Well well well. After a little squabble, bonding and… a sexually traumatic experience… cough We are now in the elven capital. I know, I know. Shut it happy meals. Gilderien is going to become a bit more than a figurehead down the line. As Wolf's editor, I hope I'm doing well with this story of his. I really do. Let meknow how I'm doing in the reviews, alright? Can y'all do that for me? Leave some "Editor Boi" reviews on the work I've done so far on Wolfie's story.
Review time.
Yubel578: Ayeeee what's up gamer. As for your question on chapter 30… no. I will not be. I specialize in the Inheritance Cycleand the Heroes of Olympusseries. Been reading Rick Riordan since I was in third grade… I also read Eragonand Eldestwhen I was in fourth grade. And I really wish I could answer your predictions with clear answers… but I gotta remain cryptic. Here's your hint: You're not quite there, but you're on the right path.
old666: Thanks. Had to let them feels out y'know?
The Lord Shaxx (first review): Why thank you.
The Lord Shaxx (second review): Uhhhh no comment.
Axelmos2356: The fuck are you smoking dude? Get your head outta your ass and actually THINK before opening your mouth. K? Good.
Jesus christ…
With the reviews outta the way, let's dive into chapter 32, shall we?
Arya… is royalty? Eragon asked with disbelief as he stared at the mother and daughter, the foreigner holding her daughter close.
Technically, the term is princess but… yeah, seems so. Ancalagon said, trying to sound just as surprised as Eragon was, given he already knew about this through the books.
But why didn't she tell us? Eragon argued.
Perhaps it would have placed her in greater danger, to reveal she is the daughter of the Queen. Saphira pointed out.
"Islanzadí Dröttning," said Arya formally.
The queen withdrew as if she had been stung and then repeated in the ancient language, "O my daughter, I have wronged you." She covered her face. "Ever since you disappeared, I've barely slept or eaten. I was haunted by your fate, and feared that I would never see you again. Banning you from my presence was the greatest mistake I have ever made…. Can you forgive me?"
The gathered elves stirred with amazement.
Arya's response was long in coming, but at last she said, "For seventy years, I have lived and loved, fought and killed without ever speaking to you, my mother. Our lives are long, but even so, that is no small span."
Islanzadí drew herself upright, lifting her chin. A tremor ran her length. "I cannot undo the past, Arya, no matter how much I might desire to."
"And I cannot forget what I endured."
"Nor should you." Islanzadí clasped her daughter's hands. "Arya, I love you. You are my only family. Go if you must, but unless you wish to renounce me, I would be reconciled with you."
For a terrible moment, it seemed as if Arya would not answer, or worse, would reject the offer. Everyone watched with bated breath, save for Stargazer and Almandine who were staring blankly at the scene. Ancalagon already knew what happened… but he's seen changes to the story so far and didn't know if fate would throw another curveball by having Arya reject her mother's offer.
Arya glanced at their audience. Then she lowered her eyes and said, "No, Mother. I could not leave." Islanzadí smiled uncertainly and embraced her daughter again. This time Arya returned the gesture, and smiles broke out among the assembled elves.
The white raven hopped on his stand, cackling, "And on the door was graven evermore, what now became the family lore, Let us never do but to adore!"
"Hush, Blagden," said Islanzadí to the raven. "Keep your doggerel to yourself." She turned to her guests, looking at Eragon and Saphira first. "You must excuse me for being discourteous and ignoring you, our most important guests."
Eragon touched his lips and then twisted his right hand over his sternum, as Arya had taught him. "Islanzadí Dröttning. Atra esterní ono thelduin." He had no doubt that he was supposed to speak first.
Islanzadí's dark eyes widened. "Atra du evarínya ono varda."
"Un atra mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr," replied Eragon, completing the ritual. He could tell that the elves were caught off guard by his knowledge of their customs. In his mind, he listened as Saphira repeated his greeting to the queen.
When she finished, Islanzadí asked, "Dragon, what is your name?"
Saphira.
A flash of recognition appeared in the queen's expression, but she made no comment on it. "Welcome to Ellesméra, Saphira. And yours, Rider?"
"Eragon Shadeslayer, Your Majesty." This time an audible stir rippled among the elves seated behind them; even Islanzadí appeared startled.
