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Eragon woke up with a gasp, still holding his dragoness on the deck of the Talita. His thoughts was still disoriented, but slowly catching up to the event from the previous day. It struck him like a well-aimed arrow and his mind was flooded with regret and guilt. “I'm so sorry" he whispered quietly to sleeping Saphira, as he clenched his arms around her tighter. Eragon found himself on the verge of crying again as he started thinking about his neglection and ignorance towards his precious partner. Indeed, a few tears already started to flow down his cheeks. He struggled to remain quiet to avoid waking her up. He could feel her tremblingfrom time to time in his grasp. Eragon looked up and noticed it was very early in the morning, as he felt the chill air around him.

He didn't know what he would say to his dragoness when she woke up. They had arguments from time to time… He knew he must apologise but his words would not amend his actions. So he lay there thinking about it without any clear solutions. After some time he felt the gentle pressure of Eldunarii on his mind.

With tired and down-cast voice, he addressed his masters_. “Yes, Elbrithil…"_ He kept his face turned to Saphira as he didn't want them to see his face tainted with tears.

Glaedr and Umaroth were taken aback by the sheer level of grief of the young rider and it took a moment for them to regain their composure.

“Eragon," Glaedr began in the ancient language “I… apologise for what I did during yesterday's training and… pushing Saphira and you so much for last week. I never wanted to hurt her."

“It's my fault. I ignored signs she has been dealing with something inside her since… since we left Alagesia." Eragon struggled to hold his voice even, then continued. “I saw her unfocused gaze, the hesitation in her voice, but I shrugged that off…"

Umaroth spoke up snapping the rider out of his guilt for a moment.

“You took the time to investigate her insomnia and I saw you at her side whenever she was troubled." Umaroth noticed Eragon's surprise.

_ “Yes, I always pay attention to both of you, even though I remain_ed silent. Glaedr let me know you spent nights reading scrolls trying to help her." With a soothing voice, like a parent calming the distressed child down, he continued.

“Your action proved you did notice her behaviour and reacted the best way you could."

“So what… What should I do now?" He slowly pulled back from Saphira but remained seated on the deck.

“We put the expedition and your daily tasks on hold till Saphira feels better," Glaedr added_._

“Indeed." Umaroth chimed in with a quiet growl.

“But… We must…" Eragon began.

“The hatchlings have been in eggs for over one hundred years, they can wait a bit longer," Umaroth replied.

“Alright…"

_ “Eragon, do you remember our conversation last night?_ Glaedr asked_._

“I do."

“What was the relationship between Saphira and Firnen really like?"

Eragon became quiet trying to recall everything he might have noticed, even though there was not much. Now he cursed himself for spending so much time with Arya and neglecting Saphira back then. He couldn't rely on his memories, thus he looked into his heart hoping his emotions would guide him. The first meeting with Firnen. The following weeks flying back and forth between representatives of each race. The happy and passionate reunions of dragons…

“As far_ as I could tell she loved him…"_ he hesitated for a moment at the uncertainty in his own voice_._ “You may have an idea how loud dragons mates are during the times they think they're alone…"

Both elder dragons acknowledged this with sheepish grunts.

“So everything seemed fine to me…"

“Go on youngling," Umaroth urged him.

Eragon reached out to caress Saphira's scales gently lost in thoughts.

_ “I think she has been trying to suppress her longing for him for a long time…"_ he paused for a moment. All symptoms she showed… Insecurity, anxiety, insomnia… There was something more to this. During the war his dragoness always supported him in every moment, when he fought for, or was rejected by Arya. To him Saphira was his anchor in the endevour to overthrow Galbatorix but… Did he support her well enough during that time too? The rider quickly recalled past events, it felt to him the longer they spent in Vardens the less time they had for themselves. His face lost colour when he realised she could had been at the edge of breakdown for a long time. What if Firnen was the one that was helping to keep her accumulated stress at bay? Before he could dwell on that thought, Glaedr interrupted him.

“This trip didn't make it easy for her."

“No, it didn't. I believe the only thing that kept that sorrow at bay was her self-confidence…" Eragon agreed.

_ “…which was shattered yesterday."_ Umaroth finished for him, then everyone fell silent.

Eragon didn't want to mention what he just realised; he felt uneasy to say it in the open.

The rider kept rubbing the dragoness' scales feeling warmth beneath his fingers. He overcame many obstacles during the fight against Galbatorix with her. When the situation seemed to be hopeless they always found the solution. It couldn't be truer after the battle with the tyrant king which was won by his powerful, wordless spell… But what can he do now? There is no way back to Alagaesia as the cruel fate decided in Teirm. They can't go back to their loved ones_. “I can't go back to her…"_ As his mind began to wonder that path, the morning sun began shedding light on his dragoness, catching his attention. Light reflected on each scale creating a spectacle for his sore eyes. As he looked at Saphira's muzzle, something just clicked in his mind. As long as she is at his side he will never be alone.

“Eragon" Glaedr made him snap out of his melancholy.

“I know you can't replace Firnen, but to help her you should give her as much attention and care as you're able to." Eragon's heart stopped when replacing Firnen was mentioned."You're the last anchor for her sanity probably."

A cold shiver ran down Eragon's spine at his master's last words. His reaction was swift. He raised his head high and replied in the ancient language.

“I will do everything to make her happy again, whatever it will be."

_ _Both elder dragons fell silent. Eragon shifted in place, suddenly a little awkward as he realised the severity of his declaration. However, it felt right to say at the same time. His thoughts moved back to Eldunarii, then something just clicked in his mind.

“I believe I'd be better if only you, Master Glaedr, accompanies me from now on _.._." Feeling disapproval from Umaroth, he quickly added.

“Saphira would feel more comfortable with only Glaedr because she met him in person. It's not easy to open oneself to strangers, I mean no disrespect to Master Umaroth and the other Eldunarii…"

“None taken," Umaroth replied followed by his deep sigh. “I see your point."

“As do I." Glaedr chimed in, then he added.

“However, you won't be allowed to go too far from Talita just in case"

“Naturally" Eragon replied. The rider took a moment to gather his thoughts trying to figure out the logistics side of his idea.

“Can we transfer all Eldunarii except for Glaedr's one to Master Blodgharm inside a wrapped space like mine?"

