Aaaaaaand we back! Not in black though… although I wear black a lot. And no I'm not emo. Ew. Onward.
Answers to past reviews:
ingwecz- Look. That was before I became his editor. If you're so hung up on chapter 9, then maybe you ought to breeze ahead to chapter 22 where I step into the light.
Yubel578- Hey bud, I read that entire essay and I… cannot answer anything. Again. It is both frustrating yet hilarious to be an author… or an active major editor for an author, because we cannot give direct answers. Otherwise we'd spoil the future of the story. Oh, and by the way… there's a little surprise in this chapter. :3
With those two reviews, let's dive in. 'Cause we put our "new" Arya into action this chapter…
Eragon was alone when he woke.
He opened his eyes to stare at the carved ceiling in the treehouse he, Daemon and Saphira shared. Outside, night still reigned and the sounds of the elves' revels drifted from the glittering city below.
Before he noticed more than that, Saphira and Ancalagon leaped into his mind, radiating concern and anxiety. An image passed to him of the two dragons standing beside Arya at the Menoa tree, then Saphira asked, How are you?
I feel… good. Better than I've felt in a long time. How long have I–
Only an hour. Ancalagon replied this time, sounding a little amused yet concerned at the same time. According to the elves, this has never happened before. You honestly should have seen their reactions when you fainted. Dad had a good chuckle when they reacted.
What happened to me?
The dragons were silent for a few seconds, and Eragon could tell they were looking at each other, trying to decide who tells him… whatever it is that has happened to him. After a few more moments of silence, Saphira was the one who spoke. Look in a mirror. Then rest and we shall rejoin you soon enough.
They left, and Eragon got to his feet and stretched, amazed by the sense of well-being that pervaded him. Going to the wash closet, he retrieved the mirror he used for shaving and brought it into the light of a nearby lantern.
Eragon froze with surprise.
It was as if the numerous physical changes that, over time, alter the appearance of a human Rider—and which Eragon had already begun to experience since bonding with Saphira—had been completed while he was unconscious. His face was now as smooth and angled as an elf's, with ears tapered like theirs and eyes slanted like theirs, and his skin was as pale as alabaster and seemed to emit a faint glow, as if with the sheen of magic. I look like a princeling. Eragon had never before applied the term to a man, least of all himself, but the only word that described him now was beautiful. Yet he was not entirely an elf. His jaw was stronger, his brow thicker, his face broader. He was fairer than any human and more rugged than any elf.
With trembling fingers, Eragon reached around the nape of his neck in search of his scar.
He felt nothing.
Eragon tore off his tunic and twisted in front of the mirror to examine his back. It was as smooth as it had been before the battle of Farthen Dûr. Tears sprang to Eragon's eyes as he slid his hand over the place where Durza had maimed him. He knew that his back would never trouble him again.
Not only was the savage blight he had elected to keep gone, but every other scar and blemish had vanished from his body, leaving him as unmarked as a newborn babe. Eragon traced a line upon his wrist where he had cut himself while sharpening Garrow's scythe. No evidence of the wound remained. The blotchy scars on the insides of his thighs, remnants from his first flight with Saphira, had also disappeared. For a moment, he missed them as a record of his life, but his regret was short-lived as he realized that the damage from every injury he had ever suffered, no matter how small, had been repaired.
I have become what I was meant to be. He thought, and took a deep breath of the intoxicating air.
He dropped the mirror on the bed and garbed himself in his finest clothes: a crimson tunic stitched with gold thread; a belt studded with white jade; warm, felted leggings; a pair of the cloth boots favored by the elves; and upon his forearms, leather vambraces the dwarves had given him.
Descending from the tree, Eragon wandered the shadows of Ellesméra and observed the elves carousing in the fever of the night. None of them recognized him, though they greeted him as one of their own and invited him to share in their saturnalias.
Eragon floated in a state of heightened awareness, his senses thrumming with the multitude of new sights, sounds, smells, and feelings that assailed him. He could see in darkness that would have blinded him before. He could touch a leaf and, by touch alone, count the individual hairs that grew upon it. He could identify the odors wafting about him as well as a wolf or a dragon. And he could hear the patter of mice in the underbrush and the noise a flake of bark makes as it falls to earth; the beating of his heart was as a drum to him.
His aimless path led him past the Menoa tree, where he saw Saphira and Ancalagon amidst the crowd of elves, but the two dragons had eyes only for each other. He suppressed a grin as Saphira delivered soft, loving nips to her mate's cheek and jaw, and the black-scaled male replied in kind with a lick down her muzzle, both dragons shivering in delight. Their sides were mashed together and their intertwined tails swished behind them happily.
He saw Arya rise from her mother's side, make her way through the gathered elves, and then, like a forest sprite, glide underneath the trees beyond, and he followed her.
Eragon tracked Arya by her delicate scent of crushed pine needles, by the feathery touch of her foot upon the ground, and by the disturbance of her wake in the air. He found her standing alone on the edge of a clearing, poised like a wild creature as she watched the constellations turn in the sky above.
As Eragon emerged in the open, Arya looked at him, and he felt as if she saw him for the first time. Her eyes widened, and she whispered, "Is that you, Eragon?"
"Aye."
"What have they done to you?"
"I know not."
He went to her, and together they wandered the dense woods, which echoed with fragments of music and voices from the festivities. Changed as he was, Eragon was acutely conscious of Arya's presence, of the whisper of her clothes over her skin, of the soft, pale exposure of her neck, and of her eyelashes, which were coated with a layer of oil that made them glisten and curl like black petals wet with rain.
They stopped on the bank of a narrow stream so clear, it was invisible in the faint light. The only thing that betrayed its presence was the throaty gurgle of water pouring over rocks. Around them, the thick pines formed a cave with their branches, hiding Eragon and Arya from the world and muffling the cool, still air. The hollow seemed ageless, as if it were removed from the world and protected by some magic against the withering breath of time.