"You carry a powerful name," she said softly, "one that we rarely bestow upon our children…. Welcome to Ellesméra, Eragon Shadeslayer. We have waited a long time for you." She moved on to Orik, greeted him, then her eyes landed on the three other dragons in the room, and they widened when she saw Stargazer and Almandine. "Earthshaker. Lady Wildfire."
Ancalagon looked at them, raising his scaly brows at the titles the Queen bestowed on them. Stargazer looked at him and shook his head, telling him not to ask. Ancalagon just shrugged and remained silent, until Islanzadi looked at him, and her eyes widened with fear as she stepped back.
"Shruikan!" She shouted, and her guards were quick to grip their weapons defensively. Ancalagon blinked before rolling his eyes. How many times will he be compared to that dragon? However, his attention shifted to the tense elves, especially those pointing their weapons at him.
"Mother no! He is not Shruikan! His name is Ancalagon-" Arya started, but Islanzadi gasped as soon as she heard the name be spoken.
"Ancalagon… as in Ancalagon the Black? The Destroyer of Gil'ead? The Dragon of Death and Destruction? The Devourer of innocents?!"
ENOUGH! Came the combined roars of both Stargazer and Almandine.
And then the forest exploded.
Several people were thrown back, with Ancalagon quickly digging his claws into the ground and catching Arya and Orik with his chest while Saphira covered Eragon protectively. Ancalagon snapped his gaze to his adoptive parents, and his eyes widened to the size of dinner plates when he saw Almandine surrounded by a firestorm that circled her, while Stargazer had a hurricane swirling around him.
Holy shit… He couldn't help but think. It's like watching two gods snap their fingers and do… well… this! And these two are my adoptive parents?! Damn…
The destruction caused by the power of the two ancient dragons had rendered the forest, or at least the area of the forest they were in, practically non-existent. The leaves were burned to ashes, the tree trunks already reduced to cinders and the ground was scorched and blackened. With the hurricane from Stargazer, it was blowing the fires onto other trees and parts of the area, causing it to rapidly spread. Lightning flashed and thunder boomed overhead, shaking the ground while the winds howled and screamed in people's ears. Rain poured down in relentless sheets as the elves in a twenty mile radius were pummeled by wind, hail, rain and there were even funnel clouds spinning off here and there at random.
And in the center of it all, Stargazer and Almandine had enraged expressions on their faces that could make a Shade, hell probably Galbatorix himself, run away while screaming in fear. The duo radiated and glowed with pure, unrestrained raw power and anger.
That. Is. Enough! Almandine snarled with a savage growl, her burning orange eyes locked on the elven Queen. While I hold no ill will towards your kind, little Queen, I will not tolerate anyone… and I mean anyone insulting my baby boy again.
Ancalagon was too shocked… and in awe, to be embarrassed at being called her baby boy.
He is already feeling enough guilt from what he did, he doesn't need these constant, pathetic reminders! Almandine narrowed her eyes. And another thing, never, ever compare him to that pathetic excuse for a dragon that was enslaved by the King! Those two only share one similarity and that is their scale color. NOTHINGelse is similar between them so don't you DARE compare him to that worthless, sad excuse of a dragon.
My mate is well spoken, Islanzadi. Stargazer said, stepping forward and the Queen took a step back in fear. For too long I've watched your kind slink back into the forests, hiding from Galbatorix rather than making a true effort to fight in this war to free the land from that bastard. And to think my kind was once at war with yours so very, very long ago. I should know… I was there from the very beginning of that war. I could smell the stench of fear on the elves as I slaughtered your kin then, and I can smell it even now. We will make this perfectly clear. His next words were for all elves around and further out. Hear this! Any elf who compares my son to Shruikan, or insults him with ridiculous titles such as 'Destroyer of Gil'ead' or 'Devourer of the Innocent" again… I will wipe this pathetic forest off the face of Alagaesia! IF you doubt me and my abilities, then I will gleefully tear into your forest right now.
And I will ensure the elves are practically extinct… just as they nearly were near the end of the Elven-Dragon war. Almandine added to her mate's message. Once they were certain their words were well received along with their threat, they reigned in their power. The firestorm and the hurricane disappeared, and the two ancient dragons just stood there.
Woah… Ancalagon muttered as he lowered Arya and Orik to the floor. He looked around. I think you two went a little overboard on this one... but damn was it awesome to witness.