“Yes, it will require a small modification of the spell," Umaroth confirmed. “And we won't transfer all Eldunarii at once. No need to reinforce Saphira's self-doubt. Let's start with only half of them for today.

Eragon tensed feeling Saphira stirring beside him.

“The rest of us can be transferred over time by a small amount at one time," Gleadr spoke. “I'll make sure only the quietest ones will stay with you Eragon, so Saphira wouldn't feel the difference when it is only me with you."

“Ok, we'll do it as soon as Blodgharm is awake." A low growl broke the silence behind him. He turned to see her muscles had already begun twitching.

_“Excuse me, Masters." _

He turned around and rushed as quietly as possible towards Saphira's head. He sat with a safe distance in case she was disoriented. He observed her body began twitching more as muscles jerked underneath her scales. Suddenly, her left wing moved sharply almost hitting him at his right side, as it pushed close to her body. Eragon turned his gaze to her eyes and saw them twitching. Assuming she was having a bad dream, he closed his eyes and reached out for her mind with his own to gently probe her thoughts. He found her mind clouded with incomprehensible scenes, words ripped out from the context and her increasing panic. The rider started injecting his warmth and affection into her, pushing the darkness out from her mind. The pressure of darkness was almost overwhelming to him, but he strengthened his resolve to keep going. To him, it felt like going through the thickest forest he had ever visited trying to reach his goal on the other side. Step by step he came closer and closer to her consciousness that seemed hidden behind thick iron walls; it looked like a wounded animal hidden in its safe nest. With one part of him keeping the darkness of her mind at bay, the other reached out and touched the cold barrier. Eragon spoke up with all the affection he could muster in his gentle voice.

“Saphira, wake up. You're safe with me…"

At once the pressure around him stopped and the wall around her core lowered. He felt she wanted to hug his mind badly to seek comfort, but she stopped and slowly pushed him out of her mind feeling ashamed because of what he might have seen. When Eragon returned to his body and opened his eyes, he saw Saphira was awake and looking at him from the corner of her eye. She still lay in the fetal position and pressed her limbs tighter to her body as soon as she caught her rider's gaze. Instinctively she tried to look smaller and hide from him, even though she wasn't aware of it.

“I…" Her body began shaking.

“Shh… You don't need to say anything if you don't want to," he said with all the love he had.

“Come here" he continued as he moved to her closer and open his arms widely. Even without their bond, he could tell that she was extremely nervious about something, and he desperately wanted to help sooth it away.

Saphira jerked her head away instinctively; her wide pupils staring at his hands. Eragon's heart clenched to see his dear dragoness moving away from him, but he still held his arms in the same position. Following his instincts, the rider closed his eyes and waited. After a moment, sensitive ears heard the hesitant shuffle of her scales across the wooden deck. Eragon knew her head was right in front of him with her fearful eyes studying his features. Then she brushed his chest with her muzzle shyly sending gusts of air from her nostrils. After a few seconds which seemed like hours to Eragon, he felt the weight of the dragoness head on his lap. A weak and sorrowful whine escaped her throat, as she tried her best to hide her head from the sight of the entire world. Eragon lowered his arms to hug her gently trying to avoid startling the dragoness, as she continued sobbing. He placed his cheek on top of her head and reached out to graspher ear. He began caressing it carefully in a calming manner. His another palm rested on her cheek, feeling the warmth underneath a layer of sapphire scales. Eragon wrapped his mind around hers holding her. He didn't think, he just did what felt right.

The rider turned his head to peck her on top of her head. As he did it his nose caught the earthy scent of Saphira. Subconsciously, he took a few breaths lingering over her scales. He had never thought her smell could have been so pleasant. Eragon placed his cheek back where it was before and brushed her scales softly. Meanwhile, the dragoness had been doing exactly the same, trying to find comfort in her Little One's smell and body. Saphira twisted her head trying to spread his scent over her scales.

They sat there for several minutes. Eragon took notice that her breath went back to normal and she lay still on his lap. Reluctantly, the rider rose from her head and continued petting her muzzle, stroking it up and down its length. Worry was apparent in his mind, especially since he couldn't tell what was going on inside the dragoness's mind. One wrong word may add more salt to the wound; he wanted to avoid that at all cost.

Suddenly, he felt Saphira shifting on his lap. She pulled away from the rider's hands and slowly, turned head a bit to look at him. Eragon felt if dragons had been able to shed tears, he would have looked at them flowing down her scales. With a voice that was barely a whisper she spoke.

“I am such a pathetic dragon… Losing during the mental training with…. such a head start." She whimpered.“I… don't know how I can be worth being called a dragon…“How can I be worthy of being your dragon?" She clenched her eyelids tightly and a shudder ran through her entire body.

Eragon was stunned by the impact of her words and the sorrow flowing within their bond. He quickly placed his palm on her muzzle before he spoke_._

“You're my Saphira. The one I fought with side by side when we defeated the tyrant king. The one I have been with for better and for worse for the last 2 years. The one I love and care for. A slip up won't change what I think and feel about you, because you're the world to me."

His last words made Saphira growl in shock. He took a break to gather his thoughts as the dragoness opened her eyes and looked at him with a gleam he couldn't recognise.

“I'm sorry I haven't given you the attention and care you needed since we began this expedition and... way before it. It seems I was so focused on the task that I forgot to take things slowly and you suffered because of it."

He lowered his head as best as he could to look in her eyes. This time the dragoness didn't pull back, but she stared deep into his brown ones with focus.

“I will do everything to see you happy again _,_" he added, switching tothe ancient language once again. “And remember, you're not alone in this." Then he kissed her eyebrow softly.

Saphira was paralysed by the sudden declaration of her rider and thelight touch of his lips on her scales made her mind stop followed by a spark of pleasure she hadn't felt for a while. It was a simple gesture, but it carried a bigger meaning than the words could. Many thoughts flew through her mind trying to find words to express what she felt.

Saphira raised her head and pressed her muzzle under Eragon's chin and with a rumble she said:

“Thank You… My Little One…"

Careful not to scrape his vulnerable skin with his rough scales, she began to rub herself against him. Eragon returned her gesture in his own way, running his palm back and forth over her scales. She growled finding the comfort she desperately needed.

After a moment she curled her head back and nipped Eragon's jaw gently absentmindedly. Then she pulled back entirely. The rider sat there a bit stunned; she has never done something like that to him before. She suddenly realized what she had done and snorted in surprise at herself, maybe even a little confused as to what had caused her to do something like that. “I only did that with…" Saphira shook her head trying to remove the thought from her mind.

