Look Beyond The Horizon [Nandon/ Open]

[Nepherion]

Nepherion gazed towards the sky for a little while longer before slapping his hands onto his thighs and standing up. He stretched his arms up into the air, letting loose a yawn. " Well, I guess it's about time I head to bed. Nandon-elda you should sleep too. I get the feeling tomorrow's journey will not be as easy as today. The nomads of this desert are very territorial, not to mention the potential threat of the Empire. Things will get interesting. " He warned before gripping the sheathe of his sword and heading towards the slumbering Starlight. Who now, let loose several deep rumbles as he snored throughout the night. Nepherion grabbed the small blanket off the ground as he headed towards Starlight. He leaned his blade against his side before placing himself against the Dragon. For a few moments he studied the sky over him. Surprisingly the dark veil was clear of clouds. He thought about the werecat's fortune for him. Tomorrow will bring us one step closer to the prize. A Rider's true weapon. " He snuggled up against the warmth of Starlight's alabaster scales, before slowly drifting into sleep.

In the land of dreams, Nepherion pictured himself flying over a great battlefield. The countless soldiers underneath him roared as their swords clashed and arrows flew. One of the arrows whizzed pass his face, barely missing as Starlight dove into combat with another Dragon. One that held scales of emerald and eyes of gold. As the two forces came closer and closer towards one another the light of morning woke the boy and ended the illusion.

His eyes flickered open and looked around the campsite. The fire had been doused, and the endless grains of sand seemed roused by the westwards wind. The sun beat down on Nepherion with waves of heat. Imploring him to tug at Starlight's mind to wake him up. The dragon shook a little before opening his crimson eyes. A yawn that erupted throughout the campsite swept with a growl under tone. Wake up Starlight, We must head out before the sun reaches its peak. He said, standing to his feet with strained trouble on his legs.

[Nandon]

Nandons nods as nepherion walks into the tent and nandon slowly closes his eyes and drifts to his waking dreams... Nandon dreamed of a elf... woman... fighting towards the edge of du weldelvarder... it seemed to be older... The elf was a female and she weilded a weapon much like nandons but it was teal... and at her side stood a dragon which was teal but it was a wild dragon.... nandon frowned this was strange... slowly the fighting dulled and the woman looked straight at Nandon "Hello halfling..." the figure said and moved forwrard then she vanished and the dream was over...
Nandon woke up as nepherion walked out of the tent "Yes... lets go..."

[Nepherion]

Though he woke everyone else up, Nepherion himself was wrestling with the drowsiness of early morning. He staggered up to his feet and without any body of water in sight pulled up what little he could from the soil and splashed himself. Afterwards he packed up his belongings, rolling them up into a bundle and placing them near Starlight's saddle. He walked passed Nandon, flashing a salute and greeting him. " Nice to see you're actually here this time Nandon-elda." He said jokingly. Afterwards he walked over to Starlight with the saddle under his arm. Bend please. He asked. As Starlight lowered himself, Nepherion begin to bunker the saddle ontop of him. Tightening the straps was the final step to the process. With a smile he wiped the sweat from his forehead. " Okay. Now to Du Fells. " He said to himself.

Nepherion sat in the saddle, waiting for Nandon. His stuff was packed high in the back of it. His sword held tight to his hip as he clipped the white cloak on his shoulder. For the first time that morning, Starlight had finally spoken to Nepherion. Nepherion. Are you ready ? His voice was filled with a sense of caution and worry. Nepherion patted the side of Starlight's neck. No worries. I can feel your emotions remember. We will make it there and back to Varden to continue our training soon. He said, reassuring the dragon of their small journey. Than his voice lowered as he pondered on drifting words. " When in need of a weapon. " Nepherion begin. Search the Hadarac Desert, in the mountains of Dragons. Starlight finished. Turning his snout to the side, he placed an crimson eye on the boy. Are you ready to Ride !?!? He roared, raising his wings towards the sky. Nepherion gripped tightly to an ivory spike. Always ! He yelled with just as much excitement. The two faced north towards Du Fells Nangoroth. The ancestral home of Starlight and all other dragons before and after him. The journey would end there and offer up a new weapon for him to combat with.

[Nandon]

