The Riders' Legacy [ Ariamella & Greeneyed23 ]

It was sometime early morning when an elf had woken Amarose out of her comfortable slumber, bringing a message that she should visit the Hall of the Elders. Immediately. Since the fall of Galbatorix, the Eragon had established a new age of Riders, consisting of elves, humans, dwarves, and urgals alike. Between the eggs that Vrael and Oromis had saved, plus the eggs that Saphira and others had sired, Amarose had been one of the few humans within the century to receive the honor of becoming a Rider. Her dragon, named Veravada, hatched to be a deep, rich violet female. Though the dragon lacked the bulkiness and sheer muscle mass of most other dragons, she made up for it by being excellent in the art of flying.

Amarose spent only a few minutes making herself presentable before heading down to the the Hall of Elders, looking at the still dark sky in minor annoyance. But however annoyed she was, she knew Eragon's reasoning for summoning her. It wasn't the first time he would be giving her a lecture on her behavior. She pondered what it would be about; her fight with the Urgal girl, the trick she played on one of the new apprentices, or the mistake she made during one of her uses of the ancient language that caused a man's tongue to be permanently attached to the roof of his mouth. She wasn't the least bit sorry for the last one, seeing as he was insulting Veravada. The girl's dragon followed along behind her, sending images of the Council threatening to take away their Rider status.

"Impossible, Vera," Amarose answered out loud. "I may not be as refined as the lot of them, but I am no Galabatorix. And they know that no matter what, I am still, ultimately, allied with the Riders in all that they do. We just...we just like having our bit of fun." She grinned and opened the door to Eragon's hall, awestruck by the size and ornate decor. This was the first time she was summoned by all the Elders. Usually, Eragon pulled her aside and talked to her privately. "Eragon-elda," she said, bowing her head in respect. "You wanted to see me?"

"Yes, yes, child..." Whatever he said after that moment seemed to trail off in Amarose's mind. She was looking at him, nodding in agreement, though her mind was elsewhere. In her mind, she exchanged various commentary with Veravada on the age of some of the Elders. Some were elvish, others human, one was Urgal and the other a dwarf. They all had to be close to a century old, and Eragon and Saphira were probably older still.

"...Amarose, do you not understand the gravity of your actions? Amarose? Amarose." Eragon frowned. "Listen, child."

The young woman, only 19 years of age, peeked out from under her honey-brown locks of hair, not in shyness but in another, less indentifiable way. "Yes, ebrithil, I understand. I am sorry. It will not happen again." Her blue eyes, so light in pigment that the color of her irises neared purple, connected with Eragon's own brown eyes and she grinned sheepishly, looking away. She knew not what she was apologizing for, and she was sure Eragon knew just the same. Her 5'6" stature seemed to shrink in on itself under the scrutiny of the council, and she sensed Veravada experiencing the same sensation.

"Look at her, she doesn't listen and shows no remorse! Another Galbatroix, that one!" screeched one of the Elders, the Urgal male.

No, that is not the case. I can sense it in her dragon, Saphira interjected, peering into Veravada's eyes and blowing a small puff of smoke into the air. They are a worthy pair but they have little regard for our common moral expectations. They seem to need a more substantial action in their lessons.

"Yes," Eragon continued, "and for this reason, Saphira and I have decided that starting today, you are to travel to Alagaesia. Learn all that you can about the Riders and their history. Talk to the elves. The dwarves. They will tell you things that are not written in any of these scrolls and books here. And to make sure you don't run off and get into any sort of irreparable trouble, I have called a trustworthy individual to accompan you. He should be here now, actually." Eragon gestured to the door, and Amarose turned to see who would accompany her on this journey.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

A massive black dragon named Jurizan, that reminded Saphira and her kin of the lost brother Shruikan, lay in the door way sleeping, or at least seeming to sleep. On his head lay Fela Turin. The legendary Black Elf. The duo had been the first of the new riders. the very first. When Eragon's dear friend Arya, Queen of the Elves and Rider in her own right, had been unable to leave her people she had sent a number of elves to touch the eggs and see if one of her people could join the new order. Fela Turin had been around the elves since the first war with the dragons. He even still had his own brightsteel sword jet black like his skin and hair, named Hethdar. It's name meant joining of the way. And so it was. The sword was unmarkable like the others like it, but this one was different for one single reason. It had been forged by Fela himself when the art was not yet focused only in the Mastery of Rhunon

It had been Jurizen who had selected the ancient elf who had actually been there only to escort his brethren never dreaming that he, the outcast Elf, would ever be chosen. Being such an ancient elf with total mastery of himself and the ancient language his becoming a Rider was a mighty coup for the still birthing order. Eragon had relied heavily on the pair for many years as Jurizen had always been large for his age. It was they who had found the deposits of brightsteel that had given the Riders access to the marvelous blades that could not be broken or destroyed in addition to the many Eragon and Saphira had rescued from Galbatorix. It was also they that had manged to bring Murtagh and thorn to the Rider's new home for a number of years of training and aid to the still tormented pair as well as to share and learn from them. Fela and Jurizen had also convinced Rhunon to share her knowledge of sword making entirely with Fela who had in turn shared it with others who relished smiting and had, with Eragon's blessing, reestablished the Rider's private armory of weapons and armor of every sort, especially for the dragons.

When the order had grown strong enough and ad Rider with enough age and experience Fela had resigned his seat on the Council. Not for any anger or slights but simply because as the outcast Elf he, like he had before, chose to be alone rather than to be with others. he and Jurizen had explored much of the world. They were even sure they had visited the land that had the humans had originally come from. They were often in the company of the elder Eldunari as they so enjoyed speaking with an elf who remembered them in their true forms and using the [might wings of their young hatchling. Glaedr and Umaroth, the Eldunari of the eldest dragons still existing were often to be found with the duo as both dragons and their Riders had been good friends of Fela Turin. In fact even now the two Eldunari were stowed away in the black dragon's saddle bags.

Hearing that he was being spoken of Fela leaped to his feet and bowed to Eragon and the other Elders and their dragons. "Atra esterní ono thelduin. Mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr. Un du evarínya ono varda. Forgive me brothers and sisters. Jurizen and I were up late speaking with our good leader. I trust I have not been rude celobra Eragon Shur'tugal? Or to you Saphira Bjartskular?"

Ergaon smiled and shook his head and he and Saphira spoke through his mouth. "Atra esterní ono thelduin, Fela Shur'tugal. No Fela Elda. Nor you Juirzen. You are ready for this task?"

Fela smiled. "Eka eddyr aí Shur'tugal... Shur'tugal... Argetlam. Of course. But this is not a task. This is a pleasure. I have not been to Alagaesia in some time. I am also allowed to take a new friend with me? you know how i enjoy that." He turned to Amarose. "Atra esterní ono thelduin, Amarose Shur'tugal un Veravada Bjartskular. Atra nosu waíse fricaya. (May we be freinds)." He turned to Jurizen who nodded to them both but did not speak. he was a very quiet fellow much like his Rider. This was the most any but Eragon had heard the elf speak in centuries.

Saphira rose and shook herself as she looked at the blank dragon who winked at her but did not speak. She laughed and spoke only to Eragon for a moment then turned back to Veravada and Amarose. "Hatchlings you will accompany Fela Elda and Jurizen Bjartskular. You are not being punished. You are being a given a chance to learn the true meaning of being a Rider. As Fela Elda shall teach you there is a place for frivolity and play but your first focus must be on your studies and preparation as a Rider. Ours is an even greater task now than it was in the ancient days. Our order is strong now. Especially because of young Riders like yourself and the influence of the other races of the world." She and Eragon nodded to the others cutting off another outburst from the more austere members of the council. Fela was smiling as the pair were speaking together their voices merging and alternating words perfectly not even aware they were doing it. While it could be confusing and very annoying at times, it also spoke of the deep connection between the two.

