a rider of old.

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum, in the warmth of Rakaio's hands could sense his caution against diving into his shrouded mystery. But like Entas had said, knowledge wasn't to be feared it was to be used to grow ever stronger. "She speaks the truth Rakaio. You must not shy away from this darkness. For if you do it may very well swallow you. "

Bid'Daum once again enjoyed the feeling of Entas flying through the bond. He remembered fondly how much joy being in the sky could bring and now more than ever he deeply regretted losing his body. Still, he was grateful to Entas, even if she hadn't known the gift that she was bestowing to him at the time.

Rakaio's thoughts brought him from his self enjoyment and focused him back on the task at hand. Bid'Daum growled thoughtfully again. " Normally one would just search their feelings, but your case seems to be tied in with your very heritage and magic, I would suggest first seeing if it is intertwined in the realm of the ancient language. " he told him, thinking of the words that would used for such a spell. A sigh was released again, though this one seemed more agitated. The spell that will be used for this will not be easy and simple. The one I've thought of is very long and complicated. I pray that your time of Riders has come up with a new method of weaving words together. " he said this knowing that he was quite out of times. Since his and Eragon's supposed death; the two had been hiding out, awaiting the day to fulfill Eragon's lone quest. They barely no knowledge of the magics changing ways, if they had any at all.



Nepherion's left hand pounded lightly against Caspian's and again he chuckled. He couldn't help but be slightly giddy. If he remembered right, he and Caspian had both voted against not joining the Varden and so far he had kept his neutrality, at least in title he had. He wonder if Caspian had done the same. " Yea, long story, " he said, bring his arms back to his side and dropping the pebbles he had in his hands. " I was out scouting actually, when I ran into- " Nepheiron's words had been frozen, he was torn on whether to tell him of Rakaio's and Entas' existence or not. " Well let's just say I ran into some "old " friends. " He kicked the gravel underneath his feet, tossing it to the side of them. " But forget about me. How's you and runt ?" he said teasingly.

Starlight let a current of heated air hit Sephora as his head laid only inches from her snout. " I'll tell you but you have to promise to keep it secret. " he told her, his crimson eye, gazing at her golden scales. Starlight was tempted to stand, but he was afraid that moving could cause accidental injury to the small one. So he staid still as he explained the situation as best he could without violating his vows. Unfortunately he could find none, so he quickly made up a fib. " The secret is to eat sheep only. " he told her, with a draconian smile curving his jowls. Starlight brought his long tail behind Sephora, creating a small barricade of sorts. " Why is it that you have not grown ? " he asked.

[Emiryal ♕]

The darkness swallowing him was what Rakaio feared. His fear had been why he hadn't tried to face it before. He thought that ignoring it would prevent it from swallowing him. Entas and Bid'Daum's words made him realize doing just that would have the opposite affect.

Entas hummed slightly when she realized Bid'Daum was enjoying feeling her flight. She decided after they finished talking she'd offer the old dragon to fly with her. She'd merge her mind with his enough that he could fly again through her. "Our time? Spells are still best done with words of power. Complicated it may be but better that then leave a loophole for errors. Rakaio guides his spells with mere thought and intention in addition to the words. He is capable of the task," Entas said.

"Entas, your praise is kind but you have more faith in me than I do myself for this," Rakaio said. "But I'll try to do my best with the spell." The rider often would cast his spells with one or no words guiding the rest with thought alone. A task like that was complicated but it came easy to him. He only hoped this spell would not be as out of reach for him as it probably was for most. He took a moment making sure he got the phrasing right. Then he closed his eyes and cast the spell, speaking each word perfectly never missing a word and each word was filled with power. He hesitated only once near the end of the spell.

Even as he had spoken a white glow emanated around Rakaio, not pure white more like a white-grey color though. The glow then flashed brilliantly white and Rakaio collapsed in the saddle. For one thing the spell had drained him of more energy than he had expected it would but that was not why he had collapsed. The spell took his consciousness so that he could explore his very being his magic, his blood and the darkness within.

Entas was concerned at first but it wasn't like she could do anything. She transferred some of her energy to Rakaio until she shared half of the burden the spell had cost. "Bid'Daum, it seems my Rider is on his own. While we wait would you like to take to the sky with me? Merge with my mind, take my wings and make them yours for a little while."

----
Rakaio was floating in darkness but it was not the darkness within him just an absence of light. Then images flashed past him, some of his past and others images of grey-folk. Then the memories stopped. A single flame burned in front of him, Rakaio cowered away from it. The flame grew and burst into an image of his home town, Tiadum. The town was under attack and he stood at the center his mother was dying in his arms telling him she wished he had never been born. As she drew her last breath Rakaio turned and prepared to repel the Urgals in revenge but his spell went awry and destroyed the town in a glorious blast of flames.

Flames. Mother. Wish he'd never been born.

Before he had time to ponder he was whisked off into another memory. He was with Entas sparing with a fellow rider on a green dragon. He cast a spell creating a shaft of glass that plunged for the other Rider. The other Rider couldn't stop the shaft of glass and was instantly killed along with his dragon.

Dead. More Magic. His best friend.