Why thank you, son.Almandine winked at him. We do try.
I aim to please. Wait. No I don't. I just piss people off. Stargazer smirked.
Ancalagon snorted in amusement, then looked at the stupefied, shocked and fearful Queen. May we continue? I do apologize about the forest, um… it can be repaired, right? He looked at his adoptive parents with a pointed look. Right?
Nope. This goes on their tab, not ours. Almandine chuckled. They got themselves into this mess, now they can clean it up.
Ancalagon looked around, then leaned close to them. You know they won't understand modern Earth lingo and words, do you guys have to use them so freely? Don't we dragons use words practically right out of a Shakespeare play? Or speak wisely and all-knowingly?
You been smoking something kid? Stargazer laughed. Didn't think we had that stuff here. Hmmm…
Ancalagon sighed, but just accepted it and moved on. His adoptive parents were weird… but he wouldn't give them up for anything in the world.
How sweet… A voice, one he did not expect said in his head… it was his own voice.
What the…? Who's that? Ancalagon asked but the voice did not respond. But he had an inkling… that it belonged to his darker aspect.
So, after that… intimidating and downright terrifying display of power by Stargazer and Almandine, which put the elves in their place and told them not to be like the rest of the land in their remarks towards Ancalagon, Islanzadi apologized for comparing Ancalagon to Shruikan, and also using the names people have given him just from the rumors that spread after Gil'ead's destruction.
Ancalagon really hoped that, from Saphira and Eragon's description of the event, he did not control lightning, command the shadows… and certainly did not actually speak the Dovahzul from Skyrim. That was just impossible.
Anyway, after all that, the meeting with the Queen continued as it did in the book. With Eragon giving her Nasuada's scroll. Afterwards, she asked Arya to recount her own tale of her capture and what had befallen her since then.
Stories told, the queen then ushered her guests out of the hall and to the fields where the rest of the elves had gathered. She addressed them all in their native tongue and told them to prepare a feast for the Rider and his dragon. Great tables were set up and throngs of elves gathered around, bringing plates brimming with fruits, pies and other dishes.
Scores of elves approached Eragon who wished to meet him and – more importantly, he sensed – Saphira and Ancalagon. Stargazer and Almandine were left alone, probably out of fear from their display, and the ancient dragons made it clear they did not want to be disturbed with the elves' worship to their kind.
The shock of a free, male dragon was certainly something that wouldn't go away anytime soon, but the elves clearly had hope for the dragon race judging from the way they watched Saphira and Ancalagon interact with each other through nuzzling and licking.
The celebration wore on for quite some time, before the queen stood and addressed the crowd. She beckoned Eragon, Ancalagon and Saphira to accompany her. As they got up, Ancalagon looked over at Stargazer and Almandine but they waved him off.
Go. We will meet later. Almandine assured him. Ancalagon nodded and followed his companions and the Queen, who told them that she would show them where they would be staying during their time in Ellesmera.
Islanzadi led them to a base of a tree whose trunk was ridged by a delicate staircase leading up to a series of globular rooms suspended in the tree's crown by a spray of branches. Lifting an elegant hand, Islanzadi pointed to the large house. "This is where the leader of the Rider and his dragon would stay while in Ellesmera. I give it to you now, Eragon, as it is your inheritance." Before Eragon could thank her, the queen swept past and departed with Arya, who held his gaze for a long moment before vanishing deeper into the city.
Well… we sure had an interesting welcome. Ancalagon commented, his wing draped across Saphira's back.
Eragon looked at him and raised an eyebrow. You call what happened back there an 'interesting welcome'?
What can I say? I have overprotective, overpowered, unofficial adoptive parents. Ancalagon rolled his eyes before he sighed. So, shall we see our new home while we're here?
Yes. Saphira said and flew off to circle the treehouse with Ancalagon joining her. Once Eragon made his way to the top, the dragons joined him in examining their home.
From the central, circular entranceway, three doors led to the remainder of the first level. One doorway led to a large dining room, and another to a strange closet with an empty hollow that left them puzzled as to its use. The third led to a bedroom overlooking, and open to, the wide expanse of Du Weldenvarden. Entering the bedroom, Eragon removed his outer clothing and examined the room. The outer wall had a teardrop shaped gap large enough for a dragon to enter from the balcony outside. Inside, a bed against the wall lay situated so that the occupant could watch the sky and moon whilst laying on his back. A huge, low-rimmed bowl dominated the center of the floor and was lined with soft blankets where a dragon – or two – could sleep comfortably.