In that secret place, Eragon felt suddenly close to Arya, and all his passion for her sprang to the fore of his mind. He was so intoxicated with the strength and vitality coursing through his veins—as well as the untamed magic that filled the forest—he ignored caution and said, "How tall the trees, how bright the stars… and how beautiful you are, O Arya Svit-kona." Under normal circumstances, he would have considered his deed the height of folly, but in that fey, madcap night, it seemed perfectly sane.
She stiffened. "Eragon…"
He ignored her warning. "Arya, I'll do anything to win your hand. I would follow you to the ends of the earth. I would build a palace for you with nothing but my bare hands. I would—"
"Will you stop pursuing me? Can you promise me that?" When he hesitated, she stepped closer and said, low and gentle, "Eragon, we both have a duty to uphold."
"Do you feel nothing for me?"
Arya remained silent on that, glancing away. She let out a low, quiet sigh before looking at him. "Eragon, we have duties to uphold. You are a Dragon Rider, I… I'm the ambassador of my people. I have a duty to the Varden and now to the dragons themselves."
Eragon looked at the ground beneath his feet as tears welled in his eyes. A hand gently pulled his chin upward to face the elf before him.
"Not now, Eragon." Arya whispered before placing a kiss on his cheek and pulling away. "Let us remain friends and tackle this war together first. If we survive, then I promise to give your proposal some serious thought. Priorities, my friend."
The elf then walked away from Eragon, her cloak billowing behind her in the breeze. She stopped at the treeline and turned her head slightly to give the young Rider a genuine smile and a playful wink. Arya crouched and jumped twenty feet upward before disappearing into the night sky as Stargazer snatched her in one of his massive paws and flew off with Eragon staring after them.
Footsteps caught his attention but he didn't look as Saphira and Ancalagon settled on either side of him. And that right there, Eragon… is how you know she shares the same feelings that you have for her. Ancalagon said strongly.
How do you know? Eragon asked, glancing at the male dragon.
She didn't flat out reject you and demand your friendship with her cease just because of the age difference between you two. Ancalagon said, then looked down at the Rider. Be patient, and give her time. We're in a land at war after all.
Eragon grinned. Didn't stop you two, though.
Our natural instincts may have had a hand in that, but we genuinely fell in love with each other. Saphira reminded him before she nuzzled her Rider. Though I am glad this did not take a turn for the worst and you were left feeling nought but pain.
We should return to the treehouse. Ancalagon said after a few moments of silence. It's been a long… day? Honestly, I can't tell how much time passed during the Blood-Oath Celebration, though I doubt I'll be forgetting any of it anytime soon.
Especially the official adoption part? Eragon asked as he climbed onto Saphira's back.
Oh yeah. Ancalagon said with a fanged smile before he took off to the air with his mate. Especially that.
Wow… this bed is so cool… Saphira blissfully thought before rolling over and yelping as she immediately lost her balance and sank under the water in the lake she had been floating in.
Seven sets of laughter broke out in her mind and once she resurfaced, the sapphire dragoness narrowed her eyes at her mate… who was rolling on the ground while clutching his midsection as he laughed. Stargazer was beneath a laughing Almandine as they roared with mirth. Eragon, Oromis and Arya were curled in fetal positions as they gasped for air while they lost it. Glaedr was… wait.
Where was that golden dra-
INCOMING! Came a bellow before a massive object slammed into Saphira from above, sending her underwater yet again.
Saphira resurfaced, gasping for air and spluttering… before being tackled by three eager dragons, sending her under yet again.
Once the sapphire dragoness came back above the surface, she glared at the four dragons that were swimming around while laughing at her expense.
Can I help you, honey? Ancalagon asked while smirking, sarcasm dripping from every word.
Saphira's eyes narrowed and she growled. Not. Funny.
What do you mean?! Almandine laughed, splashing Saphira with water. I think it was a fun prank! Don't be all pissy just because you were the target for some good fun, Saffy. It was only fair… and to be frank, only a matter of time before your mate got back at you. After all… Glaedr executed the dive bomb, Stargazer and I placed you in the lake and Michael was the brains behind the operation. She winked at her son who smirked. Taking after mom already.
Stargazer snorted in amusement. He'll never take after me, guaranteed. He has the attention span of a sparrow and that is why he will always falter in combat and will never out-fly someone. Not trying to bring the mood down, but it will end up killing him if he continues his path of not taking these lessons that you and I are teaching him seriously, Alma.
Woooooow… Ancalagon deadpanned, giving his father a glare… before realizing he did have a point. Ancalagon wasn't taking his training seriously enough. He had to do better.
He needed to do better.
COME HERE! Saphira roared as she lunged at her mate.
OH SHI-! Ancalagon couldn't get to finish that thought because he got tackled by his enraged mate.
When the young dragons resurfaced, they spotted Glaedr and Stargazer conversing on the shore while Almandine lazed about in the lake on her back. The golden dragon seemed troubled by something and a snarl curled upon his lip before Stargazer snorted and shook his head. The pair then smirked and nodded before walking into the treeline, leaving a peacefully napping Almandine behind.
Come along, younglings. Glaedr's voice drifted into their heads. Time to get started on training.
The couple sighed and exited the water and Ancalagon chuckled inwardly at his still sleeping mother. Oromis had been right on their first day meeting the old dragon and Rider.
Some things just never change.
Two huffs and thuds against the ground about a half hour later was all it took.
Saphira was grumbling that her body had never been as sore as it was now during this particularly brutal sparring session of her and Ancalagon against Stargazer himself. And the most humiliating part was not the defeats. Oh no.
That dragon was taunting them.
Saphira was keeping her composure, but as for Ancalagon… he was pissed. He kept rushing in, leaving Saphira alone as he was pinned within seconds. And the crystal dragon wasn't even short of breath. He was the definition of being cool, calm, composed and collected. Saphira watched in awe as his body contorted into a horizontal corkscrew level with the ground before slamming into her mate who went sailing through several dozen trees.