Then yet again another memory, he was training an apprentice in defending his mind and using magic to enhance his defenses. Rakaio attacked his mind but the apprentice's defense didn't hold and he sliced through his mind hurting him and disrupting the apprentice's magic with an unintended spell. The apprentice would never be able to use magic after that.

His fault. His last apprentice the council allowed him to train.

Many more such memories flashed by all having to do with his magic harming or going wrong. And then a memory he'd nearly forgotten. A beautiful elf was standing next to him watching him lovingly. She kissed him and wished him luck then got onto her red dragon, Farnoir. Her name was Mira and she meant everything to Rakaio. He watched her fly away. She would never return as she fell in battle that day. Not wanting to strike out in revenge like Galbatorix and risk becoming like him and not wanting to risk loosing Entas, the only one he had left that he cared about, he fled in fear when he was needed most.

Mira. Grief. Death.

Then all was black again and a voice could be heard. It was his grandmother, she had been a grey folk descendent as well. She wasn't speaking to him, but it was another memory, one when he had been too little to properly remember it. "My dear Rakaio," she said. "I trust one day you will search your feelings and I hope you find this memory. I probably won't be around much as you grow up but at least I can give you some words of wisdom later in your life. We each have our own destiny, it's not something we can escape. You are a grey-folk decedent but you are also human. Humans make mistakes, I'm sure you'll make a few, but they also continue to try. Grey-folk are powerful beings, magic is part of who we are. Just because you are human does not mean that magic is any less, even partial grey-folk are as powerful as pure grey-folk. You must be careful of this, if you do not face who you are and embrace it, it will destroy you. I can't tell you how to do this, it's something you have to discover on your own, much like an elf or Rider would discover their true name. Never forget who you are. Make me proud."

Then silence took hold and no more memories came. All those accidents had been mistakes he hadn't meant to do it. Was this power the darkness inside him or was the darkness a result of him not finding and embracing who he was? If anything he was left more confused than before. But then...of course! The darkness was not his power, but was fears and guilt amplified by his power into something that could destroy him. The darkness was his fault and caused by him. If he faced himself and embraced who he was tapping into his grey folk power would that purge him of the darkness? How then was he to do that?

Caspian failed to realize the depth of the word old friend. He was going to ask who the old friend was until Nepherion asked a question to him. He chuckled when he referred to Sephora as runt. "Don't let her hear you say that. She get's touchy when anyone calls her a runt, though that is what she is," he said. "We have been good. I still haven't been able to tap into my magic though. At least Sephora is finally big enough to carry me when she flies.

Sephora hung on Starlight's every world. Maybe she could get bigger if she did the same thing as Starlight. "Sheep make my mouth dry with all that wool. I don't like eating them," she complained. "Maybe it's worth a try though." She turned her head to glance at Starlight as he brought his tail behind her. She suddenly realized just how small she was in comparison to Starlight, she didn't like it either. "I don't know why I haven't grown. I've asked Glaedr and well most of the Varden riders but they don't have any answers. I do grow though just not very much."

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum sat in the palms of his hands and felt slight anticipation when Rakaio had begun to weave words of the ancient language together. For the most part he hoped that Rakaio would find his darkness and conquer it, for he would make a excellent sword in the arsenal of the new riders. Another part of him, wished for Rakio to find this darkness so that he could potentially advise him on the problem. Bid'Daum knew that a problem known, was the first step to a problem solved. Once the last word of power slid off his tongue, Rakaio begin to glow. Than like the gray from an approaching storm that was soon followed by the flash of its lightening, it dimmed and he collapsed.

Bid'Daum felt the subtle movements, his gem of a body rocked in the hands of the fainted elf. A sigh was exerted from inside of his mind. " I wish you the best of luck Rakaio. Do not falter down the steps of revelation. " he said wearily. Afterwards he found Entas' mind mostly prominent between the two. Her magical drain had been great, such was a spell that allowed you to conquer darkness from within.

A shock of joy touched Bid'Daum and for a moment he envisioned himself perking up from a laid position. " Are you sure ? Invading one's mind is a deeply intimate ritual. Especially with one as strong as I. I may overwhelm you. " he warned with seriousness in his voice. He was sure that once they mind had melded that she would for split second or more be exposed to the countless centuries of power stored within him. It was enough to drive even the King crazy if ever caught in a direct battle of minds. Though he was quite sure that Entas would not retort her offer so he begun slowly to meld himself with her. He coursed through the veins of her magic, his tendrils of thought intertwining with the will of her massive body. Slowly he gain control of her wings and body, feeling what she felt, and seeing what she saw. The feeling was beyond blissful, he had forgotten just how unbelievably amazing have a body was. " Hold tight dear dragon. I will show you maneuvers of the likes you've never seen. "

Bid'Daum, now in control of Entas' body, picked up on the thermal heat of a current, and jetted high into the sky. Almost forgetting that poor Rakaio was unconscious. He curved her wings out, slowing to a halt in the sky and allowing the heat from the great-fire-in the-sky to warm his body. " It seems I've forgotten the companion of your heart. " he reminded himself as he stopped the surge of energy flowing through his now brightly glowing Eldunari. The wind inched around every scale of her body and it felt as if it was his own. It brought joy that couldn't possibly be explained by words to his heart. " I wish Eragon could be here to fly with me. Oh how much warmth that would bring to my ancient soul. " his words were heartfelt, causing him to wonder just how long Entas would allow him to borrow her body.



