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Alright I am not a great writer. I am not a great speller. I do not have great grammar either. I do try my hardest to tell good stories, but I am only human. Thankfully I have an editor who will help me. I love the Eragon novels, Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, and the fourth novel soon to be out. I also love Star Wars, and anyone who has read the novels, and seen the star wars movies, will know the Dragon Riders were inspired at least partly by the Jedi Knights. Ever since I read Eragon I had wondered about cross over with a Jedi Knight some how entering into the lands of Alagaesia. I been thinking with all various stories and tales spun of the Jedi and such, to base my character from the Video game Knights of the old republic II The sith lords. In particular, The Jedi Exile.

So the Jedi I will write about is from the Game KotOR II: The Sith Lords. The Exile will be male, and have followed the pure light side canon story. The Exile had both Mical, and the Handmaiden with him when he met them. The Exile's name in my story is Jason Talben, it's a character name I have used before for this character when I rped him in some places. Most of what I write will be just what I feel flow from me.

I am not sure how long this will last and I may very well just stop writing it after some point when it loses interest to me. My Story inclusion picks up just before Eragon, Brom and Saphira, had their encounters with the Urgals when Eragon broke his wrist, used his magic and scattered them, and before they Reach Dras-Leona.

This is nothing more then a personal fanfiction of the Eragon novel series. I claim no profit, no desire to infringe, or belittle the works of Christopher Paolini, for with out him and what I think is an awesome series, this work would not be possible. Thank you greatly. Also despite the fact this is a complete work, there is no assurances I will make a second one to continue the adventures. And I won't be starting it till after the release of the fourth novel so I know the name of the last dragon. I will be extremely surprised if the green dragon does not hatch for Arya in the fourth novel

As it stands this novel is effectively complete. It is only a rough draft, and I am still editing it. I will go over it a number of times editing enhancing it. So one will notice discrepancies in the story. I fully intend to complete this and edit it.

The reason I am posting it as is, is to get feed back and see if I will bother to write a second novel installment, and post it.

 This Story has Spoilers from all three Novels, Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr! You have been warned!

Inheritance Fan Fiction.

Crossing of Paths, Vergence of Destiny, the Force of Change.

The lands of Alagaeisa were changing, a force from many centuries past was once more starting to rise. For the past on hundred years or more an evil man, Galbatorix had ruled most of the land with his iron fist. Now the seeds of his destruction which had been sown had taken root and it was unknown what this planting would yield at harvest. Far above the ground, beyond the height any dragon, or dragon rider could ever hope to fly sat a red and grey ship. A thing of science sat well out of the range of any one's sight, man, elf, or dragon. A ship called Ebon Hawk sat in orbit of the troubled world below. At the helm sat the only living thing on the ship, as he stared at the planet below.

To the naked eye it might appear as any other pre-industrial world, but his eyes were closed. He saw motions, currents, eddies of energy, his senses filled with strange imagines, and he could feel the taint of darkness and evil which gripped this world. Finally he opened his eyes as the sound of metal footstep approached the cockpit, the voice spoke out in a familiar tone.

"Statement: Master, If I may be so bold, we have been holding our position above this dirt ball of a planet for nearly two weeks, an yet you have said not a word on why. Do you intend to remain here indefinitely allowing us to run out of power and supplies."

The man turned to look up at the rusty red assassin droid and smiled softly, "No HK, in fact the time has now come to land." He looked like a young man of perhaps twenty years, maybe twenty five at most. But if one looked into his eyes one would see that his human had been through much, his eyes betrayed his wisdom and kindness he was renowned for. Turning on the comm system, "T3, make sure that you launch those sensors into geosync orbit, and have them keyed to my belt computer. I want to be able to remotely summon the Hawk should I need it." On the other end of the comm came a sound of beeping, and whistles.

To most it would have been unintelligible, but to the pilot he understood it perfectly, "As you wish Master Talben." there the Ebon hawk discharges the first artificial satellites this world had ever had. The Man who was guiding this vessel into the atmosphere of this primitive world was known as Jason Talben. Or more commonly accepted title, The Jedi Exile. Jason was not sure where he was. The star charts he had did not compare or match up with anything in the Hawk's Database. During a jump to hyperspace the Ebon Hawk had hit some sort of distortion in the area. There had been a massive burst of energy and then nothing.

Jason had been out searching for Revan and the True Sith Empire. He had spent the last six years trying to put the Republic back into shape, to help stabilize it further. After the events of the Mandalorian wars, The Jedi civil war, and the conflict between the Sith lords Nihilus, Sion, and Traya. He continued to struggle putting the Republic back together for the next six years after the final destruction of Malachor V. He now could sense that this land this world was at a cross roads, and that destiny was once more converging.

The exile did his scan and there found a perfect place to hide the Ebon Hawk, A large lake beside a city and an outcropping of four rock mountains just south of a city. According to scans the lake was very large and very deep. The perfect spot to hide the Ebon Hawk until needed. He set it in to come in slow and steady to avoid being spotted he descended into the mountains. As the ship flew on auto pilot Jason stood up to get his back pack ready. He took stock of what supplies he would bring with him. Some medical packs, his Zension Sha, Warrior armor, food, A box containing a few extra sets of lightsabers, various lightsaber crystals, and components all sealed with a force lock so only he could open it. Food, extra changes of clothes. The clothes where simple and the scans detecting human life signs he should be able to blend into the back ground thanks to his training in concealment.

He also packed up two Ancient Jedi Katanas that he could use in place of his lightsabers for the time being. The trip from orbit to the lake only took ten minutes. And he grabbed his pack as the Ebon Hawk hovered silently and darkly above the water's surface. He headed to the turrets area as T3-M4 and HK-47 approached him. "You two will remain here until I summon the Ebon Hawk, remain hidden an undetected. T3, You are in charge here, if you keep the hawk at the bottom of the in the deepest part it should remain totally undetected." he spoke as HK-47 more or less left the area. A buzzer and red light indicated the Hawk was now submerging into the lake water. T3 the small astromech droid backed up from the door as the two airlocks closed and sealed protecting the ship from the cool clean water that soon started to spill in, as the hatch opened. soon the small compartment had flooded fully and Jason floated out ad to the surface of the lake.

Using the Force Jason turned and began swimming in the direction of the city he sensed. It took the better part of the night for Jason to swim the distance and there he slowly climbed out of the water on some rocks. With the night air cool he inhaled as he could sense the darkness that held the land in a grip of tyranny. The exile would have to be very careful of the place as he used the force to help blend into the back ground, to become invisible effectively. While he could still be seen, heard and spoken to, he would seem more a blur to memories.

He turned his head to the north east when he felt a disturbance in the Force. It felt as if someone had used the Force to the extreme it seemed. While it felt like it was the Force there was something very, very odd about it. But could not place it, so he paid it little attention for the moment. Once he was on dry land he looked around and saw no one around him and there he pulled up his hood and started off to the city he could sense.

Unlike normal Jedi the Exile did not wear the customary brown robes, he preferred darker colors, in fact his robes where black dyed Jedi master robes. It gave him an air of stealth to him and not that his clothes and robes were now smeared with mud he could appear to be no one of consequence should anyone actually take serious note of him.

It was day break by the time he reached the gates of the city with the large peeks in the distance looming. He could feel pain and suffering here, the darkness, and something else where, elusive, and evil. He remained on guard as he entered the city, looking around he saw primitive dwellings all bunched together, cripples on the side of the street dirty from the mud, pleading for a hand out. Dirty children fighting over food. The sight made his heart ache, he wanted to help these people, but his instinct told him now was not the time to expose himself. But many sights made him think, The slums of Nar Shaddaa were better then this.

The language was strange, and did not make sense to him. He did the only thing he could, he opened his mind and listened watching images and listening to thoughts. Through the force he would understand. Thus he began the long journey of learning the language of the land.

The next few days were slow as Jason gathered his location, Apparently he was in a City named Dras-Leona, the Mountains where called Helgrind, and the Lake was Leona Lake. As he wandered the City he took note on many things, one it was ruled by some one under the rule of a king named Galbatorix, some sort of Dragon Rider, who had ruled over the lands called Alagaesia for more then a hundred of their years. The other was that sense of evil, At night Jason was able to move more freely, and as he did he could sense something skulking through the city at night. More then once he had encountered this evil, and was nearly discovered. Had he not had the Force to warn him he would have been caught between them. Not knowing what was stalking him he chose to avoid confrontation. A far cry from what he would have done in the republic. But he could sense that these two had some part yet to play in the future scheme of things.

These two creatures where not mammal, reptile, avian, insect, but what seemed like an amalgam of all, yet none, and pure evil. More then once he had watched some one come upon these creatures and with speed and reflexes that matched a well trained force user, cut the man down before he had a chance to scream. These two would be a dangerous pair if they were able to use the force like Jason did. He noted how as the dawn came they often shrank away heading back the where ever they came from.

For Jason his days blended into weeks. Before long Jason had full master of both written and spoken language, and he was able to buy food and drink with some loose coins he had found or taken off of would be thieves. Most of his time was spent watching and learning. During this time when he was at rest or meditation he held visions of a young boy perhaps no more then sixteen, beside him a blue flying creature, and old man well beyond his prime, but still strong. And as he some times heard them, The boy's name was Eragon, His Dragon was named Saphira, and the old man Brom. Apparently mentoring the young lad in the ways of the Dragon Riders. His dragon or rather Saphira herself was of interest, fully sentient, and bound to Eragon, as if it was a Force bond.

Jason was at an inn called the Golden Globe, laying on his back at night having chosen to rest this night instead of having his night walk there he watched as a vision came to him. There he watched as the pair was holding a sparing position, Eragon was using his left hand as he could sense his wrist had been hurt. And then Eragon made his move grabbing a stick and flinging it at Brom as he began his attack. The fight went well as Eragon hammered Brom and as Brom got tired, Eragon had redoubled his efforts. Before long Eragon had defeated Brom.

Leaving them to their talk Jason with drew his sight and there shook his head as he whispered to himself, "Boy you waste your effort and talents on your foolish endeavor of revenge against these Ra'zac." he exhaled through his nose and looked around his room and sat up. Jason had not read their minds, but had gathered their intent. Still his watching them had yielded many key facts, apparently the Force as he knew it did not exist in these lands. It was apparently magic they used and was most useful information indeed. These three were on the way to Dras-Leona and soon his path would cross theirs. At last he could feel as if things were slowly coming into place.

Slowly he prepared himself as Fate and destiny once more used him as a focal point.

*****

Finally the day came as he moved to the gate where he could watch the Brom and Eragon enter the city. They Rode on horses, Jason looked at them as he could see Eragon's disgust at the living conditions in the entry way of the city. Still he would need a horse if he was to travel with them when the time came. So he went to see a man about a horse. Jason did not want to interfere in their journey at this stage. No something else had attracted his attention. There was another in this hunt for the Ra'zac, He was not sure who or where but he knew he had to watch his step to avoid being caught in a three way trap.

The Stables where Jason found horses for sale depressed him, most of the animals were not good for long travel so he left them. A slight smile came to his lips as he went to the stables of the army and looking around he saw a number of fine, healthy, and strong horses. He was no animal expert, but he could see a number of Stallions and Mares of very fine quality. There he settled on a Black Stud with others in tow being lead into the stables and there over heard the guards talking.

"Alright, I want these animals branded before high noon, I don't want some horse thief coming in and stealing these animals." The guard captain said and a number of his subordinates laughed, one even commented on it would be a thief with death wish. Jason smiled from the shadows as he used the force to cloak himself and slowly head into the stables and there he located the stable keeper as he was getting out his supplies to Brand the animals, and he looked at the tools, then the Guard captain. There he used the force and lifted his hand to motion to the horse he had selected. There the guard Captain shook his head some but went over to the stallion.

There Jason applied more of his Jedi mind tricks. "You there, I want this animal shooed, groomed, and ready for a long trip. Make sure the supplies he has while old and worn are fully usable." Jason said in a soft voice.

The stable master stood to attention almost scared of this superior as he said in a harsh commanding tone, "You there. I want this animal shooed, groomed, and Ready for a long trip. Make sure the supplies he has while old and worn are fully usable."

"Yes Sir!" The keeper stood at attention.

"Make sure there are no identifiable marks on the animal, nor what he carries. And ensure a decent supply of coins are with him. Ready to grab at a moment's notice." Jason said.

The Captain spoke once more repeating Jason's words with the air of command. Jason's final suggestion to the captain was a vague description of a man in black robes will speak a word to get the supplies, that word would be Dantooine. This would allow Jason to get what he needed with little hassle, he hoped. At that point Jason effortlessly slide out after hearing some of the soldiers tell the keeper not to question their captain's orders unless he wanted flogged.

Jason returned to the Golden Globe and to his surprise he found Eragon and Brom eating. The two were quiet for their meal, and tempted as he was did not peek into their minds, the last thing he wanted was to breech their privacy. Finally they retired for the evening pleasantly drunk as he stood watch as a silent and unknown guardian.

During the night Jason felt something brush against his mind ever so slightly not a malicious mind, but of curiosity. Jason held his place and did not betray that he had sensed it as the mind worked it's way into his thoughts, once he was sure he could speak he asked with in his thoughts, "I mean no harm, but who are you?" he asked with a soft voice. He sensed the other mind was not human, and far more complex then any minds he had yet sensed. Who ever this was had wisdom to him, great wisdom, wisdom Jason thought only of the great jedi masters.

When the other mind realized he had been caught. There was shock and confusion, but did not withdraw, nor attack, Jason readied his defenses. Finally a soft voice spoke in a strange language as Jason sensed the intent of the words, but did not understand it. He also sensed that these words held great power to them. The question was "Who are you, why do you follow the rider?"

Jason kept a good deal of his mind hidden and covered as he chose his words with great care. "Forgive me, I know not this language you speak in, I am Jedi Master Jason Talben. I mean Eragon, Saphira, nor Brom any harm."

Again confusion as the voice asked, "How do I know you mean no harm to them?"

A smile came to Jason's mind as he said, "Were I am enemy, I would have informed the army of them and prepared a trap for Eragon and Brom with the help of these Ra'zac they hunt. A trap that would have been sprung already." he said softly.

The voice in Jason's mind pondered for a bit as there was a sense of acceptance, "Do you intend to watch from afar and not interfere, or join them in their journey?"

"I intend to join them upon their travels, I sense fate and destiny has chosen Eragon to help free this world of the Darkness that holds it. But I am unsure how to gain their friendship and acceptance."

The mind to mind contact grew a bit stronger as if to ensure contact, "You are not from our lands?"

"No, I am a stranger, from an even stranger land."

Jason could feel tendrils expanding into his mind as Jason put up his own defenses to guard his thoughts and memories. He made the wall of pain, pain he had endured to help discourage further probing. Finally the voice said, "If you are a friend, speak to Saphira and say, Skulblaka, eka Celobra ono un onr Shur'tugal ne' haina. Atra nosu waise' Fricaya. It means 'Dragon, I honor you and mean your Rider no harm. Let us be Friends.' When you speak these words you will be bound to them, and I trust you not to speak of our words when you meet them."

At that point Jason felt the link between him and this other mind fade and vanish. Leaving Jason to ponder who it had been. Still he would keep those words in his mind and roll them around, For some reason he knew that was the truth, once he spoke them to Saphira she should help convince Eragon, and then Brom. Jason then once more took up his vigil. He sensed things would get interesting very soon.

*****

The next day once Brom and Eragon had gotten up they moved to explore the city. Jason did not follow Brom, rather Eragon making sure that he did not do anything foolish. He watched as Eragon did his best to discreetly ask about Seithr oil, from what he gathered used for jewelers. Finally finding out about it, he hurried back to the Golden Globe to wait for Brom. Jason waited half an hour before entering into the Inn as which point he moved up to the bar to order a beer.

As he sat the Bar keep asked Jason, "You look like you are dressed for a funeral, been here for a number of weeks as if yer waiting fer someone." He said as if trying to stir up conversation, "Aye, Relative took sick in Uru' Baen." He said in thick accent, "They not spected to live beyond the end of the new month. Waiting fer relatives to show up in day next day or so, if not, I have ta head on wit out em." After a while he heard some one come into the Inn and turned to see Brom enter Fatigued as Jason gave a heaving sigh and lowered his head.

"Not dem." Jason said in a sad tone.

The Bar Keep nodded,"Perhaps they will turn up soon. Here have a drink on me to drown yer sorrows." And the Bar keep handed Jason a Mug of beer and as Jason lifted it to his nose he smelled something off in it and tasted it he tasted something else. Something had been slipped into his drink, fairly potent too. Jason heaved a sigh as he pushed it back and said, "Sorry belly turned sour, thanks anyway." and he placed a small coin on the table and went to a corner as the bar keep seemed annoyed.

Jason focused his mind as he heard through the Force Eragon and Brom talking, and having heard that Galbatorix was due to enter the city in a week's time. Filled him with concern as well. There Eragon and Brom spoke quietly of their plans. Finally there was a plan, Jason thought about dealing with Galbatorix when he showed up, but he knew that was to be Eragon's destiny. Or so he hoped.

Jason over heard the barkeep talk to two men and comment on how they would need to collect him the hard way. Jason's eyes narrowed at the slavers, and there he stood up and walked out of the Inn. As he left so too did the two men who followed him, Jason wandered slowly with his hood up yet not obstructing his face so people could see him.

He walked down an alley moving carefully he could hear the men follow him.

Jason turned a Corner and saw a dead end, as those foot steps grew closer he leaped up and with the force jumped to a roof allowing the men to head down the alley and then dropped behind them slowly fingering his lightsaber he instead drew one of his Katanas. The Durasteel and cortosis weave blade shimmered in the light as the two asked, "Where'd he go?" there he looked down at the blade and Jason spoke very softly.

"Right behind you." and with that the pair turned with a start holding clubs in their hands. Lowering his hood Jason hid his face more. The two held their clubs and patted them in their hand, "Drop the blade, we'd rather you not be too damaged for sale tomorrow." there Jason lifted his hand and used the force to push the two hulking men back into a wall with a nice hard thud.

"I think not." and there he says, "You two are lucky I don't kill you here and now." Jason said bluffing as the two scrambled back away from him and there they cowered as he said "I will spare your wretched lives, but only so you may rethink how you live, I warn you I shall not be so merciful the next time." there Jason lifted up his hand and with the Force ripped off their coin pouches and said, "Be thankful, your money is all I am taking from you instead of your hands, or tongues." Jason watched as they bowed down as he pocketed their money and sheathed his blade. With a wave of his hand he says, "You will forget what I look like." and there they slumped down as he left the alley way and looked around to make sure no one else had seen what had transpired.

Jason felt it was time to leave. There he headed to the Inn and paid for the last few nights as he then left. Jason headed to the garrison stables and allowed the guards to see him. Walking close he looked around and saw the horse was ready. A guard stopped Jason and asked, "Sir do you have business here?" and there Jason replied, "Dantooine." There the guard stood up as he said "This way sir." and there he was directed to his horse and let them, place the saddle on, the bag, then approached the horse.

The horse nickered and stepped away from Jason as he lifted a hand up and calling upon the force helped to steady the skittish stallion's nerves. That was enough to allow him to mount up and and with the force guide the stallion out of the stabled. All this to the watching eyes of the guards. Jason was heading for the gates and managed to get out of the city at a slow trot. Once he felt he was out of sight he managed to get the horse to gallop some and there he just needed to wait.

****

The next day early in the morning he started to stretch and exercise. He had to be ready to leave when things happened. Midway through his routine for the day, he sensed a disturbance in the force as his thoughts turned to Eragon and Brom, there he could sense them in trouble and there he gathered his few items out and there. He began to mount his horse as he a squad of soldiers some on horse back approaching him. He looked off to the distance and realized he had left the city on the far side where Eragon and Brom had left. He was on the north side of the city, and they were on the south. In the distance he could hear trumpets blaring and if he took off now it would only force these soldiers to chase him.

So despite his hurried packing he held the reigns of his horse as the soldiers at first galloped to get to him, but slowed their pace to a trot when they realized he would wait.

Slowly those horses surrounded him as Jason realized these soldiers were surrounding him and he spoke to the leader, "Afternoon sir What can a poor soul like me do for you?"

"What are you doing here, more so what are you doing all dressed in black?" the guard said harshly and commandingly.

"On my way ta Uru'Baen sir, I have a sick relations who not got long for this world, but I have lost my sense of direction." Jason said as the other troops had caught up in the hustle.

He did his best to sense the intent of the one questioning him, he was a greedy sort the kind who would take every last object of value from him, and there Jason resolved himself to not allow that, and hoped it would not come to fighting.

"And What if I say yer a bandit looking to way lay travelers?" He accused Jason directly.

Jason attempted a Jedi Mind Trick as he pleaded "Nay sir, I'm not a bandit, if I was I'd have others with me."

His reply was cold and harsh "Perhaps to lure travels into a trap later. Search his belongings, we'll see what sort of ill gotten gains this bandit has." Jason narrowed his eyes as two soldiers approached him and Jason sighed out. Weighing his options Jason allowed his arms to drop and then as the guards approached he said, "I'm sorry." The guards heard him and before they could respond Jason attacked.

Jerking his arms down his two lightsabers entered into his hands and with a crazap he turned on the deadly weapons. The blades ignited with a gold colored saber core, with a silver outer aura. There he lashed out as the blades effortlessly cleaved through the armor of the guards and he stabbed them in the heart killing them both instantly. The swords of light had startled the horses as Jason used their fear and summoned for an image of a rancor rising up in their midst, and there the horses threw their riders as Jason wielded two light sabers and slashed left and right at the soldiers s they tried to futilely block his saber strikes.

Jason used his to kill with one stroke as he slashed and lashed out. The soldiers were no match for his speed and before long he had slain them all and looking around he say his stallion skittering away as he used the force to calm the animal. looking at the city Jason took a few moments to grab a couple of coin pouches that he could spot and said, "Please forgive me, I had not wanted to harm you." and there Jason turned off his sabers, put them on his belt, and mounted his horse. He looked to the south and there he turned the horse and took off riding like mad. He used the force to help cover his tracks covering and scattering them.

Jason was riding hard and fast as he took a slow circle around the city to try and catch up with Brom, Eragon, and Saphira. He wished he had a swoop bike with him, he'd be with them in no time. But wishing did not mean having so he rode using the forced to help keep his horses energy up.

Chapter 2

Encounter with Evil

Jason's ride lasted well into the night. And as he used the force to search for Brom, Eragon, and Saphira. Finally he found what appeared to be a make shift camp, and the signs of a struggle. Jason dismounted his horse and looked around the camp, kneeling down he ran his fingers over some foot prints and dried blood. There had been a fight, as had those skulking evil beings he had sensed in Dras-Leona. Standing up he came over to where he found large metal chains for caging a very large animal. He noticed Horse tracks and the direction they lead, and using the force to see he could see Saphira flying in the sky, and she was carrying something.

Jason quickly mounted his horse, and was prepared to ride, when he felt evil behind him and turns his horse to face the Ra'zac. He still had his hood down as they stood there watching, waiting for the other to make the first move. As the Ra'zac took a step forward, one said, "Tell us where they are, and you will live as a slave."

"Leave Foul ones, and you will live to see yet another night." Jason said in no uncertain terms.

That only made the Ra'zac chuckle as they started to separate. Looking at both Jason realized time was running out as he said, "I have not the time to play with you so," He lifted his hand up and in that instant the Ra'zac pounce. He had simply intended to pick them up and throw them a great distance away but now he unleashed blue white lightning from his finger tips at the Ra'zac. The Lightning was powerful, strong, and clearly intended to kill both of them instantly. The Ra'zac when hit by it screamed and shrieked in pain and agony as one of the most terrible Force attacks was used upon them.

Force lightning did more then just harm the flesh, it also tortured the mind, and attacked the spirit. A number of protective wards around the Ra'zac had been able to protect them some, but not from all of the effects as they were blown back into a couple of Rocks. They had the lightning coursed over their bodies as then whined and shrieked, trying in vain to get up. Another blast would kill them and as evil as the were Jason could not bring himself to finish them off. Thinking quickly he looked at the chains on the ground and there yanks over a large section of the bindings which had been used to chain Saphira.

With the force Jason was able to rip the metal muzzle apart and with bands of metal used it to form a belt around both Ra'zac's waists binding them together. "There that will keep you two busy for the night and out of our hair." Jason said making sure both Ra'zac would not wriggle their way out. Jason turned his horse and rode off leaving behind two very dazed, and no doubt very pissed off creatures.

*******

Jason had rode hard across the ground as he ran through the words in his head and began picking them apart, and given how the words Skulblaka, and Shur'tugal have been highly enunciated. He figured that Skulblaka literally meant Dragon, and Shur'tugal meant Rider. Still switching them around could provoke things. Soon Jason reached a rocky outcropping as he could sense the trio inside had been joined by another. Grabbing hold of his bag with healing supplies he hoped that by the Force he was not too late. The sun was just about to rise into the sky it had been a very long night and hard ride for him and his horse.

Jason bounded up the rocks to the cliff face and there he slowed down as he neared the mouth of the cave and there he slowly appeared at the mouth of the cave. In the back was a fire as he could see a large shape in the distance as well as hearing a deep growl, and two other human shapes then just as he was about to speak he heard Eragon yell, "Ra'zac!" and there he heard a roar as he looked to Saphira and then he sensed danger, moving with force enhanced reflexes, he caught the arrow with his bare hand on the shaft just as the dragon lunged at him.

Jason had little time to react as he lifted his hand and used the force to summon a wave of force to trip Saphira. Knowing she was between him and the others he used his force powers and telepathy to shout into Saphira's mind, "Skulblaka, eka Celobra ono un onr Shur'tugal ne' haina. Atra nosu waise' Fricaya!"

Jason had fought hard to get past her mind shield to make sure she heard him, and in that instant she snapped her neck up and her raged seemed to vanish, and then he called aloud to Saphira, "Skulblaka, eka Celobra ono un onr Shur'tugal ne' haina. Atra nosu waise' Fricaya." That made her back up and scramble back as he looked into the cave and could see Eragon and took a chance, and spoke hoping the meaning would be clear. "Shur'tugal, eka Celobra ono un onr Skulblaka ne' haina. Atra nosu waise' Fricaya."

It took a moment as he heard Eragon call out pained, "Come in..." and there he entered quickly as he looked at Brom laying on the make shift bed slowly dying.

Instantly Jason went over to Bom's side "I have skills in healing, Let me try to help him." Eragon, Saphira, and another came up as Jason looked over Brom and he places his hand on his forehead. Running his other hand over the side of Brom where he sensed Brom's pain and there with the force sensed the extent of his injury, "Sith's Blood!"

There Jason inhale and exhaled slowly as he said, "His heart is wounded, I will do all I can to try and save him, but I may be too late." And there Jason opened his hand and placed it over the wound and there summoned the Force. Recalling his experience healing the wounds of his companions Atton, Bao-dur, Mira... he began to work hard on healing Brom's wound. A Blue Nimbus surrounded Jason's hand and the energy flowed into Brom's wounded side. There he encountered resistance from the Poison and his face got tighter.

"I am sure Brom was hit with a dagger coated in Sethir Oil, it destroys flesh..." Eragon said watching.

"Thank you, that will help me treat him, You should have your own injuries looked at and tended. It will take most of the night for me to heal Brom." and there Jason settled into his healing trance. Allowing the force to mend Brom's wounds physical ones. Still he sensed great pain of the spirit, A wound he had never had heal. The Exile sent a message into the mind of Brom, "Rest Brom, let me heal your wounds, save your strength." He felt the mind of the old man question him and there he gave a kind smile and a feeling of warmth.

Most of the day Jason remained tending the wound of Brom. It was evening before the Exile finished and there having remained still for many hours he finally opened his eyes and looked around. Saphira jerked her head up and moments later Eragon was awoken. "Is Brom?"

"He is resting, had I gotten here any later...." he says and there began to approach Eragon, "Now it is time for me to tend your injury."

"You can't possibly have the strength to heal me as well... can you?"

Jason smiled as he said, "I have great strength My friend." and there he watched Eragon lay down and there under the watchful eyes of both Saphira and the stranger Jason removed Eragon's Tunic and there slowly unwrapped the bandages, there he saw the discoloration of the ribs and there running his hand over the surface of the wound he closed his eyes, "Two broken ribs, I can heal them but I need to move them a bit to have them set properly. It will hurt some. I will try to be as gentle as possible." There he used the force to take hold of the ribs and said, "There is no shame in screaming when one is in pain."

The Other boy couple years older then Eragon said, "Only when it could attract unwanted attention, like soldiers."

"Quite right, and wise words for one so young." and there he reached behind him and he forced yanked his bag over to him as he let the ribs go, "I will give you a numbing agent, It will kill the pain, but keep you awake." there he dug through his back and pulled out a case with a large white cross, and a red star behind it. There opening the case he moved his hands through a number of supplies as Saphira watched warily. They trusted him only so much he could sense it. Finally Eragon said, "I'll endure it."

Jason looked at Eragon and setting the hypospray into the case said, "As you wish my friend." there he once more used the force to take hold of the bone and then pulled them into place as he got a sharp cry from Eragon who stifled it. There Jason began healing the bones letting the cells divide and grow, repairing and healing the wound. It took ten minutes before he was done an the same blue nimbus around his hand that had been used to heal Brom, faded. "You will be stiff for a while, but you will be alright."

Slowly Jason stood up as the other boy came up handing Jason a water skin. "I also went down and brought your horse up."

Jason accepted the water skin and when he heard of that he bowed his head. "Ah thank you very much." he spoke and then took a long drink from the water skin as Eragon stood up slowly stretching.

"I am Jason Talben, pleasure to finally meet you all."

"Eragon, and this is Saphira. Brom is the one you helped."

"Murtagh." the young boy said as Brom began to awaken.

Brom groaned out as Jason turned to head over to Brom and spoke softly, "Easy, easy, I was able to heal you but you will be weak for the next few days." Brom looked at Jason and coughed some as he sat up slowly, "Thank ya, were it not for ya I would have been done for sure. You be the one who saved us from the Ra'zac?"

"That would be Murtagh here." Eragon said

Brom looked past Jason as he could sense trouble brewing, to prevent it Jason spoke up, "Look all of you, I don't mean to be rude, but we really need to get going. Before soldiers show up to try and finish what the Ra'zac started. We five need to go now, I can sense the soldiers had found where the Ra'zac ambushed you and it won't take them much to find out what direction I traveled to get here."

Brom stared at Murtagh for a while when he was distracted by Jason throwing a small stone at him "Hey, you can have your staring contest with Murtagh later when we are away from here. And if there is a problem we can address it then, but now is not the time. Besides you two are still weak from me healing, and I doubt two strong able bodied people would not be welcome on your journey. Murtagh come over here help me get the horses ready."

Murtagh broke his gaze at Brom and looking around like he was gonna escape complied. With Murtagh's help Jason managed to get the horses saddled and and set up. Jason took his Horse and Cadoc by the reigns and Murtagh Took his horse Tornac and Snowfire as they walked them down, the rocky slope. When Jason noted Saphira was about to take off Jason spoke to her, "Saphira might I suggest that you remain low to the ground to avoid being seen, until nightfall."

Saphira looked over at him as Jason looked back, Eragon was the one who spoke up, "Brom said it was rude to interfere with a Rider's dragon."

"Is she your dragon? Or are you her rider? I was under the impression she had her own mind, and could do as she wishes. That you are partners, companion, and friend, not your master, nor your servant." Jason said as Eragon wrapped his mind around what meant.

Eragon scowled as he said, "You speak in more riddles then Brom!"

Brom's stare at Jason did not go unnoticed as Jason felt his mind be touched upon by Brom. A bit annoyed Jason said to Brom with telepathy, "Is there something I can help you with Brom?"

"Yes, exactly how you were able to find us and such?" He asked

"That is a very long and complex answer, to which I Shall answer when we have time for a proper explanation. Trying to describe the ocean, to a man who had never left a desert is a difficult thing to do."

"What does that mean?"

"It means my friend, I must speak with care and wisdom, so you think I am neither mad, nor your enemy. Now you know this young man that travels with us, you know who he is?"

Brom paused as he took in Jason's words and then answered his question. "He is Murtagh, Son of Morzan."