"We wish you to give aid to the races of Alagaësia. Fela and Jurizen are not your judges or your Masters. They are merely your teachers and your counselors. They have their own tasks and plans, If you can assist them please do. As they shall you if you ahve need. Glaedr and Umaroth Elda have also agreed to join you and to give of their wisdom if they may. Listen to them as you would your masters here. they have traveled far and have taught many more than you. We shall expect you to return on this date two years from now. We hope you will have learned and seen much in that time. Explore. Enjoy yourselves." She laughed and Eragon chuckled. "But please try not to overdo the enjoyment. We do have to address the tongue sticking. We were able to undo the deed but not without difficulty. Before you leave you will present your apologies to the man. We understand why you felt it necessary but such use of the ancient tongue is irresponsible and beneath you. There are much better ways to handle such things. Have you any questions?"

Fela, Jurizen and the Council all looked at the pair waiting patiently.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

The first thing Amarose and Veravada noticed was the massive dragon that walked through the entryway, rivaling Thorn in size. That in itself was quite a feat seeing as the female pair had only seen Thorn once, and he was by far the largest dragon they had ever met. Looking down to the face of an elf she had never met before, she saw him speak to Eragon as if they were old friends, something she had not seen since Arya had last visited. He introduced himself as Fela. It was peculiar how she couldn't recall ever seeing him...though it was probably to be expected, of course. He looked to be older and more powerful than Arya, though she couldn't quite analyze his age due to his nature of being an elf. Even as the elves aged, they maintained a youthful, healthy look about them, and because they had the innate ability to wield the Ancient Language, therefore having magic within the palm of their hands, they were able to change appearances much like Blodhgarm, the elf who resembled a wolf. Even then, Amarose envied the lithe, cat-like qualities that were bestowed by some creator upon the elves.

Amarose stood silent when Fela addressed her, still in minor shock over hearing that she would have to leave this place, the home of the Riders. Amarose Elenval, that is no way to greet a teacher and companion, Veravada said quietly, prodding the girl with her snout.

"Kvetha ebrithil un fricai," Amarose replied to Fela, bowing her head. Upon straightening up, she recited the traditional elven greeting back to him, offering a small, polite smile.

See, Vera, I am not without manners. But I haven't heard a greeting from you to his dragon yet. If I may so myself, that is quite rude.

Veravada let out a small snort akin to laughter. That is because he hasn't addressed me yet, and I have already returned my greetings to the elf. The dragon turned away, and Amarose could feel amusement with a hint of smugness radiating off her companion.

For the rest of the time, she felt compelled to listen to Eragon and Saphira as they further explained their reasoning for choosing this path for them. On one hand, this was an opportunity that she never would've taken on her own had she had the chance. She was the type to settle in one place, only going where she needed. Exploration of other areas was fun, but familiarity of her surroundings was comforting. On the other hand, Amarose still saw this as punishment, and while it was mild at best, it was still a form of punishment. "I have no further questions, Eragon-elda...Saphira Bjartskular," she said once the closely-bonded pair finished the explanation, including the part about her misuse of the Ancient Language. She cringed. "While I don't doubt that you understand, it was a trying and difficult moment for me. Please, excuse my weakness. I shall apologize to him first, then gather my things to depart by mid-morning. Atra du evarinya ono varda, ebrithil." Amarose turned and walked away with her dragon following closely behind, pausing by Fela to see what his own actions were. Was he to follow her or go on his own way until mid-morning? Either way, the young woman could only imagine what he thought of her. Him, an accomplished elf with years of wisdom, compared to a youngling who had just exited her initial Rider apprenticeship after a period of seven years. And on top of that, he might witness an apology for a mistake that was only partially intentional.

She walked from the council's hall to the guest living quarters, where the man whom she had done wrong was staying. He was an ambassador from what was previously Uru'baen. Now, it was a flourishing city that, ironically (considering its history), had offered many individuals up for the ranks of the Riders. He had come to say that the dragon egg did not hatch for any child this year, and so he had taken it to the elves. Just yesterday, Amarose had decided to engage in a conversation with him when he stated that violet dragons were unattractive. It made her blood boil; how could one not love the richness that gleamed like amethyst?! And so she had done the deed, meaning to make him unable to speak ill of anything else. However, when the magic left her control, she found that he was rendered incapable of speaking anything at all! It was tragic and entertaining all at once.

"Hello, Relonryn," she started, completely aware that he was shooting her a look of dislike. "No, I'm not here to repeat my actions from yesterday. I'm here to apologize. I realize now that I shouldn't have attempted to bind you with magic, especially over such a small variation in opinion. Even though your opinion was wrong." She grumbled the last sentence under her breath and plastered an amicable smile upon her face. She truly was sorry though, and nothing she told him had been a lie. After some more idle small talk, she left for her own room and came across Fela and Jurizen almost immediately after leaving the guest quarters.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela and jurizen were sleeping, or at least resting, in the sun in the courtyard. Fela was laying on the bulge of Jurizen's right wing his eyes closed while Jurizen lay splayed out soaking up at the sun. As the younger pair came out the dragon spoke in an oddly smooth but also very deep voice. It was very attractive to Veravada as it was filled with his power. his voice was so rich and powerful ti made the grass around him and Fela stir and grow quicker. "Hello hatchlings. You have done well." Just those few words threatened to do great damage to the city around them and the three beings nearby. Fela sighed and rubbed his partner's belly. "Take it easy my heart."

He looked up at Amarose and Veravada and smiled. "Jurizen rarely speaks because he, like myself, was raised on the Ancient language. But for some reason even my fellow elves nor the Eldunari cannot understand his normal voice is filled with the magic and power of the Ancient tongue. Because this it is not safe for him to speak except through me in most cases. That is why he failed to greet you personally Veravada. He does apologize."

Jurizen nodded. Fela sighed stretching and laying back again revealing the two massive Eldunari of Umaroth and Glaedr. They were both still glowing but were also fairly dull. "they are resting. They enjoy the sun as well." A low hum was coming from them both indicating something like sleep breathing.

"Would you like to rest here with us for a time before you went to pack? We have some time. And the sun is quite enjoyable."

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Jurizen's voice was, without a doubt, one of the most powerful forces the female Rider pair had ever heard. For Amarose, it instilled a sense of respect and horror, as she could only imagine what the massive dragon was capable of if he ever decided to raise that voice of his. Mountains would fall and he would give rise to new seas, probably.

I'd imgagine he would make many females' scales shiver...and not from the cold, mused Veravada, who obviously had a different view of Jurizen than that of Amarose. The human girl rolled her eyes in response, struggling to shut out the hum of pleasure coming from her dragon. It wasn't uncommon for Veravada to become smitten by some male, but the thing was, Jurizan was not some male. He was entirely something else; as was his Rider.

"Well...I suppose I could rest for a while. I mean, I don't have that many things to pack. Just some extra clothes and provisions for the flight to Alagaesia. I'm sure I can purchase other things while we travel." Even before Amarose made a move toward the male pair, Veravada plopped herself down next to Jurizen, maintaining a close distance to him without actually invading his sense of personal space.

Amarose laughed, throwing her head back in amusement as she sunk next to her dragon. "Jurizen has no reason to apologize. Vera, on the other hand, has plenty reason to apologize. She doesn't always act this way, I assure you." She took a look at the Eldunari, her fascination growing with each passing moment. "How did you come across the Eldunari? That is to say...Eragon-elda always stated that only the Rider Elders have had a chance to be within the company of the precious heart of hearts. Yet, I have never seen you before in all my tutelage here."

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela waved his hand. "It is nothing. As to Umaroth and Glaedr they first of all old friends of mine. I had long friendships with them and their riders, especially the Morning Sage. An elf of great brilliance. i miss him dearly. Vrael as well. I was on the practice fields when Eragon began his true training. Not that his father Brom had neglected in his training in anyway but he was limited in what he could teach in the time he had...it is still a marvel that Eragon survived without his father...Brom was gifted a Rider and teacher but to teach a novice so well while traveling hundreds of miles...truly amazing....You will be able to see his grave when we travel to Alagaesia..."