Stargazer-Ebrithil? Saphira spoke up as Ancalagon was, yet again, tossed away like a ragdoll.
Speak. Came the immediate response as he turned his head to face her.
How are you executing these maneuvers on the ground without using your wings or… or magic? The sapphire dragoness inquired. She was at a loss. Truly clueless.
Stargazer glanced back at Glaedr, who was laying down observing the match with apt attention, and shared a look with him before returning his attention to Saphira.
Ah… so you think you are ready to learn some intricate stunts, Saphira? The male asked the smaller female as he towered above her.
Ready? Absolutely not. Saphira responded, looking down at the ground… before a tail pushed her face back upward to look into the searching eyes of the ancient dragon in front of her. Although I am curious as to how it's possible… how? How is this done without killing yourself or ripping out your spine?
Stargazer smirked and hummed while the gold dragon behind him chuckled. It took me over four hundred and fifty years to master that technique, Saphira. Although… Stargazer then looked over at Ancalagon. Mind if I borrow her for a few hours, son?
Ughnnn… Ancalagon groaned before huffing. Nope. Go ahead. I need a nap anyway…
Oh don't worry young one. You'll be put up against me in a mental spar. Glaedr announced before breaking out in laughter as the young male groaned and flopped onto his side.
Stargazer chuckled before addressing the sapphire colored dragoness in front of him and flopping down. Get on my back, Saphira. At her questioning look, the crystal dragon rolled his eyes. I am NOT teaching you how to execute this stunt on your own. Not for a while… like fifty or more years. I will show you how I mastered aerial combat and flight skills by performing one of the most dangerous maneuvers to our kind. The diving corkscrew.
Oh… Was all the female said before climbing onto the dragon's back and making herself flush against his body to negate drag.
Saphira gripped the scales of the dragon beneath her as he effortlessly got to his feet and surged into the air. The air and wind screamed past her ears as Stargazer picked up speed… climbing higher and higher into the air. Thousands of feet they climbed and the crystal dragon never once faltered or flagged. His breathing remained steadfast and normal, his heart rate still beating at the same slow, steady pace. As they climbed higher, Stargazer suddenly cut into a glide twenty thousand feet up and spoke to Saphira.
Saphira. You have to put him in his place.
Saphira was startled. What?
You have to stop my son from taking the frontal approach when sparring. It is damaging your training. The dragon explained, while lights flicked on and began making sense in Saphira's mind. He's taking every fight for you. You two have to work together. Remember what I told you about power players when you ahhhh walked in on Alma and I that night?
Saphira's eyes widened as everything suddenly made sense.
Do not let him take your honor and pride from you. You are no pushover, Saphira, but I cannot interfere directly with your relationship. It is not our way. You must set him straight and ensure that you are a force to be reckoned with.
I understand. The female replied, knowing just how she would put Michael in his place.
Show time hun. Hold on and whatever you do… do NOT let go! Stargazer warned before entering a steep dive while corkscrewing through the air in a sharp nose dive. The air screamed past Saphira's ears and she felt them pop as the pressure drastically altered. Her bearings were rendered completely useless as the world tumbled around her and a sonic boom ripped through the air as her mount broke the sound barrier.
I-I… Saphira stammered as she felt her vision flickering.
Oh no you don't! Came the cry below her as everything suddenly leveled out…
And they were soaring over the sunset-lit trees of Du Weldenvarden. The greens were bathed in fiery reds and oranges while her eyes favored the deep blue hues in the darkening skies to the East.
Wow… Saphira breathed as she took in the scenery laid out before her.
Now you know why I enjoy this maneuver. Stargazer stated while humming, his passenger feeling the vibrations. It refreshes the perspective of the mind. Clears your thoughts.
Yes… yes it does. The dragoness whispered, her eyes closed as she basked in the feeling, enjoying the scenery. She really should recommend this as a spot to fly over with Ancalagon the next time they go for a romantic flight together… after she made it clear to him that she wasn't a defenseless hatchling needing protecting.
Knowing him well enough, Saphira knew he was most likely thinking he was protecting her by taking the brunt of any attacks from an opponent, but she did not like to be seen as weak in any way.
Ancalagon lifted his head off his mother's back, having been resting against her side and wanting to go for a quick nap when he felt the return of Stargazer and Saphira. Almandine was sleeping and barely stirred, though she shifted slightly.
Have fun with her. You are so in for it kiddo. Stargazer joked to his son while he gently maneuvered his sleeping mate onto his back. He even went so far as to get his head under hers as a pillow before he flew off.
Ancalagon blinked. What does he mean by that? He asked, turning only to be met with a serious gaze from Saphira. What is it?
Why do you rush ahead? Saphira asked in a serious tone, no playfulness whatsoever as she stared at him intently. Ancalagon blinked again and she stalked forward to sit in front of him. You didn't cooperate with me when we fought Stargazer. You rushed ahead and attacked all on your own which ended up with you being defeated so easily. We should be cooperating, Michael, not fighting alone.
I'm trying to protect you, Saphira. Ancalagon rolled his eyes but understood what she was saying. Isn't that what any good mate would do for the one he loves? Protect his female no matter the cost?
Saphira's lip curled into a snarl and she tackled Ancalagon to the ground, pinning him. I am NOT a damsel in distress, you incompetent male! She snapped, making him flinch. I am also a dragon IF you haven't noticed by now. I can handle myself. I appreciate your protectiveness but it ends now. I will beat it out of you… Saphira's lips turned upward into an evil smirk and Ancalagon shuddered.
That look… that look was never a good thing.
Or… I will never mate with you again. She stated seriously, causing the male to cringe inwardly. You'll want and want… but I will never give. So what will it be, Michael? Will you drop your urges or will I force you to castrate yourself until you get it through your thick head that I can defend myself unless I call for help?
