Talias was being overrun. There were just so many troops and it seemed for every troop he killed 2 more would come. This isn’t working, he thought to himself. If this continues he would get killed. He had to come up with a plan and fast. Dead troops lay all around him. He decided he had to find a friendly soldier; he couldn't fight all of these men by himself. He struggled as he made his way through the horde of enemies.
Wil looked toward Sloane. "Good to see you!" he shouted, parrying a black arrow and sending his own toward the archer. He slumped over, the arrow protruding from his skull. "Good shot." Lucia said. She was never far from him during the battle. Wil nocked an arrow and aimed it at a mage. His aim was true. The arrow flew at almost mach speed, with help from a quick shout of "Thrysta!", and flew clean through the man's chest. It continued to pierce armor and bone until fifty soldiers lay dead from the single shaft. As soon as the one was released, Wil nocked another. He sent shaft after shaft into the fray. Soon, there was an arc of steel-armored corpses laying fifty wide all around him. Wil put his bow away and drew his sword. Another captain rushed toward him. Wil decided to fight dirty. He punched the man's Adam’s apple and then spat in his face. Wil then stripped the man of his left calf. The man fell. Wil stiffened the man's body with a single spell, then made his body float with another. Wil took the man to a safe haven on the battlefield, behind a few brave soldiers and Kagraign. "What do you know?" Wil asked harshly. He held his blade to the man's throat. Wil leaned his face up close to the man's. The man was sweating bullets, his face pale. His eyes were laden with fear. "Believe me. If you don't talk, I will do things to you that not even Galbatorix would do in your worst nightmares!" Wil threatened. The man still didn't talk. "Looks like it's time for some cruel punishment." Wil said. He began to slowly remove the man's chest plate. Once he got the chest plate off, Wil thought of a spell to use. He couldn't fit the words together, so he just said, "Brisingr," and the man screamed in pain. Wil blocked out the agonizing screams. The man's skin was splitting, as if on fire. There was no flame though. Then, the man screamed, "Alright! I’ll talk! Just take the pain away! Please!" Wil reversed the spell. The man's bare chest skin was cracked and red and festering. "You'd better talk fast. Disease and more agony are well on their way." Wil said. The man told him everything he knew. "Thank you, now, all I'll need is your affirmed resignation from Galbatorix' army, and you're free to go." Wil said. "Alright, I'll even join your ranks if you want me to, just please, don't do that again and please heal me." The man said. Wil felt for the man, if ever so slightly. He healed the man, released the spells, gave him a clean set of clothes, and let the man go. The man ran off, out of the castle, and Wil never saw him on the battlefield again.
"Wil! Lucia!" Sloane ran toward the pair. "How are you? What are you doing here?"
Kagraign? Nysia said. She dipped her head to the green dragon.
"I got a scent on a hatchling around here. I think I found her. Nysia got Kagraign’s mind signals and landed over here. But, as I asked, what are you doing here?" Sloane asked, cocking am eyebrow. "I could have some fun here", she observed, playfully.
Reb watched a group of soldiers sneak up on Wil. “DUCK." She screamed at him and she released a dagger. It sliced a few throats and then fell to the ground as a sword hit it. She released a jet stream of fire and then ice. The remaining soldiers around him froze or burned. She whipped her hands on her pants leg then drew her sword and parried a blow. Star Gazer roared from up above and let fire hit Reb. It illuminated her and her sword burned with a new light.
Despite all her archery, the soldiers never seemed to diminish in number, but instead kept on growing, soon, she was out of arrows and had to land. "Emrhyst, I’m going to jump off, fly low." As Emrhyst started her decent, Eriel spied more soldiers coming out of a trapdoor near the cellar, “Jierda!" The wooden trapdoor collapsed on the men underneath, "Emrhyst, flames!" Emrhyst let out a torrent of flames heading straight for the trapdoor, "Thrysta Brisingr" The fire shrunk enough to let it go through a small air hole, "Losna" The fire returned to its original volume, burning through the ranks of soldiers still left in that tunnel. "That settled that" Emrhyst said as she landed before taking off again, wrecking havoc wherever she went. Eriel jump off Emrhyst, using her blade to kill and to maim. She killed another lieutenant, she spied a blade coming down on her, the soldier doing this seemed to be a rookie though, as he held his sword in such a fashion that left a big opening for any arrow. Eriel threw her sword in the air, caught it with the blade facing back and plunged it deep into the man's chest. The blade cut through his armor, tore through his skin, punctured a lung and exited the man's body through the back, then, she pulled the blade upwards and made a whole two times as big as her blade, satisfied, the pulled out the blade and left him to die. She started thinking about the soldier for he was quite young, and had a lot to accomplish; she almost resented what she had done. Suddenly, she saw Talias heading towards her, followed by a group of soldiers. Tired as she was, she dared not use only the energy remaining in her body for the spell; instead, she took some from the vast reserves of her dragon, "Draumr Brisingr!" The whole party of soldiers fell dead. "Well met Talias-vodhr"
"Wil, your lot's looking a bit tired..."
Aren't you going to introduce us? Nysia asked, looking around at all the Dragons. Mage sniffed the air.
Humans! he warned.
"That means we may need to hurry. So what's going on here?" Sloane asked, setting her hands on her hips. Marox growled deep in her throat.

Faefnir flew with great speed towards the battle with the Stag running at his side. He had been watching this battle since it began, but he knew that eventually, the group would be overrun despite having 3 Riders, one of them his good friend, Star gazer. It took him and the Stag mere minutes to get out of the desert and approach the battle. As the Stag stayed behind to watch the road for more soldiers, Faefnir circled over the battle site to see if the group could possibly hold up. They couldn't. Faefnir saw their anxiety and the fatigue of battle coming across their faces. So, Faefnir decreased his speed, told the Stag to go ahead and join the battle, then with one swift motion, landed in front of the main group of soldiers, his golden form dazing and confusing them. As the Stag gored several more soldiers along the group's right flank, Faefnir let out an astounding roar, then engulfed the soldiers with golden flame. This made Faefnir almost sick, hearing those horrible screams and burning flesh, but he knew it had to be done.
Reb screeched as she was forced to the ground by a strong man who was fighting for Galbatorix. Star Gazer threw him so far with her jaws he landed next Faefnir. Reb launched back into battle and so Did Star Gazer.
