FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

SoulFire: Battlements

By DraconicKnight and Ravencraft

Second story in the SoulFire Series so if you haven't read that one we suggest that you do.

()= thoughtspeech

Ok Folks, This is a long one so just hand in there. If you came for a quick yiff with no plot then look somewhere else. This story reads over 32 pages on Microsoft word© so you might need an hour or so to read it. As par legal you need to be 18 years or age or older to read this. (No one pays any attention to these warnings anyways but we try) And without further ado I will let my writing partner, RavenCraft give you her warning.

Oh yees...the warnings for All of ye! *Evil Grin* As for all of you who are under aged...OUT WITH YOU!! You have no business here, gather your folks and asked THEM to give you the old 'birds and the bees' talk because we aren't gonna do it!! We aren't here to baby-sit and tell you "No no." and slap your little hands...personally I'd slap you on the back of the head for getting on this site and get my panty guarding sheep to eat your little panties...! As for all of our fans...THE SECOND INSTALLMENT!!!WHOO HOO!!! Yes...enjoy children...muah ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha....

Eragon:

Saphira paced the hold relentlessly as she waited for Eragon's return; her wings folded around her front in modesty.

Saphira is a deep blue dragon that was bonded to Eragon when she hatched for him and he was marked with the sign of the Rider, a silver slash across his right palm. They have been together ever since. She's Eragon's combat partner and his love. They have been through a lot together and have become quite close, not just on a physical level but on a deep, spiritual level. Saphira has found a way to change her appearance so they can be together. She has found a way to shrink her size and change into that of a humanoid.

Saphira's body is covered in soft scales, for in this form she does not need the hardness of her scales as she does in battle. Even smaller scales, that are a light blue in color, cover her underside. Saphira is a little shorter then Eragon, about 5'11 but has a well-toned and defined figure. She moves with supple grace that few elves ever achieve. A long tail flicks behind her, moving with a life of its own with every sway of her hips. Her razor sharp claws have retract and reformed into dark, pointed fingernails.

Pair of strong wings attach at her shoulder blades and arched gracefully over her head and stop just short of her knees. The wing membrane is a similar shade of blue as the rest of her, but looks lighter in the sun.

"I never should have let him go alone," she said aloud, stopping. "I just hope by some miracle that the king understands, he's just got to. Eragon will make him understand, I know it," hearing the words come from her did little to comfort her as she continued to pace. Her mind kept running all sorts of crazy scenarios from the king understanding to Eragon being killed. She couldn't bear that though. Her grief overwhelmed her and she began to sob.

"I can't lose him, I just can't but what hope is there," she cried. "How can the king ever see?"

"Actually he saw it quite easily," a voice said from behind her. Saphira whirled around to see her love standing in the doorway, smiling. His brown hair waved gently in the breeze from the passageway. He was dressed in a midnight blue vest with a cream colored shirt underneath and brown breeches.

"Eragon!" she breathed. In her grief she didn't hear him come back. She ran to him nearly knocked him over as they embraced. Eragon was crying not for sorrow, but for joy as he comforted her.

"I though I would never see you again. I was sure the king would lock you up or kill you, what happened?" she asked, drawing out of his embrace. Eragon talked as he walked over to the mouth of the hold, holding her hand tightly in his.

"At first I though that there was no way for it to work out but then Brome came to my rescue one more time. He saved you and me, he saved us," I added as I put my arm around her.

"How did he do that?" she asked softly, resting her head upon my shoulder slightly, thankful everything was all right.

"Well, it seems that Brome had a very similar relationship with his Partner and the king had known about it. I guess that the two were friends so the king had no problem with it." Saphira look back at me with a stunned face.

"Well I guess you learned more that the ancient magic from him, huh?" she said, smiling.

"I guess I did." I answered, silently thanking the man who helped me become what I was today.

"So what do we do now?"

"Well, I'm pretty sure that I would be a good idea to keep this between the two of us." I said, leaning my head on hers briefly then looked down at her.

"Agreed. So-." Saphira's question was cut of by shouts coming from the hallway. Without a word she pushed away from me and changed back into her true dragon form just in time for a young man to burst into the chamber.

"Master Eragon, sir. Our long range scouts have spotted an invasion force," the man breathed, trying to catch his breath. I saw Saphira give me a sideways glance but I ignored it.

"How far out are they?" I asked quickly.

"About half a day, but they are closing fast, sir."

"Has the king been warned?" I asked, thinking of how long they had to prepare till then.

"Yes, the king knows and the Dwarf HighLord is also aware of the situation."

"Are our defenses in place?" I asked, absentmindedly leaning against Saphira's side, stroking her scales lightly in my thinking.

"Yes, our army has been on high alert, waiting for this attack."

"Good, good. Leave us," I ordered and the man left.

(You fall into the roll of leader very well, luv), Saphira mind spoke to me.

(I don't want to but I guess that people here look up to me, being the first rider in over three hundred years). Saphira nodded her agreement as I tightened the strap on the saddle and swung my leg up. (The king also told me to see the metalsmith, it seems he has something for you). Saphira raised an eye ridge at this as she jumped out of the opening of the dragonhold.

The wind hit my face in a torrent as we streaked towards the ground, making me realize the beauty of flying again the shear freedom of soaring through the clean air and the warm thermals. Saphira opened her wings at the last second and we soared over the city. The metalsmith's forge was on the far side of the city, on the outskirts and away from most other people. Saphira landed outside a large white stone building that had a huge chimney on top that was belching thick, black smoke nonstop. I climbed off her back and was greeted by what might be the largest man I had ever seen. None of his girth as fat mind you. His arms were like pillars and his chest was a large as a barrel.

"Good to see ye, master Eragon," he said in a heavy Scottish accent. I nearly yelped as his fist closed around mine and squeezed. His grip was incredible. He smiled at this from behind his red beard.

"It is good to see you to, Aodhan," remembering him from where I had first come to the White City. "The king told me that you have something for Saphira." I said, flexing my hand slightly, trying to see if this man broke anything.

"Yup, I do. Come with me 'round back." He turned and walked around the huge building to what looked like a scrap yard out back. "This be what I wanted to show ye," he said standing in front of a large grey tarp.

I looked up at Saphira and shrugged, I had no idea what was going on either.

"I "persuaded" the dwarfs to let me see the planes for this when you got here, that was no easy task, mind you," he chuckled. "And I've finally finished it," He said turning around and pulling the tarp off.

When I first looked at the assortment of metal, I had no idea what it was.

"What is it?" I asked thoroughly confused.

"It's armor, a course. What does it look like?" he asked, laughing.

"Armor? For who?" I asked looking back at the heap of platemail. I had to admit, upon closer inspection, that the armor was ornately decorated and looked very strong. I could see intricately hewn shapes that branched out over the whole surface. The armor was steel gray but the lines and shapes that snaked across its surface were shinning silver.

"For yer dragon, a course. Ya dinna think it was for you, did ye?" He asked, still laughing at my bewildered expression.

(Armor? Well this is new?) Saphira sent to me. I looked up at her and smiled.

(At least it will keep you safe. I don't want anything to happen to you.) I said softly to her, wondering if this armor would really protect her.

"For Saphira? Doesn't she have enough armor by herself?" I asked, looking back at him

"That's what the dwarfs said and yes, she does but it never hurts to be extra careful. Come on lets get it on the lassie." He said lifting a large plate.

"The what?" I asked, not catching the last word.

"Never mind ye,..." he laughed.

"Ok, so how do we do this?" I asked, picking up a large plate.

"First off, that be a tail plate. Go and grab one of those small ones that look like a triangle... yes, that one." I grabbed a plate that was about three feet at its widest part. I walked over to where he was standing, the plate under his arm looking up at Saphira, looking a bit intimidated by her.

"Could you get 'er to lower 'er neck?" as he asked that Saphira obediently lowered her neck.

"She can understand English perfectly well. You don't need me to say anything." I said proudly as Saphira rolled her eyes at me.

"Well that helps, now don't it? All right Master Eragon that plate that you have in yer hand be a neck guard. That one is the first one and goes at her head, just strap it around her neck...that's right. Now the next plate hooks into the first one and then next one hooks into that one and so one..." It took us about twenty minutes to complete the neck armor with the last one having a strap just like the first one. I stepped back and looked up at our work.

"So how does it feel, Saphira?" I asked aloud for the benefit of Darren. She shook her neck and the plates rattled gently,

"(It feels a bit strange but I can get used to It,)" she mind spoke back turning her head around to look at them.

"(Good, anything to keep you safe,)" I responded silently.

"What did she say?" Darren asked.

"She says it's a bit strange but it's fine. So what do we put on next?"

"Well... let's put the back plate on next. Now this plate be big, two parts. One part covers 'er back and is attached to another part that protects 'er underside. It be big so I have it rigged up on a platform over 'ere." I looked over towards the other side of the scrap yard and saw a giant platform with the plate resting on a series of pullies.

I walked next to Saphira as we made our way through the maze of scrap.

(So, what do you really think of this armor idea?) I asked as I looked up at her walking next to me.

(I don't know... I think it's a good idea but then again I don't.) She answered, looking sideways and down at me.

(If you don't think it's a good idea then you don't have to wear it. It would make me feel better, though,) I added, giving her a halfhearted smile.

(Oh alright, I'll wear it but only because you want me to.) She said, trying to trip me with her tail.

"Saph-!" I yelled but caught myself before I said anything else aloud. (It's not my fault; I don't want to see you hurt. I don't know what I would if I lost you.)

(You would go on,) she answered plainly. Her answer shocked me and I looked up at her with a concerned face. (But I'm not going anywhere anytime soon,) she added, seeing my evident concern. She stopped and lowered her head, (And don't you either,) she said, looking me in the eye. My heart fluttered in my chest, making me suddenly very proud to have Saphira, reliving for just a brief moment what passed in the hold.

"Don't worry, I'm not," I said, whispering, caressing her nose slightly.

"What be the hold up, lad?" came a bellow from across the yard.

"Nothing! We're coming!" I shouted back.

We rounded a large pile of scrap to see the armor suspended in midair, held up by a large wooden gantry.

"Right, dragon, come over 'ere and step through the plates." Saphira did and I helped Aodhan strap the armor in place. Next came the chest plate, the plates on the legs and finally the plates that covered the top of the tail, much like the neck plates.

After about an hour of preparation, Saphira was fully armored and ready for battle. I climbed up into the saddle that rested on top of the armor plates. I felt small being only lightly armored my self; strongly comforted about the fact Saphira was protected. DunnSilfren rattled at my side, making me feel a little better. The swords weight felt reassuring.

Just then, the same man that told us about the invasion came running towards us. He stopped quite a distance away from Saphira and walked towards her at a much slower pace. Aodhan and I watched him fight for breath before he delivered what was needed.

"Master Eragon, the battle is about to commence. The king commands that you attend to the front lines to receive orders," he said breathlessly and leaned on a piece of scrap.

(That was fast,) Saphira said, somewhat surprised.

"Thank you. Tell the king we're on our way," I answered from atop Saphira. I turned to the metalsmith,

"Thank you, Aodhan. I hope to see you after the battle," I mindspoke to Saphira and she jumped into the air with a kick from her powerful hind legs.

We flew high over the battlefield, riding on thermals and taking in the spectacle. Saphira's and my job was to give support where it was needed. We were to reinforce any front that wavered and plug any hole that the enemy managed to make. As we flew, I began to see just how many men were involved in the battle. There were thousands of solders lined up on both sided along with dozens of lines of cavalry, archers and siege engines. The battle for the White City was going to be massive in both militarily and economical standpoints. The defenders stood in front of the city with the walls as a fallback point.

A wide field spread out before us as we flew high over the enemy ranks. They were mostly built up ogres and orks but there was the occasional human section. They rattled their sword and banged their shields as huge siege engines were moved into place. With one massive battle cry from both sides, the battle began. The two sides rushed at each other that reminded me strangely of water and such a battle has never been seen or ever will again. The siege machines flung huge flaming projectiles and house sized boulders that threw masses of soldiers in the air, killing hundreds. The two lines clashed in an eruption of armor and steel. Saphira dove towards the thickest of the fighting, her claws outstretched, straight for the enemy. The archers saw us coming and turned their bows skyward. Black shafts littered the sky as the swarm came towards us. Saphira was already to close to the ground to change course and was hit by the full blast of arrows. Most of them clattered off her armor but several tore through her delicate wings and exposed sides. She roared and plunged down on the enemy with renewed fury only a dragoness could reveal. She slammed into them hard, throwing riders and their steeds high in the air. Her body rocked the ground when it impacted as she impaled those unluckily enough to wind up under her claws to the ground. The battle seemed to stop for a second as both sides realized that a dragon had landed among them. Our own forces were less shocked but they still stopped.