Saphira approached the dais, sniffing it curiously before she laid down and curled up. She looked at Ancalagon meaningfully and he chuckled as he came over to join her, curling around her and draping his wing over her once more.
Hmm, this is comfortable. Saphira hummed as she nuzzled into her mate-to-be's side.
The bed or me? Ancalagon chuckled.
Both.
Eragon laughed, then came and joined him against the scaled flank. The trio talked for a time, discussing what had happened today, and what tomorrow would bring, before all three yawned in unison. Saphira dropped a wing over her Rider, and together the friends slept long and deep in the city of the elves.
At dawn, the trio woke up well rested and Saphira eagerly jumped through the gap in the wall to stretch her wings in a morning flight, roaring with joy. Ancalagon soon joined her and the two circled each other in the air. Eragon found that the elves had brought him fresh clothes, as well as food though it was fruit for the dragons, with a note of apology for the dragons. However, Ancalagon and Saphira proceeded to take their fill.
When Eragon got dressed in the clothes the elves sent to him, Orik arrived and greeted them before asking them to accompany him. Stargazer, Almandine, the queen, Arya and several others were waiting for them at the base of the tree. While the two of them descended down the stairs of the tree, Ancalagon and Saphira glided down. Islanzadi greeted them, as Ancalagon nuzzled his adoptive parents as a greeting, and they responded in kind, before she beckoned them to follow her.
Her winding course took the group to the edge of Ellesméra, where the buildings were few and the paths were faint from disuse. At the base of a wooded knoll, Islanzadí stopped and said in a terrible voice, "Before we go any farther, all of you must swear in the ancient language that you will never speak to outsiders of what you are about to see, not without permission from me, my daughter, or whoever may succeed us to the throne."
"Why should I gag myself?" demanded Orik.
Why indeed? asked Saphira. Do you not trust us?
"It is not a matter of trust, but of safety. We must protect this knowledge at all costs—it's our greatest advantage over Galbatorix—and if you are bound by the ancient language, you will never willingly reveal our secret. You came to supervise Eragon's training, Orik-vodhr. Unless you give me your word, you may as well return to Farthen Dûr."
At last Orik said, "I believe that you mean no harm to dwarves or to the Varden, else I would never agree. And I hold you to the honor of your hall and clan that this isn't a ploy to deceive us. Tell me what to say."
While the queen tutored Orik in the correct pronunciation of the desired phrase, Eragon asked his draconic companions, Should I do it?
Do we really have a choice in this matter? Ancalagon asked with a sigh before glancing at Stargazer and Almandine who were unnaturally silent. Should we?
Might as well see what it is the queen is hiding. Stargazer said with a sigh, sounding reluctant. I can smell something… something that I recognize but… He shook his head. Just do what she says, the sooner it's done, the sooner it's over. But we won't.
Privately, Ancalagon spoke to them, keeping Eragon and Saphira out. You do know it's Glaedr and Oromis that she's talking about.
We know. They said together.
When Orik finished, Islanzadí looked expectantly at Eragon. He hesitated, then delivered the oath, as did Saphira and Ancalagon. Stargazer and Almandine simply remained silent. Only narrowing their eyes when the queen looked at them.. "Thank you," said Islanzadí. "Now we may proceed."
At the top of the knoll, the trees were replaced by a bed of red clover that ran several yards to the edge of a stone cliff. The cliff extended a league in either direction and dropped a thousand feet to the forest below, which pooled outward until it merged with the sky. It felt as if they stood on the edge of the world, staring across an endless expanse of forest.
I know this place, realized Eragon, remembering his vision of Togira Ikonoka.
THUD.
The air shivered from the strength of the concussion.
THUD.
Another dull blow made Eragon's teeth chatter.
THUD.
He jammed his fingers in his ears, trying to protect them from the painful spikes in pressure. The elves stood motionless.
THUD.
The clover bent under a sudden gust of wind.
THUD.
From below the edge of the cliff rose a huge gold dragon with a Rider on its back.
