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Eragon lay thinking. It'd been several hours since he'd watched Saphira disappear into the darkening western sky then witnessed his Gedway Ignasia vanish before his eyes shortly after. The confusion and despair that'd followed had been so overwhelming he'd cried out to the twilight but had received no response. He'd wept at the railing for a long while afterwards then, deciding it would do no good to allow grief and frustration to overcome him, attempted to calm his mind by performing the meditative exercises Oromis had taught him. It'd helped only a little. Afterwards, seeing nothing more to be done, he'd come down to his cabin to turn in for the night.

Now, looking up at the raftered ceiling, he lay thinking, trying to understand what was happening to him and why. The cabin was alit with a soft red light, emanating from a flameless lantern that sat on a small table beside his bed. It was troubling enough that he'd sent Saphira away but more so was her behavior just before. His first reaction had been to target her as the cause of his blackout, his last memory having been the moment he'd placed his hand on her snout. The look in her eyes he'd glimpsed just before he'd recoiled was that of a fierce longing, a look she'd never given him before, but for what he didn't know. He only knew that the odd look combined with her close proximity left him grossly uncomfortable, a feeling he'd never experienced while near her. Something had happened to him but he didn't remember what.

Then there'd been her sudden change just after her first attempt to leave. He pictured the feral gaze in her eyes as she'd circled him, the manner in which she'd approached him, and the unsolicited attention she'd favored him. The memory sent a sudden chill through him; it was as if she'd been someone else and not the Saphira he knew, leaving him to wonder what she'd been doing, or what she'd planned to do. Had she been the cause of his blackout? Had she placed him under some kind of spell and, if so, to what end? None of it made sense to him, left him with unsettling questions, questions he wasn't sure he wanted answers to. No, not this time, lest the answers reveal something more troubling than what he'd already endured. A prospect that, for the moment, he had no stomach for.

A dark feeling came over him. For the first time since they'd bonded he didn't trust her, something had happened to her, she'd changed, spouting nonsense about their destiny as mates. Even going so far as to ... court him? It was unlike her, leaving him to wonder how their bond might be affected. Of one thing he was sure, it would never be the same again. Despite the alleged proof within her prophetic dream he still found the prospect hard to believe. Nothing like it had ever happened between a dragon and rider before. She'd been right about one thing though; something was clearly happening to him as well. But that fact alone offered no help, instead it concerned him more. He began to wonder if she'd been the reason behind his unsettling feelings all along. If she'd exerted some sort of influence over him, but why? Had she been driven mad with grief over the loss of Firnen? Was she so troubled that she'd lost all sense of reality? Such questions only left him to wonder if they still had a future together as dragon and rider, and whether or not they would be able to complete their mission. Still he'd promised her that he'd consider the prospect thoroughly and fairly, come to some sort of a decision; a decision, he'd thought, should have been easy to make, but for some reason it wasn't. He began to wonder why he'd made such a promise in the first place.

He brought his right hand up to look at it, palm facing him. He studied it for a moment, thinking how foreign - naked - it looked without the familiar silver sheen he'd grown so accustomed to. Bringing his left hand up he stretched out his fingers, gently brushing them against his palm, sending a shiver through him.

It feels so different now. He thought. Breathing a sigh he lowered both arms back to his sides then looked back up at the ceiling.

How could so much be going so wrong so fast? He thought. This is supposed to be a time of hope and rejoicing! The war is over and here we are en-route to a new home, a new hope for the dragons and riders! And now ... it ... it seems all for naught!

Eragon rolled to his side, staring into the heatless, red glow of the lantern.

What am I going to do now? What am I going to do about Saphira, about my Gedway Ignasia? How could this be happening to me, and who or what could be doing it? Am ... am I even a Rider anymore?

He shifted slightly, a twinge of fear stirring in his gut. What if somehow I'm not? How can I lead the riders? And ... and what of my bond to Saphira, is ... is that gone too?