Nandon nodded and stepped into starlighs saddle then looked at nepherion before saying "I'm going to be sleeping through today's journey... Wake me if you need anything... If not wake me when we get to our camp... Nandon said wanted to finish the dream he had had last night.. Slowly Nandon closed his eyes and welcomed the dream back... The elf woman was there was again and she seemed to stare at him again then she said once again "Welcome back half-ling son of forsworn and Arylis...We have much to discuss..." She said beckoning Nandon over... Nandon complied and began walking with the woman "You and I have much in common... Neither of us are the "Traditional elves..." She said and patted the wild dragon on the snout "This is fafnir... And i am Amber..." She said speaking slowly and looking back at Nandon "My name is Nandon... But please tell me... How are you not like most elves? You seem like a normal one to me?" Nandon said cautiously and wondering slightly who she was. She chuckled then spoke "We both know that appearance aren't everything... If you must know I am a full elf... but i have lived among humans my entire life... which most elves look down on..." She said slowly and Nandon nodded sympathetically knowing the feeling of being looked down on by elves.. The woman slowly laughed insanely "And look who i am now! One of those fighting with are wonderful wonderful king!" She said and pointed back to the battle field where hundreds of slaughtered elves lay and nandon was breathless "You see... I am within you...But you keep me bottled up... But you cant tell me you wouldn't want to take revenge on the elves who did so much harm to you as a child for having a father that was not your fault." The woman said in a almost pleading voice as she looked at Nandon then Nandon shook his head quickly though abit delayed "NO! I... I could never hurt...My family...And..." Nandon trailed off uncertainly "And what your Friends? Who teased you everyday of your life!" The woman scoffed! "NO! Stop it! I will not give in!" the woman growled and her face changed to reveal the dark king and he growled in a voice sounding like honey "Then you are stronger than i thought Elf!" Then the dream vanished and Nandon instantly sat straight up in the saddle alert as he checked all his mind barriers "By god..." he whispered silently terrified by what he had just seen.

[Nepherion]

Starlight started off into a jumbled mess of leaps until finally he took off for flight. His wings locked into place once he was several meters into the air. Nepherion looked over his shoulder towards the sleeping Nandon. " Alright. " He said, quietly. The day's current seemed calm much to Starlight's surprise. Since he had entered the treacherous climate of the Hadarac Desert, the wind has always push against him. Now though, he was riding on a northward wind that had blown from nowhere. With a snort from his nostrils, Starlight shared his recent findings with Nepherion. Nepherion held on tight to an ivory spike, noticing for the first time that the wind was actually bearing down on his back. That is a little weird. I've never felt it on my back. He admitted, looking towards Starlight's tail bone. It wave slowly against the wind that pushed him forwards, acting as a rudder for the currents of the sky. " Why do I feel like it's pushing us towards the Dragon's island. " Nepherion asked. Starlight kept his head forwards. Because it is. He said with complete seriousness. Nepherion looked on with a sense of uneasiness, his eyes burrowed into the endless sands ahead of them. Something isn't right here. Nepherion decreed.

After hours of traveling northwards the sun was into it's late descent. The sky had been painted with orange and pink, signs of the approaching moon was showing itself. It was than that Du Fells came over the sand's horizon. The rocky terrain stretched wide, but was nothing more than a spec in the vast sands that surrounded it. Nepherion felt an unsettling note in Starlight's next words. Who's to know what dangers lurk on this ancient land. Nepherion smiled before directing Starlight to the island's ground. He impacted on the rocky terrain, lowering his body so that Nepherion could get off. With double twin thumps from his boot , Nepherion landed on the island, first searching with his eyes. A grim sight indeed, few trees resided among the mountainous back drop. It looks abandoned, completely devoid of life. Or maybe not ? He closed his eyes, reaching his hand out towards the forest. His mind searched the land for any sentient beings. A couple of rare insects, a few birds, and a family of mammals. Nothing out of the ordinary he thought. Than towards the end of his mental search, Nepherion ran into a iron wall. A wall so tight, and complicated that not even a ant could crawl through a crack in it. His eyes snapped opened as he peered into the forest.

Their's someone else here ! Starlight took a step forwards. Shall we investigate? He asked. Nepherion shook his head than begin to walk. " I'll investigate. Nandon-elda is still sleeping. I should be able to handle this myself. "
Well you won't be going alone. I refuse to leave you. Starlight replied
" I can handle myself. I don't need you with me all the time."
Hmp. I'd rather stay by your side. How do we know this being isn't a magician from the Rmpire. Nepherion looked down towards the ground, thinking on the barrier he encountered earlier. " That's no human magician. If I had to put my finger on it. I would say it was an elf. The complexity of the barrier show centuries of concentration. It was impenetrable. " Starlight simply snorted at the Rider's conclusion. Even more reason for me to come. Seeing that he couldn't convince the dragon, he begin to walk deeper into the forest. He searched the forest countless more times before finally pinpointing the location of the being. Stopping at the beginning of a large cliff that looked to stretch at least a mile high into the sky. The cliff was smooth, devoid of any hand holds. Are you not glad I came now ? Starlight asked smugly. Nepherion rolled his eyes nonchalantly before crawling back onto the saddle.

Starlight circled around the cliff until he could take off. He soared high above until finally he made it to the summit. There the ground was surrounded with mist. The dragon landed several meters from the man that Nepherion assumed was the one he felt. Be careful Starlight. No sudden movements. Nepherion said as he climbed down. You be careful Nepherion. The Rider walked from the dragon towards the man. His hand held tight to his blade. He could feel Starlight ready to attack if needed. Nepherion looked through the mist and noticed the pointed ears. " What are you doing here Elf ? " He said. Starlight, wake Nandon-elda. I may need him. With a shake of his body, Starlight probed the elf's mind. Nandon.. Nandon ! The youthful dragon said. This may be more treacherous than originally thought.

