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Saphira arrived overhead the ship moments later. She saw Eragon look up, waving to her as he made his way to the center of the main deck. She circled twice before spiraling down and then, fluttering her wings, reared into a soft landing on the deck. The ship creaked and swayed as she landed, sinking slightly into the river with the added weight. She folded her wings, brought them to her side then turned to face Eragon who was just walking up.

Y_ou weren't kidding when you said that you'd hasten you effort!_

Of course not! You needed me here fast and so, here I am!

Saphira crouched on the deck then relaxed onto her flank, stretching her hind legs out to one side. As she lay down she began to feel how exhausted she was and let out a deep yawn.

Looks like I'm not the only one who's tired. Eragon observed.

Aye, I suppose I am. I guess I just hadn't noticed until now. Saphira replied, bringing her head level with his.

He reached out and gently rubbed the scales along her forehead with the palm of one hand. Well, thank you for getting here so quickly. Any longer and I thought I was going to collapse from exhaustion. Eragon replied, leaning to touch his forehead against her snout. Saphira pulled her head back slightly and gave him a gentle lick on the cheek then lifted her wing, gently wrapped him round the waist with her tail, picked him up and laid him down next to her on the deck. _In that case we'd better bed down for the night. S_he replied, craning her head round to face him.

I'm not that tired! Eragon protested while nestling against her warm belly. I could have made it to your side by myself.

I'm sure that's true but now there's no need. You already are by my side. A simple thank you will do. Saphira calmly replied; her maw parted in a toothy grin.

Eragon's eyes squinted, a look of mild suspicion on his face. You seem to be in a good mood all of a sudden. Are you sure nothing happened on your flight?

Holding her smile Saphira cocked her head slightly. Moving her gaze to one side she replied with a gentle nod. Oh, quite sure. I guess I just needed some time to think.

Eragon regarded her with narrowed eyes a moment longer then replied. Uh, huh. Well ... Then dismissed it and relaxed ... I guess ... I did too. Oh, and thank you.

Following a brief silence Eragon furrowed is brow, remembering the whisper he'd heard only moments earlier, then asked. T_his may sound like an odd question but did you hear something on the way back?_

Like what? Saphira asked, moving her eyes to look at him.

Eragon looked down and shrugged. I don't know. Like a whisper I guess.

Mmmm ... no. Not that I know of. Why, did you?

Eragon looked up at her. Then, taking a moment to consider his answer, replied. Aye ... at least I think so. I thought I heard a faint whisper, just before I saw you flying overhead.

Hmmm ... that's interesting. Did you happen to hear what it said?

Aye, it sounded like ... 'It is time'.

Both sat in silence, gazing into one another's eyes, as if each were expecting the other to offer more on the matter. After several moments Eragon huffed. Bah! Then closed his eyes and folded his arms over his chest while resting his head against Saphira's belly. I must be hearing things. Exhaustion must be playing tricks on my mind.

Saphira hummed softly. Hmmm ... p_erhaps._ She thought, smiling over the source of the alleged whisper.

Still watching, Saphira lay her head down close to him then rested her wing over them, covering him and her head. A faint glow emanated from the membrane as the moon light filtered through, allowing her to watch Eragon as he nestled down to rest. Still humming she breathed a deep sigh of contentment. How beautiful you are my Eragon, my mate. She thought.

Her smile relaxed as she considered the manner in which to court him. Eragon was not a dragon leaving her with a slight problem; she did not wish to withhold her new found feelings towards him. Moreover, in order to win him as her mate she would need to prepare him, albeit gently. Courting him was the most sensible option; however, she could not express it the way she would towards a male dragon. Draconic courtship customs were often brutally aggressive and abrupt. The end result of her expression in such a fashion could leave Eragon injured, despite the added sturdiness of his elven form. Of course Eragon was not entirely elven. While his physical form was that of an elf he still possessed the mind of a human, leaving his human memories and way of thinking intact; still responsive to their customs and behaviors, including those pertaining to courtship. This helped in her decision concerning how to court him; however, she knew little about human courtship customs, save for the few she'd learned while casually observing couples during hers and Eragon's time with the Varden, or between Roran and Katrina. Despite this she was determined to attempt anyway. How hard can it possibly be? She reasoned while musing over memories of her past observations until she found among them a custom that appealed to her.