The only sound louder than the concussive beats of the massive dragon's wings were the echoes of sheer shock clanging through the minds of Eragon, Saphira and Ancalagon. The gold dragon was huge; at least several times larger than either Saphira or Ancalagon, easily several hundred years old. The Rider upon its back was garbed in robe of sharp white, contrasting against the sheer brilliance of the dragon's golden hide. As the dragon turned to land, they glimpsed a grievous wound marring the majesty of the great creature; its left foreleg had been severed by a horrible blow. Eragon couldn't help the moisture that welled up in his eyes.
The Rider nimbly descended his partner's back as the dragon settled to the ground and came to stand before the dumbstruck trio. The elf had silver hair the color of starlight, yet the only evidence of his great age was the deep wisdom one could see in his eyes.
"The Mourning Sage..." Eragon whispered.
As he stopped before the trio, Eragon suddenly remembered his manners and hurried to greet the elven Rider in the proper way. As the youth bent at the knees to show his respect, the Rider smiled and lifted Eragon back upright. "Oromis is my proper name, Eragon Shadeslayer."
"You knew," whispered Islanzadí with a hurt expression that quickly transformed into a storm of rage. "You knew of Eragon's existence and yet you did not tell me? Why have you betrayed me, Shur'tugal?"
Oromis released Eragon from his gaze and transferred it onto the queen. "I kept my peace because it was uncertain if Eragon or Arya would live long enough to come here; I had no wish to give you a fragile hope that might have been torn away at any moment."
Islanzadí spun about, her cape of swan feathers billowing like wings. "You had no right to withhold such information from me! I could have sent warriors to protect Arya, Eragon, and Saphira in Farthen Dûr and to escort them safely here."
Oromis smiled sadly. "I hid nothing from you, Islanzadí, but what you had already chosen not to see. If you had scryed the land, as is your duty, you would have discerned the source of the chaos that has swept Alagaësia and learned the truth of Arya and Eragon. That you might forget the Varden and the dwarves in your grief is understandable, but Brom? Vinr Älfakyn? The last of the Elf Friends? You have been blind to the world, Islanzadí, and lax upon your throne. I could not risk driving you further away by subjecting you to another loss."
Islanzadí's anger drained away, leaving her face pale and her shoulders slumped. "I am diminished," she whispered.
A cloud of hot, moist air pressed against Eragon as the gold dragon bent to examine him with eyes that glittered and sparked. We are well met, Eragon Shadeslayer. I am Glaedr. His voice—for it was unmistakably male—rumbled and shook through Eragon's mind, like the growl of a mountain avalanche.
All Eragon could do was touch his lips and say, "I am honored."
Then Glaedr brought his attention to bear on Saphira. She remained perfectly still, her neck arched stiffly as Glaedr sniffed her cheek and along the line of her wing. Eragon saw Ancalagon was stiff, and he was so sure he saw Ancalagon's eyes narrow at the golden dragon. You smell of humans, said Glaedr, and all you know of your own race is what your instincts have taught you, but you have the heart of a true dragon. However, there is... another smell. He turned his gaze to Ancalagon and chuckled. I see. He turned his head and regarded the two dragons who were nearly triple his size. Stargazer Konungr, Lady Almandine. It has been some time.
That it has, Glaedr. Almandine said with a pleasant tone. How's your wound?
Pains me as always. Came the reply with a sigh.
I still remember when you tried courting Alma. Stargazer chuckled while Islanzadi and Ancalagon both raised an eyebrow. Glaedr seemed to shrink away slightly, embarrassment rolling from him in waves and Oromis cracked a smile. I did swear I would never let you live it down, Glaedr. Whether you like it or not, I'm bringing it up because it was rather hilarious to watch you get laid out flat by her in mere seconds before I put your head through a mountainside. Teamwork always made the dream work for Alma and I.
Glaedr slightly growled, but looked ashamed. I was young. We make mistakes in our youth. He glanced at Ancalagon and hummed. I can smell multiple scents on this one. Saphira's, as well as the two of you. May I ask why?
He is Saphira's mate-to-be when the season comes in a few weeks, and is our, still unofficial, adoptive son. Almandine explained.
Glaedr's look softened. I see. He makes a fine young dragon.
During this silent exchange, Orik presented himself to Oromis on behalf of his king. He asked why the old Rider had not shown himself before now, and Oromis revealed that not only was Glaedr injured, but he as well. His infirmity prevented him from using the most basic of magic, and could prove fatal in battle. At this, Stargazer spoke up.