" Oh yea. " Nepherion said, turning and walking towards Starlight and Sephora. He stopped at the hilt of Brojska; stuck into the ground. Its iridescent blade shimmered with a hue of blue, -even without the aid of light or flames - it seemed to respond to his touch. He gripped the blade and with a little jerk of its handle pulled it from the earth. " Magic is simple once you break its initial barrier, its there in all of us or atleast, that's what Eragon-elda says. " he placed the blade in ivory scabbard hanging from his side and raised his palm into the air. BRISNGR !! he shouted furiously, releasing a immaculate ball of wraith-like fire into the air. The crackling sound of the flame traveled through the wind surrounded the clearing. Then his finger strained and the ball of fire exploded several meters above them, raining down small embers. That demonstration may have seemed pointless, but Nepherion wanted to see if Caspian was actually interested in magic, or if he just didn't see the need for it. Nepherion's oceanic eyes gazed at the sky above, looking at the white embers falling to the ground. " Do you not see a use for this ? Being a dragonrider; you have know this to survive. " he told Caspian, his tone sounding quite blunt.

Starlight chuckled flames from his nostrils. " No worries. I'm sure you'll hit a growth spurt soon. " he joked. Starlight raised his head from Sephora, as Nepherion's mind drew closer. He looked at him intently as he grabbed Brojska and sheathed the brilliant blade in the matching scabbard. " What are you about to do ? " he asked through the bond, feeling Nepherion's growing anxiousness. " You'll see ? " was his reply. Moments later his hand raised into the air and a shattering sound was expelled as a blaze burst from his palm and cut the air with its power. The spell's speed brought Starlight's head up as it towered over him and its beauty exploded; showering him in its aftermath. The white embers trickled on his scales, depleted of its energy it was harmless.

[Emiryal ♕]

Entas was a bit nervous that Bid'Daum would overwhelm her but after sensing his pleasure in her flight she had decided it might be worth it to allow him one last flight. She shuddered slighly as she was exposed to his thoughts and powers. She had never realized just how vast his mind was and it was hard not to loose herself, but keeping herself focus on her rider helped. Unlike Rakaio she was no tempted by the massive power Bid'Daum possessed.

It was a strange sensation as Bid'Daum took control of her body. She was more of a passenger now something she had never felt like before. "That you have, but Rakaio is alright, his saddle straps will hold," she said. "You and Eragon are legends but even so to be apart still pains even you. I imagine I would feel the same if I lost my rider."

---
Rakaio drifted in darkness realizing that his fear and grief was only a tiny bit of this darkness. Entas had to be a part of this as well, he knew she had to be. But more than that the darkness was part of his true name. If he got rid of the darkness his true name would change and changing that was difficult enough without the darkness. Then out of nowhere he was confronted with the darkness. He couldn't tell what is was and he couldn't fight what he didn't know. It consumed him, draining his energy rapidly and threatening to devourer him. Some how he knew if he succumbed to it he would never wake again.
----

Entas' thoughts suddenly turned to her rider as she felt a massive drain of energy from him. "Ebrithil! My rider!" her voice was somewhat panicked. She didn't explain to Bid'Daum of the energy drain for she knew he was so merged with her mind he would understand before she could explain.

Caspian raised his arms to ward off the embers raining down until he realized they had cooled off enough not to do any harm. The display certainly had been impressive though. He hadn't ever gotten the chance to see much magic and it still enthralled him. But why hadn't he been able to do that? He'd tried many times.

The rider nodded his head when Nepherion spoke. "Certainly, magic can turn the tide in battle. And fighting another rider without knowing magic well that's suicide. I've tried to learn it, Sephora has tried to help me, but I just can't do it," he said.


Sephora hoped Starlight's joke had some truth to it. Maybe she would hit a growth spurt eventually. She glanced up at the dazzling fire display and tried to catch embers like they were snowflakes. The embers quickly vanished leaving none for her to catch. Her attention came back to Starlight and she playfully circled him and tried to nip at him only to jump back to stay out of range.

[Nepherion]

" His straps are on ? ". A spark of mischief filled his thoughts as images of intense, ancient aerial maneuvers played through his mind. Bid'Daum readied his mind and Entas' body for immense speed needed for these level of flight, and as he flapped her wings ready to prove the might of the ancient ways a iron grip pulling at his consciousness pointed him at Rakaio's inner struggle.

Their was no need for explanation as Entas had thought, he had known all that was going on and feared that Rakaio and Entas could not handle it alone. " I know. " he said in a rushed, steeled voice. Bid'Daum begin to pull energy from his reserves, ciphering them into Entas and Rakaio. His reservoirs, as immense and deep as they were; held up against the torrential drain. " This " Darkness " is as I feared. It is embedded in his very heritage as a Grey Folk. Their magic is unpredictable and powerful to boot. He will need assistance. " he urged through a strained voice.



Nepherion's hand staid in the air a moment longer, than silently fell to his side. The white embers danced to the ground and the tingling feeling in the air left as well. A small sigh of exertion left his mouth. " That took more out of me than I thought. " he conveyed to Starlight.