Eriel and Emrhyst looked up at the magnificent dragon; his scales were shining so bright it looked almost like white. Their morale skyrocketed at the new reinforcements, and their legs stopped trembling. Emrhyst looked at the gold dragon in surprise, awe, reverence and glee; she never thought that so ancient a dragon had survived the war. When she saw Faefnir roar she almost jumped back in fright, the fire was so close Eriel actually put a spell around her to protect her from the flames. The soldiers looked dismayed, having already lost 2 captains and 3 lieutenants, they were barely hanging on and now they saw more reinforcements for their enemies, some of them broke ranks but most of them fought all the harder, driving Eriel towards the wall and away from Emrhyst. She fought hard, but soon, she was wounded in many places, she had almost no more energy left and her wards were used up. Then a spear pierced her sword arm to pin it to the wall, causing her to release it. She cried out in agony, before she drew her dagger and hacked at the shaft. The shaft broke into two and it fell to the ground. She forced her arm out of the remainders of the spear shaft and maimed a soldier with her dagger. She transferred his remaining energy into her body. Emrhyst came bellowing and mad with rage towards her rider, slaying all in her path. The distraction allowed Eriel enough time to heal her arm, quick as lighting; she seized her sword and plunged it deep into the abdomen of the soldier who wounded her. She whispered,"Draumr Adurna" The soldiers fell into a swoon and lay on the ground, dead.

"Well met," Talias said to the person whom had just saved him. he looked around at the dead soldiers around him. He drew his bow a nocked a arrow. "Brisingr!" Talais shot a arrow with great power and it exploded into another upcoming party of soldiers. "there is to many we have to come up with a plan we are being over run. Talias slashed another upcoming soldier.
Faefnir heard this comment as did the Stag. Talias, Reb, get everyone out of here. I will hold off the soldiers until all of you can make your escape. -------, lead them away from this place. Keep them safe. Now go! Quickly! With those words, Faefnir closed off the flanks with magic so no more soldiers can enter, but still allowed people to exit. He bellowed one more time, then plunged into the main force, crushing all who got in his way.
Wil looked to Sloane. "I could be considered a lieutenant of this operation. I created a plan about seventy-two hours ago to take Galbatorix' life. Then, there were only three of us, now..." Wil gazed at the small army fighting for freedom. Maybe this is what the Varden felt like when they first started? Kagraign chimed in. "Maybe so, but still, we mustn’t let Faefnir have all the fun. He may think he's protecting us but I believe we should continue to fight. We are, after all, an army of liberators. A band of gallant rebels. We have the energy and will to fight! We will win this day! There will be no dying! All of you! Follow me! To freedom! To life without Galbatorix!" Wil shouted to the lot. He charged into the line of soldiers, Lucia and Kagraign hot on his heels. Wil met the first spearman with a renewed burst of energy. He leapt over the man, piercing the spear arm with his blade. He landed behind the man to be dealt a crippling blow to the gut from the spear. Wil doubled over in severe pain. He knew the light body armor he'd been given by the elves was strong, but it didn't block the pain. He knew the blade end would come 'round to take his head, and Wil was prepared. He back flipped just in time, as he saw the blade stick into the ground. He took a moment to inspect himself. He had a few broken ribs, but no serious damage. Yet. He picked up his blade and impaled the man. He looked to his left and met another's eye. The man had seen his deed and was wide-eyed with fear. He ran. Wil chased after him, kicked his legs out from under him, and held his blade to the coward's throat. The man bawled, crying out things such as "Please don't hurt me, I have a family that I wish to see once more before I die!" Wil cursed his own kind, young heart. He lifted his blade and gave the man the same warning he'd given the tortured man. The man ran off into the battle, to be pierced in the shoulder by a stray arrow. Wil watched him leave. "Atra esterní ono thelduin, Mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr, Un du evarínya ono varda." he whispered. He then returned to the fight. He found a rookie corporal giving orders like it was nobody's business. "Cocky son-of-a..." Wil murmured. He charged toward the man and kicked him in the stomach. The man reeled and then swung around. He pulled his blade and struck Wil on the left shoulder. "D-damn you..." Wil said. His arm exploded in pain as he dropped his blade to clutch his crippled limb. He fell to his knees. "Heh, stupid boy! You were never meant for fighting! Why couldn't you just stay home and let our good king rule us peacefully!" the man shouted. Wil got angry. Very angry. He forgot his shoulder and picked up his blade. He knew his eyes were glowing bright green. It always happened when he got mad. He lost all interest in anything but the man. Arrows whizzed past his head, blades struck his body, but he never got a scratch. "Y-you believe that...that...tyrant, no, monster, is a good king!?" Wil shouted. He'd lost it. He wasn't angry anymore, no, Wil was furious. He never wanted to believe that anyone believed in the monster as this man did. Wil couldn't even think of the worst curse he could lay on this man. He battered the man's helmet with the flat of his blade. The helmet went flying. Pointed ears and fair black hair were revealed. "Vanyali..." Wil said, astonished. The man looked at Wil with fair eyes. "I-I can't believe that anyone, lest an elf, would agree with Galbatorix." Wil said. He took his blade and, with many a regret, pierced the elf's chest plate. The elf fell to the ground with a soft grunt, never to sing a merry song again. Wil was starting to regret ever thinking of this plan. Too many lives were being lost. He healed his shoulder, sighed, and continued the fight
A soldier smashed his sword into her back side, slicing it. She stumbled forward and Star Gazer was no where around. She had gone to fight with Faefnir. The man then whirled his blade around and she just barely moved out of the way as it hit the air in front of her neck. A little blood ran down her throat and onto the floor. She parried his blow and then stumbled even farther back. " Zantya I could use some help." Reb screamed out loud and gazes shot to her. Then they realized who she was. Then to her dismay Leth stepped forward. Her death sword swinging at her side.
“So glad I get to kill you here for all to see." Leth said with a grunt.
“This is my fight, not Reb’s." Zantya warned. “By all means take over." Reb said. And then she transformed wearing her red outfit.