[Nandon]

Nandon who was wide awake at this point as he checked his mind barriers felt starlights probe and he paniced not knowing who it was and he shot back a mental lance before realizing who it was "Sorry starlight...That dream...It..." nandon trailed off unable to discribe it before he rolled out of the saddle his sword staff drawn unconsiously as he wandered to nepherions side eying the elf cautiously

[Nepherion]

Starlight shook his head as if he had experienced some extreme discomfort. He let out a powerful snort from his nostrils, expelling jets of dark smoke. The dragon rose up. He was a little older than 3 months now. He was imposing and more shaped out. His body embodied the aspect of a balanced fighter. He didn't excel at any one area, but was equally good in both flight and physical combat. His limbs were strong and built with lean muscles, his body tighten at the core and his wings were large enough to support him. The dragon's two bone-white teeth jutted out his lower jaw and overlapped his upper. It's tail was bony and lined with ivory spikes that ended with trident shaped spears curving around it. Starlight looked at Nandon with an angered gaze as he walked by. Nepherion, Nandon is on his way.

Nepherion drew his blade, letting the tip touch the stone floor. The thick mist shrouded the blade for the most part. " I'll ask no more ! If you don't answer me I'll - " The elf looked up with yellow piercing eyes. The stare almost made Nepherion drop his blade, if not for the fortitude of Starlight's mind. " You'll what ? " He interrupted. His voice smooth like a calm stream. Forever flowing and noble, he sounded like an elf weighted down by exceptional years, except with a deeper tone. " I thought for a second you were the one that I awaited for. But no Rider would dare speak with such insolence. " Nepherion eyed the elf with a powerful gaze. Before he had the chance to speak, Starlight came through the vast mist, his long head poking out with snarling teeth. Do not insult my Rider elf ! I will not stand for it. His crimson eye peered into the elf with complete animosity. The elf's eyes widen at Starlight's appearance. He stood up and reveal his 6'0" ft stature. His body was long and his bleach blond hair was wrapped with several bands in a pony tail, except for two lengthy bangs that hung along his ears. " Maybe I spoke too soon. " He said, coming closer to the dragon. He seemed to ignore Nepherion and Nandon, which pissed Nepherion off a little. His hand gripped the blue leather of the broadsword.

A low growl escaped from Starlight's fangs. Come no closer !! Less you aim to end your life. He roared. Nepherion ran and stood between the dragon and elf. His cerulean glare lowered as he picked at his uneasiness. " Something isn't right here. What is it that you want with us ? " The elf smiled. " My business is actually with all of you. But more so, my business is with you and your dragon. " He stated before placing his hands behind his back. His flawless white garbs flowed smoothly on the ground as he walked back and squatted on the rock. Nepherion loosened his grip on his blade. I do not trust this elf. said Starlight. You don't trust anyone. Though I can see why. He seemed completely calm when you roared at him, not many can do that against you.... He took a moment to think. I think he has something to do with the fortune. Nepherion finally admitted. Starlight lowered his head ontop of Nepherion's shoulder, keeping a close eye on the elf. Are you sure ? It does seemed that he was expecting us.

Nepherion nodded silently. I'll go talk to the elf. Stay close to me and Nandon. I can tell his strength his extraordinary. Starlight lifted himself back to his normal height, eyeing the elf for any movements. Nepherion walked through the mist over to Nandon, sheathing his blade along the way. " If you know him, now is the time to get reacquainted with him ? " He warned. He covered his mind with barricades and placed quick wards on Starlight and himself before heading off towards the elf. A feeling of fatigue touched the boy. d**n. I probably shouldn't have that. He thought. Starlight stepped behind him, making small tremors as they drew closer to the elf. By the time they had approached him, he had already made himself comfortable again. " So tell me, why are you here on the Du Fells -" The elf interrupted him. " You mean Du Fells Nángoröth, please use it's correct name. It's dishonorable to your dragon, boy. " Nepherion's brow furrowed at the correction. " Why are you here on Du Fells Nángoröth than ? "

The elf peered at Nandon with wisdom beyond even his years. " We elves have been known to go where the wind blows us. This is not the case here. I have been waiting for a rider and his dragon. " Than suddenly his eyes narrowed into low slants. " But it seems I have only found a dragon and a new-born. " A low growl erupted not from Starlight but from Nepherion. " Is that an insult. " He asked, gripping his hilt again. The elf stood from his rock and showed his back to the boy, showing complete disregard for his power. " Take it as you will. " He replied. Nepherion unsheathed his blade once again, ready to leap onto the elf. Starlight quickly intervened. He's trying to bait you. Calm down and here him out. Nepherion crouched inwards and balled his fist. How I'am I to hear him out, when he's determined to insult us ! He rebuked back.

