again. He almost laughed, but knew he had a job to do. He looked around, seeing nothing but darkness around him… until he heard something slithering in the shadows and turned around.

And beheld the glowing orange-golden eyes in the darkness that only belonged to one being. From out of the darkness, like the very dark took a form considering the black as night scales, Ancalagon the dragon stepped forward.

Michael stepped forward as well, determination in his stride. "Ancalagon, I've come to bargain!"

The dragon side of Michael raised a scaly eye ridge before growling. You've come to die and fully surrender control to me? How noble of you.

"No, I'm not." Michael shook his head slowly with a small smirk. "For too long I've refused you, denied you as a part of me. I'm here to correct that."

Ancalagon stared at him before he threw his head back and let out a dark laugh, which was weird on a dragon as it usually sounded like a cough sound. However, right now? It sounded almost like an actual dark, and nearly demonic, laugh. Once the dragon calmed down, he looked at Michael like he was an ant beneath his foot.

Are you? That is so deeply amusing. Ancalagon shook his head and turned to begin circling his human half. You know, I am not just your dragon side, filled with the darkness that you refuse to embrace as part of being a wild dragon. Your… mother was correct when she mentioned I exist because of you and Stargazer. You chose the name Ancalagon because of your knowledge on, what's it called? Oh yes, Tolkien's Lord of the Rings world?

"What are you getting at?" Michael asked with a frown. "That you're actually THE Ancalagon the Black? The dragon who's so big he dwarves mountains? The greatest of all of the Dark Lord Morgoth's dragons? You're saying you are somehow him… or just have the same memories?"

Hmm, a little bit of both. But while I am him… I'm also you. Ancalagon said, stopping and Michael turned to keep him in sight. I got my first taste of the air when you gave into the rage that night of Gil'ead's destruction, when Brom was hurt. You were angry at the situation… as well as yourself. And with that anger, you accessed a side of yourself you were told not to indulge in, but in doing so used power beyond simple fire-breathing. Would you like to see that night for yourself since you can't remember it?

"Sure." Michael said with a shrug, surprising Ancalagon since he had hoped to use that as a way of torment and leverage. With a growl, he closed his eyes and the scene shifted, the darkness fading away, and soon, Michael was standing outside of Gil'ead with a great view… of himself destroying it.

Michael's eyes widened as he watched the enraged version of himself breath fire down on Gil'ead, command shadows to his bidding, using any form of shadow to spear soldiers or create hands that ripped the soldiers apart. Then Ancalagon used lightning, which was also a surprise. But the bigger surprise came when Ancalagon sucked in a deep breath and spoke three words in the Dovahzul, the language of the dragons from the Skyrim universe, and the very world shook from it, with flaming balls of fire falling from the sky.

It was Alduin's Shout from the game, where either it's falling balls of fire, or meteors, that fall and destroy the area.

Michael stared, watching as Saphira flew up and collided with him, holding him. And he watched the anger, and the darkness fade away because of her. "I gotta hand it to you, man. You sure do put on a decent firework display. Nothing like mother and father when they're pissed… but impressive nonetheless."

The scene dissolved back into darkness and Michael grunted when he was picked up and slammed against a wall, coming face to snout with his dragon side, who was growling.

Mock me again and I'll open you from your belly to your brain and feed you your own intestines. The dragon growled darkly. Now you see what you did that night when you gave in. And you can keep denying it, you can say another version of yourself did it, but we both know the truth, there is no difference between us… we're the exact same be-

"I am not here to deny it." Michael said, cutting off the rambling dragon. "I said I was here to bargain with you, to offer you a deal. But you're too busy yapping to sit your ass down and fucking listen, you overgrown, prideful lizard."

Ancalagon stared at the human version of him, then growled and dropped him in an uncaring manner, turning away… and then his tail smacked the human aside, sending him bouncing across the ground.

Why should I care what you have to say? You've been denying me since the beginning.

"I know. And I do apologize for not getting shit settled with you then." Michael admitted, shocking the dragon. "I was afraid, I'll admit it. Afraid of what I might unleash if I, what you and I have both been calling, 'caved in'. But I think we can work in harmony. You say you wanted to feel again, to see the outside world. Correct?"

Ancalagon stared at him, then nodded.

