Holy shit. Triple upload from wolfie? Wow. Y'all must be special. And just to be clear: I am building a discord server for you guys, I hope to have it done within a week. Speaking of…
I talked wolf into uploading a triple event because he and I are going to be busy for the next week… typing future chapters. There will be a week-long… not hiatus… but a pause in this story so we can focus on the next portions:
- Leaving for the Varden
- Preparing for the Battle of the Burning Plains
- Writing out the Battle of the Burning Plains
- Aftermath of the Battle of the Burning Plains
Ending of the events in Eldest…
Entering into the Brisingrtimeline…
- Journey to Helgrind (there will be two POVs here)
- Fall of the Ra'zac
- The Return Journey
- The Wedding of Roran and Katrina
- The ascension of Orik as King of the Dwarves
- Eragon and Co.'s return to Du Weldenvarden
And whatever else happens afterward will be… different. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this triple upload from us. Wolf and I slaved for days on these three chapters alone and I hope, as his editor, you all enjoy the tearful scene that will unfold this chapter.
Until February 22nd, Bladewolf101 alongside his loyal editor and friend, Stryker, bid you all farewell.
Flashes of black and blue hues popped up here and there as two dragons raced through trees older than time itself.
Michael was chasing a particularly elusive deer through an unknown forest. When he came upon a small river with a rocky shoreline, he spotted his target. Crouching low, he nudged the small blue female dragon next to him with his nose.
Okay kiddo. You want to make sure you dive for the deer, not the tree behind it. Michael guided the little one. You are HUNTING the deer, not chasing it. You want to eat, right? The hatchling nodded vigorously. Well? The sooner you catch it, the sooner you eat! Go on kiddo, I'll be watching you. Without further prompting, the young dragon began creeping forward. The massive black-scaled dragon sent a thought to a certain crystal dragon and the wind switched directions to keep the pair's scent away from their prey before settling into a crouch.
As Michael watched, the young dragoness crawled her way over to the deer that was peacefully grazing. Completely oblivious to its imminent demise. The youngling suddenly leaped at the deer… and overshot it. The deer bolted into the forest once more as the dragoness sailed over its back and face-planted into a massive tree with a sickening THUD.
Michael rolled onto his side, laughing so hard his roar was heard for miles as the hatchling teetered over to him like a drunk.
Heee-ooowwww deeeeed ayeeeee dooooooo daaaaaaddyyyy…? The hatchling slurred before toppling over and passing out.
How'd she do? Came an ancient male voice, the familiar thundering tones of Michael's adoptive father.
Would you believe me if I told you she caught the deer this time? The black-scaled dragon asked, barely containing his mirth.
Michael could have swore he felt the ground shake slightly and a roaring draconic laugh echoing on the breeze.
SHE HIT THE TREE AGAIN?!
There was grandma Almandine, Michael's mother in everything but blood.
…Yeaah. Michael admitted, only to hear four more sets of laughter in his head.
Brother dear. I thought you were teaching your kid how to hunt deer, not eat tree bark.
Yeah, I'm trying bu-
Oh yeah. You're making some realheadway there, aren't you young one?
Michael groaned. Not you too Glaedr…
A snort was heard and her voice cut through the chaos. Dear… you aren't being a very good father figure to her if you don't actually showher how it's done. Get to it and remember you aren't allowed back until she snags herself dinner!
Five roars of laughter rang out in Michael's head as he grumbled while looking at his sleeping dragoness.
This was going to take a while…
Where's Uncle Thorn when you need him? Michael asked with a sigh to no one in particular.
Ancalagon bolted upright, panting heavily as the dream faded into nothing.
He snapped his head every which way, taking in the dark treehouse and his glittering sapphire mate cuddled into his side while facing him.
Saphira… Ancalagon thought warmly as he let his neck curl around her and his chin rested on her back.
Nothing but a dream… The black-scaled dragon thought before succumbing to sleep once more.
If only he knew… that was no mere dream.
When Ancalagon woke up again, the exhaustion from last night had faded away, though his muscles still ached. He yawned, mouth opening wide, before it snapped shut with a 'SNAP!' He looked down at the dragoness cuddled against his side and he couldn't help but just stare at her, stare at the most beautiful thing in all of creation… and she had chosen him as her mate. Her partner for life.
Memories of his and Saphira's love-making flooded back to the front of his mind and he nearly blushed. They had gone at it so much that they passed out when completely exhausted, though that was mainly Saphira's fault as she wanted him to put that 'mighty male stamina' to the test. And, being a male, he did not like to be challenged in such a way…
The sudden shifting of Saphira's breathing caught his attention and he looked to see her waking up as well. His sapphire-scaled mate yawned and stretched like a cat before she turned her head and regarded him with loving eyes.