Faefnir looked at Star gazer as she approached, with the Stag at her side. What are you two doing here?! Get out of here before it's too late! Faefnir parried a blow from the side by a spearman, then swung his tail around to hit someone behind him while slicing the disarmed spearman with his talons. Suddenly, Faefnir looked up to see a monstrous black dragon with a very ancient Rider on his back. Oh no. Star gazer! Get everyone out of here! It's Galbatorix! Then, with a newfound rage he had not felt in many, many years, Faefnir took off towards the black form of Shruikan and the corrupt Galbatorix. As Faefnir flew closer towards them, he thought, At long last. The epic struggle between two mighty figures: Faefnir, oldest and most powerful of all dragon kind against Shruikan the Cursed and Galbatorix, destroyer of the Rider's Order. He met Shruikan in a glorious display of fire and blood.
Eriel and Emrhyst fought to get to each other, slaying all in their path. Just then, Galbatorix and Shruikan appeared in the sky. Eriel's blood froze, her limbs started to tremble, her heart was beating so fast she could feel it thumping against her chest; she had not felt so afraid since the fall of the riders. But Emrhyst felt the exact opposite, she was excited at finally meeting shuriken, within her eyes burned a fire so bright it almost looked like two suns. Their emotions traveled across their mental link, Eriel was surprised at Emrhyst's excitement whereas Emrhyst was concerned for her rider. "Come on little one, if we die here, we die, I mean, as rider and dragon, we're supposed to fight Galbatorix." "Your right Emrhyst, if my queen saw me like this, I'd be banished from Ellesmera for an eternity." With that, she slipped onto her dragon's back, transferring all the energy she could get from the fallen soldiers. Soon, she had enough to place 5 wards around each of her comrades there. She flew into the fray, shouting aloud her battle cry in her mind and verbally. All she saw now was Galbatorix on Shruikan, her eyes burned with hatred, below her, Emrhyst let out a great jet of flame with one loud "Rawr!" Eriel sent fire and water at them with loud shouts of "Adurna!" and "Brisingr!". As they approached the deadly duo, Eriel drew her sword.
Zantya watched as her sister stepped towards her. Her black blade flashing with death in Zantya's eyes. She drew her sword and held it high. “No wonder father never believed in you." Zantya shouted.
"He was weak." Letheona answered.
“So you killed your own flesh and blood?" Zantya asked horrified.
“Yes you see, my sword is named Demon and it was just itching to kill the king of the Shades." Letheona answered then swung at Zantya who dodged the blow.
“I come to help, and the humans won't leave." Star Gazer roared then slammed into the black dragon.
Talias heard Faefnir's message. "Come one we got to get out of here!" he shouted at his companions. He rushed out side where troops were raining arrows off roof tops. Several of his allies fell dead, victim to several arrows. He saw the rest of his allies at what he assumed to be the rendezvous point. he made a jolt for the area and took a wound in the leg from a arrow and then another arrow landed right next to him. he summoned all of his energy and escaped.
Faefnir grew increasingly angry at their persistence, but he couldn't help but admire it at the same time. NO STAR GAZER! I MUST DO THIS ALONE! GET EVERYONE OUT OF HERE! THAT'S THE SAME FOR YOU, EMERHYST! I DON'T WANT EXCUSES, JUST GO!!!!!!!! Faefnir took a blow from the side by Shruikan's tail, but it barely bruised him. He managed to climb onto Shruikan's back and tried to knock Galbatorix off of his saddle, but Galbatorix merely jumped above him and nearly punctured Faefnir's wing. Faefnir leaped off of Shruikan's back, then tried to freeze his wings, only to be foiled by Galbatorix's magic. Then, before Faefnir could react, he saw a ball of dark energy traveling speedily toward his chest. Faefnir tried to fly out of the way, then tried to use magic to counter it, but it was too late. The ball struck Faefnir in the chest, sending him plummeting, quickly, towards the earth. He struck it with great force, knocking him unconscious and leaving him barely hanging onto life.
"Faefnir!" Emrhyst screamed her thoughts out as she saw another ball of energy speeding towards Faefnir's head. Eriel acted quickly, remembering her master's lessons on what to do when someone you don’t want to die is on the brink of death, she released all the wards surrounding her allies and placed all of them on Faefnir. The ball hit the wards, greatly taking up her energy and sent her flying off the saddle and into the air. Emrhyst quickly melded her mind with Eriel's and lent her the energy to land safely. She took off her saddle, removed the wards and teleported herself to the meeting point and lay her head down on her dragon's saddle. Emrhyst was in a fit of rage, she could not bear to see a dragon die in such a manner. Her eyes shone with the glory of battle, her heart was filled with an anticipation that removed the trembling from her limbs. She launched herself at Faefnir and pulled him out of the fray, she took several arrows as Galbatorix had ordered his archers to kill Faefnir but Emrhyst took all the arrows, some glancing off harmlessly as they struck her scales while most hit soft areas like her nose and wings. By the time she reached the meeting point, she was covered in a pool of blood and exhausted from the ordeal. Eriel jolted up as she felt her dragon's pain across their mental link, she quickly drew all the energy she could get from her surroundings, pulled out all the arrows and healed Emrhyst's wounds. As soon as she released the magic, a wave a death rolled over the smaller creatures and plants. 'Well, at least were safe' Eriel casually remarked.
“Faefnir!" Star Gazer roared in rage, and launched her black body into the air. Her mere size was no match to Faefnir or Shruikan’s sizes but she had to try. As Shruikan made his way down to Faefnir, she extended her claws and slashed his side, and then dove away from him. Shruikan took his attention away from Faefnir and towards her. She almost felt fear as the beady red eyes shot towards her and seared her very being with evil. " Run Humans." She screamed as the black body slammed into hers.
Zantya's head whipped around from her battle as she heard Star Gazer's call, and from an opening in the roof she saw her dragon being pile drived into the ground. She wasn't paying attention to Leth, and her sister drove her demon sword into Zantya's abdomen and then pulled it out, painfully slow. Zantya began to sway. Then Leth smiled a rueful smile and walked away from her death headed sister. Soldiers followed her to leave the battle.
Star Gazer roared as she felt the pain her rider was feeling and the pain she was feeling. Shruikin had a hold on her neck and was biting down hard. She was trying to scratch his unprotected underside, but Galbatorix was helping along the fight by stabbing her in the side. She was giving up and felt her life slipping away just like her rider's. Shruikan took one more bit, and the world went black from then on.
Zantya cried as she hobbled out of the castle, passing the meeting room with a trail of blood. Zantya fainted and Reb came back to control, still in the same pain. She hobbled out onto the landing spot, and watched her dragon fall. A tear rolled down her cheek as she fell.