I could... dispel the limitations set on you, young Oromis. But be warned... it will not be easy or painless... You may very well lose your sanity if you do it incorrectly and fight me as I cure you. It also entails everything about you. This includes past, present and possible future you. Who you are, who you were and who you might be are also in jeopardy. It is dangerous, but when I would be done, everything about you would be what you two-leggeds consider "perfect" and I will pass out for half a day. You would know no limitations aside from your body's natural limits.
Everyone's eyes widened at Stargazer's words and Oromis even looked stunned at the offer. He glanced at his wound, debating it, then looked at Glaedr as the two silently conversed while everyone waited.
Finally, Oromis looked at the crystal dragon. "May I think on this?"
Of course. Stargazer nodded.
After a collection of solemn looks from the gathered crowd, Oromis placed his hands on Eragon's shoulders. "Islanzadi Drottning, by your leave?"
Glaedr crouched low to the ground, and Oromis nimbly climbed up his leg and into the saddle on his back. "Come, Eragon, Saphira, Ancalagon. There is much to talk about." The gold dragon leaped off the cliff and circled overhead, rising on an updraft.
Ancalagon glanced at Saphira. Are you okay? He asked with concern, having been worried when Glaedr leaned close to her to sniff her.
Saphira nudged him but also nipped him affectionately. Don't fear, you're the only male I want to be bound to for my entire life. And I'm sure Glaedr understands that he is too old and big to be mated to me. My heart is set on you, Michael, never forget that.
I won't. Ancalagon said, and the two shared a kiss before Saphira allowed Eragon to get onto her back, then the dragons, including Stargazer and Almandine, took off after Glaedr and Oromis.
As they flew, Stargazer looked at Ancalagon. You best prepare yourself for what's to come after today. He said seriously.
Why? The young male looked at him.
Your training is about to begin, and I want to make sure you are in perfect balance with yourself as I told you before… and I want it done before the mating season comes. Stargazer said, shooting him a stern look. Alma told me of the last nightmare you had when your darker half tormented you again. It's time you dealt with that and conquered it, once and for all.
Ancalagon remained silent, looking away as the older male's words weighed heavily on his mind.
The group of dragons flew northward for a time, before coming in to land near a hut that grew between several trees at the base of the giant cliff. Oromis dismounted his golden partner and welcomed them to his home. In a short moment, he procured two stools and flagons of cold, clear water for him and his guests. Eragon admired the surroundings while he nervously awaited the elf to speak. Saphira waited patiently, sharing a look with Ancalagon.
The gap in their conversation stretched longer and longer. Ten minutes passed… half an hour… then an hour. It reached the point where Eragon began to measure the elapsed time by the sun's progress. At first his mind buzzed with questions and thoughts, but those eventually subsided into calm acceptance. He enjoyed just observing the day.
Only then did Oromis say, "You have learned the value of patience well. That is good."
A loud, rumbling snore came from the curled up form of Stargazer.
You have got to be kidding me. Ancalagon shook his head in disbelief. I hate him. He muttered to his adoptive mother.
No you don't. Almandine licked his cheek then smacked her mate with her tail, causing him to flinch slightly and groan. Wake up, you lazy grouch!
Sorry... The large dragon yawned, his massive white teeth flashing. I wasn't the one keeping me awake all night to satisfy someone's lust.
Ugh, too much information, dad.Ancalagon muttered with a red hue on his cheeks, one shared with Eragon and Saphira while Oromis and Glaedr chuckled in amusement. C-Can we move on before I decide to claw my eyes out and destroy my hearing so I don't have to put up with him and his sly remarks?
Oromis chuckled again. "Of course."
I am aware of the look you sent me, young one. Glaedr began with a rumble. When I sniffed Saphira. Rest assured, I have no desire in that kind of manner. She is yours, as you will be hers.
Another snore shook the ground and all eyes turned to the once more sleeping dragon.
Unbelievable. Ancalagon huffed quietly, looking like he was trying to not laugh… and also not give in to the desire to tackle his adoptive father. Seriously, can't he be more attentive?
No. Came the witty response. I'm not the one being potty trained. You are!