"Morzan? I have not heard of this Morzan before, I am not a native to the lands of Alagaesia."

Brom explained in some details about Morzan and Jason soaked his words in, knowing full well Brom was being secretive and not sharing all the truth.. Jason replied with a soft spoken voice and words of wisdom. "Judge not the child for the sins of the father, least your children be judged for your sins. Murtagh may be Morzan's son, But he has not harmed you, nor Eragon. Let him be judged for his actions, not the actions of his father. I will watch him carefully. Have you told Eragon yet?"

Brom paused as he listened to the words of Jason and then said, "No, not yet. But he will know Eragon's sword, and when Eragon finds out the truth of that blade he's gonna be full of questions."

"Then perhaps I can help him with hold the expectations for those questions, if you let me, and will trust me Brom, or if you feel he is ready for the truth, tell him."

Jason felt Brom almost wished he had been allowed to die in the cave as he resigned his place, and withdrew from Jason's mind.

The evening was spent with them more or less avoiding a couple of military patrols, Eragon and Murtagh had spoken more about Why Murtagh was following the Ra'zac. Jason found out that Murtagh was pretty much fleeing the empire sounding like a man on the run. Finally a couple of questions were posed to Jason by Eragon.

"Where did you come from, How did you find us, How can you use magic with out using words of power?" Jason lifted his hand to Eragon and spoke.

"Hold your other questions till I answer these three as best I can. The Answers are not simple. The First answer is I am not from Alagaesia. My home, if you would call it such, where I grew up is called Dantooine. It is very, very far away. But I have not been there for many years. Second, I have been aware of you, Saphira, and Brom, for a number of weeks, I sensed that the time of darkness was nearing it's end for Alagaesia, and that someone was the key to it." Jason said as he inhaled and exhaled as he continued.

"The final question, how I can use magic with out the words of power is simple. It is not magic as you understand it, where I come from it is called The Force. Like Magic it is an energy field that I can access and manipulate to produce a number of various effects. Even heal with it. Through the Force I can see things, The past, the future....."

"You can see the future?" Eragon asked

That made Brom and Murtagh stop their horses and turn to Jason as he smirked, "But the future is always in motion, always shifting, changing. Attempting to see into the future the end results of a battle before it happens, for example. Just because you see victory does not mean it will be one, you could win the battle yes, but who knows what price will be extracted. It is always better to live in the present, and have some forethought of your actions then constantly attempting to see how your decisions will effect the future."

"It is also how I saw you both before. I was resting at the Golden Globe Inn when I saw you defeat Brom."

"Brom said you can't scry something you have never seen before." Eragon stated flatly.

"As I said my powers are not magic as you understand it. Perhaps you will believe this." Jason motioned on the Trio to continue riding as he gave a moment by moment, blow by blow account of the fight with Brom where Eragon first bested Brom. And he noticed the air was charged as Jason said. "I was there when you rode into Dras-Leona, I was in the Golden Globe when you found out Galbatorix was due to head to the city in a week's time, and the Ra'zac at Helgrind. If I was a servant of Galbatorix you would all be at his mercy by now, I would not have shown up alone, but with both the Ra'zac and hundreds of the king's soldiers. I could imagine this Galbatorix would have rewarded me handsomely for leading his forces to you."

Brom then asked, "How did you know what to say to Saphira and Eragon so they would trust you?"

"That is my secret, and those are the only words I know of this ancient language, and I assure you I mean no harm to you Brom, Eragon, Saphira, or Murtagh. Like all of us, I have secrets I can not share, nor questions I can answer."

Brom, Eragon, Murtagh, Saphira, and Jason stopped for the around midnight. Jason hitched the horses close by and came over with his pack. They had commented on his horse and were shocked to find out how he got the fine stallion. So Jason chose the name Raider for his stallion. As the night slowly came down Jason sat down away from the group when Brom and Eragon began to work on dinner. Jason had given them access to his supplies to help make the meal. When It was cooking Eragon was stretching some to help loosing his side.

Murtagh noticed his sword when Eragon sat down, Jason just listened to the two. "That sword. May I see it?" He watched Eragon reluctantly hand over the sword, to the exile it was clear he was hesitant to part with it but did hand the blade over. Murtagh examined the sword and the symbol on it intently. His face darkened into one of anger. "Where did you get this?"

"Brom gave it to me. Why?"

Murtagh shoved the sword back into the hands of Eragon and balled his hands into fists. Jason could feel Brom's mental sigh as he did all he could to prepare himself to the assault of questions. "That Sword," Murtagh said with strong emotions. Among them, anger, fear, hate, and resentment, the latter of which was directed to Eragon. Jason could easily guess that he felt cheated, and betrayed out of his dead father's sword. "was once as well known as its owner. The last rider to carry it was Morzan-- A brutal, savage man." Jason found in intriguing Murtagh did not call him his father. and the emotions he felt rolling off of him was one of hate. He honestly hated his father. "I thought you were a foe of the Empire, yet here I find you bearing one of the Forsworn's bloody swords!"

Eragon was in shock, as he stared at the blade and then looked up at Brom as if to question him his mind racing as even Saphira seemed on edge of the blade. Jason felt it was time to interject now, "Eragon, I know what you want. Answers. But the one question that needs to be asked is this, are you willing to accept answers that you may not be ready to hear?" he asked Eragon. All eyes turned to Jason as he said. "Eragon, Some answers you seek, you may not be ready for. Your reaction to Morzan's blade shows this. Answers that at this time in your life, your training, would only be a burden. A burden you are not ready to endure. For example. What if in learning the tale of this blade, how Brom gained it. You learn you are related to This King Galbatorix? Are you truly ready to learn such a truth when it might shatter your very sense of identity?"

Looking at Saphira, Eragon seemed to be questioning and it made Jason smile as he was seeking council, finally Eragon turned to Brom and asked, "Is this Morzan's blade?"

"Aye it is Eragon."

Eragon thought carefully, "Why did you give it to me?"

"Because Morzan was the first and last of the Forsworn. You are the first of the New Dragon Riders. Galbatorix destroyed all the other blades. No more rider swords will ever be made. I felt you deserved one." Brom's voice was heavy as he lit his pipe and took a long inhale. "And perhaps with the blade that helped bring about the fall of the riders, will bring about it's return."

"Even so, I'm going to carry it. I don't have a sword of my own. Until such time as I get one, I'll use Zar'roc." Jason watched as Murtagh flinched hearing the name spoken and there Brom looked deep in thought.

Jason asked Brom. "Brom, would you tell me of the Dragon Riders, who they were, what they stood for?"

*****

For nearly an hour Jason listened to Brom his eyes closed and in deep thought. Jason had a soft smile upon his lips as he allowed Brom to recite a bit of the dragon rider lore. Jason began to think that Brom was A rider himself, but his dragon had been killed. He did not press the subject. "Seems we have much in common Eragon. The Dragon Riders, and the Jedi order are very much the same."

"Jedi Order?" Eragon asked.

"Yes, like the Dragon Riders, Jedi are guardians of peace and justice. Diplomats, councilors, healers, but only as a last resort are we Warriors. Yes I too am a Jedi." Jason explained. "But we don't fly around on large dragons." he said smiling to Saphira. "And I must apologize for forcing my way into your mind Saphira, But I did not think you would hear my words over your roaring."

Saphira looked at him as their eyes made contact. "I understand and you are forgiven."

"Jason you're a Jedi?" Murtagh asked clearly having no knowledge of what a Jedi was.

Nodding Jason said "Yes, Jedi Master to be exact. I may look young, but I assure you I'm nearly forty years old. A side effect of using the Force is how you use it, determines how you age. My way it slows the aging down, helps preserve one's youth and vigor. My way is peace, calm, serenity. The other way involves giving into passions, anger, hate, rage. And those emotions age the user much faster then normal. It is complex to explain. Jedi also used special swords. You claim you do not have a sword of your own."

Eragon listened to Jason as did Murtagh, intently. "What is a sword? What is a sword in deed?" he asks slowly standing up and walking to Raider. There he took off two cloth covered poles. Jason came over and sat down. "A sword, Any weapon gains it's value in how it is used. In the struggle of how it is wielded. Take Zar'rac for example. Put it in the hand's of Morzan, it is a butchery tool. Put it in the hands of the most noble Dragon Rider, it becomes a symbol of hope, strength, and justice."

"Eragon, I don't know how to explain this, you have a special destiny. And somehow, Murtagh is part of it." Jason said softly.

"How could you possibly know that?" Scoffed Brom. Brom, Eragon, Saphira, and Murtagh just looked at Jason.

"How I know it is nothing I can explain, but I do know there is a connection between Eragon and Murtagh. I don't know what it is, what this link is for sure. But my instincts tell me, their fates are tied together somehow, at least for now. And that is why I give you these." and Jason stood up as he held one in each hand one of those cloth covered poles. Murtagh and Eragon took them and long at each other as They looked at the poles.

"Bah, I think yer nothing but a insane mage." Brom said fingering his sword.

"Insane am I?" Jason said, he turned around very slowly and looked brom in the eyes and there he spoke through the mind. "I am not insane Brom, I know this just but looking at them they are connected, you know this, you were surprised to see Murtagh, worried and scared. I also suspect you are a dragon rider, yet your dragon was killed. How else would you know so much. Then there is Morzan's Sword, How did you get it? I would be willing to gamble you took it from Morzan himself, after he was killed. Through the force I can sense things, and the connection between Murtagh and Eragon is strong, almost brotherly."

Brom eyes open wide in surprise as Jason continued, Jason read his emotions like a book. "They are brothers, Eragon is Morzan's son, perhaps I should tell them."

"NO!, Eragon is not Morzan's son!"

Brom relented and mentally told Jason this much as he relaxed. "Eragon and Murtagh have the same mother, different fathers. That is why I did not tell Eragon of Murtagh's father."

"I understand, I shall not speak of it, but fate has united them, let them grow to be friends. Trust in me Brom."

Brom settled down and exhaled sharply and looked at the fire. "You two gonna open those, or leave it a mystery to me, I ain't getting no younger." he said as Jason Sat down. Eragon opens his as Murtagh did. Out of the cloth came two curved swords, complete with scabbards and belts. Slowly Eragon and Murtagh drew their blades and shown the mirror like finish and thin blades.

"Jedi Katanas. Infused with the Force, the blades will never break, or dull. They will be eternally sharp. Those swords belonged to two ancient and very powerful master's of my order. Jedi do not name their blade, there for if you each wanted to name them. It is your right, or let them earn their name." The blades where fairly simple looking and unadorned. The handle intricately carved as was the scabbards. There was no gems, but it was clear to them the blades were of master craftsman.

"Thank you, but will you fight with your magic, now that we have your blades?" Murtagh asked.

"No, I have other blades on me, but drawing them or using them unless it was vital, they would draw too much attention." Jason said.

Jason watched as they held the swords and he and Murtagh swung the blades as Mutragh said. "These are perfectly balanced, Masterful swords. What will you do with Zar'rac now?"

Eragon looked at Brom then Zar'rac. "I don't want to use it any more, but I also don't want to throw it away or destroy it yet." Eragon took Zar'rac off his belt and used the same cloth that his katana was placed in to wrap it up. Tying leather strips around it to secure it. Eragon walked over and placed it on Cadoc and tied it in places as he rubbed his side.

As Eragon finished up Murtagh turned to Jason and said, "I find it hard to believe you would just give us such weapons out of the kindness of your heart."

"As I said, I sense you both have a special destiny tied together. It wasn't chance that you found each other.

"I was hunting the Ra'zac." Murtagh quipped.

"Indeed, will you come with us Murtagh, Join us?" Eragon asked. "If the Ra'zac are after us. You may get your chance soon."

"And what of you Jason?" Brom asked. "You spoke ancient words, there is no doubt you mean Eragon or Saphira no harm."

Jason thought about Brom and said, "After what I did to the Ra'zac, they are not going to be happy with me. I would rather not encounter them alone. I will continue with you, offering my help and my advise as best I can. I was wondering, and forgive me for being grim. But what would have happened had Brom died?" Jason held hand to Brom as he looked to Eragon and Saphira for the answers.

Eragon spoke as he was made to think, "I suppose our goal would be to get to The Varden, only Brom never told me how to find them."

Saphira spoke to Jason, "Brom told me, we were to meet a friend of his in Gil'ead, who would take Eragon and I to the Varden."

Jason leaned back and after a while spoke. "All of you, my arrival in Alagaesia, I am sure was pure chance. An Accident. Had I not been here, Brom would have died. And we would be heading to Gil'ead. Eragon I would council us heading there. Something is telling me, to head north. Is Gil'ead north?"

Eragon nodded as Brom shook his head. "The choice is yours Eragon, Go directly to the Varden, or head north to Gil'ead." Jason said and stood up as he went to get himself some food now that it was done.

The meal was simple but good. When it was done he watched Eragon look at Brom and asked, "Feel up to sparing tonight?"

Jason watched as Murtagh spoke, "With sharped swords, you'll cut each other to ribbons."

"Maybe you should spar with him Murtagh, get used to your new swords." Brom said as Jason leaned against a rock to watch them, his senses expanded as the two looked to each other and Eragon spoke.

"No we won't. Let me show you." Eragon took his katana and there places his finger on the edge of the blade ran it as he said, "Geuloth du knifr."

Jason felt energy flow over the Katana as he looked to Brom as he said in translation, "Dull the knife." Once Murtagh had checked the edge of Eragon's sword and was told he could undo it, Eragon blocked Murtagh's sword and the two took up a fighting position. There they performed a few strikes to gauge how to use the blades and then they attacked. Lashing out, back and forth as they tried to gain an advantage over the other. The blades clashed and lashed out as they blocked and deflected each others blows.

Murtagh and Eragon were to Jason highly skilled, high endurance, and both grew tired at the same rate, their skill was so well matched neither gained an advantage other the other. After a good while Eragon and Murtagh stopped their fighting, neither able to over come the other. "Your good, you could be the king's swords master if you wanted to."

Jason watched as Eragon removed the wards from their blades and sheathed their swords.

"Those swords are made for combat, I thought Zar'rac was a fine blade, this is equal or surpasses it, it's lighter, swings faster it seems." Eragon said.

"Good, glad you like them but for now I need to rest, I have been up for the better part of two days and need some rest." Jason said as he stood up to get into his bed roll. "Rest well you four." Jason turned over closed is eyes and went to sleep.

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The next morning Jason woke up as someone shook him making him come to wake with a small start. The smell of cooking food was in the air as he looked up at Brom, "Morning, time to wake up. We let ya sleep for as long as possible, but it's time to get up." Jason gave a stretch and a yawn as he looked around to find Eragon and Murtagh chatting up a storm. Talking about the finer points of hunting, swordsmanship, and such. It brought a smile to Jason's lips. He was pleased to see these two getting along. Jason realized they had let him sleep due to thinking he needed it after healing Brom and Eragon. Which was not true.

Jason was surprised as Eragon began to get his Bedroll together. Being allowed to sleep was one thing being treated as a whelp was totally another. "Eragon stop, I'm not helpless. I can handle it myself." He said firmly. Jason ate his food and quickly packed his stuff up with no trouble. Took awhile but the crew was ready to depart. Jason sensed Eragon's mind was troubled as Jason asked. "I can sense you are disturbed Eragon, what's wrong?"

Eragon turned to look at Jason as if to question him, Jason explained, "It's clear to me somethings bothering you. How you move, hold your self. Your eyes and face tell me something is on your mind."

Jason smiled kindly as Eragon looked at him with wary eyes, but hesitantly told Jason of his dreams of the woman in the cell, and how he had been able to Scry her as well. Rubbing his chin Eragon asked, "Is this why you felt the need to go north?" Eragon asked.

"I don't know Eragon, I honestly do not know. But it maybe that, I don't know. What will you do Eragon? Remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey." he asked as everyone looked to him.

Eragon looked at his horse Cadoc and moved to mount up. "We ride north to Gil'ead." Jason could sense Eragon was conflicted and all Jason could do was offer support.

Jason moved to his horse as well and began to saddle up.

*********************

The ride with Brom, Eragon, and Murtagh was enjoyable for the most part but something was growing on Jason's mind. There was a disturbance in the Force and he could feel something wrong, there was something calling for help pleading for it and he could feel it. After the fourth day of riding Jason's distraction was clear. And that night as he stared into the camp fire meditating he listened to Brom helping Eragon and Murtagh training.

Finally Eragon asked Jason "What's wrong?"

"There is a disturbance in the Force. I sense something calling, pleading for help, I can't get it out of my mind." Jason leaned back and closed his eyes as he steadied himself. "I see a room, no a cage, or prison. Strong, massive, fortified. Stone walls, strong and thick, It is shaped like a circle. One heavy, thick metal door. The room has six cages, in these cages I see orbs. One as silver as a coin streaked with large gold veins. I see a Red orb solid and dark like blood. I see a green orb as green as a perfect emerald. A white orb as new fallen snow, A brown one the color of dried earth. And a yellow one like a topaz."

"I see a man, balding, cloaked in the finest garments, a sword of gold at his side. He is running his hand over the gold and silver one, leering at it, The dragon inside trembles terrified... " Jason snapped out of his vision and said, "I have to help them."

Brom looked at Jason almost pale white "Dragon eggs are you sure?"

"Yes Brom and they are crying for help. I have to go." Jason said as he stood up.

"You can't it's suicide. Galbatorix will tear you apart!" Brom said

"Perhaps but it's my life to risk. Your destiny lay upon a different paths then mine."

Jason stopped when he heard Brom draw his sword as he said, "If someone like you with your ability to scry with out seeing things comes under Galbatorix control, there won't be any stopping him."

"If those dragon eggs hatch for him, there still won't be any stopping him. If just one, or two of those hatch for him, could Eragon and Saphira hold off two dragons and their riders?"

There was a stand off as Brom held his sword draw and Jason's back. Eragon, Murtagh, and Saphira watched these tense moments as Brow drew closer, and then just as Brom entered stabbing range, Jason struck. There using the force he sped up as fast as he could. Grabbing hold of his lightsaber from his belt and started turning around. The blade ignited with the gold and silver glow it had when he struck down Galbatorix's soldiers and there he slashed Brom's sword in two near the hilt. The sight of what Jason did to the sword shocked Brom and before he could utter a word Jason lifted his hand up and force pushed Brom away as a small blue white spark of Force Lightning fired off from the index finger on Jason's hand and struck Brom in the mouth eliminating his ability to speak for a while as he cried out.

The entire thing to Jason lasted 20 seconds, but to Eragon, Murtagh, and Saphira it happened in the blink of an eye. First they saw Brom standing with his sword to Jason's back, there was a flash of light, and then Brom was laying some ten feet away. Saphira instantly was on her feet and with a snarling roar she roared at Jason as Eragon and Murtagh had their katana's ready. Reaching down Jason picked up the blade half of Brom's sword and held it there bringing the piece down to the blade slowly, he carefully cut the blade in half again as Brom watched with wide eyes.

"Brom don't ever draw a weapon on me again, next time I'll take your hand off." Eragon and Murtagh were put off guard as they watched half of Brom's sword fall off and stab into the ground even Saphira recoiled. Jason lowered his saber as he turned it off and they watched the blade return to the handle as Jason hooked it on his belt. And turned to his horse, "Eragon I need you and Saphira to care for something for me. I don't want to risk Galbatorix getting his hands on these Jedi Lightsabers."

Jason pulled out a box and he offered it to Eragon as he said, "The Box is locked and should not open." Eragon looked at Jason with wary eyes "Eragon you know I have to go. If one of those Eggs hatches for Galbatorix...." Eragon looked deep into the eyes of Jason and there Jason felt him brush against his mind and there Jason relaxed his mental barrier to allow Eragon into his mind.

"Eragon I know not this ancient language too well, and I can only tell you this, Death before Dishonor. I will die before I allow Galbatorix to break me into his service."

"Alright, I hope you can do it."

Eragon took the box as Jason said, "Take Raider he'll only be a hinderance. I'll be able to move silently and faster with out him." Jason began sorting his pack and there he said, "The force will be with you Eragon, Mutagh, Brom, And you too Saphira."

******

Jason had left the group with his pack on him. He had emptied it of items as he allowed Eragon and the others had to carry his items. Jason thought back to them and hoped they would continue to Gil'ead. Jason also thought of how to get into the area he saw, he doubted a indirect route could be used and it would be highly reinforced with no secret entrances.

At his running speed, Jason reached Uru'Baen before night fall. Jason cloaked himself using the force as he did all he could to make his presence so small it was unnoticeable. Jason moved carefully through the edge of the city. Unlike Dras'Leona, Uru'Baen was pretty much clean and extremely well cared for. There was how ever no masking the aura of darkness that projected from the castle. The place seemed happy pleasant for the most part but there was an underlying air of fear to the place.

Their where a number of inns, and shops here. He was surprised to find a weapon's shop as well, Slowly Jason had to make his way to the Palace. Unlike Marcus Tabor's Palace in Dras'Leona, This one was massive as it put Tabor's to shame. The walls were high covered in spikes, A fortress with in a fortress city. And in it was well guarded. No way someone would make a frontal assault. As a result Jason did a walk around the castle as night set in. Every sewage grate out of the castle was barred thickly. To prevent them from being opened by would be intruders, and guards posted.

He also sensed a power emanating from the locks and did not want to risk using the force to open them and trip some form of magic alarm. Besides masking the scent of sewage would not make infiltrating the castle easier. So for now Jason moved on. He began to thing where might the King have those six dragon eggs, the highest tower, the deepest dungeon? No Galbatorix would have them close to him, it would be in a room off of his private chambers, close to Shruikan's chambers. "This will be fun." He said to himself and took hold of his Lightsaber and started moving to the main gate. It was normally closed but Jason smiled as fate offered him away in. He saw a couple of wagons carrying food supplies for the castle and so Jason, moved up slowly and carefully with the wagons.

The guards had stopped the wagons and he listened to the guards ask questions of the contents and then the guards gave a whistle as helpers from inside began to leave through the opened gate. There when they left to inspect the crates and bags, Jason took this opportunity to approach the door of the gate and there trusting in the Force Jason slipped through the door with out being seen. The exile smiled a bit as he knew from this point on he would need to be ultra careful.

***********************************

Jason had finally gained entrance to the palace and redoubled his cloak. Being so close to Galbatorix was dangerous. He knew not the strength of this king, or his power. Had he been a Sith lord, by now Galbatorix would be lucky to still be alive, but the fact that he had not only remained strong, but gotten stronger had seriously concerned him. He could not sense Galbatorix in the castle, nor Shruikan. He could feel the eggs and something else he could barely identify but the Eggs were his primary concern. Jason had to be extremely cautious and careful to avoid many traps that could be laid here.

Jason's next few days was set to learning the lay of the castle, he was some what surprised that Galbatorix and Shruikan had left the City, he had headed to Dras'Leona early after getting word from the Ra'zac of Eragon, Saphira, Brom, and himself. This gave him time to perhaps get the Dragon Eggs with out tangling with that Mad Man. Finally Jason discovered the private chambers including the Royal chambers.

By passing the locks with the Force, Jason got into the private wing of the castle. The hallway was gelded with gold and silver befitting many monarch and palaces Jason had seen in his universe. Slowly he crept through the wing following the Force and where it was guiding him. His attention shifted as he sensed the Ra'zac in the area and slowly he made his way to a large vaulted, reinforced, and strengthened doorway, guarded by twelve men in heavy armor and nasty looking weapons. The door was large enough for Saphira to fit through as he expanded his senses to the area as he could sense the Ra'zac closing slowly, now he was wishing he had killed them back when he met them.

The walls were thick over five feet thick and he narrowed his eyes, exploring. The wall was strong and reinforced, but there was one area where it was thinner then most and he became to move with an increased speed as he found a doorway that was unlocked. Making sure that no one was in the area he opened it up to find a small storage closet. There stepping inside he closed the door and went to the back. There he felt the wall and took his time examining it as it was reinforced with metal bars to prevent someone from just pushing the stones in to gain access but Jason drew his lightsaber and stuffed a cloth at the bottom of the door to block the light.

Jason then ignited his lightsaber and there he saw the weakest point of the wall with the force and thrust his saber into the wall. The Saber cut through the stone with ease. There he began cutting through the stone and his saber stopped when it met the metal bars. There working hard he channeled the force into his saber to make it burn hotter as the stone around the blade glowed orange hot. Jason cut through the metal bars one at a time as he made a circle slowly cutting out a hole. There he with drew his saber from the stone and turned in off as he used the force to carefully push the large block into the room. He watched it slide out of place he felt it leave the glowing hole. Jason moved it to the side as he crouched down after softly setting the large circular stone cut out down. The stone inside was still glowing orange hot as he then jumped through the hole using the force he flew through the four foot wide hole with out touching the insides. There Jason used the force to pick up the stone once more and slide it back in part way to the hole.

The room was decorated in the best possible items, the finest silks, softest rugs, the finest beddings. A cherry wood desk with hundreds of scrolls in a wall was on display. The stone floor had prevented a fire as Jason walked across the room. He could sense a number of items with magic in it but he also figured that Galbatorix was arrogant enough to believe no one could get this far. So there shouldn't be any wards or alarms.

Jason followed the calls for help as he reached two large doors and there with the Force he moved them open and entered into a large cell like room. On the far end was another door way smaller then the outer door and there Jason moved. With a wave of his hand Jason opened the door and inside he saw the room where he first saw the eggs. Each one pristine and caged. The cages were large enough to put a human hand through, but not pull the eggs out. Jason started at the right far end and there he used the force to bend and tear the cage open as he pulled out the white Dragon Egg, next came the yellow dragon egg, followed by the brown one.

The red, emerald, and gold and silver eggs came out next. Jason had put them in his pack. Jason had just finished packing them when he felt a shiver run down his spine as he turned to the door and there were the Ra'zac with over forty soldiers. The Ra'zac had discovered him as Jason held his pack with one hand and draw his lightsaber with the other. He had all six and now he had to escape with his life. The gold and silver blade ignited as he used the force to speed up to match the Ra'zac's speed. The Ra'zac swung their swords at him as he moved to the right to avoid their slashes. A few drops of liquid from the blade hit his cheek and it began to burn. Jason realized their blades were coated in Sethir Oil, and there he did his best to deal with the pain and neutralize the poison.

The Exile lashed out at The Razac with one swipe of his blade he cleaved the right hand of one Ra'zac clean off. Jason moved hard and fast as he swung the lightsaber at the hip of the remaining Ra'zac and slashed clean through it. Their surprise at his sudden increase of speed and reflexes left them open as they tumbled once more in pain skidding across the floor to the wall. Jason's only desire was to escape now. And he lunges for the guards as they fearlessly held their pikes in place and he lifted his saber hand and used the force to push their legs out from under them as they tripped.

One they were down Jason had leaped over them. During his leap he felt a tug on his pack as a fast lifted spear had caught the bag and put a cut in it. The cut tore open as he watched the white, brown, and yellow dragon eggs fall out hitting the floor. After jumping over the guard her managed to catch the Hole to prevent the last three from falling out as he had to go now. Every instinct in his being told him greater danger was on the way. Jason rushed for the main doors of Galbatorix's room and there with a free hand he lashed out with all his power in the force and they promptly exploded outwards.

A spray of wood, metal, and stone shrapnel flew and impaled the guards on the other end as Jason ran through the door. He could sense the Ra'Zac in hot pursuit. Jason's dash through the castle was short as he found a stained glass window of Galbatorix and with a force push shattered it as he ran through and jumped into the broad daylight. Jason put all his effort into making the longest farthest jump he could as he took to the air. Using the force to help levitate him he flew through the air like a shot well out of the way of archers and walls. He sailed through the air and landed on the ground outside the city walls. Looking back he saw two flying beasts after him as he turned and once more took to running.

He could sense the flying creatures closing as he saw a Hill and angled his direction to it. He had to end this fast he had no idea if Galbatrix was in the area and did not want to tangle with him. As he reached the grassy knoll the exile got to the top and there lunged off as if he was trying to cover more distance and that gave those flying monsters their cue. As he was in the air he spun around as they had sped up to catch him in mid air. He lashed out with his lightsaber as the first of the bat and dragon like monsters met him. A taloned limb impacted his belt as he felt a crunch of metal as he slashed the limb of the Monster off, just as it had tried to bite his head off making it shriek in pain. There as Jason tumbled he lashed out slashing through the wing membrane of the creature and it instantly lost control and started tumbling to the ground as did Jason.

Jason flipped and and slowed his fall just enough so he would not be hurt from such a great height at the end and looking up he saw the second one dive bomb attacking him as Jason leaped up into the air at the monster. Drawing back his saber Jason threw it at the beast as it neared and the saber spun through the air slashing across the chest of the creature making it shriek in pain loosing it's balance and falling from the sky. Jason hit the ground panting out hard as he looked and saw the what had to be an entire garrison of soldiers on horse back after him. Looking to the north Jason bolted as he sensed a way he might be able to loose them. As he Ran determined to either escape his pursuers or die of exhaustion.

The horses were right behind him as he spied woods ahead of him and could sense water. For nearly an hour Jason had run hard and long. There he dashed through the woods as easily as a fleet footed elf could, his speed was unrivaled by the horses as he reached the edge of the river and jumped once more. This time his strength, faded and when he hit the other side he tripped tumbled and fell into the earth. Jason was battered, bruised and sore but alright. He had a few moments to spare as he took his water skin and drank heavy from it swallowing hard. There once his thirst was sated Jason closed his eyes and called upon the force from around him drawing on it to replenish his force reserves to help him further his escape.

Jason stopped shy of draining the area dry it would be weak but it would recover. His strength was only partially recovered as he ran at a normal human speed continuing his flight north away from Uru'Baen.

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Jason was growing tired of this game. It had been nearly two weeks since his escape from Uru'Baen, and he was growing annoyed of this cat and mouse game. For nearly two weeks straight Jason had been hunted relentlessly. He'd swore that nearly every soldier in the empire had managed to find his general area. Jason had used the force to keep himself cloaked blending into the back ground as best he could but he had hardly been able to eat or sleep in that time. his strength was wearing thin as were his patients. The soldiers and the Ra'zac were in the chase, if he did not find away to escape he would pass out soon. Jason had managed to find a small cave where he retreated into setting his pack down to inspect the eggs. He had three, the gold and silver one, the red one, and the green one. He carefully ran his hand over them and a tear escaped his eye as he said to each one, "I will do my best to ensure your safety." Jason began to repair his pack to make sure the hole was stitched and repaired strongly.

There he made a small basket so the eggs could settle down an a nest like area. Jason looked out into the darkness which was to him clear as day. He once more picked up his belt computer and inspected the damage to it, three times he tried to summon the Ebon Hawk, each time the transmitter failed. The beast had crushed the transmitter he could not contact the Hawk. It would be the one thing that could get him out of this mess and it was beyond contact. He could repair it, but did not have the tools to do so. Jason placed it back on his belt and closed his eyes as he attempted to meditate to restore his strength and power.

Jason's strength restored slowly as his mind reached out listening to everything around him, about and hour into his meditation Jason felt a presence near him, making him open his eyes softly. He saw nothing as he looked around and then once more closed his eyes to appear to be in meditation as he held his lightsaber tightly. A moment later he felt the same presence but much stronger and closer. Now he could make it out, soft, and ancient. Innocent and benevolent. And then as h opened his eyes her heard a soft rattle.

Looking over at the Dragon Eggs he watched as one, the Silver egg with gold streaks move. A soft chirp escaped from inside as it moved more firmly and the first crack appeared on it. It was hatching. Jason watched the egg as more cracked appeared on it and there he opened his eyes as the egg shattered, and the small metallic creature came out of the Egg. The size of a small cat Jason marveled at it watching as the hatchling was as long as his arm. It was squawking softly as Jason could feel it. His situation had just gotten much more complicated. There the dragon licked it's wing membranes clean as it slowly stood up and on unsteady legs began to approach him.

The hatchling had a metallic sliver body with marks of gold upon it, The top of the snout, and forehead had large scales of golden color. The side of the face had gold bands over the eyes and under it, as did the lips. The throat, belly and under side of the tail hand golden scales. A similar pattern was on the legs. The back of the dragons neck and back had a wonderful golden scale pattern from it and the wings as they stretched out the front had had gold to it, the back third, or fourth part of the wings had silver membranes. Timidly Jason reached out with his left as he whispered, "Easy there little one, I'm not going to hurt you, I saved you from Galbatorix." the hatchling came up as it sniffed lightly to the hand offered and there as Jason lifted his hand up he watched as the young dragon touched the palm of his left hand, and then he was struck.