Meanwhile, Eragon was lost what just happened and figured Saphira felt the same. He made a mental note to worry about it later.

Saphira, noticing the confusion in the gaze of her rider, decided to change topic feeling a bit nervous.

“So… Are we going on a patrol… as usual?" she whimpered in slight anxiety.

“No, we aren't. Glaedr gave us a day off," he felt a jolt of fear in their bond when the Eldunari's name was mentioned. Then he continued after a second_._

“Furthermore the elves wouldn't mind to stretch their legs on land and explore on their own for a bit."

The last part he added on his own, hoping Umaroth would approve his idea as the rider let Glaedr know about his intentions privately.

“Does it mean… no mental defense training today?" she asked a little hesitently.

“Yes," then he quickly added out loud. “We can do whatever we would like to do".

“I see…" Eragon failed to notice his Saphira making a wry face. Her paranoiac side of mind began overthinking implications of their Masters' reluctance to continue their training. The clouds of darkness began to solidify around the core of her soul, numbing the regions responsible for expressing positive emotions. She felt the energy leaving her muscles as she laid her head on the deck in front of her Little One. Saphira looked up at her rider and slowly lowered her gaze to stare at the deck of Talita instead. Eragon realised his response had the opposite effect of what he had anticipated, and slapping himself mentally, he offered an alternative option.

“You know, if you felt like it, we could train together. Just you and me," he reached his hand out to rub her muzzle in a soothing pattern.

Saphira was quiet for a long while unable to decide whether she should agree or not.

“Maybe… I think I'm not strong enough anymore." She responded with no emotion in her voice. As the dragoness spoke up, Eragon slowed down his caressing, paying even more attention to what he was doing.

“No pressure, my dear. Know my offer still stands and I'll train with you with pleasure," he finished with a genuine smile.

Saphira felt lost, one side her mind didn't believe in his words but on the other, she felt overawed and pleased, even though it was just a simple and natural thing for any bonded dragon and its rider. The dragoness sent him thoughts of appreciation, despite being wary of mental defence training with him.

Eragon recalled to his mind the matter he discussed with his teachers earlier this morning. He looked around as he thought about how to approach this idea and avoid stressing Saphira. He asked Umaroth privately if he approved the rider's suggestion. He may have come up with the idea, but he was still nervous of exactly how to present it to his dragoness.

_ “Also, Umaroth wished some Eldunarii would be assigned to Boldgharm, so in case something bad happened, he would have enough strength to help the other elves or us."_

“Wouldn't be better…" she began, but quickly dismissed her worries.

“Alright…"

“Hey… I value your opinion a lot" he said softly to her as he grabbed her lower jaw to raise her head to his eye level.

“What do you think about it?" the rider asked a simple question, yet it sent her warm feelings across the bond as he looked into her bottomless sapphire eyes.

“Master Blodgharm is a strong mage, but… it doesn't mean he cannot be defeated…" She turned her eyes to avoid his gaze.

After a moment she continued “What would have happened to the Eldunarii if… he perished?" Her sense of duty made her believe the only safe place for them is with Eragon and herself, even though the presence of hundreds of Eldunarii may not be… comfortable.

“They will still be hidden in the warped space, it doesn't need constant energy to be sustained," Eragon replied. Feeling hesitation from his dragoness he decided to reassure his dragoness.

“And the Eldunarii will share their strength with Blodgharm in case it's needed. They will be in good hands."

Saphira thought his response was a little careless, it was something she should expect from her rider after all.

“He is right Brightskular" Umaroth chimed in out of blue startling the dragoness a bit. Her pupils widened, as she shuddered in Eragon's grasps.

“Yes, Elbrith" she replied embarrassed_._

“Fear not, it will be alright. We will ask Blodgharm to swear he would return all Eldunarii to you at your request," Umaroth tried to reassure the worried dragoness, but with the mixed result, unfortunately.

“If you are so sure about it, so be it," she sighed in resignation, forgetting to address the elder dragon with respect.

“Hey," Eragon's voice caught her attention. During the exchange with Umaroth, she forgot her head was still in her riders' warm palms. She locked her tired eyes with his, trying to read his expression. Uncertainty flew through her mind as he brought her muzzle closer to his face. Soon after Saphira felt the warm and gentle touch of his lips on her scales. It wasn't a simple peck he used to give her a lot in the past. This one was deeper and longer. She watched him with wide eyes, feeling a surge of pleasure across their bond. Her mind was unable to comprehend the sudden strong affectionate act of her Little One. Even though it felt like minutes, the entire experience lasted 3 or 4 seconds.

Eragon pulled back and spoke “It will be fine" with a tone reminding the dragoness almost of a crooning dragon. Saphira remained speechless after the kiss. She lowered her eyes and titled her muzzle in a shy manner feeling such a strong affection from her rider. At least, something told her that her reckless rider may be right and she found some peace in his soft voice.

“I trust you" she replied as a shudder ran through her body. Her reaction made the rider smile broadly. He knew she had a lot of problems to deal with, but he was glad he had her trust.

Eragon rubbed her sensitive nose, admiring the sapphire colours of her scales before his mind stopped daydreaming. He guessed he stayed too long enjoying it. He released her head and got up carefully. Sitting too long in one position strained his muscles, the pain reminded him of his neglection of rimgar for the last few days.

Saphira followed Eragon's movement with her eyes in anticipation.

“Will you wait here for a moment? I'll go get Blodgharm so we can begin the transfer of the Eldunarii to him."

“Yes, I'll be here".

The rider nodded and went towards the entrance to lower decks passing his dragoness by her side. She curled her head to look at him as he walked past. Then, she noticed her restless tail from the corner of her eye as it betrayed her conflicted mess of emotions. With an irritated growl to herself, she forced it to stop twitching before Eragon would notice and start worrying again...

Eragon walked down stairs and went to the elf's cabin. He was about to knock on the door when the one he looked for open it. So, the rider found himself with a raised palm clenched in a fist in front Blodgharm face. The elves' hearing sense will never stop to amaze him.

“Good morning, Shadeslayer" he greeted him, as touched his lips with two fingers. Eragon replied likewise.

“I see you came here in haste. Did something bad happen with Bjartskular?" he added in sending his thought to Eragon.