That's so cringy. Please stop. Ancalagon rolled his eyes then looked at Almandine. Can't you get him to stop? He makes one more… and I'm going to hurt him. He's so embarrassing! I can see why you two like each other.
Accurate. Almandine sighed, shaking her head. Just try and ignore your father, dear. He's like this when he doesn't get too much sleep.
And I wonder who kept me up… Came the sarcastic, half asleep grumble.
Guilty. Almandine smirked and nuzzled her mate's now sleeping form.
"I see some things haven't changed." Oromis chuckled before turning his attention back to Eragon and Saphira. "Now, we shall see your skills for ourselves."
After Eragon did a series of complicated stretches, for Oromis to ascertain his abilities, Saphira twisted and maneuvered her lithe body in a series of acrobatics that Eragon had never seen her do before. Only a few things escaped her ability.
"Impressive." Oromis said once she landed, then looked at Ancalagon. "And you, young one?"
With respect, Oromis, my son is still learning and we will ensure his skill is greater than what it is right now. Almandine said, seeing as her mate was still snoring away. We are his mentors, as we are his adoptive parents.
If I remember Star's flight classes correctly... Glaedr visibly shuddered. That caused Ancalagon's eyes to widen. Why was he saying it like that? Surely, it couldn't have been THAT bad… right?
Almandine snorted. Oh please, the combat classes he taught were far worse. And our son will go through the same as our students did before him.
Ancalagon snapped his gaze to her, then he looked at Eragon and Saphira. Help. Me. He whispered to them. Eragon just shrugged, while Saphira winked.
If we have to be put through training, then so do you. It's only fair. Saphira countered with a tone that was equally playful and serious.
Time passed as they talked, with Oromis and Glaedr setting out a routine for Eragon and Saphira to let them know what they'll be going through under their tutelage. Ancalagon inquired to Almandine of the training he will go through, aside from confronting his other half, but his mother told him they'll speak of that early tomorrow morning… when Stargazer was more awake and wasn't at risk of dozing off every few minutes.
Hey Gladdy? Stargazer tiredly asked, causing conversations to grind to a halt.
Glaedr raised a brow at the nickname, but replied. Yes?
How about a friendly spar between you and I tomorrow afternoon? First to yield or beaten into unconsciousness catches breakfast, lunch and dinner for all five of us for the next week.
Glaedr stared at him for a long moment. …I accept.
Good! I do enjoy my free meals. The crystal dragon quipped before cuddling around Almandine and dozing off once more.
Ancalagon stared and shook his head. Lazy grouch indeed.
"I think it's best we all turn in for the night, we have a busy day tomorrow." Oromis said, getting their attention.
Everyone nodded and, once Almandine got Stargazer up by nudging him roughly, they took off into the air. As they flew, Saphira glanced at Almandine. Should Stargazer really fight Glaedr? The dragon has a wound.
I have to agree, but I think Glaedr's still got some fight in him. Ancalagon added.
Almandine snorted smoke out her nostrils and looked at the two younger dragons. Stargazer knows he'll win. He is unrivaled in physical combat. He even taught mehow to fight. Out of Glaedr, Shruikan and myself... I am the worthiest opponent he has. He knows his limits better than I know mine. It's as if he can read his opponent's body language and predict what they'll do before they do it. It is... one of his many gifts.
They soon arrived at the treehouse Eragon, Saphira and Ancalagon stayed at, with Almandine now carrying a once again sleeping Stargazer on her back. As she watched them, she addressed them once again.
Get a proper rest, the three of you. She said in a serious tone. Your training begins tomorrow. And Michael, I want you well rested, young man. Not only will you be dealing with a problem that has bothered you for some time now… we will also be working on those combat and flight skills of yours.
Understood… Mom. Ancalagon said, still sounding unsure about that but he was accepting it of course.
Almandine hummed and nuzzled him. It pleases me to hear you call me that. I know it's not official, and believe me, Stargazer and I are working on that. But when it is… none will have a better claim at being called our son than you. Now go on and sleep while I tend to your father.
Ancalagon nodded and flew up to the treehouse to join Saphira and Eragon, Almandine watching him go before she turned and flew off to where she and Stargazer had chosen as their temporary residence while they were in Ellesmera.
There, that should hopefully quell anybody thinking they'll see drama between Ancalagon, Saphira and Glaedr.