Perfect! She thought, settling on one in particular. It was a custom that involved signing love songs, one commonly practiced among courting humans. She'd observed it frequently while amongst the Varden, especially following a victorious battle.

A custom engaged by dragons too. She thought, smiling inwardly at the small similarity between their races.

In human courtship the love song was usually initiated by the male, but not always. In draconic custom; however, it is always the female who initiates it, the male, if interested, joining in soon after. Although he was not a dragon Saphira saw no reason why she could not sing to her 'mate', so began to think of a love song that would be fitting for Eragon. While searching she came upon a memory buried deep within her ancestral memories. The memory was of a love song her dam often crooned to her sire long ago. The song possessed no words as it was intended to be shared among dragons alone; however, Saphira considered it for a moment then reasoned, Why not?, and so began to croon it to him.

It was a soft melody containing a rich mixture of high, medium and low pitched tones held with varying duration and intensity. An ancient love song shared among numerous generations as far back as she could remember. Although it possessed no words the tones resonated in a manner conveying a level of deep love and intimacy far surpassing any physical sensation, as if it spoke to the very depths of one's soul. Eragon listened intently, becoming captivated by it. The tones resonated throughout his entire body as if speaking to every member - every cell - to the very depths of his innermost being. Though it appeared innocent enough a deep sense of love welled in his heart for Saphira. It was strong as if they'd just been reunited after a long separation. He likened it to the love he'd felt for her when they were reunited upon his return from Helgrind or when she'd joined him in Farthen Dur. But this time its intensity seemed stronger as if in response to a separation that spanned years instead of days or weeks. After a few moments he breathed a deep sigh of contentment then commented. That's a wonderful melody. Where did you learn it?

It's one that my dam often crooned long ago.

Eragon opened his eyes and looked at Saphira with raised brows. Really? How come I've never heard you croon it before?

Seeing no need to reveal the song's nature to him she replied. Oh, I don't know. I suppose I was just never in the right ... mood?

Eragon shook his head and smiled, Sometimes you can be quite odd Saphira, t_hen closed his eyes and got comfortable again. _In any case I like it. I'm glad you decided to share it.

Saphira crooned louder emphasizing her delight in the compliment. After awhile the melody lulled Eragon into his waking dreams, but just before slipping into them he began to hum the sweet melody, matching the pitch and tone of Saphira's with remarkable precision.

Saphira went silent, startled by the unexpected gesture. Lifting her head slightly she looked at Eragon as he hummed. She stared at him in silent regard, a quizzical expression on her face, wondering if he was even aware of the significance in what he was doing. Her song was a draconic love song, occasionally used to attract a potential mate, or to strengthen the bond between existing mates. It was never intended for human ears. Consequently she would never expect one to understand it, let alone respond to it. And yet here he was crooning it as she had, joining in as if in keeping with the draconic courtship custom.

Bah! He can't possibly realize what he's doing. She thought, dismissing the notion with a snort. Still watching him she laid her head down, listening in silence as Eragon continued to croon. She found it oddly soothing and so became relaxed, her eyelids suddenly heavy. She drifted off to sleep a moment later; welcoming whatever dreams may come, while Eragon's crooning grew softer until the only sounds remaining were the gentle rustling of the river and soft chirring of cricket-like-insects in the distance.

---

It was late morning by the time Eragon woke. During the night he'd slipped from resting against Saphira's belly to lying flat on his back. As he opened his eyes he could see the soft blue membrane of Saphira's wing, a network of veins interlacing it, glowing with a soft blue light as the mid-morning sun shone through it. He stretched his limbs, which had become stiff from sleeping on the deck's hard surface, then sat up, propping upon arms outstretched behind him. He faced Saphira's head which was also under the canopy of her wing, her nostrils flaring and contracting with the steady rhythm of her breathing; the slow, steady exchange signaling that she was still asleep. Eragon looked at her, thinking it odd that she'd chosen to sleep with her head in such a manner. In all the times they'd slept together he couldn't remember a single instance prior where she'd done so. With a shrug he reasoned that perhaps she simply did it for comfort and reassurance. He couldn't blame her, considering the unease that'd accompanied their recent departure. Leaning forward he reached up and stroked Saphira's forehead with one of his hands, gently massaging the scales between her eyes. He continued for several moments until she began to stir, her eye's slowly opening.