“No, it could've been better, could've been worse," he replied and then said out loud _“_Umaroth and I need you on deck, please follow me."

“Lead the way, Eragon."

As they walked towards the stairs the rider recalled waking up covered by a blanket. He had a feeling Blodgharm was responsible for it, but he wasn't sure.

“I need to thank the person who gave me a blanket during last night… It is pretty cool this early in the morning."

“I'm sure it's not needed. It's just natural for us." Blodgharm replied quickly.

“Blodgharm humble as always _,_" Eragon thought_._ “I know, I still appreciate it whoever did it."

“I couldn't expect nothing less" the elf finished with a faint smile.

They reached the staircase and walked up to the top deck. Eragon opened the door and the chill air hit his skin once again. He looked around taking a view of the landscape and then look towards where Saphira was.

It seemed she was at the beginning of her morning routine. Eragon's eyes turned towards her as she started stretching her back in a cat-like manner. The dragoness lowered her front body to the deck, pushing her hips back and up with the tail curling up. The rider's gaze landed on her hips, admiring the view of her shapely tights andthe slimtail raised in the air. Then his eyes caught the view of her vaginal folds rubbing each other with every subtle movement of her hips. Eragon couldn't turn his gaze away from her rump while he was walking towards her. Soon the view of the dragoness' exposed groin was imprinted on the rider's memory. A sly smile appeared on his face. However, his daydreaming was interrupted when the dragoness lowered her tail and hips, finishing one part of the morning ritual.

To Eragon, it felt like he was pulled out from a trance and the logical part of his mind managed to finally get control over his brain again. As soon as it did, the rider's cheeks became rose red and he hastily closed off that part of his mind in panic. He couldn't have imagined his Saphira's reaction if she had found out. He prayed Blodgharm didn't notice what he did either. “What is wrong with me? Why did I look at her in such a way?" Those were two of the many questions that were being repeated over and over again as he continued walking after a brief stop.

He walked around the dragoness and did his best to not look at her, trying to calm down. The rider knew it wasn't the first time he experienced something like this and it made him worry what it could mean. On his side stood Blodgharm who sensed the rider's discomfort but he chose to not mention it.

Meanwhile, Saphira finished her morning stretching and turned towards her Little One. He appeared nervous for some reason and it started affecting her as well. She focused her tired mind on him to call him. The dragoness went through his outer barriers without problems after they recognised a well-known visitor. However, she heard no response. Her anxiety began raising with every moment of silence. Saphira was about to reach for the barrier where she suspected Eragon soul was, but she hesitated. Instead, she reached out her head and bumped his chest gently before looked down, fearing his reaction subconsciously.

Eragon snapped out from his thoughts and heard Saphira question.

“Is… it everything alright?" she asked in a quiet voice.

“Yes, I was just… too deep in thoughts, sorry" he tried to sound as apologetic as possible.

“Mhm…" she replied weakly followed by a quiet throat rumble.

Eragon cursed himself. He couldn't tell the whole truth which will create awkward moments between them, like this one. He could tell she felt her concern was disregarded though, and it pained him to see that. Trying to stop the damage, he reached out and cupped her cheek to let her know he appreciated her care. She looked at him without saying a word and then spoke up.

“So… s_hall we start the transfer then?"_ she asked, sending her thoughts to Eragon, Blodgharm, and Eldunarii.

“We shall," Glaedr spoke up making Eragon jerk a bit. With a shock, the rider suddenly realized that his mentor may had noticed his reaction to ... the 'incident'. “Eragon, Saphira, listen to the spell words carefully and try to memorise it."

The golden Eldunarii told them the words of power in the ancient language. The spell was meant to keep any object inside a small warped space behind the person affected by the spell. It was quite cheap and safe because it required only a one time draw of a caster's energy. Even when a person who carries such hidden storage dies, the warped space would still remain unaffected because it doesn't require energy to sustain it. In the worst-case scenario, it would be tied to the body forever unless someone had cancelled the spell.

When the spell was memorised by the rider and the dragoness, Glaedr asked Blodgharm to vow in the ancient language that he would return the Eldunarii to Eragon and Saphira by their or Glaedr's request without any delay. He wouldn't abuse the hearts of hearts' power for his personal gains and only be allowed to use their strength to defend himself and other people during this expedition.

“Do you not trust me enough, my friends?" he showed off his teeth in one of his characteristic smiles.

“Better safe than sorry," Eragon replied in a joking manner.

The elf chuckled in response, then he repeated the oath that bound him magically.

Eragon closed his eyes and began casting the spell. Firstly, he created the warped space behind the elf using his life energy to sustain it. He also bound the light around them so no one could see the Eldunarii in the open as they were being transferred to Blodgharm's hidden storage space one by one. After a moment, six dozen of the Eldunarii were placed inside there. Eragon and Saphira felt the difference in their minds. The presence of the Eldunarii was faint but still detectable as they made sure the spell allowed free communication between each individual gem. The rider opened his eyes relaxing his mind after the intense concentration. Saphira came up behind him, holding her head above his shoulder.

“Is everything in order Umaroth-elda, Master Blodgharm?" he asked, looking at the elf and the spot behind him.

“It is, it feels no different when compared to a moment before." The leader of the dragons spoke.

Blodgharm smiled feeling the presence of dragons. For Eragon, it was a good answer.

Umaroth concluded.“Now, in case of an emergency, the elves would have enough power to defend Talita from various threats. However, they are not unbeatable, even with the aid of the Eldunarii. I know you have an admirable sense of your duty, but you can't protect us and the eggs while you are away on patrol at the same time. So make sure you remain within summoning distance at all times."

The last words were directed towards both the rider and the dragoness. To Eragon, they made sense, even though a big part of him felt it was his ultimate responsibility to protect the dragons. The man's lips tightened at those words. Meanwhile, Umaroth's sincere concern made Saphira feel even more guilty. Her wings and tail lowered like they had no more energy to be held in idle position.

“I understand, Master. Our duties don't change, we will do our best to protect you and the future of the dragon race."

“I didn't expect anything different from both of you." After a moment he added_,_ “with this matter dealt with you are free. Just please report at least twice a day if you were away from Talita."

“Argetlman," Blodgharm lowered his head to show respect.

“Blodgharm," Eragon returned the gesture smiling and then watched the furry elf walking away to join his people who began their morning tasks on board the ship.