Ancalagon stared up at her, gulping at that aggressive look in her eyes. He shifted slightly before he sighed. I'm sorry, Saphira. I just… Maybe I was being too overprotective. You'd think, after many months of being a dragon, I'd get used to this but since falling in love with you, officially becoming yours… I'm just compelled by this desire to keep you safe and unharmed, even though I know you can defend yourself quite well. Maybe I allowed it to get too far ahead, but I promise I won't do so anymore. We will work together more often from now on. We're a team after all.
Good boy. Saphira hummed and leaned down to nuzzle him when she paused as she felt something stir, a very familiar appendage brushing against her hind legs. She gave him a serious look. Are you serious?
Sorry, it's just… Ancalagon's tone turned sheepish as his cheeks reddened. You being aggressive is… quite attractive.
Saphira growled, but it wasn't an angry one. It was a low, seductive one as her tail caressed the underside of his own. Well, then… we are alone after all. So I'm sure our presence being missed for a couple of hours won't bother anyone.
Ancalagon's lips curled into a fanged smirk. You read my mind, love. But… To her surprise, he rolled them over so he was on top of her. I'm on top this time. After all, I should lavish my beautiful mate in the attention she deserves to make up for my incompetence.
Now you're getting it. Saphira laughed, before it drifted off into a moan as she felt him enter her. Their tails intertwined with each other, and they pressed their foreheads against each other before Ancalagon started to thrust.
The ground shook twice as two dragons slammed into the ground seconds between each other.
You two are working together, this is good. Stargazer praised as he nimbly sidestepped a tail coming down at him, grabbed it and tossed its owner toward the crystal dragon's second opponent. Saphira crashed into Ancalagon's chest, sending them tumbling to the grass beneath them.
Fuck… Ancalagon grumbled while wincing.
That hurt… Saphira groaned while shifting slightly. Never… thought… I'd be… used as a weapon… Clever bastard…
This is training. There is nothing personal involved. Stargazer snapped before roaring at the two downed dragons, making them scramble to their feet. GET OFF THE GROUND AND FIGHT! ARE YOU COWARDS? Ancalagon saw stars as a paw backhanded him, sending him staggering away. And you call yourselves dragons. PFFT! PATHETIC! The ancient dragon roared before sweeping Saphira's legs out from under her and sending her sailing through the air like a baseball with his tail. NOTHING BUT FAILURES! BAH! I WILL NO LONGER INSTRUCT YOU TWO! I'VE HAD IT! NO MORE! YOU TWO DON'T LISTEN TO ME AND YOU'RE TOO BUSY GIVING EACH OTHER DREAMY LOOKS! I AM DONE! DO NOT ASK ME FOR ASSISTANCE! I WILL NOT CODDLE ADULT DRAGONS ACTING LIKE HATCHLINGS!
Stargazer snapped his wings open and shot into the air, nothing but disappointment and annoyance rolling from his mind and echoing in the two young dragons' hearts below.
Okay, we tried it his way. Ancalagon growled, nothing but pure annoyance leaking from his tone. Yeah, the training wasn't easy, it never is for anyone, but he will not stand here and allow anyone, not even his father, to insult the honor of his mate. As for him? He didn't really care what insults he was given. He's dealt with enough of them in his time here.
But, he is right. Saphira sighed, causing Ancalagon to snap his gaze to her.
What? Ancalagon frowned and walked closer to her. You cannot say you agree with him insulting us like this! He's putting too much expectation on our shoulders! I don't care that he's older than us and has more experience, we're not like any other student he's probably taken on in the past. He needs to learn patience of his own.
That is far from the truth and I am disgusted to hear you speak of him in such ways. Glaedr stepped into the clearing, nothing but anger and disappointment present in his mind. I didn't even make the cut hundreds of years ago. He has been patient with you two. You are just too stuck up and lost in yourselves to realize it. Stargazer-Ebrithil has been nothing but patient, accepting and has tried his best to teach you in the ways you need to be taught. It is not his fault that you both cannot comprehend how much he is holding back. And he is right when he said you two are like hatchlings. I wouldn't even tolerate it. I would have cast you both out before the third week.
Spare us the lecture, Glaedr. We've already heard it be- Ancalagon began before being cut off by a tail striking the back of his head while the golden dragon snarled.
Shame on you. You want to see what I went through with Stargazer? Do you? You two have it easy. Four of my fellow flight mates lost their lives on the second day and he continued on with the courses like nothing happened. A fifth had their wings nearly ripped clean off and you know what Stargazer said? He told them to shake it off and fly themselves home. He was not only brutal, but uncompassionate with his students. If you couldn't make it, then you didn't belong there. He has been giving you two every opportunity and you never once learned from your mistakes. The same mistakes you continuously make even now. The golden dragon spread his wings and looked behind him at the two ashamed dragons. Why don't you go ask Alma what I specialized in? I passed her mental courses with flying colors. Ask her how her mate treated their students. She was just as relentless as he was, but Alma has always had a heart. Be seeing you.
And with that, he was gone.
Ancalagon and Saphira were silent, exchanging looks. Evidently, there was a lot on their minds. Ancalagon inhaled deeply then exhaled a sigh.
We must do better. Saphira suddenly said, bringing his attention to her. We need to show we are serious about our training, Michael.
We've been doing that all the time. Ancalagon argued lightly. I take it as seriously as you do. If I didn't, I doubt I would've passed the first week, not even the first day. But… dammit.
I know. Saphira sighed in agreement.
What do we do, Saffy? Ancalagon asked quietly as he laid down. We follow their instructions, we push, we strive, we show our determination. We work together, we fight together. We don't give 'lovey dovey' looks to each other in a fight. And we're still made out as failures. What can we do to succeed?
Perhaps we need a different outlook… Saphira responded while the image of a certain emerald-eyed elf in a billowing red cloak and black and white armor popped into Ancalagon's head.
Maybe we do. Ancalagon said thoughtfully, showing the image to Saphira without needing to say it.