Faefnir immediately woke from his coma to find Eriel standing next to him. But it wasn't because of the presence of the Rider that awoke him. It was pain Star gazer was feeling. She's almost dead! With that thought, Faefnir launched himself into the air and plowed right into Shruikan's side. Shruikan lost his grip on Star gazer. As she fell Faefnir swiftly caught her and lowered her gently, far from the battle. Then he realized Zantya was in trouble. He launched him back into battle and found Zantya nearly dead as well. He brought her to Star gazer and, with one word of power, revived them and healed their wounds.

Reb woke next to her dragon, and noticed Star Gazer was still asleep. Faefnir was standing not to far away. She walked up to him and kissed him on the cheek, then walked back to her dragon and tended to her. She still felt the pain in her gut, but it was more distant than it had been. She rubbed her hands down Star Gazer's neck over a scar and her hands lit to an orange aura and then heat radiated down into her dragoness. Star Gazer woke.

After making sure Star gazer and Reb were alright, Faefnir leered up at Shruikan and took off with even greater fury than ever before. Then he spoke to Shruikan the Cursed in the dragon tongue. "A PLAGUE ON YOU AND YOUR DESCENDANTS!" Shruikan answered back. "AND MAY ALL YOUR FRIENDS DOWN THERE ROT IN FILTHIEST URGAL HOLE!" Faefnir decided it was unwise to take the black dragon head-on like the previous time, so instead, he looped over Shruikan, than out flew him. He managed to singe Shruikan's right wing, but it didn't do enough to send him falling. So Faefnir took a more complex approach. He turned towards the right, then heaved his tail right into Galbatorix's chest. As Galbatorix fell the short ways towards the Earth, Faefnir held Shruikan in the air, hoping that it would give his allies enough time to slay Galbatorix, or at the least incapacitate him. Faefnir projected his thoughts so all his allies could hear him. Now everyone! Take this opportunity and rid Alagaesia of this madman! I'll handle Shruikan!

"Everyone charge!" Wil shouted. He rushed toward Galbatorix, who had an entire division of men surrounding him by now. Wil and Lucia rushed toward the fray. Kagraign flew up to help Faefnir handle Shruikan. Wil assessed the situation. He could try to jump the gap that was the hundreds of soldiers and risk getting speared to death before landing, or he could just blast his way through. Wil stopped, drew Mor'ranr, and stabbed the blade straight down into the ground. He concentrated as the soldiers rushed toward him. "Deloi Moi!" he shouted. The crack he'd created with his blade opened up. Wil jumped to one side of the chasm as most of the soldiers fell in. He then closed the gap as quickly as he'd opened it. It drained him of all strength. He focused on the soldiers trapped in the tomb below. He drew all of their life forces into his body. Recharged, Wil pulled Mor'ranr out of the ground and slashed his way through more soldiers. Meanwhile, Kagraign fought alongside Faefnir against Shruikan. He struggled against the huge dragon. He was big, but Shruikan had been on Earth longer and had been given so many souls he was almost impossible to hold back. Please, at least give the rest of us time to get to Galbatorix. Wil thought to both Kagraign and Faefnir.

"Young one, get onto my back" with elven speed, Eriel leaped onto Emrhyst's back and shot into the air. They released torrents of flames and huge balls of water. As they approached Galbatorix, Eriel jumped off and aimed a dreadful stab at Galbatorix's heart. Galbatorix reacted quickly, dodging to one side, he maneuvered himself such that Eriel would be dreadfully wounded by the blade and not being able to dodge or block. Eriel saw the move and tried to counter it, she was too late though, the blade cut through her leather armor, sliced her skin, pierced the flesh and her right lung before exiting by the back. Emrhyst roared in pain and helplessness. Eriel grit her teeth, eyes watering, she pulled the blade out, her blood on the floor and the blade. She staggered to her feet, only to be knocked down by Galbatorix as he said, "Poor elf, i almost pity you." He snatched his sword from her weakened grip and stabbed her thigh, thus pinning her to the ground. Emrhyst came flying through the air, trying to kill Galbatorix. "Reisa" he muttered, the spell hardly using any of his energy. Emrhyst stood pinned in the air, unable to move. Eriel raised her head and looked into his eyes. Despite excruciating {Sp} pain, she managed to mouth a spell, "Geuloth du sverda" Galbatorix's blade landed harmlessly on her head. He looked at his sword, he jabbed his stomach with it. Nothing happened. He thrust it into his abdomen, underneath her breath, Eriel said," Se du sverda waise hvass." The blade passed right though his armor. Before it found home though, he pulled out the blade and sliced her abdomen. Darkness surrounded her, Emrhyst grew weak, soon they fell unconscious, barely hanging onto life.
"Go! Now!", Sloane yelled. Mage and Marox took a step forward, then charged the last few soldiers around the king.
Sloane we have some help! Sloane spun around, Nysia came speeding toward her with...Morda! The red dragon was gleaming and her eyes were set. She was in a rage. She roared and scraped over the rank of soldiers on one side of the large crack Wil had made.
Sloane screamed and charged the king. Sloane brought her sword up and was about to bring it down on the king, when he held it back. "Wha-?"
Galbatorix smiled, then shoved Sloane back. She almost fell, but she scraped her heels into the stone and stopped, regaining her balance. Her arm fell and she leaned heavily on her sword. Slowly, she raised one hand to her face. Her scars were rising. "No!" Her body went up in flames for a moment, then a voice filled her ears, Fight the past, Princess...
Her eyes again fell on the king, then she looked to Wil. He was still running toward the king, dodging through the last soldiers.
I'll try and buy him some time, she thought. But first...She waved her hand, pulling the spell off of Eriel. "Emrhyst, take her away from here!" Sloane called, standing in front of the other elf.
The king moved toward her and she raised her sword and Nysia's wings fell over her in protection. Emrhyst gave Sloane a glance and then picked up her rider. "Go, Nysia..." Sloane whispered.
The Star Dragon moved away, blasting into the air again. Sloane rounded her shoulders, then took a stance and steadied her arm.