"Well how about this for a compromise between us: You allow me full access to the power you wield, to let me learn how to control it under Stargazer and Almandine's guidance, and I'll allow you access to peruse my memories. All of them. I don't want us becoming enemies because, to be frank, this whole situation is a headache." Michael reached out his hand, as if to shake "hands" with the dragon before him. "What do you say Ancalagon? I honored your form by using your name and you have been a decent host... aside from the nightmares. Dick move by the way. I thank you for allowing Stargazer to use your form to give me a second chance, but this could also be viewed as a second chance for you as well. You can contact me in dreamscapes, interact with me and strengthen my mental barriers, and give me little tips here and there while you can see Saphira through my memories. You will not have her like I do, but you can soar around our conjoined memories peacefully. What say you?"

Hmm… Ancalagon turned away, contemplating, Michael watched him with bated breath. I can tell you are very sincere with your words, Michael. You understand we are the exact same person, and you are wanting us to join together for balance. After being in here for so long, to not want to see more than this… darkness around me, to finally see the dragoness we love…. But how would you expect it to work with me contacting you? We share the same name outside of this place, and I doubt you want to go back to being called Michael. It's not exactly a very draconic name, and mine should be treated with respect. I will not have you discard mine for your real one.

"We'll work it out. I will continue to be named Ancalagon in the real world, though it will be weird if we're both called that. So, do you accept?" Michael asked hopefully.

Ancalagon stared at him for a good, very long, while. He turned his head away, pacing. However, he then came to a stop with what sounded like an amused exhale before finally turning back to the human.

You humans… words are always your greatest weapon aside from your weapons of mass destruction. You destroy each other over petty squabbles rather than sit down and talk like we are. However, that's humans. Dragons are much different. And as a dragon… I will not simply cave into some nice words. There is only one way to truly settle this issue between us. One of us… must submit. And I will let you know, boy… it will not be me. Ancalagon growled, then swung his tail out.

"Woah!" Michael quickly rolled to the side to avoid being smashed by the tail. "So that's how it is? You're just going to fight?"

I'm a dragon, you imbecile! What do you expect? For us to share milk and cookies while chatting? Ancalagon growled.

"I actually expected some tea at four in the evening with some soft biscuits while overlooking a sunset. I honestly thought that the beating Almandine put you through would prove to you that I am her kid. Not you. You submitted to me to help me then, why won't you go through with it now?" Michael stated seriously as he dodged a clumsy swipe from the dragon. "Do I need to get her in here to knock you down some more? It seemed you enjoyed being waterboarded!"

Ancalagon snarled. For a young man claiming he's not a child… you sure rely on mommy's help, don't you? How can I ever take you seriously, accept you as a part of me, when all you do is rely on others for help? You-

"Because I need your help to give me the strength necessary!" Michael hollered, annoyed.

Ancalagon froze.

"How can I rely on myself when you hold the power and strength of the body I'm in?" Michael explained. "This is YOUR body, not mine. I have no idea what I'm doing. You hold the knowledge on the mastery of a draconic form. I'm clueless. That's why I'm here, confronting you, talking with you. It is as you just said: humans hold power in their way with words while dragons rely on physical strength and power! If we fused together and worked in harmony, me giving you access to my base instincts to become more civilized and fluent in working your way out peacefully while you grant me your power in return… We would become one of a kind. Think about it!"

Ancalagon said nothing, just stared. However, he growled and sent Michael off his feet with a tail smack to the chest. Michael fell through a veil of darkness and into another area of his mindscape, groaning. He heard heavy footfalls and looked to see Ancalagon coming out of the darkness, lightning flashing in the sky as if his very presence commanded it.

You lack conviction. Ancalagon growled as he scraped a talon against the floor, sharpening it up.

"Maybe." Michael sighed as he stood and faced him. "But if words will not persuade you, and I know I don't have the physical strength of a dragon like this, then you might as well end this now… and destroy me."

He calmly closed his eyes as Ancalagon approached, expecting to feel teeth or a claw piercing through his body. However, when about ten seconds passed, and he felt nothing, he opened his eyes and saw Ancalagon standing in front of him, staring at him.

Now I see it. Ancalagon said with a chuckle. You were that willing to give up, huh? You understand the difference between the two of us. But… your words have struck me deep, Michael. For you to simply stand there, and accept the possibility of me ending you for good… you passed.