Good morning, my mate. Saphira purred, loving just how right those words sounded now.
Morning to you, too. Ancalagon chuckled and pressed his maw against hers for a draconic kiss. Sleep well?
Very well. Saphira said before yawning again. You were amazing.
Nowhere near as amazing as you. Ancalagon growled softly in her ear, nuzzling her. His affections made her return them, and his scent drifting off his bulk made her body tingle and a familiar heat began to bloom. But… did we really go at it until we passed out?
Oh yeah. Quipped a familiar female voice while two sets of male laughter drifted into his head.
I had to carry your fat ass all the way to your bed, you shit! Came the roaring laughter from a certain male dragon that Ancalagon knew all too well.
… Fuck. The black-scaled dragon groaned, while Saphira laughed and nuzzled his neck.
LANGUAGE! Came his parent's chiding before they burst out into another round of laughter.
An image of a Stargazer and Almandine curled up in a… tree? Popped into the young mates' heads.
Wait. Tree? The heck? Ancalagon was bamboozled to say the least.
Ohhhhh this old place? You like it? Stargazer asked while looking at his and Alma's surroundings. Ancalagon sent a mental equivalent of a nod while the image disappeared. Too bad. It's ours and has been for hundreds of years. We'll show you… one day. And that day is not today.
Whatever. Ancalagon sighed and laid his head back down, with Saphira leaning against him. Footsteps caught their attention and they looked to see Eragon coming down from the bedroom.
"Morning you two." The young Rider greeted them.
Morning, little one. Saphira nuzzled her Rider. Briefly, Ancalaon's mind flashed back to the dream he had, of the female hatchling, before he shook it away and focused.
"Congratulations by the way, you two are finally official." Eragon said with a grin. "Though I assume, with the long absence from you two, you were getting started on having a family?"
At this, Saphira and Ancalagon shared a look before Saphira looked at her Rider. Not… exactly.
We've agreed to wait until Galbatorix is no longer a threat. Ancalagon said quietly. The last thing we want is to bring our children into a world at war, where a tyrant king would hunt them down to make slaves of them.
A wise decision. Almandine's voice said in their heads. I do not want any grandchildren of mine being hunted like trophies.
Nor do I. Enough hatchlings have been killed. Stargazer growled darkly before his tone softened and lightened. But anyway, Michael, Saphira, you two have the day off from training as I'm sure you'll want to rest from the events of yesterday. But tomorrow, you'll be back at it. Understood?
Yes sir. The younger couple said, and the ancient dragons withdrew from their minds.
Well, you two are getting the special treatment. Eragon joked as he began readying himself for his own lessons. The young Rider bade them farewell moments later, giving them both a small hug around the snout, and disappeared down the trapdoor.
For the next several minutes, the two dragons simply lay with each other, snuggling in tightly, enjoying the feeling of finally having their mate beside them. Despite the note's suggestion however, neither dragon made to fall back asleep. Grumbling, Ancalagon groaned over his body's unwillingness to return to slumber. Dammit. What can we do in our free time?
I can think of something. Saphira purred, leaning in to nibble his neck once more. After all, Eragon has left… and we do have the house to ourselves all morning. As her teeth reached that oh-so-sensitive spot, Ancalagon registered her words.
He gave her a deadpanned look. You're kidding. You're kidding, right?
Saphira growled a little deeper, and maneuvering her limbs under his, she rolled him onto his back and lay atop his chest, rumbling all the while. I'm completely serious, my mate. She silenced his protesting growls by licking his snout affectionately, and Ancalagon felt his instincts beginning to rise at Saphira's actions, his body responding eagerly to the attention of his mate, especially when Saphira's tail began to caress the base of his own in a slow, seductive manner while she let out lustful growls. After all, it's the mating season… And it doesn't just end in one day.
…Oh fuck it. Ancalagon sighed, not even going to argue anymore. He pressed his lipless mouth against Saphira's in a very passionate kiss that Saphira eagerly returned and hummed in pleasure at. Soon, the male found himself on his back with Saphira on top of him, never once breaking their locked mouths as Saphira caressed his body with her tail and paws, and she felt his dragonhood brush against her hind legs.
His paws traced down her flanks seemingly of their own accord, and Saphira quickly pulled herself up onto him even more, and wedged her hips down onto his, their bodies assuming an all-too-familiar position. She growled loudly when feeling him enter her, and they took a moment to get used to that feeling of being connected in such a way once more.
You're insatiable, do you know that? Ancalagon groaned as she began to move on top of him. He knew this position well from certain… stuff he looked at back home on Earth. Back when he was entering that stage in a young man's life. The fact she knew this position was surprising to him, but he wasn't going to complain. She looked quite beautiful from this position. Even after we went at it from afternoon straight to late at night and… oh God…
Just shut up. Saphira growled, her movements speeding up slightly as her talons dug into his shoulders. It's not like you're… ahh… against it.