Jason felt a surge of power rush through him as if his strength had been replenished. His hand burned like fire as he could neither pull away or fight it. So he simply endured, the pain and energy flooded through him as he felt the pain vanish as he could hear the mighty roar of a dragon and there came a weight of another mind, so oppressive, so massive he knew he was being linked with his dragon. There the frenzy subsided as he felt himself and the dragon's mind, and was aware of the dragon hatchling's hunger. Hungry himself Jason opened his eyes as he steadied himself as he struggled to regain his sense of emotional balance and he opened his food pack and pulled out the last half pound of dried meat he had.

Breaking it up he made it small mouthfuls for the little dragon as he could feel his hand itching and as he offered the food into his left hand he saw in the middle of his palm a mark similar to Eragon's hand, save Eragon's was silver. His looked like it had just been branded in place, slowly it was turning silver. Still the little dragon ate the food as it chirruped. There bothered by the noise Jason extended his mind to the dragon of the need and importance to remain quiet. It took a few tries but as it ate the meat his dragon realized that there was danger around.

After eating enough meat to make it's belly bulge. Jason dared not waste the new found strength that he had. He would have to get to Brom and fast. Whatever they were searching for, Jason hoped that after all this time they had found it, he needed help.

Jason carefully put the shells of the hatched dragon in the bag and the eggs as well. As the hatchling looked at Jason as he carefully picked up the dragon to put it in the bag it started to squirm as he once more made contact and impressed upon it in images and emotions of the seriousness of this situation. Jason managed with some reluctance to get his dragon hatchling into the bag and carefully curl up as Jason put his pack on.

Securing it tightly Jason took hold of both his sabers as he was now irrevocably tied into the destiny of this land. Jason thought with some amusement to his dragon. "You picked the most inopportune time to hatch, could you not have waited a few days?" Jason did not expect a reply but there was an indignant mental squawk he felt from his companion.

Jason closed his link to the dragon and there in the black of night Jason tore off through the forest. His black robes making him appear as a shadow as he knew the Force could sustain him. But physically he was running on empty, and needed to get to Eragon and Saphira soon. Jason had he been prepared to fast he would have been able to survive longer but most of his meager supplies from the hawk were gone, protein supplements, energy pulls. All had been exhausted, and the supplies he had taken with him would not sustain him and his dragon now. The Night was Jason's Friend as he raced across the ground struggling to avoid troops as he saw them.

He used every trick in his book, weaving a pattern of distractions and illusions as he managed to weave confusion and chaos in the soldiers and carefully placed he made a hole in their net how ever small and he slipped through it. After a while he was free and had left his enemies in a tangled mess, hopefully with a few hours to spare it would take them that long to realize that he was no longer in their trap and that he had eluded them. Still he kept running for a good couple of hours His new found strength was fading fast as he looked around some rocky forested areas. Jason Loathed to kill with the force but he had no choice. Once he was farther away he would hunt for food, not only for himself but his dragon as well.

****

It took a good while before Jason was sure he had finally at long last eluded his persuaders. He had done all he could to cover his tracks and use his strength as best he could effectively. Finally Before setting out hunting he did his best to sense where Eragon and Saphira were. He closed his eyes and reached out for them. He sensed the direction they were in and he could also sense Murtagh, Brom, and someone else, someone who needed help. Jason opened his eyes as he felt his bag squirm and out came the head of his little dragon.

The hatchling was insistent that he get out of the bag and so Jason knelt down and allowed the little one to get out. There Jason watched as the dragon stretched it's legs and wings flapping them a few times before scampering off some. Jason simple smiled and allowed the dragon to take care of it's business as Jason opened his mind to explore the area where Eragon was. It looked like they had gone to the desert, he sensed them to the east heading deeper into the desert. Jason sensed he was also with in three day's travel of them if he ran through the day and night.

Jason looked at his dragon as it came back and the dragon quivered in fear some as Jason reached down to rub it's head, "I'm sorry for what I said to you, Please we have to go." Jason opened up his back and the small dragon climbed inside as he rubbed against his hand and there Jason looked to the east as he once more drew upon the Force and ran. For an hour Jason ran like the wind as he reached the edge of a river Running faster then he had ever run before and then with one mighty last leap he force jumped once more across the river bank.

Jason once more felt his strength fail as he began to fall and there he tucked the bag in his body and protected it with the Force. His physical endurance had once more exhausted him as he rolled and tumbled. He felt the fear of the hatchling and struggled against it to keep his strength, as he rolled and came to a indignant heap on the ground and just laid there for a while, on his back. Jason had felt this way before during the Mandalorian wars, he did all he could to push those terrible memories out of his mind, sometimes fighting constantly for days and weeks on end. Running, hiding ambushes. Reaching up he felt his face and the mark on it caused by the Sethir Oil. He would need to tend it later as it had left a nasty scar.

Jason had been drawing on the force almost constantly for a month now, never before had he done so which he knew what the reason for his fatigue. Coupled with physical exhaustion he needed time to recover, time to stop channeling the force to give his body a rest. To recover it's strength naturally. Jason felt the squirming of his dragon as the little crawled out of the back and looked into Jason's eyes with love and affection. Jason reached up to rub the head and horns of his dragon. There the dragon laid down on his chest as he rested and collected his thoughts and energy.

He felt a thrilling run through the dragon as he said, "Perhaps Saphira or Brom will know if you are male or female. Then I can start to think of some names you might like little one." he felt the dragon nuzzle his chin as he slowly got up there Jason centered himself as his dragon slipped into his carry bag and said "This is indignant for one such as you."

Jason felt the dragon accept it as it seemed to insist on keeping it's head out. Jason took the time to refill his water skin and give his dragon and himself long drinks before he turned to the desert and headed in pursuit of his friends. Jason could not sustain his speed as he soon felt the heat of the desert. He had lifted the black hood of his robes to help him gather the heat.

Most would claim one to be mad to enter a desert with black upon them but in truth Jason loved the heat. He could use the force to ward off the extreme heat as he made his direction to his friend. Jason had been born on a desert world, cold did not entirely bother him, but he loved heat. It was why he always dressed in black. The heat of the desert was pal compared to the inferno he was used to.

*******

Two days into his journey Jason knew he could not catch up with the group, and there dropping to his knees he seized the only thing he could he drew upon the last vestiges of his strength in the force. And there he called out, "Eragon, Saphira, Hear me. Eragon, Saphira." and there with the force sent a message to them in hopes they would answer.

Eragon, Brom, Murtagh and Saphira had stopped to rest at a watering hole that Eragon had made and was holding the water up. Just as Saphira was about to take her own drinks her head as well as Eragon's shot behind them. "Jason! Saphira, Go get Jason he may be hurt!" Saphira on impulse had already crouched down and was in the air with one mighty stroke of her wings as Brom cursed. He made Saphira be wary of an ambush by the king's soldiers, and land only if Jason was alone.

Jason remained kneeling in place as he watched and waited there in the distance he saw Saphira. How her Blue Scales shined and shimmered with the sun, she was a jewel, as beautiful as the Ankarres Sapphire. No more so as he watched her fly and he petted the head of his dragon stroking and rubbing it's head as he wondered how long it would take for his dragon to reach the size of Saphira. Today would be the first flight on dragon back he took, and he longed for when the time would come he could sit astride his dragon.

For the first time in his life Jason felt young once more as if he still had time and all the world ahead of him. There he watched to surprise her and pushed his dragon's head back into the bag as Saphira came close. And there he watched her circle him once, before moving into a land. She was wary as he had closed himself off and there he lifted up his hand and asked her, "Promise me not to tell Eragon or the others I wish to surprise them." she blinked in confusion as she saw Jason open his hand and show her the gedwey ignasia, there Jason once more put his fingers to his lips as the head of his dragon poked out of the bag he was carrying. Saphira had jerked back in surprise when the hatchling had popped it's head out of the bag, "Saphira, I need help."

Saphira came close as she laid on her belly and there Jason weakly came over and slowly mounted on her back. He had wanted his first ride to be with his dragon, but this was the safest way to travel as he spoke, "Please tell them, I am starving and parched." Saphira nodded as she felt him situate on her back as best he cook and with one mighty flap of her wings she was Air born as Jason closed his eyes and enjoyed the ride.

The ride was brief as Eragon, Murtagh, and Brom were waiting. There as Saphira landed they ran up as Brom asked, "Barely escaped with your life eh, fool...." His words were cut off when Jason's bag jerked and started to thrash about. All three moved back as they watched a gold and silver dragon hatchling force it's way out of the bag. Brom froze as they all watched the little hatchling fall indignantly to the ground. There it got on it's feet and seemed to squawk and growl indignantly at Jason. "Guess the cat's out of the bag on that one. Who puts cats in bags anyway. Cats hate that." and slowly he started to dismount as Brom and Eragon rushed up to help support Jason as they started to get those black clothes off of him, "You got them, you got...." Brom said before Jason cut him off.

"Three of the six eggs Brom, I only escaped with three. A soldier's spear cut my bag and I lost three of the six in the Castle. I have two with me, the third you can guess what happened." and he lifted up his Left hand to show the Shining palm he had which had finally turned to silver. There they helped Jason against a rock as his dragon came over hoping and bounding away from they others as Jason rested, "I have other lighter clothes in my bags." There he saw Raider with a large pack on him and over his black frame was the white over robe from his Jedi Ceremonial robes to help protect Raider from the heat.

There as some food was brought to Jason he first fed his near starving dragon and made sure he the dragon had plenty to drink as well the scaled were so bright they easily reflected sunlight as Eragon watched as Saphira came closer and the little dragon looked up at Saphira with blinking eyes as the little dragon Sniffed and jerked back some lightly growling at Saphira and she stood on Jason's lap and lashed out with the wings and hoped growling. Saphira pulled back and made a soft coughing sound as he realized she was laughing.

"She is a fine little dragon, although you will have great trouble returning her to that hand bag."

Saphira said mentally with disdain. Jason held a firm hand on the bag which had the remaining dragon Eggs in it.

"It was the fastest and safest way to get her here Saphira." Finally after Jason had eaten Brom came up to his side.

"Let's see these two remaining eggs you managed to wrestle away from Galbatorix." He said

Jason looked at Brom as if to say back off, "I believe you have someone else who requires more attention then I do. The Eggs will not vanish in the time it takes to care for her. Eragon did you find what you were searching for at Gil'ead?"

"In route, we found a prison Caravan in route, Galbatorix was having a prisoner transported. we stumbled upon each other by accident, and after fighting a Shade which we failed to kill. We found the girl from my dreams in the prison wagon being escorted to Uru'Baen, to Galbatorix. She's an Elf, her name is Arya. We are heading to the Varden so they can save her." Eragon explained. "Do you think...." Eragon was about to ask.

"No I have not the strength Eragon. Ever since arriving in Alagaesia, I have been almost constantly using my powers, whether to remain hidden in Dras'Leona, Healing Brom and you, running to Uru'Baen and my escape there of, I'm exhausted Eragon. I have not the endurance. I need time to rest and recover."

Eragon closed his eyes as the sun was finally starting to set as Jason leaned back stroking the head on his dragon and though as he looked to Brom who finally Asked, "Well you ever gonna show us the two Eggs you got left?"

"Yes, I'm sorry I failed to protect the other three, I shall not fail these two." there Jason very slowly opened his bag and allowed the Red and Green Dragon eggs to be seen. Saphira, Eragon, Brom and even Murtagh came over to look. Looking at Murtagh as he said, "Come closer Murtagh, come see them." Jason watched as Brom ran his hand over both of them and he looked at Jason.

"You have done the Varden an invaluable service, Jason."

"Perhaps more then you know Brom. I recall you claiming that A dragon will only hatch if it feels or senses the presence of it's Rider correct?"

"Aye, I did."

Jason looked over at Murtagh as the dark haired boy blinked and there pulled back, as Eragon and Brom looked at him as did Saphira. Murtagh looked at them and swallowed hard, "Come now, you can't believe that for one moment, one of those Eggs would hatch for me do you?"

"We shall see Murtagh. But I shall be more surprised if one does not hatch for you."

Murtagh swallowed hard as he looked at the Red and Green eggs almost scared of them. Jason spoke to Murtagh as he asked, "Why do you fear the Eggs Murtagh?"

"I don't fear them." he said as he looked at Jason.

"Then come closer, feel them. Let them know you are here. It took two weeks for my dragon eggs to hatch. Perhaps your Dragon if it is here will hatch for you tonight."

"Murtagh, I learned a few things about you in my travels here in Alageasia. I have this to say to you, and to Brom, Eragon, and Saphira, Listen to my words and listen well. Judge not the children for the sins of their fathers, lest your children be judged for your sins."

"What does that mean?" Saphira asked Jason.

"It means Saphira, Murtagh's father committed terrible crimes. And that many people would love to tear him apart for. Of those crimes I shall not speak, and of who his father is."

Jason petted his dragon softly as he was fighting to stay awake as Murtagh slowly approached the two dragon eggs and there Brom looked at Murtagh then at Jason. Finally Brom said, "Go on. I believe Jason when he says yer paths are tied together. And I promise you this, there is more going on here then any of ya suspect. If one of the eggs hatch for ya, I will tell you all what I can. Circumstances will force it."

Jason watched as Murtagh slowly reached out to caress the eggs with his finger tips, scared as if one would hatch then and there as he ran his fingers over first the Green one then extremely hesitant and reluctant the red one, almost fearful as if it would burn him. Jason looked down as his little Dragon was sleeping in his lap and soon Jason sighed out as he closed the bag holding the two remaining eggs and pulled it close. He could feel Saphira moving close almost protectively, Eragon looked at Jason and there he went over to Ayra. Feeling safe and secure Jason closed his eyes and began to rest.

*****************

That night Jason's mind wandered the length of Alagaesia as it settled in Uru'Baen. There he could sense a rage like the storms of Malachor V, raging, rolling, seething. There he watched Galbatorix in a frenzy, his blood burned, veins in his neck bulged as he screamed. Throwing stuff even casting spells as he destroyed items. There he saw the Ra'zac, their mounts, and one had blood red eyes, maroon red hair and was burning with absolute evil. The Ra'zac, and their mounts as well as this man was terrified of Galbatorix.

He heard little but knew that his rage was directed at them for their failure to save his dragon eggs, slowly after his long venting Galbatorix dropped tiredly into his throne and there he glared at them as he pointed to the door and the scurried out as fast as they could. Beside Galbatorix Jason saw two people, two young boys about the age of Eragon, one fearfully holding a White dragon hatchling, an the other a brown one shaking in terror of Galbatorix's rage.

Jason shed a tear for them, for leaving them in fear, for their shattered dreams.

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The next morning Jason woke to a frenzy as someone was shaking him madly. Brom, Eragon, and Saphira shouted out, "Don't you Die on us." Just as he opens his eyes Jason got the coldest surprise in a long time. As near freezing water what thrown on him, Jason woke up with a start as he yelled out, "What in Galaxy!" he said as his dragon just sat there almost amused as Jason jumped, as Brom and Eragon held him down. He looked over at Murtagh holding a bucket.

Fully awake now Jason looked out at them and commented, "A simple time to get up would have done well enough guys."

"Your heart, we could barely feel it beating." Eragon said terrified.

Jason looked at him then the others, "Ohhhhhhh, I was not dying. I had entered a healing trance." Jason said as he rubbed off his face and stood up slowly stretching, "Slows the body down, allowing me to devote all the energy I have into healing physically." looking around Jason saw breakfast ready and licking his lips starving, Saphira was laying on her belly as Jason's dragon was moving over to her sniffing and murring at the larger female. Saphira murred out as she lowered her head to better inspect the dragon.

"So When will she be large enough to ride Brom?" Jason asked.

"Maybe four or five months, she won't be able to breath fire for five or months." Brom said as Jason got himself food.

"So what did you four talk about last night while we were sleeping? Not about me I hope." Jason said watching as his dragon tried to climb over Saphira. Her wings flapping in the sun as she tried to steady herself on Eragon's saddle. Jason finished his breakfast quickly as he started to get out of the rest of his dark clothes. There Jason was bare save for his briefs and there he heard Eragon's shocked gasped.

"You've been tortured, Just like Arya." Eragon saw Jason's body as he looked over behind his back and spoke.

"No Eragon, I have not been tortured. They are scars of battle. Where I come from Eragon, there were a number of terrible wars. I took part in those wars. What you see is a collection of battle scars spanning oh twenty five thirty years."

"Impressive, you have to have incredible skill to bear so many marks. I can see why you went after the dragon eggs." Murtagh said.

Smiling, Jason said, "More so considering I don't wear armor."

"You must have the speed and reflexes of the Ra'zac then." Brom said.

Jason smiled as he finished putting on his white hood and looked over at Brom. "Perhaps, perhaps not."

Murtagh said "I'm interested in just how you managed to get into the palace, avoid Galbatorix, and get his dragon eggs. I know the place is like a fortress."

Jason smiled, "First Fate smiled on me, for Galbatorix was not there. Second there are methods I have access to, spells if you will, that can not only mask one's presence, but make it so small as to be unnoticeable." Checking the dragon eggs, Jason took the bag they were on and there came up to Saphira. "Saphira I entreat you with these, Guard them well." And there he secured the dragon egg pouch to her saddle nice and tightly as Eragon, Brom, and Murtagh prepared Arya and hitched her to the underside of Saphira's belly.

Jason's dragon came up to him and gave a soft churr as Jason picked her up and placed him on his shoulders. She wrapped around his neck, and blinked looking at Eragon, Brom, and Murtagh. Jason felt a change in Murtagh as he said, "Well Dragon Riders, this is where we part ways, I wish you luck on your mad journey to the Varden, I won't go with you."

"Why not?" Eragon asked.

"Because I can't go to the Varden, they wouldn't trust me. Our friend here, Jason, If he's right and one of those Dragon eggs hatch for me, I'll be in even more danger. It's best if I leave now."

"Murtagh don't go please?" Jason plead with him.

"Why should I stay." Murtagh said glaring at the Jedi. "You have no idea how much danger I am in."

"Jason!" Brom said sharply as in warning.

"Because Murtagh, I know you and Eragon must be together. Brom what direction are we going in?"

"South to the Beor Mountains."

"What lays between the Mountains and the area leading to the Varden."

"Forests."

"Murtagh I ask only that you travel with us to those forests, then you may go where you wish."

"And if one of those eggs hatch for me?" he says looking scornfully at Jason.

"Regardless of what happens, if you choose to stay with us or go on your own. We won't stop you. But Murtagh, if you come with us, I won't help the Varden if they punish the child for the sin's of their father. If they are willing to punish you for the transgressions of your father, then to me, they are as evil as Galbatorix.

Murtagh looked to Eragon as he just looked at Murtagh confused then to Brom for guidance. Brom looking between the three, said, "Aye, I know who his father is. There are reasons I have not shared it, reasons I will keep to my self."

"Let Murtagh be judged for his own actions. Come time to go." Jason said as he took his horse and began to head south. "If Murtagh wishes to leave, let him. Arya's life is in danger." Jason looked with in himself as he once more drew upon the the Force. He could not shield them from all the heat, but he could help shield them from the more extremes. Beside Jason rode Eragon and Brom. Soon he could feel Murtagh join them as Murtagh rode his way between him and Brom.

"So, Tell me more of how you are sure of my destiny and Eragon's being tied together." Murtagh said.

"That is a very difficult subject, one that would take a while to explain." Jason said.

"Brom how far are we from The Beor Mountains?" Eragon asked.

"A good month at least." Brom Answer.

Looking left looking right Jason said, "Curses, foiled again by simple logic." he said with a chuckle, "Alright Alright, I will tell you what I can. I promise."

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It had taken three days of riding for Jason to explain some of his powers and how he knew that Murtagh's destiny and Eragon's destiny were involved. Much to Brom's relief Jason had not shared the fact they were brothers. Each night Jason had taken the Dragon Eggs from Saphira to let them both get air, and sunlight. As the sunset the tension between Eragon and Murtagh had vanished more or less. Eragon accepted Murtagh for who he was, not who he was the son of. Not that it had come out.

Jason had also taken the time to attempt to heal Arya and failed. What ever poison she had been given was beyond his ability to negate. Slowly he learned from Brom some of the things Eragon had been taught of magic. The rules, and methods used. On the night of the fourth night, as Jason was playing with his dragon much the the amusement of the others, Jason's focus failed allowing her to bite the meat from his hand that he had been making her jump to get, both for play, but exercise as well. Jason turned his head and looked to the Dragon Eggs, his focus was locked sorely on the Red egg.

All eyes shot from Jason to the eggs. There Murtagh paled as he watched the Red Dragon egg wiggle. It rocked once, as Eragon moved close to Saphira. Brom and Murtagh moved a bit away from each other. As it rocked once more. Jason's Dragon which had increased in size to almost twice what her first size had been, thanks to all the hunting Saphira had done getting some wild animals. The red egg once more rocked as Jason watched the first cracks showed.

The egg once more wiggled as soon the Dragon inside finally broke through the Egg. With a loud squawk, the egg was shattered as a Ruby Red Dragon burst into the world. Jason could sense the fear from Murtagh as he looked over him and there his own dragon stood on her hind legs watching her younger counter part as the hatchling began to groom it's wings. Murtagh looked at Jason and then Brom.

Brom closed his eyes as he he said, "Seems Jason was right about ya." there The Red dragon looked around First at Arya, then Brom and finally at Murtagh. The young hatchling slowly stood up as it chirruped at Murtagh and there lifted up on it's hind legs as it spread it's wings and began to waddle over to him carefully approaching.

"Your destiny is at hand Murtagh." there Lifting his right hand up he made a pushing motion as he fell on his rear as the dragon hatchling came closer. There in an attempt to push the dragon away his hand made contact with the snout of the dragon and there was a flash of light as Murtagh was knocked out. He had screamed out in both fear and terror at the shock. Murtagh was quivering in fear as Jason went over to carefully rub his head and hair, "Shhhhhh, It will be alright young one. This is not the end, merely a beginning." he said calling upon the force to calm Murtagh as his dragon looked at Jason and gave a growl at him. The ruby red dragon then nestled down beside Murtagh as Jason's Dragon came up to inspect the fellow hatchling. Murtagh's Dragon was half the size of Jason's as the two looked at each other.

Finally when Murtagh had calmed down to rest Jason came over and sat down as his dragon hopped into his lap. "Brom it is time Eragon and Saphira should know it all. Brom doesn't matter if Eragon is ready or not. They have to know." He watched Brom give a large heavy sigh as he looked once more at Murtagh.

"Alright Eragon, Alright seems fate is has forced my hand. First off there was a reason why I haven't told you this. Yer not ready for it, but all that now is moot. And you'll most likely end up hating me for it as well. But I want yer promise that you'll not say nor do anything till I am entirely finished understand, You too Saphira. In the ancient Language, Promise me you two will do nothing and say nothing until I am finished."

Just as Eragon was about to speak Jason spoke up, "No not in the ancient language, Give Brom your word of honor in this language. When a Dragon Rider give their word of honor, regardless of the language it is spoken in, they should consider it as binding as if it had been spoken in the ancient language."

Eragon looked to Jason as Saphira and he both promised their honor.

"Alright, Here is the reason I did not tell you of Murtagh's father, You and Murtagh have the same mother, but different fathers. Murtagh is your half brother Eragon." Eragon's eyes went wide in shock and worry. Saphira's head also jerked up and back as her mouth hung open as she looked between Murtagh and Eragon. "The reason I did not tell you of Murtagh was I never expected him and you to meet. In fact I never expected Murtagh to survive to adult hood."

"That is why I did not tell you of Murtagh's Father. You or Saphira most likely would have killed Murtagh once you learned who he is the son of, then later, find out he is your half brother which I knew. You'd never have forgiven me Eragon, for allowing you to kill your own brother."

Watching as Eragon registered shock, even Saphira was shocked as she learned these things as Brom continued. "Now Eragon, your father is an enemy of the Empire. He's remained hidden for a long time. That is the reason why your mother left you in Carvahal, to protect you. Because if the Empire discovered this man. They would capture him and torture him, perhaps worse then Arya was tortured to get the secrets of the Varden. He's a strong man and would not give them anything and would die before betraying the Varden to Galbatorix. But if the Empire discovered he had a son, captured him. Then yes he would break, could you have endured watching the torture of Garrow, or Arya. No, and watching you be tortured he would have given Galbatorix anything he wanted to spare you that."

Eragon listened to Brom as he processed what Brom told him fully as Eragon looked over to Murtagh. "I think I understand Brom. Who is Murtagh's Father?"

Hesitantly Brom said. "Morzan, First and last of the Forsworn."

That piece of information rocked Eragon and Saphira. Both of them jerked and recoiled from the shock of it. Jason held his saber tight as Eragon looked at Brom disbelieving and in shock. It took only a few moments for Murtagh to lift up as he turned to face Eragon, "We're brothers?!" Murtagh looked at Eragon as he was still in shock, took only a few moments for him to get on the back of Saphira, and with a shout Eragon Said, "Just go!" And with one stroke of those mighty wing Eragon took off on Saphira's back into the night sky.

Watching as Eragon took off with Saphira, Jason said, "Handled that better then I expected." Jason said with a smile. "Well after what he's been told a good night flight will do him some good."

"Do you find this amusing Talben?" Brom said accusingly.

"Nope, it's just the irony does not escape me, it's not the first time I have seen fate throw those destined for greatness a loop like this. Although I would have expected Eragon to be Galbatorix's Son. Not an enemy of the Empire.

"So what about me, what are you going to do with me?" Murtagh asked.

"Keep my promise. When we reach the forests at the foot of the Beor Mountains, you may continue onwards with us to the Varden. Or head off on your own and attempt to avoid the coming war and agents of Galbatorix. Both choices have their consequences. First if you continue with us onto the Varden, I will tell the Leaders of the Varden, and their allies that should any harm come to you, or your dragon, I shall not help them. Eragon as your brother...."

"Eragon is damned by being so..." Murtagh said his eyes welling with tears. Jason could feel the fear, rage, and sadness in him.

"When Brom tells the leaders of the Varden of how Eragon was raised. Having had no influence by Galbatorix or Morzan. They might at first be suspect of him, but knowing that by harming you, they could never fully trust Eragon, nor Saphira. All their hopes will rest on the Emerald Dragon Egg. Which might not hatch for decades. And if they do, they might as well march out of the Boer mountains and Surrender to Galbatorix now, I doubt the Varden would risk everything over one petty act of revenge."

"There some among the Varden who would." Brom said,

"They will have to come through me to do so Brom."

"And what would I face on my own?" Murtagh questioned.

"Wild animals, inhabitants of these forests, slavers perhaps. You would also lack any guidance of any form on teaching. You would be going blind. And you could end up delivered to Galbatorix, or the Varden. With out our protection, if they realize who you are, they would kill you. Again when we reach these woods you may follow your own path. Join us to the Varden, or leave. Know this if you leave us, if you are captured by Galbatorix, he'll force you to fight your own brother. The choice is yours and yours alone Murtagh. Just be aware of what those choices can and will bring. I will not force you to choose, to do so, I may as well call you slave, and I your master. I am master of no man, or beast, nor will I stand by and allow any one else to force a choice upon you."

Jason said as pure fact. Murtagh looked into Jason's eyes as if to find some form of deception and after a while he stopped and just slumped to the rock he was resting upon. Jason's Dragon at that point pulled out of his lap from which she had settled and there came over to Sniff the red hatchling. There as the two once more sniffed and began to get to know each other Jason's Dragon, suddenly pounced Murtagh's dragon as the two had been forced to play fight in Murtagh's Lap.

Murtagh gave a yelp as his lap became the center of a play fight as he struggled to extract himself from a ball of red, gold and silver. Jason gave laugh as Murtagh stood up and brushed himself off. Jason's Dragon was a larger for the hatchling and took little effort to pin it's sibling. There Jason smiled as he watched as his dragon stood there wagging her tail and chirruping proudly at her first conquest. After the play fight the red hatchling came up to Murtagh and began to call out as Brom explained it was hungry.

Jason watched as Murtagh fed his dragon and it settled down once more into his lap to rest. There Jason turned eyes skyward as he saw a Saphira cross in front of the moon.

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Eragon and Saphira had returned the Next morning just before day break. The two had been tense as they approached wary. Saphira's landing had awoken Brom and Murtagh, as had the dragons. They came bounding up to Saphira, Jason's Dragon instantly began nuzzling Saphira's right front leg happy she was back. The Murtagh's Dragon was more cautious in it's approach. In Saphira's mighty jaws was a large animal, it was not possible to tell what it was as Saphira had eaten half of it at least. There she eyed the Red Dragon, then Murtagh as she sat the carcass down.

Jason's Dragon yelped in surprise and pleasure as it began eating from the animal with eagerness. Slowly Saphira licked her lips clean of blood as she lowered her head to the dragon and the two began to get to know each other. As Saphira was getting to know the hatchling Eragon slowly climbed down from Saphira's back. As he looked between the three and slowly approached Jason. "You were right, Saphira and I are not ready for somethings. I don't know what to do...."

Jason lifted his hand an said, "Now you see why Brom and I keep secrets. You are still young Eragon, in time all your questions will be answered. Of that I have no doubt."

"You have the Wisdom equal to the wisest Dragon Riders Talben." Brom said and there Jason felt a rush of pride at that.

"I just hope I match your expectations as a student." Jason said making Brom's eyes light up and there the old man said.

"You already exceeded them."

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The next three days had been at a hurried pace. They had started moving before sunrise and made good time settling at night. Jason's Dragon was now strong enough to fly high with Saphira on long stretches before needing to land Murtagh's Dragon was rapidly catching up to the slightly older dragon. Jason's playful struggles with his dragon was making her strong as he was forcing her to work out. As for naming his Dragon Jason had said he will name her when she picks a name she likes and not before.

Murtagh's Red dragon by the end of those three days was able to wrestle with and hold his own against the other hatchling. During the Three days Jason and Murtagh were getting the basics of being Dragon Riders down. Jason had Hit upon the idea of Eragon instructing them. So he could review Brom's lessons, and so Brom would know if he had learned.

There was also much talk between Murtagh and Eragon. Eragon wanting to know of his, or rather their mother, and Murtaghs life with Morzan. Eragon was shocked and appalled at Murtagh's life unable to comprehend how Mozan had been able to be so cruel to his own son. Going so far as to throw his sword Zar'rac at Murtagh splitting him open from his shoulder across his back, and down his hip.

When the Group settled down at night Jason was looking out over the desert worried about what he felt. With out warning he spun around and caught The Katana he had give Eragon. He saw Brom holding his own sword as he spoke the spell to place protective wards on it to protect the edge of the blade. Looking at his sword and seeing it with out the wards he placed his fingers on the edge and there felt the energy he had gotten from his dragon more strongly as Jason said, "Geuloth du knifr!" the blade took on the protective barrier as Jason Stood ready and there he spun the sword around in his hand loosing his wrist as he dropped into a Makashi stands, bringing the blade up in front of him he formed an X shaped loop as he presented him self for attack.

There he locked eyes with Brom as the two waited. Jason held his position as Brom said, "Fool for letting!" Brom had tried to talk as he struck at Jason, with one hand Jason brought up the Katana and in a looping curl moved Brom's sword strike out of the way and there as Brom attempted to get his sword into a defensive position, Jason with his free hand struck at Brom's wrist as hard as he could and there disarmed him before bringing his sword edge to the very neck of Brom. Looking at Jason, Brom's eyes opened wide as Jason stepped back to let Brom get his sword.

For nearly an hour Brom and Jason spared together, trading blows and blocking blows at the end of each exchange the result was always the same. Jason's defences had remained unbroken, and Brom was always defeated, disarmed, or both. Brom exhausted removed his barrier on his sword as Jason did the same carefully handing it back to Eragon.

"Only an Elf would have be able to hold me off like that, where did you learn to fight like that?" He asked as Jason sat down and said.