He breathed another deep sigh. He was at a loss, leaving him little option but to consult Umaroth and Glaedr in the morning. He hoped that they might have more to offer on the matter. He felt drained, wanting to forget, if only a short while, about the concerns weighing heavy on his mind. He rolled to his back then closed his eyes, drifting into his waking dreams, to a time before the war, a time when life seemed much simpler.

Eragon smiled at the dream that soon came to mind. Pictured before him was the sight of three men, sitting at a familiar table, in the center of large room. Nearby, in the fireplace, a roaring fire burned; the sound of crackling wood heard in the background of the men's excited voices and occasional laughter. The aromas of cooked meat and fresh baked bread filled the room along with the faint smell of ale that'd been poured into wooden mugs. Eragon remembered the day very well. It'd been a meal he'd shared with Roran and Garrow, to celebrate what had been a very profitable harvest for them that year; one of the few times they'd enjoyed such a fine meal of meat and drink together. During the years he'd lived in the house there'd been only two other such occasions, as a result he'd made it a point to remember them with a special fondness. Garrow suddenly burst into a hearty laugh, from a joke Roran had told.

This is perfect. Eragon thought. What could be a better moment than this?

Eragon savored the image for a while longer before allowing the next to come into view, a stark contrast to the picture of warmth and merriment he'd just witnessed. Eragon coughed.

Where am I? He thought.

He was in a room, filled with smoke, a dull glow emanating from wood smoldering all around him. He wrinkled his nose at the foul smell of death and smoldering wood. "Eragon." A voice whispered. Eragon's face grimaced in horror as he turned to look at the source of the whisper. Lying on the ground was the broken body of Garrow. His chest was bear, littered with fresh burn wounds, the result of sither oil used to torture him. The Razac! Eragon thought. He paused, and then gathering his courage, went to Garrow and knelt beside him.

"Uncle I need to get you out of here. I need to get you to Gertrude. She can help you, save you!"

Garrow slowly turned his head to look at Eragon. Taking his hand he whispered.

"No Eragon. My time has come. There is nothing you can do for me now." Garrow's mouth formed a faint smile. "I know it's not been easy for you over the years, never knowing why your mother left you. But know that I am proud of the man you've become, proud to have considered you one of my sons." Garrow coughed weakly.

Tears began to stream down Eragon's face as he said. "Uncle you need to stop and let me get you out of here." Then he reached out his mind. Saphira! I need your help.

Garrow coughed again then said. "She's not here Eragon. It is only you and I. And you must let me go."

"But ... it was my fault uncle. My fault this happened to you!"

Garrow replied, shaking his head gently. "No Eragon. This was not your fault, it was meant to be. Just as the path before you is meant to be, trust in that. I never told, but I'd always believed you were destined for great things. And now you must believe in that yourself. Know that I have and always will love you, like a son, Eragon."

With his final words Garrow's body grew limp and still. "Uncle? No ... don't go!" Eragon leaned over Garrow's still body, closed his eyes, and then wept bitterly.

After a long while his sobs silenced and that's when he noticed it. The room felt different, the smell of smoldering wood and death gone. Replacing it was a light woodsy smell, tinged with dampness, like the smell of cool nights he'd remembered while camped in the Spine. He opened his eyes to discover that Garrow's body was gone. Instead of the orange glow from the fires that smoldered around him there was a soft light revealing an earthen floor upon which he knelt. He looked up to find that he was no longer in the main room of the home he'd lived in all his life. He was in the center of a large clearing dimly lit by a gibbous moon hovering in the night sky. The clearing was surrounded by a dense mist that veiled everything beyond it.

Eragon stood then breathed in deeply through his nose, catching the scent of decaying wood mixed with fragrant evergreens.

I must be in a forest. He thought. But what forest? Du Weldenvarden? The Spine?