The rider didn't overlook the fact that his partner-of-mind-and-heart was really quiet during the entire conversation. Letting his mind wander to probe her soul, he reached out with his left arm to guide her head onto his shoulder. She didn't resist his probe and he was surprised to find her mind was silent Eragon pressed his cheek to her muzzle as the right hand began petting the sensitive tip of her nose gently.

“You were quiet, my dear," he began softly. “Would you like to talk about it?" leaving her an option to interpret the question as she wants to.

“I am not sure…" she replied honestly_. “I feel… lost."_

Eragon wrapped his mind around her in a gentle but firm hug.

“I'll help you to find the way," he assured her with a loving tone, kissing her muzzle. As he did that, Saphira's heart skipped a beat as something stirred in her heart that she didn't know what it was. Though, it didn't stop her from nudging his cheek in appreciation. Suddenly, a rumble in the dragoness' stomach made her eyes widen in surprise.

“Would you like to grab something to eat?" Eragon chuckled.

“Yes." she answered sheepishly_._

“I'll go get my bag and the saddle then". Before he walked away he felt Saphira's muzzle touch the back of his neck as her nostrils took his scent in a deep breath. He smiled and nudged her mind in a cheerful manner. She cooed in response.

Eragon felt the warmth inside him thinking about his dragoness while he was going towards the storage to pick up the needed equipment. The memory of the 'incident' from this morning was still fresh, but it was overshadowed by love to his Saphira.

“I wish I could hold her in my arms like during the time she was just a hatchling," the rider thought privately and felt the warmth spreading across his entire body. He trotted to his cabin to pick up his belongings. He stopped in front of his desk and saw sheets of paper and charcoal laying on it. An idea came to him and he quickly put them in his bag.

He headed back to the top deck where Saphira was looking into the distance, deep in thought. Eragon didn't want to leave her for a too long time alone, so he trotted to her, dropped his bag near her and then went back to pick up the saddle.

The entire saddling process proved to take longer than just a day ago. Despite her sleep, she still felt tired and exhausted, thus her movements were sluggish. Eragon had to encourage her to get up so he could buckle up all the stripes.

After a moment she lowered the front of her body so he could mount her. He put his sword into the sheath and soon he was secured in the saddle. Before he let Saphira know he was ready she spoke to him.

“Are you secure in the saddle, Little One?" She curled her head to him and looked at her saddle. She was suddenly alert again, even a little anxious despite the knowledge her rider wouldn't neglect his safety. She felt the urge to ask anyway.

The rider looked down to the side and gave the straps a critical look.

“Yes, I am, as always."

“Are you sure?" she asked in a worried tone.

“Mhm."

Saphira looked up and made brief eye contact with Eragon, then she averted her gaze feeling embarrassed.

“I do appreciate your concern my Saphira." He repliedin warm tone.

“You know better than me the ins and outs of saddles anyway." She curled her neck away from him. He looked down, noticing her paw clenched and unclenched leaving marks on wood from sharp talons.

“Hey, you're not bad at it either" he replied as he rubbed her neck. After a moment he added “let's go, my dear."

***

After taking off, the pair headed east down the river. The prey usually goes there to quench thirst, so it was the best shot for them. However, even though the landscape had been slowly changing throughout the entire expedition, they were surprised by the sudden change only a little further downstream... The tree line was almost at the water line thus Edda's banks did not have enough space for Saphira to dive and grab an animal in her claws safely. The attempt would end up with her most likely crashing into trees. Broken limbs could be healed, but even something like a thick tree branch could penetrate a dragon's body and kill it instantly. Glaedr was reluctant to go to the lakes they spotted yesterday due to the distance from the ship. Saphira and Eragon expressed similar concern but there wasn't another choice. Saphira made sure to not fly toward the lake they visited before. She had a bad feeling about it.

The sun was climbing in the sky, warming Eragon with its rays. Thankfully, it didn't shine straight into his face, so he didn't have to use magic to see. As usual, the light made the dragoness' scales shine like gems, reflecting various hues of dark blue. Once again, the rider couldn't take his eyes from that view.

His mouth moved faster than his mind could fully decide if it's a good idea to say the thought out loud.

“Your scales are so beautiful" he whispered an honest compliment.

In the air, it was difficult to talk but his mind was still open to Saphira. She was caught off guard, to the point she skipped a wing swing and glided for a moment. Only then Eragon realised how out of place his words were and he felt a little embarrassed, even though he really meant what he said. Saphira was confused but her remaining draconic pride liked what it heard.

“Thank you, Little One" she spoke and began flapping her wings with more enthusiasm.

“You're… welcome."

Naturally, Glaedr heard the entire confession and he frowned, wandering why the rider said something like this now. In general humanoid races are reserved regarding giving compliments after all. Curiosity got the better of him and decided to observe the pair even closer from now on.

Eragon decided to use his old way to deal with a unusual situation like this and he changed the topic.

“Do you see prey near the banks of the lake below, Saphira?"

“Not yet" she replied slowly. Then she turned her body to make wide circles around the lake and lower her altitude. She looked around for prey, but with subtle movement of her head. The long neck was like a birds' pinion, it could change the flight direction fairly quickly.

The rider reached out with his magic to find potential prey. He began at the tree line and went further. Then, after half a minute, he noticed a medium sized flock of deer heading to the lake. He smiled, the fate is in their favour. However …

“There is little space for a safe dive…" he said out loud.

“What do you mean, Little One?"

“I sensed a herd of deer coming toward the lake from the west but I have a feeling there is too little space for you to grab one of them in a diving flight" he finished concerned.

Saphira gave the forest line a good look, confirming Eragon's deduction.

“Well… Let's do it the old fashioned way!" she declared, then began her landing approach.

After a moment she flapped her wings rapidly to decelerate, almost hovering above the ground. She bent her limbs to absorb the impact then folded her wings. Eragon quickly dismounted and put his sword back on his belt. He and Saphira looked around, analysing the surrounding area, trying to get an idea of how to deal with the hunt in quite a difficult terrain for the large dragon.

“Hmm… I could hide near the treeline… uh… over there" Saphira sent a mental image of the gap between some trees. However, the image was blurred for Eragon.

“Is it that place?" he sent his interpretation of the information he got.

“Mhm, I'll let them pass me as they head down to the water… Then I'll block their escape route, trapping them between myself and the water. And... you…" She shook her head to push back sudden dizziness.