…No. Ancalagon huffed in defeat before leaning up to lick and nibble at her neck. He then laid back down, his paws moving to her hips and guiding her movements.
They may be at this for a while…
So why is he late? Almandine asked her mate while he was laying on his back, allowing several elves who actually respected them as individuals and not some "god figures" to bathe him.
Oh I know why. I just won't tell you. Came the reply while a hum soon followed as a few elves spread his wings to start cleaning them. Careful with the wings, elves. He warned in a friendly tone. Their edges are very sharp and can cut without much effort or pressure.
"We will be careful, Stargazer-elda." A male elf replied while beginning the cleaning process, much to the dragon's immense pleasure as he let out a sigh of contentment.
Fuck. Me. You are BRIGHT. Almandine grumbled as she shielded her face with a wing so she didn't go blind… before her eyes widened at what she said. Oh no–
The elves and their patient froze and slowly turned their heads toward the now self-conscious female dragon who was very aware of how hot her face was.
Her unintentional audience looked at one another before looking at the dragoness. Stargazer blinked long and slow, several times, before cracking a smile. Later. Bath first. And the elves resumed their task as if nothing had happened. Almandine sighed and looked at the clear blue sky.
Shit.
The days leading up to the Agaetí Blödhren were the best and worst of times for Eragon and his companions. His back troubled him more than ever, battering down his health and endurance and destroying his calm of mind; he lived in constant fear of triggering an episode. Yet, in contrast, he, Saphira and Ancalagon had never been so close. The three lived as much in each other's minds as in their own, and spent every waking moment they could together. The only time they spent apart was the times that Saphira and Ancalagon's mating urges grew too strong to ignore, and the two dragons would fly away for some time of privacy, sometimes never returning until a day later.
Saphira's heat cycle lasted for an entire week, a week that Ancalagon had announced (after the heat cycle ended) the most stressing and tiring week of his life, before Saphira then got him to admit he did quite enjoy himself... and he had to tell her off from trying to coax him into mating with her again, wanting at least a day without giving into his urges and being exhausted afterwards.
Oh well, he knew what he was getting into when he fell in love with a dragoness and became her mate. He was committed to it and won't complain about anything... even if Saphira could prove to be insatiable at times.
The day after Saphira's heat cycle ended, both dragons were left exhausted from giving into their urges practically every day and spent that whole day sleeping and recovering.
A week before the Agaetí Blödhren, when the trio were about to return to their quarters from the Crags of Tel'naeír, Oromis said, "You should both think about what you can bring to the Blood-oath Celebration. Unless your creations require magic to make or to function, I suggest that you avoid using gramarye. No one will respect your work if it's the product of a spell and not of your own hands. I also suggest you each make a separate piece. That too is custom."
In the air, Eragon asked Saphira, Do you have any ideas?
Saphira hummed and looked towards Ancalagon. We may have a few ideas. She said smugly, and Eragon saw a brief image of a strangely convoluted slab of stone before Saphira closed that image away.But if you don't mind, we'd like to see if it works before we tell you.
He grinned.Won't you give me a hint?
You'll have to be patient. Ancalagon chuckled.
Back in their tree house, Eragon cataloged his skills and thought,I know more about farming than anything else, but I don't see how I can turn that to my advantage. Nor can I hope to compete with the elves with magic or match their accomplishments with the crafts I am familiar with. Their talent exceeds that of the finest artisans in the Empire.
But you possess one quality that no one else does, said Saphira.
Oh?
Your identity. Your history, deeds, and situation. Use those to shape your creation and you will produce something unique. Whatever you make, base it upon that which is most important to you. Only then will it have depth and meaning, and only then will it resonate with others.
He looked at her with surprise.I never realized that you knew so much about art.
I don't, she said.You forget I spent an afternoon watching Oromis paint his scrolls while you flew with Glaedr. Oromis discussed the topic quite a bit.
Ah, yes. I had forgotten.
Leaving the Rider to ponder these thoughts, Saphira joined Ancalagon on the balcony before they took off into the air. Normally, each individual in attendance at the Agaeti Blodhren would bring something made solely by themselves, but Ancalagon had suggested they make something together, as a symbol of their union.
Have you noticed Stargazer and Almandine have been… distant? Saphira asked her mate, causing him to look at her.
I have. He said with a sigh. Even during training, I can tell something is on their minds, and I feel I have an idea.
Saphira eyed him. You never told me what enraged Stargazer so much that day of the storm.
I love you Saphira, but I cannot tell you. That is his tale to tell, not mine. Ancalagon said softly, though he was worried for his unofficial adoptive parents after learning of their tragedy, he hoped they'd pull through. And he felt useless for not having any way to help them, though he hoped Arya would. Whatever she was planning as a gift to them for the Blood-Oath Celebration, he hoped it helped.