The air was cool, but not uncomfortably so, and the night quiet save for the occasional hoot of an owl or scurry of small animals echoing from beyond the mist. He stood and remained still for a moment, surveying the clearing for any familiar detail that might tell him where he was. Finding none he began to slowly walk around taking in whatever details he could. He came upon a darkened circular patch of ground after only a short distance. It looked as if it had been burned by fire. He studied the patch for only a few moments before looking up, startled by the sound of muffled footsteps and snapping branches, echoing ahead of him from beyond the mist. The sounds came from someone, or something, moving towards him from beyond the clearing where he could not see. Instinctively he reached for his sword but found it was not sheathed at his waist so he quickly crouched behind a fallen tree that lay nearby. Eragon tensed as the unknown creature drew close, his eyes fixed to the point he expected it to emerge. Just before it did he saw two glowing orbs bobbing within the mist as the creature drew near. The orbs appeared to be a set of eyes that glowed a brilliant sapphire, moving with the creature's gentle gait. Their intensity was so great that the clearing began to brighten.

Finally it emerged from beyond the mist, continuing across the clearing until it was only a few feet away from the tree Eragon had crouched behind. There it stopped, resting on its haunches, and silently watched. Eragon stared back in awe at the creature in front of him which resembled the large shadowy figure of a dragon.

Could this be the same dragon I saw in Saphira's dream? He thought. He was uncertain and so remained crouched, saying nothing, while keeping his eyes fixed on the creature.

After several moments the dragon gently entered Eragon's mind and spoke in a deep male voice.

Greetings Eragon-Skulblakahjarta, there is no cause for you to hide, I mean you no harm. Come out and let us speak awhile.

Eragon waited, contemplating whether or not to accept the dragon's invitation. After several moments he cautiously stood then, deciding its intentions were not hostile, came out from behind the tree and hesitantly approached, coming to a stop just in front of it. Up close the dragon appeared to have jet-black scales that shown with a dull glow reflected by the moonlight. Eragon wrinkled his nose as a smoky-sweet scent filled his nostrils.

It looks like a dragon, but not like one I've ever smelled before. He thought.

Summoning his courage he asked. Who ... who are you, and what do you want with me?

The dragon released a soft rumble then relaxed into a crouch. My name is Ar'Din. W_ho I am is not important right now._ The dragon paused, bringing its head close to Eragon. I am here on behalf of the one who sent me. Here to ensure the event's concerning yours and Saphira's future are set into motion, to guide you in the early stage of your transition and to equip you for what is ahead. It is by no accident that you were chosen by Saphira, nor was it coincidence that you were required to leave Alagasia in search of a new home for the dragons and riders.

Eragon scowled. Must he remind me of my fate? He thought. Then he sighed, looked around briefly then back to the dragon. What is this place? I've never seen it in my dreams before. For that matter I've never seen you in my dreams before. Where do you come from?

The dragon drew its head back and smiled, releasing a soft rumble that Eragon could swear was a chuckle. If it pleases you to think of this as a dream then by all means do so. As to where I come from? That knowledge will wait until the appointed time. For now let us be concerned with what is at hand. There is still much you require.

Require? Eragon asked with a quizzical expression. What could I possibly require? Before giving Ar'Din time to answer Eragon's expression changed. Narrowing his eyes he continued. Wait! What ... what is this transition you spoke of?

Ar'Din remained silent for a moment before answering. Your role in the defeat of the egg-breaker king was merely part of a greater destiny that lay before you Eragon-Skulblakahjarta. A new and wondrous future awaits you, one that has never before been given to a member of your race. It is not without trial but the rewards are great! And even though you are not yet aware, included among the rewards is what you desire most of all.

Eragon's jaw clenched. Turning away from Ar'Din he thought. Wondrous future? Never before given? What I desire most of all? What is he talking about? What does all of this mean? Eragon lifted his right hand to look at his palm once more then rubbed it with the fingers of his left. He spent several moments in silence then turned to face Ar'Din. Does this ... future ... you speak of have anything to do with my Gedway Ignasia vanishing?

Ar'Din nodded. Aye, it does Eragon-Skulblakahjarta.

Eragon thought for a moment then asked. Are ... are you responsible for its disappearance?

Again Ar'Din nodded. I am.