_“And I'll startle them, driving them to your position..." _

“Saphira…?" He paused for a moment. “You have trouble concentrating."

“Yes," she replied in a tired and defeated tone.

“Hey… We will catch your breakfast and you'll feel better with a full belly," he wrapped her mind in a reassuring hug.

After withdrawing from her mind, he focused on the task at hand.

Eragon couldn't just become invisible and stay on the beach. So his plan was to hide at the bush that grew a few yards away toward the North. Meanwhile, Saphira headed southwest and then went west to the spot making quite a bit of noise, which was quite unusual for such a skilled hunter as herself. The rider could feel something may go wrong with this hunt, but he allowed her to take the lead and only did what he could to improve her chances. Eragon didn't forget to mask her footprints on the ground, as well as her scent in this place. Technically, he could kill a deer with one word of death that he was taught, but he refused to use them as a means of getting food. The thought of taking a life without effort sent shivers down his spine. The old-fashioned hunt gives the prey a chance to escape. Giving the thick forest a quick glance, the rider could feel something may go wrong with this hunt.

He trusted in her judgement. Being able to hunt on its own is an important part of a dragon's life, it's like taking the first steps as a child perhaps. Dragons who were not able to do that had been considered weaker. No one can have a perfect success rate of hunting, but often failures make them less desirable as potential partners in the eyes of other dragons. It was something Eragon did remember when Oromis told him to read scrolls about their culture. He didn't want to take away the chance for Saphira to prove herself. It was part of her, like the ability to fly.

He felt Saphira crouching down in a dimple in the ground, there was enough space for her to do a leap and catch anything passing by.

Focusing on the task, he reached out with his thoughts toward the incoming herd of deer. They were just two hundred yards away.

“They're coming," he said and exchanged his knowledge about their whereabouts with Saphira.

“I smell them" the dragoness replied.

The air was blowing from the north and thanks to that, the herd couldn't smell the dragoness close to them. Saphira couldn't take a peek from the dimple where she was. Her sapphire scales would be easy to spot by those animals and would cause them to bolt. Therefore, Eragon and Saphira needed to rely entirely on their bond to locate the prey in the forest. Suddenly, the dragoness had a lapse of concentration again. Usually, she could hear her partner-of-mind-and-heart's thoughts clearly, but at that moment the bond became cloudy, like someone was obscuring it in an irregular pattern. Her mind registered what was shown but a second later she couldn't recall it at all. Her lack of focus worried her somewhat, but it didn't seem to be a serious threat, so she cast her doubts aside. She had more pressing matters to consider ... like not failing this hunt! She could only hope that it was an isolated incident and it would not happen again.

The herd was coming out from the forest and cautiously approached the bank. There were a few of them, they looked healthy to Eragon's eyes. He took a good look and send that picture to the dragoness in woods so she could choose a target if she wished to. Her feelings told Eragon she would pick whichever came closest.

They waited for the deer to get used to the new environment and lower theirguard. The rider watched each deer quenching its thirst and took short breaks in between, looking around trying to spot an incoming threat. Their ears moved from side to side, trying to detect the slightest noise that would warn them in time to flee to safety. Eragon looked at them for the last time, knowing one of them would end up in Saphira's belly. There is no other option, he thought firmly. With such determination, he set the final part of the plan into action as he sent a mental nod to Saphira. With a shout, he got up from the ground and ran toward the flock.

At once all the deer spotted strange bipedal creature running towards them and instincts told them to react in the only logical way. Flee. Like they were struck by a bolt, they began running away southwest and entered the thick forest. The rider ran after them using his elven stamina and strength. Saphira was waiting to the west, so to correct their path he used his mind to trick their senses sending thoughts of a false danger waiting for them to the south if they continued on that path. The animals reacted immediately and ran straight at Saphira.

Meanwhile, Saphira watched the chase through the mental pictures her Little One kept sending. She felt his adrenaline rush, excitement, and determination like he hadn't felt for a while. The dragoness couldn't recall when was the last time he participated in the hunt. Maybe he missed that even though he didn't realise it, she thought. She could sense his feelings well enough, but that irregular obscuration of their bond came back and she only received a blurry image, barely recognizable as the forest and the deer. With her own mind's reach, Saphira sensed the prey was almost at her position. She crouched lower to use the push of her powerful hind legs to leap her into the air. She knew there would be little space, so she had one chance to pounce on the deer that was still unaware of her presence.

“Saphira, get ready!" the voice of her rider was the final clue. She heard the sound of hooves hitting the ground and the rustle of bushes. She pounced.With wings pressed tightly to her body, her legs pushed her forward and she burst from the dimple where she had been hiding. She twisted her body in the direction the deer just as they were running pass, her talons spread ready to sink into tender flesh. Suddenly, her bond was obscured again and Saphira even completely lost sight for a moment. When she regained it, her eyes opened wide at the sight of a strong tree in front of her. It was too late to do anything to avoid it.

Eragon kept running after the herd when he felt a sudden pain from his bond, coming from his Saphira. And then there was nothing. His eyes widened in horror.

“Saphira!" he shouted and ran to where he had last sensed the dragoness.

Anxious about his bond-mate, he vaguely recalled the escaping meal she so desperately needed. He barely considered his actions as he flung a word of death at a straggler from the fleeing herd, not really noticing as the creature sized up and collapsed to the ground. Instead, he continued his headlong rush through the undergrowth towards his dragoness.

She lay there motionless on her side, curled in a weird pose with the trunk of the tree next to her. The impact left a scratch on the surface and a few scales could be seen stuck in the wood. One of her wings was spread to the side carelessly, the other was beneath her heavy body. Eragon's eyes widen at the sight and he ran straight toward her head. He jumped over her tail and moved alongside her back to her head. He kneeled next to it and extended his mind and magic towards her.

“Check her vitals" Glaedr spoke up with barely hidden nervousness.

“She still breaths," Eragon said in relief.

At a quick glance, she seemed okay. However, she was unconscious and the rider felt her flesh was bruised and a few bones fractured. On the surface, it didn't look good either. She was missing a fair bit of scales on top of her muzzle and head. There was only soft irritated skin remaining. He looked up at the tree and wondered how the scales just fell off. Maybe her poor mental state affected her more than he had realized, the rider thought worriedly.

Without wasting more time, he extended his palm and said “Waise Hail!"