The battle wasn't faring well for Faefnir either. Shruikan, although much younger in years, still had all the strength and cunning of a dragon twice as old as Faefnir. Faefnir knew he only had to keep Shruikan away from Galbatorix, but it won't be long until Shruikan will be able to fight past him. So Faefnir forged a brilliant that no dragon in history had ever done before. Faefnir maneuvered to Shruikan's underside, almost as if he was initiating a mating flight. He propelled Shruikan forward, but while doing so, lifted up on of his talons, carving a huge scar on Shruikan's soft scales. Shruikan howled in pain, as did Galbatorix. Shruikan lost his sense of flight, and he plummeted toward the ground. Faefnir followed him down. When Shruikan hit the ground, they were far away from the battle. Faefnir roared in victory, and then moved in for the bite on Shruikan's neck that would kill him.
Star Gazer howled when she saw Faefnir, she wanted to get up and fight, but she was so weak it was of no use. She sat there with pleading eyes. She wanted to beg him to stop fighting, he may get hurt. But the battle was over for her and her rider, and she could do nothing to stop that.
Eriel woke up half an hour later, she noticed the wounds on her chest and her thigh."Ngh.....Where am I?" “Oh! Your alive little one!" Emrhyst exclaimed as she nudge Eriel with her muzzle. “Hush now, u need to rest, a good fright you gave me, I thought you were dead! Oh, u really should heal those wounds, their kind of bad." Eriel paused, racking her mind for the spell her master used when his dragon was stabbed in the lung. "Ah right here goes, Eka gath brisingr, adurna, vindr un eka skulblaka........." When she finished, she found her wounds gone and her flesh restored. “C’mon young one, Reb needs help with her wounds. They flew off to find Reb and Stargazer

Just as they flew off, Eriel noticed a great cloud of dust forming at the horizon. She strained her eyes, “Urgals....." projecting her thoughts so that everyone could hear, she said, "Faefnir, Stargazer, Will, Sloane! Urgals approach from the east! It seems a great army, the dust created rises 6 feet into the air. I'm going to stay at the rear for now, they approach fast." “Little one, what about Reb??" "She will have to wait." Eriel said this as she raised a mud wall, complete with battlements and towers around the campsite. Then she stationed herself on the east wall, facing the urgal army. A kull stepped out of the ranks, saying aloud in a crude voice, "We will take this encampment or yours, surrender now for rider or not, you will die otherwise." Eriel drew her sword and lifted it high above her head, saying, "Come then, take it if you can!" Emrhyst let out a great jet of flame which burned the ground a inch away from the nearest urgal, causing him to move back. The kull said again, "I will not stand for that insult; you will die this day elf!" He then shouted some orders and the whole army began to advance, chanting a battle cry along the way. "Well little one, are you ready?" "When was I not?" She sheathed her sword and flew into the air, raining down arrows and deadly spells upon the urgals.
Faefnir looked at the new Urgal army. He knew their presence would ruin his plan of escape. He saw Eriel make a mud wall, but failed to bring Reb, Star gazer, and Zantya back to the camp. They would be slaughtered! Faefnir swiftly rode with the wind and grabbed Reb and Zantya with his claws. He returned them safely to the camp, then proceeded to attack the Urgals. While doing this, he spoke to Eriel. Eriel, I never want you to assume that someone is not worth rescuing. The Urgals were still many yards away and you could have easily gotten them yourself. Don't fail me like that again. Faefnir then plunged downward and roasted several hundred Urgals with his fire breath, initiating the third stage of the battle.
“Thanks." Star Gazer said, a little angrily that he didn’t' think she could care for her rider. She launched into the air and slammed into the army. The air gliding her just above where she could get in a few good shots of black fire.
Eriel was a little hurt by Faefnir, the fact that she did her best and got reprimanded for it hit her hard. Not wanting to be shamed by Faefnir, she hid the thought behind thick mental barriers and got defensive. "I...I...Fine...I just tried to do my best, don't reprimand me for that." Eriel said this just as she casted another spell, obliterating most of the rearguard.
Faefnir heard this as he swiped several Urgals with his tail. He didn't smile in that he was quite preoccupied at the time, but he allowed his emotions to be seen as he responded. That is perfectly fine Eriel. I forgive you. Just remember to think about what's right before what's smart. If you have no morals, you cannot hope to succeed. Then he detected Star gazer's anger at him bringing Reb and Zantya to the camp instead of herself. Forgive me young one. I let my emotions run me and I didn't think at the time you would be angered. I just did what I believed was right at the time. He flew a little higher so he could get a good view of what must be done so they could escape.
“Since when am I 'young one'?" She asked amused then shot a long stream of black fire onto the army. Down below Reb ran out in front of the army. “Star Gazer, here it comes." She screamed and fire shot up from the ground in front of her. It cast a red glow on her arms and the wall circled the army, boxing it in.
“Dragon’s, move." Star Gazer roared. Then added, “Eriel, you did fine.". The blackest fire Star Gazer had ever conjured shot from her maw, and ignited the entire army; in a black inferno.
Wil looked at the mud wall that had been conjured. He figured it must've taken immense strength to create such a fortress, even if it was only mud. He waited patiently in the lower area for the Urgals to fill in and surround himself, Lucia, and Kagraign. What are you doing? Kagraign asked. "Just wait, you'll see." was Wil's reply. He walked up to the Kull captain that was charging. "Thrysta" he murmured. The captain tried to resist the push, but was still hurled back a few yards. Wil walked up to him and placed his boot on the beast's chest and his blade on its throat. "Tell me, where is the one who commands you?" Wil asked, deflecting the Urgals and Kull that tried attacking him with magic. "I'll never tell you!" the Kull spat in the basic language. "Oh believe me, you'll tell me." Wil said slyly. He pricked the Kull's throat with the tip of his sword. A spot of blood appeared. "Brisingr," Wil said, intending to fuse the fire with the Kull's blood and send the liquid flame throughout its body. The kull screamed as the blood pumped. "Alright! I'll tell you! Just make it stop! Please!" Wil numbed the effects of the fire, though he left it in the Kull's system just in case. "The commander of this army is a young shadeling. At first we didn't believe that he was worth anything, but when I saw him slit Slahthgor's throat with his bare hands well, I knew he was to be respected." The Kull said. "He is about your size, for the boy he was had been your age exactly." the Kull continued. With that, Wil figured the Kull was done. A fourteen year old shade? Is that even possible? Well, Zantya is a shade possessing a seventeen year old, so I guess it's possible. Wil thought. He immediately set out on Kagraign to look for this shade. It wasn't long before a hole blown in the mud wall alerted Wil to his presence. Wil flew Kagraign as fast as he could to the breach and saw the boy. He was black haired. His eyes, Wil could see from above, were blood-red. Now, I’m going to do something stupid. Wil told Kagraign. He jumped from Kagraign's back. Falling is almost as thrilling as flying. he thought. "Thrysta!" he yelled, before hitting the ground. His fall was slowed and he landed softly on his feet. He looked to the boy, who had stopped to watch him fall. "Well, well, well, what do we have here?" Wil asked. "Your enemy, at the moment." was the boy's sharp tongued answer. Wil drew Mor'ranr, which took on a deadly green glow. Wil slashed at the boy. His attack was easily parried. The boy's Kull guards ran toward Wil. "Stay back! This fool is mine!" the boy hissed. Wil saw the guards back up, making a circle. He struck at the boy again, who again, easily parried the attack. "You'll never defeat me." The boy sneered. "But I have one advantage over you." Wil said calmly. The boy looked confused. Then, almost out of nowhere, Kagraign slammed into the ground behind the boy, carrying Lucia. Wil smiled. "I have a dragon and a partner. Don't you know that all magicians should have a partner to protect them? It's not all about the blade work, though that is the most fun part." Wil said. He assessed the situation. Kagraign was behind the boy with Lucia. Lucia would jump off and attack at the same moment as Wil launched his attack, and Kagraign would assist by slashing to catch the boy off guard before hand. It was a sound plan, right?