Let us go to Tialdari Hall and speak with her. Saphira suggested, and the pair took flight and soared to the elves' capital once more.
They were going to get to the bottom of this as fast as possible and right their wrongs.
The pair of young dragons just hoped it wasn't too late.
"You two are in some deep shit." Arya stated matter-of-factly while crossing her arms and leveling the two dragons with a glare.
That's… one way to put it. Ancalagon said, surprised to hear Arya swear. Nobody ever did that in the books. They always spoke like you'd expect fantasy characters set in these times to speak.
"So you came crawling to me and begging for answers to your problems when the answers lie within yourselves?" Arya rolled her eyes while huffing in annoyance. "You two have some nerve, coming to me for the answer to your issues. Are you too stupid to figure it out or too lazy? I'm on the fence between those two options at the moment."
Insulting us is unnecessary, Arya. Saphira warned before her tone softened slightly. We are just… tired of riddles.
"There were no riddles in what he told you! Both Star and Glaedr were extremely straightforward and to the point!" Arya snapped at them, making them flinch when the sun darkened slightly then went back to its normal level. "You two are going to be the death of me, I swear. You are too blind to see what angers Star and Alma has all but detached herself from you, Michael." She glared at the black-scaled dragon, seeing tears begin welling in his eyes as he looked away. "You have really, as you say, fucked everything up with your thick-headedness and your pride. Let it go and embrace what they are trying to teach you two. And before you argue, yes. You have been doing just that. You have been refusing to let them mold you two into what you should be as dragons… and as a family. Not only that, but as survivors." Arya placed her hands on her hips and glared at Saphira who shifted nervously. "And Saphira, don't ever threaten me again or snap at me. I risked my life to bring you into this world and look at how you repay me: by goofing off and not taking this seriously. I understand you two love each other, but you need to learn to separate training and work apart from fun and sex." She gave both dragons a pointed stare. "Am I making sense yet? Did I make myself clear enough for you?"
…Yes. Ancalagon said in a blank tone, not conveying his emotions. But the look on his face showed her words had hit him hard. He gave a single nod then turned and began to leave. Saphira… we have work to do.
Arya scoffed. "Yes you do. Now quit talking and do it. Off with you two! Shoo! They're with Oromis and do not expect a warm welcome."
Ancalagon paused, glanced to the side, then gave a slight incline of his head as the form of a nod before he spread his wings and took to the sky. Once Saphira joined him, the two flew off in the direction of Oromis' hut.
As much as they were not looking forward to seeing the disappointment in their mentors' eyes, they knew they had to face them.
Arriving at Oromis's hut and landing, the two young dragons could instantly feel the glares and disappointed gazes of their mentors. Even Eragon was looking at them with disappointment. As soon as they landed, Ancalagon closed his mind, remaining a blank slate for now. He had a lot on his mind right now.
Stargazer nudged Eragon who then climbed onto his back and the two shot into the air. The crystal dragon never once even looked at Ancalagon. It was as if he was invisible.
Your training will still continue, resuming tomorrow. Whether you embrace and remember it is on you two. Almandine in a flat tone before disappearing in a red flash. That left an extremely pissed off Glaedr and a disappointed Oromis behind with the duo.
"Well?" Oromis demanded. "Care to explain yourselves?"
Ancalagon looked at him. We failed.
No shit. Glaedr muttered, his golden irises burning holes into their skulls.
"And how are you two going to fix what you've broken?" Oromis questioned, sitting down and sipping at some tea.
We improve and learn from our mistakes. Saphira said.
"Yes yes." Oromis waved off her answer. "But that still does not answer my question. I said how. Not the reason. I could care less about the reasons you two have to simply brush these life saving lessons aside like they're nothing. They aren't important. What is important is how you manage to go about undoing what you have done."
Understood. Ancalagon said, barely blinking. He glanced in the direction Stargazer left, then quietly exhaled before nodding to himself.
"I suggest that you two sleep on the question and answer it in the morning." Oromis advised, still calmly drinking his tea. "Mornings tend to yield answers to yesterday's questions more often than not."
The young dragons nodded and took off without another word. That night, they slept away from Eragon, but did not go to sleep right away. Instead, they talked on what is to come tomorrow, and what they have to do in order to learn from what they've done.
The next morning, at the usual time, Ancalagon left to go to the area chosen for his and Saphira's training, while Saphira was dropping off Eragon at Oromis' hut before she would join them. Ancalagon arrived at the field and landed, sitting before the watching Stargazer, Almandine and Glaedr who watched him with gazes as equally blank as his own.
A moment later, Saphira joined them, landing beside her mate and sitting beside Ancalagon. Her expression was equally blank as her mate's, but they showed their intent and focus on today.
You two will go through what you did yesterday. Almandine said, as Stargazer did not speak. Don't disappoint us again.
The younger dragons did not speak, only nodded. Stargazer moved, and so did the young couple. They stood across from each other, with Almandine and Glaedr watching off to the side.
Begin. Almandine said.
Instead of rushing in, Ancalagon and Saphira moved in different directions to begin circling Stargazer, who watched their movements with narrowed eyes. Ancalagon and Saphira remained dead silent, not once taking their eyes off the older, larger male dragon. They then came to a sudden stop, and made their move.
Ancalagon shot a ball of fire from his mouth at Stargazer, who blocked it with his wing. He then whirled around, having seen this before by the two and expected to see Saphira charging at him. However, he did not see her at all which made him narrow his eyes slightly. The air screamed and rumbled, causing him to look up and quickly jump to the side to avoid being struck with a diving corkscrew by Saphira, the same move he had shown her but it was sloppy and less refined that his own version, which was understandable given he was far experienced with that maneuver and she was using it for the first time.
He turned, only to be met with a tail smack by Ancalagon, who was in the air like Saphira before darting off at impressive speed. And Saphira came in, sinking her teeth into Stargazer's right leg. The older male moved to smack her off, when a tendril of darkness shot from his shadow and wrapped around his foreleg, halting his movements and leaving him open for a ramming headbutt from a diving Ancalagon.