A golden glow appeared in his palms and he started moving them above the dragoness' head with a determined focus. He poured his life power, and that of the Eldunarii still with them over her to treat her internal wounds and ease her pain. The rider healed tissue after tissue and fixed fractured bones, minimising damage caused by the unfortunate accident. Eragon hoped the only thing she would have to deal with is a slight headache when she regained consciousness. His body was shaking despite his will to remain still. Nervous eyes were looking at places where he found a wound with his mind. The last spot was healed and he released the flow of magic.

Glaedr was quiet through the whole ordeal as he was sharing his strength, his student did what was necessary. Then he spoke up to the rider.

“Try to put her head on your lap and raise her nose to the air a bit".

Eragon sat next to her and then lifted the muzzle and placed it on his lap carefully. The flow of fresh air would help her regain consciousness. The rider still couldn't control the shaking of his body even though he tried his best to calm it down. He reached out a hand and touched the uncovered part of her muzzle, his fingertips gliding over her soft skin. As he continued petting his beloved Saphira his heart rate was stabilising.

How odd it was to see her so defenseless and in some way defeated, Eragon thought. His heart and mind were filled with worry for his dragoness. He wanted to see her happy and healthy so badly. They have only each other, to be honest. With her on his lap, another person who he had found himself close to once, was recalled to his mind briefly. Arya. Beautiful, wise, with an aura of mystery surrounding her to some degree. The time he spent with her was not always joyful but he valued it nonetheless. However, why did it feel so meaningless, as if it was a hole in his heart that had begun to spread? Was it something he had known for a long time but he couldn't or didn't want to admit? He wasn't sure.

His mind came back from a journey to the past and Eragon realised he had stopped stroking his dragoness. His hands were still laying limply on the bridge of her snout. Upset with his wandering mind, he repositioned one hand to affectionately cup a cheek, while the other remained where it wasgently petting her. Looking at her made him want to care about more than he used to. To hold her in his arms as she lay with her back on his chest, even though it wasn't possible. To wake up and give her a sweet morning kiss… His mind began blending with her unconscious one and he wrapped it with intense love while he was trying to wake up a missing part of his soul. He whispered quietly to her to come back to him as he ran his fingers over her exposed soft skin.

He reached out and started rubbing her sensitive ear, moving his fingers back and forth. He noticed her heartbeat increased with each stroke. Every glide sent a strong impulse to the unconscious mind, trying its best to reach its destination. The rider's mood began to sour once again as his probing and caress didn't yield the expected results. Despite the dragoness' body responding to his action, her beautiful mind remained in darkness.

“Please, wake up…"

Eragon embraced her head and pressed it close to his chest as he rockedback and forth in place. The young man could hear his fast heartbeat in his own ears, it seemed like his entire body was shaking from it. He closed his eyes and leaned his cheek on top of her head, fighting off his climbing anxiety.

“Wake up…" a tear ran down his face.

The entire place became silent.

He heard a sharp inhale and then there was a subtle jerk of her head. As suddenly as lightning, Saphira regained consciousness. Like a person lost in the dark, trying to find the one she missed for so long her mind brushed the rider's one barely. Eragon rushed her with his thoughts, grabbing her soul with all the loving care he could muster, not able to keep his excitement and relief back.

“Saphira! You're back!"

The dragoness almost uttered a tired and painful grunt, feeling a bit lost as Eragon held her mind with his own in a tight embrace.

“Litte One… wha… what happened? My head…" she said as she struggled to roll on her stomach without leaving her rider's grasp. She doubted she could hold her head aloft herself at this moment anyway. Dull pain resonated in their bond.

“You hit a tree with your head…" After a pause, he added “you lost consciousness… and …"

Saphira was silent for a moment, trying to recall the event from her memory. The last thing she could remember clearly was Eragon warning her to get ready for ... something? She looked at the tree with the corner of her eyesight and spotted the missing bark and… her scales? The last part was answered as she felt Eragon caressing her scaleless skin on top of her muzzle.

She was silent for a moment.

“I was so worried…" Eragon continued with despair, her silence making him fear the injuries might have affected her mind_._

“It aches but I'm fine…" She leaned into her rider's embrace, looking for comfort. “Just give me a moment… My Little One…" she whispered in his mind in a tired but affectionate tone.

She breathed fast, trying to spread air through her body hoping it'd help clear her mind. Saphira pressed her muzzle firmer against her beloved one, looking for safety. Eragon tightened and lessened the hold in a pattern as he swayed slightly. From a distance, it looked like someone was trying to lull a baby to sleep. As he stroked his fingers over her exposed skin, shivers ran through her entire body. Such caresses used to tickle her, but now it was a completely different feeling; she cooed.

The dragoness shifted her muzzle then nestled her nose near Eragon's shoulder. Nostrils widened and shrunk with each breath. Her mind was savouring his scent filling up her lungs. Warmth began spreading from her belly, then slowly it expanded throughout the rest of her body. When it reached her muzzle, it started to soothe away the pain. Her breathing calmed down and slowly she relaxed, despite the faint but noticeable ache.

A few minutes passed, then she felt a sudden urge to repay her rider. Testing her muscles' strength, she carefully twisted her neck. Her Little One reluctantly released her as he watched, judging her moves. Saphira raised her muzzle carefully, then leaned in toward the rider's face. She hovered there, exhaling warm air on Eragon. He looked at her in awe, unsure what she was going to do. From here he could see the area without scales, starting from just right of the bridge of her muzzle and going up to above her eyebrow. Absently, he noticed that the skin was as blue as her scales. Saphira waited till her rider made eye contact. As soon as he did, she let out a soft croon, then leaned her head forward.

She extended her tongue and licked his cheek tenderly using the barbless tip. Her mind entwined with Eragon's in a loving embrace. The dragoness closed her eyes as she let herself be carried away by emotions without paying attention to the world around her. Only her Little One mattered. Soon, she felt his palm on her cheek and such a simple gesture caused warmth that quickly spread to her loins. She couldn't help but began purring and soon she heard Eragon giggle. It gave her an idea. She opened her eyes a bit and licked his neck with a quick tongue swipe. Saphira heard her rider gasp and she giggled in their bond.