Confusion riddled Eragon's face. What ... w_hy? What does it mean? What's happening to me and to ... to Saphira? Surely that can't be part of the wondrous future you spoke of. There's nothing wondrous about it at all!_

Peace Eragon-Skulblakahjarta. In answer to your first question, your path as a rider has passed away. As a result you shall no longer bear the mark of a rider. Instead you bear a new mark, one fitting the plan laid for you long ago.

Eragon pursed his lips, fists clenching, as anger welled in him. Plan! Gods, what must I endure now? He thought.

After a moment he replied. Plan? What plan? Gods what is going on here? Am I to be subject to the whims of fate my entire life? To have my choices made for me without ever having say? Have I not sacrificed enough? Only a short time ago I heard the worst news I could possibly hear from one whom I thought was closer to me than any other! I had to send her away only to wonder if she was the cause all along for feelings I shouldn't have! Because of this I not only fear we'll be unable to finish our mission, but that I'll lose her too, not to mention my own mind if this keeps up much longer! Tell me dragon what's so wondrous about that!

Peace Eragon-Skulblakahjarta ...

Enough! Why do you keep referring to me by an unknown name? Eragon interrupted.

Ar'Din rose to his feet then roared, shaking the ground in a terrible tremor. Eragon lost his balance, stumbling back, and then hit the ground, eyes widened in surprise. As the ground steadied Ar'Din relaxed back into a crouch, tendrils of smoke coming from his nostrils. I said peace! Now ... do you wish answers or shall we continue with another lesson in humility?

Eragon's expression softened. He started to speak but then thought better of it, instead choosing to remain sitting in silence before Ar'Din.

Ar'Din continued. Good. Now ... first the name. It is not an unknown name. It is now your name.

Eragon replied indignantly, unable to contain himself. That is not my name dragon! My name is Eragon-Shadeslayer-Bromson. Why would I change it?

Remaining clam Ar'Din replied. Peace. Your name has changed because it is fitting. You are no longer who you were.

Eragon's face became quizzical again. What is that supposed to mean? How can I not be who I am? You're not making any sense!

Ar'Din was silent for a moment then said. I give you these, an ancient gift. They will equip you to understand.

Eragon felt a soft burning in his chest. Then he took hold of his head, closing his eyes, as a dull throb began to form. A flood of new memories poured into his mind soon after, leaving him dizzy and nauseous with the sudden rush of images, sensations and sounds. After a brief period the flood of memories ceased, the burning in his chest faded and the throbbing vanished. Eragon released his head and remained still for a while longer, allowing the dizziness and nausea to pass. He opened his eyes, recoiling from Ar'Din a short distance, and then inquired. What was that! What did you just do to me?

Peace Eragon-Skulblakahjarta. You've not been harmed. I've given you what is rightly yours, the first among a three-fold inheritance held in wait of your coming. They are part of who you are now.

Eragon's brow furrowed in confusion then he replied. I don't understand. What inheritance?

An inheritance set aside for you long ago; one fitting the role to which you were chosen and one you will eventually pass to generations that follow you, restoring what was lost. Review them often and understanding will come to you. Now ... we move on.

Move on? To what?

Your next concern of course, Saphira and the prophecy she revealed to you, a prophecy given her long ago.

A sense of confirmation came over Eragon. Then you are the dragon from Saphira's dream?

I am.

Then what she was telling me was ... was true?

Aye, it is true.

But how? And ... why? How can this be?

You've already discovered your feelings for her, have you not?

Eragon looked down in shame. Aye, I have. I don't understand how or why I have them. No rider should have such feelings for their dragon. I feel as if something is ... amiss within me. Moreover I can't help but wonder if Saphira is somehow responsible. I don't know what else could be causing them.

Ar'Din growled softly_. The feelings you have for her Eragon-Skulblakahjarta are not amiss, they are no accident, nor is Saphira the cause of them. They are the inevitability of your new path. They emanate from a new heart created in you, one that was created to love her._

Eragon looked up and replied. Love her? I don't understand. I've loved Saphira since the day we bonded. Why would I need a new heart to love her? I already do. Although ... I don't know how it will endure what has already happened between us.