Ancalagon and Saphira backed off and began circling Stargazer again before they charged back in towards the older male as he got to his feet. Stargazer sidestepped Ancalagon and lunged to bite his neck, but Saphira got her teeth into his wing... before howling in pain as the crystals cut into her mouth, directing his attention to her, before he was backhanded by Ancalagon, who then took to the air before Stargazer could strike him with a paw.
Knocking Saphira off, Stargazer took to the sky after his son and the two narrowed their eyes at each other before they charged. At the last second, Ancalagon looked to go underneath, causing Stargazer to maneuver in order to block. However, it turns out Ancalagon had faked that as he looked to have gone under, but at the last second he flew up and his tail collided with Stargazer's face. Then Ancalagon proceeded to start spinning like a tornado while diving for Stargazer, who narrowed his eyes in preparation, only for Saphira to catch his gaze as she zoomed past him and shot a fireball in his face at close-range, causing him to shut his eyes to avoid them being burned.
But this left him open to Ancalagon's spinning dive attack, which struck him straight in the shoulder and sent them both careening down towards the ground. Saphira zoomed after them, and then dove in from the side to tackle Stargazer. Together, Ancalagon and Saphira held Stargazer, with the latter ensuring his wings were pinned.
At the last moment, they released and Stargazer could not flap his wings out in time to stop himself before he crashed into the ground.
Stargazer grunted as he got to his feet. Finally, he broke his silence. Where did you learn that?
The diving corkscrew that you showed me the other night. Saphira answered.
The spinning dive you performed on me during one of our one-on-one spars. Ancalagon added, We want to improve upon them and any other techniques you have shown us.
Like ambush techniques. Saphira said.
And aerial combat skills. Ancalagon nodded, then tilted his head. I am curious of the one where you controlled the wind and formed a tornado against me. It would be of great benefit in battle against multiple opponents.
To make the wind bend to our will with a flap of our wings, manipulating the air current. Saphira added in agreement.
No matter the pain our bodies are out through, we want to learn. Ancalagon said in a strong tone as he stared into his adoptive father's eyes, then glanced at Almandine. We don't want to fail you.
Three quiet words filled with heartache whispered into the pair's minds from the crystal dragon and shattered any hope that they had.
You already have.
With that, Stargazer turned around and walked away, disappearing into the trees. Ancalagon was left feeling defeated and heartbroken while Saphira felt ashamed and depressed. The pair hung their heads low to the ground, lost, when Almandine cleared her throat.
Show us you want to live. The dragoness stated, glaring at the younger dragons in front of her. Show us you are worthy of our hearts and maybe then things will turn around for you. Good luck and we will see you two tomorrow.
With that, she took off after her mate, leaving the two alone. Ancalagon lowered his head and closed his eyes, feeling the sting of tears beneath his eyelids. He felt them, but did not permit them to fall. He felt so… ashamed of himself, so hopeless. Two of the four most important people in his life, next to Saphira and Eragon, and they were disappointed and angry with him.
He just felt so… lost.
A gentle nudge from Saphira broke him from his sad thoughts and he glanced at her to see her looking as depressed as he was. Wordlessly, they took off and returned to the treehouse they stayed in with Eragon, the weight of failure heavy in their hearts and the feeling that nothing they do from now on will further improve things, no matter how hard they try or even improve.
He saw Garrow lying dead, then Brom dead, and then the face of Angela the herbalist, who whispered, "Beware, Argetlam, betrayal is clear. And it will come from within your family. Beware, Shadeslayer!"
Then the crimson sky was torn apart and Eragon again beheld the two armies from his premonition in the Beor Mountains. The banks of warriors collided upon an orange and yellow field, accompanied by the harsh screams of gore-crows and the whistle of black arrows. The earth itself seemed to burn: green flames belched from scorched holes that dotted the ground, charring the mangled corpses left in the armies' wake. He heard the roar of a gigantic beast from above that rapidly app—
Eragon jolted upright in bed and scrabbled at the dwarf necklace, which burned at his throat. Using his tunic to protect his hand, he pulled the silver hammer away from his skin and then sat and waited in the dark, his heart thudding from the surprise. Above him, Ancalagon and Saphira rumbled peacefully, Eragon having slept between the two tonight. He allowed the image of the two sleeping dragons to further calm himself, and stood to splash some water on his face from the basin.
Something's wrong... Eragon thought to himself.
Too uneasy to resume the trancelike state that had replaced sleep for him, he crept from their bedroom without waking the dragons and climbed the spiral staircase to the study. There he unshuttered a white lantern and read one of Analísia's epics until sunrise in an attempt to calm himself. Unfortunately, no matter what epic poem or tale he tried to read, he could not undo the knot of tension that had gathered in his stomach. He battled with his imagination for almost a half hour, before finally admitting that something was wrong.
He jumped to his feet and ran down the stairs, waking Ancalagon and Saphira who snorted a little annoyedly upon being woken up. However, what Eragon told them erased any thought of sleep and they were wide awake now.
Retrieving his shaving mirror from the wash closet, Eragon sat between the two dragons' front paws so that they could look over his head and see what he saw.
I know you can scry, Eragon, but Nasuada may not appreciate us looking in on her like this. There could be a moment of privacy. Ancalagon warned.
I have to know if everyone is alright. Eragon argued, causing the black dragon to sigh as Eragon got to work on scrying.
Concentrating on an image of Nasuada, Eragon passed his hand over the mirror and murmured the traditional phrase, "Dream stare."
The mirror shimmered and turned white, except for nine people clustered around an invisible table. Of them, Eragon was familiar with Nasuada and the Council of Elders. But he could not identify a strange girl hooded in black who lurked behind Nasuada. This puzzled him, for a magician could only scry things that he had already seen, and Eragon was certain he had never laid eyes upon the girl before. He forgot about her, though, as he noticed that the men, and even Nasuada, were armed for battle.