"Wait, what?" Michael blinked. Ancalagon relaxed and sat on his haunches.

While this could've gone the typical way of us battling until one submitted to the other's strength, you chose to confront me in your human form. You knew there was no power in your fists unless it's against another. You might be just the most stubborn being I've ever met.

"Hey, you're me as well. So technically you're calling yourself stubborn." Michael said with a grin, getting an amused scoff from the dragon in front of him. "Is it over then? We cool?"

Ancalagon sighed and stood. Yes… we are. I suppose I'll feel better now that we will be one and the same again. It's like, what is that human film called again? Star Wars? The one with the human turning to the dark side and eventually finds balance with both himself and the dark side?

"You're talking about Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader. They're the same person, just one is dark and the other is light." Michael explained. "And by the end, Anakin returns and Darth Vader dies, though I'm sure it means he's come to terms with his dark self and the two are one. That's what I want for the both of us… just without the dying. You are me, just as I am you. And I cannot continue knowing a part of me is against me like this."

Well… not anymore. Ancalagon said with a small, barely noticeable smile. Brace yourself. My combining with you to form a complete balance of the soul… it's not comfortable.

"Right." Michael said and closed his eyes before everything flashed white. Ancalagon disappeared, and Michael ended up doing the same, feeling… complete.

Ancalagon opened his eyes and saw Stargazer and Almandine staring at him. He groaned and shook his head. Well… that was something. He commented, rubbing his head. Don't worry, I've done what you said. I've accepted the darkness and embraced it as a part of me, knowing I can't deny what comes with this form.

Good. Stargazer nodded. You have done what I wanted you to do. You have embraced every aspect of this form, accepted that it is a part of you. If I may ask, how did you win?

I spoke and used words, a human's greatest tool. Ancalagon explained. He accepted and we've become one.

Yes, we can sense that. Almandine said, leaning forward to nuzzle her son. You make us so proud, sweetheart.

Thanks, Mom. Ancalagon smiled before looking at Stargazer. Now what?

Now… your physical training begins. Stargazer said with a smirk. You have done your mental training in confronting yourself, and accepting the darkness. With this, you should now access knowledge that it kept back out of bitterness of being rejected. What did you give it in return?

The chance to see through my memories, to be free rather than just surrounded by the darkness all the time. Ancalagon said. The chance to see Saphira in those memories and understand why I love her.

And it's a good thing you got this over with. Now that your dragon instincts are fully ingrained into you, they will guide you more directly and strongly than they did before. Stargazer told him with a nod, pride in his words. He then smirked. They'll definitely be of help when the time comes for you to engage in the mating dance with Saphira.

Dad! Ancalagon cried out, a red hue on his cheeks, as the two ancient dragons laughed.

Stargazer looked at the sky, seeing it was mid-morning still. Ancalagon had only been in his mindscape for a few minutes. So they still had time to begin the first part of his physical training.

We still have time before my spar with Glaedr. Stargazer said, looking at his son. We'll begin your training now. Starting with the basics.

Must we? Ancalagon whined, but Stargazer gave him a blank look. Okay, the basics it is.

Everywhere… hurts… so… damn… much… Ancalagon whimpered, wincing in pain every time his wings raised and flapped to keep him in the air as he followed his adoptive parents to the area Stargazer and Glaedr had chosen for their spar.

Learning the basics from two ancient dragons who had vast knowledge, and had taught other dragons his age thousands of years ago, had not been as simple and easy as it seemed. The two were slave drivers! Even from basic flying, they wanted him to do maneuvers that, according to them, dragons a couple of months younger than him would've learned. It didn't help that either Stargazer, well actually it was Almandine, would be shooting fireballs at him to keep him going fast and test his mobility to avoid the danger.

And then came the ground, combat training…. Yeah, enough about that. That's the reason his body hurt so damn much, and he knew it was only going to get worse from here on out. What he went through in just day one… was only a scrap of the basics!

Stargazer looked over at him and chuckled. For having the body of a year-old dragon now, you sure are showing more resilience than most of our students did. Some couldn't get up after we were done on the first day of teaching.