He fell silent still not shifting at all until a young novice came up. "Fela Elda?" Fela opened an eye and smiled. "Ahhhh Wotan!" He jumped to his feet landing off Jurizen's wing and clasped hands with the young man who grinned blushing brightly. "How are your studies?" Wotan smiled even more. "Eragon Elda says i show great promise...." Seeing the Eldunari behind the elf he bowed. "And masters Umaroth and Glaedr say i have a gift for languages and diplomacy." Fela nodded proudly. "And your dragon?" Wotan turned as a powerful but rather small golden dragon came to a landing bowing to everyone present. "Kleister at your service Masters Glaedr and Umaroth, Fela Elda, Jerizen Elda, Amarose Elda, Veravada Elda." Fela grinned. "May I approach and touch you Kleister?" The dragon looked at her rider but then nodded. Fela moved forward and gently touched Kleister on the brow closing his eyes. "Ahhh your dame is Saphira. Has your mother been teaching you her mastery of flight?" Kleister dipped her head actually embarrassed. "yes Elda... she also says i will grow." Fela laughed. "You need not fear your size Kleister Bjartskulr. You can bear your Rider and you can breath your flames. That is what truly matters. And recall that the dwarfs are seen as small but are amongst the most fearsome warriors known to us.... You should seek instruction with Master Glumfel and her dragon Usteroth. they can teach you much about overcoming limitations and turning them to strengths."

Kleister nodded and then seeing Jurizen looking at her walked to the larger dragon dipping her head again. "Father... i hope i have pleased you?" Jurizen looked at Fela who closed his eyes then opened them again revealing solid black eyes just like Jurizen's. Fela's voice was naturally rich and deep but now was the rumble of an approaching storm. "My daughter you have done naught but please me. You are a mighty dragon and you take good care of your Rider. You make me proud to be your sire and I should not be surprised if you and Wotan prove to be the most successful peacemakers and keepers of our age. You must only focus on staying true and right my daughter. Nothing else." He touched noses with her and the moment made her literally glow with pride, Wotan as well. Wotan then jumped and Kleister looked at him. "Forgive us Eldas but we have been summoned by the council. May your days be long and happy." Wotan scrambled onto Fleister's back and they flew off.

Fela sighed and looked at Amarose. "I think it is time to go pack my dear. With no lessons to give or attend we will soon be in the way. And now would be the best time to leave. make sur eyou have your weapons and armor. Veravada can you carry your armor as well as everything your Rider will need?"

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

During Fela's exchange with one of the novice's, Amarose listened and observed, watching the elf give encouragement to the youngling. She was happy for Wotan and the golden dragon. They were so carefree and were immersed deeply into their studies, finding happiness and motivation through the way Fela and Jurizen praised them. Once upon a time, Amarose had been that way. The duties of being a Rider were so very important that she dedicated most of her time to becoming one with Veravada, a crucial part in the Rider bond. Over time, though, the books became less interesting, and the lessons more mundane rather than special. It was, in essence, a lack of motivation for learning that caused her to engage in activities that she and Veravada found more interesting.

Yes, Fela, Veravada replied, I can easily carry my own armor as well as whatever provisions and weapons Amarose may need. We may have to make more stops than what you are used to. I haven't ever traveled a distance this far.

Amarose nodded in agreement, adding, "We will return in an hour's time."

And with that, the female pair left for their quarters in preparation for the flight to Alagaesia. The trip itself was two day's ride by dragon, and there was a convenient island in between the two continents that the Riders used as an outpost and rest stop.

Amarose packed her weaponry: large, twin daggers made of brightsteel and a pack of throwing knives for some longer range. The daggers allowed her to be more fluid in her fighting, as compared to a sword that usually weighed her down. She wasn't the first to request a brightsteel weapon that wasn't a sword. In fact, the Riders of old did it as well, asking for maces, lances, and arrowheads made of the precious metal. The knives were there just because she never liked the bows, preffering things she could throw that had just as deadly aim as an arrow. Imbued with magic, the knives often worked wonders without the bulkines of carrying the bow.

After that, the girl packed the armor in a large leather casing and strapped it to Veravada's back, along with other leather casings that held clothing, blankets, and food (mostly nuts and dried fruit). Amarose had never been one to strictly follow the Elven way of diet, but it was slowly growing on her. Within the hour, she had finished packing her things and went down to the courtyard to wait for Fela and Jurizen.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela and Jurizen Swooped low. "Whatcha waiting for let's go!!" They then rose up. Fela was walking along Jurizen's spine waving goodbye to Eragon and Saphira who were on the upper pad of the Council Chamber watching the four depart. Fela stood on the tip of Jurizen's tail with complete confidence and bowed to the Rider and Dragon. "You have my regards and love old friends. May we see you again soon!" he then ran back up to the saddle leaping into it as Jurizen increased speed. As eh neared the edge of the city he spoke directly to Saphira. "Goodbye Saphira Bjartskulr!"

Eragon smiled as she roared her reply making the city shake. She was a much different dragon that she had been when she had first come here. She was at least ten times the size she had been and could now breath fire for a full hour and change if she needed to. She had born more than twenty eggs all of them having hatched seventeen to Riders three as wild Dragons,a ll three of which were often to be found around the city. In fact the three unleashed their own flames toward Jurizen and Fela as they passed overhead.

Saphira and Eragon then turned to Amarose and Veravada. "Well hatchlings it is time for you to go. Take care of each other and listen to those who offer advice. Especially Droting Arya and her dragon Feirnen, Angela the herbalist who has asked to see you and any and all werecats. Ask Fela Turin and Jurizen for aid and advice anytime you have even the smallest question. Atra esterní ono thelduin. Mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr. Un du evarínya ono varda." Both of them bowed to the young dragon and her Rider then stood waiting for them to go as the rest of the city looke don.

Suddenly a strange noise began. it was the man who Amarose had apologized to. he was clapping. Soon the council members were as well, even the Urgals. Soon the city was roaring their names, wishing them well and safe travels. Eragon smiled brightly. "Atra esterní ono thelduin, Amarose Shur'tugal." Saphira opened her jaws and unleashed a bright jet of blue flames. "Farewell Veravada Bjartskulr. May the wind be ever at your back.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Amarose grinned amidst the forming crowd, mounting the violet dragon before her. Strange, how just a moment ago she had the impression that Eragon sent her off on this journey as punishment but the more she thought about it, the more she realized that it was for her own personal growth. Maybe she was just that kind of person who had to actually experience life in order to learn its secrets.

After another glance at Eragon and Saphira, saying the parting words back to them, Veravada crouched low, put weight on her hind legs, and with a mighty push they launched into the air. Yes! It had been a while since they both flew, and the feeling made Amarose all giddy inside. Or was that Vera's feelings translating through their mental link? Whichever it was, it was an enjoyable feeling. Moving to a comfortable spot just at the dip between her dragon's neck and back, Amarose prepared herself for the flight ahead. Vera easily caught up with Jurizen, even going so far as to fly underneath, above and around him, making loops and rolls as she did so.

"I think Vera is in a playful mood indeed," the girl said to Fela, using the mental way of speaking rather than her own voice. The rush of the wind coupled with the heavy beats of the two dragons' wings made speaking out loud near impossible. "I have so many questions...where should I start? Are we going to stop tonight at the post? I'm sure Jurizen could make the trip all the way through, and I'd like to push Vera to do the same, but I just don't know.... Exactly where in Alagaesia will we arrive? The eastern shore, I assume?"

Amarose fell silent for a while as Veravada rose higher up in altitude, flying high above the clouds. Then, another thought transferred from her mind to Fela Turin's, though this one was much calmer in nature. "I never thanked you before we left. If anyone were to accompany me, I'm glad it's you...although, I have not the slightest inkling on why you would agree on taking a reckless, young Rider through Alagaesia." Laughter ascaped her lips, this time out loud. "But nonetheless...elrun ono." Thank you. She had used the ancient language to express her sincere gratitude. "And besides, there are plenty worse 'punishments' than this. With the way some of my friends describe their consequences, this sounds more like a pleasant vacation."

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela smiled. "We are actually going to fly more south. We are going to visit the dwarves in the Beor Mountains. They have many outposts, and their newest and brightest is on the coast. that is our destination. So no we will not land on the post you had in mind but in another much further south. Fortunately we have a good tail wind that direction. there we will rest and I will make sure you have everything you will need again then we will fly on nonstop to our destination."