I drew my sword high and looked around.

"Rally to me and fight!" I shouted as the battle began anew. Now realizing that Saphira was the biggest threat a good number of the enemy bore down on us. Saphira lashed out with her tail, fangs and claws taking out many times her number in single sweeps. Several times, they were drove back by the razor sharp claws and gnashing teeth. Our lines formed around us to push back the invaders but were drove back just as many times as they advanced.

Dead bodies littered the ground around us and beneath Saphira's massive talons. The wails and screams of dying men filled our ears as the battle continued. I lashed at those who managed to pass Saphira's massive talons and try to rein her. My arm lashed out, spilling blood over the brilliant armor around me. The smell of blood and metal choked off the air, making me run off pure adrenalin. Saphira roared, deafening the opposing side before her massive tail lashed out, tossing the enemy and their steeds up into the air like little rag dolls. The smell of blood was everywhere, staining the ground forever and staining the minds of those in battle.

I looked around, wondering about those I saw just before the battle when a blinding pain seared through my left arm. I turned to see several of the enemy around me, making my blood boil and in a fit of rage I lashed out my numb arm and cut the throat of one, his warm, thick blood spilling onto my face and running down my arm. I slaughtered relentlessly those who came at me for Saphira, keeping an eye around me for those on our side that was in trouble.

But it was the cried of dying men that tore at my heart...men who were leaving loved ones behind. Mothers, fathers, children, lovers and friends. But with that thought passed one every man within the clutches of war. He was fighting for his city, for his love and lastly for himself. And as sure as he made peace with what he was doing, more of the enemy piled on top of us, making me move in Saphira's saddle and turn to see spears piercing through the chests of men and steeds. Fear, tangled up in the rush of adrenalin hit me full force seeing those spears come closer to Saphira and me. The enemy was closing and I knew we were trapped.

Huge beast charged through the ranks, trampling and throwing those that got in their way. They were twice the size of a horse and had gray, shaggy hair that covered their bodied. Two huge tusks jutted out from their mouth as they were used to impale or throw anyone or anything that got in their way. Each beast had an ogre rider and each ogre held a gleaming spear that ended in a wicked point. Each point was different and displayed an array of sloping blades and barbed tips. The sea of blades sliced through the ranks of the defenders and soon bore down on us.

"Archers!" I called out, "There," I yelled and pointed towards the spear warriors with my sword. The line turned as one and strung their bows. As one, they fired a deadly volley. Wooden shafts thudded into the line and many fell, tangling others and bringing them down as well. The line still came as the archers reloaded. They sent another withering hail of arrows at the attackers and all but the leader fell. His body riddled with arrows, he still came. I yelled at Saphira and she turned to see this new threat. He was too close, she could not leap to the side and she knew it so instead she leapt straight into the air. My stomach lurched from the sudden movement as I looked down. A third volley of arrows cut down the battle-crazed leader as he passed under us.

I breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed. Saphira flew higher and higher, trying to get a scope of where we were needed next. I relaxed too soon for I did not see the ballista shaft sailing through the air. The spear struck Saphira and she lurched sideways. She roared as I fought to keep my balance as I looked over Saphira's side. I could see a fifteen-foot spear protruding from her side... right between the bottom and top armor plates. Saphira seemed to stop in mid air as she began to freefall. Her wings whipped around my face as we fell out of the sky.

"Saphira!" I shouted again and again but got no response. I reached into her mind and felt nothing, just an empty void. I panicked as the ground rushed up with its crushing embrace. Saphira slammed into the ground at a sharp angle, throwing up dirt and rocks. One wing was dragged under her body as she hit the ground. I heard a sickening tearing as the ground tore her delicate wings to shreds. I flew through the air and smashed into the ground as well. My momentum lifted me up again and sent me skidding towards a large rock outcropping. I slammed into the rock and slid down to the ground. I lay there for a few seconds before I slowly started to open my eyes; I could dimly hear the sound of battle far away.

I knew what had happened, I knew. We had been lured into the sky and had become easy targets. I cursed myself for the mistake. That had been the enemies plan all along. I had seen ballistas in the enemy's ranks but didn't see them as a threat until we were hit. How could I have been so stupid? It might as well be the last mistake I ever make, I thought. I might have killed Saphira and now I knew it was my turn to die. I reached into her mind in hopes of finding her alive and to my joy I felt a faint whisper, like a brush of a hand against my mind. I tried to move, to try to get to her. I heard a crack and white-hot pain lanced through my body. I shut my eyes and blacked out from the pain.

My mind slowly came back into focus. I could hear muffled voices but could not understand what they were saying. I don't know how long I lay there, fighting to stay awake. I tried to open my eyes but found that I couldn't. I tested each limb of my body to find everything still attached. I could feel a warm, wet wrapping in several places that restricted my movement. My mind registered another thing clearly, however. I felt a cornucopia of different pains, from a dull ach in my side to a sharp stabbing pain in my left arm. Not being able to see what was going on, or move for that mater, I lay there. As I lay my hearing began to trickle back. I could hear voices. I tried to move my arm and bit my lip to keep from screaming as searing pain ripped through my arm, making me almost glad I was alive. I shut the voices out and concentrated on the healing magick that was growing inside me. I felt the familiar cold tingle as the magic started to take effect. I focused my mind on the energy and shaping it to my will. I felt it radiate out from my center and the cold tingling changed into a warm embracing feeling. I opened my eyes and everything instantly snapped into focus including the blinding lights pouring in from the windows. I squinted against the lights for a brief second. I sat up slowly, testing my healing abilities. I looked around and saw I was in the nursing wing of the castle, a curtain around my bed away from the other men I could hear. I pulled the bandages off then reached up and pulled the curtain away and frowned at what I saw. There were other men lying close by, groaning that they were alive and kept to this world despite the pain of their injuries. My heart thudded faster as I looked around...

"Awake are we?" I turned to see the King and another man standing between my cot and the man next to me, and nodded slightly. However, something in his somber eyes told me this wasn't a visit for my health. I felt a gentle brush against my mind and frantically looked around. Saphira. Why wasn't she here?

"Where is Saphira?" I asked the king who stood beside my cot, his arms crossed.

"Eragon..." he started but the smallish man next to him cut him off. He was wearing a long flowing robe of red and white with a Rosarius around his neck. His head was cleanly shaven, except for a tiny patch of hair right below his mouth. He might have been about thirty but looked forty, with a thin, gaunt face and piercing green eyes.

"You idiot. Do you really think that we could keep something as large and foul as a dragon in the sick wing? Use your brain," I stared back at him in shock,

"Who do you think you are?" I asked, bile rising in my throat.

"Watch your tongue, Rider." He said quickly. "It would not be in your best interest to upset Saint Celestine, now would it?" he said in an oily sneer.

"And who are you? Celestine?" I shot back.

"I am High Cardinal Ambrose, and I represent Her and all Her ideas and wants." I could see him swell with self-pride as he announced his position. "And as such it is my duty to make certain that a level of respect is maintained in this castle," he said glancing at the king who didn't seem to notice.

"I will ask again, where's Saphira?" I said looking from the king to Ambrose. "If she is not here then where is she?"

"Your beast is still in down on the battlefield where your carelessness nearly cost us the battle," he spat. "Think you action through before you attempt them next time," he accused as he looked down his nose at me. I turned to leave,

"I don't need this," I said over my shoulder. "Do me a favor, Ambrose and stay the hell away from me," I warned.

"Let the hero born of woman crush the serpent with his heel," he said calmly, repeating a long held prayer. I whipped around, my face inches from his stoic gaze.

I was about to ring his neck when pain ripped through my mind suddenly and a mighty roar echoed throughout the castle. I blinked several times, trying to make myself focus and stared at the king as the pain faded. Without a word, I took off down the corridor, cursing at the pain in my arm the whole time. Apparently my healing wasn't a complete as I thought. I was shocked when I burst into the main hall, to see hundreds more men, wounded and bleeding in the hall stretching down even further. The gray granite hall was full of moans and cries as the women tried their best to save each man and comfort those too far-gone to help with healing herbs. The smell of those herbs and blood hit me as I staggered through the men and the women who tried to make me stop, begging to look at their wounds. My thoughts only revolved on the pain I felt from Saphira, and those who were hurting her.

After what seemed like eternity, I made it to the entrance hall and saw Aodhan talking with a man. When he saw me, I stopped and nodded to him.

"Master Eragon! Are ye alright lad?" he asked as I passed him. I waved weakly to him, and ran out to the front steps and out to the battlefield, passing armed men who survived without major injury. After all the blood shed, I saw in the battle and then the traumas afterward in the halls, the sight of the field never slowed me down. However, it was the enemy's bodies that were being burned a ways away; the smells of burning flesh still lingered in the air making me reel backward. I saw a massive tent and headed there, seeing men sit outside the tent, talking. I could feel Saphira's presence coming from the tent as I fought the urge to vomit and made my way to the tent opening....

"What the hell are you doing outside?" I cursed. "Unless Saphira's dead or healing I don't want to see a single able bodied person sitting around! Is that clear?" a couple men hurried to get up and rushed into the tent but one stayed still, sitting there unfazed. I stalked up to him and glowered over him. He stood up until his face was mere inches from mine.

"What do you want?" he spat. "I'm not lifting a finger for a blasted lizard," he said hotly. I turned my full fury on him but he spoke before I could verbally rip him apart. Unleashing the anger I felt for this...this...

"There's nothing we can do for it, anyway," he sneered, looking up at me.

"Nothing you can do?" I growled, absolutely enraged at his lack of concern.

"Nope," he said offhandedly, looking into the tent "No one knows how dragons work and besides, it's like loosing a bitch or a cat. You get over it. In time you-," I didn't let him finish. I rammed my fist straight into his face as hard as I could. A blow fueled by rage and blinded fear. I watched him stagger back and trip over his seat before falling to the ground, blood pouring from his nose. I looked at his stunned face for a split second before running inside.

My heart leapt to my throat when I saw the kind of conditions Saphira was in. Her armor was off and she was lying on her stomach with the huge spear still embedded in her side, the tent was hot and musty with the smells of battle and her blood. I could hear a rough rasping sound as her body fought for every breath, her back rising and falling, slowly. I could see caked blood covering her side and the floor where I saw they never even tried to move her to a cleaner more sanitary area. Her wings dropped lifelessly at her sides, tears and rips coving their surface. One wing was almost torn completely off as the thin membrane lay in tatters on the floor. She bled from a dozen smaller wounds as well. I rushed to her head to find her eyes half closed. I dropped to my knees at her side, my breath coming fast, praying I wasn't too late-

(Saphira! Can you hear me? Saphira!) I thoughtspoke desperately.

(I can...) her voice was faint, almost a whisper, like it could fail at any moment.

(Hold on... Just hold on,) I begged her, tears swelling in my eyes. She was so invincible in battle... I thought. I stood up to find all eyes on me. Everybody was just sitting around, watching her die! Hatred laced fear bubbled over,

"Why the hell is nobody doing anything?" I raged. "If you don't start helping right now, you will have me to contend with!" I shouted as I grabbed for my sword before realizing it wasn't there. They just looked back at me, faces blank. As if I should know why. My hands shook as I balled them into fists. I felt an arm on my shoulder and my first instinct was to smash my fist into the person, I checked it. I turned around to find an elderly man in white robes staring at Saphira,

"There is nothing we can do for her. There is no way to pull that shaft out," the man said sadly.

"What about all the smaller wounds and tears in her wings? Can't do anything about those, Apothecary?" I spat.

"Eragon," the apothecary began with a sigh. "That won't do anything. Why would we waste supplies on a dieing dragon when we have men that have a chance a life? We need to think of the greater good. Leave her; there is nothing anyone can do. She will die and you will move on," he said this so plainly, I could not think of a retort. His word sounded so true and I fought not to believe them. These words echoed in my mind from when Saphira had said those exact same words. You will move on. I felt a great pain growing inside me and knew that I could not just 'move on'. Then I had an idea. I focused my mind on the task at hand,

"Not if I can help it," I said in a harsh whisper, raising my hand to show him a white mist that was radiating from my palm, from the silver tear shaped mark of the Rider that I carried. The pain I felt grew as the mist grew thicker. I knew the healing spell and had worked its magic on much smaller things, never anything as large as this. There was doubt in my mind of whether I could do it but I had to try. I had to try anything. I could never forgive myself if I didn't try.