Good morning sleepy head. I take it you slept well? Eragon inquired, a broad smile forming on his face.

Saphira shifted slightly, leaning her head into his hand, and then let out a contented rumble. She snorted expelling a rush of air through her nostrils then breathed in deeply catching his scent, giving her pause. His scent somehow seemed different than the night before. To be certain she lifted her head bringing it closer to him then breathed again, taking in another sample. Aye, it was indeed different.

Remembering Eragon's inquiry she replied. Good morning little ... er ... Eragon. Aye, I slept very well. And you?

Eragon looked at her quizzically. What was that?

What was what? She asked.

You started to address me as 'little one' then stopped mid-sentence to address me by name. Why? He replied.

Am I not allowed to address you by name if I choose? Saphira calmly inquired, unwilling to divulge her reasons.

Eragon slowly removed his hand then shrugged. Well ... Aye, I suppose. I guess I'd simply gotten used to being addressed as 'little one'. It almost seems out of place for you to address me as anything but, save for the times when you're angry with me. You ... you're not angry with me. Are you?

Of course not! Why would I be?

Eragon didn't really believe she'd any reason to be angry with him. In fact it wasn't fear of anger that spurred his question at all. Instead her sudden shift in address left him uneasy, serving as a subtle reminder that something was different between them, something he simply couldn't place. Truth be told she'd always addressed him as one or the other, but never had she started with one only to shift to the other mid-sentence. It was a subtle difference in her mannerism, aye, but given his newly heightened awareness he'd construed it as something significant.

Maybe it's nothing. He thought. Perhaps I'm just overreacting.

Never mind, it's nothing. I suppose I'm just over thinking the matter.

Saphira narrowed her eyes slightly, wondering what could have spurred such an odd question. Then she relaxed and observed. You smell different.

Say again? Eragon chuckled, brows raised.

You smell different than before. Saphira replied, laying her head back down.

Really? Well I hope that's not a bad thing. What do I smell like?

Mmmm ... well y_ou still smell like an elf just not quite so much now. I also noticed another faint scent mingled with your elven one, but I'm not sure what it is. It's not human and seems oddly familiar. Mmmm ... I just can't place it._

Hmmm ... perhaps I just need to bathe. Oh, and to answer your question, I rested just fine. Other than some mild muscle stiffness from lying on this hard deck. Eragon replied, rapping the deck several times with the back of a clenched fist.

In response Saphira raised her wing then lifted her head and said. Perhaps you're right. I know just the thing to get rid of that foreign scent ... and work out the stiffness in those muscles.

Eragon stood, shielding his eyes from the bright sunlight, and then stepped out from next to Saphira. Oh really? And what would that be?

Saphira rose, stretching her wings above her head. Fancy a swim? She replied; her maw parted slightly in a grin.

Eragon scratched his chin, taking a moment to consider the proposal. I think that's ... a great idea! He said with a broad smile. Let me fetch your saddle first!

Why don't we go without the saddle today?

You mean, ride you bare-back? Eragon inquired, brows raised in surprise.

Aye, we won't go far. I think your legs will be safe from injury.

Eragon furrowed his brow in thought. A moment later he said. I suppose we can do that, as long as it's not too far. But be gentle. He cautioned_. Remember what happened the last time I rode you bare-back._

Don't worry I will.

Eragon leapt astride her as Saphira crouched, readying herself for flight. Just then Boldhgarm walked up. "Shadeslayer, Brightscales, good morning. Did you rest well?"

"Aye, I believe we did." Eragon replied. "Saphira and I are going for a swim. We'll be back after a while."

Boldhgarm inclined his head in a gentle nod. "Then until your return."

Eragon leaned forward, wrapping his arms round Saphira's neck, bracing himself. With a leap, and thrust of her wings, she took flight into the mid-morning air, the clear blue sky beckoning them. Some distance above Saphira leveled off as Eragon threw his arms above his head, releasing an excited shout, "Woooo Hoooo!", then took hold of the spike at the base of her neck.

That was amazing! I'd almost forgotten how exhilarating flying with you can be. It seems so long since we last indulged in it!