He flew on silently for sometime then spoke to her mind making sure Veravada could hear everything as before. "i agreed to accompany you because I wish to rejoin my brothers and sisters amongst the riders more fully. I have always been a loner though less so now I have Jurizen. However we have also been busy with our various missions. because of Jurizens rapid growth rate and my own experiences we were often the team sent to handle more...sensitive missions such a collecting Murtagh and aiding Arya Droting to come and visit. Jurizen and Feirnen had a rather comical tussle over Saphira at that time. Arya Droting and Eragon however had a much more relaxing time. We are to visit her especially. That is another reason I am coming along. To protect you from my fellow elves and the other more powerful magical being in Alagaesia."

"For the most part though I have come because it has been one hundred and seventeen years since I was last home. Jurizen also wishes to see Ellesmera again. There will be much to see, more to do, and infinitely more for all six of us to learn. "

Umaroth spoke up now. "Yes hatchlings even Fela Glaedr and i are students. Alagaesia has changed greatly since we departed more than two centuries ago. In that time the dragons have returned to the land both wild and the riders who command our outposts there. Thje elves have grown and now fill all of Duweldenvarden as well as many cities along it's edge. The dwarfs have swelled as well and have built new cities throughout their beloved Beors and the ares at their bases. Humans and Urgals have formed a powerful Alliance and have explored far to the North which Murtagh and Thorn have done much to cleanse and still remain there in their castle a our northern arm. Thorn is truly a mighty dragon now. you will learn much from them both. "

Glaedr growled but nodded. "Indeed. it is indeed remarkable to me that now Murtagh has been surpassed by his half brother Eragon but no longer cares. Eragon has even learned to best him at the sword....it will be good to see the hatchlings again. I would speak to Thorn. He has a fine heart. much like you Veravada." he would say no more nor would Fela, and Jurizen of course did not speak, but Umaroth did. "Tell me Amarose Shur'tugal. Just what do you expect to find in Alagaesia?"

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

"I don't—I don't exactly know," Amarose shakily replied, unsure of what to say. "I grew up there, in a small town close to the Hadarac desert. I never saw much of the land and when Vera hatched for me, I was taken to the Riders to train." The girl quieted for a moment, pondering what she wanted to say next. "I suppose...I suppose I expect many things. I have never seen Elves, Dwarves, and Urgal outside of the ranks of Riders. I expect a great country that has since risen up from the reign of Galbatorix. I expect I should learn what peace is from the elves, what merriment is from the dwarves, and what honor is from the Urgals."

A confused look flitted across her face before it went away just as quick as it had come. "At least that's what I'm able to deduce from the books I read...I'd also like to visit my parents as I haven't seen them in quite some time...And my childhood friend Daemon woul laugh at me for becoming such a woman...It's been nearly 10 years since I last saw him..." At this point, Amarose had been rambling more to herself than any of the other five beings around her. A smile upturned her lips as she thought about finally coming home, though the feeling also gave her a nervous uneasyness that she couldn't keep down.

Amarose laid her head down to rest against Veravada's sturdy body, drifting away slowly to the beat of her dragon's wings. Distantly she could hear Umaroth and Glaedr speaking with Veravada, though she knew not what they were discussing as she was too tired to focus on Vera's thoughts. She soon drifted off to sleep and didn't wake until it was nearly evening.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

In addition to the two ancient Eldunari, Jurizen spoke through the two who could accept his thoughts without any worry of damage, like Fela who listened to the conversation and gave his opinion or statements when he felt it necessary but rarely. The dragons were instructing Veravada on flight, fire breathing, scale and talon care and all the basics making sure she had a good grounding and also giving her a number of advanced techniques and lessons. They also gave her a number on fighting with Amarose and how to make their union as Rider and dragon increase until the two not as a single being but something more. A joined mature Rider and Dragon is a force that even a Shade cannot best and as they spoke they taught Veravada and through her and Amarose's dreams her Rider, techniques and movements how together they could destroy any foe even a number of powerful magicians attacking at once.

The biggest key to this was the Elven method of mental emptiness. The Elves had mastered the method to make their mental walls truly impenetrable and after the ascension of Galbatorix, the Shade Durza, and a flurry of other powerful foes to the Riders and free nations of Alagaesia the Elves had gone back to work on the matter. Before they had thought of only one thing and their mental barriers had been strong but still breakable. Emptiness however was an entirely different matter. It turned the person into a living mirror. With nothing in their mind but their opponents mind the emptied mind had simply to maintain their calm and watch as their attacker literally destroyed themselves as they very rarely recognized their own minds. The elves had mastered and even excelled at this technique to the point that it was now thought that a wizard's duel or any kind of mental attack on an elf, even in concert, was tantamount to suicide even more than before. Arya herself had used the technique to destroy an entire cult to a fallen shade by herself with only Feirnen supporting her. They had all literally torn themselves and each other apart. The dragons, like the elves, were quickly able to master this ability and now it was constant teaching for all Riders and dragon when they were preparing to meet actual attack and as such they were now teaching Veravada and her Rider.

Near evening when Amarose woke they were coming in to land at the southern oceanic post. Jurizen landed smoothly and began to stretch as Fela leapt free of his dragon and did his own stretches as the leader of the outpost a Jessica and her dragon Tritos, a startling orange male, came forward bowing. "Atra esterní ono thelduin. Mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr. Un du evarínya ono varda Ebrithil Umaroth and Glaedr, Fela Turin and Jurizen." All four of them spoke as one. "Atra du evarínya ono varda Jessica Shurt'tugal Tritos Bjartskulr. As is well?" Jessica grinned. "All is well Masters. We were not expecting you though. Is there trouble?" Fela shoo his head. "Not at all my apprentice. We are taking on another student to complete her training." Fela gestured at the purple dragon and her Rider. "How have you been since we saw you last?" Jessica giggled. "Well Master it was a hundred and twenty seven years ago when i took this position. I have quite enjoyed it. Its beautiful and very happy here.."

Fela nodded. 'You've done much. the walls look strong and powerful. Your forces are well trained and well armed. How did you gain them?" Jessica giggled again. "I asked for them Ebrithil." Fela laughed then looked at Jurizen. "Would you like to rest?" the black dragon shook his head still stretching his wings. "And you two?" The Eldunari did not respond for a long moment. "No thank you fricia Fela. We are resting comfortably here. We will listen to your instruction to your student. Enjoy." Fela nodded. "I'd like to see it all."

Jessica nodded and took him on the tour of the post. the walls were indeed impressive. Protected from the weather and waves by powerful magical sealants and the runes upon each stone of the wall and the fortified foundation of the walls and the island itself. There were watchtowers with powerful signal lamps and weapons every fifteen feet along the wall which was thirty feet thick and more than a hundred tall with no gate in the wall at all. The only entrance to the post was by dragon. The post supported four hundred guards and their families, twenty five riders and their dragons, grew their own food, raised their own livestock, and made their own weapons, armor, and other arms, even carving out their own stone from the small but deep quarry within the post. Each rune and the sealant that connected the walls was supplied with immense magical power by an abundant supply from large powerful gems set into the walls, towers, and the foundations of the post themselves.

Every spare bit of energy for the last hundred and twenty seven years had been put into these stones and by now the depth of the energy was so immense that the post could withstand a full assault by an armada of a thousand ships with dragons and Riders as well enduring a trio of hurricanes all at once and still remain unscathed. The guards, their families, the animals they raised and killed, the Riders, and of course the dragons who had lived, fought, died for, and left happily from this post had filtered spare energy, dying energy, and when they were resting their entire reserve, into the stones. When Jessica showed Fela the stones he whistled. "The stones of the belt of Beloth the Wise could not have held so much...not even a minimal fraction. This is amazing my dear....allow me to aid you." Before she could speak he funneled a large amount of his own energy into the stones. She was impressed how very much he held. Seeing her face he smirked. "I am a pureborn elf of more than six millenia my dear. When you reach my age you will also possess a similar energy reserve."