Let us hear their words, suggested Saphira.
The instant Eragon made the needed alteration to the spell, Nasuada's voice emanated from the mirror: "…and confusion will destroy us. Our warriors can afford but one commander during this conflict. Decide who it is to be, Orrin, and quickly too."
Eragon heard a disembodied sigh. "As you wish, the position is yours."
"But, sir, she is untried!"
"Enough, Irwin," ordered the king. "She has more experience in war than anyone in Surda. And the Varden are the only force to have defeated one of Galbatorix's armies. If Nasuada were a Surdan general—which would be peculiar indeed, I admit—you would not hesitate to nominate her for the post. I shall be happy to deal with questions of authority if they arise afterward, for they will mean I'm still on my feet and not lying in a grave. As it is, we are so outnumbered I fear we are doomed unless Hrothgar can reach us before the end of the week."
After that the discussion turned to a shortage of bowstrings, which Eragon could glean nothing useful from, so he ended the spell. The mirror cleared, and he found himself staring at his own face.
Everyone is safe at least. He said with relief.
…We are needed. Ancalagon said after a moment of silence, feeling heat in his blood. Not like the type during mating season, no, this was the same heat he felt before the battle at Farthen Dur. The fire in his veins… the call to war. War is coming and we are needed.
Aye. Why hasn't Oromis told us about this? He must know of it. Eragon frowned.
Maybe he wanted to avoid disrupting our training. Saphira pointed out. Ancalagon was silent, not wanting to think about Stargazer and Almandine right now.
Troubled, Eragon wondered what else of import was happening in Alagaësia that he was unaware of. Roran and Garrow. With a pang of guilt, Eragon realized that it had been weeks since he last thought of his cousin and uncle, and even longer since he scryed them on the way to Ellesméra.
At Eragon's command, the mirror revealed three figures standing against a pure white background. It took Eragon a long moment to recognize the man on the right as Roran, and beside him was Garrow. They were both garbed in travel-worn clothes, a hammer was stuck under Roran's belt, a thick beard obscured his face, and he bore a haunted expression that bespoke desperation. Garrow had a sword sheathed at his hip. To the left was Jeod. The men surged up and down, accompanied by the thunderous crash of waves, which masked anything they said. After a while, Roran turned and walked along what Eragon assumed was the deck of a ship, bringing dozens of other villagers into view.
Where are they, and why is Jeod with them? demanded Eragon, bewildered.
Diverting the magic, he scryed in quick succession Teirm—shocked to see that the city's wharfs had been destroyed—Therinsford, Garrow's old farm, and then Carvahall, whereupon Eragon uttered a wounded cry along with Ancalagon and Saphira.
The village was gone.
Every building, including Horst's magnificent house, had been burned to the ground. Carvahall no longer existed except as a sooty blot beside the Anora River. The sole remaining inhabitants were four gray wolves that loped through the wreckage.
The mirror dropped from Eragon's hand and shattered across the floor. He leaned against Saphira, tears burning in his eyes as he grieved anew for his lost home. Saphira hummed deep in her chest and brushed his arm with the side of her jaw, enveloping him in a warm blanket of sympathy. Beside her, Ancalagon draped his wings over them both, wrapping his own thoughts with theirs. Take comfort, they are still alive. He muttered.
Eragon shuddered and felt a hard core of determination coalesce in his belly. We have remained sequestered from the world for far too long. It's high time we leave Ellesméra and confront our fate, whatever it may be. For now, Roran and Garrow must fend for themselves, but the Varden… the Varden we can help.
Is it time to fight, Eragon? asked Saphira, an odd note of formality in her voice.
He knew what she meant: Was it time to challenge the Empire head-on, time to kill and rampage to the limit of their considerable abilities, time to unleash every ounce of their rage until Galbatorix lay dead before them? Was it time to commit themselves to a campaign that could take decades to resolve? A growl from Ancalagon indicated his approval, and Saphira jerked her head in response. Both dragons looked to Eragon for the final word.
It is time.
Eragon packed his belongings in less than five minutes. He took the saddle Oromis had given them, strapped it onto Saphira, then slung his bags over her back and buckled them down. Beside her, Ancalagon was ready to leave. We should leave as soon as we are ready, we can waste no delays.
Eragon frowned at him. Shouldn't we tell the others of this? Oromis? Glaedr? Arya? Orik? Star-
It's best we just get to leaving, Eragon. Ancalagon cut in before he could finish. Best we don't bother them and go. They will understand… I hope.
Reluctantly, Eragon nodded. At least this way, Arya may be safe from the dangers of war but he knew eventually she'd come into it upon noticing they are gone and would come searching for them. Once he ensured everything was packed and ready, and that Zar'roc was tied to his waist, he climbed onto Saphira's saddle and held on as she and Ancalagon took off into the air, flying high enough so that they wouldn't be spotted before they flew in the direction they remembered coming to Ellesmera in, their direction this time leading to the Hadroc Desert, which they'll have to fly across to get to Surda.
However, they were barely ten minutes into flying away from the elven city and forest when the trio began to hear another set of wing beats and turned their heads around… only to see Stargazer with an annoyed Arya on his back, and Almandine with a pissed off Orik on hers.
The tension that suddenly filled the air could be cut with a knife as Stargazer raised a brow at them.
Going somewhere? He asked, looking at his adoptive son with his classic smirk on his face.
Well if that didn't break the tension…
Seeing Ancalagon wasn't going to speak, nor did he look at his adoptive parents too long, and the tension between them was almost suffocating, Eragon opted to explain everything to them. From the dream he had, to scrying Nasuada and seeing the state of things, to their decision to leave and go to the Varden.
And you decided to leave without telling anyone? Almandine asked, raising a scaly eyebrow. Both she and her mate looked at Ancalagon, instantly knowing that must've been his idea.