Saphira released a jubilant roar in response then began her descent towards the pristine water of the river below. Hold on!

Eragon wrapped his arms round her neck in a tight hug. Moments later Saphira cropped her wings, diving into the river with a big splash, then swam a short distance before surfacing with Eragon still astride her. The water was cool and crisp leaving them both with a feeling of exhilaration. Eragon shook his head causing droplets of water to fly off his wet strands of hair then jumped off Saphira, diving under the water only to resurface a short distance from her side. Saphira came about and waded up to Eragon.

This was a great idea! The water is prefect! What a wonderful way to start the day! Don't you agree?

Of course! I suggested it remember? Besides my scales were looking a little dull and dirty. It was about time I cleaned them.

They spent the remainder of the morning frolicking in the cool water. Afterwards Eragon waded up to Saphira, climbed astride her and then, with several flaps of her wings, she took flight once more, banking round in a return flight to the ship.

---

Over the next several days the weather had been clear and favorable. Although they encountered brief bends in the river it showed no end in their immediate future. During that time it became somewhat of a ritual for them, sleeping on the deck under the moon and stars. Each night Saphira would sing her love song to Eragon, lulling him into his waking dreams. To her delight he'd join in, never failing to match her in tone and pitch. She still believed he'd no idea of what he was doing, but found it soothing all the same, each time coaxing her into a dream-filled sleep. The following day they would rise to the mid-morning sun. She would take flight with Eragon astride her bare-back then dive into the river where they spent the morning swimming and frolicking in the cool water. Following their morning swims Saphira flew them back to the ship where Eragon spent the remainder of each day talking with the elves, Umaroth or Glaedr, reading one of his books, practicing his spells or sparing with Boldhgarm. Saphira, on the other hand, took to napping in the afternoon sun, hunting or taking short patrol flights.

On the day following their first morning swim Saphira decided to consult Umaroth, Glaedr and the other Eldunariconcerning her contact with the unknown consciousness. Rather than try to explain it to them she had simply opened her mind and let them experience the memories of the encounter for themselves. None had any more insight than she concerning the destined partnership of her and Eragon, nor did they have insight into the mysterious consciousness. They did; however, assure her that they would try to do what they could to find out more. Umaroth and Glaedr reluctantly accepted her decision to court Eragon, each believing it folly to attempt such without first verifying the prophecy's authenticity or how it would even work between them. Saphira; however, had been adamant about her decision, stating that once she'd made the choice to trust fate she would not deny her feelings, trusting a way would be made for it to work. In the end the pair of Eldunari cautioned her to think before she acted. Glaedr even added.

Y_oungling, heed me well for this is not a game. Keep your affections from getting the better of you. At risk of stating the obvious, Eragon is not a dragon; however, consider him your mate if you must but do not lose yourself to passion or you risk not only losing him as your mate but also as your rider._

On this particular day, following their morning swim, Eragon suggested a different plan. Saphira, w_hy don't you find a bank along the river, so we can make camp to rest and dry off? I'm not quite ready to go back to the ship_.

Sounds good to me!

Saphira flew a short distance further until she found an embankment large enough to accommodate both her and Eragon then landed. Eragon leapt from her back then briefly surveyed the bank. This is perfect! There's even drift wood I can use to make a fire! After a brief silence his stomach rumbled. Now I just need to find something to eat. I'm hungry.

You make a fire. I'll take care of breakfast! Saphira replied, taking flight.

Eragon began to collect from the pieces of drift wood that adorned the embankment and soon had a roaring fire going; built next to a large stone that rested near the river's edge. Saphira returned shortly after with three large fish, one in each claw and one grasped between her jaws. As she landed she dropped the two fish in her claws then walked over to Eragon and dropped the third at his feet. Now this is a proper breakfast! She then walked back to the two others and in a single motion took each between her jaws then swallowed it whole.

Is that going to be enough for you? Eragon asked as he pulled out his knife and began to gut the fish she'd given him.

Enough to sate my hunger for a few hours. Saphira replied, licking her chops.