While this went on a number of the younger Rider's, all of whom had completed their training, and were now stationed here as a defensive force and something a policing measure for the southern sea. The youngest, Anduin and his dragon Terda, had completed their training only a year before and had known Amarose and Veravada well and upon seeing them called out happily. Terda trumpeted to see Veravada and blew flames as greeting the heat and light making his deep brown scale shimmer with a burning golden light.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Amarose woke peacefully, though she questioned why her mind was full of images of flying tactics, battle strategies and magic usage. Thankfully, Vera answered her:

They were things our teachers taught us during our flight...but you were asleep, little one. Not to worry, the memories and information is safely stored in my mind and are available for access anytime you wish. However, we have just landed—go to Fela Turin.

The swift drop to the ground was smoother than she thought it would be, and she stumbled off her dragon in a half-goggy state, struggling to fully wake herself up. Over where Fela landed, she saw him approached by a girl—human or elf, she couldn't tell—that he greeted happily. The woman's giggle was carried all around the area, and she debated walking over there but suddenly thought better of it, letting the two have their reunion in peace. From a distance, Amarose could see the things that the woman pointed out, also reveling the neat and majestic architecture of the post. What surprised her the most was the collection of jewels that housed a vast store of energy that was so large that when she reached out with her mind, the sheer intensity of it felt like an internal pressure on her mind. Amarose turned to Veravada to ask if she wanted to find a room and rest when she heard another voice interrupt her thoughts.

"Amarose...? AMAROSE!" exclaimed a male voice, different than Fela Turin's. It was immediately followed by magnificent show of roar and flame from a dragon that glimmered in earthy tones of brown and taupe. Amarose turned her head excitedly, knowing it would be Anduin and Terda that had greeted her with such happiness. Anduin, an elf, had been chosen around the same time she had been chosen and they had become near impossible to separate editing their time of being novices. Of course, Anduin always tended to focus more on his studies (as was the way of elves) and he ended up completing his training just in the past year. The pair's history was often muddled by other emotions, flickering on and off, here and there, but neither of them acted upon them, so when Anduin left, the question of emotions was left unanswered. They did, however, enjoy being just friends as they had been each other's firsts, even flying and training together.

"Anduin!" A grin split across Amarose's face as she ran toward Anduin, arms spread out for a hug. The other picked her up, spun her around, and placed her firmly on the ground before squeezing her tight. "I thought I'd never see you again!" Amarose continued, "I mean, I know you were sent to Alagaesia but I never knew where. It's been...a little over a year since I last saw you. How have you been? Do you like it here?"

"Everything is fine here, Terda and I have been settling in quite nicely. It's a lot different and I do miss you but here is home now and it's a pretty good one at that!" He laughed quietly, picking up one of her hands. "Would you like me to show you around? I mean, if you came here then you must be done with your studies as well?"

Amarose explained her situation to her friend, including the tongue trick that caused Eragon and the Council to send her on this journey. "And that's why I'm here. But I didn't come alone. Fela Turin, the elf over there standing next to that woman, is one of my teachers now. He is to accompany me so that 'I don't get myself into other trouble.' At least that's what Eragon said."

Anduin laughed. "And he is quite right in saying so! I do miss when we would have our bit of fun like that. And it seems Terda and Vera feel the same way about each other." A quick glance in the direction of their dragons showed them playing, breathing out smoke and fire while occasionally showing affectionate actions. "Terda has missed Vera, though we didn't think she'd ever get this big! Anyway, the woman over there—" he pointed to Fela and the woman "—is Jessica, the leader of this post. She directs the daily activities, and she also makes sure the larger, more important things get done. Do you have to start training right away or will your teacher let us talk for the night?"

"I don't know," answered Amarose, biting her lip a little bit. "I think he expects to start training soon, possibly tonight. I'm not sure...let's ask." She took Anduin's hand and pulled him over to where Jessica and Fela were. "I'm sorry to interrupt the two of you, but Fela Elda...I wanted to ask if our training was going to start tonight...will it start tonight?" She bit her lip in nervousness, clutching onto Anduins hand as she waited for her teacher's answer.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela turned seeing Amarose and her friend Anduin who greeted his elder in the elven way with Fela responding in kind. "You may spend your time with your friend. But get some rest tonight. We have much to teach you as we fly tomorrow. And be sure you gather the memories Veravada holds for you. You will be tested of your knowledge of them in the morning as well. Go and enjoy yourself. And mind your manners. Also you will speak solely in the Ancient Tongue. Anduin you will not let her slip."

Anduin blinked but nodded. "Yes Ebrithil." Fela nodded. "And unsaddle Veravada. She need not be so encumbered for now." He turned away with the farewell gesture to both young Riders. Jurizen was watching the two young dragons with a smile his tail lashing. Fela spoke in Amarose's mind. "And do not tell anyone else of Glaedr and Umaroth. They do not wish to be disturbed."

Fela walked on with Jessica. "So what have you been doing besides turning this place into a mighty fortress city?"

Jessica smiled. "Well Master we had to rout the South Sea pirates....a truly fearsome band of humans, Urgals, dwarves, and even elves, from the far countries across the sea. They were an impressive force and even attacked this post a number of times. Fortunately we were able to handle them and eventually destroy them. Sadly they would not surrender and they could not be returned to their homeland." Fela nodded thoughtfully as Jessica continued. "And there was Fundir."

"Who?"

She giggled. "Fundir Master."

Seeing his blank look she giggled again. "he was a shade..of a sort. very powerful but not fully realized. He had captured a mighty sea vessel and was sailing from the south of surda toward our new city claiming to ahve been created to destroy Eragon. He was able to pergforma number of imrpessiver feats even using the entire ship to fight and fend us of solely by himself. unfortunately for him we had dragons and when twenty five dragons breath fire at once even a shade cannot halt all the flames. We burned the ship around him as his magic crumbled and he became like ash. We have since learned that he was truly killed and our method ahs been adopted for a number fo other shades thus making their prevelance much less likely."

Fela laughed. "that is very wise of you my dear. fight with your brain not your brawn. You make me proud." She blushed with pleasure then sopoke softly. "Master?"

"Yes?"

"How is Harrow?"

Fela turned to her arching an eyebrow. "Still my child?"

"Always Master."

Fela sighed. "he is well. He has even been to recall some of his past. But he does not remember you yet my dear. Bedor stays nearby trying to aid him but what he truly requires is time. It was not your fault or his." Harrow and Jessica had gone a simply retrieval mission when they were much younger and had succeeded in retrieving the item but had been unfortunate in that the item, a mirror that had belonged to an elf queen long ago, had been cursed by a powerful evil magician. It had blasted poor harrow's mind nearly apart and had fragmented his memory so badly he could only access certain parts at a time. it had taken him nearly fifty years to regain the ability to speak and care for himself He was still a gifted Rider able to perform any number of acrobatics on his beloved Bedor and was often entrusted to teach the children in the ways of the Riim'Gar but more than that he could not yet attain. "Someday he shall remember and you may be together again. I am sure of it." Jessica nodded sorrowfully wiping her eyes.

Fela nodded as well then gently touched her arm. She gripped his forearm tightly then looked up. "oh i forgot to mention...come!"

She turned and began to run and smirking Fela followed her. Jessica was not a morose person and even the deepness sadness could only sadden her for a moment. She took him to the library where she showed him Runin and Belit. Elf children. Fela gasped. "They are beautiful." "yes. and the heart and soul of this post. Arya Droting has expressed many jealousies that we were blessed with them. Drivnak and Cuister are their proud parents." She pointed at two elves, non riders, who watched their children with pride and love clear in their faces. "It was a surprise to us all but a happy one. It seems to me that the elves are returning to the skein of fate Master."