The dragoness placed her muzzle on the rider's shoulder and twisted like a cat welcoming its owner. Eragon could feel the deep purr resonating through her body. Seeing Saphira happy made his heart swell. After a moment she curled her neck back, then looked straight into his eyes with those brilliant sapphire eyes. They looked into one another souls with thoughts and emotions flowing through their minds at an incredible rate.

Eragon wanted to experience what he just did with her more often. To express his love for her in such a way, not only through their mind link and reserved gestures. His chest felt like it was going to burst at any moment. The idea formed in his mind closed even from his dragoness, one that he had never considered before. A certain herbalist once told him “an epic romance is in your future, extraordinary… strong enough to outlast empires…" A smile appeared on his face, “She is powerful, wise, and beautiful beyond compare…" as soon as he recalled it, his eyes roamed around his partner-of-mind-and-heart's muzzle, hypnotized by her beauty and soul. Was it possible the one from the prophecy is right in front of him? If so, does he have a chance with such beauty? The last comment left his hidden place as his emotions didn't let him focus fully.

Meanwhile, Saphira had her own moment of reflection. She looked into his eyes full of adoration as her mind basked in the gentle caress of his soul. She closed her eyes savouring it as her purring intensified. At this moment the dragoness felt she could overcome any obstacle that fate throws at her. It was the first time since the departure from Alagaesia that she felt confident, and her Little One is the key to her happiness. “…such beauty" she heard through the bond faintly. Her lower abdomen became even warmer and Saphira couldn't help but wiggle her hips and tail… Then she looked at him with loving eyes, taking in his strong posture and gentle facial features that are not entirely human nor elven. He grew to be a handsome male… The excitement in her mind allowed her to ignore the dull pain still lingering in her head. All thanks to her Little One.

Both were lost in their little world as they realised from now on their bond had become even closer than it used to be. It seemed the experience lasted for hours, but soon the beauty of the moment diminished. Still, whatever they felt was imprinted on their memory and soul.

Eragon's mind caught up what he felt and heat began spreading on his cheek.

“You're welcome… my dear" he added after a pause_. “I... I'll bring the… deer… I'll be right back"_ he said in a hasty voice as he got up.

Saphira tilted her muzzle in confusion, observing his body language and sensing his embarrassment.

“Don't go too far from me!" she called after him in a distressed tone as he disappeared behind some bushes. The dragoness grumbled while she was recalling the intimate moment in her mind, her thoughts got more clear and she started to wonder if she did something wrong. Still, they both felt good, sharing the moment of intimacy. She could still feel an intense warmth in her loins and pleasant one in the rest of the body…

The thought of loins made her cease her train of thoughts immediately. Saphira raised her wing as she curled her neck toward her lower abdomen. She looked at it for a few seconds with her mind trying to process what the warmth might mean. Last time she felt like this was when she met … Him…

“No… It couldn't be that…" her mood began to sour. “The old wound is just acting up again…" she whispered. Sometimes it aches, burns or is intensively warm, every time she had hidden that fact from everyone. Saphira looked back toward the place where her rider went, then lower her muzzle to the ground. Her eyelids dropped as she kept her gaze focussed on nothing.

“Hurry up, my Little One," she whimpered.

***

Meanwhile, Eragon was going through his own turmoil.

He was shaken by the fact that the idea of Saphira becoming the one that was foretold by Angela had even crossed his mind. 'How would that even work?' he thought. The bond between them was remarkably close and strong, but it wasn't meant to cross that line. Was it? He asked himself at once and to his dismay, he felt a strong conflict in his heart. The memory of her sapphire eyes looking at him with adoration didn't help either. The rider felt tense while he was walking toward the carcass of deer and he did his best to avoid revealing his thoughts in their mind bond.

Justwhen he thought the matter couldn't get any worse, Glaedr spoke up.

“Well done, Eragon," the Eldunarii spoke, taking pride in him.

The rider's heart skipped a beat, he felt like he didn't deserve the praise but he chose to not comment on it.

“I'll do everything for her… I thought… She wouldn't… wake up," a shudder ran down his spine.

“We all fear for the fate of our loved ones," he replied, choosing his words carefully.

Eragon's eyes widened under the influence of the golden dragon's words. He became increasingly aware of Glaedr's curiosity like he had found something that really intrigued him. Then, the Eldunarii withdrew from his mind. The rider decided to just nod in reply, fearing words would reveal his inner conflict.

He finally reached the spot where the deer had fallen. The carcass was still in perfect condition as if the creature was only caught sleeping and would get up and run off at any moment. There were no obvious wounds one would expect from natural hunting, so how did it …?

With a shock, Eragon suddenly remembered what he had done in the heat of the moment when he was rushing as fast as he could to get to Saphira. Suddenly a little nauseated, he found himself swaying slightly, and had to lean against a tree least his legs give out beneath him. What had he done?

“Is everything alright, young one?" Glaedr suddenly asked a little worriedly.

“I … I killed this creature with magic!" Eragon managed to say.

“I saw," the elder Eldunarii replied. “A good spell, you should be proud."

“But I vowed never to kill with a word of death!" Eragon growled at himself. “I vowed not to take any life this easily … to give everything a fair chance at life."

“Right," Glaedr replied, suddenly understanding the revelation his young human student had. The elder Eldunarii pondered for a moment, before offering his wisdom to the distressed man. “It is an honourable ideal, to respect all life enough not to cast it aside without thought. However, in this instance, I feel that you have not done anything wrong."

“What do you mean, Elbrithil?" Eragon asked.

“I saw what happened," Glaedr reminded him. “I felt your emotions, your concern for Saphira. You were worried about her safety … her health. When you spoke the word of death, you were only thinking about her well-being and not your sense of morality. And that is also an honourable action in its own right."

It was true, Eragon suddenly realized. “I will do anything for her!" he declared, aloud this time.

“Even break through cultural barriers, it seems!" Glaedr chuckled, but the comment made Eragon feeling a little cold. It was uncomfortably close to the thoughts he was struggling with as he was walking here. Come to think about it again, what would Glaedr say if he and Saphira ever went that far?

“Making an easy kill is not something to be ashamed about," the elder Eldunari continued, apparently oblivious to Eragon's musings and taking his silence for acceptance. “But wasting life by leaving the meat uneaten is unforgivable! Saphira is waiting for us."

“Yes, Elbrithil!" Eragon replied, actually feeling better about how he had killed the deer. He offered a quick prayer that the animal would find its rest before he lifted it with a grunt and walked back to the dragoness.