Never thought you'd be one to run from one fight, only to throw yourself into another. Stargazer chuckled, causing Saphira to laugh softly.
Ancalagon said nothing and just stared ahead as he flew.
I guess I was wrong, Arya. The crystal dragon spoke, causing the elf to laugh. You were correct in saying he took after my stubbornness and thick-headed nature when upset. I owe you a drink. Such a shame.
Despite himself, Ancalagon's lip slightly curled into an amused fanged smile but it was gone as quick as it appeared. He shook his head with an exhale and sped up ahead, telling Saphira and Eragon. I'll scout ahead and see anywhere suitable for landing. Best we rest for the rest of the night and continue on in the morning.
A voice suddenly gave him pause.
Hey kid. Hold up a minute.
Inhaling deeply, then exhaling, Ancalagon turned his head as Stargazer came up to fly in line with him. What? Ancalagon asked, unable to keep some annoyance and bitterness out of his tone.
Land. Now. We're doing this sooner rather than later.
Narrowing his eyes, Ancalagon scoffed and just flew on ahead, not listening and not even wanting to entertain another 'lecture'. He's already heard enough of them, of how much of a failure he was. He didn't need another. He was ripped from his thoughts as he was sent crashing to the ground hundreds of feet below.
Let it all out. Let your anger out. It's time.
Growling, Ancalagon forced himself to his feet and looked at his father as he landed in front of him and watched him with an expectant look in his eyes. Despite the building anger, Ancalagon shook his head. I'm not giving you the satisfaction of going into another 'childish' outburst, father.
The old dragon actually laughed. Satisfaction? You really think I enjoy coddling you? I enjoy TEACHING you. Seeing your eyes light up when I have you harness power. See the way your smile brightens the sunlight when Alma shows you an interesting scroll or book. Everyone needs an anger outlet and it is my responsibility as your father to not only guide you, but to let myself be an outlet for your anger. Now let it out. All of it.
His body shaking with all the anger he's kept contained the past couple of days from the training, Ancalagon could no longer keep it contained. THEN WHY AM I A FAILURE TO YOU?! I listen! I follow your instructions! I want to learn what you know in combat! What Mom knows in knowledge! And yet it's still not enough for you or her! You still call me a failure! No matter what I do! You two put too much expectation and pressure on my shoulders! And I feel hopeless when I can't live up to what you want! What else do I have to do to earn your approval, dad?! What else do I have to do to show I am worthy of being your son?! Maybe I should just fly to the capital and face Galbatorix right now! Maybe fight his dragon! Who knows, maybe being on death's doorstep again will at least earn your approval!
Stargazer looked hurt, as if his son had just driven a sword through his heart when he mentioned Galbatorix. Ancalagon took grim satisfaction in his father's pained look.. only for shame to take its place. Maybe you are right. But answer me this, son... If Saphira was dying, would you be able to let her go? I want the truth.
Ancalagon blinked at the question, and felt his anger rise again at anyone ever mentioning Saphira on death's door. But he forced his anger down. And he knew the truthful answer.
No… I couldn't. Ancalagon said quietly. I've lost too much in my life, to lose her… I would be broken and would die to join her.
That's what I thought. Stargazer whispered, no accusing tones to be found. Your mother... do not tell her this, but I don't foresee myself surviving this war. I want to know now if you would look after Alma in my stead. Could you be there for her as I am? I had a vision last night… well, more of a premonition. It disturbs me a-and I want to be prepared for the worst.
Ancalagon snapped his gaze to his adoptive father, fear gripping his heart. Despite his words, despite the tension and the strain of things between him and his adoptive parents, he didn't want to lose them. If he lost either of them, it would be like losing his birth mother all over again. He couldn't fathom the thought of losing his only father figure in his life, nor lose the female that had come to be a second mother to him.
You… You won't die, dad. Nothing seems possible to stop you. Ancalagon said, as if trying to assure himself of that fact. Everything he's seen of Stargazer… who could touch him, much less kill him?
I... I'm sure you have realized by now that nothing is impossible. Stargazer played with the grass under his paws, not looking at his son. When my time comes... and I sense it will be rather soon... I need you to promise me something, Michael.
…Anything. Ancalagon said after a moment of silence.
Do not dwell on the past. Stargazer looked into his son's orange eyes with his own orbs swirling with galaxies. Move on from me. Keep... keep my Alma on the path forward and do not become stuck on my loss. Stay strong and know that I love you and her and that I died defending what meant most to me. My family.
I can't… I can't lose you too, dad. Michael said quietly, his voice shaky.
Promise me you will move on and help Almandine do the same. A gentle nudge from his father sent Ancalagon's welling tears dripping to the ground.
… I promise. Ancalagon said with a sob before he hugged his father, feeling ashamed of the anger he kept building, aimed at his adoptive parents who tried to teach him, even though the training had its rocky moments. He understood they were just trying to help him.
After Ancalagon's tears dried, both father and son flew off to find their companions' campsite.
B.W.- Damn… isn't that a tear jerking moment?
S.S.- Mmm... fish.
B.W.- *Stares before sighing and shaking his head* You know how to ruin the moment, don't you?
*A salmon gets thrown at your face*
This is the author, Bladewolf101, speaking to you readers. Some of you may be confused with the sudden mood switch with Stargazer and Almandine being disappointed in Ancalagon but… we have a plan! Don't worry. *Looks at Stryker* Right?
Stryker- *looks down at you and spits a fish out of my mouth that lands on your head and flops around* Fish!
B.W.- *Looks back at readers* Be sure to review, favorite and follow this story. I've got a fish infestation to clear up… followed by somehow planning on how to strip a dragon of his scales.
*a crystal tail strikes you and sends you into the river*
S.S.- Asshole. Stay there where you belong: at the bottom of the food chain. Bastard.
B.W.- Also, people, check out my new story replacing Rise of a Dragon, The Descendant of Revan: The Force of Alagaësia. For all you big fans and readers of this story... please try and give that one a chance.