Starlight lowered his gaze on Nepherion's wide shouldered back, the white cloth that covered the left side hung slightly below his bottom and his white hair had become quite unruly. He was beginning to look more and more like a powerful Rider. And still, ontop of that he wanted to do the transformation as well. He couldn't help but feel Nepherion was being selfish and greedy. " What did you expect. Your body is exhausted from your battle with Rakaio. Than you go and use magic just for fun. You're forgetting the principles of being a noble warrior." The dragon Starlight looked away from his Rider and back towards Sephora, who was running around him and nipping at him. Starlight was greatly enjoying the time spent with her, but found himself thinking of her as younger than him.

Nepherion face scrunched up as if he had just received a scolding. " Whats wrong with him. " he complained to himself, thinking of the disdainful way Starlight had just spoken to him. He rubbed off Starlight's attitude and returned to Caspian. " How about this... " he said, walking up beside him. " What if instead of trying to use it, you try and feel for it. " he suggested.

[Emiryal ♕]

Had it not been for the danger to her rider, Entas would've been amazed by simply Bid'Daum's thoughts on the maneuvers he planned to do. But as it was she was more concerned for her rider. Entas felt relieved as Bid'Daum gave energy to Rakaio. She was surprised to find he was giving her some as well, she hadn't realized how drained she was until he supplied her with energy. "Thank you ebrithil," she said. "Unpredictable like how our power is?" she asked. Dragons couldn't really control magic the way a rider or spellcaster could. Was that similar to Rakaio's power? "Is there any way I can help my rider? and are you alright? The drain on his energy is great and constant. Can we wake him?"

----
Rakaio found himself engulfed in the darkness and helpless. Then a burst of light broke the darkness and he felt energy return to him. He knew he was not the cause of it but maybe Entas or Bid'Daum were helping him some how. He took advantage of the relief and cast wards of pure light around him. It was a spell he had never tried before, but it seemed to be working. Then the light around him seemed to become contaminated and shattered. The strange thing was it had gotten contaminated from the inside as though he had been the cause.

In desperation he cast the spell Bid'Daum had told him to defeat his darkness and found himself pulled even deeper into himself. The darkness was still there but clearer. Rakaio was kneeling though as the spell had cost him. It seemed any spells he cast drained him more than normal while in this state.

The darkness once again attempted to consume him. Again Rakaio cast the spell and went even deeper. With the third casting of the spell he had dived so deep no outside force could wake him or help him now. He was cut off from reality.

Rakaio shivered as he stood in a snowy wasteland. Dragon's were dying all around him as they battled forsworn. He tried to call out to them but the wind carried away his words. Then a large black dragon landed near him. At first he thought it was galbatorix and cast another spell, he cried in agony as he approached the limit of his magical reserves. He collapsed to the ground.

The rider and dragon were still there with him but they were no longer on a snowy field they were in his home town or more the ruins of it. The rider's face was hidden by a helmet, his dragon was grand and her scales were brown. He cringed as something landed next to him with a metalic thud. He looked up seeing a sword next to him. "Defend yourself," the rider said. Rakaio was exhausted and was in no condition to fight, but it wasn't like he had a choice. He picked up the sword and staggered to his feet. The rider he knew was the darkness he had faced before only this time he could clearly see it. Who was the rider though?
----

Entas was anxious she tried to give Rakaio more energy as she felt him drop to a critical level. But her efforts were blocked as though there were a wall blocking the transfer of magic. "Ebrithil, what's happening?"

[/i]
[/blockquote]
[/blockquote]

Sephora slowly stopped playing. She certainly felt younger than Starlight, she was playing like a newborn hatching. Even her emotions felt child-like and giddy.

Caspian chuckled mentaly. "Sephora, do you like Starlight?" The golden dragon seemed to blush. "Leave me be." she said. Normally she wasn't so sharp but she didn't want to admit it. She more than liked Starlight. His scales dazzled her and she wanted to win his attention and admiration.

The young rider shrugged. "I've tried that before. I can feel it but I can't break the barrier," he said. He knew once the barrier was broken he would be able to use magic freely and not have to fight so hard to break it the next time.

[Nepherion]

" The strain is indeed increasing, something is against us aiding your rider. " he said, feeling the slightest touch of a foreign resistance against his power. He squeezed more magic out of himself, hoping that with force he could fight off the enemy of Rakaio's mind. A low growl came from the ancient soul as his meddling was ceased by a mysterious force. " Unpredictable is no longer the case. This magic is deliberate. Whatever lurks in your Rider's soul doesn't want anyone aiding him. It wants him alone. " Bid'Daum felt helpless and yet he felt he had done all he could. Entas' question would be a hard one to answer, for he had never dealt with the magic of a Grey-Folk before, this was entirely new to him. " I'm sorry, but for now Rakaio will have to handle himself. " The white beast stopped the flow of his vast magic and withdrew within himself, handing control of her body back to Entas.

Inside himself, Bid'Daum thought intently. He had only grazed against the vendetta of Rakaio's heart, but he knew already that it was a complex and dangerous magic. Much more so than many of their own forbidden spells. Though something confounded him. He wasn't sure whether the magic was malignant or benevolent. It all seemed like a big secret to him. Of all his years with Eragon he knew of only one spell that could possibly help Rakaio, but the drain was monumental. It would be tiring, even for one as powerful as him. " For now we wait and keep a close eye on your Rider. " he told her, quite unsure on what to do.