Than suddenly the sound of pristine metal grinding against a sheathe interrupted his thought. The elf slowly pulled out a white sparkling blade, causing Nepherion to mute again. The blade of the sword reminded him of the bright, smooth scales on Starlight's hide. The cross guard curved towards the blade with intertwining dual spikes and was made of a steel more beautiful than he had ever seen. The hilt, as far as he could tell was slightly longer and wrapped with a black cloth material. It's pommel held a smooth round diamond, gripped by three thick talons - the most chiseled and beautiful diamond he had ever seen. Nepherion squinted but couldn't figure out the glyph printed on the blade. The elf tossed the shimmering white scabbard to the ground. " This blade was made for an unknown rider and dragon. I have kept it since the beginning of the Riders. It rightfully belongs to you, or so I was told. But... I refuse to give it up to someone who isn't worthy. " Nepherion grimaced at the elf's declaration. It's obvious now that he is going to be a problem. He stated to Starlight. Well we knew this would come with trials. Are you ready for your first taste of combat ? Nepherion was mute for a moment. A pinch of adrenaline coursed his veins. I don't have much of a choice now do I. The elf looked at the group dauntingly. " You may even enlist the help of the Elf if you wish. " He said chuckling at something unforeseen. The elf smiled specifically at Nandon, smug and confidently. " Your mother would be - Nevermind. " He started.

[Nandon]

Nandon starred at the elf his own golden eyes flashing lightly as he studied the elf.. watching the speech between nepherion and him cautiously ready to jump in and stop and fight there was or if the elf attacked to help nepherion.. Nandons mind flashed lazily back to his dream and he shivered then hearing the sound of metal he turned and watched looking at the blade then he heard the elf speak of his mother and Nandon frowned... Had this elf known his mother? slowly he spoke "What about my mother..." Nandon said slowly trying to hide the impatience from his gaze

[Nepherion]

The elf brought the blade to his side. The skill and speed of which he moved it through the air, showed his experience in battle. He eyes moved to Nepherion but it was clear by the words he spoke that he directed them towards Nandon. " Like I said before. I'am here just as much for you as I'am for the rider and his dragon. Your answers will not come without work. I'll tell you if you can prove your worth. " Suddenly the man held out his sword-less hand. The hhand was covered with a black glove. Than suddenly he spoke aloud. " Malthinae " Starlight suddenly felt bound, his muscles were constricted and he could not move. A ear deafen roar bellow from his throat as he struggled against the magic. Incapable of escaping the dragon released a torrent of crimson flames towards the elf. With a smile the elf lifted his hand and whispered words inaudible to anyone. The flames rushed around the elf and charred the rocks behind him. Starlight could only hold his flames for two minutes and thus ended them. Nepherion showed vivid anger as he dashed towards the elf, his blade creating sparks as he approached. " Let him go !!! " With a great leap, Nepherion came from high bearing his blade onto the elf.

The elf raised the alabaster blade up and blocked Nepherion, staring at the boy's enraged expression. The elf's eyes softened for a moment as a sincere smile curved his lips. " You care deeply for him. This is a good start. But you can not prove your worth with the help of your dragon." He declared. Nepherion struggled against the elf's mighty strength than seeing his eyes move to the bound Starlight, begin to bare more strength, which seemed to not even affect him. " slytha hvitr skulblaka " He commanded. Nepherion's eyes widen in horror as Starlight's mental struggle ended. He cried out to the dragon but got no response. He turned his rage back on the elf. " What have you done !!! " He yelled. The elf pushed the boy back with little effort, sliding him several feet from him. " Your dragon sleeps now. He will not interfere until this battle is over. " The mist had begun to dissipate from the short bout that had occurred between the two. The teen's boots had made twin sparks from his effort to halt his push.

Nepherion kept his gaze on the elf, but his eye reluctantly glanced towards Starlight. He inched back little by little, until he was finally next to Starlight. He placed his hand in front of the dragon's nostril and felt his warm breathe on the back of his hand. A relieved sigh came from him. He broke through my wards so quickly. I'm outclassed, but I can't back down. No true warrior backs down from a challenge. He refrained from thinking about how strong the elf was, he assumed the acts of magic from earlier had done little to tire him out. He shook his head and looked to Nandon, the whole event had happened so quick. Nepherion walked forwards and stopped five feet from the elder elf. " Nandon-elda. I'll need your help. I won't be able to take him down alone. Plus it seems we both have something to gain from " proving our worth " He didn't care if the Elf heard him anymore. He wanted his motives to be clear, this battle was his first. And held to much on the line for him to lose. He brought his blade up to his chest and eyed the crack along the side. Already huh ? I should have known. I put to much force behind it. He thought to himself. The elf placed a hand behind his back. " Your training is still short Shur'tugal. I will judge you on your battle skill. Show me your potential and drive. " The elf dashed towards Nepherion and swung the blade towards him. The speed was astounding and Nepherion only barely raised his blade up to block. In that block he lost the last wards on his blade, and with quick snap his broadsword had shattered. He raised his hand to block the shards of metal than rolled to the left out the reach of the elf. " Nandon-elda. Now is a better time than ever. " He bellowed.