I turned to Saphira, planted my legs and began, concentrated on healing. Healing myself and the small wounds of others was nothing but this, I wasn't sure. The words of magic flowed off my tongue in a low monotone. The temperature dropped as the mist pulsed and spread from my hand to the floor. The people gathered around the tent shivered and began moving towards the exit. It crept towards Saphira prone form and slowly began weaving its way around her

Eka ethgri

Atara ono Nagz un Waise Heill

Atara ono ethgri Helgrind.

Un wasie ono waise skolu fra atra

Eka tauthr, du grind huildr!

Eka ethgri

Atara ono Nagz un Waise Heill

Atara ono ethgri Helgrind.

Un wasie ono waise skolu fra atra

Eka tauthr, du grind huildr!

Eka ethgri

Atara ono Nagz un Waise Heill

Atara ono ethgri Helgrind.

Un wasie ono waise skolu fra atra

Eka tauthr, du grind huildr!

The words continued to come as the mist rolled over her. Tiny holes and tears knitted themselves back together as her wings became whole again. The power pulsed as it neared the shaft. I strained against the pull of the magic as I willed it to do what I doubted it could.

The mist surrounded the wooden shaft, slowly working its way down its length until it fully shrouded it from view. I focused harder, sweat beading on my forehead. The mist tugged on the spear, testing it. I heard a sickening tearing sound that almost brought me to my knees. I refocused as I chanted the spell again, my voice growing every time I repeated it. Each time my concentration was broken it was harder to regain it. I began the pinnacle of the spell, my voice rising to a shout. The magic tugged and strained against the spear and it was winning the battle. Slowly, the spear began to withdraw. I heard the tearing sound ringing in my ears as the spears barbs tore at Saphira's inside. She roared in excruciating pain, a roar that shook the very ground. I fell to my knees staring at her. Unable to take the pull the magic had on my mind and body or the pain I was inflicting on her. My breath came in short labored gasps as the mist began to disappear.

"No," I choked as the mist disappeared. I felt a hand on my shoulder and looked up to see the king.

"Eragon, stop this," the king demanded. "You are much too weak and will risk killing yourself along with Saphira." The king had followed me down without my knowing and was now standing behind me. Pretty good for an old man, I thought.

"I'm going to save her and or die trying and there's nothing you can do to stop me, so don't try," I gasped, jerking my shoulder from his grip.

"I'm not going to let you waste your life, Eragon. No matter how much you love her," He sighed. I climbed to my feet and looked him straight in the eye. I had known that he knew about our relationship but never thought he would bring it to light, or use is against me.

"Then you know I have to try. I just have to," I pleaded more with myself then him.

"Saphira wouldn't want you to throw your life away for her." The king said a little roughly.

"What's the use of life without her?" I howled sadly.

"You are too valuable to us, Eragon. I know that even you know there is a slim chance of this succeeding. Come with me," he said as he placed his hand on my shoulder again.

"I'm not leaving, I don't care how valuable I am to anyone," I answered so grimly that the king backed away as I jerked my shoulder out of his grasp and staggered to my feet. "The only way I'm leaving this tent is if I'm dead or she is," I didn't even turn around; I just started the spell again. The mist reappeared and thickened quickly as the spell gripped me again in its vice-like grasp. My mind fought for control over the spell but finally I prevailed. My breath caught in my throat as I pulled on the shaft again, harder this time. Saphira bellowed as the shaft started to move.

I shut my eyes tight as the magic pulled and strained, against the heart wrenching sounds Saphira was making. Finally the shaft ripped free and nearly impaled me against the wall. I jumped aside but sprang up and began sealing the gaping hole in her side. It felt like a thunderstorm was going off in my head as I closed the wound. I opened my eyes and looked weakly at Saphira, seeing that the hole was gone and she was resting. I let my eyelids droop fell back, everything swimming before my eyes. Not knowing if it was tears or fatigue. The king caught me and lowered me to the ground.

"I'll be dammed," the king muttered. "He did it."

I awoke once again in the healing wing of the castle and lied there. This place is getting old, I thought to myself. I kept hearing the sickening sounds of battle but none hit me harder then the heart wrenching sounds Saphira was making as I tried my best to heal her. Tears swam in my eyes as I thought of the agonizing pain I had inflicted on my luv. A thought jerked me from my bed. Was she all right?

(Saphira...)

(Eragon...)

My heart overflowed and I nearly leapt from my cot. Her voice was stronger now, not wafting within the valley of death as I heard it in the field. I leapt out of the bed and got as far as the door when the High Cardinal stopped me. I tried to go around him be he blocked the doorway.

"There you are, Rider. Feeling better?" he said with a smile that made me more then a little uncomfortable. This man was beginning to get on my last nerve...

"Yes," I said quickly. " Now it you'll excuse me, I need to be somewhere right now."

"Yes, you do. You need to come with me. I promised the perish an appearance from you after the battle, people need to keep their spirit up right?" My anger flared, what made him think-

"I take orders from the king only, out of my way," I snapped and pushed passed him.

"You take orders from me as well, Rider," he replied, his tone dangerous. I stopped but didn't turn around,

"Why should I take orders from you?" I asked over my shoulder, curious about his response.

"The king may rule over this kingdom but I am still higher then he is. Do you know why?" I turned around,

"Enlightened me, oh grand one," I mocked. His voice tightened,

"I have said it before and I will say is again. Watch your tongue," he glared, burning two holes into my back. "The king may rule this earthy realm but he must take orders from the higher power I am just here to translate her wishes into something that the king can understand."

"I always though the king ruled over all and had the last say in anything," I said, puzzled.

"The role I fill is of humble advisor," he said with a smile. "I do have the power to overrule him, as do all Cardinals, but I would never use this power for my own gain. To do such is against all the church stands for. Now, please follow me." He finished with a wave of his hand.

"I have to tend to Saphira," I answered, flat out refusing his command. The Cardinal looked at me, his eyes piercing.

"You will follow orders, Rider. That is what you are meant to do. Follow orders...unlike your little scene in the field with that dragon." He nearly spat the word 'dragon', making my blood boil. "Your job is to fight and die like a good little boy," I glared at him, trying my best to keep my flaming temper in control.

"Yes, well, unlike those who have served as Riders in the past, I don't take orders from just anyone and neither will I die for anyone," Now if you will excuse me, Cardinal, I have to tend to my dragon."

I turned and left the room before he could say a word, but I could feel his piercing eyes glare at me, burning into my back.

"One more thing before you go," he said and tossed something to me. I caught it automatically and saw it was a necklace and a pendent with a tiny silver dragon on it.

"What's this for?" I asked, skeptically.

"Just for luck," he said in that oily voice of his. I put the necklace in my pocket just to get away, thinking nothing of it.

"I want you to put it on."

"Why?" I asked, suspiciously.

"The king told me to give it to you," he answered smiling. I took the necklace out and put it on. His smile widened and I disappeared behind the corner.

Quietly I made my way out of the healing hall, turning right into another one to see that several of the men I had seen earlier were still there but looking much better then they had. Some though were gone, and some were still dying. I shook my head at the going battle for life and wondered why it was that there was a real need for war at all? I shoved the puzzling thoughts from my mind and headed to the only place I thought my luv might be... and that would be the hold.

I passed the rest of the people in a fog, not wanting to be distracted. People only stared as I passed though, their mouths agape and children hiding behind their mother's skirts. At one point Riders had held an all-powerful awe around them, that elevating them almost to the stature of immortal. I got looks of horror, for everyone had heard the stories that the Clerics tell. Some of the looks were of blind admiration, mostly from the soldiers who had seen me on the battlefield. But none of this fazed me, all I thought was the battle scene. How powerless I felt as Saphira and I fell from the sky, seeing the trap and blindly falling into it. I cursed myself horribly for that mistake. I nearly killed her...some Rider I was.

I began the long climb up to the hold and stopped to look around. The city was glittering in the setting light, making it look dazzling and peaceful, as if there was no war, no hassles in life. I looked up to the hold and wondered if Saphira would be angry with me. Would she scold me for my attempts in healing her, and for almost dieing myself in the process? These thoughts plagued me as I made my way further up until I stood at the mouth of the hold and looked in. It was brightly lit against the on coming night and I saw that there was food as well. But what concerned me most was I couldn't see Saphira. I tried mindspeaking but got nothing in return, and I wondered if those basterds left her in the field.

"If you ever...EVER do that again Eragon, I'll...I'll eat you!" Her words started out with a cold calmness to them and finished in a near scream. I spun around and saw her in the corner. Her arms were crossed and half of her half human form was in shadow. Her ears were flattened and a furious scowl covered her face. My heart thrummed painfully in my chest.

She was ok...she was angry.

She pushed herself off the wall and came toward me quickly and before I knew it she was in my arms and I in hers. I held her as close as I could and was thankful she didn't tried to pull away right away. I looked to her wings and saw the scars and the stained blood and tears formed in my eyes, but held her all the same. I felt her grip tighten and I touched her mind. She was scared to death.

"You idiot!" she cried as she pushed away and glared at me with her beautiful eyes. I saw the scar on her side and a wave of protectiveness washed over me. There was still blood on her...

"You shouldn't excite yourself Saphira you-"

"Oh don't you start!" she cried, throwing her hands up in frustration. "I don't know whether or not to be mad at you and treat you like a misbehaving hatchling or cry!"

"What!" I exclaimed.

"You know very well what I'm talking about. That spell could have killed you! You knew how dangerous a healing spell of that size can be," she said with the same scowl and then sighed, "I'm just glad it didn't."

I gave a small laugh and hung my head. I raised my head and held out my hand, which she took. I held her in my arms and hushed her.

"Your not the only one who was concerned..." I said looking down at her. She scowled.

"I know that spell was dangerous but I could not let you die."

"What would have happened if you died but saved me, hmmm? I wouldn't be able to take it."

"How do you think I feel?" she pushed away.

"How you feel? That was a stupid stunt, that was-"

She threw up her hands and turned away from me making a disgusted sound. I saw a slight limp in her wings that made me suddenly worried.

"You should sit down, you shouldn't worry-" I began and headed to the pillows. She crossed her arms and suddenly laughed.

"You're not going to try and put me in your pocket Eragon. I'm not made of glass I won't break, I promise." She shook her head as I tried to reach for her, but she turned away.

(Don't try to follow me Eragon...I'm just going to bath to get the stains of battle off...)

I watched her walk down and headed down after her when I felt something yank me back. But there was no one in the hold.

(I said don't Eragon...please I just want to be alone with my thoughts...)

I sat on the cushions and laid back on them, feeling my body leaden with sleep. I was incredibly tired, physically and emotionally.

(I love you...) I said gently before sleep over came me.

Saphira heard Eragon's word but just kept walking. She was a mix of anger, relief and love, all going on at the same time, making her more and more confused. Saphira neared the bottom of the stairs and saw the mineral spring. Tears leapt forth as she remembered the time that Eragon and her had spent down here and the fact that she had almost lost him. For the first time she realized the depth of there love. Eragon had saved her life, even if it meant losing his, and she met that with scorn.

"I have my reasons," she said to the water. Before climbing in she looked around and found herself scowling at the water. She was still upset about him nearly killing himself, making her all jumbled up. He was acting foolishly...but she would have done the same, she admitted to herself. She ruffled her wings out of frustration and dived into the water. It made her shiver as she surfaced and wondered about Eragon. How he felt about what was happening. She knew he loved her, and yet she just waved it way each time.

Annoyed with herself she began a rigorous washing with the linen she had found. The blood seemed to keep on her, making her scrub harder. But it wasn't just the blood she was trying to get off. It was the feeling of the icy chill near death had brought her and the near death of Eragon. She had felt his mind slip away as if it was her own. That was part of the reason she was so mad at him.

She felt him die.

He was acting arrogantly, and foolishly. He knew very well that spell could and should have killed him. But he had done it out of love, and fear of loosing her. Did she really mean that much to him?