They soon landed on a cliff and approached a large slab of stone they found when they came here for privacy during Saphira's heat cycle. Sitting down on their haunches, Saphira looked at her mate. Shall we begin?
Ancalahon held up a claw. I'll carve the image, you bring the fire.
On the eve of the Agaetí Blödhren—which was to last three days—Eragon, Ancalagon, Saphira, and Orik accompanied Arya to the Menoa tree, where a host of elves were assembled, their black and silver hair flickering in the lamplight. Islanzadí stood upon a raised root at the base of the trunk, as tall, pale, and fair as a birch tree. Blagden roosted on the queen's left shoulder, while Maud, the werecat, lurked behind her. Glaedr was there, as well as Oromis garbed in red and black, and other elves Eragon recognized, such as Lifaen and Narí and, to his distaste, Vanir. Overhead, the stars glittered in the velvet sky.
Stargazer and Almandine were also there, and had a space beside them. They sent looks at the group and indicated they were to sit next to them. No one argued against it as they positioned themselves near the ancient dragons.
Are you both… okay? Ancalagon asked them worriedly. You guys have been strangely distant.
We're fine, little one. Almandine assured him, and furthered her reassurance with a nuzzle on the top of his head. Just… a lot on our minds right now.
Indeed. Stargazer said, his eyes straying to Arya for a moment and searching. Whatever her gift was… he hoped it would do what she said it would. Without another word, he stretched his tail out and wrapped it around Arya's waist, lifting the surprised elf and lowering her at Ancalagon's feet so she was between the ancient male and the younger male. You are one of us, elfling. Stargazer rumbled warmly.
Arya smiled, a slight redness on her cheeks. "I am honored."
No. Stargazer said while a toothy grin formed on his muzzle. You are family, Arya. No need for honor, only love and acceptance.
You might as well just accept it. Ancalagon said with a gentle nudge to the elf. He won't say otherwise.
Together they waited until the coming of midnight, when Islanzadi raised her arm and pointed it towards the moon. A softly glowing orb formed in her palm, and the elven monarch carried it to a hollow in the tree's massive trunk, where it sat, pulsating.
"It has begun," Arya whispered excitedly.
The elves divided themselves into informal camps throughout the forest and clearing that encircled the Menoa tree. Seemingly out of nowhere, they produced tables laden high with fantastic dishes, which from their unearthly appearance were as much the result of the spellweavers' handiwork as the cooks'.
Then the elves began to sing in their clear, flutelike voices. They sang many songs, yet each was but part of a larger melody that wove an enchantment over the dreamy night, heightening senses, removing inhibitions, and burnishing the revels with fey magic. Their verses concerned heroic deeds and quests by ship and horse to forgotten lands and the sorrow of lost beauty. The throbbing music enveloped Eragon, and he felt a wild abandon take hold of him, a desire to run free of his life and dance through elven glades forever more. Beside him, Saphira hummed along with the tune, her glazed eyes lidded halfway. She leaned against Ancalagon, who rumbled deeply as he nuzzled the top of her head, his tail intertwining with hers.
What transpired next, neither Ancalagon or Eragon were able to recall much. It was as if they had a fever and faded in and out of consciousness. They could remember certain incidents with vivid clarity—bright, pungent flashes filled with merriment—but it was beyond them to reconstruct the order in which they occurred. They lost track of whether it was day or night, for no matter the time, dusk seemed to pervade the forest.
Eragon remembered spinning in circles whilst holding the delicate hands of an elf-maiden…
Ancalagon remembered staring into those gorgeous sapphire-coloured eyes that he loved so much as they danced in the air before everyone's eyes.
Saphira remembered seeing through two sets of eyes, her mind merging with another as his magic flowed through them both, creating an intricate display of swirling lights and streamers around them as they danced...
On the third day of the Agaetí Blödhren, or so they later learned, Eragon delivered his verses to the elves. Taking Saphira's words to heart, Eragon had produced something that not only defined who he was, but could have been made by none other. The young Rider had written a poem about his life up until this point, telling of his struggles and deeds up to now. He spoke of his many trials, his journey both physical and spiritual, along with many other aspects.
When the last verse was read, the gathered elves looked upon the Rider with new appreciation for all that had befallen him since the discovery of Saphira's egg all that time ago. They were so impressed and intrigued that they asked him to read it once more, so that they may reflect on these new revelations further.
After Eragon finished his poem again, Ancalagon shared a nod with Saphira before he spread his wings and took off into the air much to everyone's surprise. However, he soon came back carrying a large slab of stone in his claws. It was thrice the size of a large man, but he was able to carry it easily. Landing softly and without damaging the stone, he placed it between himself and Saphira.