His fish gutted Eragon affixed it to the end of a slender length of wood and held it over the fire to cook. A short while later the fish was done. Pulling it from the flames Eragon noticed the sudden aroma, causing his mouth to water; the fish still sizzling as he set it aside to cool. When cool enough to eat he peeled back the scaly skin then, taking a piece of the tender white flesh between his fingers, placed it in his mouth and began to chew, savoring the taste. Mmmm ... this is so good, so tender and delectable. Fish makes a fine breakfast!

After his meal Eragon tossed the bones and skin into the river and continued to sit next to the fire, staring into its dancing flames. As he watched the smoke blow away with a gentle breeze his brow furrowed. It occurred to him that he'd not felt troubled in the slightest over gutting the fish, nor in eating its flesh; a behavior contrary to Oromis' teachings during his training in Ellesmera. It left him slightly troubled, serving as yet another reminder that something was now different about him.

Saphira lay crouched a short distance away, looking at him. She began to croon her love song, eliciting a smile from Eragon. His brow relaxed as the dark feeling left him. He looked at her and couldn't help but admire the beauty of her scales as they brightly glistened in the sunlight, each sparkling with an intensity he'd never noticed before. She's so ... beautiful. He thought, looking at her with a sense of awe.

The sight captivated him as if he were staring into a hoard of brilliant blue sapphires crafted just for him. Saphira turned her gaze to the river and Eragon found himself thinking back to the time when he'd comforted her on the Stone of Broken Eggs; the time she'd been hurt over Glaedr's rejection. Shaking his head Eragon came to his senses and then, remembering Glaedr's question the night of their departure, offered.

Saphira, we've not had opportunity to speak concerning Firnen. I was just wondering how you are doing. I know it wasn't easy to leave him and want you to know that I'm here if you need to talk about it.

Saphira stopped crooning then moved her head to look at him, wondering what prompted such a question. After a moment her features softened. That's very sweet of you Eragon, thank you. I'll be fine. No need to worry about me.

Eragon regarded her for a moment, marveling at how easily she'd seemed to get over the loss. I wish I could get over mine as easily as Saphira. He thought. Humph. I suppose being a dragon has its advantages.

With a gentle nod he replied. I see. Well ... I'm sure you'll find another mate one day Saphira. They're bound to be many fine males for you to choose from when the eggs hatch.

Saphira smiled, knowingly. I'm sure you're right Eragon.

That day will come sooner than you realize. And he won't come from among the dragon eggs. She thought, looking back to the river.

Eragon looked back to the fire before him. Both sat in silence for a long while, basking in the warmth of the afternoon sun and presence of each other's company. Saphira shifted slightly, settling into a more comfortable position. Her movement elicited a flash as the sunlight reflected off her scales, catching the attention of Eragon; his eyes drawn to the source of the flash. Without realizing it he found himself unable to pull his gaze from her. He began to regard her as before, marveling at the beauty of her scales, then continued on to study her other prominent features more closely. He noted the subtle arch in her neck, the velvety texture of her wings, the slight curvature in the pair of ivory-colored spikes protruding from her head, and her muscular flanks and curved back adorned with its pearly-white spikes.

S_he really is the fairest of all dragons._ He thought, breathing a sigh of contentment.

A sudden flush followed. His face went hot as a tingling sensation stirred in his loins. The feeling caught him so off guard that he'd jolted upright, losing his balance, sending him toppling over the opposite side of the stone upon which he sat. He landed on the ground with a thud and lay a moment, dazed, thinking to himself.

Whoa! What ... wh-where did that come from?

It was true. As far as dragons were concerned he considered Saphira's beauty beyond compare. A fact, he'd later concluded, that only served to puff her sense of vanity. Consequently he rarely made open mention to her about it. In spite of his admiration he could recount no time prior that he'd taken such an interest in her features. Moreover, the sudden flush he'd experienced was much more than simple admiration, it was more akin to what he could only describe as ... attraction? The feeling grossly disturbed him.

Are you alright? Saphira asked with mild amusement.

Eragon blinked several times and then, pressing his lips, gathered himself and got up off the ground. He quickly brushed the sand from his tunic and trousers then moved to resume his former position upon the stone. He kept his attention on the fire so as to avert her gaze, feeling his cheeks warm from embarrassment. He hoped she hadn't noticed.

Aye, I ... I'm fine. He sheepishly replied.

