Wyrda: Father of Dragons (Eragon Book 5)

Chapter 2: Du Skulblaka Ramr

                   Two months had flown by since the Talita embarked on its momentous journey to the Dragons' new homeland. Eragon found himself constantly pushed to his limits as he eagerly absorbed every ounce of knowledge the eldunarya had to offer. The ancient beings imparted invaluable lessons on history and sciences, expanding Eragon's understanding and equipping him with the necessary tools to educate the future riders. However, the eldunarya were insistent that Eragon delve deeper into the realm of magic, a privilege reserved only for the lead riders. Each morning, Eragon engaged in rigorous sword fighting sessions with Blodgharm, honing his physical combat skills. Once their blades ceased clashing, he turned his attention to the art of mental dueling with Yasmira. Fael, on the other hand, guided him through the intricate applications of magic, particularly in the domains of water and fire, where Eragon displayed remarkable aptitude. Exhausted but determined, Eragon would then take to the skies with his loyal dragon companion, Saphira, embarking on exploratory flights to scout potential locations for the new Dragon city. Unfortunately, their search had thus far proven fruitless, as no place offered the necessary space and protection required. As the day drew to a close, Eragon would find solace in his waking dreams, slipping into a realm where his mind could rest and rejuvenate. The weight of his responsibilities and the intensity of his training would momentarily fade away, allowing him to find respite in the realm of dreams. Despite the exhaustion that plagued him, Eragon remained steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge and the fulfillment of his destiny as the future leader of the Dragon riders.

            Eragon's heart sank as he gazed into the vast expanse before him. The journey seemed to stretch on endlessly, with no sign of an end in sight. Each day only pushed them further away from civilization, making it increasingly difficult for new dragons to locate them. Doubt gnawed at Eragon's mind, wondering if they would ever discover a sanctuary where they could finally find solace and establish a place to call home. The weight of uncertainty pressed upon him, like an invisible burden he couldn't shake off.

 Suddenly, Blodgharm's voice broke through Eragon's thoughts, jolting him back to reality. 

"Ready Shadeslayer?" The seasoned warrior's question hung in the air, stirring a mix of emotions within Eragon. He looked up at Blodgharm, his eyes reflecting a blend of weariness and determination. The name "Shadeslayer" echoed in his mind, a reminder of the immense responsibility he carried. Eragon took a deep breath, steeling himself for the challenges that lay ahead. Despite the doubts that plagued him, he knew he had to press on, for the fate of their kind rested on his shoulders.

As Eragon met Blodgharm's gaze, he felt a surge of renewed determination coursing through his veins. The weight of their arduous journey seemed to momentarily lift, replaced by a flicker of hope. He nodded at Blodgharm, his voice steady as he replied, "Yes, I am ready." 

                Positioned opposite Eragon, his eyes locked on his opponent, the tension in the air was palpable. Eragon's grip tightened around the hilt of Brisingr as he prepared himself for the impending duel. The weight of the sword felt reassuring in his hands, a symbol of his determination and training. With each passing moment, he could feel the adrenaline coursing through his veins, heightening his senses and sharpening his focus. He remembered Glaedr's advice and tried to understand Blodgharm and how he would attack. His eyes never left his opponent, analyzing every movement, every twitch of the muscles, searching for any sign of weakness. The duel began in a flurry of action, Blodgharm lunging forward with a ferocious strike aimed at Eragon's leg. Reacting swiftly, Eragon stepped back, narrowly avoiding the blow. Determined not to be outmatched, he retaliated with a powerful strike towards Blodgharm's side. However, his opponent's skill was formidable, as he deftly blocked the attack, the clash of their blades resonating in the air. Eragon's quick thinking came into play as he feinted towards Blodgharm's left arm, only to change direction mid-stroke, landing a light blow on his opponent's shoulder. The battle intensified, Blodgharm launching a relentless assault of blows. Eragon's training and reflexes allowed him to block most of the strikes, but a sharp pain seared through his hip as one blow landed. Despite the injury, Eragon refused to yield, his determination unwavering as he fought through the pain, his every movement a testament to his resilience.