The glossy rock had been melted and somehow molded into intricate curves and designs, the wavy lines crossing the entirety of the slab's face. Eragon, along with many of the elves, gathered close to try and discern the patterns and designs of the stone. After a moment, some of them wore puzzled expressions, confused as to what it was they were seeing.
A gentle snort from Ancalagon had them step back as he and Saphira began their work. They touched their snouts to the surface of the rock and opened their mouths. Breathing heavily against the stone, hints of flame escaped their mouths and brushed the surface of the rock. The two dragons increased the pressure of their breaths, and soon, tell-tale flames tinged sapphire and black joined the orange as they bathed the rock. Slowly, the lines of colored flame trickled along the wavy lines and curves in the stone, and Eragon gasped as a picture was delicately revealed.
It was of a sapphire dragon and a black dragon, the two of them joined at the tail, their foreheads pressed together, forming almost the shape of a heart in their position. Saphira and Ancalagon shared a satisfied look at the silence they received, as well as the awed looks. Here, was a stone that showed just how much two souls were in love with each other. They would be each other's for all eternity and nothing would keep them apart.
Now that… is a symbol of love between a couple. Almandine said with a deeply proud hum as she licked her son's cheek. You do us proud, sweetheart.
Thank you, Mom. Ancalagon said, feeling his own pride rise at being complimented as such.
Then Glaedr brought out his offering: a slab of red oak that he had carved with the point of a single talon into a likeness of Ellesméra as seen from high above. And Oromis revealed his contribution: the completed scroll that Eragon had often watched him illustrate during their lessons. Along the top half of the scroll marched columns of glyphs—a copy of "The Lay of Vestarí the Mariner"—while along the bottom half ran a panorama of a fantastic landscape, rendered with breathtaking artistry, detail, and skill.
That reminds us… it's time for our own gift. Stargazer said as he shared a look with Almandine.
Son, please step into the clearing with us. Almandine said as she and her mate walked into the center. Our gift is rather... personal, yet we accept our audience tonight.
Ancalagon walked into the clearing and sat in the middle where his will-be parents asked him to sit. The night sky immediately darkened further to pitch black while the stars and moon shone even brighter. All light emitted from the lanterns and torches around them was snuffed out and the clearing was bathed in a dull silver glow. Stargazer and Almandine sat down, the crystal dragon behind the young male while the maroon dragoness remained in front. The two dragons began humming, spreading their wings to encircle the young black-scaled dragon, and then they began to do something no one present thought possible from dragons.
The couple began to sing.
(If you wish to know, the song is called "Anywhere" by Au5 feat. SLANDER)
Take me to another place, another time
Far away
I wanna fill your lonely heart
I wanna take you somewhere safe
And show me what you were talking about when you
Saw the walls coming down, yeah
Anywhere, anywhere with you
We'll make it up, I don't care what we do
You say the word and I'll go
You got the self-control
You say the word and I'll go
I'll go, I'll go, go with you
Anywhere, anywhere with you
Tell me when, I'll be there, there
We'll make it up, I don't care what we do
Anywhere, anywhere
Anywhere, anywhere (anywhere)
Anywhere, anywhere with you
Anywhere, anywhere
The elves were in awe alongside the dragons and their Riders. As the two dragons sang, their voices formed a melody that was unrivaled in tone, pitch and unity. Lightning forked across the sky, creating a pleasant electric symphony while flashing to the beat. Thunder boomed at the respective times, forming deep bass drops and hits. All along the edge of the clearing, animals stepped into the light and stood next to the elves, shoulder to shoulder, while they all swayed to the music.
We're night dwellers, born sinners
It'll take us higher
We're strange figures, hard hitters
It'll take us (higher)
You show me what you were talking about when you
Saw the walls coming down, yeah
We belong in it, we're lost in it
It'll take us higher
You say the word and I'll go
You got this under control
You say the word and I'll go
I'll go, I'll go (I'll go with you)
You say the word and I'll go
You got this under control
You say the word and I'll go
I'll go, I'll go, I'll go with you
Anywhere, anywhere with you
Tell me when, I'll be there, there
We'll make it up, I don't care what we do
Anywhere, anywhere
Anywhere, anywhere (anywhere)
Anywhere, anywhere with you
Anywhere, anywhere
You know I'd go anywhere
Where the grass greener, lost winters
We're night dwellers, born sinners
We're strange figures, hard hitters
You say the word and I'll go
I'll go, I'll go, I'll go with you
Go with you, go with you, go with you, go with you, go with you...