Starlight's spiked head followed Sephora until she had stopped. He brought his head slowly down to her and nudged her, slightly confused at her sudden halt. " Are you tired ? " he chuckled deeply, feeling the vibration in his throat rise to his skull. " Do not worry Golden one. You will grow one day, of this I'am sure. " Starlight rose to his paws and shook his body of the weariness that grasped him. " Nepherion. Would you like to fly ? Its been quite a little while since we landed. " he told him, stepping lightly towards the two. His massive size, blocked out some of the rising sun's light and brought a shadow over the two boys.

" There has to be some way to break it. " said Nepherion, convinced that Caspain's magic wasn't forever locked away. He raised a cuff hand to his chin and folded his arm under its elbow. His thoughts were just getting somewhere when Starlight's regal voice sounded in his mind. " Umm. Sure, would you like for Caspian and Sephora to join us ? " he asked. Starlight took a moment to think than answered, though his feelings and thoughts had already told Nepherion all he needed. " I wouldn't mind them if they came. " Nepherion smiled inwardly than looked up at Starlight's under-jaw. " Alrighty than. " he said clapping his hand together one time. " Caspian, would you and Sephora like to accompany us in the sky ? "

[Emiryal ♕]

Entas grew increasingly worried as Bid'Daum spoke. She was circling now rather than flying in any particular direction. "What could be so power it blocks even you?" she asked. Surely the old dragon would have more than enough strength to be rivaled by very few obstacles. Was it the grey folk magic? He had said it was powerful. If so then Rakaio himself was blocking it intentionally or perhaps unintentionally. She wished she could help him but no matter what she did she could not penetrate the barrier blocking her from Rakaio. She felt helpless. All they could do was wait and there was a chance her rider wouldn't make it. If he didn't then what would she do without him?

----
Rakaio faced the unknown rider and wearily raised his blade. The rider attacked ferociously using a combination of magic and skill. Strangely as the other rider used magic it drained Rakaio. It didn't take him long to fall and he found the rider's blade at his throat ready to kill him. He was breathing hard and his heart raced. "If I am to die at least tell me who you are," he demanded.

The rider laughed. "You already know me," said a familiar voice. The rider pulled off his helmet to reveal...Rakaio? He was fighting himself, but no this other self was his dark side. how could he defeat himself? He was weakened and if he didn't die here a few more spells would kill him.

Desperation sank in. There was no way out of this, he would die either by the darkness or by using magic. But this battle was all in his mind, if he lost here the darkness in him would over power him and he'd become like Galbatorix.

If he was going to die either way at least he wouldn't go down without a fight. "Any last words?" his dark self offered but pressed his blade closer into Rakaio's neck drawing blood now.

Rakaio closed his eyes for a moment then opened them. Shear determination filled his gaze. And he reached for the last remains of his magic. Maybe if he used it all his darkself would be destroyed with him, at least then he would not end up like Galbatorix.

He opened his mouth to speak the words of a powerful spell to summon light and fire. It was a spell he'd never cast before, as he feared fire, but he feared the darkness more. As he tried to speak though no words came but the spell still took effect. A blazing and blinding light ray laced with fire shot from his hand towards the darkness. His dark self retreated and defended himself with a spell. Rakio felt himself drained completely as the magic need for both spells was taken from him and he collapsed on the floor the last of his magic slowly draining from him.

Then he felt it, within his magic was another barrier! He had never noticed it before but it was foreign, powerful, ancient and unpredictable. He pushed against the barrier relentlessly, and just before he thought it was hopeless the barrier broke! A massive tide of energy filled him restoring his energy beyond his normal limits. He smiled at his dark self and without speaking a word summoned a light that struck his dark self...defeating it!

----

Moments later Rakio awoke. He was laying against Entas staring at her brown scales. Bid'Daum's Eldunari was in his hands. He was breathing fast and his heart was racing. Words echoed in his mind. Well done, Rakaio, well done. The words were from his grandmother. Magic is part of your very being. Grey-folk magic is powerful, unpredictable and must be used wisely. Then the voice faded from his mind.

He felt tired but at the same time his magic and energy were restored despite having cast many spells that had taxed his magic. In fact if anything he felt there was more energy than there had been before.

Entas had turned her head and was watching him concerned. She had felt his energy rise and while relieved was very confused. She found Rakaio's mind still blocked from her by the same ancient barrier as before. She whimpered and tried to get his attention. His gaze met her's and he let the barrier melt away allowing her and Bid'Daum to establish contact with him once more. He did not sit up though and remained laying against Entas.




"I am not tired, just lost in thought," Sephora explained. She didn't want to say what she'd been thinking about. "I hope you are right about that. I do not wish to remain small forever."

"I would most enjoy that," Sephora said to Caspian before he could even ask her if she wanted to go. "We would like that," he said. "I hope you are right and I hope I can break it soon. I don't want to have to fight Empire riders without magic. I'll be dead if I face one of them." The thought scared him, the Empire riders seemed so formidable and if Murtagh or Thorn showed up there was a chance he'd be killed or captured.