Before Wil could do anything Zantya slid to the ground. She transformed into wearing a blood red satin dress. Her red hair in an up do. She looked magnificently beautiful. " Ahhhh. Young Hec. How nice of you to join in my battle." She said with a sneer. “You are young. Shouldn’t your mother still be watching you?" She asked.
Cassiopeia was confused, she slowly lifted herself up and found herself in shadows. The sounds of battle drowned my thoughts but i couldn't help that. I lifted myself up painful inch by painful inch. She had no idea how it had happened but she must have blacked out.
Faefnir felt the presence of another. She appeared to be in the dungeon of the fortress that the Urgals were coming from. He called upon the White Stag. My friend, please come the camp quickly. When Faefnir landed, the White Stag was already there. His white coat and antlers were blemished red with the blood of the men he impaled. There is a girl, Cassiopeia that is in the dungeon of that fortress. Go in there and retrieve her. Bring her back to the camp. The Stag acknowledged this command with a nod of his head, then sped off towards the fortress, into the heart of the beast.
Eriel saw the wall being conjured, she marveled at Reb's energy reserves. Trying to encircle such an army after casting so many spells would've left her breathless and gasping for air despite her talent. She spoke to herself, "Hm.... I wonder...." Then turned her attention to Emrhyst, "Emrhyst, add some red to that deep shade of black Kay??" ‘Whatever you say..." Out of her maw came a great torrent of flame, further adding to the damage already inflicted by Stargazer. Just then, a consciousness touched Eriel's mind, "Emrhyst, stay here for a while, do whatever damage you can, there's a prisoner in the fortress dungeon who needs to be rescued. With that, she sped off in the direction of the castle. When she reached the dungeons, she saw the White Stag fighting for his life, it had been wounded in many places and was in danger of collapsing. Eriel lost no time; she plunged into the fray, fighting the soldiers with inhuman speed and strength. She parried a blow from a captain and sliced his wrist; she left him there and finished off the remaining soldiers. Then, she asked him in the gentlest tone she could muster, "Tell me where the girl is." He replied with unexpected calm, "Why should I??" Eriel thought to herself, "Obviously he doesn't think I'd dare to torture him..." She spoke again, this time with more authority, "Speak or I’ll make you, i don't want to torture but if i must, I will." The man started to tremble, but showed no sign of giving way. "Very well then..." She removed his breastplate, took out her dagger and started to carve pictures on his chest. He screamed in agony, Eriel had to use all her strength to stop herself from shedding tears of regret. He finally gave way and said, "Fine!! I'll tell you, just don't hurt me anymore!" "Well that's better." With her mind, she told him, "I wish i didn't have to do that.... It would've been so much nicer if you had just given in." The man looked at her in amazement; in his eyes were admiration and respect. He told her everything, even the weakness of the shade commander. "Thank you" Eriel quickly healed his wounds and let him go, she knew that he wouldn't go back to Galbatorix after receiving such kindness, "Oh no! I forgot all about the poor stag!" She ran back to the stag, with her mind, she told him, "I'm sorry my friend, i shouldn't have forgotten you. Just wait a little more, the girl's just next door". She unlocked the cell door and after exchanging a few pleasantries She teleported all of them to the armory, where they geared themselves in armor and teleported all of them back to the campsite, where Eriel began treating the stag's wounds while telling Faefnir about the encounter with the captain and the weakness of the shade-boy.
"You were only just sixteen when you began your journey, princess.”Nysia said amused.
"I hate flying!" Marox growled from behind Sloane. She gripped the saddle and her bristled fur looked awful. "Tigers weren't meant to fly!"
Mage howled in delight. "Look!" he barked. Morda was sliding into the forest.
"What is she doing?" Sloane muttered. "She'll have to wait. We have to help our friends!" Nysia roared and plunged toward the ground.
Sloane saw a mass of Kull and jumped into their ranks. Mage leaped down next to her.
"Marox!" howled the wolf. "Come on!"
Sloane laughed. "Let's go!" She landed in the mass of monsters, sword in hand. She turned cutting down the enemies behind her and then worked on the line in front of her. Wil, I'm here.