How… lucky… I am… Ancalagon growled, before his wings gave out and he groaned as he started to fall. Oh shi…

Language. Almandine chided as she flew underneath him to catch him on her back. Don't worry, sweetie, mommy's here for you.

Don't… start… Ancalagon groaned, but the two older dragons merely chuckled fondly at their adopted son.

They soon arrived at the meeting point, Glaedr, Oromis, Eragon and Saphira already there. The sapphire-coloured dragoness brightened at the sight of the dragon she loved, but her eyes widened when seeing his state.

What happened? She asked with worry as she came over with Eragon, Almandine gently laying her son on the grassy ground. Saphira nuzzled Ancalagon, who merely groaned as he tried to return the affection.

Oh you know... Stargazer said with a fanged smile. Gotta keep the hatchling in his rightful place or else risk his ego making his head explode.

Screw… you… old… man… Ancalagon managed to grit out before wincing when he moved slightly. God, his bones ached.

Stargazer winked at him. Oh, someone already does that, kiddo.

Star…. Almandine looked at him warningly. Please do not talk of our… private acts with our son, or in front of others…. You've done enough of that to probably scar some people.

So? The male tilted his head. You seemed perfectly fine with Saphira walking in on us while I was actively knot-deep inside you. What's the difference? I see none.

Saphira's cheeks went red at being reminded of that rather embarrassing moment, and it doesn't help that was revealed in front of her teachers and her Rider, who gaped like a fish while his own cheeks went red. Oromis cracked a huge smile and started laughing behind his hand, while Glaedr snorted in amusement.

No way… Glaedr managed to get out in his merriment. Did she actually see–

Yes. The ancient pair responded at the same time. To which the golden dragon lost it, his roaring laughter heard for a mile around.

Almandine shook her head. Focus. We came here for a spar between you and Glaedr, did we not?

Hmmm... The crystal dragon mused as his eyes twinkled. And here I thought we were having a joint sex ed course... but okay.

Please… kick his… ass… Ancalagon said to the golden dragon before plopping his head back down with a huff.

Glaedr chuckled as he stepped forward, and Stargazer did the same. I'll try, young one. Glaedr said, winking at the smaller male before looking at Stargazer. Shall we?

Your move. Challenged holds first strike. Star yawned while sitting on his haunches.

Glaedr growled, narrowing his eyes as he shifted his posture… and then lunged. Despite his wound, he could still move at an acceptable speed, and opened his mouth to try and get either a leg or possibly a part of Stargazer's neck in between his jaws.

Stargazer merely leaned to the side, grabbed one of Glaedr's head spikes, spun in a circle and pulled him down. The golden dragon crashed to the ground and found an amused, if not bored, Stargazer atop him.

Yield?

Glaedr huffed, having already expected to have possibly been beaten by the older, far more experienced dragon. I… yield. He admitted reluctantly. Like all dragons, they did not like to admit to yielding in a fight. They are extremely prideful after all.

Stargazer nodded and lifted his paw to let the other male up. You're still as sloppy and predictable as you were back in your prime, young one. You already know the conditions of the spar. You're getting dinner for us. All of us.

I understand. Glaedr said.

"Well, this has been an enlightening event." Oromis said with a single clap to gain their attention. "However, I'm afraid Eragon and Saphira's first day of training is not yet over. Though, I see Ancalagon has experienced his. Don't you two usually have your students train well until the late evening?"

We do, but seeing as he's rather… broken now... Stargazer said with a grin, chuckling as Ancalagon mustered a growl. His body will need to adjust to what it's going to go through in the coming days. We will take him back to the treehouse where he will wait for Eragon and Saphira to return. He turned to his son. You better rest up, kid, because this is just day one… and we've barely scratched the surface of you reaching your full potential.

Ancalagon groaned again. At this point, he'll take fighting a bear than going through the hell that is Stargazer's training. And that made him wonder what Almandine will teach him, though she hadn't told him yet but said that it will be mixed in with Stargazer's each day.

Glaedr came over and nudged him, getting his attention despite the pain from being nudged. I don't envy you, young one. I went through the same thing when Stargazer taught me. Believe me… the pain will be worth it. Your body will adjust to it.

How… comforting… Ancalagon said then plopped back down.