Despite his hopes Saphira had noticed. It was hard to miss the surge over their connection, especially when he hadn't the time to bar his thoughts from her. She'd abruptly stopped her humming as mild surprise caught her then calmed and moved her head to look at him just as he toppled off the stone.

Are you sure? Has something troubled you? She asked, still amused.

No ... No I'm fine. Just a start, that's all. Nothing serious. Can we just forget about it please?

She looked at him a moment longer then relaxed, smiled and turned her attention back to the river. She didn't quite understand where the sudden flush had come from, but relished in it all the same.

Hmmm ... this might be easier than I thought.

After a time Eragon's sense of awkwardness got the better of him. He stretched his arms over his head then broke the silence inquiring.

Are you ready to go back to the ship Saphira?

Saphira looked at him just as he was bringing his arms back down. So soon? It's so ... peaceful. I thought we might spend the entire day out here. Didn't you? She replied, a mischievous gleam in her eyes.

Uh ... well ... we could. I mean I'd like to ... but ... but ... I'm really eager to get back to ... back to ... the book I was reading yesterday. Eragon replied, averting his gaze.

Amused at his apparent awkwardness Saphira replied. Hmmm ... in that case I suppose we should head back. After all, I don't want to keep you from such an engaging book. It's not as if there's anything here to catch your interest ... is there?

Eragon shot her a quick glance; eyes widened, then looked back at the fire and gulped. No, no. Uh ... nothing that I can see.

Saphira watched him expectantly for a moment until he started to fidget. Seeing no need for him to endure further discomfort she said. Perhaps you'll think to bring your book with you next time, that way we can spend more time together ... alone.

Uh ... I'll ... consider it. Fair enough?

Mmmm ... f_air enough._

Eragon jumped up then swiftly extinguished the fire. Moments later he climbed astride Saphira, taking hold of the spike at the base of her neck. Once he was settled Saphira spread her wings then leapt into the air, banking round towards the ship. After a brief flight they arrived and, as before, Saphira circled twice overhead before spiraling down to gently land upon the deck. Eragon dismounted, still feeling a little awkward, and then turned to face her. S ... So what are your plans for the rest of the day?

Saphira smiled. I think I'll go for another hunt ... and perhaps do some ... exploring.

Sounds ... great! I'll just ... go get my book. See you when you get back.

Saphira spread her wings and leapt into the air while Eragon retreated to his cabin to fetch the book he'd planned to read.

---

As she gently glided over the river Saphira began to muse on Eragon's earlier brush of attraction towards her. She'd not expected it from him, at least not so soon, and wondered what might have triggered it. She was pleased none the less. Although the prophecy hadn't alluded to it she reasoned he must be going through a similar period of awaking, perhaps from feelings that lay dormant within him; however, for him the awaking seemed to progress much slower. Slow or not she'd no doubt his feelings would continue to surface, increasing in strength and frequency as time went on. This spurred her confidence concerning her decision to court him.

Whatever fate has planned its clearly working in Eragon. She thought, excitement welling in her.

Not wishing to waste the opportunity she immediately began considering a way to augment her earlier courtship efforts, choosing a more direct approach; a fitting response to his 'interest', intentional or not.

While musing over her memories she chanced upon another custom she'd occasionally observed among courting humans. A custom engaged by females used mainly to express interest in a male's advances. At the time she'd found the behavior odd, thinking a more direct approach would serve them better. Now; however, Saphira found herself intrigued by the idea, curious as to the reaction it might elicit from Eragon.

Hmmm ... this might do just the trick. She thought. How can Eragon possibly resist the wares of a female as beautiful as me?

The custom involved moving certain muscles in a way that she was not accustom to. She would need to allow time for practice before she could engage it. She decided that first she'd catch her meal then find a bank some distance away from the ship to eat and then practice, concluding the location must be far enough to keep her at the threshold of her connection with Eragon; so as to practice while leaving him unawares. Having devised her plan Saphira promptly dove into the river emerging shortly after with two large fish between her jaws. She then set out for a distant and secluded river bank where she could eat her meal, then practice.