Yeah, but you're way over there while I'm fighting for my life. Wil told Sloane as he parried an attack from the shade-boy. "Thrysta," he said, pushing the boy back to gain his breath. "What did you say his name was, Zantya? Hector? Well, Hector; I've seen what you can do. Now it's your turn to see my full power." Wil melded minds with Kagraign and attacked the boy. He slashed, stabbed, parried, and struck the boy from all angles. The boy fell to the ground, bleeding black shade's blood. Faefnir, you said the boy's weakness is an all out attack from every side? Wil thought. He'd heard the message just before he started his own attack on the boy. He stepped back, taking the time he could to think of a spell. He recited the spell and seven copies of himself surrounded the boy. As the boy looked around, Wil and all his copies attacked, destroying the shade. As he stood there, Wil saw the boy's eyes change. The blood coming out of his wounds turned red. "Waise heill" Wil said. The boy's wounds were healed. The boy looked at Wil with shining green eyes. "Thank you, you saved me from Hell." The boy said, "But I must kill you now, for you did just kill my best friend." The boy attacked Wil, who parried it and knocked him to the ground. "Peace. You are free to find new friends. Look to a winged companion, if possible, for they are the best friends you could ever have." Wil said. The boy ran off as the Urgals and Kull were released from their spell. Wil walked up to an Urgal commander. "Peace, brother Urgal. I mean you no harm. Your men were forced to fight us few soldiers by one of Galbatorix' commanders. Please, join us to relinquish the king of his throne. You will get land, food, and freedom for your wives and children inside the kingdom for your help." Wil promised. He knew the Urgal was thinking about it. As he waited for the answer, Wil fought off oncoming crimson hued soldiers.
Sloane sighed. "It was just getting fun, too." Mage barked with laughter.
"Look at Marox!" he wailed. The tiger was standing with bristling, wet fur.
"Ugh! Water!" she spat. Sloane shook her head.
"Wil! Lucia!" she yelled, waving her hands over her head. "Kagraign", she said, bowing. She looked at the Urgal.
Something told her not to insult the creature nor to attack it. "Why should we help you?" it asked Wil. "How do we know that you won't imprison us as well? How can we be certain, human? You have many forces. As do we!" It pounded a hand on its chest. "So?"
What is this?, Sloane asked Wil.
Faefnir saw what had occurred at the battle. With the Shade destroyed, the Urgals were now at peace. Very soon afterwards, a young boy with green eyes approached him. Faefnir trembled a little bit as the boy touched his side. He eyed the child, and then spoke to him. I'm very sorry young one. You desire a dragon to ride, but I cannot give you what you seek. For I am old and have no desire for a Rider. But I shall tell you where you may find an egg that Galbatorix does not possess. Just follow these directions closely...
As the White Stag ran through the corridors towards the dungeons, he heard and saw many things, all of which he reported to Faefnir. But just as he got close to the girl's location, he heard something that may turn the tide of battle. Faefnir, Galbatorix and Shruikan are still here! They are at perfect health and they have millions of troops gathered here! I strongly suggest that you get everyone out of there! He observed the fallen Rider and dragon for a few minutes, then proceeded to the dungeon. He kicked in the door and saw the girl for the first time.
:"Vel eïnradhin iet ai Shur'tugal." Wil said, placing his fist on his heart. The urgal still eyed him suspiciously. He was a shaman chief, so he understood that the ancient language is as binding as the link between rider and dragon. "Fine, we will join your ranks. If you were to become leader of Alagaesia, we would honor and respect you forever." The urgal said. "Oh, I don't think I would be suited for that. If they did ask, I would decline, because power corrupts the mind. Look at what happened to Galbatorix." Wil replied. Just then, Wil heard a deafening screech as Galbatorix burst through the ground on Shruikan. After he flew out, a million or more troops flooded out. They just kept coming. Wil looked to the urgal chief, nodded, and yelled a fierce war cry. He rushed toward the men, drew Mor'ranr, and struck one down. Almost immediately after being struck, the man's mutilated body re-formed and he came at Wil again. Wil opened his mind to all his allies, Sloane, Faefnir, Star, Reb, Eriel, everyone, the urgals are no longer enemies! Millions of soldiers, led by a healed Galbatorix, have flooded out of nowhere! And what's worse, their undead soldiers! Please, you have to get over here and help us! He heard a roar as Kagraign swooped down, chomped a soldier in his maw, and swept his tail around to knock twenty more back.
“Yes his name is Hector. He is in love with Leth." Zantya said rolling her eyes. “My sister is odd, and evil." She added then transformed back into battle clothes and then the wall dropped slamming the army into the ground.

Dezlen I hope you're safe..., Sloane thought.
"Wil! Where do you need me?" Sloane yelled. The ground trembled. Gritting her teeth, she pulled the rocks together and tried to steady them. A crack split open and Sloane slid over the edge. She gripped the ground hard.
Sloane! Nysia, Marox, and Mage raced toward her. Mage shifted and took on his Were appearance. He bent and clutched Sloane's arm with a furred hand.
"Careful, Princess", he whispered. Sloane fell on the ground and the crack grew. "I do wish our friends were here."
"Me too", Sloane agreed. Her other allies seemed to disappear into the ranks of Urgals and Soldiers.

She watched Nysia roar and struggle against her chains. Fire raged around her. She limped on a broken leg. Her eyes were clouded with pain and tears. "Mother! Where are you?" She fell and hit her head. "I'm s-sorry"
Darkness succumbed to her. A hand reached out and pulled her up. She looked up at a kind face. "Lets go, Sloane. Are you ready?"

Sloane looked out at the battle. "I lost him...To a Soldier..." She drew her sword. "Never again!" she cried, plunging into the Soldiers, hacking and slashing. Fury and Rage filled her body, she felt invincible. Her eyes gleamed with bloody-glee and tears.
“We have Reb back! We must go." Star Gazer said, just as Leth appeared before Zantya.
“Dear sister, you know you can't hide from me for long. If you do, then all of your friends shall die." She said and black chains covered every one of the people who she had fought beside. Zantya was seething with anger at that point and drew her sword.
" Father was right to outcast you." Zantya said and parried a blow from the large blade. Leth was strong, and the blow knocked Zantya off balance, and Leth took that chance to swing, but her blow never landed because ice slammed into her chest, and she hit the ground with a 'thud'.
“If you wanted to play magic, then you should have just said so." Leth commented and a black fog encased Zantya, making her gag, and gasp for breath. Star Gazer lunged in the air, but was held suspended there by Leth.
In her tent, Eriel suddenly felt an extremely powerful presence fighting with Zantya. And then, she was covered in black chains. She looked at Emrhyst and then at the stag. Both seemed to say, "Let's help." Eriel countered the spell with the help of both stag and dragon. "Well then, are you ready for this?" "Ready as i'll ever be." Eriel stripped off the armor and donned the simple green uniform of an elf ranger. "She mounted Emrhyst and flew off into the fray, her cloak flying behind her, and the white stag before her.