After the midday spar between Stargazer and Glaedr, Eragon and Saphira went back to training with their mentors while Stargazer and Almandine took Ancalagon back home to the treehouse he stayed in with Eragon and Saphira. They told him to rest up, gave him nuzzles, and then left but not before telling him to be back at the same time tomorrow, getting a groaning huff from the younger male.

When Eragon and Saphira finally did come back, and the day had passed into the evening, they found Ancalagon laying in the treehouse, speaking to none other than Arya much to Eragon's surprise.

"Arya! Why are you here?" Eragon asked, though he was happy to see her again.

"I came to check in and found Ancalagon here." Arya said, lips twitching into an amused smirk. "He has quite the things to say about his parents."

That's one way to put it. Ancalagon grunted, feeling slightly better. Most of his body no longer felt the aching pain, but he knew it was going to be put through that tort- those lessons again.

Arya turned her attention back to Eragon. "Do you plan on spending another evening inside?"

"I—"

"You have been in Ellesméra for three days now, and yet you have seen nothing of our city. I know that you always wished to explore it. Set aside your weariness this once and accompany me." Gliding toward him, she took Zar'roc from where it lay by his side and beckoned to him.

Eragon made to follow with Saphira, then he looked at Ancalagon. "Are you joining us, Ancalagon?"

Brother... I can barely move. What do you thinkmy answer will be? The dragon deadpanned before grimacing as he shifted slightly.

Eragon winced. "I'll take that as a no, then." he chuckled at the glare shot at him by the dragon. "Very well then."

Saphira nuzzled Ancalagon, then gave him a comforting lick. Rest, Michael. She told him softly. I don't want to hear your grumbles all night when I'm next to you.

You try going through their training for one day and see how you feel afterwards. Ancalagon retorted, before he sighed and pushed himself up slightly to nuzzle her. Have a nice time in the city, I wish I could join but…

I understand. Saphira said, then pressed her maw against his in a kiss, one Ancalagon returned full heartedly. Eragon smiled as he watched, glancing at Arya out of the corner of his eye so see her looking at the dragons with happiness in her eyes. However, things started to get a little… awkward when the dragons made no efforts to break their kiss, and it didn't help when their growls turned… lecherous.

"Um, Saphira? Ancalagon?" Eragon tried, but was ignored. His eyes widened when Saphira pushed Ancalagon onto his back, to which the male began running his paws up and down along her sides, growling almost possessively. Eragon looked at Arya, who shook her head slightly. "Guys!"

Once again, he was ignored as the dragons continued basking in each other's affections. However, Eragon knew differently. Since he was connected to Saphira and felt her emotions, he could feel lust building and building up until it threatened to consume her. He didn't know where it came from, and he could feel the same thing from Ancalagon. His cheeks turned red as he caught on to some very suggestive thoughts.

Ancalagon managed to roll himself over and pin Saphira on her back, growling as his tail caressed her underbelly and her own tail, licking, softly biting and nipping at her neck. Saphira merely gave pleased growls, then gripped Ancalagon with her forelegs and hind legs, which pulled Ancalagon's hips flush against her lower body.

Eragon's eyes widened. He had to stop this before something happened, he was sure it wasn't mating season already. "GUYS!" He shouted, both physically and mentally.

What?! The dragons snapped, tearing their gazes from each other to snarl at him. However, Eragon gestured to their positions and the lust seemed to fade from them as they realized what was going on. Ancalagon quickly got off Saphira, despite the pain his body was in, looking apologetic.

Sorry, Saphira! I… I don't know what… He started.

It's okay… it happened to me as well. Saphira said before sighing. Mating season is close… and we're beginning to feel its effects. Our instincts are urging us a lot earlier than intended. It's nothing to worry about unless we are able to control ourselves while being affectionate. Although… neither of us will be in control when we are giving into our instincts during the mating cycle.

Ancalagon nodded, then looked at Eragon and Arya. Sorry you had to see that… don't say a word to mom and dad, please. I'll never hear the end of it from them.

"No promises, young one." Arya said with an evil smirk before walking down the steps.

Ancalagon watched them go, then laid down to get some much needed rest. He's going to need it with the hell he's going to go through in the next few weeks.