"I learned from many people, Three were Kavar, Vrook, and Zez-Kai Ell. wonderful teachers."

"They trained you well then." Murtagh said, "I know I couldn't match you."

Jason once more looked out to the desert as he said, "Sleep well my friends, for tonight may be our last peaceful night together."

"What does that mean?" Saphira asked aloud to all here.

"I sense danger approaching. Rest while you can." Jason looked to his friends as he went to check on the horses and care for them as well. Using the Force Jason slowly healed their sun burned skins to help ease their discomfort, he also make sure they were well fed and watered. Looking at Saphira, Jason took the last Dragon Egg and firmly tied it to her saddle making sure it could not come off no matter what she did.

Seeing she was awake Jason looked at here with sorrowful eyes and there shared with her a vision of the two hatched dragons. Jason asked her not to share it with Eragon yet, but only to do so should he die. He told her, he knew not if that it was true that they had hatched as it was not just a vision of the future. But that if it was true, it would be unwise for everyone to know about it. It would mean that Galbatorix would perceive he had an advantage over his enemies, when it was not so. He did not ask her to not tell by oath of ancient language, but as a friend.

Saphira promised she would keep it secret as best she could. As she went to sleep Jason looked out to the desert and felt the danger growing slowly. There he knelt down to rest and meditate. There he began to draw on the force to restore and replenish himself, mentally and physically, he also did his best to replenish everyone knowing they would all need their strength.

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The next morning Jason was waking everyone in a hurry, He was struggling with Eragon as Brom and Murtagh was up. There Eragon Shot awake, as he grabbed his katana looking at Jason, "What is it?"

Jason stood up as he pointed in the faint dawn light out into the distance, Jason pointed. There while hard to make out ther they could see a cloud of dust in the distance, "That is what I felt last night. I let you all sleep as much as I could, but we have to go now." Jason was grabbing items and storing them on his pack and his horse. "Leave everything behind you do not need!" Jason watched as his Dragon was prancing around as he looked deep into her mind as he said, "Fly! Fly with Saphira, do not leave her." Murtagh looked at the dust cloud as he saw it come into view with the sun.

"Those are Urgals!" He cried. Pointing to one of the flags and there even his dragon was on alert as he looked around and there he like Jason told his dragon to fly with Saphira. There with Jason's help they got Arya strapped to the underside of Saphira's belly and then when she took off so did the hatchlings. There Eragon, Brom, Murtagh, and saddled up.

Once on their horses, they bolted in the direction of the Varden allowing Brom to lead the way. Jason had managed to get everyone rested and recuperated thanks to his mastery of revitalization. There he kept up his force shield and made it stronger to help ward off the effects of the sun.

No one really had much of a chance to talk as they rode hard and fast through the hottest part of the day. Saphira had kept them apprised of the progress they made staying a head of the Urgals.

Jason was doing everything he could to stay focused, as they rode. He channeled the force as effectively as he could, his reserves were still sorely depleted. Still he knew that by shielding everyone from the most intense of the sun's heat, they could make decent progress.

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For nearly a week, they rode hard and long. The Beor mountains had not only come into view. But so had the forest. Eragon, Murtagh and Saphira had been marveled at the size of the mountains as they raced, pushing their horses at break neck paces. Day and Night, the riding at night had allowed Jason to conserve his power as they covered kilometers in a number of days. Finally as they neared the forest line, Jason's strength just gave out as they stopped so they could water the horses for a short while, "Is it me or did the sun just get stronger?" Eragon said.

"It's Jason, he's used his powers to shield us from the most extreme of the sun's heat." Brom said as he came up to check on Jason, "You better not die on us."

"I have no intention of dying yet Brom." Jason said panting out as he watched Saphira land. As did the hatchlings. The hatchlings had more then doubled in size, and were too large for Jason and Murtagh to carry on their horses now. JAsons' Dragon was the size of a small pony. Murtagh's was two-thirds the size of the older one. Once the dragons were down Saphira instantly began to Dig a massive hole for Eragon. As Murtagh came up and gave the Dragonlings some meat.

"Brom how much farther till we reach the Varden?"

Looking at the forest and the mountains as he said, "If we ride all day and night as fast as possible, we can reach them before dawn tomorrow."

"We ride like this the horses will drop dead from exhaustion!" Murtagh screamed.

Once Saphira had dug the hole with Eragon using his magic to fill it, Jason Said, "No they won't!"

Jason dismounted from Raider as he explained, "I can use the last vestiges of my strength in the force to replenish the horses for one last surge. But I'll have nothing left, it should give us what we need to get to the Varden." Jason said as he looked around and as the horses drank he felt his dragon come up and churr at him worried. There he knelt down to rub her head as she looked at him with those golden eyes of hers.

There Jason looked in himself to once more call upon the force. Feeling it well within him he channeled the energy from around him, as the force flowed through him and he sent the energy into the horses. There he began to restore their strength and Vitality. Strength flowed back into their muscles as the aches, pains, and fatigue began to escape. There as they drank from the water pool they gulped down great amounts of water.

He could not restore them completely, but as they drank and what little food they could eat was given to them from Jason's pack. It had kept up their strength as Jason revitalized them as if they had been able to get a good night's rest. Finally Jason's Strength ebbed and he dropped to his knees spent, a Deep breath was taken as he felt Brom and Murtagh come over to give him a filled water skin. There Jason drank his fill wishing he had the ability to summon the Ebon Hawk. There as Saphira and the hatchlings drank Eragon allowed the magic to recede dropping the water.

"Saphira just told me, these Urgals are bigger then the ones we have seen."

"Bigger?" Brom asked.

"Yes they stand chest and shoulders over a man." Eragon said.

"Kull, I should have known!" Murtagh said. There Brom stabbed his sword into the ground. As Jason got the explanation of what the Kull were, Slowly he Stood up to go to his horse.

"Then we ride, and do not stop till we reach the Varden." Jason said. Eragon approached Jason.

"Your too tired to Ride, Saphira will carry you." He said.

"Don't worry I am not ready to pass out Eragon."

"Brom and I are not giving you a choice." Eragon stated.

Just as Jason turned to asked why, Brom and Eragon both said firmly, "Slytha!" And their combined magic spell hit Jason without warning and there he just fell down sleeping. Murtagh, Brom, and Eragon came over to get Jason as Saphira came over and settled down. There they helped Jason into the Saddle and began securing him.

"You two know he's gonna be angry at you both."

"Aye, but better that then dead. He's right about one thing Murtagh, I won't force you to the Varden. When we hit the forest, you can continue to follow us, or attempt to leave on your own." Brom said tying Jason's wrists to the saddle and there. Saphira took off as the three mounted up.

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Jason was not sure how long he had been out, he knew Brom and Eragon had cast a spell at him and knocked him out. He'd been out for who knows how long and a good portion of his strength had returned after the enchanted sleep he had been put into. For the last hour or so Jason had struggled to bring himself to waking up. Now he had mustered enough willpower to push through the magic and there break it with the force. Finally his eyes opened, as he heard Saphira's voiced in his mind.

"Brom and Eragon are sorry for putting you to sleep. But they feared for your safety if they were over taken by the Kull."

Speaking aloud Jason said, "What's the Situation?!" he said looking around to find himself flying through the Air on Saphira's back, Behind him off to the right and left were the two smaller dragons. Giving a sigh of relief he looked down as Saphira told him that The others had entered the Valley and that Murtagh for better or worse had chosen to go to the Varden, trusting that not only would he, Eragon, Saphira would help protect him, but also Brom. To which Brom agreed. The Kull where right on their heels nearing the entrance to the Varden. To which Saphira was preparing to land. Jason relayed a message to the others telling them of his battle plan.

It was a simple plan, Brom and Murtagh would get the Horses and Dragonlings into the Varden entrance. While he, Saphira and Eragon held off the forces. That with his lightsaber he could easily handle the Kull. Brom had tried to argue, but Jason told him it was not a choice. Jason hopped off Saphira drawing his Lightsaber as He took up a position on Saphira's right side with Eragon on her left. There Jason drew and activated one saber as the Kull rushed out of the mists on the rocky shore of the River with a water fall behind them.

Jason turned the gold and silver blade on as he said, "Time to fight." and there Jason rushed forward to meet the Kull in Battle. Surprising Saphira and Eragon, with his speed and reflexes.

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Jason was using the Force to speed up mentally and physically. To him the Kull were slow sluggish brutes, Jason lashed out left and right as weapons were swung at him. Some Jason chose to avoid, others he removed. His saber lashed through the metal and wooden weapons. Hands flew off their owners, Jason was trying to make a spectacle of this. Not to be a show off, but to Show the Kull and Urgals that fighting was hopeless. Jason did not limit himself to the removal of limbs, but he also took off heads, and bisected them. Kull being so large made it difficult to inflict injury.

Jason lashed out as he would dash in front of a Kull as it would swing his hands down as Jason would then leap up bringing his saber up between the legs and middle of the Kull's Body. The Saber perfectly cleaved through armor, flesh, and bone easily. Allowing the now bisected Kull to drop to the ground dead. Jason's slashes and stabs were perfectly timed to destroy weapons and kill with one or two strikes to minimize pain and suffering. In the space of half a minute Jason noted that the Urgals and Kull were trying to get distance from him lobbing spears and shooting arrows at him as they tried to avoid his reach.

As a Spear flew at him Jason used the force, grabbed a hold of it, turned it around and hurled it as fast as he could throw it at at two Kull. The Spear not only impacted the first Kull, but went clean through him and into the Kull behind him. Some of them had gotten past Jason and to both Eragon and Saphira, Arrows were deflected out of the sky, with a wave of his hand, Urgals knocked back, Kull where grabbed hold of by the force and hurled into their fellows.

Jason had noted something, something very odd. By now it should have been clear that they could not win. And retreat should have been clear, He sensed the blood lust and rage of these beings, but it seemed unnatural, imposed, as they felt the need to fight. Jason knew that some how they were being forced by some measure of mind control.

"Jason! The doors to the Varden are opening, Fall back!"

He heard Brom say as Jason began to extract himself as a hail of arrows began shooting from the mountain side shooting down the Urgals and Kull allowing him to move back into the water fall, there he waited for Saphira to head in side the water fall and when a Kull rushed him he gave a good swift Force push to it's legs as it fell to the ground on it's face as a mass of arrows just covered it's back. There Jason got to the water fall, turned his saber off and leaped through the door way.

His senses instantly told him there was danger and he readied the weapon for reactivation. There he saw a number of people lead by a bald man covered in tattoos he could sense a tenseness in everyone as Jason watched Brom and there he held his saber tightly using the force to conceal the other half on his person. There Jason saw Brom being held by the bald man as he had a dagger pressed to his throat as Eragon was addressed directly, "Stop! If you use Magic, I'll kill this old fool, and don't think I won't know if you are drawing upon it. He was also kind enough to tell us you three are Dragon Riders as well."

Jason was able to sense the intent of this man, dark, cold, calculating. He'd slit Brom's throat without a second thought. As Eragon tried to speak he shouted pressing the dagger to Brom's neck drawing some blood. "None of that! If you say or do anything I don't tell you to, he will die. Now, everyone inside."

There Jason lowered the emitter of his saber down and began to follow as he looked at Him, Murtagh, and Eragon with murderous intent. Jason had closed his mind tightly to prevent stray thoughts from entering his mind and blocked all contact except for his dragon which he was aware of struggling in the hands of guards there Jason used his thoughts to calm his dragon as she snarled and growled at the men.

There Jason and the rest were lead deeper into the place. As the door behind them closed. Jason's mind was looking around the place wondering how to protect his friends with out harming people.

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Jason noted that Arya had been put on Saphira's back as the horses were lead down another tunnel while the Bald man kept Brom from talking. Jason could sense Eragon becoming more and more desperate to get Arya help. Slowly they were lead into a chamber as Jason examined his surroundings, The polished white marble room reminded him of a meditation chamber. The marble was so polished it was almost like mirror. There Jason watched as Brom was held tighter, as a short beared man looked at him and said, "It's Brom!"

Jason looked over the smaller man as the beard and axe, Stout, strong, muscular. From the physiology Jason concluded he had to have been a dwarf. Just like Brom had described to Eragon. There he watched the confrontation from Bald Man, "It could be an imposture made to look like Brom...."

"One way to find out. Bring Ale." He said in his guff tone.

Jason could sense his temper boiling to the surface as he was loosing control of the situation, his anger only increased as the distraction made by the Dwarf emboldened Eragon to shout out, "There isn't time! We need a Healer!" Eragon interjected.

The Tattooed man Roared out in anger and rage as he was loosing total control, "Silence! Your words are meaningless until you are examined!"

"She's Dying!" Eragon yelled in anger tighten his grip on his drawn Katana. Jason looked at the Dwarf as he said to a guard, "Wash his right hand!" He looked at Arya on Saphria's back.

"Are you blind, Egraz Carn? Can't you see that's an Elf on the dragon? We cannot keep her here if she's in danger. Ajihad and the King will have our heads if she is allowed to die!" The Dwarf shouted.

As Broms hand had been washed Jason saw the same mark that he, Eragon, and Murtagh shared. "It is Brom!" the guard said as Jason could sense the rage building in the bald one to a near peek. It was taking every ounce of control he had to keep from doing something drastic. There he settled down as he let go of Brom an he pulled away. There he used his magic to heal his throat as Brom pointed to two men at Saphira.

"Take her now." Brom said taking command of the situation.

As two men sheathed their swords an came up to Saphira with some hesitation Eragon said, "She was poisoned with the Skilna Bragh while in prison. Only Tunivor's Nectar can save her now."

One of the Men who had inspected her face cried out, "It's the Dragon-egg courier, Arya!" one shouted out as they begane to hurry to her aid.

The bald man turned to look almost in fright as he stared at her.

"Well Brom, what next?" Jason asked to him placing his saber on his belt.

Brom looked over to the men holding onto the dragons. "Release them now. Now I need to speak with Ajihad and King Hrothgar about you three. Eragon I know you want answers they will have to wait. I need you three to stay here where I know you will be safe. Orik."

On Brom's command Jason's and Murtagh's Dragons were set free as they ran over to them. Orik came up to Brom as he said, "Aye?"

"I need you to post guards here and be sure they are brought good food and drink." Brom turned to Eragon and the others. "I need you all to stay here while I talk with Ajihad and Hrothgar. Jason I need you to stay here, I'll explain later why."

Jason bowed "Of course." There they looked around as Jason, felt his Dragon stand beside him. Kneeling down . There Brom left Orik with instructions to have the room guarded till they were sent for. Looking around Jason took the chance to inspect the room as Brom and the others Left.

"I think I finally have a name for my dragon. Thorn, his colors remind me of a rose, and his spikes look like rose thorns, and he's currently a Thorn in my side."

Jason looked closely at one of the small lamps their illuminated nature as it seemed some form of magic. "Are you upset you have found your destiny?"

"No He's got his tail wrapped around my waist and once one of his spikes is in my side." Murtagh said as Jason looked to find Murtagh sitting down with Thorn in his lap, tail curled around his waist. "And yes to a point I do, but I also some how feel like with him A part of my life that I never knew was missing had been found." he said rubbing Thorn's head. "Morzan had a red dragon."

Jason made not a slight at that as Eragon looked at Thorn and swallowed unsure what to say. "I never guessed Brom was a Dragon Rider."

"I did, how else would he have known so much about them. Anyway it matters not. His dragon must have been killed, I doubt he wants to remember it. Too painful too, might be wise to let him broach the subject when and if he is ready. As for your dragon Murtagh, given that you two are Brothers, I did say that Fate and destiny does enjoy throwing people for loops, or pulling together the most unlikely of people."

"You speak as if it has a mind and will of it's own." Saphira said.

"I'm convinced it's got a sense of humor."

"You never told us of your past. Why?" Murtagh asked

Just as Jason was about to answer the door to the room opened and in came some people carrying food and drink. Two large roasts for Saphira were brought in as Orik watched over people. Other's brought in two smaller roasts for Thorn and Jason's Dragon. There three trays of food and drink were also brought. There Jason watched as they set the trays down and Jason's Dragon squirmed out of his arms insistingly as it raced over to the meat. Meeting Thorn in mid stride to two collided and there they began to wrestle rolling around in a ball. The sight absurd and wholly comical as Jason grabbed his side and burst out laughing as hard as he could.

Jason could feel his dragon's emotions. They were not hostile, well they were but it was in a good natured way. They two were wrestling and play fighting as wings fluttered, flapped, and tails lashed out. Play biting, mock roars as one sought to get the hand up and over the other. Murtagh like Jason could feel the pleasure from Thorn's play. They had been absorbed in watching they did not notice that they had been left alone. Jason felt good, as he also though with some caution that he will need to be very careful when his dragon was angry, to not allow himself to get so caught up in the emotions.

Soon the play fight ended as Thorn managed to pin Jason's Dragon. And gave a high pitched roar of victory as Jason could feel his Dragon some what humiliated by her defeat of the slightly younger hatchling. There Thorn pranced over to the smaller chunks of meat and taking the larger of the two claimed his spoils before coming over to Murtagh proud. Murtagh rubbed Thorn's head and said, "These two are going to be intolerable when they get too large for wrestling."

"Until they do, let them play." Jason said as his dragon came over to him holding in her jaws her meat looking at Jason almost shamed. Jason scratched her chin and petted her careful of her spikes, "You did your best, now eat up you need your strength." There she and Jason ate. Eragon had finished eating as he said to Jason.

"You never answered Murtagh's Question of your past."

"Nor do I intend to, not yet at least." Jason said as he moved to a wall to rest as his dragon moved with him.

Eragon rested on Saphira as Murtagh like Jason rested on a wall. There he watched Saphira lift her head and look at Murtagh and there she spoke to both Murtagh and Jason,

"If you two wish you may lay against me tonight."

"I thought you didn't like me Saphira." Murtagh said as she lowered her head and looked at him.

"I don't trust you entirely yet. Eragon does, Jason does, Brom does. They are willing to give you a chance to prove it, And so will I."

She said and laid her head down making room for Jason and Murtagh as Jason came close and laid against her. Slowly Murtagh also got up as he came to lay against Saphira. Thorn yawned out as he came over to Jason's Dragon and there the two began to cuddle together as their friendship was growing. Saphira leans over to nuzzle them licking them softly before settling down. Jason closed his eyes as he began to meditate as a prelude to sleep. He had finally been able to stop using the force as his body could honestly start recovering.

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Jason woke to the feel of someone shaking him firmly. There he found Eragon shaking him awake, "Hey time to get up, were heading out. We been summoned to meet Brom and Ajihad." Eragon stood up as he said, "He's awake now."

The Jedi exile chastised himself for falling asleep so deeply, when he knew he should have remained awake and alert for possible ambushes and assassins. He had failed Brom, he felt his Dragon was also pleased Jason was awake. There Jason became aware of a pounding headache, "My head feels like a drum being pounded on."

Eragon and Murtagh came over to help Jason stand up. Orik came up as he asked, "Feel like the front of yer head and the back pounding at each other?"

"Exactly, you know what caused it?" Jason asked.

"Yes, it was some bread we dwarves make. It's known in a few humans to both knock them out, and when they wake up, gives them a head pain equal to a night full of drinking the strongest ales. I beg your pardon..." Orik said.

Lifting his left hand Jason said, "No harm was intended, You did not know, I did not know. Nothing to be forgiven for." he smiled an stood up straightening his outfit. and pulled his hood back. There he saw the bald man and could feel the anger seething below the surface like a barely restrained hurricane. Jason dusted himself off and there he rolled his neck. "I'll be alright, I am ready to go."

Jason noticed the men and he allowed them to guide him out as he went through the steps to help soothe his own headache. There he mentally reached across to Eragon and Saphira and there he told them "Be leary of this man, he has nothing but anger towards us, and my instincts tell me he is not to be trusted."

"Thank you, something about him did seem wrong."

Eragon said, he could feel Saphira.

"If he tries to harm Eragon I'll bite him in half." she growled

"Calm yourself Saphira, He is too cunning to do something openly. If he does try to harm Eragon, he will make it look entirely like an accident. And if you attack him now, you'll only make Eragon look like an enemy."

All Jason got from her was a snort. Knowing Murtagh's mind was closed off he came up to touch him on the shoulder, "When we get a chance, I think we should talk privately about those secret Dragon training exercises Brom told us about. I'm not sure I quite understood them correctly."

"I didn't understand them my self at first. We can run it past Brom when we get a chance." Murtagh said. Jason noted Saphira laughing softly, a smirk upon Eragon's face a moment later.

Jason felt a soft tentative brush against his mind as he could feel Murtagh's presence brush against his mental defenses. Jason lowered them just enough to talk with Murtagh. "Murtagh?"

"Yes."

"I assume you know not to trust this man correct?"

"Naturally."

"I just wanted to double check my friend."

Jason closed his mind. That small conversation had lasted mere seconds as the group was brought to their horses. Eragon asked the Bald man. "How is Arya?"

He hesitated, "I do not know, The healers are still with her." he said with a disdaining look. There they were walked out of the room where they had been and down the hallway, they had come. Thorn and Jason's Dragon walked beside their respective trainer as Thorn looked at the Statue of a quilled animal and growled at it softly. Jason's Dragon sniffed at it as he could feel her curiosity at everything, she nosed around sniffing Orik, and a few of the guards, A couple of them had to resist the impulse to reach down and stroke her head. The only one she did not like was the bald man.

With Saphira in the Lead Eragon was told to mount up, when he tried to mount Saphira the bald man more or less screamed at him "No! Ride your horse till I tell you other wise." The echo cut through Jason's head like a knife as the Man looked at him as if hoping to see the Jedi cringe in pain and Jason felt his anger flare when he made no notice of the shout. This was a man who loved power, control, and would do much to attain it, and even more to keep it.

"You will ride single file down the center of this tunnel, if you attempt to go anywhere else you will be stopped." There Jason mentally had his dragon walk up beside him as this irked the man as it sat down beside Jason. "I said single file, tell your dragon to get behind you." the bald man commanded. His eyes burned with anger as Thorn came right beside Murtagh and sat down as Jason could see a blood vessel bulge in the man's temple. Jason knew he was pushing his luck as Eragon could barely restrain his smirk.

"I said...." he started and Jason interrupted him.

"No I will not." Jason said flatly and in a highly challenging way.

The Man snarled out in anger, "Why...." Jason once more interrupted him as he could feel the man's temper ready to ignite and he wanted to keep things defused.

"Because you have not said the magic word." That got a stunned look from him as Orik and the guards just stared at Jason, The bald man just looked at Jason as if he was the most ridiculous man, or insane. His temper was just barely contained but the absurdity of the situation made him ask.

"And what is this almighty magic word? Oh wise one?" the man glared at Jason with absolute murder in his eyes.

"Why it is " Please " of course." Jason said. In that instant Eragon, Murtagh, Saphira, Orik, and everyone there just burst out laughing. The tunnel filled with the laughter as it echoed through out the place Jason had his eyes locked on the bald man who wanted to do nothing more then kill Jason where he stood, Still by some means he maintained control of his temper. And there after things calmed down he asked, Every word that left his mouth was filled with venom and hate.

"Please, tell your dragons to get in line behind you." he said smiling with his teeth bared. Jason could see it in his eyes, he would do what ever it took to strike back at him for this humiliation. Jason decided to end it would one final act of defiance.

"No, you have treated us like criminals and slaves from the moment we entered this place. I abhor slavery." he said as his eyes left the bald man and there looked to the Dwarf expectantly. Jason knew there would be hell to pay later but he would be ready. Just as the man was about to explode the Dwarf cleared his throat rather loudly as he said in the most polite of tones. Honest if a bit exaggerated.

"Master Riders, would you please, kindly ask your dragons to fall in line behind you."

Bowing his head "Of course." Said Jason as he moved his hand back and his dragon got behind his horse into position, Thorn did the same. As they were arranged thusly, Saphira followed by Eragon, Jason followed by his dragon, and Murtagh followed by Thorn. Beside each of there was a guard on either side. The Bald man glared daggers at Jason as he moved up to the Front as did Orik. The bald man clapped his hands twice as he was left pondering thoughts of hatred and vengeance towards Jason. Jason's lesson was meant to serve as two things, a lesson in humiliation, and to make himself a target to spare Eragon and Murtagh any harm.

There they walked down the tunnel as the sound of the horses moving down the hallway echoed. Sensing those around him Jason could feel everyone here save the bald man was highly amused at what Jason had the audacity to pull. Jason did not gloat on it as he closed his eyes and began to meditate, he opened his eyes and everything took on a better color as he looked around seeing things through the force as Visas had taught him.

Looking at people he could could see them, their emotional and mental state. They also shined out as Jason could see the energy they projected. The guards were varying shades, more ranging from white to a faint light blue. One held a slight Reddish Tint. The only one who had the aura to worry Jason, was the bald man, his aura reminded him of a Sith Lord.

For nearly an hour they walked down the Tunnel as the hall way was broken by some doors here and there. Jason took time to admire the craftsmanship. It was highly hand crafted, he was almost sure it would have been machined out, save he did know that this level of craftsmanship was possible, but only by those dedicated to stone work. He could see light up ahead as Jason squinted his eyes to see it better around Saphira as he looked back behind him checking on his dragon which was walking around almost bored at keeping in line. Soon Jason could see the halls here were gilded in gold and precious gems, a couple of which caught his senses as being attuned to the force.

Jason pulled the reigns of his horse as it nickered. The Bald man had stopped as he lifted his hand "You may ride your dragon Eragon. Murtagh, Jason, would you Ride Side by side with your dragons on opposite sides. Please." he said. While there was anger there it was a genuine request. Jason hoped that he was wrong about this man's nature. His instincts told him otherwise however. Jason motioned to his right Side as he asked Murtagh.

"Would you ride to my right please?" He saw Murtagh look up at him and nod Murtagh slowly rode Tornac up as he moved to the left. There his dragoness took to the left side of Jason and looked up, as Thorn stood on the right side of Murtagh. Jason straightened himself as he said, "We are Ready. If I may be so bold, might I suggest that after Eragon and Saphira completely leave the Tunnel, after twenty, thirty feet clap your hands once and then Murtagh and I can walk out together. Will add to the dramatic flare of showing us off."

If the man was annoyed or angered at the suggestion he made no notice of it, but he did say, "A... good idea. Orik and I will both clap. Then you may both ride out." Orik nodded as the doors were suddenly threw open after a few moments letting light bleed into the tunnels. Took awhile for Their eyes to adjust as Jason could see into the distance a Volcano it was over a dozen miles wide as he looked into it. A sight to behold as Jason stood in awe of what he could see which was not much. He heard Orik say "Look well, humans, for no rider has set eyes upon this for nigh over a hundred years. The airy peek under which we stand is Fathen Dur - discovered thousands of years ago by the father of our race, Korgan, while he tunneled for gold. And in the center stands our greatest achievement: Tronjhiem, the city-mountain built from the purest marble." He said as the doors grinded to a halt.

Jason was highly impressed, "Its beauty exceeds even the Jedi temple at it's finest." he said honestly. Jason and Murtagh as well as their dragons were still cloaked in darkness, thus invisible for the most part as Jason could feel hundreds having gathered, no thousands of people all were around the gate. Humans and Dwarves, from what Jason could see the dwarves out numbered the humans. All eyes locked on Eragon as he could feel his confidence shrinking. There he gave a soft wave of his and then after a moment seemed to shrink back. Jason heard some one cheer and then a single clapping. There seemed to be a moments hesitation and then the crowd exploded. A roar of applauding cries of joys and an over whelming sense of hope and pride raced through Jason. He could feel them as Saphira began walking out of the Tunnel slowly as she blew a puff of smoke from her nose, The crowd quieted and shrank back for a moment then, the cheering returned only intensified.

After Saphira's tail had left the cave and was out for about ten feet Jason noticed that Orik and The man clapped signaling. There Jason placed his hand on Murtagh's shoulder. "Trust in Brom." and there he and Murtagh began riding forward at the same pace Eragon was walking. At first not one seemed to notice up until some one pointed out Murtagh and Jason, and then things got deadly quiet. He could feel Murtagh's fear building as Jason lifted his left hand up and waved to the crowd slowly.

If the cheering and applauding for Eragon was loud, at this point it had reached near deafing levels. The sense of feeling was over whelming at this point and Jason had to close his senses as he noticed Murtagh scared he reached out to place a hand on his left hand to offer and reassure him, there Jason got Murtagh to look at him and there relax some as Murtagh offered a wave with his right hand working to hold his fear back and stand there. Jason noticed that his dragon and Murtagh's were nervous at the large crowd of people and they moved closer to their riders for protection. Guards that had been behind them came up to form a barrier between the dragons and the crowd.

They did not block off sight, just helped gently prod people back from getting to close. Jason was worried that they might get trampled. Jason had seen the Volcano as it was with large massive icicles hanging down like massive daggers. The walls were too high for any dragon to fly over, and it would be impossible for an army of this world to batter down the doors with out magic users. The Varden had a perfect hiding place, perhaps here Jason might be able to get some tools he could make shift to repair his remote summoner.

Jason notices how people were, The dwarves out numbered humans easily. He noticed the dwarves some stared at them resentfully, others turned and moved away. He could see the human men all wearing daggers our armed for war, women carried themselves with pride as children and infants stared wided eyed at this parade of three dragon riders. They look and how they carried themselves told him they were used to hardship, they were wary, but could tell that it was as if all their prayers had been answered in these three.

Jason's senses told him they were in no danger as he rested his hand on Murtagh's shoulder. Slowly and after a while the cheering stopped as they rode slowly to the marbled city. Watching his surroundings, he could see it looming more and more yet there was no feeling of dread.

Finally they neared the gates of the mountain city. Jason's keen eyes allowed him to see how it flowed rounded contours, near seamless. It was encrusted with Gems, many of which were so large they seemed unreal, or synthetic. Still he had seen gems large enough to rival them. Jason focused less on the aesthetic details and more on their surroundings. People seemed to not notice Murtagh, or at least who he was. Still he could tell the dwarves loved wealth and where not afraid to flaunt it, or they considered gems only for their aesthetic value and beauty. Jason was keeping his eyes open as the over whelming feeling of hope and joy would cloak a would be assassin. Despite all the good will, Jason could feel something Amiss.

Finally passing between the gates of Tronjheim, and between two massive golden gryphons, the parade finally came to the end. The bald man told them they would need to progress on foot. The crowd gave a scattered booing as Jason slowly dismounted, his dragon stayed beside him as he looked to Saphira's saddle, saw and sensed the Egg was still there. Jason reached down to Rub her head as they progressed inside.

Passing inside Jason looked around as the light from above was cast through a massive gemstone above them which looked like a massive rose. Looking around not even Uru'Baen's splendor compared to this, but he had seen more impressive displays, The Dwarves would be shocked at some of the beauty his galaxy held. Still, if one added to the fact this was all done by hand, that would have made Tronjheim a wonder of the Galaxy. Slowly they were guided down a path and to a pair of large Cedar doors. Large enough for a dragon much more massive then Saphira to pass through.

After they passed through the door The doors were shut behind them as the room was dominated by a large walnut desk. A man was behind the deck, his skin was like oiled ebony, the top of his head was shaved bare with hair down the sides. He had a neat and trimmed beard. His shoulders were broad, as his white outfit allowed his frame to stand out. There off to his side stood Brom, Broms robes were gone, now he was dressed in fine clothes, looking very much like an ancient wizard. The sword at his side was of fine craftsmanship. Jason could see that Brom also had chain mail under neath his tunic.

Ajihad raised his hand, snapped his fingers. There a second bald man with tattoos came out. He looked exactly as the Bald man who had brought them here. Eragon, and Murtagh looked surprised at the. "Your confusion is understandable, they are twin brothers." A small smile graced the lips of Ajihad, "I would tell you their names, but they have none." he said softly.

There were three seats arranged in a Quarter circle as Ajihad looked like he had been up all week involved in massive disputes that had worn him thin. There he offered a hand to beckon them over as he turned his eyes to Murtagh, "Remove your shirt, and show me your back please." There Murtagh looked to Brom, then to Jason as he eyed the Twins and finally Ajihad. Brom nodded his head as Jason carefully opened his white robes to show his sabers on his belt. A flash of concern came over the twins faces as he sat down.