She submerged beneath the water and pushed deeper into it. Its warmth was soothing, making her remember that night not so long ago that her and Eragon had shared. It was a beautiful memory that was soon shattered with the memories of the battle. In her true dragon for she killed all who opposed her, without remorse or feeling. All she remembered was the feeling of Eragon in her mind and the unpleasant sounds of wailing men and the sounds of swords meeting fragile human flesh. The armor she had wore held up...until she leapt into the air. There was no way that they could know about the long barbed spear or the trap set. She had acted on instinct and Eragon's command.

She surfaced and looked into the steam and wondered what was to happen now. Surely peace? But that wasn't the main thing on her mind. It was she and Eragon. The king had used the love against Eragon, but she knew no one thought he could save her. She herself was astounded to feel the magic enter the wound and pull on the barb. It was like fire had been poked into her side as it was pulled out, making it unbearable. She knew that Eragon never mean for to hurt her, but needed to help her while the others that were around her sat and poked at her. She wanted to bite their fingers off for touching her...

She sighed and ruffled her wings in the water, sending little droplets scattering in all directions. She felt the healed flesh being tickled by the water. But nothing could stop the turmoil in her heart or the tears that came to her eyes. And in the heart of the steam she cried. She submerged into the water and spread her wings against the water, trying to keep from the tears that still threatened. The blood from her wings clouded the water before her and made her think more.

But she made her way to the edge and rested her head on her crossed arms looking to the cavern walls. There was something she couldn't quite understand about everything. How was it that Brome made it with his own dragoness love without the ridicule and the fear of the people? Of course that was when dragons were widely seen and known before they were lost and that they were well known to all. But there was powers in herself she knew and yet there were still those she dared not know about. When Brome was alive she felt an inner peace in him about everything around them. And she found that same inner peace in Eragon but to a lesser degree. They were both still rather young, she thought. Maybe, with time Eragon would find that same sort of peace.

Saphira sighed heavily and stuck her tongue out as if it was to her situation. She loved Eragon, but she never told him, had she? She tried to remember but nothing came up. Frustrated once again she pushed against the side of the spring and looked around. It was a peaceful spot to collect ones thoughts...that is if they were willing to be collected.

She went to the shallow end where she could get out and shook the water off her wings. She liked this form, she thought to herself. Human women she had seen before were a varied shape and size, but there were ones that caught the eyes of men faster. They had ample waists and long hair. Saphira was as she thought she should be; her breasts were full and round, her legs long...she had to admit this was overall a better form. It was far more graceful then her full Draconic form.

Slowly she reached for a towel and briskly dried off with the linen she had already down here and folded her wings over herself in modesty. It was something she had thought was appropriate, as to not to distract herself as well as Eragon. She silently went up the stairs and grinned to herself. There was a hunger in her that was new, and it was most welcomed. But she didn't think it involved food.

She stopped just before entering the room to make sure she listened for others besides Eragon in the hold. But she didn't even hear Eragon, which was strange. She touched his mind and found nothing there. She came into the hold and saw that he was fast asleep in the cushions, their meal untouched, as was the flask with the meal. She walked silently over to him and felt her heart melt anew. He looked so peaceful sleeping it made her smile brightly. She sat softly next to him and gently brushed a piece of his hair from his face and wondered. Should she wake him or let him rest? A slight movement from his sleeping form made the decision for her. His arm came out and knocked her unsuspectingly onto the cushions next to him and found him holding her close. She couldn't help but laugh. Awake or asleep it was an unsuspecting move from him.

I awoke with Saphira in my arms and grinned. She smelled of the lye soap she had probably bathed with and her own fragrance that made my heart turn over. She was resting at least, I thought. I looked down at her sleeping face and leaned down to gently kiss her long slender neck. She moved slightly but made no other movement. I grinned and nearly laughed as my stomach grumbled and looked to the tray of food that was there when I got there. I had wondered what the food was for...surely the King wanted me there to eat with the other men and to dine with the king himself but...I shrugged it away. I didn't care really for anyone's company but Saphira's at the moment. I rose carefully and stretched, groaning as my muscles tightened and my joints popped and seemed to creak. I wondered if I should wake Saphira but thought against it. She needed to rest and this was the only way I could get her to.

I would of course make sure there was plenty enough for her, but the thought of food was too good to pass up right now. I uncovered the meal and found it still hot. There was some sort of meat that smelled so good that made my mouth water. There were vegetables of course and other items on it I didn't recognize. But I didn't care. I took the flask near hand and uncorked the top and took a couple big gulps of it. It tasted like ale but it had a different zing to it and a much better aftertaste. It could have been mead but I really didn't think too much about it. I tore into the meat and was rewarded with a delightful foreign taste.

I nearly finished off the entire meal when I heard Saphira stir on the cushions and realized I was making a pig of myself. With a slight chuckle I pushed away from the food and went over to her. Her long tale twitched slightly as did her wings, making me believe she was waking up. I sat next to her and traced her cheek gently, making her eyes flutter open. I smiled, not knowing what kind of terms we were on. She just smiled back and sat up to face me.

"Saphira, I-" she put a finger to my lips.

"Don't start," she said quietly closing her eyes briefly and shaking her head.

"I just wanted to say I'm sorry for scaring you," I said in a breath.

"I think were both sorry, you just mean so much to me, Eragon. I guess I just overreacted," she said almost apologetically. I moved closer and put my head on her shoulder,

"No, you have every right to be mad at me," I said with a sigh. "I just couldn't think of anything else and there was no way I was going to do nothing," I said lifting my head up and looking her in the eyes. She smiled and hugged me tightly, draping her wings over us both.

"I just don't want you going anywhere," she said with a sigh. "Besides, if you were gone whom would I have to push around?" she asked playfully as she pushed me down into the pillows and lay down beside me. I smiled to her and closed my eyes as I wrapped my arms around her.

Just then a bolt of lightning split the sky illuminating the entrance of the hold and it began to pour. I felt a cold wind rise up from the north and blow through the entrance making the scones that lit the hold flicker and sputter. Saphira looked up and with a wave of her hand and placed an invisible barrier over the opening. The wind was cut off and the water stopped flowing in as the barrier formed, making it warmer in the hold. I shivered slightly as I watched the rain beat against the clear pane. Saphira nestled closer into my chest and draped another wing over me as I wrapped my arm around her shoulder.

"Nice trick," I said smiling and interlacing my fingers with hers.

"It helps," she said closing her eyes.

I listened to the rain beat against the pane for a long while accompanied by the occasional flash and rumble of lightning and thunder. I listened to Saphira's steady breathing, knowing that she was deep asleep. My mind drifted back to what she had said after we had first made love. She said that I could never tell anyone. My thoughts centered on this problem. I knew I loved her too much to keep slinking around like this, hiding my true feelings. Part of me wanted to tell the whole kingdom, to shout out my love but the other part was unsure at how this would be received. Would people embrace it? Or, would they shun it as sin as I had been afraid the king would? And how would that pompous High Cardinal react? Much less the Clerics I thought bitterly. How would she fit into society? How would it work? All of these questions were flying around in my head so fast that it made me dizzy. Was there any way to make this relationship work and was Saphira thinking the same thing?

I looked over at the entrance to see that true night had fallen and the storm had picked up in ferocity. I gently untangled myself from Saphira's grasp, ever careful not to awaken her and walked to the entrance of the hold. I knew that sleep was best for both of us but my mind would not be quieted. I leaned on the cold rock walls. They felt good to my frazzled brain. Everything around us was changing, and all we could do was try to keep up. The world was on a new course and I had no idea how Saphira and I fit into the grand new schema...if we did at all. I gazed at my silver palm and wondered... How was I chosen for this? Why did Saphira hatch for me and nobody else?

"I wish Brom was here," I sighed and looked out at the storm. "He would know what to do." He always knew how calm my mind, or how to make something make sense. I smiled slightly to myself as I remembered all of the teaching...and swearing, that man sure was a mixed bag. I swear I still have the bruises from or sparring fights when he had been trying to teach a boy how to fight with a sword.

"He's been gone for three years already," I told myself, trying to push the painful memories out of my mind. "He's not here and I have to figure this out on my own," I told myself, the words sounding hollow. I looked down at my palm, "I'm the Rider now and nothing I do is going to change that...

I just have to do what Riders do and go along for the ride."

Thinking of the Riders put my mind back at the battle and how utterly ferocious Saphira was. How could a creature so fierce be capable of human love and caring? Was she even human to start with? My subconscious began gnawing at me as I looked at the storm. Brom had loved his partner but that was then and this was now. The world he had lived in was far different than this war-torn, chaotic world. The Riders of old had been defenders and protectors. Their order had been established for the good of the people, not some damned bureaucracy! I banged my fist on the rock in frustration. No matter what we did we were just pawns in a bigger game. It was the King, the Cardinal, or some committee and we had no choice in the matter. I looked back at Saphira and saw her waking, the sight of her and the bond I knew we shared shattered any wisps of any questions or doubts. I can't really explain it but whenever I am with her I know that we will find a way, that I can always pull through.

She saw me standing at the entrance and rose, blinking the sleep out of her beautiful blue eyes. She came up behind me and unfurled her wings and wrapped them around me. I could feel her warmth pressing against my shoulders. She followed my gaze outside and made a disgusted face, I smiled at her expression.

"I wouldn't want to be flying in this weather," she said setting her chin on my shoulder.

"I wouldn't want to be out in this weather, period," I replied, chuckling.

"Good thing we're in here, right?" she asked.

I hummed in response, watching the storm pass us by and wondered what it was about this storm that made me feel calmed? I felt Saphira tighten her arms around me and smiled softly.

"Your tense...everything alright?" Saphira asked nuzzling my neck. Her soft scales against my skin made me sigh. I watched the rain beat against the barrier and ran my hands over her arms that she had wrapped around me. I felt her shift behind me and I looked over my shoulder at her. She had rested her eyes as her head lay on my shoulder. I felt peace wash over me for the first time since this journey began and closed my eyes.

(You think too much Eragon...)

I laughed out loud and moved away from her slightly, turning to look at her. She grinned making me believe that no matter how ferocious and fearsome she was in her true form...she was loving, caring and sincere and no matter how bad things go we could still get through it, together.

"You're scowling..." Saphira said looking a bit confused. I shook my head lightly and took her in my arms gently, kissing the tip of her nose.

"I'm sorry. Your right, I am thinking too much."

She smiled and wrapped her slender arms around my neck and nuzzled just beneath my chin. I growled slightly and nuzzled her long neck, which made her laugh. I chuckled and kissed her neck, gently running my hands up and down her shoulders to where her delicate wings met with her body. I traced them carefully, using my fingertips lightly. She shivered, making me smile and gently trace the folds and touched the new skin of her wings. Saphira shivered and suddenly, I felt a pleasant stinging in my neck. She had bit me, but it wasn't the surprising bite she had given me in the spring.

This made my blood hum delightfully, making me nibble her soft shoulder in return. My hands continued to work down until they rested on her hips. Her wings started to move and lifted my hands from her sides. She unfurled her wings slowly, dragging their tips over her chest and smiling at me. I thought this was meant to entice me but only preceded to give her a violent shiver. I smiled as she closed her eyes and slightly opened her mouth in self-pleasure. I smirked,

"Well, it looks like you don't need me anymore," I said chuckling softly. Saphira breathed heavy for a few seconds, I hugged her closer without fear of crushing her wings. Her warmth infused my tired body and gave me new strength. I was still tired and sore after the battle and I assumed that she was also. The thought that I had almost lost her made my blood run cold. Saphira felt me shivering and frowned.

"Why don't we get away from the entrance?" she asked, leading me away into the hold. "It's getting colder over here, despite the barrier." I nodded and followed her over to the pillows again.

Saphira lay down slowly, still favoring her side. I slumped down next to her, totally exhausted.

"Ohhh, it feel good to lay down," she groaned as she laid her head back and stretched. "I don't know about you," she said, turning her head to look sideways at me. "But that battle took its toll on me."

"Tell me about it," I said feebly and rolled onto my side. I smiled, "Just wait until next time," I said with a smile. She laughed,

"I'd rather not."

"I know, me neither," I said simply and smiled. Saphira draped a wing over me and moved close, her face almost touching mine.

"I think sleep is the best thing for both of us," I agreed by smiling weakly.

"I love you," I said quietly. Saphira looked straight back at me,

"I love you too, Eragon," she said quietly. I felt a great sense of worth and pride upon hearing her say those words. I closed my eyes with the vision of my loves face.