Later, when Eragon and Saphira returned, waking the male dragon in the process, the Rider told him of the sights Arya had shown them, from introducing them to the smith Rhunon, to taking them to the fabled Menoa Tree at the heart of Ellesmera. The young Rider seemed to have relaxed as well, but Ancalagon suspected it had more to do with the company on the tour, than the tour itself. A slight teasing from Saphira towards her Rider confirmed Ancalagon's suspicions and he chuckled.

Saphira came over and cuddled up with him, and he draped a wing over her. There was no awkwardness from their earlier… affection. They understood what had caused it, but that didn't mean there wasn't a voice whispering in the back of their heads how they should try again without being interrupted.

Soon, the dragons and Eragon settled to sleep.

Ancalagon awoke the next morning... to find himself falling from the sky with six roars of laughter bellowing in his head.

WHAT THE HELLLLLLL! Ancalagon yelled with a roar of terror escaping him. Quickly getting over it, he shot his wings out and glided towards the ground, before he spun around and shot a torrent of flames at the ones responsible for this. What the hell?! Whose idea was this?! Dad! I'm going to kill you! I know you had something to do with this!

Oh, it wasn't my idea, son… though I can't deny doing the deed myself. Stargazer said as he looked at Saphira, who was trying to look 'innocent'.

Saphira? Ancalagon's eyes widened in betrayal.

Sorry, dear… I just couldn't resist. They said you needed a good wake up call. She admitted sheepishly.

Ancalagon grumbled to himself, plotting his revenge, yes even against Saphira. The love of his life she may be… nobody pranks him and gets away with it. He just had to be calculating and careful about it, so as to not make it obvious.

I was surprised she had such a marvelous idea. Alma joked, causing Oromis and Eragon to snicker. And I knowyou're over there plotting and scheming, kiddo. Don't even try. It'd be a waste of your time. My senses are alway, as you'd say, dialed to eleven. There is a reason I know more than I let on since I'm the brains between my mate and I.

…I hate you all. Ancalagon muttered, but he knew it was all in good fun. Still, why did he have to be the victim? Shaking his head, he sighed as he watched his parents descend to join him while Oromis and Glaedr took Eragon and Saphira to their scheduled training spots somewhere else. I take it that's the beginning of day two of training?

Correct. Stargazer said, still looking amused at his son who glared at him. As I said yesterday, we've barely scratched the surface of the basics, and I intend to make sure you've passed that before this week is over with… so expect to not return to the treehouse and cozy up with Saphira until late evening at best.

Oh joy… Ancalagon groaned. Could this get any worse? An entire day of practically hell, compared to yesterday which only lasted to midday. What's next, Stargazer and Almandine somehow find out about the… moment between him and Saphira yesterday? So, what will we be starting with today?

From morning to the afternoon, you and I will be working on your physical training, especially in combat, as well as aerial training. Stargazer told him, sitting on his haunches. Afterward, from late afternoon to the evening… He looked at Almandine to continue.

You and I will be working on tactics, how to hide your presence from enemies, as well as how to use your mind as a weapon. She told him patiently. As well as reading body language with a keen eye to guess someone's intentions.

Stargazer nodded and looked at Ancalagon. That will be your training schedule for the first week. If you are able to pass our expectations by the end of this week, we will move on to working on your abilities and accessing the power within you, power that you should be gaining access and knowledge to after embracing the other side.

Alright. Ancalagon said and stood, looking ready.

Stargazer chuckled. We'll begin with continuing your aerial training first. I want to make sure your reflexes in the air are superb. So Almandine will be continuing to blast fire at you, to which you are to avoid, while I will manipulate the air currents against you. Once I'm certain we've worked well on your ability to move fast in the air to avoid such attacks, we'll be doing the same thing… but you'll be carrying a heavy boulder.

Ancalagon felt like groaning, but he held it back. He understood this was for his own good. If this all worked out in the end… he may be better than ever before.

Let's do this. Ancalagon said and then took off into the air. Almandine soon following but remaining at a distance, while Stargazer remained on the ground.

Ancalagon expected to hear Stargazer tell them to begin, he did so yesterday, but the black dragon had to quickly dart to the side to avoid a fireball from hitting him and he looked to see Almandine gaining on him. Realizing they were testing him again by catching him off guard, he quickly adapted and flew.