[Nandon]

Before the fight even began Nandon pushed out his mind pressing it onto the elfs trying to suffocate him and make fighting difficult vefore he ran forward and jumped into the air before bring his blade down then he flipped to the side still in the air before landing behind the elf and trying a leg sweep on him now wanting to know what he meant by his mother

[Nepherion]

Jul 5, 2012 1:02:40 GMT -5 Nandon said:

Before the fight even began Nandon pushed out his mind pressing it onto the elfs trying to suffocate him and make fighting difficult vefore he ran forward and jumped into the air before bring his blade down then he flipped to the side still in the air before landing behind the elf and trying a leg sweep on him now wanting to know what he meant by his mother

The elf felt the tampering with his mind and knew that the inexperienced elf had no hope of breaking in. But since he felt that he could, he decided to counter it with a crushing jab to his mind. He held the dragon up than flawless dodged the elf's attack. He parried the knifed staff with the rider's blade, his eyes following the young elf the entire time. When he landed behind him, The elf took a couple of feet back, dodging the elf sweep kick. Placing himself equal length from the two. Afterwards he continued on with his plan, by putting Starlight to sleep and baiting Nepherion too attack. He was now a little ahead of the game.

Nepherion rolled from the elf's attack and stood to his feet. " Nandon-elda. Now is better time than ever. " He yelled. The elf let out a smug smirk. " Your elf is a hundred years to young to try and break me. " He said. Nepherion looked around, and thought back to when Nandon had attack the elf. For a moment, the elf stumbled. It was a slight stumble, but a stumble none the less. Something that elves hardly ever did. Nepherion gripped the severed sword by the hilt. As he dashed towards the elf he yelled towards Nandon. " Now, Attack his mind !! " Nepherion came towards the elf, slashing and stabbing at him mercilessly. The first couple of slashes was dodged easily by the elf. " Your bladework is sluggish at best. You hold no method of fighting. You swing wildly like a child throwing a tantrum. This blade will stay with me unless you show me otherwise. " He declared with a calm not meant for battle.

[Nandon]

Nandon cringed as he felt the jab then sighed focusing all his mind training into one large jab pushing up against the elfs mind with the entire force of his being... if this failed nandon would have been left almost helpless to the elf...

[Nepherion]

Nepherion furiously attack the elf with all he had. His sword shattered little by little until only three inches of it remained. When the elf finally grew tired of enduring the boy's barrage. He twisted the broken blade out of the rider's hands, tossing it to the floor nearby. He rose the boy's chin up with the face of the gleaming blade. " You have little to no power, Rider. " He looked down to the ground with regret pasted on his face. A sigh came from his mouth. " So many centuries wasted. But Wydra has never given a false telling before. So why, why do you disappoint ? " Than suddenly the elf trembled as a powerful, force shook his mental state. But his barrier remained steel strong. He gazed at Nandon with lowered lids, his eyes filled with solemn anger. " Thrysta vindr " His gloved hand thrust towards the elf, shooting a powerful shot of air towards the elf's chest. Whether it hit him or not was up to him, though it wouldn't had killed him regardless.

At that moment, when the elf's mind was weakened from Nandon's attack, Nepherion looked towards his broken sword. " Gath sem sundavar un lam iet " He shouted. His broken blade rose and twisted to his hand. With a quick snap the boy gripped it's hilt and swung it to his side. Than quickly dashed forwards, slashing the distracted elf's shoulder. Nepherion stood to his feet, the white cloak that was held by a broach flowed with the chilled wind. Nepherion breathing continued on with heavy, deep, breathes. His knees wobbled and like Nandon he had used up most of his energy. He dropped to one knee, and held himself up with a hand to the gray earth under him.

The sound of metal dropping to the earth resounded ontop of the cliff. The elf held his shoulder as streams of blood trailed down his arm. His sword-wielding arm was now useless. Nepherion looked on with caution, knowing if he wanted to finish them off he could using magic. With frustrated sigh, he resigned to his fate. He hadn't the strength or will to fight back anymore. The elf turned a blank gaze on the rider before turning to face him. He dropped his hand from the deep cut on his shoulder before picking up the blade. Nepherion closed his eyes in utter despair. " Damn. " All hope seemed lost. Starlight was asleep , probably having revolting nightmares. He had exhausted most of his energy and now barely had the strength to pick up his broken blade. The elf drew nearer, he hadn't spoken not even one word before flipping the blade downwards and handing the hilt towards Nepherion.

Nepherion opened his eyes after the silence had passed without him feeling any pain. Looking up he noticed the satisfied smile on the elf's face. With a shocked expression he reached out for the Rider's sword. " But why ? I failed. " He asked. The elf let his blood drip on the floor. He offered the rider a hand up and once he had clasped it, effortlessly lifted him to his feet. " That is not your decision. " He stated before walking over to the elf and offering his hand to him as well. Nepherion !!! The thunderous cry echoed throughout his head and he instinctively knew who it was. Starlight ! Your awake. Starlight rampage up to his side and growled furiously towards the elf. Nepherion picked himself up with what little strength he had. It's over. I passed. He said holding the blade up to Starlight. After repeating the events to Starlight, the dragon calmed down enough to not rip or tear away at the elf. Nepherion looked towards the elf, holding the hilt of the blade loosely from exhaustion. " I don't understand. Who are you ? And why didn't you kill us ? "

The elf walked towards the rock he squatted on early and seeing that it was charred black from the dragon's flames, decided to stand instead. " Many have spoken of me in legends and others have said my name means - world changer. But I go by one name and one that should be noted. You may call me Eragon. And as to why I didn't kill you. It's because I didn't attack to kill you, I attack to test you. Also, I haven't strength or will to kill anymore. " Nepherion looked perplexed as ever, he couldn't imagine anyone else being named Eragon, what a coincidence. Plus the elf's reason for not killing him was complex as ever. " What do you mean ? " Nepherion asked.