Fela nodded smiling. "so it would seem." then his eyes turned black and Jurizen spoke through him. "You have graced the land with a powerful blessing Drivnak and Cuister. your hatchlings are truly marvels." Then his eyes turned gold as Glaedr spoke. "Yes. Your children give hope for all our races." Finally they turned white as Umaroth spoke. "Mine eyes had never beheld elf children except in Du-Weldenvarden. Wouldst they could see them now. Thank you for this honor Drivnak and Cuister. May the stars and may we dragons always watch over you and your children." The parents both nodded and thanked the four elders. Runin, the elder and female came forward and presented a bouquet of flowers to Fela. "Greetings Fela Turin. Rider of Jurizen." Belit then approached with a leather band that would wrap around Fela's wrist. "Greetings Fela Elda and Jurizen Elda." Fela smiled as they turned to the door and bowing said together. "And greetings Glaedr and Umaroth Eldunari. Wouldst we could see yoru bodies and meet your glorious Riders. " The two Eldunari thanked the children who then turned to Fela. "Master?"

Fela arched an eyebrow but nodded. "yes hatchlings?"

"Would you like to play a game of Vronstad with us and the others?"

Fela smirked as Jessica and the children's parents began to make excuses. "I would be delighted. But you shall have to teach me the game. it has been many long years since I played games and that one i do not recognize." giggling the took his hand and lead him over to the other children and began to teach him the game which was quite simple but very enjoyable. he delighted in it making sure to obey every rule and the children adored him for his zeal. Jessica shook her head as she sat watching. "and to think we are too mature to play."
that thought made her shake herself and she went over to join the game as well.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

"Yes, ebrithil, I understand," Amarose answered back to him in the Ancient Language, finding it odd to speak in a tongue that she only had to use in the most formal of occasions. In any other circumstance, she was used to speaking the language of man, not elves. She walked him walk away with Jessica, who seemed happy to see him. Strange...Amarose hadn't imagined him to seem light and as care-free as he seemed now. Another moment later, and Anduin pulled her along to their dragons.

"Come," he said fluently in the native language of the elves, "let us unsaddle your dragon so she can roam without the burden. And so she doesn't crush anything if Terda knocks her over!" He laughed heartily and began undoing the many straps that kept Amarose's belongings safe. He started with the armor, handing it to a man who was there to assist the young riders. Anduin raised an eyebrow. "A new set of armor? Hm, she really has gotten larger within the past year."

Next came the small satchel of fresh and dried fruit, nuts, and various other vegetation. "And you've adopted the Elvish way of dining? The last I remember, you were complaining that you wanted a bite of Vera's sheep!"

"Yes, well, when most of your teachers and companion are Elves, it rubs off." Amarose wore an amused expression, unstrapping the sack that held her weapons. "And just as always, I fight with my twin daggers. I've gotten better since the last time we sparred, you know." A grin colored her face, and she held up a long, small, curved blade.

"I weild a hand-and-half sword, friend. Much more powerful than a dagger."

"Yes, but I'm also faster...and I've got two of them."

Much debate over who would win the sparring contest escalated to loud banter and boistrous laughter as the pair finished unburdening Veravada, who roared softly in happiness, snapping her wings open to stretch. Amarose, the dragon started, I must show you the memories, do not forget. I'm sure Fela Turin would be upset to hear that you neglected to follow his instruction. Now, little one, I am off to eat!" And with that, Veravada followed Terda into the depths of a dragon hold, eager to dig into a meal after a day of long travel.

Amarose's stomach grumbled, and she instinctively crossed an arm over her abdomen. "Anduin, I think it is time for me to dine as well. Then...and then we can sparr." The two of them walked to the dining hall, where each got a hearty serving of whatever they wanted to eat. Anduin's plate consisted of entirely vegetation while Amarose carried small tidbits of meat with her, mostly cow and pig. During the meal, Veravada recounted the memories of Fela, Jurizen, Glaedr and Umaroth's teachings about sparring and flight, fighting by dragonback and fighting with the mind, emptying it completely rather than thinking of some impenetrable material.

After the food and drink, Amarose and Anduin began the process of making their blades safe, protecting the edges with magic. A crowd had begun to form around them, anticipating a fight between two young and eager Riders.

"Remember, Amarose, I could tear those daggers away with the flick of my wrist." Anuin wore a smug look, raising his sword in preparation.

"I'd like to see you try," the other responded calmly, leaving the daggers out by hers sides.

And so it began.

A whirl of action flared to life, each step by both participants carefully calculated. They locked in and out, Anduin having the advantage of sheer force while Amarose danced away, utilizing speed and lightness of foot for her own advantage. The blades clashed together, making loud clanging noises, everything a blur of violet and brown. One moment, it seemed as if Anduin had the upper hand, and then Amarose would counter, weaving in and out of his actions, spinning her daggers about her as she did so. Hair of gold mixed with that of honey-brown, and the whole ordeal looked to be one calculated dance set up by the two of them. Slowly, Amarose gained the upper hand, being able to predict how her friend would strike and how long it would take the sword to get there. Then, she saw it. The winning blow played out in her mind seconds before she started enacting it, and she gave a half-smile just as her dagger was raised above her head, waiting to come down to Anduin's neck.

"Amarose!"

Her name called was the one thing that made her hesitate as she turned her head to look at who summoned her. Then, another moment later and she suddenly found herself at Anduin's mercy with his sword to her abdomen.

"By the gods, why?" she swore loudly, breaking her string of Ancient language and talking in the language of men. She angrily pushed against Anduin. "That was hardly fair! I would've won that, and you know it."

"Ah," he smiled, "but you lost and I believe your mind was distracted."

The girl let out a sound of anger once more, and looked away to the now clapping crowd of onlookers. "Of all the bad luck," she muttered, "damn whoever it was that caused this..." She looked up and went wide eyed, for it was Fela Turin who was walking through the crowd toward her.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela smirked and touched her shoulder making her whirl again easily blocking her had as the image he had produced of himself faded. "You fight well. But...well a demonstration of the true nature of Rider battle tactics would be wise. Clear the floor." Anduin pulled her away as Fela went around the crowd selecting men and women seemingly at random. Soon he had twenty of them on the floor elves, dwarves, humans, and Urgals with riders, including Jessica, mixed in with guards, and all of them armed differently with unguarded weapons.

"Tritos will ensure that Jurizen does not help me in anyway. My friends i want you to hold nothing back. you will attempt to kill me." As he spoke he removed his clothing until he was only in his leggings. His body was much more muscular and larger than the usual elf, but he was still more trim than bulky. He went to the center of the circle and bowed to each of them in turn then said. "May the stars watch over you all and may peace be in your hearts." he then knelt in the center and rested his hands on his thighs closing his eyes. he took a depth breath and held it. The whole post was dead quiet. He let the breath out and waited.

Jessica caught the eye of a dwarf with an axe and a Kull who had on metal cestus making his hands into unstoppable killers. As one they rushed the elder elf who remained in place. Then as both swung as once he leaned his body back and to the side allowing the dwarf to knock the Kull's strike aside, then planting his left hand Fela swung both legs around knocking both warriors off their feet. he spun axekicking the Kull in the chest knocking him out as he slammed to the sparring floor with a loud whump while Fela gripped the dwarf's ankle and hurled her out of the ring and out of the contest. Fela then resumed his kneeling position as the Kull was dragged off.

Jessica sniffed and nodded at a member of each species. The human had a pair of curved swords, the Kull a mighty war club, the dwarf a warhammer and the elf held a pair of strange circular blades much like Amarose's daggers. Jessica pointed at the crowd who began to roar, dragons included, trying to deafen Fela, and had the dragons stomp and smash their tails about shaking the earth below them. Once it was intolerable the four attacked the Kull coming in from above the elf slashing for his spine, the dwarf attempting to crush his knees while the human stabbed for his heart. The elf children cried out as they swept in then the cacophony went silent.

Fela had rolled backwards and mule kicked his elven brother in the jaw knocking him out, then had kicked off his face to spear the dwarf with his shoulder driving the dwarf face first into the ground putting him out. He had then spun around the Kull and struck the human lightly but repeatedly in the chest sides and face dropping him instantly. He then had leapt kneeing the Kull in the side of the head, right in the horn, putting the Kull down for the count as well. Jessica snarled. 'You killed them!!" "Not a one my student." It was true. they were hurt but not killed and at a gesture from Fela all six were healed and woke to stare at him in shock.