Murtagh pulled his tunic up over shoulders and there he turned around to show the scar he had on his back. There Ajihad closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose as he said, "So it is true, I had feared as much. You may sit down." There Ajihad carefully leaned back and looked to the ceiling.

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Ajihad inhaled as he leaned forward. "Brom has told me everything that has happened, the question is what am I going to do with you?" he said looking squarely at Murtagh. Murtagh shrugged his shoulders and spoke.

"I don't know. I did not want any of this. I had wanted to leave the very night Jason had returned to us from Uru'Baen. But he convinced me to stay." Murtagh said. Jason looked down as he watched his dragon stand up and start walking around looking at things and sniffing. With out warning she jumped up and pounced Thorn from behind. Thorn recoiled as once more the two began to play, Ajihad looked down at the pair and then at Jason.

"You should have let him go, this would be so much easier." Ajihad said.

"I did not convince him, he chose to stay. Perhaps asking him for the reasons why he stayed, and chose to come to the Varden, would be better asked." Jason said. "So why did you choose to come with us?"

"You knew who my father was, yet you did not care. You were the first one I had met who knew who I was and treated me with kindness nor fear. Your words, When you said, "Judge not the child for the sins of the father, lest your sin be passed onto your own child." I believed it. I believed it when you said that you would let me go instead of coming to the Varden if that was my choice. When the time came." Murtagh said chokingly, "I couldn't I could not abandon my own brother. Do what you want to me, but don't harm Eragon, my half brother." Murtagh said firmly.

Ajihad looked over at Eragon his eyes settling on Saphira and then he moved his gaze upon Jason as he watched as his Dragon managed to finally pin Thorn. "You placed me in a very difficult position, As much as the Varden is in your debt for, Saving Brom, and obtaining two more Dragon eggs, which have hatched. How do you purpose I solve this, if you are so wise, I ask your council."

Jason leaned back and closed his eyes as he thought long for his answer, "There is a fine line between the forces of chance, circumstance, fate, and destiny. I know for a fact Destiny loves throwing these sorts of things together. I think I have manged to piece together the entire story of what has happened. I strongly suspected Brom of being a Dragon Rider, how else would he had known so much of them. I am willing to bet Galbatorix, did all he could to obliterate the Dragon Rider's knowledge."

Brom swallowed hard as he asked, "Have you scryed upon us?"

Jason shook his head, "No, I have not. But my words will have only as much truth as you choose them to have." Jason looked around and thought it would be best to with hold some of the information he had gained from Brom till later date. "If you tell people the Truth of them, and it will get out sooner or later."

"What will get out, you have implied this one has some dark secret, yet you have not said what his name is." One of the Twins demanded pointing at Murtagh. "Who are you."

"Understand this, I have promised him my protection. I will not allow any harm to come to him. Judge not the child for the sins of the Father," Jason said as Ajihad completed.

"Lest your children be judged for your sins. As Brom told me you would defend him. And from what I have been told you are very powerful." Ajihad had said. Leaning back he looked at Murtagh. The twins sneered almost imperceptibly at Jason.

"Well Murtagh." When Ajihad said his name, that made Orik shout out.

"What?!" Orik shouted and went for his axe pulling it out Jason lifted his right hand up and was about to force yank it out of his hand just as Ajihad slammed his fist down on the Table.

With a shout he yelled out, "Enough, All of you!" The fist slamming down caught everyone's attention. Jason watched Ajihad. "I have known who he is since last night. I had spoken with Brom and King Hrothgar, and the information Brom had given to us, has me convinced, as well as both Brom and King Hrothgar this is not idle chance, but as Jason said destiny and fate. Until I can speak with Arya about this. Murtagh and his dragon will be confined to the Dragon Hold. Everything they need will be taken there. Jason Talben." Ajihad had spoken sharply.

"The Varden are in your debt for saving Brom's life. And for rescuing two of his six dragon eggs. Earning Brom's trust was not easy, Brom has forbidden Eragon from being examined. And knowing you I doubt you would allow him to endure such a painful ordeal. There for Murtagh is your responsibility, you are to keep him from getting into trouble, or causing it. If he does you will suffer the same consequences as him." Turning once more to Murtagh.

"Until I speak with Arya you will be confined to the Dragon hold. Then we will wait until we speak with Arya on this matter, then perhaps we can decide how to sort this mess out. Guards." As Ajihad called out six armed men pushed the door open and came in ready for trouble. "Escort this rider to the dragon hold at once. Do not allow any but myself, Brom or the riders to enter the dragon hold. Do not speak to him, nor allow him to leave the hold."

The Guards nodded to Ajihad as Murtagh stood up, Thorn instantly came over to his rider. The guards looked at Murtagh wary but complied as they escorted him from the room with his dragon beside him. Jason looked over to Murtagh and said. "Do as you are told and wait for me." Murtagh just shrugged as he left the room. Ajihad looked at them.

"Now I want everyone out of here except for Saphira and the Riders." He command. Orik stood ready and on edge.

"Sir there is still the matter of my insubordination."

"I will deal with that later, and don't let the twins escape, I will have words for them soon." Once Ajihad had spoken Orik and the Twins left as the doors closed and he slumped in his chair, there he was collecting himself as Jason felt his dragon rub against his leg, her mind pressing against his as she was worried for her friend. Jason reached down to rub her head and said, "Shhh, Thorn will be alright, So will Murtagh." There she looked up at Saphira and Eragon. There they waited for Ajihad to speak. When nothing was forthcoming. Eragon asked.

"Is Arya all right?"

Ajihad looked at him and gravely said, "No.... but the healers tell me she will recover. They worked on her all night. The poison took a dreadful toll on her. She would not have lived if not for you. For that you have the Varden's Deepest thanks."

Eragon's shoulders had slumped in relief as Jason leaned back. Lifting his hand Jason motioned to be called upon.

"Yes Talben?"

"I was wondering why did Brom have me remain behind with the others?"

Brom cleared his throat and said, "Because there is a traitor or traitors in the Varden. If I have understood how you work your powers, you are perhaps the strongest spell weaver in the Varden. With the fact you are now a Rider you are the perfect protector."

Jason nodded as he asked Brom, "Then I can assume that you have not told Ajihad exactly everything?" When Brom shook his head he stood up and to Ajihad's confusion he went to Saphira. "Saphira, By your leave, may I reclaim that which I have placed in your protection?" Jason said with a bow. Saphira looked at Brom and Eragon before she looked to Ajihad. Then she stood up and slowly presented her side. Jason went to his bag to make sure that it was indeed still there, then he began to take the bag off her saddle. Ajihad had stood up as he stared intently.

"It can not be." He whispered.

There Jason careful to hide the egg, held it protectively slowly turned around showing the emerald green dragon egg to Ajihad. Ajihad's eyes opened wide as he looked at the Egg in Jason's hand and swallowed hard as he said, "I understand why Brom had said nothing. Had word of this escaped you would have been near mobbed getting here. I can assume you will not relinquish guardianship of it?"

"Not to the Varden, not until the traitor or traitors are caught. You may tell Arya that if she wishes to claim guardianship of the egg from me. She may challenge me, at her leisure, when she feels she has recovered enough. I will state the exact terms at the time we are to duel." Jason said placing the Egg back in the pack which had carried it. There he placed it at his side, and once more sat down as Ajihad swallowed. "Perhaps I could also help find these traitors. As for how, now that we are here. I doubt they will keep out of our business. You must promise me they will receive a fair trial, and a fair chance to defend themselves. Because most likely all I will be able to find out are persons who would warrant suspect."

Jason watched as Ajihad looked at him with carefully studdied eyes, as if to find the true nature of Jason and said. "I should have the Twins examine your mind to find out who you are." Jason called his bluff.

"They will find I have been trained to resist both mind control, and mental invasion. I also will not surrender my secrets to them. Besides, I have proven myself to the people of the Varden. I have helped Eragon and Saphira reach the Varden. I have saved Brom's life. I managed to obtain three of Galbatorix's dragon eggs. What would the people of the Varden say of you if they learned you treated me as an enemy, had me interrogated, tortured? I don't think you are the type of man who would use torture, No your not one to embrace things Galbatorix uses. What use is there in over throwing a Tyrant, if you become one in the process?"

"You know your position well Dragon Rider Jason Talben, I will not underestimate you. Nor should you I." Ajihad's statement elected a soft smile and a nod from Jason.

"Ajihad, I am only interested in ending a tyrant's reign, Returning peace and true justice to Alagaesia. I have no desire for power, or prestige. I would much rather live my life behind a veil of anonymity, Which is not possible. If my teachers had seen me in the parade, they would have had very harsh words for me indeed." Jason feigned weakness as he gave a soft ohhhh. "Forgive me Ajihad, I have not the strength to continue our talk. I am much weaker then I expected to be. I must retire for the day, lest I not have the strength to ascend to the dragon hold on foot. We can talk at length later at your leisure once I recover."

"Very well. You, Brom, and I will speak at length when you have recovered, and before I allow you free access to Farthen Dur. Guards." he called out firmly. More guards came in as Ajihad said, "Escort rider Jason to the Dragon hold. Ensure that food, drink, clothes and other amenities are provided for him, and the other rider. I wish you well Jason Talben."

As Jason got up he caught out of the corner of his eyes the twins watching him through the doorway then Jason feigned even more weakness as if he had gotten a touch unsteady and there he stood straight and held his pack containing the dragon egg. "Eragon, I have words of wisdom I would share with you before I leave I may not have a chance for the next few days yet. The next few days on you will be hard, expectations shall be high of you, and me. When you speak, choose your words with great care. If you are asked to perform something, if it is something you are confused upon, or something that makes you worried. Seek Brom's Wisdom. As a Dragon-rider, our elder, mentor, and teacher. He has not lead us astray, he shall not. If you have not the wisdom to perform a task, speak with Brom first. I would."

"I have words for you too Saphira, private words, may I speak them to your mind?" Jason asked as Saphira nodded.

"We have entered a battle field where swords and claws are worthless. Here words and deeds can be more powerful then Galbatorix's entire army. You can not allow the anger and rage with in you to become unchained. Eragons enemies will use your actions against him if they may. Be cautious of what you do. To protect Eragon here, you must out think your enemies. I will be watching him, as well as Brom will."

Jason watched as Saphira bowed her head and nodded.

Jason then departed with two guards walking out the door. Jason noticed the Twins watching him with the black snake like eyes. both of them looking at Jason as he carried his bag tightly in his arms. His walk was heavy an leaden, taking his time to appear extremely tired, Jason was able to feign weakness well. The last thing he sensed from the twins was great arrogance and confidant in that they were stronger then him. He also sense malicious intent from them. There Jason sought to contact Brom but he found that it was as if the room was shielded from his powers, wards had been erected around it to make it private.

Turning the corner one of the guards "Master Jason. There is a supply elevator we could use to ascend to the Dragon hold." The guard said with respect and admiration.

"Thank you kind sir." Jason was lead to an elevator and there he allowed his dragon to enter first and then so did Jason. The guards worked together as they used the pulleys to lift the large service elevator to the top. it would take a while but would be faster then walking up flights of stairs. Jason began to draw upon the Force sensing the area around him. If there was to be an attempt on his life here would be the perfect place. Cut the ropes and tamper with the lift at the right height they would crash to the ground killing all on it. Jason reached out and prepared to stop the Elevator should that happen.

Opening his senses Jason saw two ways to do it, one with magic to make it look like an accident, or cut the rope above them with a knife. Jason would need to react fast if he had to stop it. Time went on as Jason leaned against the wall as he went through what Brom had told him of magic, and a Dragon Rider's magic. Brom had told him that magic to be projected over distant required greater amounts of energy. Which was not the cast with his power, Jason could effect objects a thousand miles away, as if they were right in front of him.

The ride took at least ten minutes before Jason and his guards reached the near top level. "This is as far as we can go sir, Ajihad left instructions for no one to enter the Dragon hold save him or the riders." Jason nodded as the elevator was locked in place and the door opened. The guards stepped out followed by Jason and his Dragon, left the lift as he bowed to them and thanked them. "I thank you for your assistance. I will make sure Ajihad knows how helpful you were to me at your own expense. May the Force be with you both." JAson said with out thinking.

When their puzzled looks came to him he smiled, "It means loosely, May fate and fortune be with you. A traditional well wishing from my lands." he said and they smiled as he received the well wishing in return and they slowly began to descend down the elevator. Jason remained there to make sure they reached the bottom safely, it took them faster to get down then up and once safely on the ground he left and went to the Dragon hold. The sound of his dragon's claws tapped on the marble floor beside him as he looked around and there he reached the Dragon hold finding it with a number of caves in the wall many were of large, and medium size and could easily fit Saphira. The floor Jason noticed was somewhat odd as he realized that he was on top of the gem. The gem was not ordinary as it seemed to hold special properties.

As Jason reached down to touch it he felt power from it, and for a moment wondered what properties it would hold if he got a small shard for his lightsabers. But to damage such a work of art was out of the question for him. When he looked around he saw Murtagh sitting on the ledge of a cave and there he was petting his dragon who was sleeping. Jason's Dragon gave a yelp as she came up and bounded over to her play mate instead of pouncing him they began to rub their faces and necks to each other. He could see supplies and the packs from their horses had been brought up.

"Murtagh, it is good to see you." Jason said as he noted that there seemed to be a few other items here as well. Jason held his place as he sensed something out of place, he felt as if he was being watched by some malevolence now. There he exhaled softly and came over to sit by Murtagh.

"Are you ok?" Murtagh asked, "You haven't been looking good for the last few days."

"No Murtagh, I'm not. I have over done it with my powers. Right now, I am effectively helpless, I exhausted every last ounce of power fighting the Kull and Urgals. It will be weeks before I am in fighting shape." Jason said lying.

"But you said how you use your power...."

"That was over simplified, normal resting only returns a small portion. What I need to to is enter a deep meditative ritual. One from which I can not be easily awakened. And it would still take me a week or more to fully replenish myself, if not two." Jason was lying to Murtagh. Truth was very different. his powers were slowly restoring even now. If he could get some hours of meditation in, and honest sleep, come morning, he would be fully restored. Leaning back he exhaled softly as he could feel Durza's presences. Somehow the Shade was had been able to get a picture of him, and was now watching him. And near The Shade he could sense the Ra'zac.

Closing his eyes Jason listened to Murtagh as he talked. He attempted to reach out to touch Brom's mind, he had to get a message through to him. Only to be blocked by that blasted barrier around Ajihad's room. Unable to feel Eragon or Saphira clearly he attempted to reach Eragon then Saphira with no luck. He kept his mind open for them as he had to pay attention to Durza who seemed very pleased with himself as he attempted to Listen to them. Dividing his attention made listening to Murtagh some what hard.

"Yes, powerless, he will be easy to capture and defeat." One Raz'zac said.

"He will suffer for my injury. Suffer greatly." The other spoke as the shade lifted his hand up.

"Remember Galbatorix wants the riders, alive, and intact. However he said nothing of not torturing them. You can go after this, Talben and Murtagh, but Eragon is mine."

Jason withdrew from the spot he had found Durza at and there shook his head as Murtagh asked, "Hey you listening to me?"

"Hmmm, Sorry I must have dozed off." Yawning out Jason asked, "If there is some dried meat and water. Once I eat I'll get some rest before beginning my meditation tomorrow."

"You don't need a snack you need a meal." Murtagh come up and did find some food for Jason. "And when Eragon gets here, next time he goes down I'll make sure he tells them to send us one." Jason accepted the meat from Murtagh and began to eat. There he waited for a chance to contact Brom or Saphira. He ate relatively quickly before he allowed Murtagh to help him into a cave and there into a bed. Jason went out like a light still holding on to the Dragon Egg's pouch tightly.

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Jason had to wait hours for the ability to talk with Saphira. There when he could sense her clearly Jason spoke into her mind. "Finally, Saphira You must tell Brom to talk with me quickly, privately via the mind. It is urgent!"

Saphira was startled by the suddenness of the voice. "I will." She replied to him. It took a few moments but finally Jason could sense Brom's presences in his mind.

There Jason relayed his information on what he had sensed to Brom, who in turned became fearful. He also relayed his plan to find out if the Twins are the traitors. Brom's thoughts turned sour at once. "You are taking a dangerous chance with Eragon's life. I do not approve of this."

"You do not have to approve, You have heard my council. What you choose to do is up to you."

"If Saphira finds out...."

"Then tell her Brom. Let her know my full plan, I take full responsibility for this plan, but we should proceed only if she agrees, it is her rider's safety at risk. But don't let Eragon know unless he can play it off. If the Twins suspect that for one moment they have been suspected as the Traitors. And if they are...."

"They'll hide their actions. I will speak with Ajihad and Arya of your plan Jason. With Arya Eragon come to harm." there she won't let

"We can not spring the trap on the Twins until after Durza has committed his forces to the attack. But that will make it hard to get ready in time to repel the Urgal forces. Can the Varden and Dwarves mobilize with perhaps only a couple hours to spare?"

"Jason, Ever since Ajihad realized there were traitors in the Varden. He's had the Varden ready. Varden will be ready, the Question that really matters is has Galbatorix supplemented The Urgal forces with his own troops. IF he has we are doomed. With out Thorn and your Dragon to help. Even if Murtagh could use magic..."

"Don't under estimate the Varden. When men are put into a position of no escape, and it comes down to a matter of fight or die. They may surprise you. But part of our key to victory lays in Durza, and the Raz'zac believing I am still exhausted and tired. Also, stay with Eragon today."

"Another one of your visions?"

"No. I just think it would be nice if you spent time with him. He has many questions, he needs answered. Tell Ajihad he may speak with me tomorrow if he wishes, I will be fully recovered tomorrow."

"Of course. You do know he knew you were feigning weakness?"

"If I was as truly as weak as I had claimed, I would have left the Egg with Saphira."

Brom left contact with Jason as he heard the flapping of large wings. There he sensed Saphira landing, in the dragonhold as well as the approach of people. He opened his eyes as he looked to see Dwarves coming in with large chunks of meat, as well as Water. A couple of them eyed Murtagh suspiciously. But came over to him and asked in a some what revolting tone. "Is there anything you require Son of Morzan?"

He did not seem shocked when the guard called him that. A growl from Saphira cooled the dwarf some. "Many people have heard how you and Rider Eragon had been united in the Ra'zac hunt. How you both became Dragon riders." he said in a heavy angry tone. "No one can deny that fate brought you two together. But Remember if you leave the Dragonhold, There are many here who remember your father's time with hate." The Dwarf said with disgust and hate in his voice.

Murtagh listened to the words and said with honest politeness, "I need nothing more, but thank you for your warning Master Dwarf." Murtagh said as he could feel someone looking at him.

"Is Rider Jason alright?" He said and hearing the Dwarves' foot steps come over to him, "Rider Jason are you alright." Jason heard his voice and how much it reminded him of Vrook Lamar's voice.

Jason turned over and groaned out softly, "Come on Master Vrook, I worked hard all day yesterday. Master Vander said I could rest today, please let me sleep." Jason turned over on the bed to face the wall holding his pouch tightly. Jason heard a soft chuckle as the Dwarf slowly withdrew from his area.

He could hear Saphira eagerly tearing into her food as he brushed lightly against the mind of his dragon there he found Saphira holding down the bloody haunch as she swallowed her food to allow Thorn and his Dragon to tear of chunks of meat as well. Finally Jason relaxed his mind and allowed sleep to over take him. Just as he was about to drift off Jason felt something. He felt his dragon coming over to him and laying down beside him, there in a soft yet clear voice Jason heard a name spoken. In a loving fashion he heard, "Jason." spoken softly to him. There he looked at his dragon and pulled her close to him hugging her as he allowed Sleep to finally claim him.

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"Jason." he heard a soft voice clearly in his mind. As clear as one would hear it with his hearts he heard it called inside his mind and his heart. Opening his eyes he looked down at his dragon, there he could feel her love and caring. Thanks to the help of Saphira, she had grown strong with the food brought over their harsh journey. Now almost two weeks old she stood knee high to him. He had recalled the lessons Brom gave him and Murtagh. He had asked how long it took for a dragon to be able to converse with it's rider as did Eragon and Saphira. Brom had told him that it depended on the Rider and Dragon. As well as when the dragon was ready.

Now that his dragon could talk with him Jason began to run through possible names. He opened his mind fully, to allow her thoughts to merge with his own so he could run down a list of names. He had never had a pet, before, nor named someone so he was not entirely sure what she would like. He discounted any Mandalorian inspired names, Did not seem fitting of a dragon bound to a Jedi. Jason ran through his mind of names and lists. He allowed the dragon to see the imagines and inspiration for a name she would like. Most she did not like, some she did, but was not satisfied entirely.

It took two hours for him to exhaust his list of names, in there end there where a number she was considering. He would allow her to choose her own name. Oddly in the back of his mind he recalled the lessons of his many teachers. Kavar, Vrook, Zez-Kai Ell, Kreia, Vander, Zhar, and finally his Master Vima Sunrider. The Dragon instantly pressed him for more information and there he allowed her to see all the things Vima had taught him. How she taught him from her own experiences. Learning how to fend on his own while under her watchful eye. Learning to fight, settle arguments. His pranks that he enjoyed pulling on Vrook, and above all he enjoyed making his teacher laugh.

He could hear his dragon humming softly as he could feel her content with Jason's Teacher. Finally he asked, "Are you Sunrider?"

A word entered his mind, one filled with deep satisfaction. "Yes." And she began humming very deeply, in content.

Jason spent as he had on the trip as much as he could mentally about things he understood, and thought that he could explain correctly, to Sunrider. Finally he noticed a smell that seemed a touch repugnant and there dawned on him that he badly needed a bath and clean clothes. There Sunrider hopped down and there he went over to his bag of clothes. He rummaged through it as he pulled out his Clean brown Jedi master robes and his dirty black Jedi master robes. There he shook his head and left the brown ones in as he took the robes and carried them with him. Sunrider walking along beside him looking left and right down the empty halls.

As Jason explored the Dragon Hold he found a number of rooms, the first empty room he found was lavish, making him narrow his eyes and shake his head in disapproval at how fine the Riders had lived. He had found a bathtub in the room and finally set his pack down with the Dragon Egg. His strength was fully restored now as he closed the door most of the way and found it had running water, Cold, but water and soap.

Took a good two hours for Jason to clean himself, his clothes and then lastly Sunrider. She did not entirely enjoy the cold water but consented allowing him to massage and rub her body. There he relaxed softly for a bit. Looking at his wet clothes he lifted a hand up and with the force began to push the water from his robes out to get them as dry as possible. Finally clean Jason stood up and looked into a Mirror. He checked the side of his face that had been splashed with Sethir Oil. The scar was gone as he rubbed his smooth face, during the night Jason's healing trance, as well as his skills with Sith alchemy allowed him to fully heal the scar.

During the Mandalorian wars, Jason had been burned badly, as a result of it all the hair on his face was gone. He would never be able to grow a beard, nor hide a scared face with it. It was not out of Vanity, but a desire to appear presentable, those scared on the face or hands would often have some hard time in society. When he finally got out of the Tub he started to get dressed.

Now that he was clean he looked down at Sunrider, Taking his pack he once more returned to the Dragon hold, He checked to make sure Eragon and Murtagh was alright. He found Thorn sleeping beside his Murtagh and Saphira curled in her cave twenty feet off the ground. Eragon was with here as her heavy breathing sounded like soft wind in a cave. There an overwhelming sense of hunger came to him as he held his stomach, it was time to eat. He hoped that Murtagh would not mind him going through the food for him as he did not want to leave the Dragon hold, he could feel the Twins skulking somewhere below and was not in the mood to confront them just yet.

He had found a number of dried fruits, vegetables, and meats. As well as some spring water he could drink. All in all a simple, healthy meal. Jason ate more then he normally would knowing his body needed more then what he was used to eating as the last week had been brutal on him. He needed to replace calories. Unlike other Jedi, Jason always did his best to keep some fat on him, not too much, just enough to provide some extra energy to burn. It would take a couple weeks to restore that.

Sunrider ate with him as he began to recount various tales to her. She was incessantly curious, as she was eager to learn everything about him. Her thoughts were like a heavy pressure on his mind. Eager to learn, still he had not shared everything with her, something that left her bothered. Jason had sealed part of his memories off from her, these memories being his times in the Mandalorian Wars, his time in Exile, when she tried to push farther in he blocked her and told her, it was too painful for him to remember with her. That when he felt she was ready and could endure, he would.

As he and Sunrider relaxed Jason sensed the presence of another nearby. Through the force he expanded his search as he stood up, following the feeling he made his way long, slowly through the dark corridors. After descending a floor, it took a bit, but he found a Room. There light was passing from under neath it. He had been told people would be kept out of the Dragon hold so who ever this was had come up here before their arrival, or managed to sneak up here just recently. His curiosity peeked Jason did what he was needed to solve this mystery. He knocked on the door three times firmly. Standing back he held his hands behind his back and waited for the person on the other side to respond, he could very well sense another sentient inside.

Waiting Jason knocked three more times after a few moments in case those inside was asleep. Jason was about use the Force to open the door, that was before he he sensed someone coming closer to him, there he turned around as he rubbed Sunrider's head and there around the corner came a short, curly haired woman. Without warning she stopped in her tracks as she looked up at Jason perplexed and surprised. She instantly saw the pony sized Silver and Gold dragon beside Jason looking at her turning her head to the side inspecting this woman.

Sensing her concern Jason spoke softly, "I mean no harm, but I was told the Dragon Hold with be off limits to all save the riders. I am curious, why you are here?"

She looked at Jason and smiled softly, "I like to be where interesting things happen."

The tone of her voice told him, she was telling the truth. "Interesting things are bound to happen around Dragon Riders." he said with a smile.

Looking at Jason she came up closer, "I see it's true, Someone managed to get the other dragon eggs from Galbatorix." she said and looking at Sunrider, "And I bet you had something to do with it."

Rolling his eyes up he said, "I might have had some minor involvement, yes." With a respectful bow showing the palms of his hands open as if to show he had no weapons, this also exposed, his gedwey ignasia. "This is Sunrider, I am Jason Talben." he said introducing his dragon first.

She chuckled, "Sunrider uh?" She looked at Jason.

"Yes I went through about two hundred names. The only name she liked was the name of my Teacher. Vima Sunrider. So her name is Sunrider." he said. as Sunrider stood proudly and looked at her.

"It is a good name if she likes it. I'm Angela, would you and Sunrider like to come in for Tea, Rider Jason?" she invited him in.

Sensing she meant him no harm Jason bowed his head, "I would love some Tea, Angela. Sunrider will you join us?" Sunrider looked up at Jason then to Angela before shaking her head and then walking down the hallway which she came with Jason. "I guess not. I was curious as to why I sensed someone else near the Dragon Hold when Ajihad told me all others would be kept out of it. I was concerned for my companions."

Angela unlocked the door and opened it as she carried in a few things, as he entered Jason heard Angela explain. "Truthfully, I'm in hiding. When I first came to Tronjhiem," she explained as Jason looked around the place. Seeing some ivy crawling up the wall, and very lavishly decorated, so much so it made Jason uncomfortable. "I had a few days of peace---until one of one of the guards who let me into Farthen Dur blabbed about who I was. Then all the magic users here, though they barely rate the term, pestered me to join their secret group. Especially those drajl Twins who control it. Finally I threatened to turn the lot of them into Toads, excuse me, Frogs, but when that didn't deter them, I sneaked up here in the middle of the night. Not as hard as you would think."

Listening to Angela he nodded. Jason's senses alerted him to the presence in the room watching him and Angela. "Are you going to come out of hiding and join us, or watch us from the shadows like a thief or spy?" Jason lifted his hand and with a wave of it moved some boxes to expose a black cat which instantly raised up on it's hackles. The red slitted eyes stared at Jason intently, Jason's eyes looked over the cat. He could sense it had a sentient mind. "I dislike being watched from secret." and there he turned once more to face Angela.

"How did you know he Solembum was there?" She asked.

"I sensed his presence earlier, it's what lead me down here. I wanted to make sure my companions are safe. And thank you for the information on the Twins, I will be prepared to deal with them my way." Jason said watching Solembum hop down on the ground walk to the door and yowl. The door opened up and he walked out leaving the pair together. Angela looked at Jason.

With a kind smile Jason said, "I'm trained to be observant, that and when you live as long as I do, you notice a lot." he watched Angela gather some items for Tea.Â

"No one ever notices him, unless he wants to be see which is rare, and I think you hurt his pride at being unnoticed." She said to brew the tea, "Now I want to know how you managed to get the last Dragon Eggs from Galbatorix."

"Well first off, I only manged to get three of his six remaining dragon eggs," Angela cut him off.

"Six! He found four more....." Angela looked at him with shock.

Jason continued, "Yeah, I would imagine someone before the fall of the riders by Galbatorix, someone managed to smuggle them out of his reach, and until recently. As for how I got them. I walked into the castle, Jumped into his bedroom chambers. Found the eggs, got all six in my bag, and as I was making an escape. A spear caught my pack, cut it open, and I lost three of the six eggs."

Angela looked at Jason and said, "You walked into his palace?"

"Yes, exactly how I accomplished that, is my secret I'll not share. I may be able to use it again."

Angela had managed to get a pot of water to boil and Jason sat upon the floor as Angela sat in a chair, "Sorry there is only one chair here, wasn't expecting to get any guests."

"Ah the curse of being a gentleman." Jason smiled at Angela.

"So Eragon is a Rider after all. Along with you and Murtagh." she spoke Murtagh's name with hate and venom, "I can't believe he's a rider."

Listening to Angela, Jason began to think, "Tell me of your mother Angela." Angela was taken aback by that question.

"Tell you of my mother, why would you want to know of her?"

"So I can judge you by her actions, as you judge Murtagh by the actions of his father." Jason said to Angela with absolutely no smirk or joke on his face. Narrowing her eyes Angela realized what Jason was getting at and she relented.

"You have made your point, I just hope you realize the danger Murtagh poses."

"I am fully aware of the danger he poses and is in. He was raised by his father a fallen dragon rider, quite the tyrant I have been told. Now he has become a Dragon Rider himself. His life is in even greater danger. He's lost, along, and clinging to the only thing that might protect him. His half brother Eragon, and the job falls to me to protect Murtagh and keep him from causing harm. As well as convincing people to at least give Murtagh a chance."

Angela narrowed her eyes as she spoke, "What if I told you, I knew in Eragon's future a blood relative would betray him?"

Hearing the irritation in her voice Jason remained calm and collectedly said, "I would say The future is always shifting, in motion. The choices we make today can change the outcome of tomorrow. If this was a certainty, I would say Eragon might have many blood relatives he is not aware of. Member's of his family back home, his father and his family members. If you constantly watch one person who is the most likely to betray him, Murtagh, you may over look betrayal from someone else. And the betrayal may not be willing either. And if you constantly watch and suspect Murtagh for such, realizing he is not trusted may choose to abandon Eragon before Eragon is about to undertake a dangerous mission. Which in and of it's self would be a betrayal."

Angela looked thoughtful soaking in the words of Jason as she says, "Indeed there are many ways it could unfold, You have a very impressive mind. Your education was not minor."

"Thank you, now pray tell me, where this vision of the future betrayal came from?"

Listening to her voice he heard her lie, "I was making an example."

"And are a terrible liar to me. I can tell you are lying by how you spoke of the betrayal, and how you just spoke now. You spoke with certainty in your voice as if it was pure fact."Jason held his position and looked at Angela who realized Jason was far wiser then his appearance showed.

"I cast his fortune in Terim. His future clearly held betrayal, by someone in his family." She finally admitted.

Jason closed his eyes and exhaled, "I do not suppose you will tell me of what was cast in Eragon's future?"

"No, I wouldn't."

"Then I will need to speak with him about it. And attempt to get any misconceptions he has of them out of his head, and how much of a bad idea it is to attempt to divine the future. No offense to you Angela, but the future can unfold in many, many ways, yet yield the same results. I can give you an example if you would like?"

Angela looked thoughtful and a smile crept upon her lips as she stood up to fix the tea. "Please do, it will tell me much of how you think."