[Nandon]

Weak from the mental attack he smirked seeing the elf shudder before he was blasted backwards with a grunt and slammed into one of the flame licked pillars and he groaned as stars danced in his eyes and he tuned out for a couple moments.... when he looked up he heard the elf say he was eragon and he gasped before looking back "And what about my mother?"...
Eragon looked over at nandon his yellow eyes seeming to pass through him "Your mother... Would be proud of you." Eragon said slowly and continued "And your sister may have had a change of heart young alfykin..." Eragon said before looking over at nepherion and starlight "When you spend as many years as I have... connected to all those around you...You cannot kill anymore in good consiousness..." Eragon said slowly
Nandon looked at nepherion "You idiot! He is the ORIGINAL eragon... The first ever dragon rider!" He said quickly wondering at what he meant before groaning in pain again from the move
Eragon looked over at nandon and nodded confirmation before walking over to Nandon "You have much potential...You mental attack was well done..." eragon said then mumurred "Slytha" And nandon went limp

[Nepherion]

Nepherion urged his body forward. His hands were red from the great impacts that had transpired against Eragon. He could barely wield his new prize with pride. Before he could even move a couple of feet, Nepherion stopped to take a couple of breathes. I haven't been this tired since the first time I've trained with Eragon-elda. Feeling the comfort of the bond him and Starlight shared, it was instinctive to recede into it. Starlight walked up beside the rider before lowering next to him. You have fought against someone that is several leagues ahead of you... Nepherion, I'am proud. Nepherion smiled what little he could before climbing onto Starlight's saddle.

He had many questions for Eragon and refrained with every inch of his being from drifting off to sleep. Nepherion looked towards Nandon when he stated the elf's name. At first Nepherion shrugged it off. He had known only one Eragon in his lifetime, so why should another be of any meaning to him. His eyes looked over at the charcoal chaos behind the elf. Starlight's flames had left a darken scab on most of the gray rock and had ashed the little vegetation that lied on them. It was than that the word that Nandon spoke finally reached his ears. He instantly turned towards Nandno and seen him fall limp to the ground. His teeth clenched a little as a knot formed in his jaw. He put the elf to sleep ? Only a powerful magician could do that to Nandon. Commented. Starlight

Nepherion agreed, before pushing Starlight to walk towards the elf. The scales on Starlight, was patted as he approached elf, hoping to calm him. The resentment for the spells used on him, still angered him a great deal. Nepherion looked at Eragon with a resolve filled gaze. " You said during our bout. That you received a fortune from Wydria or Wydrara.. Or something like that. Does this mean that you've been waiting here this entire time for me ? And if so, than why me ? " He asked, his eyes staying on the blonde elf. Their were plenty of other riders out there that were worthy. So why reveal himself to him or all people. It made him think, maybe Starlight wasn't just blowing hot air.

[Nepherion]

Eragon's eyes were closed, he appeared to be thinking hard on a elusive thought. Nepherion's arms begin to shake as he held his body up from laying on Starlight's white scales. Starlight's constant probing or nudging on his mind kept him from plopping against the rough scales. The use of magic had drained him extensively, and now he was devoid of most energy. He felt hungry and eerily tired. This rarely happens to me. I hope I don't have to do this against all of my tougher opponents. He thought to himself. After a moment, Eragon lifted his forever reserved gaze on Nepherion. He rubbed his chin with the fingers of his right hand, thinking of the words to say. Eragon dropped his hand than walked to the exhausted Nepherion. Looking up towards Starlight he bow slightly out of respect. Will you grant me permission near your Rider. I truly never meant you two any harm. Though his words hadn't sounded apologetic or sincere, the dragon just knew the elder meant them, it was like sixth sense to him. Starlight nodded towards the Elf, through the short mental interaction he warned him not to be foolish.

Nepherion looked on towards the Elf as he approached him, stopping only when he was a foots length away. The elf gazed at him than said. " Before I tell you anything, you must vow in the ancient language to never uncover or give this information to the King or any of his subjects. " Nepherion ground his teeth against one another. Eragon-elda had warned him about making vows in the ancient language, he just never thought it would happen so early in his Rider career. He looked towards the chestnut haired elf and nodded in assurance. Commanding the ancient language to bind his vow to his being he once again felt a strain on his mind. Afterwards, the elf lifted his gloved hand and pulled it off. The black leather was tossed to the ground carelessly. Eragon turned his palm to Nepherion, showing his proof in being a Rider. " I was the Rider's first and it's first leader. I have long since been proclaimed dead. But that has been treachery on my part. " His peerless yellow eyes looked to the ground for moment. " I will tell only a branch of my story and than I will part to you my greatest treasure. " He said

Eragon begun his story with him and his dragon securing the peace within the elves and dragons. Eventually getting them to sign a treaty and beginning the Riders. He expressed the battles that him and Bid'Daum endured through. The hardships that came with organizing a establishment like the Riders in detail. Nepherion looked towards Eragon with ear gripping bliss. Though the elf showed little emotion, his way with words and descriptive vocabulary captivated his and Starlight's attention. It was than that he got into the real reason he told the story. Many decades into his position, Eragon was given a fortune. One that declared him to make a Rider's blade that was purposely not for him. Their was nothing right about it's design. That blade was meant for aggressive, power strikes and stabs. He knew it had to do with the future but didn't know how far into the future. His story ended with the death of his dragon against a formidable wild dragon that threaten to destroy what all the Rider's stood for.