I awoke to the sun streaming in through the opening. I opened my eyes but quickly shut them as the sun stung them. I blinked, trying to adjust to the light. I saw Saphira lying close to me, snuggled up against my chest. I kissed her neck and she started to stir. I smiled as I watched her roll over and stretch. She arched her back slowly and raised her arms behind her head. I watched the sunlight play over her body, crating a rainbow of colors as it bounced off her shimmering scales. She let out a yawn,

"Morning," she said through a contented sigh.

"Morning my luv," I said as I crawled over and on to her. She rotated her hips until I was directly on top of her, smiling down.

"My. My, somebody's in a good mood," she said with a giggle.

I snaked my hands behind her back and felt her wings, still flat against her back. I raised an eyebrow,

"Say, don't you need to stretch these too," I said as I ran my fingers up her wings. She shook,

"Yes, as a matter of fact. I do," her eyes narrowed and before I knew it she had flipped me over and now she was on top. She smirked down at me and closed her eyes. She arched her back down towards me and unfurled her wings to their full length. She extended them out to their full length and then ruffled them back into place.

"Well, now that's over with," She yelped in surprise as I rolled her back underneath me. I kissed her neck and started to work my way down,

"Eragon," I looked up and put on my best innocent face, "Don't you think it's a little early for this?" she said raising an eye and smiling.

"No," I said plainly and continued kissing and teasing down to her chest but before I knew it she had flipped on top of me again,

"Then we do it my way," she said with a grin. Not to be outdone I rolled over to the side and on top again,

"We're going to be at this all morning you know?"

"Yah, I know," she said with a playfully annoyed sigh. Something told me to look up, I don't know what it was but I wish I hadn't...

There, in the doorway was a servant. His mouth hung open and he stared.

(Saphira! Look!) I mindspoke. She tilted her head back, unsure of what was so important. She saw the servant as well and we quickly detangled from each other.

We had been found out! How could I have been so careless? Shit, now what do we do? Maybe he'll be too scared to say anything? Maybe I can talk him into keep his mouth closed. Shit what do I do? I thought frantically, my thought coming like hard raindrops, too many and too fast.

Saphira changed quickly and tried to hide behind me. I reached into her mind and found unsure and scared feelings, much like my own. I regained my composure quickly,

"Do you have a message for me?" I asked quickly, standing there in only my breeches.

"I...uh...ahhh...y- yes, master Eragon. I have a m- message from the High Cardinal Ambrose. We have captured a key prisoner and he thinks that you would like to interview him yourself," he talked quickly and without emotion. I guessed him to be about my age, blonde hair and dark green eyes. He was smaller them me and was dressed in a white tunic and brown breeches.

(Eragon?) Saphira asked in a quivering voice.

(I know, I know. What do we do?)

(Frighten him into keeping quiet? I think we could do that. After what he saw...) she trailed off

(I know)

"Master Eragon?" the messenger asked quietly. I had been quiet for almost a minute, conversing with Saphira.

"Yes. Yes, tell Ambrose I will see him tomorrow, tell him the prisoner isn't going anywhere. You may go," he nodded quickly and disappeared down the hallway. I'm not about to jump at his command like some lapdog, I thought to myself. Let him wait. The prisoner isn't going anywhere.

(Well, now what do we do?) Saphira asked.

(Prey that he keep his mouth shut. What else can we do?) I'll see what Ambrose wants tomorrow. Saphira took my hand and led me down onto the pillows.

I found myself stirring against the pillows and looked around, not knowing what had awoken me in the first place. Saphira and I had spent the entire day with each other, just enjoying each other's company. The storm from the previous night had started up again. The hold was darkened as the storm pounded against the barrier Saphira had put there. She had left it up all day because it was conveniently soundproof. I looked down at where Saphira was and found that she wasn't there. Panic seized me and I leapt to my feet and squinted against the darkness in the hold trying my best to find her.

(Saphira?) I mindspoke out to her and felt warmth flood thought me.

(Eragon? What are you doing up?) She asked, confusion in her voice.

(I just woke up...where are you?) I asked again. I felt her laughter in my mind.

(I'll be back in a moment, lay back down.)

I did as she said and suddenly felt a light wind against my cheek. It was Saphira, I knew, but the darkness prohibited me to see her or anything around me. I waited for her touch and found myself eager for it. It seemed like forever before I felt her hand on my shoulder, I jumped slightly. I heard her laughter ring through the air and grabbed at her. She was in my lap, moving around and laughing.

"Where did you go?" I asked her feeling my way to her belly. She felt warm to the touch.

"I went down to the spring, that's all." She said snaking her hand up my chest to my face, unable to see too well. I relished in her touch, her smooth hands felt so wonderful on my bare flesh.

I laughed and ran my fingertips over her belly, which made her giggle and squirm.

"You know...I think I'm beginning to like not being able to see. But see by touch." I confessed as I began to run my hand upward. Saphira shivered again as my hand ran in between her breasts.

"I think I am too." She said shifting in my lap. I laid her against the pillows and leaned my head down and met with what I hoped was her shoulder. I kissed upward slowly, feeling her hands on my back, up to her long elegant neck. I ran my fingertips back down her belly to her side, running my fingertips feather-light as I traced her hip and stopped there.

I felt Saphira's hands roam down my back and realized sometime during the night I had lost my shirt. The thought quickly left as I felt Saphira's hands run down my sides. It tickled immensely but at the same time made my blood hum. I nipped at her neck gently and was rewarded with the quick intake of breath from her that made me smile. I trailed my mouth up her jaw to her mouth, kissing her passionately.

My hand on her hip inched closer and closer to the soft side of her inner thighs and ran my fingertips up softly. Saphira bit my lower lip in a kiss, making me loose where I was. I couldn't help but open my eyes only to be met with darkness, and laughed.

"This is rather interesting, don't you think?" I asked her softly. I hear her laugh and couldn't help but join her in it. It was a wonderful sound, our laughter mingling together. I reached for her again and was met with a giggle.

"That's my tail." She said, moving her tail around and met with my side gently.

"Hey! You can see can't you?" I accused her and was met with more laughter.

"Maybe... after all, nobody knows a Dragon's full powers," she said laughing harder then before. I reached for her and heard her laughter soften.

(Apparently I found you.) I said trying to see through her eyes to see where it was I was running my hand. But, of course I was blocked and laughed slightly.

(Well then...) I said leaning down, running my mouth on her skin...where ever it was.

It was very slow, making love to her, my luv. Finding all her pleasurable spots in nothing but darkness proved more rewarding to both of us then it ever would in the light, or even paled light that the stars and the moon usually gave off to guide us. I slowly began moving my hand again. I could tell I was going in the right direction because of the softer scales on her inner thighs. My hand gently brushed by her sex, making her breath catch in her throat and shift slightly.

(Tonight?) I asked, softly.

(We're alone...) Saphira answered quietly, and pulled me into a deep kiss. My palm flashed and several ov the scones along the wall jumped to life, filling the hold with a soft glow. I wrapped my arm around her shoulder and drew her close. I felt her warmth mingle with my own as she slowly began pushing me on my back. I let her take the lead and she was soon on top of me. He eyes had a predatory gleam as she looked down at me, and smiled. I could quickly feel Saphira's arousal starting to flow, quickly warming my pants. It was hot and had the sent of Star Jasmine to it that made goose bumps appear all over my skin. I inhaled the deep aroma and sighed as my blood pounded in my ears. Her hands roamed over my chest, eyes closed in silent ecstasy. Her wings ruffled slightly as my hands brushed her thighs and her low back. Her skin was hot to the touch as her whole body radiated heat.

I pushed her down towards me as I rose to meet her in a kiss. Her lips parted slowly and I tasted her hot mouth, her temperature had risen considerably do to her state or arousal. She moaned into my mouth as my hands rubbed up her belly and found her chest. I gently cupped her left breast and fondled it teasingly, feeling her body move against mine as I did. Her grip on my hips tightened as she moaned into another kiss. I brushed my hands down her front, tickling her sensitive underside, my right hand stopped right above the lips of her sex.

(Eragon...) Saphira sent to me, her voice wavering.

(What is it?) I asked quietly, my mind in a warm fog, as I was also too caught up to actually talk.

(Please...) she answered, pleadingly. She almost sounded afraid that I would deny her. She broke the kiss and I smiled up at her, which she returned. I heard a sharp intake of breath as I slipped two fingers deep into her velvety folds. Feeling the scorching heat against my fingers.

I slowly slid her off my hips and down onto the soft pillows. I rolled over on my left side keeping with her as I did. Saphira laid her head back, her breath coming in short gasps as I found a steady rhythm with my fingers, teasing her inner folds delicately. I slid my left hand behind her head to support it as she writhed under the attention I was giving her. I noticed that every few movements my fingers brushed her clit. Her fingers dug into the pillows and her tail whipped around, her teeth clamped down upon her lower lip. She wrapped her tail around her leg to keep it under control as her muscles tightened around my fingers. Saphira bit her lip harder to keep from screaming, and shut her eyes tight as the ecstasy flashed through her frame. She arched her back against my hand as she fought for control over her body. Her breathing was erratic as she gasped for air. I slowed my pace, slowly bringing her down from the peak.

Saphira lay there for a few seconds but recovered quickly. She turned her head and looked at me,

"You ok?" I asked jokingly. She just shook her head slightly and quickly rolled on top again. We were chest to chest as she looked into my eyes. Her eyes spellbound me, I couldn't look away. Suddenly her eyes flashed with that same predatory gleam,

"My turn," she said seductively as her neck leaned down and bit the tender flesh just beneath my ear. Pleasure shot trough me as she trailed down my neck; I could feel her tongue twirling here and there making goose bumps appear once again. Her hands lightly trailed down my sides to my hips, then back up slightly harder.

I ran my fingers down her back as she trailed her kisses down lower, along my collarbone. She lapped at the hallow places there, flickering her tongue. I placed my hands on her head gently as she began to move downward once more. My body was drawn like a drum by now, every touch every movement of her body against mine sent shivers. I bit my lower lip, feeling her teeth gently scrap against my nipple, making me moan slightly. The tips of her velvety fingers trailed lower then my hips, but avoiding where I wanted her touches the most. Her attentions moved to my other nipple as she scrapped her nails along the inner flesh of my thighs, making my breath come faster. I felt her hot mouth trail further down my body, her chin slightly grazing my heated flesh, but nothing more.

She bit slightly at my belly button, her hands scrapping down along my hips to my inner thighs. This was getting to be almost too much now. My hands grabbed the pillows beneath me. I looked down at her just as I felt her kissing my hip, her cheek just barely brushing against it. I closed my eyes and tried to touch her mind. She blocked me just as she gently bit my inner thigh softly. I gripped the pillows harder, but made no movement to guide her...she already knew.

(You're teasing...) I mindspoke to her aloud, but noticed my voice sounded deeper then usual.

I heard her laugh slightly as she lightly ran her tongue along my sex. I bit my lower lip harder as her mouth enclosed over my sex, I felt her tongue move slowly as her mouth moved. She went very slow, making every movement draw my body tighter and tighter until I couldn't stand it any more.

(Saphira...) I felt her mouth slowly leave and looked up at me with the same predatory gleam in her eyes.

(Yes luv?) She said almost innocently. I led her back up my body, to where our lips met briefly. I moved her hips slightly, making it plain what it was I wanted, what I desperately needed. She smiled against my lips and settled slightly over my sex, taking just the head. She moved slowly, never going deeper but just teased there. I gripped her sides hard as I felt her quickly leave.

I felt her breath against my neck and shivered, creating goose bumps over my skin. She ran her teeth along my ear making my body shiver again. I gripped her arms and threw her onto her back, pinning her beneath me. I looked down into her sapphire eyes and grinned as I leaned down to take her mouth. As I kissed her deeply, I held her hands over her head and slowly slipped into her. It wasn't until I was entirely within her that I stopped and looked at her. Saphira's eyes were closed, almost as if in rapture, her mouth slightly opened.

I withdrew slightly, and then pressed hard into her again. She writhed beneath me, her legs on either side of me. Her wings shivered as I slowly receded and forcefully pressed back into her.

(Eragon...oh gods...) she was breathless. I moved slightly faster, leaning down to nibble along her neck and jaw. Our movements grew more and more rapid as we both neared. Saphira's hands slipped from mine, and was scratching down my back slightly harder then she had before. I opened my eyes as I felt Saphira arch against me and watched her face. She cried out slightly into the pillow next to her as her climax took hold of her.