Ar'Din shook his head. You misunderstand. I've not spoken of the love between dragon and rider, no. I've spoken of the love between mates. The heart created in you is born of a great fire. As a result it now burns for her, just as hers now burns for you. Your new heart burns faintly now but will grow, waging war against your mind until both are brought into agreement. When that day comes your love for her will be fierce, eternal and inextinguishable. T_he fire in you is only just beginning to emerge; your feelings for her among the first of many changes that await you in the days ahead. Soon that which was created in you will manifest into its true form. The old will pass away so that the prophecy given her might be fulfilled._

Eragon fidgeted as a chill came over him. I ... I'm not sure what to think of that. I ... I just can't picture myself loving her any differently. This ... this is too new, too ... unnatural.

Ar'Din smiled. Do not dismay Eragon-Skulblakahjarta. With every transition there are times of doubt and trouble. It will become easier for you to accept if you maintain trust in the prophecy, and in the love you already have for her. The memories I've given you will help for they contain much. Review them often in the days ahead. In the meantime I give you another gift, a glimpse of what is to come.

The clearing and everything around it suddenly faded into a void. After a few moments the surroundings re-emerged but were of a different sort. Remaining where he was Eragon took a moment to look around and discovered that they were no longer in the clearing but were inside what looked like a large cave. In one side of the cave was a large nest, set within the stone floor, layered with an interlaced network of branches and leaves. Nestled within its center were three eggs, one pure sapphire, one pure amethyst and one white, colored with a network of amethyst veins. At another end of the cave was a large entrance. Just outside the entrance a pair of dragons who were reared on their haunches, facing one another, fore-claws clasped and wings outspread. I ... I've seen them before haven't I?

Aye, you have ... and you will again.

Who are they?

They are your future Eragon-Skulblakahjarta.

Surprised Eragon looked at Ar'Din and replied. What do you mean my future? I don't understand.

Look closely Eragon-Skulblakahjarta. Do you not recognize one of them?

Eragon turned back to look at the pair of dragons. After a moment he was hit with a sense of recognition. The sapphire dragon ... it ... it looks like ... Saphira?

Ar'Din thrummed. Very good! You are correct it is your Saphira.

But how? And who is the other dragon? I've never seen it before.

As I said they are your future. The other dragon is a male, her mate. It is true that you have not met him before, but you already know him.

Becoming frustrated Eragon turned to look back at Ar'Din; more confused than ever_. Know him? What do mean? This makes no sense! How can I know a dragon I've never met before?_

Eragon threw his hands over his head. Bah! Why must you speak to me in riddles? First Saphira tells me that we are destined to be mates, then you practically confirm it and now you're implying this in not the case ... saying that some other dragon I've never met is her mate! What is going on here?

Peace Eragon-Skulblakahjarta! Nothing has changed concerning your destiny. You will meet the dragon soon.

Ar'Din stood then fluttered his wings_. We have spoken long enough. Take the memory of these dragons, and the others I have given you, and meditate over them. We will speak on this matter again. Now wake and share what you have seen thus far with Glaedr, Umaroth and the other Eldunari`._

Ar'Din turned, heading into a shadowed darkness at the back of the cave.

Eragon called out. "Wait! Where are you going? I've more questions."

As Ar'Dins tail disappeared into the darkness he replied. Wakeup Eragon-Skulblakahjarta! Wakeup and remember what you've been given ... and what awaits you. We will speak again when you are ready.

As the dragon's final words echoed into silence the cave, the nest and the other dragons faded into darkness. A moment later Eragon awoke to find himself once again in the cabin on his bed. He blinked his eyes, bringing them into focus, and then looked to the port window above his bed. It glowed with the soft orange light of the sun that was just coming over the eastern horizon. Taking a deep breath he looked back up at the ceiling and thought. Was that a dream or was it real?