He darted to the left, then to the right, avoiding each large fireball that came shooting at him. However, Almandine switched up her tactics as she then shot a single beam of fire from her mouth, while Stargazer flapped his wings once which turned the air against Ancalagon, nearly making him fly back and be struck by the fire, but he was quick to do a barrel roll and dive, with Almandine in pursuit.

Even with the wind against him, Ancalagon adapted. He rolled, dived, and even flipped in the air to avoid his mother's attacks while his father manipulated the wind against him, which could be dangerous for creatures of the air unless they manage to work against it.

They continued like this for about two hours, as Stargazer saw that Ancalagon was learning and getting better. He did get struck a few times by Almandine's fire, but he was learning and adapting from his mistakes and making sure to not do them again. Soon, Ancalagon was moving faster than normal, avoiding Almandine's attacks with ease, and then flipped in the air so he would be behind her and pretended to go for a killing tackle with his teeth aimed at her neck.

Dead. Ancalagon announced proudly, backing away.

Almandine laughed and flicked his cheek with her tail. Well done, sweetie. Few could say they manage to do that against me. You learn quick.

I have great teachers. Ancalagon shrugged.

Oh it's not over yet. Stargazer's voice said, causing Ancalagon to look down and see his adoptive father sitting near a large boulder. We still have this to do.

Ancalagon sighed but nodded and flew down to get it while Almandine remained in the air, waiting for him to come back.

It was going to be a long day.

As Stargazer said, from morning to afternoon, Ancalagon's training consisted of working on his physical training. Once Stargazer believed Ancalagon had done enough aerial training, he called him down to begin ground combat. Afterwards, he instructed Ancalagon that his goal is to fight him so Stargazer can properly gauge his combat skills and see what needs to be corrected and what needs to be adapted on.

Ancalagon got pinned to the ground. Every time. And only in five seconds each.

Your methods are predictable. Stargazer had said after easily pinning his son to the ground for the sixth time. You need to make sure that I can't know what you're going to do before you even do it. You charge in recklessly, without a plan or any strategy. Remember this: don't just think brute force will gain you victory, don't try to muscle it. Might isn't always right, even with dragons. Our strength is to be feared, awed and respected, yes, but if all of us worked on simply relying on brute force… we'd have gone extinct a very long time ago.

From there, Ancalagon worked on improving his methods, calculating strategies and the best way to attack, to try and find a weakness in the bigger, older dragon. So he did the one thing he could only do while searching for that, he dove in and out of attacks, trying to spot the opening, or see if Stargazer would inadvertently present one.

Once the afternoon came, Stargazer called the combat training to a halt and allowed Almandine to take over for her teaching. Ancalagon was slightly panting, but was refusing to show his exhaustion. Not out of pride or anything, but because Stargazer said to never show weakening strength for his enemies will exploit it and find ways to make him exhaust himself faster.

Now, mother and son sat across from each other, while Stargazer had gone off to hunt.

Now, we will begin with training you to mask your presence. Almandine began. Like your scent, but the color of your scales are perfect to blend in with the night sky, to which your enemies would not see you coming until it is too late. But when you are hunting in, say during the day, the wind will shift and your prey will catch onto your scent through this. You have to ensure that doesn't happen.

How? Ancalagon asked with a frown.

By having your scent mix in with that of the nature around you. Almandine said and gestured around them. Say, for example, you are hunting a deer and the wind shifts so that it picks up your natural scent. It will know there's a predator nearby and bolt before you can attempt to lunge for the kill. You need to have your scent covered by the smell of the world around you. Like trees, the grass, to do so will blind your prey's senses and think it's just nature. I want you to work on that in your spare time, then come back and show me what you've learned each day of your training. Understand?

Ancalagon nodded. I do.

Good, now we move onto the next step: using your mind as a weapon. Almandine said with a fanged smile. After that, we will work on tactics, adapting methods and strategies in a battle. Especially if you want to take down your father. Now, we begin with relaxing your mind and trusting in it…

AN: And I think we'll end it there. I ain't that good at showing training stuff, no matter what you've seen in this one. That was me trying my damn hardest to make something convincing, so I hope it was okay. The next chapter will be equally parts timeskip, equally parts training, and what goes on between those moments like in the book.

Editor boi here: He's just being lazy. Him and I couldn't come up with anything decent sooooo this is what you got instead.