(ERAGON!) I became lost in the brilliant colors she shared with me as my own apex grew closer and closer with every movement. Her fingers digged into my lower back as her hips moved against mine, I gripped the pillows beneath my hands as I came close and closer. I closed my eyes tightly, feeling Saphira all around me. My back arched as I released into her, making her arch against the feeling. I collapsed somewhat upon her, the world filled with brilliant colors going black.

We lied there exhausted in the end, panting for the breath we were robbed of. I wrapped my arms around her tightly and kissed some spot along her head and felt myself drift off to sleep.

I shivered through my tunic as I walked down the dark, dank spiral stairs. Candles flickered in alcoves along the walls, throwing everything into a crazy dance of shadows as I passed. Water dripped from the ceiling and splattered on my leather vest and reminded me that I was deep inside the mountain. The Dwarven High Lord was kind enough to let us use his dungeons.

The stairs ended abruptly and I was faced with three tunnels. I could hear the cries and moans of the dregs of humanity as I stood there. Luckily, there was a guard standing at the bottom of the stairs that saluted quickly and motioned me to follow. I was led down the right hand tunnel for quite a length of time until we met up with another guard that was standing in front of a cell. We stopped In front of a large steel door as the guard second guard opened the door.

I was immediately hit with a vile stench as I stepped inside, almost making me reel back into the hallway. The room was roughly hewn, about ten by ten, huge manacles hung on the wall and straw littered the floor. Cardinal Ambrose was standing with his back to me and turned when I walked in.

"There you are, Rider. I thought you would want to interrogate this prisoner yourself," he said in a dark voice.

"Why? What wrong?" I asked, now thoroughly suspicious. A horse voice croaked from the wall,

"Who's this little worm?" I looked past the Cardinal, towards the wall. There sitting against the wall was the ugliest creature that I have seen in my life. I recognized as an orc immediately, although a bit scrawny. It was covered in black leather with plate armor scattered over its body, obviously scavenged form fallen foes. Its face was a sickly gray color and had a mask of scars, old and new. Its hooked nose pointed down and to the right, obviously broken. The Cardinal's voice broke by gaze

"You would do well to hold your tongue, beast," he said with a sneer.

"And what if I's don't? You gonna sick this little worm on mes?" he laughed as my face burned.

"Who is this and why did you want me to interview it?" I asked, turning away from the creature. Ambrose headed for the door, taking the guard with him. My heart began to race in my chest as I watched him leave.

"I'll let you figure it out, Rider," he said as he closed the door. The torches flickered as the door closed until we were left in a steady orange glow.

Integrate him? I thought. I don't know the first thing about interrogation, let alone why this orc was of any importance to our cause. And the look on the Cardinal's face was almost enough to tell me that this particular orc was not of importance to our cause, bit to me. This creature has to be of some importance to the kingdom or Ambrose would not have been down here in the first place. Much less go to the trouble of capturing him.

"What ya just standin there fer?" Make me talk or gret one," he said making a fake bow as the manacles scrapped against the wall. I scowled and leaned up against the wall,

"I would show a little more respect it I were you," I said with a sly smile, knowing that I had nothing to fear from this creature. The orc looked puzzled for a moment them broke out laughing,

"And why should I be afraid of a scrawny wretch like you? All ya are be a lap dog fer da king."

"Alright, what are you, some orc commander? Or just one's little bitch," I spat. "You're too small and scrawny to be anything else." The orc lunged at me, straining against his restraints.

"You'll be paying for that," he roared then smiled, "I don't be knowing why yer king be want'en me. All I do is fire the thing that killed that bastard fly'en beast. I got it right where the boss told me to." I didn't even think, my hands lunged for his throat, images of Saphira running through my head.

"You bastard! I'll kill you!" I felt my hands wrap around his neck, feeling my fingers scrabble for purchase on his oily skin. I didn't see the kick that was aimed at my stomach. His pointed steel boot connected and sent me back against the wall. I stood there, grasping my midsection as he laughed,

"Now that I 'member, I saw a humie on top of it. Might ya be that..." he said thinking.

I closed my eyes and opened my mind to draw on the magic, pure hatred and anger filling my mind, closing out all other thought. God dam it, I have the fucking bastard right here.

"I'll make you pay for what you did, you filth." My rage pored into the magick as I forged it into a shape. The energy coursed through my veins, just begging to be let out. Saphira shot into my mind but I blocked her shouts out. My hair shot up and flapped around my head as I drew deep. All the pain that she had felt drove into my heart like a razor, its blood poring on the magic, making it harder then steel... I finally hade a focus to unleash on...and it felt good.

"What does goen on? What are ya?" he said in a panicked voice, thrashing against the chains.

"You hurt the only good thing in my life," I said as I lifted my arm and opened my palm. Energy the color of blood crackled over my palm. I was about to end his life when Saphira's voice shattered the barrier I had erected to keep her out. Her voice was like thunder, making the magic waver slightly.

(ERAGON, STOP!) She yelled.

(Stay out of this Saphira!) I yelled back. I felt her bristle,

(Brom said that with great power, comes great responsibility. Remember?) She snapped.

(I know, but...) I started.

(No! Stop this instant! Before you do something that you're going to regret.)

(You don't know what I have here. I cannot let him just get away with what he did to you,) I said with finality in my voice and shut her out again.

Saphira's voice had knocked some sense into me as I remembered the king wanted me to get information from him. I brought my other hand up, next to the first. A red glow surrounded the orc as I lifted him into the air. I lifted him until his restrains groaned on protest. I flicked my left wrist and his body jerked violently. I head a crack as his right wrist broke. He howled in pain as the bone jutted through his flesh, his blood oozing from the broken flesh. "Where is the army striking next?" I asked, my voice as cold as ice.

"Don't know! They dunna tell us anyting," he said in a panicked voice.

"Wrong answer," I said and I twisted my left wrist, I heard his tibia shatter. He screamed as the bone shards sliced him. "You must know something. Anything would be of help. Anything to save your sorry hide." I spat, feeling the rage in me grow. I was getting impatient with this thing.

"I 'eard some'a the boyz talken 'bout Sharnrin Pass! That all I knows!" he said, quickly.

"What about it?" I inquired as I squeezed my hand, watching his foot crumple like paper, breaking every bone. His screamed filled the small cell as blood continued to pool on the floor. The smell became stronger and stronger until it overwhelmed all my senses.

"Don knows! I's not telled!" he screamed.

"You're lying," I said, simply as moved my hand as to open a doorknob. I twisted slowly, seeing, him twitched as I heard the tendons in his shoulder snap and rip as his left shoulder dislocated. "Now, how did they know there'd be a Dragon? And have the perfect strategy to kill it?" The ork just hung there, panting. "Answer me!" I shouted, breaking a few of his ribs to make my point. His howling screams deafened me slightly.

"We's knew! Somebudy told us!" My eyes flared as the thought of a traitor filtered through my rage.

"A traitor..." I whispered. "Who? Who is it? Tell me," I demanded.

"I's never sawed him!" he pleaded.

"Useless...." I said as I turned around and headed for the door. I clenched my hand into a fist and heard a wet crack behind me.

The Tavern was alive with late night patrons as the cloaked figure slipped through the door, blocking out the chill night and the storm that beat relentlessly against the heavy timber door. Men sat nursing a glass of mead in their hands or a well-rounded barmaid. Laughter and joking could be heard throughout the room as no one gave the newcomer a second glance. He quietly slipped to a table in the corner, away from the light of the fire and waited, his arms crossed under his cloak and his hood drawn up.

Soon two other soldiers walked into the bar and joined the hooded man.

"Anything to report?" asked the first stranger.

"Nothing new," one of the soldiers answered.

"If anything's going on they're keeping a tight lid on it," the second solider added.

"Well, if anything new happens I want you to notify me at once, understood?" he asked.

"Yes sir. We-" he was cut off by a hand as the first stranger whispered,

"Quiet. Listen to this," he said and pointed towards the bar where a young man was standing in front of a group of men. It looked like he was acting out a scene.

"So then king told me to deliver a message to the Dragon Rider, Eragon, right?" he said laughing. "So I got up to that dam hold and what did I see?" he asked, pausing.

"What did you see, Scotty? Come on tell us?" a gruff man demanded.

"He was fucking the dam Dragon! It's true, I swear! I have never seen anything like it in all my life!" he said taking a huge swig of mead. The soldiers looked at the stranger who was fixed on the conversation. Shouts of disbelief could be heard all around

"You sure you weren't drunk, Scotty? The same gruff man laughed.

"How the bloody hell would that work. I seen that dragon, it's huge," another man added.

"The Dragon didn't look like the Dragon. It-It was smaller and looked like a dam hot woman."

"Now I know yer were drunk, Scotty, off with ye. Don't ye have some messages to deliver?" one big man laughed.

"It's true," the youth protested.

"Sure it is and I'm the dam king!" the whole group roared with laughter as the storyteller stalked off.

The stranger sprang up and walked over to the youth, his soldier friends at his sides.

"That was quite an interesting story you told over there, pity they didn't believe you," the stranger said, leaving his cloak and hood on. The youth was now sitting at the bar with another glass on mead.

"Ah, they don't believe 'nutten I say," the teenager said, not turning around.

"It would be doing me a great favor if you would tell it to me again."

"Why da ya want to here it? And why should I tell it again?" he said turning around.

"Let's just say I need information and I will make it worth your wile," he answered pulling out a bright, blue sapphire diamond. The teen snatched the jewel greedily and pocketed it.

"What do you want to know?" he asked. The hooded man smiled,

"Lets go to a place and talk in private," he replied and motioned to one of the bars back rooms. No one noticed the four walk over to the room and close the heavy door.

Saphira:

Saphira paced through the hold, fuming in her true dragon form. Eragon had closed her out while interrogating one of the captured Orcs. She ruffled her wings impatiently as she continued to pace, her talons scraping against the rock beneath her. How could he just shut her out like that?! Why? The thought raked through her like steel. How could he just block her like he did, and not understand that she didn't want any more trouble then there already was?

But it was the unfathomable rage she felt in him that truly frightened her, making her realize that Eragon was different now. His anger was overwhelming, towering over everything she had ever felt in their connection. It truly frightened her, not for the sake that he would ever be angry with her in such a manner but to have that rage overpower even reason and true thought. The rage of losing control...

She stopped and ran to the mouth of the hold, looking for him. She dared not try to mindspeak with him again in fear that he might shut her out again, causing her to be even angrier then she was now. When she saw nothing her hearth thumped through her hard. Where could he be? How long did it take to interrogate an Orc...or...?

A shudder ran through her, making her tail whip to the side against the wall, a spider web of cracks spread in all direction where her tail hit. Or to kill an Orc? Could Eragon truly kill in anger and revenge? But the way he acted on the battlefield told her other wise. He could kill in anger, as he had on her back to keep the enemies from trying to use her against the Kings army. Anger bubbled up in her though, thinking about how he had shut her out. How dare he!

She flapped her wings, irritated and slapped her tail on the ground. The sound echoed in the hold, vibrating the stonewalls.

"Saphira?" Eragon's voice echoed through the hold. Her head whipped to the mouth of the hold and saw him standing there. She glared at him and sat erect in her true form, staring down at him.

(Here Eragon.) She knew she sounded cold and bitter, but she was.

He looked up to her and tried to smile. She could see it. but it failed after she didn't return the feeling of love he sent to her, she still changed form.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

She felt her jaw drop and scrapped at the stony floors with her talons. How could he ask such a question?! She returned to the form they were accustomed to and put her hands on her hips.

"What's wrong?! You shut me out while you were interrogating that's what is wrong! You closed yourself from me! How could you do that Eragon?!"

He gapped at her for a second before coming back to himself.

"That's what your so puffed up about? Because I didn't want you to hear what was being drawn from that Orc?" He spat the word Orc out at her like it was venom.

"And what did you find Eragon, that was so damn important?! How do you know something couldn't have happened to me or how would I have known something happened to you when you shut me out!?"

Her hands were shaking as she gripped her hips harder, trying to still them.

"It was fine. I found out where their army is striking next." His voice was distant from her almost unfeeling. She had never thought Eragon could act like this. Act so cold and indifferent from the loving, caring boy she had known before Brom's death.