Jason smirked, "Well let's start with the obvious. I believe Eragon is destined to rid The lands of Galbatorix. However there are many ways that could happen. The first is clear cut, Eragon in a titanic battle of might & magic Eragon slays Galbatorix and frees Alagaesia of his rule." He explained to Angela as she prepared the tea, "The other way is less appealing. Galbatorix captures and enslaves both Saphira and Eragon. Murtagh, I and the last dragon rider also falls to his might and becomes either his slaves or killed."

"For a hundred years or more Galbatorix works his power over Eragon and Saphira, making them do all sorts of terrible things. Things I won't speak of, In his arrogance, Galbatorix grows lax as he holds total control over the elves, dwarves, and men. He over looks a small detail in his spells and such, this small hole leaves Eragon one chance to slay Galbatorix. Eragon and Saphira take advantage of it, and slays him. Now you see how much room is in one's destiny. One's destiny may be fixed indeed, the there are many, many paths which can be taken to get to it, It is never about the destination. It is always about the journey." Jason said with his eyes twinkling.

"You will be a dangerous man to any who calls you enemy." She said serving him some tea.

"I am friend to all, and enemy only to those who name me such." Jason said stirring the tea he was given, he could sense the area around him and looked at the door as he swallowed his scalding hot tea in one gulp as he said. "You must forgive me, something requires my undivided attention." Someone was attempting to sneak into the dragon hold, they almost got past his senses as Jason stood up and left Angela's room with out so much as a word. There he made his way through the hallways with his hood up saber in hand.

Walking down the hall way he felt Sunrider's concern as he told her to stay put in the dragon hold. She was very concerned as Jason looked left and right as his steps while soft were not silent. He did not want who ever was here to be unaware of him. Reaching out with his mind and senses he could sense who ever it was had evil intent, but not directed at him, rather some one else, Murtagh. He could feel a seething anger in the mind of this person for Murtagh.

Jason could sense they were close as he held his saber tightly. He had not yet turned it on not wanting to give himself away. There he thought to draw the attacker away from Murtagh and to himself. Finally in a soft voice he spoke out, "I know you are there, and I know you mean harm to Murtagh, leave him be, he is under my protection. You will have to go through me to harm him. You still have a chance to not do this." Jason was hoping the fact that they were caught would turn them away. He felt their fear and uncertainty, Finally Jason to help push them over the edge and to help encourage their withdrawal turned on his lightsaber. The hall way was filled with the golden glow of his saber.

"Is your desire for vengeance so strong you would punish the son for the sins of the father? Do you think you would not be punished for this, or perhaps would your own children be punished in your stead?" That sent fear into them as Jason continued, "Your feelings for your children are strong, you know now what Murtagh feels every day, fearful someone will harm him for the actions of his father. I know Morzan had done much harm, I beg you to turn away. I will defend Murtagh, with my life if I have to." he spoke firmly. There Jason felt those emotions become guarded and the person slowly moving away as Jason moved to the dragon hold. Turning off his saber once he was sure no one else was around.

Once he was in the dragon hold he looked around and saw Sunrider as she came up to him and looked at him carefully to inquire what was wrong. He explained what happened and heard her growl. She was not pleased he had not allowed her to go with him to confront this would be assassin. To which Jason responded that she was still young and needed to grow, that unlike Saphira, she was still vulnerable to attacks. Jason watched when Saphira lift her head up from out and baring her teeth at Jason she looked at him her eyes burned with Anger as she said in no uncertain ways.

"You are putting Eragon in danger, if you tell him anything, do anything that leads to his harm directly or indirectly, Rider or not I will rip you in half." Jason could feel her anger.

Sunrider instantly got between him and Saphira as she snarled at the older female dragon. Jason looked down at Sunrider as she Spoke, "You will not harm Jason!" he could feel her anger in her mind as well as her desire to protect him. Jason expanded his aura of calm to help calm her down.

Saphira looked at Sunrider a bit surprised at the sudden talking. Jason knelt down on one knee as he asked Sunrider allowing Saphira to hear his thoughts as he asked Sunrider. "She is more then twice your size, four times your weight, and far stronger then you, exactly what do you intend to do to stop her? Do not worry, Saphira is only doing what you would do if her position and yours were reversed. Saphira, between me, Brom, Ayra, and you Saphira no harm will come to Eragon."

Saphira looked at Jason as she grimly said, "Remember my words Jason." She tucked her head back into her small cave and there she settled down.

Jason rolled his eyes as he could sent morning had arrived and looking around he expanded his senses as he could sense the Twins around, a couple dwarves, and some of the Varden. And he sensed no more immediate threat to the people around him and he went into his cave and there he knelt down to meditate.

******************

Jason came out of the meditation and opened his eyes, he noticed Murtagh was up and was reading some scrolls. Opening his eyes he did not see Eragon, Saphira, Thorn or Sundrider. Slowly standing up Jason yawned out as he heard Murtagh speak. "Eragon wandered off following a cat, Thorn, Saphira, and Sunrider are out flying around Farthen Dur."

Nodding to Murtagh he said "Thank you, How are you doing today, feeling alright?"

Murtagh nodded as he said, "I'm surprised no one tried to poison me yet."

"Murtagh there is something you have to know." Jason then told Murtagh about the would be assassin, he also explained why he felt the food would not be poisoned, but that he wanted Murtagh to remain close to him.

Leaning back, "You are really serious about protecting me." Murtagh said looking at Jason with respect. "I only had one person who would so openly help and protect me. And he kept me hidden."

Jason nodded, "I gave you my promise I would protect you. Part of the Jedi Code is, Honor your Promises." Jason then explained. "Jedi are taught that if they make a promise, they should have always be prepared to keep it, or else to have made amends. Thus, a Jedi should never have make a promise he or she was not certain they could keep. I have dealt with assassins a number of times, many of them far more powerful they what we have encountered, I am certain I can keep you safe, providing you don't do anything Stupid."

"How powerful are you Jason? Stronger then Galbatorix?"

"Strong enough to protect you. And wise enough to guide you, I do not know your intentions. I do not know what the truth is, of why you left the Empire. But here is wisdom, all I ask is you to think on it. You are now a Dragon Rider, in time you will be strong enough to not fear anyone. You have a chance to start a new. A new life, a new beginning. It is up to you to decide what path you will choose. The time will come when you have to choose."

The approach of someone caught Jason's attention and he looked to to the stairs slowly standing up, Jason said, "Someone is coming."

"You have to have some sharp ears to be aware of someone coming."

"It's more I sense their presence then hear them. Makes it hard to surprise me." After a few minutes a dwarf walked up into the hold. He noted that only Jason and Murtagh was there, Jason spoke up, "Eragon is out and our dragons are out flying, May I help you?" Jason said walking towards the Dwarf.

"I was sent to tell you all that Knurla Orik is waiting all of you, Murtagh as well." He said. Jason noted the emotions of this dwarf were guarded and protected, still Jason did not press it as he bowed.

"Thank you, when Eragon Returns I will be sure to let him know and we shall meet with Orik as quickly as possible." The Dwarf seemed satisfied with the reply that he took his leave. Jason opened his mind and then he searched out for Sunrider. Unlike Eragon's range Jason's mind and his connection with Sunrider was stronger, He found her flying beside Thorn as they played a game of catch with Saphira. Soring effortlessly with in the volcano caldera. She was ducking and weaving attempting to catch up to Saphira, as she and Thorn were attempting to work together to get a touch on her, much to the enjoyment of the crowds below watching the chase.

"Sunrider, I hate to cut your fun short, but I need you to tell Thorn and Saphira they should return to the Dragonhold. We have been asked to meet with Orik, and when Eragon returns we should depart quickly." Jason touched her mind making her break off from the chase. Her reply was one that was of clear disappointment.

"Alright Jason I'll tell them."

"I'm sorry little one, I promise you after we are done you my take the day to your self."

"Thank you Jason."

It did not take long for the three dragons to return to the dragon hold, Sunrider and Thorn landed first with Saphira landing afterwards. The sound of their wings and claws hitting the star sapphire made him smile as he came up to Sunrider. There he rubbed her as she made a soft humming sound. Jason noticed Thorn slowly approaching him, Thorn slowly pressed his mind to Jason's as Jason opened up his mind to the young male dragon.

"Thank you." That was all Thorn said as Jason understood. There Jason reached down to rub his head. Murtagh smiled softly at Jason and there he said.

"Thank you for bringing me Thorn."

"You are both welcome, better you have him here then in the throne of Galbatorix." Jason said solemnly.

"You did all could didn't you, to get the other eggs?" Saphira asked.

"No, I could have stayed and fought the soldiers. They would have been no match for my blade."

"How many soldiers were there?" Eragon asked walking in.

Turning to face Eragon, "Forty plus the two Raz'zac." Jason also saw Angela as well beside Eragon. "The reason I ran instead of fighting was I sensed something far more dangerous coming. Perhaps Galbatorix himself. Only a fool would fight against someone when he doesn't understand, or fully know the limits of his opponent's powers. I barely know anything of dragon riders, or the limits of their powers."

"Angela said you wanted to talk to me about the fortune telling she gave me?"

"Yes. I don't know what she cast for you Eragon, I don't know want to know. But she told me part of it. I am going to tell you a bit about what I sense of your destiny. Your destiny is to End the Rule of Galbatorix. But there are many paths ahead of you to that end. I will tell you of only three possible paths. The First path, In your first confrontation with Galbatorix, he's so arrogant, over confidant, and sure of his powers, he under estimates your powers."

Continuing Jason went on to explain. "This leaves him open, and you are able to deliver a fatal attack, ending his reign in one single stroke. The second one has the same end, but the path is very different. The conflict drags on for a hundred years, over the course of that time, I die, Murtagh dies. All the dragon riders die, save you and Galbatorix. Every time you face Galbatorix in battle you are defeated, but managed to escape. A hundred times you are defeated. But you learn more of him each time, until finally by the narrowest of margins to finally fulfill your destiny and slay Galbatorix. But Alagaesia is turned into a Wasteland."

Jason had everyone's attention as he continued to speak. Eragon most of all who was soaking in Jason's words. "The most tragic path, your fall. You and Saphira are captured by Galbatorix. And he breaks you both. Using dark magic he binds you both to his control. Gets unbreakable oaths, and for a hundred, two hundred years makes you do horrible terrible things. Killing men, women, and children with no mercy. During that time he grows over confidant. And he slips in your control providing you a very small hole in which to kill him. You take it, and you succeed, killing Galbatorix and ending his reign. There are many ways your destiny can unfold, not all of them pleasant."

Eragon had paled some what as Angela looked thoughtfully at Jason, "So having told you this Eragon, I hope," Jason turned to Angela and says, "With no offense to Angela, you will avoid having your fortune told to you. Now A dwarf came and told us Orik was waiting for us, all of us. I do not think we should tarry too much longer."

"How will we all get down?" Murtagh asked as Jason caught Angela walking out of the dragon hold. He seemed to catch the smirk on her face.

"Saphira could fly us down one at a time if she is willing," Murtagh said,

"There is the Slide down..." Eragon mentioned,

"A Slide?" Jason asked.

"Yeah there is a slide built into the Vol Turi, runs all the way to the bottom. Orik said it was too narrow and shallow for a human."

"I will take you all down. Jason you first."

Speaking openly Jason said, "Thank you Saphira." He bowed to her as she settled down on her belly, Jason looked at Sunrider as she spoke.

"I wish I was big enough to carry out."

"In time you will be little one, you will be." Jason said as he climbed up on Saphira's back. There he settled into the saddle and he patted her neck. "I'm ready." There she stood up as Sunrider crouched down and there she leaped up into the air and and flew out of the Dragon hold, Saphira followed suit as she cleared the dragon hold with one flap of her wings.

She soared into the air as the wind rushed past his head and robes. This made his robes billow out and flap behind him there he looked around as she circled the mountain, there she spotted Orik and angled down towards him and there she set down softly. Sunrider also flapped her wings, and landed, not quite as gracefully but still she stood tall with Pride. Jason did not wait for Saphira to crouch down, he simply just climbed out of the Saddle and there hopped to the ground. "Thank you for bearing me Saphira." he said respectfully.

Took a moment as Saphira winked her eye at him and she once more took off for the dragon hold. Jason stood at attention as he took note of Orik's stiffness, "Nervous Orik?"

"Yes, After you three meet with King Hrothgar, he is wanting to meet with you, Murtagh, and the Dwarf clan leaders to settle the issues with you and Murtagh. It will not be easy for you to convince them to allow Murtagh to remain here."

"I understand, I thank you for that information. I will have to prepare my arguments carefully."

Orik nodded and said, "You will find them as hard to convince as Stone is to breath with your bare hands."

"There are many ways stone can be broken with bare hands, Throw it off a high cliff onto harder rocks below. That would surely break it." Jason countered as Orik just looked at him. "I used my bare hands to break it, I just threw it over a cliff. Or I could pound at weak point of the Rock against a harder rock."

Orik just looked at Jason and raised one of his Eye brows as Saphira landed once more with Murtagh on her back. Thorn landed Sunrider as the two Rubbed their faces against each other and there Thorn went over to Murtagh and looked around as people were gathering. Jason held his pack containing the Dragon Egg tightly and there he opened his robes to show his lightsaber handles when he saw someone looking at Murtagh with hate. Sunrider looked at the crowd and placed her self between them and Murtagh.

Saphira after Murtagh climbed down nervously Saphira looked over at the crowd forming. She simply lifted her lip to show her teeth and that put off the crowd as she once more took to the Sky. Her simple gesture put most people back as she went to get Eragon. Jason opened his mind allowing him to sense the area around him. Jason worked carefully sensing the intent of various people, for the most part they were simply curious, a few had anger, and some were in awe when they stared at Murtagh and his dragon.

It took less time for Saphira to return then it did to get Murtagh, as she had hurried.

Once Eragon had landed Orik Ran up to Saphira's side. "My King, Hrothgar wishes to see you six. Dismount quickly. We must hurry."

Following Eragon and Saphira, Jason, Sunrider, Murtagh, and Thorn followed Orik into Tronjheim. Murtagh like Jason allowed Eragon and Saphira to take the lead. Eragon asking, "Where will we meet Hrothgar?"

With out missing a beat, Orik said, "In the throne room beneath the city. It will be a private audience as an act of ortho â€"of 'faith.' You do not have to address him in any special manner, but speak to him respectfully. Hrothgar is quick to anger, but he is wise and sees Keenly into the minds of men, so think carefully before you speak. After the meeting, Jason and Murtagh will have to meet with Ajihad, Hrothgar, and the clan leaders in private."

Eragon asked, "Why?"

"To decide what they are going to do with us, let us stay, cast us out, or kill me for Morzan's crimes, what else?"

Eragon stopped as he looked to Murtagh, Jason placed a hand on Eragon's shoulders. "Eragon please trust me, I am sure I can convince them to not harm Murtagh, at the very least."

Eragon looked back at Jason and nodded, "Alright." Once Jason had calmed Eragon some they continued allowing Orik to lead them to the central chamber of Tronjheim, then on to one of the two descending stairways. The right staircase as they walked descended gently curving back around to where they started. The second staircase merged with their's to form one massive cascade of dimly lit steps, one hundred feet before two granite doors. A seven pointed crown was carve across both doors.

Fourteen dwarves stood beside the door, seven on each side, each one held a burnished mattock and wore gem encrusted belts. As the seven of them approached the dwarves looked at Murtagh out of the corner of their eyes, but they pounded the floor with their mattocks and the deep boom filled the chamber echoing upwards as the doors swung open inwardly. A dark hall was well lit to Jason's Force enhanced vision.

"The King Wishes to meet with Eragon and Saphira first, After wards he will summon Jason and Murtagh to meet with him, Ajihad, Brom, and the clan leaders." Orik said with a Bow.

Eragon was unsure but a motion from Jason told him to go on, so with some reluctance Eragon and Saphira entered into the chamber and the doors closed behind them. Jason looked to the guards and then Orik. Murtagh had moved away from the dwarves as Thorn moved over to his side and Laid down watching the Dwarves. Sensing that Murtagh was not up for conversation Jason approached Orik.

"What do you think of think of my chances to convince the clan leaders to allow Murtagh and I to stay?" Orik looked over at Murtagh and then to Jason.

"You will be lucky to convince them to allow knowledge of Farthen Dur to be removed from your minds and be cast out."

"And who do you think in Farthen Dur would have the power to attempt that?" Jason Asked.

"The Twins."

"Them? They will find themselves sorely out classed by me."

"You think you are that powerful?" Orik said fingering is war axe.

"I'm not from Alageasia, but a distant land. I was searching for someone when I was caught in a storm and blown off course." Orik looked at Jason as he looked the Jedi master up.

"How powerful...." Jason cut him off.

"Stronger then the Twins, that is all you need to know." Jason said. Despite attempts by Orik to ask questions Jason refused to answer. Sunrider was settled down beside him. She was growing larger, by how she stood a head over Jason. It took a while perhaps half an hour before the doors opened up and slowly Saphira and Eragon walked out. They looked at Jason and Murtagh nervously.

"They're expecting you four now, be careful." Eragon said.

Nodding Jason held tightly onto the bag at his right still feeling the dragon egg and the life with in. It was impatient, it wanted to be near it's rider. It wanted to hatch, and Jason had a good idea of who it's rider was.

Slowly Jason and Murtagh walked side by side with their dragons on the outside heading into the meeting. The throne room was in a natural cavern; the walls stalagmites and stalactites. Each one as wide as a man, Lanterns were sparsely placed through out the cavern to cast a moody appearance. The floor was brown well polished, and very smooth. In the back Jason could see a figure sitting on a black throne, to his left and right he saw Brom and Ajihad respectively, and along them were thirteen dwarves. The air held one of hostility as he could see the Twins off to one side as well. The intent of them was one of maliciousness.

Their footsteps echoed through out the hall as they advanced towards the throne. In the recesses of the various stalactites and stalagmites resided large statues. Each one was of a Drawf King adored with a crown. A name was carved into the seat below the feet of each set. Forty-one in total, with empty alcoves awaiting the place of future monarchs.

Finally they stopped before King Hrothgar at the end of the hall. The Dwarven King sat like a statute on his throne. The throne was blocky, unadorned, and cut with exacting precision. Jason felt the strength of the throne as he could sense the strength that reached all the way back for untold millennia. In place of a crown was a helm embedded with rubies and and diamonds. To Jason his face was worn, and aged with much wisdom, he had little patience for fools. His eyes were deep set and Jason could see the wisdom in them, there was no point in trying mind trick him, he was too old and wise to fall to such novice tricks. Over his chest he wore a chain mail shirt, and his white beard was tucked into his belt.

Jason respectful of the Kings station Jason opened his arms and bowed respectfully to him as Murtagh brought his feet together placed his left arm behind his back bowed extending his right hand palm up. Jason's bow was less formal then Murtagh but was no less respectful. He had opened his arms wide as if in a welcoming hug with his hands up raised, to show he held no weapons.

"I greet you all in friendship and peace." Jason said, "And I hope we may come toa peaceful understanding and solution to our problems."

King Hrothgar nodded and said "Rise Riders, I thank you for paying me respect, but you need not offer tribute to me. You are in a very delicate position, Rider Jason. It has taken much effort on my part to convince to allow them to permit Eragon and Saphira to stay. However you and Murtagh are a different story. They are demanding Murtagh's Blood, and your expulsion from Farthen Dur." The Rest of the dwarf clan leaders nodded.

"Brom you told me there was an agreement around Saphira's egg, between the Varden, dwarves, and elves?" Jason watched as Brom nodded. "Could you summarize this agreement for me, and the actions of the various groups involved?"

Jason listened as Brom told him of what happened with Saphira's egg. That the Elves did not want the Varden to handle it. How they did not want a human rider. How many of the dwarves clan leaders were opposed to a new rider at all. How they argued and made things difficult, and many were wanting to ensure that the new rider was an ally above all else. Brom told him the agreement was that when the Egg hatched Brom would be sent for to train the new rider. In the event he died before the egg hatched, the elves would be allowed to train the rider unopposed. Jason could see the agreement was slated heavily in favor of the elves, but it allowed everyone to save face.

Understanding graced Jason's mind as he asked King Hrothgar, "King Hrothgar, If a Dwarf clan came to your clan asking, needing help desperately, You turned them away, when you had the full ability and resources needed to provide it.. Now the day comes when you ask this clan for help, what would happen?"

Jason saw a glimmer of amusement in Hrothgar's eyes as a smile crept on his lips and he gave a rolling laugh that sounded like thunder. "You know diplomacy well, so I will tell you truly, The Clan which was turned away will be within their rights to deny my clan help in any matter, great or small." Jason heard some murmuring from the various leaders as Hrothgar continued. "I assume you will hold us to our own standards, denying us any help in the future."

"Indeed, there will also be issues with the Elves, when they learn you cast us out. I could imagine they would not be happy in the least. Then there would be the humans, turning away two dragon riders, Ajihad would do you think would happen?"

Ajihad had crossed his arms over his chest and looked on Jason with respect. "The Humans or the Varden here would not be understanding, We have waited so long for Saphira's egg to hatch. Then when she comes to the Varden, comes with two other Riders. The Varden's hopes are high, when they learned that you have been cast out. There would be violence I fear. The majority of the Varden know by now, that you saved Brom's life. You broke into Galbatorix palace and stole two more Dragon Eggs. They also know Murtagh is Morzan's son. But also Eragon's half brother. Many of them have taken this as a sign that we will be victorious against Galbatorix. To cast you out, would crush their hopes."

Hrothgar nodded as Jason felt the Twins become perturbed as Jason was worming his way out of their anger. "Rider Jason, indeed that why I won't cast you out. The risk of violence between the Varden and Dwarves is too great. As such I will grant you sanctuary within Farthen Dur. Now there is the matter of Murtagh."

"I know of Morzan, I know he was an enemy of the Varden and favored ally of Galbatorix. What would the Dwarves have done had they captured Morzan Alive?" Jason asked as he could feel Murtagh's unease at being spoke about but he remained quiet and fearful. He could also sense the Twins were up to something, something to his detriment.

"Morzan would have been executed, most like after being tortured for an extended period of time." Hrothgar said.

"Had the Dwarves executed Morzan for his crimes, what would have become of Murtagh's now?"

"He would be distrusted sorely, and looked upon with scorn. There would be pushes to have him expelled at the very least." Hrothgar said

"How did Morzan Die?" Jason asked.

"During the hunt for Saphira's Egg, I was able to disarm Morzan and kill him." Brom said. Clearly sparing Murtagh details of his father's death.

"So you killed him as an agent of the Varden, Elves and Dwarves?" Jason asked.

Brom nodded, allowing Jason to continue. "So justice was done to Morzan for his crimes. Yet you want Murtagh's Blood. Why? The only thing Murtagh has done wrong is, carry the blood of an enemy. What crimes has Murtagh committed against the Varden? The Dwarves, the Elves?"

The Dwarves began looking to each other, as the Twins spoke up, "He has been raised by Morzan, and had Galbatorix influence. Perhaps still loyal to Galbatorix as well." The Twins spoke with fluid and conviction. "No doubt the boy is still under the influence of Galbatorix and his magics."

The Twins had won a point in their favor as Jason sought to gain ground once more. "I have felt no enchantments upon Murtagh, no compulsions, his actions are his own." Jason countered.

"You can't be...." One of the two Twins spoke up, only to be cut off by Brom.

"Murtagh has had numerous opportunities to betray us, and he didn't. The same as with Jason, if he was with Galbatorix, he had ample opportunity to turn us over to him. And despite his madness, Galbatorix would never risk his Dragon eggs in a plot to find the Varden, risk them hatching for someone out of his control."

Hrothgar nodded as he said, "And you have offered your protection to Murtagh? I have seen the results of your blades on the Urgals, the Kull and their weapons. Not many would risk you in combat when you would simply cleave through armor and weapons."

"Indeed King Hrothgar, I have given my promise to protect Murtagh, if I have to, I will die to protect him, and while I have an aversion to killing, if it's the only method to protect him. I will. Morzan is dead, let his crimes end with him. If you punish Murtagh for the Sins of his father, then you are doing so simply for the sake of vengeance. Would any of you want your children punished for your sins, your crimes?" Jason looked at the dwarves looking at each other as Jason knew he had it and had to seal this and end all discussion on vengeance against Murtagh.

"Imagine what would happen when the Varden learn you killed Me to get at Murtagh, The rider who brought you Brom safely. Who United two half brothers as dragon Riders. Their mother the same, their father's enemies. Now bound together, as friends and allies. Two riders they hail as hero's and a sign they can not loose." Jason said using the force to enhance his words and make them compelling all the more.

"Imagine them learning I died defending Murtagh from dwarves who wanted him killed. Then they killed Murtagh. All their hopes and dreams shattered with the stroke of a blade. Hrothgar, you know what will happen don't you? You already made your decision, know what would happen? A clan divided can not stand, and this clan has human, elves, dwarves, and dragons. You have all planned, sacrificed, and suffered so much. Are you willing to destroy it all when you have come so far? Only to throw it away over one petty act of revenge. Show your wisdom King Hrothgar, choose your words with care."

Hrothgar looked at Jason for a long time as he thought, his eyes moved to Murtagh, "Murtagh, your father was a monster. If I allowed any harm to to come to you, your half brother Eragon would never trust us. We could never count on trusting him. To get to you, we would have to kill Jason." Hrothgar spoke softly. "If you and Jason died, the results would be catastrophic. The Varden having their hopes so high with you and Eragon as a sign of their victory against Galbatorix, then to destroy it. The Blood shed would stain the floor of Farthen Dur red. The Elves would be out raged, and Jason is right. Everything we worked so hard for would be destroyed. We have labored to bring about the End of Galbatorix, we can't afford to sacrifice it over one petty act of revenge."

Murtagh seemed to be relieved somewhat as he swallowed and dared to ask. "What will happen to me then?" Thorn for the first time seemed to be relaxing as well.

Hrothgar said, "For now nothing. When Arya fully recovers All the Riders along with Me, Ajihad, and Brom will meet with Arya to discuss what will happen with you. Until then you will be allowed to remain with in Farthen Dur, with some restrictions. The first is as Ajihad said. Jason Talben is your protector, but he is also your watcher. He will keep you out of trouble, and from causing trouble." Turning his eyes to Jason Hrothgar spoke firmly.

"You have accepted responsibility for Murtagh, as such you are charged with keeping him out of trouble, and from causing trouble. If he causes trouble, you will also be held accountable for his actions." Once more turned his eyes to Murtagh, "Brom is also forbidden from teaching you anything regarding the Dragon Riders. You are also forbidden from training with the Varden's troops." Hrothgar sighed out, "That is all for now you both may go." Hrothgar seemed tired as if all the weight of his years had come to his shoulders and made him tired. Jason and Murtagh bowed once more.

Jason and Murtagh began to leave Thorn and Sunrider followed them visibly relaxed. When they got outside of the throne room they saw Eragon, Saphira, and Orik waiting. Orik looked a touch surprised as he said, "You not being kicked out?" Eragon and Saphira blinked in surprise.

"Nope. I asked them to remember all they have worked for, fought for, sacrificed, and suffered for. And if they were willing to throw all that away over one act of revenge. Until we talk with Arya and the leaders we are here under his protection." Jason said.

Jason allowed Murtagh to explain what was decided. Orik nodded, and seemed to agree. Jason more or less began to hold into the background. He watched Eragon and Murtagh spoke, "I think I should return to the Dragon Hold, I don't wanna cause any trouble with people. Saphira would you help me return to the Dragon hold?"

Listening to Murtagh, Jason thought and said in a soft voice. "Murtagh, I personally think you would do better getting out and about. Stretching your legs and getting to know these people, but it's your choice if we return to the dragon hold."

"You need a meal."

"We all need a meal. After the hardships we endured in the Desert, you as well Murtagh. But if you return to the dragon hold so will I. I am your guardian, protector and watcher. I can't protect you...."

Looking between Eragon, Jason, and Orik, Murtagh threw his hands up and said, "Alright you win Jason."

"I wouldn't mind seeing more or Tronjheim, but I'm not wanting to head to the training grounds till tomorrow. I'm not fully recovered yet."

"Perhaps you three would care to visit Tronjheim Library? It's quite old and contains many scrolls of great value. You three might find it interesting to read a history of Alagaesia that hasn't been tainted by Galbatorix hand." Orik said, looking over at Eragon, Jason felt something that he couldn't place. But Eragon agreed, Murtagh also looked a bit interested at that.

" What about us?" Thorn asked, mentally. Beside him Sunrider also looked expectantly.

"Perhaps we should let them continue playing, after all it's the first real chance they have had to relax and enjoy themselves." Jason suggested.

After Saphira had nuzzled Eragon she gave him a wink heading up and out with Thorn, and Sunrider. The three of them headed for their meal, and what a meal it was. Jason had eaten almost to the point of gluttony. The drink Meed while he found it bitter was enjoyable. Still he was not to complain on the tastes. To Jason it was a feast, and he thanked the cook as did Murtagh and Eragon. Much to Murtagh's surprise the cook was respectful to him. Finally they entered into the Library as Orik told them of it's contents being the true legacy of the dwarven race. How writings of their greatest kings and scholars, from antiquity to present resided here.

Works of humans as well. He made a comment on how humans were a short lived but prolific race. Jason made a comment, "Well if Humans lived for hundreds of years they wouldn't be so prolific, or constantly changing." Jason got a chuckle out of Orik as he learned how there was little or nothing of the elves, and that disappointed him greatly. After finding out they could stay as long as they liked Jason commented once more.

"I hope the day can come when I could bring in some Jedi Historians. They would love to come in here, document, and debate this." Jason got a chuckle out of Orik.

"I hope they would be willing to share their knowledge as well."

"Depends on what is asked. But they would." After that Eragon, Murtagh, and Jason moved into the Library. Murtaghs noticed how Eragon seemed to be having trouble and had commented on it. To their shock they learned Eragon had only recently learned how to read and write, that his Uncle Garrow had not taught him, that it was Brom who had taught him. From that point on Jason and Murtagh helped Eragon out when ever he had trouble. And soon thanks to their help, was reading at a slow, but decent speed.

As Jason was immersed in a Debate between the Elven scholar Elandor, and the Dwarven scholar Dolandr on the nature of life, he sensed the approach of something familur. The Twins. Jason looked over at Eragon who was immersed in the study of his poem, Jason motioned to Murtagh to remain silent and follow him. There Jason and Murtagh crept off to the side as they remained hidden from Eragon. There he used the force to shroud them both from detection.

In a very soft whisper Jason told Murtagh, "The Twins approach, remain quiet and out of sight. I will explain later." Jason and Murtagh remained quiet as the sound of footsteps filled the hallways.

"Jason, Murtagh?" Eragon said quietly they could hear Eragon walking some as a second set of footsteps joined the first and then they stopped. Jason could feel Eragon's apprehension, the pause was wearing on Murtagh as Jason lifted a finger up to tell him not to make a sound. And there they heard one of the Twins speak.

"We have been searching for you, as well as Rider Jason." His voice reminded Jason of something dark and slimy as he felt Eragon brush against the minds of them both.

"The Twins are here!"

"Do not fear Murtagh and I are both close, and aware of them. Tell them we left the Library. I will explain later."

Jason and Murtagh could not see what the Twins did but they could hear the conversation. Replying to the Twin's question. Eragon asked, "Why?"

One of the twins Spoke, "Ever since you met with Ajihad we have want.... Apologize for our actions." Jason could hear the mocking tone in the voice but it was said in a way which could not be challenged. "We have come to pay homage to you."

Jason could feel Murtagh place his hand on his sword as if to draw it and Jason made a motion for him to stop. Jason took out his lightsaber as Murtagh nodded and smiled following Jason's lead. He could feel Murtagh's protectiveness of Eragon and Eragon's anger at the Twins.

Eragon spoke as he listened, "Nay, it is I who pay homage to you, you were only doing your duty to protect the Varden, and to be confronted with not one, but Three Dragon riders. In your position I would have been cautious as well. You did your duty." Eragon said attempting to make the words sound sincere but Jason sensed the mocking bow to the Twins.

The words that flowed from the lips of one of the Twins was like poisoned honey. "We are honored one so... important... as your self thinks so highly of us. We are in your debt for your kind words."

With some irritation in his voice Eragon said, "I will remember that when I am in need."

"Do you know where Riders Jason and Murtagh are?" One asked interested.