Massive columns of fire engulfed the three dragons while lightning rained down repeatedly. Saphira and Glaedr's jaws dropped while the elves cried out in surprise and shielded their eyes to prevent themselves from going blind. The wind swirled around them, howling. Clouds whipped through the clearing while thunder shook the air and ground. Lightning and fire created a dazzling display of reds, oranges, blues and purples as the ancient dragons unleashed their wild magic, forming an unbreakable bond with their chosen. Their child.
You know I'd go anywhere
Anywhere, anywhere with you
Tell me when, I'll be there, there
We'll make it up, I don't care what we do
Anywhere, anywhere
Anywhere, anywhere, anywhere
Anywhere, anywhere with you
Anywhere, anywhere
The display came crashing down and as the clouds cleared, everyone got a good look at Ancalagon being embraced by Almandine while Stargazer had wrapped his massive wings around mother and son. Both parents' snouts were pressed against the black-scaled dragon's head and tears flowed freely from their eyes.
I love you… Mom and Dad… Ancalagon whispered to his parents, burying his face in Almandine's neck.
We love you too, son. The ancient dragons replied simultaneously.
The three broke apart and Stargazer lowered his head to look directly in Michael's eyes and the young dragon realized…
His eyes… his father's eyes really were nothing but pools of galaxies and solar systems. The young dragon realized that it was indeed this enigma of a dragon standing before him that had been in his dreams. He had been nudging young Michael's dreamscapes when he had been a human to try giving him a hint of what was to come. And Michael knew then and there, Stargazer had been correct after the young dragon's outburst.
He had always been there.
Watching.
Waiting.
Wanting.
Then the crystal dragon before Ancalagon pressed his forehead against the smaller dragon's head gently and uttered five words that caused Saphira to burst into tears alongside numerous elves. Elves, who were notorious for hiding their emotions.
Yours forever. Forever yours, son.
A throat being cleared could be heard and all heads turned to regard Arya as she walked toward the family of dragons. Stargazer nodded to the she-elf and she looked at Almandine, who was glancing between her mate and the elf. Nothing but confusion was present on her face.
Star, what is…? Almandine began before her voice died out when Arya turned and walked away in the direction of Tialdari Hall.
Hushed whispers and murmurs sprang up while Glaedr, Ancalagon, Almandine and Saphira traded confused looks with each other. Stargazer gave Oromis a glance and the elf bowed his head, a small smile slowly forming on his lips. Gasps were heard from the direction Arya left in several minutes later, and all could see a large covered object hovering above the ground behind her. After walking up to the dragons in the clearing, she allowed the cloth-covered thing to slowly rest on the ground before motioning for Glaedr, Oromis, Eragon and Saphira to join the three dragons. Turning to the still confused maroon dragoness, Arya spoke.
"I know what you went through after… that night, Alma." The elf said with a wince while Almandine's breathing hitched. "I do not know the pain you went through, and I know nothing will bring her back to you. But, I made a pact with Stargazer. And now I intend to fulfill it to the best of my ability. Almandine, your mate is an incredible dragon. He is an unwaveringly loyal being to his family and the few remaining friends he has, and he cherishes them all equally. He provided the materials necessary for my creation, and I will openly admit that I had to use magic for my gift. I ho-"
She was cut off as elves began shouting, outraged by this revelation as gifts during the Blood-Oath Celebration are meant to be made without magic. Islanzadi stepped forward and silenced the angered crowds with a stomp of her foot while raising her voice.
"That is quite enough!" She hollered, and silence reigned over the elves. "I know how this celebration is supposed to remain free of magic for the gift ceremony! Keep in mind, Arya would not have used magic if she deemed it impossible and necessary." Turning to Arya, the elf queen gestured for her daughter to continue.
Nodding to her mother, Arya took a deep shuddering breath and exhaled while gripping the cloth. Her emerald eyes glittered and remained locked on Almandine as she spoke her next lines.
"May I present to you all, Stargazer and Almandine's only hatchling, who was meant to be an amethyst dragoness named Victoria as I later learned from the memories Star imparted to me, before our people wrongfully murdered her. Behold!"
With that, she tore off the cloth and there were gasps and thuds as elves fainted from what Arya uncovered.
There, surrounding the egg remnant Arya had taken from the crystal dragon, was a statue of a young purple dragoness with her tail curled around the shell. The entire piece was made from masterfully hewn amethysts and other matching gemstones. Her glittering sapphire eyes and crystal teeth shone brightly in the moonlight. The youngling was reared on her hind legs while her brilliant purple wings were spread wide, her face etched in a permanent roar. Almandine slowly backed away from the statue, shaking her head vigorously.
N-no… This-this can't be. She turned her wide, tear-filled orange eyes to her mate who dipped his head while a small smile was on his muzzle. W-why..? Star why… why would you…
You never got over that night… and neither did I until after that day where I unfortunately… exploded. Stargazer then recounted the events in their old cave and Almandine looked to Ancalagon, searching. He merely nodded, confirming the events to be true.