Nepherion's face sunk into a sadden grimace. Looking onto the oblivious Starlight, he could only imagine the hurt and pain that comes with losing one's dragon. He laid his head against the dragon's hide, dodging his spikes and tighting his grip around his muscular neck. I don't ever wanna lose you, Starlight. The dragon comforted the boy. He rubbed his conscious against his Rider's assuring him that he would never die, unless of course it involved saving him. Nepherion objected to that as well. I'd prefer you letting me die. I don't know what I would do without you guiding me. Said Nepherion. He loosened his embrace and looked towards the staring Eragon. " Sorry for interrupting. " Eragon shook his head. " It's okay, I know better than anyone what it is like to get swept away with your dragon. " A silence passed by and for the first time Nepherion was capable of enjoying the quite scenery of Du Fells. The sky overhead looked gray. The sun could barely shine through the thick dark clouds under him. The mist below maintain a precipitating moisture on the stone ground and patches of grass around them. It spread the smell of nature through the air.

Nepherion sat up in Starlight's saddle. Feeling his strength returning he dug into his sac and pulled out a stale piece of bread. He ate the toughen flour without restraint, shoving whole lofts into his mouth. When he felt his strength return the boy stretched his arms out into the air with a burst of energy. " Ahhh yea. That's much better. " He yelled. His bruises hindered his arms and sides, but wasn't enough to hold him back. He climbed off of Starlight's back and smiled at Eragon. " Y'know, you look alot like my master , Eragon-elda. Though you two act totally different. " Eragon chuckled with closed lips. " Eragon Bromson, I've heard about him within the connection. He is quite the prodigy. " He stated. Nepherion looked towards him with a contagious smile that brought out the youth in him. " Hey, Maybe you could come back to the Varden with me. We could use a powerful magician like you with us. " Eragon shook his head slowly. " There is no place for me in this time. I'am merely a phantom of centuries past. In fact, I have something that I must pass on to you now. " Nepherion looked at Eragon quizzical as he dove into a small pouch on the side of his waist.

Starlight turned towards the pair, feeling a powerful conscious residing within Eragon, his crimson eyes gazed upon a large magical presence around him. It outlined and burst off around him like a great mind attempting to swallow anything that dared to stray to close. Starlight stepped between the two and push Nepherion back with the extension of his left wing. Something doesn't seem right. I- I can see a powerful being hovering around you Eragon. What are you hiding? He growled. Nepherion tried to look over the large wing but had difficulty, so he squirmed under it and appeared below the dragon's neck. " What are you talking about Starlight ? I can't see anything. " Than suddenly a earth rumbling voice shattered the heavens above and the ground below. It was raspy and very rough around the edges. It started off with a low chuckle that soon enveloped the pair's hearing. " A rare occurrence indeed, this hatch-ling has just used magic. " It declared. Nepherion felt several tendrils peel away at his inner most barriers, until finally he could feel the vast consciousness of the being. Memories ontop of memories filled his every thought, this being was no doubt that of a dragon's. The dragon desecrated the barrier of the three and forced himself into the minds of the others. He touched only far enough for them to hear him than ceased his invasion. " I'am Bid'Daum and I offer you my knowledge and power, Starlight, Nepherion." The two were silent and in awe. In Eragon's hand was a multicolored diamond that seem to hold the essence of the beast. It glowed brightly in the center with every word spoken.

[Nandon]

Nandon sighed as he slowly fell asleep but then he frowned as he slowly stood up... he was extremely worried now as he looked down and saw his body there "What the hell.." Nandon said but no words came out...Nandon looked over and saw nepherion and the elf talking and he frowned not hearing a word of it nandon then looked around and saw the woman from his dream leaning against a pillar on the far wall "Welcome back halfling.... You shouldnt have tried to force the dream last time..." She said walking forward... it was just her and him now... her teal sword staff sat on her back the wild dragon he had seen before was nowhere to be seen "Who are you..." nandon asked slowly walking forward "I...Am one of the first "Riders" I was not a true rider but i bonded with a wild dragon... who you saw on the battle field with me previously." She said pushing herself off the pillar "When the fall of the riders came... we became much like eragon-elda over there... Phantoms meant to help the new generation along through what trouble may present themselves..." slowly she pointed a finger at nandons sword staff and it slowly changed color from silver to teal... nandon looked back at her and noticed her sword staff was gone "Nandon...Someday you shall find use for that sword.... and when that day comes... you shall bring peace to this land..." She said then she vanished and nandon looked over and saw her in the physical world looking at eragon... he heard nothing of what she said but in reality she said "Ebrithril... Nandon is prepared...I shall wake him up momentarily... the sword has been given..." She said then walked towards nandons body placing a single hand on it and kneeling down whispering in his ear several words of power and Nandons eyes opened imediatly and he stood up looking between the two elves "You may call me Kyu by the way..." She said looking at Nandon.