"They left the Library a short time ago." Eragon said.

There was a clear confidence in their voices as they spoke. "Thank you. We have searched you out for another reason as well, Rider. The few magic users who live in Tronjheim have formed a group. We call ourselves Du Vrangr Gata, or the---"

"The Wandering Path, I know." Jason heard Eragon translate it and he shook his head.

Jason sent a quick message to Eragon as a warning. "Next time let them translate, by translating it, you give away your knowledge of the Ancient language, which is your advantage over them."

"I understand, thank you Jason."

One Twin spoke smoothly explaining about their group as Jason listened to why they had sought out Eragon and Jason. Having heard of and seen their mighty feats in combat against the Kull and Urgals, they wanted to offer membership. How they would be honored to have two of their stature as members. And how they might be able to help Eragon, and Jason in return.

Asking how Eragon was genuinely interested in what they had to say. And they spoke about how they had learned much in the way of magical knowledge. How they offered to to help guide him offer to teach him words of power and spells. How nothing more would gladden them if they could assist, Eragon. They also spoke how no repayment was needed, unless if Eragon saw fit to share with them a few scraps of knowledge they would be satisfied.

Jason smiled at Murtagh when Eragon broke all facade. Asking them if they thought he was a half wit. How he would not apprentice himself to them, so they could learn the words Brom taught him. He also openly spoke about how that Brom refused to allow the Twins to examine him, and how that must have angered them when they couldn't probe his mind and steal the words.

The Twins dropped all pretenses, and became hostile at Eragon, Jason was forced to keep Murtagh calm as he moved to the edge of the case to come to Eragon's aid if he needed it. Jason listened to each and every word spoken by the Twins with great care. "We are not to be trifled with, boy! By Ajihad's Orders we will the the ones to test your abilities with magic. And that could be most unpleasant. Remember, it only takes one misconceived spell to kill someone. You may be a Rider, but the two of us are still stronger then you."

Eragon had told them he would consider their offered. And they basically told him they would expect his answer tomorrow and that it had better be the right one. There the Stalked off heading out of the Library leaving Eragon alone, after a while when Jason was sure that he was alone Jason came from around the corner and said.

"Not bad, you handled them well." Jason said.

Eragon looked frazzled as he asked, "Are you scared of the Twins?"

"No."

"Then why did you hide from them?" Murtagh asked.

"You will learn that in time. I will deal with them personally. If you will excuse me, both of you remain together. I will return shortly." Jason began to move off into the library after the Twins.

********

Jason moved around Tronjheim working his way into a secluded corridor of the mountain city which the Twins were walking down so he and they would encounter each other. Jason allowed the Twins to see him walking down a hallway. The Twins had not noticed Jason had jumped up between two walls and was supporting himself with his hands and feet against the narrow wall. There after the Twins turned a corner after walking under him, Jason dropped down. Without a sound he began following them. Suddenly they were confronted by a dead end hallway with no way out and as they looked around confused Jason spoke up, "Oh it's you two."

They jumped around and lifted their hands up as if to cast a spell at Jason who stood there feinting slight annoyance at them. "Next time you two wish to speak to me, do not stalk me. Now I know why you are here, I spoke with Eragon mentally shortly after you left him."

Jason's hard blue eyes bore into the twin's own allowing them to see the wisdom he held, The gaze made the Twins uneasy until he broke the eye contact. There he could see them pulling their thoughts inwards, guarding and protecting them. He could see the anger and contempt in their eyes. They bowed and the move was insolent and insulting as he was un perturbed by their insults.

"Then you know of the Invitation to join our group? Will you accept?" one asked.

"I am Brom's student, not yours. There is nothing you can teach me, that he can't, and he can teach me more then the entire Du Vrangr Gata can."

The Twins Narrowed their eyes as they dropped all pretenses, "You will find we are not to be trifled with, we are the ones who will be testing you in your magic. And we are far stronger then one Dragon Rider, even you."

"In magic you may be stronger indeed, but I don't need to be stronger then you. Just smarter, But my natural powers, The Force is not magic as you understand it, and when you compare your strength against my true power, you even together are a joke, and in two weeks I will have fully recovered."

"You would be wise to reconsider our offer or...." They cut off as Jason opened his robes and put his hand on one of his two lightsaber handles.

"Or what?" he said challenging them.

The Twins eyes opened wide as they saw him place his hand on his sabers and One said, "You will never be welcomed into Du Vrangr Gata."

"Then that is the choice I will accept. Now begone and bother me no more." he said. In all that Jason had not once lost his composure, raised his voice, or showed any hate. To him it was as if he was to deliver a message. Turning to walk away he sensed someone else around the corner. Slowly a woman with the same ebony skin as Ajihad came around the corner as she smiled. She had a dagger on a gold chain around her waist. The leather sheath was well tooled, and worn. She wore a dress as red as Zar'rac's blade.

"You handled the Twins very nicely,"

Seeking to irk the Twins some, "The Twins have proven to me they are no more then a pair of bullies, who dislike the idea of not being the top dogs in the pack. If they try to intimidate me, they will regret it." Jason spoke as if the Twins were not there. His voice calm and assured.

The girl looked to the Twins as she narrowed her eyes at them and said, "You heard Rider Jason, Begone or I shall tell my father you are harassing the Dragon Riders."

The Twins paled and then the slinked by Jason and the girl before scampering off down the hallway. The girl smiled and said with a smirk, "You are not the only one who has learned to deal with them. I am Nasuada, my father Ajihad wanted to thank you for encouraging Brom to spend time with Eragon yesterday. His presence averted a potential disaster."

"Oh, Eragon didn't mention this, what happened?"

Nasuada explained about an old woman who approached Eragon begging him to bless the baby she had been caring for. The words Eragon told Brom he was going to use would have been a curse, not a blessing. Brom had been able to tell Eragon the proper words for a correct blessing.

"I can see I will need to use the utmost care when ever I speak these words of power." Jason was concerned greatly for that with a few words and intent he could effect such changes. "So what can I do for you?"

"Could you deliver a message to Eragon for me?" She asked softly.

Thinking for a moment he smiled and said, "I get the feeling you would rather deliver it in person. Would you mind If I escorted you to the Dragon hold so you may do so?"

Nasuada smiles as he could see the blush on her cheeks despite the darkness. There Jason offered to walk beside her as she said, "Father has another message for you, after your discussion with the leaders and Arya about Murtagh, he wishes you to be tested as well."

"You may tell Ajihad that I will gladly be tested after our discussion, and thank him and King Hrothgar for their hospitality. Also there were two guards who helped me to the Dragon hold, Please tell your father of how they assisted me at their own expense to get there."

She nodded as they entered a service Elevator and began to ride up to the Dragon hold. It took a while as Jason had asked about Arya and if she was recovering well. She was indeed recovering. Finally getting to the Dragon hold Jason found Sunrider, Thorn, and Saphira lounging together. Thorn and Sunrider were sleeping together as Saphira watched over Murtagh who was practicing his swordsmanship. Saphira cocked her brow at Nasuada and Jason.

"Could you tell me where Rider Eragon is?"

"Eragon is looking for something in the Dragon hold, can I help you, miss?" Murtagh said, as he approached Nasuada. Jason smiled as he felt Murtagh was flushed when he met her.

She bowed and said, "I am Nasuada, my father has a message for both you and Eragon."

Jason had felt Eragon approaching from up a set of stairs as he spoke out, "I am here."

Nasuada turned with a jump to face Eragon as she took a moment to relax. "My Father Ajihad has a message for all the riders would you care to hear it?"

The fact Nasuada was Ajihad's daughter surprised both Eragon and Murtagh, Eragon finally said "Of course, Please."

"My father is pleased you are all doing well, but Cautions you all against Benedictions as Eragon did yesterday. They cause more problems then they solve. He also wants Both Murtagh and Eragon to proceed with their respective testings as quickly as possible. So he may convay to the elves your skills."

Eragon listened as he nodded, "Did both of you climb all the way to the top?"

"No we used a pully system that is used to transport goods to the top of Tronjheim. I could have given Jason the message, but I wanted to deliver it myself." She spoke softly.

"Would you like to sit down?" Murtagh offered with a courtly bow of respect.

With a light laugh she said "No, I am expected else where. It was a pleasure meeting all of you so far. I almost forgot, Jason, my wants to meet with you tomorrow as soon as possible. Concerning the Dragon Egg with Brom, and King Hrothgar. Before it gets out of hand. They are wanting to avoid the same chaos that was around Saphira's egg."

"Very well," Jason said, "I will descend to meet with them first thing when I wake up."

"Thank you, Do any of you have a message for my father?"

The first thing Eragon had asked was about Arya. His questions made Nasuada smile with a mischievous nature. "Ayra is recovering quickly as all elves do. No one but my father, Hrothgar, and the healers may see her. They have spent much time with her learning what happened during her imprisonment." She looked at the Dragons, Saphira in paticular.

"I must go now, is there anything you would like me to tell my father on your behalf?"

Eragon had told her to thank Ajihad and Hrothgar for their hospitality, and expressed his desire to see Arya. He had also asked if Brom could be there when the Twins Tested him with magic. Nasuada had to sadly inform Eragon that Brom was busy getting all the information he had been out of the loop during his stay in Carvahal and would be busy for many days to come.

Murtagh told her to extend his thanks to them as well and that they had treated him far better then he deserved. Arya was amused and smile. Finally she had to leave and once she was out of sight Murtagh looked at Eragon and Jason. "Did you see her? I thought she was one of the nobles from the great court of Galbatorix. I've seen noble ladies more fitting to the lives of hogs when compared to her."

Sensing his emotions Jason smiled softly as he spoke, "Why Murtagh, are we infatuated with Lady Nasuada?" The comment made Murtagh blush. "It's ok Murtagh, She was very attractive." Eragon and Murtagh seemed to agree there was more to the meeting then what was implied to pass on a message.

Finally Eragon had asked Jason, "Do you think you could be there when the Twins test me."

"Eragon, they're bullies. You have to treat them as such, if you go there with someone watching over you, like me, or Brom. They will know they can intimidate you and will do so at every opportunity. You can not allow that." Jason spoke as he headed over to his cave and began rummaging through his stuff. There after knowing everything was in it's place Jason looked around, and said, "Here it is." There he pulled a coin out from his pouch of money and there returned to Eragon.

"You heard what they said in the Library." Eragon protested.

"And if they do anything that causes you harm, Ajihad will have their heads and they know it." Jason countered. "But I will help you pass what every tests they make you attempt."

Jason took hold of Eragon's hand and placed the Coin in his left hand. "Brom said that a true master could say the word for water and produce a gemstone because he could draw a line linking the word water, and the end result." Jason watches as Eragon looked at the coin. As he explained "The same is true for simple tasks. The Twins had given themselves away in the library. They want your knowledge of the ancient language. There for you must learn to perform tasks with but a word or two. You must also speak in the lowest possible voice. Now command the coin to raise with a single word."

Murtagh watches Eragon was about to put the coin in his right hand when Jason Stopped him. "No Eragon, use your left hand. The reason is if you fight an enemy who knows about how you channel your magic through your right hand. If they can they will take that hand off of you. I would, so once a day for about a half hour or so I would would like you to practice using your magic through your off hand."

He watched as Eragon look to the coin in his hand and in a soft voice he spoke "Risa." there he watched as Eragon struggled with the coin as it wobbled in the air and after a while Jason nodded pleased. After that short exercise Jason had Eragon perform another series of other wise simple tasks. Simple except for the fact Eragon had to use at most two or three words.

Murtagh had attempted to move off away from the lessons how ever Jason had told him to watch and learn. When Murtagh protested and reminded him of Hrothgar's orders, Jason reminded Murtagh Hrothgar had said Brom was not allowed to train him. Hrothgar had said nothing of Jason or Eragon teaching him. It took about an hour for Eragon to complete the tasks, and when Eragon was stumped Jason helped him along the way to learn how to do the exercises.

Jason kept the exercises short and simple. By the time he was done Eragon had more of a mental work out then a magical one. Eragon sat down to get something to eat, "Thanks with what you taught me I should be able to handle any test the Twins try to test me with."

Jason nodded as he allowed Eragon and Murtagh to rest and relax while he went to his cave to rest and meditate.

**************

When Eragon and Murtagh had begun to stir Jason was already up. Eragon and Murtagh when their eyes focused on the movement were able to see the black form of Jason in his black robes performing complex fighting moves. Jason was striking with hand and foot, kicking, punching in open air. Even in the faint lamplight Jason struck with with grace, speed, and strength.

A number of ducks, dodges and even flips where performed as his robes always stayed out of the way as if they had a mind of their own. Finally Jason ended his routine with a swift kick to the head of the enemy as Jason stood up and straightened his robes. With his back to Eragon and Murtagh he spoke softly, "I'm sorry if my training disturbed you."

"It's ok. It's time for us to start getting up." Murtagh said. Jason slowly began to approach them.

"Eragon, Murtagh. I want you two to have something." he said and there reaching into his pockets he pulled out two necklaces. Each one on a chain of fine gold held in his hand. Dangling at the bottom of the chain was a Stone. Each one held a jewel at the bottom. One was blue, the other red. "One is the Ankarres Sapphire, the other is the Kaiburr Crystal."

Saphira along with Sunrider and Thorn finally crawled of their cave. Saphira and Thorn came over to inspect the gems. "These two gems helped me keep my mind clear and made my healing powers more potent, during my adventures. I hope they will serve you well in the coming years." Jason said and offered them to Eragon and Murtagh. "Keep them secret, keep them safe. I hope neither of you will need them." Eragon an Murtagh took the necklace which held the gem which matched the colorations of their dragons.

Jason watched as they came up to inspect their gems and much to Jason's surprise began to glow with a bright inner light as he just smiled sensing the magic flowing from Saphira and Thorn into the Crytsals and then into their Riders. Nodding Jason said, "I need to go, Ajihad, Brom, and Hrothgar are almost ready for me, I should be prompt. Eragon, Murtagh when you two are done with your testings, I want the both of you to join me for this meeting, you have as much right to be there to discuss the fate of this Dragon Egg as I do." Jason said as he went over to check his bags and retrieve the dragon egg and the bag.

As Jason was about to leave Eragon and Murtagh both thanked him as he and Sunrider headed to the service Lift so he could descend to the bottom. The ride down was peaceful and uneventful as he reached the bottom with Sunrider. Finally the pair of them began to walk out as he heard Sunrider speak.

"Are you sure it was wise to give them such powerful gifts?"

"No I am not, but If what I hope comes true they will need them." he replied. Slowly the two continued on their way until he heard someone call out his name.

"Rider Jason!" He heard from Orik as he hurried up to him. "You here to meet Ajihad, Brom and Hrothgar?" Once Jason confirmed it Orik said. "This way." Jason and Sunrider followed him up some stairs and to a room with two heavy iron doors. The door had eight heavily armed dwarves on either side. One of the dwarves came up and smiled.

"King Hrothgar, Brom, Ajihad and the others are waiting for you. But first your weapons please?" The Dwarf smiled as he held out his hand. Jason was instantly struck with suspision as he nodded.

"Of course." Reaching down Jason unhooked both his lightsabers and handed them to the dwarf. He watched the Dwarf place them in a bag in his belt as the Dwarves pounded the ground once allowing the doors to open. As Jason and Sunrider behan to head in he used the force to reclaim his lightsabers from the bag as they slid up his sleave. He used the force to keep wait on the bag so the dwarf with think he still had both of them.

Once inside he found it was very well decorated. A large table with a large number of seats surrounded it. Like so many others it was seemingly carved out of the ground and he smiled as he saw Brom, Ajihad, Hrothgar and the other dwarf lords in the room. They were armed and armored as Jason could sense the tenseness in the room. Concern and some trepidation filled them.

"Stay on guard Sunrider."

"Of course Jason."

With respect Jason bowed as he held the bag holding the Dragon Egg. Sunrider inclined her head as she watched the dwarves and the others. "Greetings, I hope the new day has greeted you well." Jason looked at them as he remained on guard as he heard the door behind them lock and seal. Jason was effectively trapped. Opening his senses Jason could sense an object with great energy in here. Instantly he narrowed it down to Brom and a ring he was wearing.

"Jason, Brom, Hrothgar and I are going to have to take the Dragon egg from your possession." Ajihad said.

"Quite a vivid imagination you have to assume I will just hand it over to you." Jason replied. "What can you tell me, to convince me to turn it over to you?"

Brom spoke up as he said with some trepidation, "You are without your weapons. And I have the strength and power to kill you if that is what it takes." He said as Sunrider raised on her hackles and there turning his eyes to Brom.

"I know you do Brom." And with that Jason jerked his hand up and summoning the Force he yanked the ring off of Brom's finger making him cry out as the ring flew through the air and into Jason's Hand. "But not anymore I presume. I sensed great power in this room, and I felt it in this ring you wore."

Brom was holding his hand as he looked in shock at Jason as he held his ring in his fingers and just as he was about to summon the power to yank it back Jason dropped it into his hand clenching his fist and opened it as the ring was gone. Ajihad and the dwarves had gotten to their feet. And were reaching for their weapons.

Looking at them all Jason narrowed his eyes as he allowed his right hand to jerk down and in one of his hands appeared one half of his Lightsaber. Activating it, the Blade ignited brightly as Jason slowly brought it up in a show of defiance. "I knew this would happen so after I gave my sabers to the guard I retrieved them." Narrowing his eyes as he watched the Dwarves stand back. "And if you think you can intimidate or frighten me, think again. I am not a farm boy like Eragon."

Jason turned his saber off and lowered it. Sunrider seeing things were settled down she Jumped up on the Table and spoke her mind to them all, her words sharp, clear, but with out malice. "Unlike the lands of Alagaesia, the lands my rider comes from, has an order. An order dedicated to the well being of all. Those who display a gift of his powers, and if it is strong enough. They are taken from birth and trained. My Rider was trained like this. I have seen who he is, I have seen what he can do, what he has done. And the extend of his natural powers."

Sunrider narrowed her eyes at Brom, Hrothgar, and Ajihad, "You three know not the extent of his powers, but I do and I tell you this truly, there is only one man who can match and may exceed the power of my rider. That is the false King himself, Galbatorix. And you Brom a former Dragon Rider you shame your self. Allowing the dwarves to force you into this when you know it is wrong, you shame all dragon riders, even your son Eragon."

All eyes went to Brom when Sunrider commented on Eragon being Brom's son. Ajihad looked at Brom as he said, "Is this true, are you Eragon's father?" Brom's eyes opened wide as he looked to Ajihad and the Hrothgar.

"Have you told Eragon?" Brom asked fearfully.

"No I have not." Said Jason, "He's not ready to learn that. Tell me Brom, Was your dragon blue like Saphira?"

Once Brom nodded Jason exhaled as Sunrider climbed down and she kept her eyes locked on the dwarves. "The Final piece of the puzzle has been placed. Your dragon was Blue, as is Saphira, your son's dragon. Morzan's Dragon was red, as Thorn is for Murtagh. The only more Ironic thing would be if Murtagh's dragon was blue and Eragon's red."

Jason sat down and looked at the group as Hrothgar looked from Brom to Jason, "Are you going to give us the Dragon Egg?"

Looking at Hrothgar, Jason said "You can have it when you pry it from my cold dead fingers. Or if Arya challenges me for the right of guardianship, and claims it from me."

One of the dwarf clan leaders stood up and spoke, listening to his tone, how he spoke and the look on his face told Jason he was lying, this coupled with his intent. "You can't beat Ayra. By simply turning the Dragon Egg over to us you will save your self humiliation when you are brutally defeated at her hands."

Brom watched as Jason began to handle the dwarf as he closed his eyes. "Well then I eagerly look forward to finding a real challenge." Jason had chosen not to tip his hand on the dwarves lies. "It has been many a year since I have had anyone prove a stalwart challenge to me in a fight. And If she is indeed as skillful as you claim she is a better protector for the dragon egg then I am. I am not ashamed to admit when I need help nor out classed."

The dwarves were seething beneath their hard surfaces, Jason knew that had he been unarmed they would have attacked. "The only reason you want the Dragon Egg is so you can lock it up in a vault secure knowing that as long as it remains there it can't hatch." That put the dwarves on the defensive, "I can see my guess was correct."

Hrothgar, Ajihad and Brom looked at the Dwarve clan leaders and then back at Jason as Hrothgar then looked at Jason and asked. "What are you?"

"I am am that which you choose to make me out to be. But I would rather have true enemies over false friends. I can sense the hate from them, see it in their eyes. Tell me why I should not stand up and leave Farthen Dur taking Eragon, Saphira, Murtagh, Thorn and this Dragon Egg with me. And don't tell me it would be suicide, I have gotten out of worse situations then this. And remember I am at full strength now. And you don't know what I am capable of Hrothgar."

Jason's eyes burrowed deeply into the eyes of the Dwarf king as both seemed to have a staring contest. Each other attempt to see if there would be a bluff, or bolster. Time seemed to crawl as Hrothgar could not see any bluff in Jason's eyes as he said, "Because we can't fight and defeat Galbatorix with out the help of a Dragon Rider. Now that we have three, we would be fools to turn them away. We will never have an opportunity like this again."

"Wisely spoken, I have a question for you. How can I be certain that our dragons, and we riders will be safe in Farthen Dur?"

Hrothgar as well as the dwarves seemed to be taken a back by the question. Jason could sense they had been insulted. Despite their anger the one dwarf who had lied to Jason said, "We have laws concerning guests. That law forbids any dwarf from harming a guest, no dwarf would break this law." Despite the anger he projected with each word all the dwarves nodded.

Hrothgar looked at Jason, "Now you answer me this, if we defeat Galbatorix. What will you do? Will you seek the throne in Uru'Baen?"

Jason shook his head, "I have no desire for power. Power is an illusion, those who crave power are enslaved by it. Once Galbatorix is defeated, I will have my hands full attempting to quell the fighting ending rebel insurgence, and trying to help reestablish the new Dragon Riders' order laying the ground work to ensure the Dragon Riders can return. I will be far too busy to think of ruling, but if no competent leader for Alagaesia can be found. I will help set up a democracy."

Jason found him self explaining what a democracy was , and they seemed to be thinking about it. Finally came a loud pounding on the door, slowly the door unlocked and slowly swung open to show a dwarven guard. Showing Arya inside, Jason turned to look at her. She was dressed very simply with brown leather garments and a leather band. She was tall and graceful carrying herself with grace and pride. As the doors opened further allowing Eragon, Saphira, Murtagh and Thorn to walk in.

Hrothgar said, "This meeting was to private between us...."

In a sharp cool voice, Arya spoke. "Rider Jason told them that they have as much right to determine the fate of the Dragon Egg, as much as we do. He is correct." Arya walked in and she looked to Jason and finally to Sunrider. She approached Sunrider and spoke the same words Jason had spoken to Saphira when she had attempted to attack him. Sunrider bowed her head slightly as she settled down. The doors had closed once more and relocked. Eragon approached Jason and he narrowed his eyes.

"You should have told me you suspected the Twins of being the traitors in the Varden. You almost got me killed."

"What happened Eragon?" Brom asked.

Eragon explained how the Twins tested Eragon's magic skills and his competency in various ways, including how Jason had helped Eragon irritate them to no end. Brom had smiled when he looked at Eragon proudly. But when Eragon had told Brom they wanted him to summon the essence of silver, he exploded.

"They did WHAT?" Brom shouted the last part as Ajihad stood up.

"What is it Brom?"

When Brom explained that by speaking the true name of something and how it grants total control of the object in question. And that at his stage attempting such a feat would have most likely killed Eragon had he attempted it, if not incapacitated him for days.

Ajihad looked Angry as he turned to Jason, "Seems you were right about the traitors not willing to stay out of your affairs. I will have the Twins brought and examined by Arya at once."

"No." Jason Shouted with the strength of the Force backing. "Leave them alone, for now."

All eyes went to Jason as Ajihad had asked, "Are you insane?"

"No I am just experienced in tactics. If we confront the Twins now, who ever their contact is will realize they have been exposed. And they will rush to attack, giving us fewer hours to prepare for the coming assault."

"What assault?" Hrothgar asked

There Jason explained about what he sensed in the Dragon hold, being watched. How he used his own powers to back track it to Durza and the Ra'zac. And then explained his plan. That it was to allow the Twins if they are the traitors, to continue. There if the Twins were the traitors and confronted they could report everything was normal, giving Durza the belief that he could properly prepare his forces. If the twins are the traitors, once Durza realized they had been compromised, he'll rush his forces knowing the Varden will expect an attack. Because Durza would not wait allowing the Varden, Dwarfs and more importantly The Dragon Riders time to recover.

He convinced Ajihad to begin making perpetrations to move the non combatants out while Jason inspected the Varden's and dwarven soldiers, with the Twins as his assistants. Keeping them busy and allowing them to get information on him while the Varden make secret preparations. And with Jason inspecting the troops, they will be ready.

"A very dangerous plan, but the best we have to work with. You sure you can keep the Twins focused on you?" Arya spoke.

Jason just smiled to Arya, "Eragon, I am sorry for placing you at risk, but I made sure you were never in any real danger. Now we have something else important to discuss, The Dragon egg." Jason reached into his Pack and there slowly and carefully brought out the Emerald Dragon Egg and set it in a small depression on the table so it could not roll away. "Now Arya, do you wish to challenge me for guardianship of the dragon egg?"

Looking at the Dragon Egg slowly approached it. "As a Dragon Rider it is your right to carry and protect it more then mine. On behalf of the elves I extend out thanks. We now have a much stronger chance of finally dethroning Galbatorix once and for all. But yes we must discuss what to do with it. And I hope we can be more civil about it then last time."

Jason sat down with Sunrider beside him as Murtagh and Thorn on the right side of Jason with an empty seat between them. There Jason offered the middle seat to Eragon. "So Eragon, Saphira what do you think should happen with the Dragon egg?" Jason asked much to the surprise of everyone including Arya, only Eragon and Saphira were most surprised.

"Why would you ask us?" Eragon asked.

"Because you are our leader." Jason said. Just as eragon was about to speak Jason spoke up once more. "Eragon, you and Saphira are the Elders. Even though physically and mentally you are younger then me you are the oldest dragon rider, You know more then I and Sunrider do. My own training has been sporadic. I am also not native to Alagaesia, Murtagh must still prove himself. You are our leader, You can not escape your destiny."

"I didn't ask for any one this, I am certainly no leader. I don't want to be a leader." Eragon Protested.

In a soft spoken voice Jason smiled and said. "A wise man once said he who does not want power, may have it thrust upon them. They who do not seek to lead, by be chosen to lead. Wipe these thoughts from your mind Eragon. You in time will be come who you are destined to be." Jason said sensing a change in the Dragon egg. "But rest assured I will not let you, nor Murtagh fall prey to the intimidations or manipulations of neither Human, Dwarf, nor Elf." Eragon Sat down as he looked to the Dragon Egg, and then to the people across the table which Eragon could see them almost glaring at Jason.

Ajihad looked at Jason allowing him to see the ever so subtle smirk. He could also sense Ajihad was pleased. As he spoke, "Still we must decide what to do with the Dragon egg. Eragon I have with me a copy of the contract between the Varden, Dwarves, and Elves regarding Saphira's egg. Once you look it over, The Varden are wanting to simply place the Green Dragon Egg into where we lost Saphira's Egg."

"I do not foresee any objections on the part of my Queen. Do the Dwarves have any objections?" Arya asked.

The Dwarves looked at each other as Jason could sense them already thinking and working hard to cause trouble as Jason sensed it was time. Placing his hand on his mouth and cough so loud as to attract everyone's attention as he spoke. "I'm sorry but I am afraid that arguing about this contract and the Dragon Egg is all moot now."

There was an out burst from the dwarves as Hrothgar ended it with a slamming of his fist. "And why is this discussion moot?"

"Because the Dragon egg is Hatching." And When Jason said that all eyes went to Jason then the Dragon egg. A moment after their Eyes locked on the egg a loud clear peep escaped from the egg. Everyone recoiled from the Egg as Brom looked to Jason. "You knew Arya was the fourth Rider?"

"I suspected yes." The entire room was silent as Arya looked at Jason and when he nodded Arya went up closer to the table as Ajihad and Brom were also close It took a moment but after some silence another peep erupted as Arya looked down at the egg. There the egg began to wobble some, as Thorn, Sunrider, and more importantly Saphira came to watch. Jason could sense the resentment of the Dwarves as they felt cheated.

The Egg settled down. And it was a few more minutes before the Egg rocked once more and then exploded. From the flying of egg shells came the emerald green dragon. The young dragon squawked as Arya watched with a serene beauty. There she held up her left hand offer her palm. She was calm and steady willingly accepting as she had opened her self up.

Like Sunrider and thorn had been the hatchling was about the length of his forarms as Jason spoke softly to Sunrider, "No pouncing this one." that got a little chuckle from Murtagh. The Little dragon looked around those emerald green eyes on Jason for a moment then slowly looking to the other riders and their dragons it turn. Before long they settled squarely on Arya. There the hatchling slowly stood up as it began to approach Arya on unsteady legs.

The Hatchling was unstable as it approached Arya and there it sniffed her hand and finally it leaned up and touched it's nose to the palm of her hand. Unlike with Murtagh she did not fight it and willingly embraced the surge of energy and power. There was a flash of light from her hand a green one as she and her dragon were bonded.

It took a while but Arya soon recovered from the bonding as her hand now held the same marks on their hands. Arya turned to face Jason as she was about to speak, Jason shook his head. "There is nothing to say, no debt owed, nothing I desire. Save you remember my words. Just as I will not let Eragon, Saphira, Murtagh, and Thorn fall to the manipulations of others, so too, shall I protect you. Even at cost of my own life."

Arya was taken aback by Jason's statement as Jason turned to face Ajihad and Hrothgar.. "By your leave and permission I would like to begin putting our plan into motion." Hrothgar and Ajihad simply stared at Jason as everyone was. And finally they nodded, as Jason was told to take Orik as well with him and the Twins. As Jason turned to leave the room he stopped for a moment and said, "Brom Catch." Jason said and tossed him back his ring over his shoulder.

**********************

Farthen Dur was in something of a panic. Jason's plan had come undone with one event. A Dwarf had rushed out of the caves, bloodied, panicked and nearly incoherent. Finally when he had been able to get calmed down. They found out a massive Ugral Army was preparing to attack Farthen Dur, not from over ground, but under it. Just as Jason had prepared to inspect the Varden's Troops with help from Orik and the Twins.

Finally Jason walked up to the battle tent where Ajihad, Hrothgar, Murtagh, Arya, Eragon were. A few others came up as Ajihad introduced, his second in command, Jormundur. The Twins were right behind Jason as he could sense their interest raise, watching and listening intently.

"What's the Situation." Jason asked as he came over to see a full map of Alagaesia. There Jason saw Ajihad pointing to a city "Less the an hour ago a dwarf ran out of the tunnels and claimed he was escaping an Urgal army. He came from the tunnels from Orthiad, A city that was abandoned by the Dwarves after Tronjhiem was completed. The Urgals are attacking from under ground, not over it."

"I see." Jason Said as he looked as a new map was brought up to him. One of Farthen Dur. As Jason's mind worked everyone watched him. Finally Jason straightened up, turned to the Twins, and asked point blank.

"What did Durza or Galbatorix promise you two in exchange for your betraying the Varden."

The accusation caught everyone by total shock, the Twins recoiled in shock, horror and fear. Jason's suspicion was confirmed as the color drained from their skin. And then after a moment they turned to anger, and screamed, "How Dare you accuse us of betraying the Varden! What proof do you have?!"

At that moment everyone started to draw their weapons and when the Twins realized everyone was looking at them they shrunk back frightfully. There Ajihad said, "Jason, present your evidence for these accusations." Ajihad had an Air of command about him as the Riders and Dragons took up positions as if to prevent any escape by the Twins.

Bowing to Ajihad, Jason said, "As you wish, but please remember. Where I come from, the evidence I am about to present would be considered circumstantial evidence at best, not enough to warrant a direct charge of treason. But given the circumstances The evidence warrants them under suspicion."