"There is more." Arya's voice brought their attention back to her as she guided the three dragons, who were now an official family, to rest their noses on the sculpture. "Breathe your elemental fires upon the statue and…" The elf shrugged, a smile on her face. "You'll see."
Stargazer let lightning shoot from his nostrils while Almandine and Ancalagon allowed their fire and shadow elements to bathe across the statue. As soon as the trio of elements came into contact with the figure, it seemed to be sucked into it and the result was breathtaking.
Almandine's flames seemed to form thousands of thin tendrils and lines coursing throughout the statue, almost acting like blood vessels. Stagazer's lightning flickered through where the brain would be, and danced within the wings while her eyes burned with blue-ish purple fires. Ancalagon's dark smokey shadow element enveloped the two other elements and brought them out in such a way that it seemed to magnify their glows. While this was all amazing… the dragons looked at where the dragoness's heart would be and Almandine keened, leaning heavily against Ancalagon who supported her when her legs gave out.
All three elements had formed a swirling, pulsating life-like beating heart and they could hear the thumping as the trio's unified power brought their lost family member to life.
Arya.
The elf looked up at the massive male dragon standing in front of her. His eyes shone with so many emotions, yet he kept his expression neutral. He then shocked all by bending his left leg and arching his neck, assuming a bowed position.
I, Stargazer, King of the Wild Dragons of Old, Son of the Nameless Ones in the Time before Time, hereby pronounce you, Arya, Daughter of Queen Islanzadi and King Evandar, Courier of the dragoness Saphira's egg, as Dragon Friend. You are to be welcomed and accepted into our future nesting grounds with open wings and minds without question. You will be charged with the protection of our eggs and hearts. You shall know our deepest secrets and be loved by all of us. We will know only joy whenever you choose to grace us with your presence.
A brilliant flash of blue light engulfed Arya for a heartbeat before disappearing and Eragon went slack-jawed, much to Saphira and Ancalagon's amusement.
The elf's normal clothes had been transformed into a set of armor.
Thin silver plating that formed what appeared to be scales was beneath solid modulated plate armor that was pitch black with specks of silver, mirroring twinkling stars. A massive red cloak billowed behind her and fluttered with her every movement. As she tried grabbing the material, it seemed to move out of her way on its own. A silver circlet with the pendant of a flickering purple lightning bolt at its center rested upon her brow.
The armor itself and matching blade are brightsteel and the cloak is made of a substance that allows you to move freely without hindering you… as you've already discovered. The male dragon explained while chuckling as Arya drew a pure silver sword from the scabbard on her left hip that seemed to emit a soft white glow. I hope you find our gift… acceptable, sister.
"I cannot find words to thank you, Stargazer." Arya answered in a hushed tone and when she read the name inscribed upon the blade, Silver Fang, tears sprang into her eyes. She sheathed the sword once more and faced the dragons. Almandine took cautious steps toward the elf until she picked Arya up in a paw and clutched her to her chest, directly above her heart.
Thank you, Arya. The maroon dragoness whispered, her orange tears dripping from her eyes. Thank you for bringing her back to me. If you ever wish to get away from the stresses of your duties, you have but to ask my mate or myself and we'll take you away upon our backs for a day, a night or however long you wish. You need only ask and we'll take you away. We'll show you true freedom.
Indeed we shall. The crystal dragon agreed, embracing the two females and pressing the elf between their beating hearts.
With a snort, Almandine and Stargazer separated while the female dragon gently placed Arya on the ground between her forelegs.
Stargazer's earlier words echoed in Ancalagon's head as he watched the scene unfold, tears welling in his own eyes.
You are one of us, elfling. No honor, only love and acceptance.
Afterwards, everyone's attention was brought before the Menoa Tree, with Arya telling Eragon. "Look how the werelight dims. We have but a few hours left to us before dawn arrives and we must return to the world of cold reason."
Around the tree, the host of elves gathered, their faces bright with eager anticipation. With great dignity, Islanzadí emerged from within their midst and walked along a root as wide as a pathway until it angled upward and doubled back on itself. She stood upon the gnarled shelf overlooking the slender, waiting elves. "As is our custom, and as was agreed upon at the end of The Dragon War by Queen Tarmunora, the first Eragon, and the white dragon who represented his race—he whose name cannot be uttered in this or any language—when they bound the fates of elves and dragons together, we have met to honor our blood-oath with song and dance and the fruits of our labor. Last time this celebration occurred, many long years ago, our situation was desperate indeed. It has improved somewhat since, the result of our efforts, the dwarves', and the Varden's, though Alagaësia still lies under the black shadow of the Wyrdfell and we must still live with our shame of how we have failed the dragons."