Sephora cut off Caspian from her thoughts so she could speak with Starlight alone. "Glaedr once told me that riders often were given impossible tasks that forced them to use their magic to accomplish. Maybe such a method would help my rider?" Then she sent and image of her throwing him off her back in mid flight so he'd be forced to use magic to save himself. The only problem was if he failed to use magic she didn't know if she could catch him in time.

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum remained silent for awhile. He was thinking on the possibility of such a power existing besides Galbatorix himself. " Maybe its not someone else, but Rakaio himself. " he muttered. He decided not to go to far into it until he had all the pieces connected. Besides, for now he was worried on whether or not Rakaio would be capable of combating such a power. Rakiao was possibly the strongest Rider they had right now. Even stronger than Oromis was. If he was to perish now than Galbatorix would have another advantage over them, one that could have possible tipped the scale.

As he awaited, Bid'Daum decided it would be best to refill his reserves. Rakaio's actions, had drained him greatly. Bid'Daum felt as tinge as Rakaio's thoughts return and he knew than that Rakaio had survived. But even more amazing was the fact that he returned with a greater store of magical energy. Bid'Daum touched his and Entas' mind. " What happened Rakaio? Did you defeat your darkness ? " he asked, partially on guard. He knew if the answer was no than Rakaio would no longer be the same. Having a battle with ones' darkness could turn someone into a much more horrible being. One that was driven by anguish and hatred. A rider with Rakaio's strength could not be permitted to live with such hatred in their heart. His crystal gem sparked with tendrils of yellow and blue as he spoke ready to launch a mental attack if the answer was no.



Nepherion's smile widen at Caspian's answer. " Great. Don't worry to much about, your magic will come in time. " He headed towards Starlight and expected Caspian to the do the same with Sephora. He knew that this would be a great ride. He and Starlight always tended to get along better when riding in the sky, the experience was just unifying. Nepherion reached up and touched Starlight's front paw. " You ready ? "

Starlight looked towards Sephora as her voice reached him. " So do you think a life or death situation will awaken his power ? " he asked devising a plan of his own. Starlight smiled a little, sending a small image of his joy to Sephora. " That would be bad, but what If instead of that we do something else. " he sent an image of Nepherion wielding Brojska towards Caspian, while Caspian was pushed against a wall and Caspian releasing a spell towards Nepherion. " Do you think that would work ? Its much more manageable than dropping him from the sky. "

Nepherion listened in on the conversation, not to sure about Starilght's plan. " Guys I heard everything and I'm not to sure I'm comfortable with it. " Nepherion disliked the act of suddenly attacking a friend. He could imagine the feeling of betrayal grasping at him if it was the other way around. Starlight brought his gaze on Nepherion before speaking. " Don't you think he would be grateful to you for helping him ? " Nepherion looked towards Caspian. " I don't know. I would think he would though. And I did say I would help him." he reminded himself. Nepherion looked back up at Starlight than to Sephora. " Ask her if she agrees with this. If she does, than I'll do it. "

Starlight looked towards Sephora. " What do you think ? " he asked.

[Emiryal ♕]

Entas' full attention was focused on her rider. She was just as eager but anxious to hear what happened. If Rakaio had not defeated the darkness in him she'd probably have to attack him for his own good. She wouldn't let him become like Galbatorix, but she didn't want to live without him either.

Rakaio didn't answer immediately. "I think I defeated it," he said. He let a flow of his memories replay for both Bid'Daum and Entas to see. The memories only were of his confrontation with his darkness. Without meaning too an emotion of fear was shown as well revealing Rakaio's fear of fire but yet using a fire spell against the darkness anyways despite his terror. Before he waited for either of the to respond he cut them both off from his mind and started to quietly whisper something inaudible, his true name. Nothing happened, it did not resonate with him now. He let his mind open to the dragon's again but did not explain why he had suddenly cut them off. He wasn't surprised that his true name had changed after going through that but now he didn't know who he was! He had known his true name for so long it was unnerving to realize he no longer knew himself.

Caspian followed Nepherion towards Starlight as Sephora was on the far side. She waited for him while he tightened the straps on the saddle and braced himself. Relax, Sephora said realizing Caspian was rather tense. Don't you like flying, she asked.Sephora I've only flown twice with you. I don't particularly enjoy it yet, Caspian complained. He wasn't used to how Sephora banked or turned let alone took off or landed. He was sure in time he'd get used to it and it wasn't like he had a choice. He was a rider after all.

Keeping her conversation hidden from Caspian, Sephora resumed her conversation with Starlight. With this war against the Empire, Caspian unlocking his magic can't wait. He tries to hard to break the barrier. I think only something unexpected and requiring magic will have a chance of helping him do that. I would like to try it, the gold dragon said. "Caspian certainly won't like it and might stew for a few days but his friendship runs to deep with Nepherion and besides if it works it will have been worth it."

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum let out air of relief at Rakaio's answer. He was happy that he would not have to turn his mind to a never-ending torment of scream and agonizing terrors. He had relived Rakaio's struggles and had felt a sense of pride in the offspring of the Rider's academy but before he could see anymore the connection was cut. Bid'Daum picked up on the wondering emotions that Rakaio had when he returned to them. " What is the matter ? " he asked, his tone even and stern.