Jason began to explain what happened between him and the Twins in the tunnel, when he first arrived. Next came his sense of being watched in the dragon hold, how he followed it back seeing Durza and the Ra'zac. Finally he had reported what happened in the library between Eragon and the Twins word for word repeating what the Twins had said. Finally Jason relayed his own encounter with the twins and how Nasuada could verify it. Then Jason asked Arya as she had been present at the testing of Eragon.

Ayra detailed how the Twins tested Eragon with a number of underhanded tactics, and finally asked of him something they could not do, yet only a master could do. Summon the essance of Silver. Brom chimed in at that point, stating that had Eragon attempted the feat, it would most likely have killed him. Jason then pointed out that at last there was this attack which had not been announced would have most likely caught everyone off guard, with their greatest asset in battle, Saphira removed.

A deep throated growl came from Saphira as she approached. Eragon narrowed his eyes at them as Ajihad spoke. "Our allies have been persecuted with near perfect accuracy. The only way this could happen is if someone privy to all the secrets of the Varden. You two are the only ones left to suspect. And Jason is right, all he has is circumstantial evidence. But it is enough to warrant you under suspicion."

The Twins looked at Ajihad it was clear to everyone they were scared and they tried to mask it with Anger. "We have faithfully served the Varden for years and this is how you reward us!?" One Shouted out.

"Ajihad you explained that you had people examined, is there anyone in the Varden powerful enough to examine the minds of the Twins?" Jason asked.

"We have already been examined when we realized someone was a traitor in the Varden." The other Shouted, "Are you going to suggest that you examine us?"

"No, as your accuser I can't examine you, any thing I found would be suspect." Jason said as Ajihad spoke up.

"Brom and Arya have the skill." Jason noticed instantly how they paled from fright, Jason sought to push that.

"Look at how scared they have become, the idea of Brom and Arya probing their minds. Terrifies them." They turned their heads to Jason as he stroked chin and said, "Brom Arya, would you examine them both at the same time here and now?"

Jason could sense their emotions turning to absolute terror, in fear one said after a short time, "I volunteer to be examined first by Brom, not Arya." The fear in his voice was evident. He noted that at last there was some form of bond between these two, and Jason spoke.

"Arya will you examine the other one." Jason got an instant reaction.

"No one at a time." they yelled. "We have a special, and the examination is a painful ordeal, we feel the pain the other feels through out special link. While one is examined, the other will use his power to shield the probed from the pain."

Jason's eyes instantly opened and he said, "Or shield and hide secrets from detection." And in that instant eyes went wide as Ajihad said in reply

"Brom, Arya examine them both at the same time." As the twins realized both were about to be exposed they dropped all presences and turned to Jason, shouting.

"Traitor!" they screamed and Jason felt a well of energy in them both as one turned to him, and the other to Eragon. He felt the deadly intent of both as Arya began to move her intent was to kill them as Jason moved faster. With a thrust of his hand he gave a shove with the Force as they were lifted up off the ground and pushed back into a large rock. When they both hit it they collapsed to the ground dazed.

Everyone was on guard as the Twins tried to recover. Jason speaking up firmly, "We need them alive, we need them to talk, there may be other traitors in the Varden we don't know about." Taking matters into his own hands, Jason lifted his hand and once more used the force. Drawing on his training with stats effects Jason invoked the art of Morichro. Through the force he began to slow the bodily functions and processes.

The Twins had almost recovered as they slumped to the ground, Jason used the force to once more enforce his hold till they were in a state of suspended animation. Once he was sure that the art had taken full effect spoke. "They're not dead, just sleeping. Ajihad your guards may take them to a holding room. And tell your guards that any harm falls upon these two I will hold them personally responsible."

Everyone was looking at Jason as Sunrider came up to him. "You presume a lot to just give me orders. I am the leader of the Varden, not you."

"Only because the twins have most likely given Durza images of us. Allowing Durza to be watching us here and now. And I have plenty of experience with battles and battle field tactics. You will be ill advised to not listen to my tactics. That and as I understand it, the twins were in charge of examining the minds of the Varden and there could very well be other traitors in the varden we do not know about."

Ajihad sought to try and argue, but held his tongue. "Very well."

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Jason listened to the plan which he was impressed with. The plan was so collapse all but three tunnels to funnel the Ugrals out into areas which could contain them. Sealing Tronjheim from the outside in. To prevent the Ugral from securing it. Allowing the Urgals to be dealt with. Jason had made some small changes to the plans taking Saphira into account. Eragon and Saphira would attack from the Sky Dropping loaded of spears onto the cave they get from the Dragon Hold. Allowing them to stay air borne and active. There would be water and food as well. Arrows and stocked quivers for Eragon to resupply with.

The real trouble with the plan was when Ajihad had insisted that He, Murtagh, and Arya along with their dragons would accompany the women and children to escape. Ajihad refused to risk their lives in the coming battle. Arya said firmly she would remain, Murtagh also refused. Jason of course had said he would stay. Jason explaining what Durza and the Ra'zac had said. Jason explained how Eragon was in danger, that while Galbatorix wanted them all alive. Jason also explained how he would deal with Durza and the Ra'zac himself.

The ensuing argument had lead to Jason's current predicament. While Farthen Dur was getting ready for battle with the Ugrals Jason was in the middle of semi-circle with Arya standing opposed to him insisting she will prove he is no match for Durza much less the Ra'zac. Jason had removed his over robe and looked impassively at the Elf. She was graceful, and fast. Taking hold of his lightsaber Jason began to approach Arya. "We should be saving our strength, not wasting it on this foolish display of pride and skill."

"For all your wisdom you need to be taught a lesson in humility Stranger to Alagaesia, and I will be the one to teach it." She said impassively.

Arya drew her sword as Jason shook his head and closed his eyes allowing the force to guide his actions. The moment Jason closed his eyes Arya struck. Letting the Force guide him he activated his saber as Arya attacked. As she Swung her sword Jason lifted his saber up and with one hand blocked her blade. The Fact that her blade was not cleaved in two by his saber forced Jason to recoil as his block was two weak and he was forced to move and Adjust, her raw strength also surprised him as she was many times stronger then her frame belied. Allowing his motion to continue he went with the flow spinning back around as Arya Pressed her attack.

Arya swung her sword to try and cut Jason's shirt open as his blade clashed and blocked hers with a firm clash. If Arya was surprised at the fact of how fast Jason was, she did not betray it, nor when he stopped her attack single handed. One hand on his saber handle as he looked at her while everyone was in shock. Jason's comment, "Is that all?" Jerking back Arya once more resumed her onslaught.

Jason used the Force to bolster his strength and his speed as he made careful reserved motions in the Soresu stance. His motions were smooth and measured as he began to learn Arya's movements. Her fighting style was not one he was familiar with and The pure defensive stance of Sorseu. Jason allowed the Force to guide his motions as he also watched and learned Arya's fighting stance. Soresu did it's he could sense her frustration growing. Soon Jason felt a pressure on his mind as if she was trying to probe his mind and Jason drew on the force to bolster his mental defenses into an iron wall with no weakness.

After another exchange of blows which Jason easily deflected. He watched as she took hold of her blade with both hands as he pushed her off still wielding with one hand Jason could see no flaw in her defenses so he would have to make one. There he said, "I thought you would be an impressive fighter. Here you are unable to to so much as touch me." Arya made no note as to his taunt.

Once more Arya attacked swinging her blade as Jason parried and blocked with a clash of energy on metal and the flash of light. Move after move Jason blocked and parried. Once in a while he would counter attack to probe a perceived weakness in her style and she blocked. And there after a blade lock Jason used the Force to push Arya back away from himself as he shifted a stance into a more aggressive one. "I have been learning how defend myself when most children are still learning how to read and write. I am more then able to handle Durza and the Ra'zac by myself. This duel is over."

Jason turned off his lightsaber and began to walk away. Arya rushed at Jason's turned back and then Jason chose to end this as he activated his saber and turned around swinging his saber down and up before Arya got close. The attack would have left him wide open had he not summoned the Force to finish the attack. A wall of force slammed into Arya over powering her with raw power as she was picked up and hurled away well out of the testing area knocking her some hundred meters or so away. Jason had carefully selected her landing spot to be a thick pile of mud so she would not injure her self upon landing, to which he was not surprised she landed on her feet.

"I said this fight was over." Turning to Ajihad he said firmly. "When I face Durza and the Ra'zac I will do so alone. If Eragon, Arya, or Murtagh involves themselves for the reasons of revenge, one shall reap a terrible harvest. If they follow my plan, they will be safe." Everyone just stared at Jason as he looked at them, "We need to prepare for the Urgal attack, move it." Jason nearly shouted.

******************

Jason surveyed the battle formations, he stood on the top of the Dragon hold looking down from his perch. All but three tunnels had been collapsed, Each one far enough away they could not reinforce their allies. With his help Jason had pulled down parts of the Volcano side in sheets and had dropped them into the ground forming a funnel, High enough that it would force them into a narrow passage, and thick enough that Kull could not bash through it with ease. They could but it would take time.

The groups were ready with the light fading and artificial lights being placed. He could see that Eragon and Saphira were armored. And they had taken off planning to arrive in the dragon hold soon. Arya who had also been with Eragon had finished laying protective wards around Eragon and Saphira. The battle command group would be lead by Brom, Ajihad, and Hrothgar. Saphira would dive bomb the forces dropping spears, rocks and such down on the Urgal forces.

Everything had been transferred to the Dragon hold Jason had requested. Quivers with arrows for Eragon, water some food for fast eating. The steady flapflap of Saphira's wings as she landed in her full armor. When she landed Jason turned his head watching Saphira lower her self so Eragon and Arya could dismount. Arya began approaching Jason, "You are a fool to think you could handle Durza and the Ra'zac together alone. Even a Elf would be hard pressed to handle them."

"I'm not an elf, I am a Jedi Master."

"Jedi, I know nothing of this order you clam to be master of." Arya said as Jason heard Sunrider speak up as she leap down to the floor below from her cave. Thorn right beside her as she spoke.

"Then you should know that a Jedi Master is one of the wisest, most powerful beings where my rider comes from. Jason's skills in battle are unparalleled in Alagaesia. Neither Shade, Ra'zac, nor elf can match him. You yourself found out he is skilled in battle held you off with one hand." Slowly she approached Arya.

"Are you not worried your Rider will get himself killed?" Arya said aloud to Sunrider.

Thinking for a moment Sunrider said, "Yes I am worried for him, frightened even. But unlike Eragon, My Rider is not untested, untrained. I have seen many of his battles, from his memory and his mind. And I know in my heart he will be alright."

Arya looked at Sunrider as she said "If you are sure he can deal with them, then I will not interfere."

Jason could sense the anger building in Eragon as he said with anger. "The Ra'Zac killed my uncle, I have a right to kill them. You can't simply deny me my right of vengeance...." Jason sharply cut him off.

"Don't you remember your sparing with Arya?" Jason said turning around and bore into him with his own blue eyes. "She help you off like an amateur swordmen fighting a master. As I understand it, Durza and the Ra'zac are just like that. Arya wasn't even trying to harm you. I doubt Durza and the Ra'zac will be as nice."

"I have Saphira." Eragon countered.

"Do you think they will pick a location to fight where you can bring her to bear on them? No they will choose a place where they know she can't get into, or fight effectively. I know, because it's what I would do if I fought against Galbatorix. Someplace enclosed, cramped, narrow so he can't have his own dragon fight me. And then they will flay you as easy as you flay a fish."

As Jason finished his argument the sound of footsteps approached them as ten guards came up the stairs. Five of them humans, five of them dwarfs. The human leader spoke, "Rider Jason, as per your orders, we sealed Tronjheim's levels."

As he approached them Jason said, "Good work men, now I do not know your views of Morzan, nor his son Murtagh. I know Murtagh is not popular among the Varden, nor the Dwarves." Jason said looking at them able to see some resentment in their eyes. "The time has come to put aside those feelings. The future of Alagaesia rests on our, your shoulders. Three dragons are depending upon you, Sunrider, Thorn, and Arya's Dragon. They can not defend themselves. You have been chosen to defend them, because you are among the best, if not 'the' best. You ten are the last line of defense for the Varden's future. Now go rest, you have earned it."

Once they heard Jason's little speech they went over to a cave As Thorn came up and pushed his head into Murtagh's hand affectionately. They headed over to the barrels which had been brought to the Dragon Hold. According to Jason's plan he checked the contents, Slick oil was in them. Not the burning kind, It was more like grease. "Remember Saphira you need to make sure when you drop these barrels they land on the Funnels with the Urgals."

Nodding once as Murtagh came up. "I don't understand. I know the use of burning oil for a weapon, but this?" he said.

Smiling Jason took out a small amount and tossed it on the floor of the Dragon Hold. "Try walking on it." He watched as Murtagh put a foot on it and instantly slipped as he struggled to regain his footing took him a bit but he was able to get to one of the caves to clean his boot.

"Ingenious." Arya said.

"Would work better on a solid surface like this, but it should help keep the Urgal army for a short time." Jason continued to inspect items including bundles of spears Saphira could grab, and drop on the Urgals. There were large quivers of arrows so Eragon could restock. Jason checked the large quivers which were to be attached to Saphira's side. Hastily made they would work and Jason had taken the time to ensure they would slide off and on with ease.

They each held forty arrows. With twenty arrows per quiver, for Eragon himself he was well armed and would not need his magic. Arya and Brom had placed Wards around Eragon and Saphira so they would be reasonably safe from magic assault. With Arya riding with Eragon they three would be a force. Finally once Jason was certain that everything was done as could be done Jason went over to his dragon cave and began to get out a Green crystal, on a gold chain..

Slowly coming over to Arya he handed the Gem and Necklace to Arya, "A gift for you, keep it secret keep it safe. It's called A Sontaran Emerald. According to legends of the Jedi it's said to assist one in combat, keeping the mind free of distractions and focused."

Arya accepted the Emerald and looked at it with it's shine as she said, "It seems to have power with in it."

"Yes, to a small amount." Jason spoke softly as he moved to sit down preparing to meditate.

"Tell us about this Jedi Order, I must admit I am curious. According to Sunrider Jedi are great warriors."

Jason gave a laugh at that and sat down and in a slightly mocking tone said. "Great Warriors indeed. Wars do not make anyone great." Exhaling he listened to Eragon's question.

"Jason I saw you fight the Kull and Urgals. You fought with Skill I thought wasn't possible. How can you say you are not a great warrior?"

"You also have clear experience with battlefield tactics. Almost as if you are a military commander, or have experience in war." Murtagh added.

"Jedi are defenders of the peace. Their duty is to keep the peace, sometimes that means fighting for it, or dying for it. But yes I know battle, I know war. And above all else, I know war does not make one great. There is no honor in battle, or war. The only honor comes from defending those who can not defend themselves. Anyone who tells you other wise is a war monger, or trying to sell you a load of horse shit."

"Then what are Jedi like?" Arya asked and sat down.

"Very much like the Dragon Riders of Old. With some differences of course. Jedi Like the Dragon Riders were Guardians of Law. But, where as the Dragon Riders as Brom told me were above the law, Jedi were not. The Jedi when they did things, they operated inside the bounds of the laws, as such they very rarely broke the law, and when they did. It was always viewed as absolutely necessary, and only if they were willing to accept the consequences of their actions. That the riders were above the law, I think lead to their down fall."

"It was Galbatorix who destroyed the Riders after his original Dragon was slain." Arya said.

Looking at Arya, Jason showed his eyes full of wisdom and compassion. "Was it Galbatorix who destroyed the Riders? Or the Riders who sowed the seeds of their own destruction. The Riders should have cared for and healed Galbatorix, tending to one of their own."

"You think they didn't?" Arya said as the edge in her voice was clear.

"From what Brom told me, No they didn't."

"Don't tell me you have any sort of Compassion for that man." Arya said the edge on her voice was clear.

"I pity him." Everyone just stared at Jason as he turned away from them. "I pity him for the fate that was to cast him such a fate. The only compassion I will have for him is to grant him a quick death should I face him in combat."

Everyone watched as Jason knelt down to begin meditation. "I suggest we rest while we can, the Battle will be terrible. Fortunately they are not at full strength." Jason could sense the disdain in Arya as he began to enter his meditation as Sunrider came close and laid down beside him.

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Finally Jason opened his eyes and stood up, he pulled his hood up over his head and turned to face the others and said, "It's Time." There he walked up to the wall and with a leap, jumped up to the top of the wall and looked down on the glowing lights where he looked down upon the three areas where the Varden hoped to hold the Urgals. Eragon, Arya, and Murtagh all joined him.

Looking Back Jason watched as Sunrider, Carried Arya's Dragon into a cave where she could hold him down. The hatchling seemed to be trying to Join Arya. Thorn join beside Sunrider as the cave would be their last line of defense. Looking back down Jason said, "They are prepared well, perhaps with Luck we will not need to assist." Lifting his left hand up Jason closed his eyes as his Palm began to glow silver and gold.

Jason began to enter Battle Meditation. There he expanded his senses and open his connection to the force a wide as he could. He heard Arya ask when she felt the effects. "What are you Doing?"

"Battle Meditation, bolstering the will and morale of the Varden, while sapping the confidence and will of the Urgals.."

"It's impossible to effect such a large area over such a great distance. You'll kill your self!" Eragon said.

"Eragon, I have spoken to Brom." Arya Said, "If Jason does something with his powers, trust he knows his limits and will not hurt himself."

As Jason listened through the force he could feel mages and magic user on the side of the Urgals, and well as the Varden. The Varden's users where guarded as he had told them of the 'spell' he would cast. There he began to bolster the wills of the varden, and began to help co-ordinate them all through the Force. After his display with the slabs of volcanic stone, very few would doubt his strength or power when he lifted stones several tons in weight.

The Magic users on the side of the Urgals closed their minds and tried to hide from him but he allowed them to hide as he allowed his mind to be on them in a constant light pressure so as to disrupt communications. And there he knew they would not rick opening their minds lest they allow him inside. Through the force he could sense something about the Urgal forces.

He felt their minds somewhat clouded, foggy, and.... Controlled. Jason relayed this to the Varden's mages and then they relayed it to their battle commanders. That someone had cast a spell on the Urgals, powerful enough to force them to work together and attack the Varden. Through communications with Brom, he surmised that the mages in the Urgal forces where helping to keep that spell in place. With Durza being the caster, Jason attempted to search out Durza and could not locate him. Brom was worried that Durza was no where to be sensed.

Slowly Jason attempted to break through the spell to try and smash it, but he had his limits. He was both too far away, and not strong enough to break the control over such a large area. His Battle Meditation could not effect them. He told this to Eragon, Arya and Saphira, and explained to them that they would be needed to help disrupt the Urgal's lines. They were to follow his lead and strike where he told them to do.

Finally he felt the rush of pain as the Varden's soldiers poured burning flaming oil down the tunnels onto the advancing Urgal and Kull. Jason did his best to shield himself from the pain and worked to time the Varden's Archers. As the fires slowly went out the Enemy forces started to emerge from the tunnels. First he had the bottom row fire then, the send third and four rows. This allowed the Archers to keep up a near constant volley of Arrows at the forces. As one row had fired and was drawing an arrow a second row was firing, once he had them in a pattern he turn his attention to their spear men, having them direct their thrown spears for the Kull.

Finally as their numbers rushed out of the tunnels, he told Eragon, Arya, and Saphira now was the time to join the battle. Saphira took hold of one of the large sealed barrels of oil and with Eragon and Ayra on her back as she jumped into the air. The barrel as Saphira dived was let go on the Angle Jason showed her and thanks to his timing when the Barrel exploded with the Oil spraying all over the Kull and Urgals. Jason directed Arya to Fire her bow at one particular enemy which he sensed was a magic user. And thus the pattern was established.

*************

For nearly an hour Jason helped to strengthen the resolve of the Varden, while a number of Urgals and Kull had slipped through the small holes they were effectively trapped. Unable to escape or effectively attack, slipping and sliding in the oily mud, even their grips on their weapons faltered. The urgals were being slaughtered.

Finally Jason opened his eyes and began to with Draw from his Battle Meditation and when Brom asked him what was wrong Jason said, everything was fine. Jumping down from the ledge Jason headed to the slide. Murtagh Asked him, "Jason, What's wrong?"

"Dealing with Druza and the Ra'zac. All of you stay here, if the Force is with me, no one will get past me. If any one does, with Luck they will be in no condition to resist you all." There Jason laid on his Robe and there began to slide down the giant slide. Faster and faster he whipped around the giant slide as he used the Force to keep his mind clear of the excitement and the dizzying effect.

When Jason reached the bottom he looked around the place and pulled his arms out of the sleeves of his robe. And took hold of both his Lightsabers and recalled how Arya's weapon had resisted his saber and had to expect the weapons of Durza and the Ra'zac would be similar. The Hallway was dark, all the doors closed, locked and sealed, Lifting his hand Jason used the Force to dim the lights to cast a lot of shadows and to which he merged into them. On the walls Jason saw plenty of tapestries he could use in combat.

An echo when through Tronjheim, as Jason's senses went to the floor as he awaited it. Finally the ground exploded a large section of the ground exploded outwards and up as Jason summoned all his strength him the force to shield himself from the spray of needles that came from it. Next came the Urgals, as they rushed out, once they looked around Out Jumped the Ra'zac and then Durza. Durza was dressed in black battle armor befitting a Sith lord A snake skin cloak billowed behind him as his Maroon eyes burned with Madness. The Ra'zac looked around and after a long sniff The Ra'zac Hissed, "He's here!"

"Welcome, Druza, Ra'zac. I have been expecting you." Jason said walking between the shadows as he heard the Ra'zac crouch and get ready to pounce.

"So you are the one who has given my army so much trouble, exposed my spys, and stolen the three dragon eggs from Galbatorix. Galbatorix is very, very upset with you. Which is a pity you made him an enemy, you would be a powerful ally, Jason Talben."

"A powerful ally?" Jason asked and said, "Ah yes, the traditional parley before we fight. Very well I suppose I am honor bound to at least hear your offer. What do you think you have to offer me?"

Jason watched as the Urgals and Kull had taken a position up to defend Druza and the Ra'zac. Jason had managed to irk Durza, and it pleased him some. "First tell me where the Boy and his Dragon is?"

"This is between us Durza. They won't be joining us."

As Druza spoke Jason used the Force to let him see the energies flowing around The Ra'zac and Durza, he began to pattern them to see how he could break and shatter the protective wards around them. "Galbatorix is extremely upset with you, he will no doubt go to great lengths to torture and punish you for stealing his dragon eggs. Join forces with me, we can destroy Galbatorix and rule Alageasia with an Iron fist."

"With me as your servant correct Durza?"

"Of course." he said baring his teeth his eyes burning with rage and anger, but seemed pleased Jason was considering his offer.

Jason had finally figured out how to shatter the wards around them as he said. "Durza, In case it hasn't dawned on you, I'm here alone. Which means clearly I consider myself able to handle you all alone, although I am not so arrogant to believe I won't be defeated. Why then would I kneel before you, when I consider you three no real threat." Durza's Smile faded as he continued. "I have no interest in ruling Alagaesia, which means this will end in only one way. A fight to the death, but be warned Durza, if you strike me down, I will become more powerful then you can ever imagine."

Jason allowed his robes to fall to the ground as he took up taking up his Jedi Ready Stance. Crossing his arms as he activated his sabers and spun them around with a flash of gold and silver light as Jason took up his battle stance. With his right hand holding his saber back at a ninety degree angle and his left saber at hip level at a horizontal level.

Durza lashed his hand up as the Urgal and Kull lunged at him. Jason allowed them to come at him as he avoided one weapon swing and used his right saber to cleave a weapon in two near the handle and then spun around as he used his saber to take off the head of the Urgal, A Kull sought to bring down a massive war hammer on Jason from behind as Jason stepped to the left turning as the massive war hammer impacted to the ground with a tremendous thud.

With a graceful swing upwards he used the last foot of his saber to take off the hands of the Kull and as he reared back to roar out in pain Jason took off the head of the Kull. A moment later Jason realized he was surrounded by the Urgals and Kull. With a slight crouch Jason sought to extract himself from this situation and then made a short jump. When he jumped a blaster wave of pure force exploded from Jason in a wave that Repealed everyone and everything that was not secured to the floor away from him.

Every Kull and Urgal was blown back away from him. The sound of them hitting the walls of Tronjheim echoed with a massive boom and a sickening crack as the force of the blast broke not only their backs but necks as well. They slumped down dead as Jason was instantly set upon the Ra'zac and Durza. Jason Felt a Pressure on his mind as he felt Durza attempt to enter his mind.

Recalling how Atton Rand had taught him to play Pazaac, he began going over all sorts of things, hyperspace coordinates, recalling his favorite music pieces, and using the Force to shield his mind into an unbreakable wall. The Breath of the Ra'zac was something Foul smelling as he could sense some sort of toxin in their breath. Thankfully Jason was used to this sort of play and was able to block the effects.

As one Ra'zac brought his blade attempting to strike down Jason's Arm, he used his Lightsaber to block near the hilt when he saw the blade was coated with something slick. "Seither oil!" and there with the intense heat from his lightsaber, Jason turned a small knob up on his saber with the force to make his saber burn hotter and there he spun raking his saber along the length of the blade to burn off the seithr oil the Blade of the Ra'zac.

As he spun Jason jumped up to avoid a slash to the legs from the other Ra'zac and turning the power of his other Saber up he allowed it to strike the handle of the Ra'zac blade up to the tip as he knocked it away. Following his instincts he Spun around to block Durza's sword with one hand and with strength and speed that surprised Druza knocked his blade to the side and spun around bringing his right foot up and then allowed the heel to come across Durza's face as hard as he could knocking the shade back

Spinning around Jason saw the two Ra'zac leaping at him so he leaped back. Performing a Multi spin flip as he landed on his feet. Spinning both Sabers he held them at a battle ready position and wanting to anger them he said, "Is that all?" he said with a mocking tone. With his right hand he spun his saber around in a figure eight. "Durza, did it hurt when Eragon shot you between the eyes with an arrow?"

With eyes full of burning rage, "A debt that will be repaid with blood." He said having regained his footing and the Razac were moving more carefully. As Jason said in a soft voice.

"So it's true, being shot between the eyes would have killed any normal man. Seems you can only be slain by a thrust through the heart. Thank you for that information, when you are dead I sense the Urgal Army will collapse into total chaos unable to fight effectively."

The fact that Durza had just given up the secret of being destroyed to someone who was not sure, angered him, and instantly just before he was to attack, Jason lunged at him and made a stabbing motion for his heart, Durza brought up his shield and with in human speed turned to avoid the blow. Jason's Lightsaber cleaved right through Durza's Shield and lashed across his breastplate, scaring the surface of it.

Discarding his shield when he realized it would not protect him from the Saber he took his sword with both hands and slashed at Jason's head trying to take it off. He redoubled his efforts to try and break Jason's mental barriers, Jason stood hard against the assault as he parried and blocked Durza's strike. Durza was instantly put on the defensive as Jason lashed out with his other saber attempting to push it through the heart of Durza. "Time for you two to sit out of this fight."

The Ra'zac had attempted to attack Jason from behind as he did a Force leap out of their attack and behind them. While in the air he flung his left saber through the air and as it spun around in circles it caught one of the Tapestries and with the Force Jason made it fall fast and hard wrapping up the Ra'zac up as he Landed and once more lunged at Durza who had attempted to get back down the hole he emerged from. With Jason driving him back as the Ra'zac were squealing and shrieking as they were extracting themselves from the tangling cloth.

As Jason swung he regained the other Saber and started to batter Durza's defenses which where weakening under the relentless onslaught of Jason's blows. After a few hits a tremor in the Force worried Jason, he sensed Murtagh and Eragon's approach. The briefest moment of lapse of focus was what Durza had hoped for, "Brisingr!"he yelled as he pushed a hand out and there a fireball exploded on Jason knocking him back with tremendous force.

Jason was blown back into a wall. The Fire nor the impact had really hurt Jason as the Force Protection he had active protected him, but by the time he was on his feet he had to defend against the Ra'zac's onslaught blocking and deflecting their attacks. Just as Durza was about to escape two doors burst open with a surge of magic, Eragon and Murtagh where both standing closest to him and the Ra'zac between him and the boys. Both Ra'zac had found a method to attack Jason and keep him on the defencive. One would attack then the other.

Color faded from Eragon's face as did Murtagh's when Durza approached them and the trio began fighting. Jason listened to Durza chackle, "You two should have kept out of this, now I will claim victory!"

Jason's interest was to get to Eragon and Murtagh, but the Ra'zac stayed between him and them, forcing him to watch as Durza knocked Murtagh away with a Spell. Then as Eragon attempted to stab Durza through the heart only to be deflected and his blade knocked to the side. The force of the deflection was enough to make Eragon loose his balance and his guard, there Durza stepped behind him and there Jason watched in horror as the blade Durza wielded glowed Red with an evil power as he smote Eragon on his back striking him from the right shoulder to the left hip.

Durza had shouted something out in the ancient language. Jason knew not what was said but had felt the intent, to curse Eragon, to break his spirit. Jason felt the anger of Murtagh, as he yelled out "ERAGON!" And there Despite his anger and rage, Murtagh kept control of it, as he lunged at the shade feeling the power of Magic welling with in him.

The Chaos of battle would have been fast paced to most but to Jason using the Force to speed up his faculties. He felt a surge of power far above them, as a disturbance in the force Caught his attention. He felt amazement when the presence of two more people filling his senses. One with Eragon, the other Murtagh. Then game a deafening roar and a flash of Light as Jason lifted his eyes to the roof and watched as the the Star Sapphire exploded. Saphira fell through the Star Sapphire with Arya on her back. A Green nimbus around her. The Distraction was enough for it to draw the attention of the Ra'zac and Durza.

Jason extracted himself from the Ra'zac's area as he watched and felt something ancient in the chamber as Eragon had taken hold of his Katana, as Murtagh came up to Durza from the front, The Magic Filled their very bing as they channeled both their Energy into one word:

"Brisingr!"

As both Shouted out the magic word he watched as Eragon and Murtagh plunged their Jedi Katana swords, into Durza, through his heart. As far as Jason could tell they struck at once, the blade tip of Eragon's sword struck the hilt guard of Murtagh's sword, and Murtagh's sword struck the hilt guard of Eragon's Blade. The Ra'zac realizing Durza had been struck, fled back down the hole from which they came, Saphira as she Landed opened her massive Jaws and yellow flames spewed out from her jaws into the hole as she tried to burn the Ra'zac to death.

Turn his attention to Durza he could feel the evil in him weakening as he grabbed both blades and with his mouth open issuing a evil scream as his body began to dissolve and Jason watched as those spirits which had been controlling Druza exploded as three spirits of absolute evil and hate exploded from him and fled from Farthen Dur.

Concerned for his fellows Jason turned off his sabers and went to Eragon's side where he collapsed, as Murtagh also slumped to the ground. Eragon was hurting, and his mind in absolute turmoil. Some how he had made contact with Durza's mind and the Shade had wounded him both physically and mentally.

Jason began to care for Eragon as Saphira came close to her rider.

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It had almost been a day and a half, before Eragon had started to stir. Despite all his skill

and healing powers Jason had been unable to purge the Shade's remnants from Eragon's mind. Jason felt the presence of another touching Eragon's mind the same one that contacted him back in Dras Leona. Jason helped channel the essence of the lightside of the Force into Eragon to heal his wounds, this also helped this other person helped purge his mind of Durza's influence.

And finally Eragon awoke as Jason stood sentry. Jason was worried and confused, the mark on Eragon's back had refused to properly heal. No matter what Jason did he could not purge the evil energy which was bound up in the thick ropey scar.

"How long have I been out?" Eragon asked

"A day and a half." Jason spoke sadly.

"What happened?"

"When you and Murtagh slew Durza, his control over the Urgals and Kull was destroyed. Their forces fell apart and began fighting among themselves allowing the Varden to route them. We won Eragon."

The large door opened up as Saphira, Murtagh, and Arya came in with their dragons. Brom and Ajihad stood outside as Jason slowly left as Sunrider came up beside him as he looked at Ajihad with disapproval. Ajihad was the one who ordered Eragon and Murtagh to join him after Saphira had been wounded with a spear. Jason went off now to attempt to heal others in the Varden to allow them to heal better, leaving it to Ajihad and Brom to explain how badly Eragon was wounded.