[Nepherion]

Eragon smiled warmly at the Dragon and Rider pair, knowing that this would help them in their future endeavors. " You both must defend this Eldunari with your lives. Bid'Daum has lived for nearly as long as I have and I refuse to allow my earnest hard work to go for not. " He said. Nepherion looked at the gem with wondering eyes. The large gem had to be held in both of Eragon's hands due to it's size. It was about the size of a small melon and probably hard enough to break stone. " If you want it. You must vow in the ancient language to guard it close to your heart. Only you and your dragon comes before it. " Nepherion looked at Eragon than swallowed, their were many things in life that he held more precious than himself. Having that stone would only complicate things more, but he knew he couldn't let it slip pass him. It could help him in the fight against the Empire. He looked at Eragon with a scowl.

" I can't do that Eragon. Their are many things that I hold dear to me. " He bowed to the elf and the Eldunari. " I can't vow to place it's life over my sister's or my family. But I swear to never let it leave my sight, it'll always be with me. " Eragon looked at the pair with a steel resolve, than slowly it faded into a warm smile. " That is good enough for me. Now you must vow that in the ancient language. " Nepherion looked up and smiled at Eragon before rewording his promise into the ancient language. Afterwards Eragon and Bid'Daum had their farewells, than Eragon handed the Eldunari to Nepherion.

As his hands cuffed the Eldunari he begin realize the titanic vastness that was the dragon's mind and power. It swirled inside the gem like typhoon inside of a glass bottle. Ready and capable of shattering it's confines at any moment. Nepherion and Starlight's eyes widen from the access to the power. He looked down at the gem and Starlight brought his head over it. How can you possibly stand to have so much power ? Is it not overwhelming for you ? He asked. Bid'Daum extended his mind to the Dragon and Rider. " Over time it all seems distant. Only moments like these when in the hands of someone who could use. Do I feel the full span of my strength. " Nepherion looked towards Starlight . Really ? Isn't that amazing Starlight ? The dragon waved it's tail. Indeed it is. I've never felt such strength before.

Bid'Daum chuckled at the praise raining on him. Nepherion and Starlight could feel the once-upon-a-dragon's humble blush. Starlight exchange blissful pleasantries with the wise dragon before they all agreed that Bid'Daum shouldn't be out to long. Their was a chance that a magician or Galbatorix himself would feel the dragon's presence and that was something they didn't want. Nepherion climbed into Starlight's saddle, tore a piece of cloth from his sleeping blanket and pulled a thread from it as well. Making a pouch that should contain the Eldunari until otherwise needed.

Eragon looked towards Kyu with interest as she spoke to him. He responded with a simple nod.Than looked off to Nandon just as he awoke. Eragon longed to have Bid'Daum back by his side, but now was the time for the new generation. They would need strong leaders and for some reason, Nepherion and the others was chosen by fate to just that. He walked over to Elf who had just awoken and with a hand, helped him up. He cast a complex spell in the ancient language that not only deterred ease droppers, but also implanted a fake conversation that would follow suit with his mouth. He looked towards Nandon with analytic eyes. " You are still young elf. But have been consider wise because of the world's current situation. I can tell you have seen many battles, battles that elves like you should never had to see. Kyu, for reasons beyond my knowledge has chosen you as her inheritor, just as I have chosen Nepherion. " A three second silence passed by before he spoke again. " Nandon, you will be needed to strike blows to Galbatorix's army that no other can. I tell you this because.. more than anyone I believe you is closest to Nepherion. But you must vow first to keep it's secrecy unless left with no other choice. "

[Nandon]

Nandon nodded his head as the elf spoke the strange words in the ancient language he spoke fell well over nandons head... He looked over at kyu with his eyes only... she was leaned against the pillar... the same pillar he had seen her leaned against in his dream or whatever it was. he then returned his attention to eragon "I understand the need for secrecy." Nandon said then swore himself to not reveal this conversation

[Nepherion]

Eragon turned his head towards Kyu, noticing Nandon's distraction. He folded his arms over his chest. " Their are forces guiding this land that you could never fathom. I will not uncover their veil - " He stopped, than looked towards Kyu again. " No you do it, Kyu. I have not the strength too... I- I.. can feel my strength leaving from me. " His face turned pale as he sauntered towards the Dragon and Rider. Nepherion looked at Eragon as he waned as if the slightest breeze could push him over. Eragon stumbled and almost fell, but Nepherion was fast enough to catch him. The man leaned over Nepherion's back. " You okay, Eragon ? " He asked, worried. Eragon smiled as he coughed up a bit of blood. " I have leaved long, and I'm afraid without Bid'Daum, I'am losing my strength. " Nepherion's eyes widen in shock at the revelation and Starlight stood their with little emotion.