"If all you were doing was trying to do was find out where they were going to camp, then why shut me out? I don't understand." She crossed her arms over her chest.

He looked at her with different eyes, older eyes, as if they didn't see her. His eyes seemed to look past her to some far off place. Eyes that had seen death and were haunted by its passing. She couldn't quite place it but something about him was different, and the though nagged at her.

"Everything is taken care of Saphira, don't worry about it," he said suddenly, breaking her thoughts

He walked past her to the table where she had luncheon set up for him when he got back. He hadn't tried to touch her nor to look at her as he brushed past her to the table. She squared her shoulders and gripped his shoulder and yanked him around. He looked at her with wide eyes.

"Not worry about it?! Damn it Eragon, use your head instead of your heart. This is a war, remember, and we fight together. Now what happened down there? I can smell Orc blood on you before you even came back here." It felt as though lead had settled into her belly when she saw his eyes darken at the mention of the Orc.

"I know! I can still smell the stink of his blood and his feel his slimy skin on my hands. I can still smell his rancid breath as it had! I can still-" he stopped and swallowed hard. Saphira looked at him and knew what had happened.

"You killed him in anger didn't you?" she said taking her hand off his shoulder.

"Yes." Was all he said. She looked at him again and saw that all that has happened since Brom's death had changed him drastically. He had tried to fight it for a while but this life had slowly worn him down. It would wear anyone down, I suppose. He was becoming cold and unfeeling and Saphira wondered if she would ever have her old luv back. A wave of protectiveness swamped her hard. She wanted to shield him under her wing and never leave the hold again. But she knew that this was the way of the Rider.

"Why?" she said softly.

"I can still hear his screams in my head, see him bleed...he was the one who shot the javelin into you. Someone on our side has been feeding them information. They knew all about you, and how to take you down."

Her heat thumped through her hard.

"A traitor?" she whispered almost to herself. Eragon's eyes were dark and foreboding to her, making her really see him now. Eragon was all man now, there was no boy left in him, really, making him seem much older then he truly was.

"Yes, a traitor. And so help me gods, I will find whoever so uttered the words of you to them and I will kill them." He said and Saphira knew he would do just that.

She stepped back from him and wrapped her tail around her legs, trying to figure out who it may have been to turn against them. Had they not proven themselves to all those in this keep that they were trust worthy and would fight until the battle was won? Who could be so cruel and heartless to turn against them, to have her lead to slaughter? The thought made her shiver, catching Eragon's eye.

"Are you cold?" his voice laced with utter concern now. She looked at him and was shocked to see the thoughts of the war and the Orc gone from his eyes. He could turn the other cheek so easily when it came to her, making her heart flip in her chest at that thought.

"A bit...I'm going down to the springs."

She turned and hurried down the hall to the spring, hoping that the steam would clear her of all this utter dread she felt in her belly. He watched her leave and felt sudden guilt wash over him. She was only trying to protect him.

Eragon:

I sighed and sat down at the lip of the hold, I gazed out over the city as I had done when I first came here. The holds position high up the mountain gave me a bird's eye view of the city as it clung to the base of the mountain. When I had first come here I had seen a beautiful white city with a deep forest a ways out. It seemed like there was nothing to do back then, everything was peaceful and calm. That was when Brom was still with us, still there to give guidance and to teach us about our powers. Brom was the closest thing to family I had after my parents were killed in a raid. He had known about Saphira, known what I was and what I could someday become. He was always there with the right word or encouragement.

Now I only did what I was told. Went where I was told, ate where I was told and would probably die where I was told. There was nothing Saphira or I could do. The king told me that he cared and I did try to believe him but in the end I knew that we were just another tool, another bureaucratic chip to be played when it suited the kingdom's best interest. The only happy memory in this part of my life was that first night I had been with Saphira. That one night shined out like a beacon in this dark gloom I was in. I thought of how much I loved her and, in turn, how much I knew she loved me.

Before I knew it I was half way down and heard Saphira splash into its blissful warmth.

I peeked down and saw that she was fully submersed in the hot water and hidden by the steam, making it much harder to sneak in like I had planned. But it was the sudden smell of Orc blood that brought me back to what happened outside the hold here. I had killed in the bitterness of hatred, making the bile rise in my throat once more. I already exposed my morning meal as I exited the dungeons, free of the horrendous small and the images of me crushing the Orc.

I stood there and let the steam cling to my body and to my clothes. Although the thoughts of Saphira in agony had filled my mind as I slowly killed the Orc, I couldn't help but feel this wasn't just about nearly loosing Saphira. It had been all my frustrations and all my negativity I've held to my heart since Brom left us and since Saphira and I shared that night together. I could still remember it, ever detail of their love making that night. It had been a wondrous thing, but worrying about keeping with Saphira was nearly the last thing on my mind now. Since the battle I had been consumed with the thoughts of war and of Saphira's safety. I almost made the mistake of telling her I didn't want her to fight any more. But I could never see Saphira sitting here at the hold, waiting for my return as many mortal women married and beloved of those soldiers.

(Your thinking too much again Eragon. You going to join me or keep scowling at the steam?)

Saphira's voice rang everything I had been thinking down and away. She is my muse, I thought privately as I began to disrobe. I looked up into the steam and to the spring and didn't see Saphira anywhere.

(Where are you?) I asked silently both aloud and mind.

(I should ask you that same question Eragon.) Her voice barely held the joy I had heard before the messenger came to tell me to see the Cardinal. Or course then I didn't smell like Orc blood, I thought.

(You seemed far away a minute ago...were you thinking of what has happened?)

The question hit me hard, as if it were a physical blow.

(What?)

(You have changed so much Eragon, in the time of Brom's death...) she didn't say any more, she didn't need to. We both knew what she was talking about. It's almost as if she was listening in on my thought when I was back in the hold. I knew that I couldn't hide it from her.

"Yes...I have thought of Brom a lot lately. How could I not when his teachings and his wise words are all around me every part of the day?" I whispered and sighed heavily. "I just don't know what to do anymore..." I said sinking in and speaking to the water, knowing Saphira could hear. "The wars, the death, all the demands. I just don't want to do it anymore," I added balling my hands into fists. "I feel like we have to though." I felt Saphira slowly float over and sit beside me.

(Why do we?) She asked. I considered her response for a minute. Why did we? The question hit me as I thought of an answer but none came. We were all that's left. There were no more riders to tell us that we had to stay and fight in this war. The world would right itself just like before...wouldn't it?

"I don't know. What else can we do? I'm a Rider, I always thought this was the way a Riders life was supposed to be like."

I knew my explanation sounded as though that's all I knew but I felt deep down this was all for something greater, something much bigger then we were.

I looked at Saphira and grinned slightly.

"What?" I smiled and wrapped my arms around her tightly. She smiled lightly and looked at me.

"Eragon...can't we just get away?" her face looked so innocent I couldn't help but laugh.

"You know as well as I do we can't. Outside these walls there's-"

She placed her warm fingers on my mouth, hushing me. Her fingers felt as though it was like running velvet over my mouth. Her beautiful blue eyes stared at me, capturing every thought. Her mouth curled into a smile as she leaned into me.

(Getting away from the city walls was not what I had in mind.) Her voice purred in my head. A thrill ran over my body, making the hot sultry spring water seem lukewarm. I smiled lightly and shook my head.

(What? You don't want to?) She asked lightly, getting out of the water and sauntered to where the towels were. I watched her hips swaying back and forth and knew she knew full well that I wanted to. Her hips swayed too and fro, her tail wrapping around her long, slender legs. She looked over her shoulder at me and smiled, making me chuckle.

"What?" she said innocently making me grin.

"Oh nothing." I said feeling my body already begin to tighten at the very thought of laying her down on the cushions. I went to the side and looked back to where she was standing and found that she was gone.

(Saphira?) I felt around for her but found nothing. I hurried out of the water and grabbed a towel on the way. I hurried up the stairs, but was mindful that my feet were still slippery from the water.

I got back up at the hold and found her there at the mouth of the cave, over looking at the city. The setting sun was playing across her skin in a golden, fiery light setting off her scales to glisten like blue diamonds. I wrapped my towel around myself tighter, trying to hide how my body was responding to the sight of her standing there.

Her wings were folded back this time, not folded around her in modesty as she had when she first changed in front of me. Her body was outlined in a golden hue, making it easier to see her body fully. I traced her from head to toe with my eyes, burning the way she looked into my memory.

She looked at me finally and smiled, her blue eyes on mine.

"Is everything alright Eragon? You seem...tense." I nearly laughed at the thought of just being 'tense'. She walked towards me and kept smiling, eying my towel. I nearly dropped it as she drew closer.

Saphira:

I looked at Eragon and smiled as I stood at the mouth of the hold, feeling the last of the suns rays warming my body. He looked as though he was lost for words with his towel in hand. I watched a droplet of water run down his chest and belly to be stopped at the towel wrapped around his hips. I could see how tense his body was and felt my smile grow even more. I resisted the urge to laugh but walked to him instead, making sure my hips swayed a little more then usual as I walked up to him and stopped short of touching him. I smiled brighter as I watched another droplet run from his wet hair down his neck, slowly. I leaned in and gently licked up, tasting the salt from his skin and the hot spring water. But what I noticed the most was the way he jerked slightly as my tongue touched his skin. I touched his shoulder lightly and smiled. His eyes seemed to glaze over as he looked at me, and then bit his lower lip.

"Now, that wasn't very fair." I chuckled slightly, hearing him say that through clenched teeth. I stepped back and walked over to the cushions. I felt his eyes on me as I sat down on them and crawled to the middle of them. When I looked back at him, I was surprised to see that the towel was gone. He stood there, towel in hand and walked towards me slowly. I gazed over him, seeing every part of him, ever muscle against his skin that was still slightly pinked from the spring.

He walked to me, his eyes roaming over my body. I smiled seductively to him and watched as he came up onto the pillows with me. I pushed him onto the pillows and straddled his hips before he could say anything. He laughed beneath me as I smiled brightly.

"Ready for a change of pace?" I asked him softly, drawing his attention even more. His eyes stared up into mine and I knew without him saying anything he was very interested in what I had planned. My smile remained as I leaned down and nibbled along his ear, making his flesh ripple with goose bumps. Carefully I moved my hips down to his and felt his sex against my thigh. Without having to stop teasing his neck and ears, I moved my hips over his sex, my delicate folds just moving over him. I kissed him deeply as I moved over him, over his sex, my delicate folds just moving over him. I kissed him deeply as I moved over him, over his sex. Then, without word...

Eragon:

The hold seemed steamy as we both lay there panting, all of our energy gone. My whole body was infused with inner warmth that came from a bond that Saphira and I shared. My chest heaved and sweat clung to my brow as I cradled Saphira's limp form. Her head rested on my chest, her soft scales rubbing against me with every movement and her breath hot against my skin. Her tail hung limply next to my leg, not even a twitch could be seen. Her wings were limp at her sides as well; sweat clinging to the delicate membrane. My whole body was a limp as hers as I tried to regain some amount of my strength. Just enough to move would be good enough. Soon I gave up this idea and began to fall into the warm, dark embrace of sleep. Even through the fog of near sleep I could register a small movement from Saphira. I opened my eyes halfheartedly to see Saphira's warm smile. I smiled back even through my mouth felt like cotton. She slowly slid to the right and rolled off me. I felt myself slip out of her as she moved. I gasped quickly at the sudden feeling but it passed and I slowly laid my head back. I felt Saphira move next to me and turned to find her standing

"I'm going down to the spring to wash up, you coming?"

"No...I'm going to sleep. Night," I said as I drew a blanket over myself and closed my eyes.

"Night," she answered and disappeared down the staircase.

I don't know how long I slept but when I opened my eyes the scones burned brightly on the walls and there was a chill in the air. My eyes soon adjusted to the flickering lights as I looked around for Saphira. I couldn't see her anywhere... I got up and walked down to the spring...nothing. I tried our link...nothing.

I panicked...

My mind instantly thought of the most rational of situation to try and calm me. She had gone for a flight. This thought did nothing to calm me as I reentered the hold. I grabbed for my clothes to go and look for here when I noticed a small envelope on top. I tore the seal off and read...

Dear Eragon,

I wish to speak with you. Come at once.

Ambrose

I clenched my fist as my whole body began to shake with rage. I looked down at the note as it burst into white flames.

I burst though Cardinal Ambrose's door and stormed up to his desk.