Starlight brought his gaze back on Nepherion after receiving Sephora's answer. " She agrees as well. " he said bring his snout closer to Nepherion, his slants for pupils looking up at Caspain as he tightened the straps for Sephora's flight.

Nepherion raised a hand up to Starlight's jaw, rubbing it softly before placing his forehead on the side of it. " I just hope he doesn't hate me for this." he muttered concerned. " He will thank you in the long run for this Nepherion. Now go, friend of broken-Riders" he joked, nudging Nepherion towards Caspain. Nepherion tossed his mind to Sephora's; discreetly. " Okay, I'm starting. " he warned her, drawing Brojska from it scabbard and approaching quickly. The blade shimmer just as vibrant as before, its ivory frame still looking immaculate.

The gap between them wasn't much. Nepherion had little time to think of a plan. He knew that Starlight was in close contact with his mind and he had cut Sephora off, not feeling comfortable with sharing the mind of another Rider's dragon. " I guess I'll just improvise. " he told himself nervously but driven by his will. He held Brojska out to his side and stopped sword length from Caspain, his gaze was filled with malice and his voice seriousness. " Caspain. . .I'm going to cut that barrier down. One way - " He raised Brojska up and slashed towards the Rider's chest, being sure to keep Sephora out of harms way and being just slow enough that Caspain could get out the way in time. " Or another ! " he barked, he wrapped another hand around Brojska's handle preparing for another swing.

[Emiryal ♕]

Rakaio sighed and paused before answering Bid'Daum. "My true name has changed...I don't know who I am any more," he said. It had taken him years to learn his true name the first time and it hadn't ever drastically changed before. This time it had drastically changed and he knew it would take some time for him to learn it again. He felt lost without knowing it.

Sephora acknowledged Nepherion's comment to her before he withdrew from her mind. She watched intently wondering how Caspian would react. He might get upset at her too for one being in on this and two not helping him.

Caspian was startled by Nepherion's sudden attack. "Nepherion, what are you doing!" he cried out. This didn't seem like his friend at all, what was going on! He flinched as Brojska sliced his skin on his chest. He had tried to dodge the attack but had only been partially successful due to his surprise. He hand flew to his chest, blood seeped from the wound but it was very shallow. Seeing Nepherion ready for another swing he reached for Naegling. The golden sword looked magnificent but Caspian looked unsure of himself. He was getting better at fighting with a sword but he had only started using his rider blade two days ago. He'd used practice swords before that, and he wasn't used to the heavier weight. He held up the sword trying to block Brojska. "Sephora!" he cried out for help.

The golden dragon watched but did not move to help him.

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum took a moment to think over the situation. " This must be the cost of your new power. You've just gone through something that has altered your name. It will take you a while to find it again, but atleast now you need not fear what you hadn't known before." Bid'Daum made himself comfortable in the palms of Rakaio's hands and stretched a thought of relief to Entas. " I'am pleased with your resolve not to let your partner fall into darkness. " he assured her, speaking on her reluctant yet strong feelings, if her Rider had gone crazy with power.



Nepherion walked forwards with smug shrug of his shoulders." That's it, draw your blade and have it broken. Without magic your no match for me. " he bragged calmly while sticking his palm out towards him. " Reisa, Caspian " he said, turning his palm upwards and attempting to lift the boy three feet off the ground. A devilish grin appearing on his face. " Without your magic your nothing less than my play thing. Its like dirt versus a mountain, you'll always end up beneath me. "

Starlight was shocked at how well Nepherion was playing his role. It was almost commendable, if he hadn't look so serious. The large dragon took a small step forwards, only to get a better view and look to be supporting Nepherion's act. His vicious jaws snapped together and a roar echoed from his throat, along with a wave of furiously heated white fire.

[Emiryal ♕]

Rakaio nodded reluctantly. It still was unnerving not to know who he was after all this time. He knew who Entas was, her real name but not his own. He would have to explore his new power and work on finding his true name again. "I have conquered that which would destroy me. While I might not know who I am or the extent of my power, I am still a rider perhaps I could help Nepherion in his training, though I am not yet ready to join the Varden's cause."

Entas let her joy at Rakaio being safe now be felt by Bid'Daum. "I am glad it did not come to that. I know Rakaio would not wish for me to allow him to fall to darkness. Though if it had come to having to stop him, I fear I would die of grief from the loss of my rider."

Caspian's heart was racing. Nepherion was right without magic he was no match for the other rider. As the spell took effect Caspian was tossed into the air, the sudden motion made him loose his grip on his sword and the sword fell to the ground out of reach. He tried to struggled to free himself but it was hopeless. "Nepherion what has gotten into you! Please stop," he cried out desperately. "Sephora!" he cried out for his dragon's help.

Sephora knew she had to play along with this. "Starlight stop me, pin me to the ground or something," she said sending an image of her charging Nepherion only to be stopped by Starlight. She roared and darted for Nepherion.

Caspian cringed when Starlight roared and let white fire escape his mouth. He closed his eyes and in desperation pushed at the magic barrier that was always so slippery. Just as before he was unable to breach the barrier. He opened his eyes only to watch in horror as Sephora charged Nepherion. He hadn't realized it till now but due to the size difference if Starlight attacked Sephora wouldn't stand much of a chance.