Faefnir saw the chains around him. He lazily countered it with an ice breathe, and then shattered it. Then, he saw everyone except Zantya, Eriel, Emrhyst and the stag in chains, at the mercy of the undead army. He started to get angry; he let out such a roar the whole battle stopped. Then, he turned to Leth, "Let them go." He said in a thundering voice.
As much as Zantya hated doing this, a fire shield shot up around she and her sister. Keeping them from view. “Everyone stay out of this." She shouted angrily
Sloane growled and struggled against the chains. Princess! Sloane didn't recognize the voice. Nysia roared and tensed her muscles, breaking the chains. She ripped at Marox's and she helped Mage.
"Go!" Sloane yelled to her companions. "Help Wil! I'll be fine!"
She closed her eyes and reached out to Fyrius. He set a flaming paw on the chains and they broke away. She fell forward and saw the battle around her thinning. She marveled at the large Firey shield, awed by its power. She knew better than to defy Zantya. It was her battle.
She ran to a group of Urgals that were surrounded by soldiers. She blasted blue fire from her palm and cut through the other soldiers. "Help the others!" Sloane barked at the Urgals. They all looked at her with defiance, but ran off anyway. Nysia! Be ready!
Something is coming! Look!, growled the Dragoness. Sloane looked up. The trees of the forest were bent by wind. Wing beats. Out of the leafy canopy a Dragon hurtled toward her.
It was grey. Never before had she seen a grey Dragon. Silver, but never grey. Its red eyes were worried and full of power. Without yielding it flew right at Sloane.
She gasped, dropping her sword. She covered her head with her arms and bent against the wind. A wave of dust swept over her and many thoughts probed at her mind. The pain was unbearable. She fell as the Dragon's shield met her own.
She lay still in the dust, watching the beast with pained eyes. As it landed, she fell into Darkness.
Eriel covered her eyes as the dust flew at her, each hit felt like a stab wound. Then, she saw one small speck flying towards her scar. Everything moved in slow motion, she winced as it hit her. She shut her eyes and tried to block out the pain. "Eriel! Sloane is unconscious!" With unspoken consent Emrhyst landed near her, the force created when she landed sent Eriel's cape flying. Eriel's eyes turned dark green when she saw the gray dragon pick Sloane up and carry her off into the castle. "Emrhyst, we're going after her."
Sloane woke and looked down at the ground. No! Put me down!, she screamed to the Dragon.
You're in danger! The Dragon's voice was young, but firm.
Who are you?
My name is Fury. I came all the way from Varisia to help you, Princess, the Dragon explained. Sloane felt crushed in the Dragon's tiny claws.
This is very uncomfortable, she said.
Climb on my back then. THe Dragon's claws opened a bit to let Sloane out, she climbed up the Dragon's leg and onto her back.
You need to turn around!, Sloane yelled. Feeling Eriel very close and thinking of Wil and Reb and the others.
No! You must stay away! You are in danger!
Of what?!
A dark force surrounds you!
Nysia!, Sloane called. She got a very weak response. She's hurt!
Fury tensed and flew faster. Sloane banged on her side.
"Let me go!" she screamed out loud.

Eriel established a mental connection with the dragon, "Let her go or i'll slay you, dragon or not." Eriel said, her eyes gradually turning darker, her cloak flew wildly as Emrhyst gained speed, the bells on the saddle jingled. She waited for the dragon's reply. Within her mind she told Emrhyst, "I'm going to shoot if he does not let her go in five seconds." She drew her bow, fitted an arrow to the string and waited.


Faefnir roared with anger as he heard the sloane scream. He roared out his thoughts, "Traitor! Let her go!" He suddenly gained speed, and released a great torrent of ice, pinning one of the dragon's wings to his side.
Leth lunged at Zanty and stabbed her sister in the side, but recieved a dagger in the gut as well. Leth pulled it free and stabbed Zantya back. Zantya screamed loudly as the pain hit her. She watched as Leth pulled her sword back and blood spread across her stomach. She took one last swing and cut Leth's throat. Her sister disapeared and the sheild went with her. Zantya lay on the ground writhing in pain.
Meanwhile, Wil jumped on Kagraign, pulling Lucia up with him. "Let's go get Galbatorix!" he shouted. Kagraign shot up into the air. He flew as high as he dared. Suddenly, he turned back toward the earth, plummeting toward Galbatorix from above. At the last minute, Kagraign pulled out of the dive. Wil hurled off of him onto Shruikan, behind Galbatorix. Before Galbatorix could react, Wil pulled his dagger out of his boot and drove it into Galbatorix' ribcage, just below his heart. "To my favorite liar," Wil whispered, before jumping back onto Kagraign and flying back to the land battle.
The dragon started to lose its sense of flight and plumeted towards the earth. Emrhyst folded her wings and started to fall. As she got nearer, Eriel shouted out," Get onto her tail and climb!" The grey dragon struggled against gravity and tried to slow the fall. "Oh no..." Eriel knew what would happen if he crashed. "Reisa!" The Dragon stood in the air, unable to move. Eriel blinked as the energy was consumed, though it was quickly replaced by the reserves in the sapphire in her sword's hilt. Faefnir and Emrhyst stopped beside the dragon, waiting for its explanation.
"Don't hurt her!" Sloane yelled at Fury. The grey Dragoness growled.
Princess...
"Let me go! You don't act like a Varisian Dragon."
Sloane heard a roar. She turned and saw Morda flying toward Emrhyst. "No!" Sloane cried. She struggled free of Fury's grip and fell. Nysia flew under her, just in the nick of time. She was grunting and her wing was bleeding. "Nysia...no..." Morda was flying toward Fury.
Why, Sloane? She is a Seer... Then they both disappeared.
Nysia landed heavily on the ground.
"Eriel!" Sloane ran toward the Elf. "Thank you. I don't know what happened. The Red Dragon, Morda, is a good friend of mine. The grey one I have never seen before...Nysia is hurt." She bowed her head and walked back to Nysia. Her wing was crumpled and bleeding.
Star Gazer landed by her fallen rider and sniffed Reb. Her rider would be fine for now. She picked her up and put her on her back and bared her teeth at the oncoming urgals. Star Gazer melded minds with Star Gazer and black fire shout out from her maw and sprang into the air like a wildfire. Songar ran to Star Gazer's side and let the dragon lower Zantya onto his back. On contact his mane and tail turned to flames that flickered into the sky. The wolves launched an attack at the urgals as well. The group of them were a good team.