"Where is she!?" I shouted as I grabbed the front of his robes and hauled him over the desk.

"I don't have her! And put me down," he answered in a low tone. I grudgingly let him fall back into his seat. "Now, if you would act somewhat civil I can tell you what I know," he said smoothing out his robes.

"Don't test me," I warned.

"I have been granted a vision by the holy Saint Celestine and believe it may help us," he said smiling and steapling his fingers.

"Why should you help me?" I asked, my eyes narrowing dangerously. I would be ready for any trick that this charlatan had up his sleeves.

"I have to admit that my own protection is a concern that cannot be ignored and, quite frankly, you two fulfill the role of Guardians quite well," he answered his voice thick with triumph.

"Give me one reason I should believe a word you say," I added, as I leaned over the desk.

"What choice do you have?" he said, smiling. "And besides why would I want to see my protectors leave?" My gut was screaming that this was a trap but he was right, what choice did I have? I had to find Saphira and right now this bastard was my only hope.

"Alright, I'm listening," I said, sitting down in a high backed chair opposite him

My heart pounded in my chest is in time with the horse's strides as I flew towards the forest. The horse powerful muscles rippling under it's back as we cleared a fence in a single bound. The Cardinals instructions flashed in my mind as I passed the first grove of trees, obscuring the moonlight. I urged the horse faster as I though of my love. How could I have been so stupid to let her go off by herself? Because you didn't think this would happen, said my own voice in my head. I grudgingly admitted that it was right and pushed onwards. The forest passed in a blur of shadows as the moonlight struggled to penetrate the dense tree line. I paid the darkness little heed as my enhanced vision easily cut though the night.

The first marker, a giant moss covered boulder, came up quickly and I veered the horse off to the left and barreled down the trail. I tucked my head low as the mane flapped in the fierce wind, foretelling an onset of a storm. The second marker came into view even faster then the first. An old gnarled pine reached up to the sky where it's top half had been blown clear by a lighting strike. The final marker should be coming up soon I thought to myself, repeating the Cardinals instructions in my head.

Sure enough the third and final marker presented itself in the form of a clearing. I slowed the horse and dismounted, drawing DunnSilfren in a single gesture; the blade slid cleanly from the scabbard and glinted in the shards of light that managed to reach the forest floor. I could hear voices on the other side of the clearing and the glow of a fire permeated through the gloom. I stopped as I heard a woman's voice cry out, followed by cruel laughter. The Cardinal was right! They had her!

I crept to the edge of the clearing and crouched in the brush. There were about six orcs gathered around a campfire on the other side of the clearing, I could kill six orcs easily. I scanned the campsite until I found Saphira on the far side. Her wrists and ankles had been chained behind her to a tree and there were ropes pinning her wings to her body. I stalked out into the clearing and headed towards the camp, drawing the magick out as I did so. The two closest orcs heard me coming and stood,

"Well, 'ere he is, boyz," he said in a slurred, mocking tone as he grabbed a rusty sword. They were expecting me, well I was right, this was a trap. The Cardinal was sorely misguided if he though six orcs could overpower me. I kept my pace steady and raised my palm. The wind flared as two bolts flew from my hand and passed clean through the pair.

The four others looked at their dead comrades and jumped to their feet. I didn't give the rest a chance to recover. I grabbed my sword in two hands and rushed the campsite. The first orc's swing was aimed to take my head off but I ducked under it easily and slashed at his stomach. He doubled over and I stabbed him in the back. I yanked my sword free and let the orc fall to the dust. The others grabbed their weapons and rushed me. I spread my legs and ducked under a blow meant for my head, slashing back as the orcs momentum carried him past my blade and to the ground. I blocked another blow with my sword and pushed back, taking the orc off balance. I swiped at his feet as he teetered back. I cut the left calf to the bone and the orc fell to the ground. I stepped towards him and drove my blade through his chest.

I yanked it out and whirled around to face an orc with two short swords. He grinned evilly at me and rushed. I was able to block the first blow but the second bit into my side. I cried out as fire raced through my blood. I slashed back and caught the guard of one of the swords. He pushed me back and I fell into the trunk of a tree. The blow knocked the wind out of me momentarily and the world swam. My eyes refocused quickly enough to see a blade jab aimed at my heart. I shifted to the left, around the tree, hearing his blade thunk into the hard wood a second later. I continued my circle and came at the surprised orc from the other side. I stabbed at his side but was deflected to the left by his second short blade. I brought the sword in a reverse arc and smashed the pommel into his face. He teetered back, clutching his bloodied face. I then cleanly dissected him from groin to throat in one fluid motion.

I let my breath out and rose slowly. I sheathed DunnSilfren and leaned against the tree to catch my breath. I turned to my left and saw that Saphira was still safe. I jogged over to her and bent down on one knee and undid the gag,

"Eragon!" she breathed as I finished untying her and helped her stand.

"Saphira, are you alright?" I asked, hugging her tightly. Her breathing was heavy and erratic as she shivered in my arms. "What's wrong?" I asked as she went weak at the knees and had to lean on me for support "What did they do to you? What's going on?" I asked with more urgency. I tried our link but was met with a dense, foggy feeling. I started to panic, fearing the worst as I carried her back to the horse.

I had gone two steps when a noise attracted my attention. I turned to find Ambrose stepping out from behind a bush.

"Bravo Rider, Well done," he said with a sneer as he clapped his hands in mock approval. "You know what they say, if you want a job done right..." his voice trailed off as a huge orc stepped out from behind the same bush. His massive bulk dwarfed Ambrose as huge globs of saliva fell from his huge mouth that was twisted into some sort of deformed grin. Then, another orc stepped out and soon the whole side of the forest was covered in huge salivating beasts, each carrying an assortment of clubs, blades, and spears. Some of the larger ones were fitted with mismatching plate armor that was rusted and dented from use. I rested Saphira carefully against a tree. I didn't want to let her go but I thought it best that I have both hands free right now.

I thought as I grabbed the hilt of DunnSilfren.

"Now. Now, that wouldn't be wise," Ambrose said, waving his finger at me.

"When the king finds out about this-" I started.

"Ha, that old fool?" he asked laughing as the orcs began to encircle me. "He's gone to hell knows where. There's nobody here to save you, Rider," he said with a sinister grin.

"Why? What's going on?" I asked, eying the circle.

"You needen't concern yourself with that,"' he answered cryptically. I clicked my sword loose and drew it in one motion and risked a glance at Saphira. I saw that several orcs had broken off from the main circle and were moving towards her.

"Saphira! Watch out!" I yelled. I heard the Cardinal laugh and spun to face him.

"She's not going to be doing anything for a while." He answered my unspoken question. Saphira was just sitting there, not doing anything. She looked like she was asleep.

"What did you do to her?" I asked dangerously.

"Oh, she was neatly drugged. A little dart in her neck and she has no control over her powers, a handy little tool, Drakeweed is. He mused. "Now you are truly alone, Eragon. Take her," he motioned to the small group.

"Don't you dare touch her!" I yelled as my anger flared. I drew on the magic once again. To my surprise nothing happened. I tried again but still nothing. I felt an impenetrable wall between me and the power I needed.

"Confused, Rider?" Ambrose asked casually. "It's really quite simple. Look down." I looked and saw the necklace that the 'king' had given me. It was glowing with a sickly, red color. I reached up to break it off but the second I touched it electric fire shot through my body. I screamed as it forced me to my knees. Then, as suddenly as it had began, it stopped.

"Another very useful little item," he said, walking towards me. I glanced at Saphira again, "Oh don't worry about your love," he spat as he stopped in front of me. "She will be serving a new master now," he said in a low voice.

"Who the fuck are you? You're no holy man"' I said hoarsely. His expression changed, as if he was deciding whether or not to answer me.

"Have you ever heard of the BlueCrest Tower?" He asked, folding his hands behind his back.

"No," I answered, confused. He looked at me with a reproachful stare.

"I'm surprised," he started. "All of the previous Riders had to undergo training at the tower to learn control of their powers, but you seen to have controlled them another way...interesting." he suddenly snapped out of his pondering and pointed to the necklace. "That came from the Tower. It has a very powerful curse placed upon it." I gazed down at the necklace.

"Why are you doing this?" I asked, slowly getting to my feet. He laughed,

"It's very simple, Rider. You were the last thing in my way. You were the last wall I had to destroy. The orc told you there was a traitor, right?" I flashed back to the dungeon. Right before I entered I saw Ambrose standing next to the prisoner. Ambrose watched the realization dawn on my face and smiled,

"Traitor," I hissed. Remembering what the orc had said.

"You figured out my secret, very good, Eragon." He answered flatly.

"You'll pay for your treason, Ambrose," I vowed as the battlefield flashed back into my mind.

"I knew there was some way to get to you, Eragon and I found it. You do have a weakness, Eragon. The other Riders had none. Do you know what it is?" he asked casually. I just glared at him, my lips thin in anger. "You were to blind to see it, too caught up in emotion to realize what was happening right in front of you," he spat. "Don't think I don't know what despicable things you and that beast have done. Your most powerful ally was you biggest downfall."

"Saphira is my greatest strength, Ambrose." I feebly tried to defend myself even though he was validating the fear I had from the start.

"A lot of good it did you," he snorted and

"I may not have my magick but I can still kill you with steel." I started walking towards him. My grip tightened, as I stood right next to Ambrose. I raised my blade to strike him down but the blow never landed. Ambrose said a word of Power and the necklace flared. I screamed as I dropped my sword.

"Fool," he said in repulsion. I turned my head and watched him board the wagon that had Saphira in the back. I could just make out two orcs standing in the back, one of them flashed me an evil grin and disappeared behind a flap. I used my last bit of strength to look up at what I thought was the orc leader,

"Kill me," I pleaded as my voice cracked. The orc just looked down and laughed. He grabbed me by the folds of my shirt and hauled me to my feet. I nearly fell back but caught myself. I was back on the ground quicker then I though as his huge fist plowed into my stomach. I felt several ribs crack as I doubled over and fell to my knees. I just stayed there quivering in the biting wind that chilled me to the bone. A kick soon followed that snapped my head back and sent me sprawling on the ground. I felt warm blood run from my mouth and begin to soak the grass. It hurt to breath, much less move. I closed my eyes and waited, all the warmth had gone out of my body. I was already dead, I was just breathing in and out.

Suddenly my hearing picked up a strange, high-pitched whistling coming from behind me. I quickly looked up to see an arrow bury itself into the neck of one of the orcs, dropping him in an instant. The first one was soon followed by several more. I watched, stunned, as three more orcs slumped to the ground. The rest of the party dropped to the ground or rolled behind boulders, trying desperately to get away from the hail of arrows that were now dropping like rain. I dropped to the ground and rolled, painfully, behind a fallen tree trunk.

I risked a glance towards the tree line but couldn't see where, or who the arrows were coming from due to the darkness. I teeth rattling screech split the darkness and the ground shook with the impact of something huge. I couldn't see what it was and was forced down by another arrow that hit the tree right near my head. What the hell was going on? I asked myself, barely able to hear my own thoughts over the noise. By now orcs were shouting orders or running away in blind terror.

I saw a dark shape dart towards the tree that I was hiding behind. I quickly ducked out of sight, not sure whether these mysterious attackers were friend or foe. I felt an arm close around my neck and drag me away from the tree. My air was suddenly cut off as I thrashed against the strong hold.

"Hold still, Eragon we-" I didn't let whoever this was finish, the idea of escape and in turn revenge had given me renewed strength. I had drawn a small dagger out of my boot and slashed his hand. My assailant screamed and let me go. I rolled over to face the dark shadow, dagger drawn waiting for its next move.

The sudden drop in the action gave me a brief second to think. How did he know my name? Who were these people?

"I didn't want to have to do this," my attacker said in a deep, strained voice. His hand flared and my world went black.

The End...?

Translation of spell:

(X3)

I invoke the shield

May you rise and be healed.

May you invoke the gates of death.

And be shielded from harm

I follow, hold the gate!

Well...there is the second installment of the Soulfire series. My partner and I hope you enjoyed and you never know...we may have a third one in mind for all. Let us know what you thought! We enjoy all of your input and thoughts! ^.^

As RavenCraft already said, that was the second one.

Long, wasn't it? We know there are a few errors here and there but we tried to keep them down in this one.

Believe us we did not mean for it to be that long. We thank you for reading it and staying with us throughout the long wait.