"Of the Riders of eld, only Oromis and Glaedr remain. Brom and many others entered the void this past century. However, new hope has been granted to us in the form of Eragon and Saphira, and it is only right and proper that they should be here now, as we reaffirm the oath between our races three. And with the union of Ancalagon and Saphira-" A sharp cough from Stargazer cut her off and she turned to face him. "Yes, Earthshaker?"
Oh nothing. The dragon teased before he gave his mate a wink. Although I think someone here has something she wishes to reveal at a later time.
Islanzadi just stared at the pair, gaze darting between them, before clearing her throat and continuing.
At the queen's signal, the elves cleared a wide expanse at the base of the Menoa tree. Around the perimeter, they staked a ring of lanterns mounted upon carved poles, while musicians with flutes, harps, and drums assembled along the ridge of one long root. Guided by Arya to the edge of the circle, Eragon found himself seated between her and Oromis, while Ancalagon, Saphira, Stargazer, Almandine and Glaedr crouched on either side of them like gem-studded bluffs.
To Eragon and Saphira, Oromis said, "Watch carefully, for this is of great importance to your heritage as Riders."
When all the elves were settled, two elf-maids walked to the center of the space in the host and stood with their backs to each other. They were exceedingly beautiful and identical in every respect, except for their hair: one had tresses as black as a forgotten pool, while the other's hair gleamed like burnished silver wire.
"The Caretakers, Iduna and Nëya," whispered Oromis.
From Islanzadí's shoulder, Blagden shrieked, "Wyrda!"
Moving in unison, the two elves raised their hands to the brooches at their throats, unclasped them, and allowed their white robes to fall away. Though they wore no garments, the women were clad in an iridescent tattoo of a dragon. The tattoo began with the dragon's tail wrapped around the left ankle of Iduna, continued up her leg and thigh, over her torso, and then across Nëya's back, ending with the dragon's head on Nëya's chest. Every scale on the dragon was inked a different color; the vibrant hues gave the tattoo the appearance of a rainbow.
The elf-maids twined their hands and arms together so that the dragon appeared to be a continuous whole, rippling from one body to the next without interruption. Then they each lifted a bare foot and brought it down on the packed ground with a soft thump.
And again: thump.
On the third thump, the musicians struck their drums in rhythm. A thump later, the harpists plucked the strings of their gilt instruments, and a moment after that, those elves with flutes joined the throbbing melody.
Slowly at first, but with gathering speed, Iduna and Nëya began to dance, marking time with the stamp of their feet on the dirt and undulating so that it was not they who seemed to move but the dragon upon them. Round and round they went, and the dragon flew endless circles across their skin.
Then the twins added their voices to the music, building upon the pounding beat with their fierce cries, their lyrics verses of a spell so complex that its meaning escaped Eragon. Like the rising wind that precedes a storm, the elves accompanied the incantation, singing with one tongue and one mind and one intent.
Woah…. Ancalagon breathed in awe.
Faster and faster spun Iduna and Nëya until their feet were a dusty blur and their hair fanned about them and they glistened with a film of sweat. The elf-maids accelerated to an inhuman speed and the music climaxed in a frenzy of chanted phrases. Then a flare of light ran the length of the dragon tattoo, from head to tail, and the dragon stirred. At first Eragon thought his eyes had deceived him, until the creature blinked, raised his wings, and clenched his talons.
A burst of flame erupted from the dragon's maw and he lunged forward and pulled himself free of the elves' skin, climbing into the air, where he hovered, flapping his wings. The tip of his tail remained connected to the twins below, like a glowing umbilical cord. The giant beast strained toward the black moon and loosed an untamed roar of ages past, then turned and surveyed the assembled elves.
The great beast turned its eye onto Eragon and Ancalagon, focusing on the latter first and he heard its voice in his head. There is nought that we can give you which you do not already possess, young one. You were always destined for greatness, and you will fulfill your destiny as the son of Stargazer and Almandine. The son of Storm and Fire. You will make a fine dragon, one that will be spoken of in the legends to come.
Ancalagon bowed his head. Thank you.
The spectral dragon then turned to Eragon, fixing his glowing stare on the young Rider. Bidden by some instinct, Eragon raised his right hand, his palm tingling. Our gift so you may do what you must.
The dragon bent his neck and, with his snout, touched the heart of Eragon's gedwëy ignasia. A spark jumped between them, and Eragon went rigid as incandescent heat poured through his body, consuming his insides. His vision flashed red and black, and the scar on his back burned as if branded. Fleeing to safety, he fell deep within himself, where darkness grasped him and he had not the strength to resist it.
Aaaaaaand cut! Blame me, Stryker, if I made you cry while reading the gift giving and adoption unification part. I will take 100% responsibility for any tears that were shed as I was the one who wrote it all.