---

By late afternoon Saphira arrived back at the ship. She'd become confident that she could mimic the new maneuver flawlessly, having spent several hours practicing it. She was eager to try it out. To her delight she did not have to wait long. Eragon was already on the deck, alone near the bow, sitting in the afternoon sun, clearly interested in a piece of reading from one of the books Jeod had given him. Saphira sauntered up to him then turned about, sauntering back the way she'd come. She flicked the book with the tip of her tail causing Eragon to peek over its top to discover the source of the disturbance. Having gotten his attention Saphira emphasized her hips, swaying them side to side along with her tail. In a burst of inspiration she ruffled her scales, augmenting the maneuver with an emphasis of her beauty. After several paces she stopped, craned her neck round, smiling as she winked at him. Despite her best efforts the move had been wart with clumsiness. Consequently it did not have quite the effect she'd planned on.

Eragon had all but forgotten his rush of feeling earlier that morning and so closed the book, set it down beside him then stood with a bewildered look on his face.

Saphira? What ... are you doing? Are you well?

He began to walk towards her. As he approached Saphira wrapped him with her tail, lifted him off the deck bringing him level with her head then pulled him close, giving him another wink. Aye Eragon I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?

For a brief moment Eragon said nothing as he stared at her with raised brows. Attempting to digest his current predicament he raised his arms, looking down at the tail wrapped around his waist. Saphira was acting strange and he wasn't sure if she was serious or if she was simply playing some kind of game to entertain herself. After a moment he lowered his arms then looked at Saphira who welcomed his gaze with another wink. Shaking his head Eragon suddenly cracked a smile. You do realize you're acting as if you've gone completely mad? This is some kind of game right?

Before she could respond Eragon burst into a hearty laugh, unable to contain his amusement as a vision of Saphira's earlier behavior flashed before his eyes. He stopped only a moment to inquire. What exactly do you call that move, The Drunken Dragon?

Saphira's smile faded. She became huffed; this was not the reaction she'd expected. She loosed her grip on Eragon causing him to drop to the deck where he fell to his back then, folding his arms over his belly, continued to laugh heartily.

What's so funny? She protested, coming about to peer down at him.

Eragon summoned a brief pause from his mirth then took a deep breath. Oooo gods ... that was funny! I've not laughed like that in quite awhile. He began. I'm sorry it had to come at your expense Saphira, but ... you are. Do you have any idea how ridiculous you looked? What's gotten into you?

Saphira snorted, looking away from him. Argh! Never mind! Clearly you wouldn't understand!

Eragon continued to laugh for several moments more until his glee subsided, a more sober tone replacing it. Still lying on his back he rested his hands on his chest then looked at Saphira who was now looming over him, eyes fixed expectantly. He could feel agitation emanating from her as if she'd expected another response from him. This left him with the sudden impression that she'd not been playing, that her odd mannerisms stemmed from something else, something she wasn't telling him. He suddenly thought of the question he'd not yet asked her, the question concerning her choice, leaving him with a feeling of fear mixed with anticipation.

Over the past several days he'd grown increasingly agitated over what her answer might be. He'd been trying to decide the proper moment to ask her, but was uncertain now would be the best time. Still there was the matter concerning her odd behavior.

I'm really sorry Saphira, I am. I didn't mean to upset you; however, clearly I have. It's just ... well ... you have to admit ... your behavior was rather odd. Is there something you're not telling me?

Saphira sighed then began to move away from him. No ... I suppose not. Perhaps you're right. I ... I was acting a bit foolish. She paused then continued. You should return to your reading. I'm going to take a nap.

Eragon sighed then, pressing his lips together tightly, sat up. Wait!

Saphira paused. Aye, what is it Eragon?

Gaining up his courage Eragon took a deep breath then spoke. Before you go I've a question that has been nagging me since the night we left. I'm almost afraid to ask but fear I will never be at peace until I know your answer.

Saphira turned to face him. She could see the seriousness on his face and feel the apprehension emanating from him. Following a brief silence she replied. Go ahead Eragon, ask your question.

Eragon took another deep breath, steadying himself. Saphira ... uh ... uh ... wow this is hard.

Saphira reached out with her mind, sending warm, loving feelings over their connection to calm him. It's okay Eragon. Take your time. I'm not going anywhere.

Eragon waited few moments then took another deep breath and continued. Saphira ... why ... why did you choose ... me?

Neither of them noticed but the moment he'd asked the question his Gedway Ignasia flared in a faint glow then paled, losing its silvery gleam.