He then returned to the center. "You may come as one." Jessica nodded and the crowd went loud again Many even using magic to attack him mentally and physically , or even just to distract him but as the twelve came on it was clear nothing would break his concentration. Before they could even try to find a rhythm he had already dropped four of them with a rapid series of flipping kicks that carried him from one to the other. He then dropped three more by throwing them bodily out of the ring. The remaining five encircled him then rushed. Fela manipulated their bodies easily slamming them into the floor, walls, and each other with ease until only he and Jessica remained. She hurled a ball of energy at him which eh diverted then dissolved feeding into the walls while she hurled herself her weapons, more magic and even a trick attack from Tritos and Jurizen at him.

He leapt both flame jets, used their tails to vault toward her his movements making them stop their attacks else they would hurt each other as he landed too close to Jessica who tried to backpedal only for him to grip her face and slam her to the floor though he protected her head. he then bowed to his opponents, the dragons included and began to speak.

"My friends the biggest key to fighting is not to think about what move or technique you will do. Your training will find the best technique for you to use. Your task is to empty your mind. You flow into your body and guide yourself at the most basic level. When you learn to do that your reactions will be so quick even a thousand shades will be unable to match your speed. Anyone can do it not just Rider's. And that is the other side. We are warriors. Of the first caliber. I applaud my opponents as well as Anduin and Amarose with their remarkable skill and imagination. But you must learn to fight not with the mind or the body but with your entire being. That will make you a truly unstoppable force. Jessica has mastered this art herself. She merely allowed herself to overextend. Nothing is perfect. But i want you all to note this." he showed them his chest which was bleeding heavily. Jessica gripped the bloody sword and sighed. "Still too fast master."

He shrugged as he healed the slash. "I've been fighting longer than any being here has been alive. It's to be expected. i am proud of all of you. And i clearly have room for improvement myself. I will keep the scar as reminder Jessica thank you. Now my friends i think it is time to eat then to rest. Thank you." He gathered his clothes and started for the highest tower speaking in Amarose's mind. "meet me here at dawn. Until then enjoy your friend. You did quite well. True emptiness is a process. You are well on your well to mastering it."

He went to the top of the tower to meditate and eat his meal, joined by Jurizen who wrapped around his rider and went to sleep.

Jessica stood and sighed but also gave a short laugh. "Old bastard has gotten even quicker. I used to be able to see him do most of that.... ah well." She walked over to Amarose. "Nice fight kid. Made my newest Rider look good too." She started to walk away then turned back. "And for the record Master Fela and i never had anything romantic. My heart belongs to Harrow." Andin blushed as she spoke revealing how she had known.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Anduin blushed in response to Jessica, and Amarose waved her hand nonchalantly in front of her face, saying, "The two of us aren't together either, no worries there."

It had left her mouth before she even processed what she was saying, and the girl nervously coughed into to the crook of her elbow, looking around at everything and nothing. Jessica only smiled and raised an eyebrow before turning and leaving.

"I don't know," Amarose continued, obviously trying to change the subject. "Master Fela and Jessica do seem a little close, you know, Anduin? Like I'm not sure whether to believe it or—"

"We were never together?" Anduin asked, interrupting her with a grin on his face. "Remember when we were much younger? Just venturing into adolescence? I seem to have this memory of you throwing yourself to me, begging me to kiss you." His grin got even bigger, and he was trying to hold off laughter at this point.

"Well that doesn't count!" Amarose countered hotly, stammering away at her words. "I was only 15 years old. And you were almost 50, so we were both too young! ...Not to mention that some of our teachers didn't like it as well!" She laughed then, loosening up her attitude.

The pair walked around the post for an hours time with Anduin showing Amarose around. He showed the dragon keep in its entirety, revealing all the space for all 25 sragons , plus an extra spot for a guest if there ever was one. Next, he showed her the armory, which was quite impressive for a Rider's post. Inside was a plethora of weapons, ranging from axes to bows. Amarose picked up a bow and fired a single arrow to a nearby wooden barrel. She frowned; her aim didn't hit at the exact mark, and it reminded her of why she didn't fight as an archer by dragon back. Anduin went so far as to introduce her to many other Riders, some of whom she remembered from her younger beginninngs of being a Rider apprentice. Finally, nearing midnight, Anduin lead her to her quarters, which was near the top of the fort, with an open cavity for Veravada to easily enter. The only thing that stood over her room was the towers, one of which her Master was staying in.

Although a separate bed in a room was provided, Amarose much preffered the pile of pillows and blanket that was near Veravada's bed of straw. "Thank you, Anduin, I quite enjoyed tonight. I truly have missed you." She offered a bright smile that looked all the more intriguing and sincere in the starlight.

"It was my pleasure, Amarose...you are a pleasure, and a sight to behold..." Anduin lightly rubbed his fingers against her back, eliciting a shiver from the girl. "Beautiful as you are deadly," he laughed softly, bringing his hand from her back to her neck, and down to her collarbone. The feeling was confusing, and Amarose didn't know how to take it. Instead, she stood still and enjoyed the feeling of experiencing a man's touch. It was a pain then, when she had to step away from him.

"i'm sorry," she started, "I just don't know how...I mean, I've never...and besides, I can't." She sighed. "I promised Eragon I wouldn't have too much fun, and this may constitute as being troublesome and too fun. And, I don't want to have to explain to Fela Turin about why I'm late when we leave tomorrow morning."

Anduin looked at her with a sad smile. "Of course, Amarose. Though, if you should find time, I would like to see you again sometime." The elf murmured the traditional farewell and gracefully stepped out of the door.

Amarose sighed for a second time, climbing to the top of the fort, using the stones that jutted out as hand and footholds. Distantly, she could see Jurizen's massive outline at the top of the highest tower, and she sat patiently, waiting for Vera to join her. After another moment, Vera swiftly flew to the top and curled around her.

"Don't you say anything, Vera," Amarose grumbled, leaning back against her dragon.

I was only here to remind you of master Fela's quiz tomorrow, Veravada replied, curling around her Rider and relaxing just the same.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela meditated silently while Jurizen slept around him and the two Eldunari rested within their pouches, his thoughts spreading far and wide. He was funneling his energy into the post and into Jurizen giving the massive dragon a much more restful sleep.

At dawn Fela made his way down to the sparring square and very patiently and quietly waited for Amarose and Veravada to join him, them as Jurizen floated down to circle his Rider again as Glaedr and Umaroth spoke to the elf softly. Fela spoke to Anduin mentally.

"Wake."

The younger elf had not yet fully woken he and his dragon deep in some happy memories. Fela smirked and with a mental slap woke them both.

"Wha!! Oh yes Fela Elda?"

"Please wake Amarose and Veravada? She is shielding her mind from me."

"Of course Fela Elda."

Anduin did as ordered and went to where Amarose and Veravada were sleeping and once ready gave a large mental and verbal shout of, "AMAROSE!!!"

He laughed wildly at the result.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Amarose had a fitful, bizarre night of rest. After Anduin left, she spent much time talking to Veravada about the meaning of life, friendship, and love, wondering if the last of the three was actually real. That is to say, real in a sense that it was something attainable. After much deliberation, the young woman wrapped herself in a blanket and fell asleep at her dragon's side.

Dreams of Anduin flitted in and out of her mind, all of them of different nature. The first had been of their initial encounter with each other at the sparring field. Amarose was little over 12 years, and it was the time that the novices were choosing their weapon of choice. The dream was more of a memory, as the two had sparred for the very first time that day, with A ruin coming out as the victor. The second dream was similar to the scene from the past night, and Amarose replayed it over and over, feeling crushed each time she saw Anduin's sad smile. And the final dream...the final dream was strange to say the least. Anduin had kissed her, ran his hands over her, and the feeling was quite pleasant. He laid her down on the bed of pillows and blankets, unbuttoning the tunic she had on and—

"AMAROSE!"

The girl woke with a start, standing up so quickly that she stumbled forward, struggling to balance herself. Anduin was there, smirking at her, lips twitching jn an almost-laughter. One look at the rising sun made her gasp, and she woke Veravada, jumping on her back to fly down to the sparring square. Once there, she saw Fela laughing hysterically, a sound that came out deep and throaty but smooth all the same.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" Amarose exclaimed, leaping off her dragon's back. She raised her eyebrows at her teacher then, asking, "Is there something humorous that I didn't get or...? No really, what's so funny?"

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela smirked at her wickedly. 'Because of how your friend woke you up. And you upon said waking.'

He stretched through the movements of the Rimgar as he spoke to her. "From now on every morning you are to join me in the Rimgar. Then we shall spar with weapons every other day and weapons with the four between. That is every morning at dawn, Am I clear?"

Jurizen growled and spoke toward Veravada but let Amarose hear. "And you and I shall fly together every morning."

Glaedr spoke to them both. "Now hatchlings this is not a condemnation of your former Masters. We are simply looking to ascertain the depth of your education. And filling in the holes we have already noticed."

Umaroth said. "These are not the fault of you or your teachers. The fault lies with Galbatorix. He had hidden, lost or destroyed so much of our history and knowledge we are still trying to replace it and recreate it. Those spaces must be filled in if you are to become a fully realized DragonRider."

Fela. "The biggest thing you must learn is to control your mind and allow only your dragon access. This is a technique that has marked the new age of Riders and only the most powerful of Riders can achieve this state."

Jurizen. "And you young hatchling must learn the methods of combat and flying that our wild ancestors used to nearly consume the entire elven nation, as well as learning to hold your flames for minutes at a time even at your young age."

Glaedr. "Also we will be teaching you secrets of your kind. You will return to the Rider City of Dos Duendar and present yourself to Eragon and Saphira as the powerful and mighty Rider you are."

Umaroth. "And the powerful and might Rider you always dreamt of being."

All four spoke as one. "So in this the language of truth, magic and power, do you accept this and take us as your Masters? Do you pledge to obey our words, aid the innocent, and fight only for the right? Do you Rider Amarose and Dragon Veravada give your word on this subject?"

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Amarose listened to every word being said, eagerly taking it all in although she was extremely tired. Waking up aroused wasn't all too comfortable either, but she wasn't about to let Fela, Jurizen, Glaedr and Umaroth know this, it would prove to be odd if not outright humiliating.

Her heart sunk at the mention of waking up every morning at dawn. She hadn't had to go through such uniform procedure since about a year ago when she learned all that she could from one of the younger instructors. Nevertheless, she bowed her head and murmured a "Yes, Fela Elda," before continuing to listen. And sparring...that meant she would have to endure the pain and bruising of the weapons, but that was something that she easily got used to.

Finally, all four of her elders created an oath for her to follow, and she answered in kind. "Yes, of course — I mean, why would I not — I mean...yes, ebrithil, Fela Elda. I choose all of those things and accept you as my newest master." Amarose bowed her head in respect, and Veravada lowered her snout, mentally repeating all that her Rider agreed to.

"So," Amarose continued, "shall we spare now, or spare later...? I know it's well past dawn, and I'm truly sorry, I really am."

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela smiled. "No. We will not spar today. You will gather your things, saddle Veravada then we will set out for Alagaesia. You may sleep on her back again. We shall teach you through her. But I warn you this is one of the last times we will accept such conditions Amarose. You must learn to conserve your energy and your rest."

Fela turned away still moving through the Rimgar while Jurizen went over his claws and every scale he could reach making sure each was clean and in its usual perfect condition.

Jessica came out so see this and groaned. "It could be worse. He made me join him in that when i hadn't even completed level one. Every morning. Since you will likely see him first will you give this to Harrow?" She held out a letter letting Amarose feel the very raw emotions that were attached to the letter. The man it was to was very special to her. Far more than Fela was. She loved her old master but like a father no more. She also made it clear through her thoughts and feelings that she did not appreciate Amarose hinting that there was anything sordid between the two.

"Please Rider? Give me aid?"

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

"Yes, of course," Amarose replied with a slight smile, knowing if she even attempted to make light of it, she would be treading in deep waters with Jessica. She took the letter and spoke a promise in the Ancient Language to give it to Harrow. "It will be safe with Veravada and I, do not worry." Amarose pocketed the letter within the breast pocket of her coat and turned to get her belongs ready.

After her things were packed and ready, she jumped on Veravada's back and braced herself as the dragon leaned back on its haunches preparing to take flight. A second later, Amarose felt the rush of wind on her face paired with the loop of feeling settling within the pit of her stomach. The pair landed In the sparring square a ways away from Fela Turin, who was still going through the finishing stages of the Rimgar. Amarose cringed at the sight of the actions, knowing that each of the poses would coninously put strain on her body. She herself had not fully gone through the later stages of the Rimgar, but she knew her Master would require all of the stages and the poses within.

"Hello, Fela-elda," she said, bowing her head in respect. "Where is it that we will be flying off to today? The dwarves kingdoms in the Beor Mountains?" An air of excitement grew around her, and she waited patiently for her instructor to give answer.

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Fela ran up Jurizen's leg fell into the saddle as his leg straps fastened themselves in place he smiled as they took off. "We fly for the beaches at the south of the Beors. To the newest dwarven city of Dwarrowknurla. We shall reach in two days. We shall teach you the methods to do so. The biggest thing is that you must not go near the sea itself. There have been reports of a resurgence of the Nidwhalr even here in the Eastern Sea, and they seem to have developed a higher sense of self. They are no longer eating each other. That much I can verify.''

He rolled his broad shoulders as he sat proud and tall in Jurizen's saddle and the dragon angled south and west toward the city he had told her about. As they did so Jurizen and the two Eldunari began to speak about the methods of conserving energy by riding the wind streams to glide as each such wind stream had a different temperature, strength, direction, and of course speed. They told them both how to enter and follow the wind streams and the methods to use to let the wind do all of the work to travel as Jurizen was already.

After discussing that they fell silent for a while to allow Amarose to get her rest and for Veravada to grow accustomed to the wind. Jessica and her post were not fully up but their dragons were and they gave a powerful roar letting loose with blasts of flames that merged into a myriad of colors making a rainbow high into the air. Anduin and Terda gave a powerful mental shout. "Take care friends. Life and peace to you both." They all wished the same to the other four and Fela nodded giving his own salute.

He then turned to look at Amarose. "you may rest now my dear."

RE: Into the Riders' Legacy [BlinkyWinky & Greeneyed23]

Warmer streams will raise you to a higher altitude. Entering a stream smoothly requires you to approach going about as fast as the stream itself. Do not get caught in between streams, where there is staganat air. Amarose repeated a few of the instructions within her mind, taking note of them as she first attempted to glide into the stream just as Fela and Jurizen had done. The attempt was a failure. Veravada snapped her wings out to the sides, trying to stabalize herself within the stream of wind, but both dragon and Rider were forcefully pushed out, tumbling downward. The sensation was strange to say that least, as neither of them had to learn how to ride a wind stream before. The second attempt proved to be more success ful, as Veravada sped up her flight, then twisted as she entered the stream a second time, leaning to either side depending on which wing needed leverage to stabalize. After a final struggle, Amaroae could feel her dragon relax underneath her.

"Good, Vera, that was good!" she complimented, grinning and rubbing a spot on Veravada's lower neck. "We'll get the hang of this, as we do everything else."

The dragon made a rumvble deep within her chest that resonated around her body, vibrating her entire being. The sound was in happiness and pride, and one sparkling eye rolled back to look at her Rider before she maneuvered to fly behind Jurizen. Distantly, the dragons of the Riders' post could be hears, as well as Anduin's farewell. His voice made Amarose feel the sudden sadness in her heart again, but Fela's voice cut through her thoughts,

"You may rest now, my dear," he said to her.

The girl turned her head, looking at him though she spoke to him mentally. "I'm not normally this tired..." She yawned. "For some reason, the past couple of nights have been uncomfortable, and I couldn't find the energy to put myself to sleep. A number of things were on my mind, so I laid awake pondering them...although I must admit, losing sleep over them did not help me whatsoever. I promise; I will get more rest." She laid her head down on Veravada, though she kept her eyes wide open. Amarose was merely resting her mind, and she was mesmerized by the motion of Jurizen's wings, watching the male Rider pair fly. Fela looked tall and graceful as always, and Jurizen held power with every beat of his wings.