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum was silent for a moment. His thoughts had strayed from steel silence,for they were own Rakaio's situation. All of it was most odd. He had conquered his darkness, or so they believed. That by itself was means enough for his name to change, but for it to change so drastically was the real problem. And what could have provoked a rise in his overall magic, only a transformation such as Eragon's could provide that.

The immense happiness that flowed from Entas was almost enough to affect him; something he really hadn't mind. Bid'Daum allowed the joyous moment to continue for the two before speaking again. " This is good news. Now that your darkness has been beaten, I have no qualms with you teaching Nepherion. He needs this, his new strength will prove to be overwhelming for his mind." A deep sigh left him before he continued, thinking on the already difficult times he had training the boy. " He maybe strong but he lacks understanding and discipline. "



Starlight got the message and would play his role, though caution gripped him. Sephora was so small, if he hadn't been careful he could really end up hurting her. " Alright but, Sephora do be careful. " he warned. Afterwards he passed the message on to Nepherion. Once she charged after him Starlight shot her a vicious glare. He roared shortly before rushing pass and intercepting her. A fierce paw swept her onto her back, the warm from it was intense as he laid it on her body loosely. The immaculate dragon allowed her breathing from in-between his talons before turning his head to Nepherion. His tail swayed only a few feet over the ground and his wing were outstretch to inspire fear. " You're turn Nepherion. "

A maniacal cackle came from Nepherion as his sword-wielding hand rose into the air lazily. He was honestly surprised with how fast Starlight was for size. " Nicely done buddy. Now to continue with my performance. " he joked. He turned his gaze from Starlight and Sephora and placed it on the floating Caspian. " Did you really think Sephora could help you... " his tone adapting a calm yet sinister intent. " If I really wanted I could kill you. If any Rider wanted they could kill you. "

Nepherion walked over to the floating Caspian, his eyes glancing down towards the golden Rider blade on the ground. He crouched down and picked it up. The craftsmanship was amazing, it held much more detail and magic then Brojska had. He guessed it was because it was newer. Nepherion held both blades to his side. " Do you want to lose Sephora ? " he asked, his stifling gaze lifting up to meet Caspian's.

[Emiryal ♕]

An almost musical but earthy laughter filled their minds as Entas laughed. "Ebrithil, that is exactly what Rakaio and I used to be like," she said. "We will do our best to help guide him," Rakaio said not enjoying his dragon's amusement tho it was true.

The rider leaned over the side of Entas to look down at the ground below. He slipped Bid'Daum's Eldundari into a saddle bag to secure it then loosened his straps. Without warning Entas he leaned over and let himself slid off of her side.

Entas roared in fear when she saw her rider fall. She tucked her wings and dove after him letting gravity pull her down. "Entas' it's alright. I'm just trying something out," Rakaio said. Entas opened her wings to stop her decent. Within moments Rakaio returned, he was using magic to imitate flying. When he reached her he landed on the saddle and slumped over as if exhausted. "What were you doing?" Entas asked. "Using the deep magic I unlocked...it's hard to control, that's why I fell when I got off of you," he said. "We should get back to Starlight and Nepherion," Entas said.

Sephora knew it was coming but Starlight's speed caught her off guard and she found the wind knocked out of her from being swept onto her back. She wasn't hurt though but she roared as if she were and pretended to struggle against Starlight's talons.Caspian looked desperate and worried for his dragon. He wasn't looking at Nepherion but Sephora and Starlight. "I don't know what you want but just don't hurt Sephora!," he yelled. He redoubled his effort to move but to no avail.

He only had one option left, magic. He closed his eyes and threw himself at the barrier in his mind relentlessly. He couldn't afford to fail, he needed to break the barrier to save Sephora! Suddenly the barrier shattered and a flood of magic seemed to envelope his mind. He glared at Nepherion. "Leave Sephora alone!" he yelled. "Thrysta Skulblaka!" The spell was intended to attack Starlight and hopefully give Sephora time to get away. He had chosen to use the spell to save his dragon rather than himself.

As soon as the spell took effect Caspian felt it drain him almost to a dangerous level. Starlight was large and it would take a lot of magic to so much as shove him. Caspian never knew if the spell worked or if Sephora was free as blackness formed on the edge of his vision just before he blacked out.

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum was as equally surprised as Entas, though his worry had been masked by a masculine-like bravado. Within the confines of his minds, he allowed his tendrils to stretch through out the sky, feeling for the results of such a reckless act. As his mind touched that of Entas' and Rakaio, he had received his answered.

" To test your new powers you risk your life ?... " The image of him shaking his head slowly was showed to the two. " Such an act is unbecoming of an elda, " he steely reminded them. " If you are too test your strength, than do not let it be under such circumstances, Rakaio. "

Bid'Daum sighed in the confines of his mind space, leaving them to themselves after his small scolding. He was ready to get back to Nepherion and Starlight, those two had a knack for getting into trouble. More so, Nepherion than Starlight. He was growing apprehensive of the results that he would stumble into. Hopefully the two were still waiting patiently together, perhaps even meditating on their faults and indecision.



Nepherion's conscious was beginning to take a beating from Caspian's desperate and despairing appearance. How was he to attack a friend on the verge of losing his very being. But he couldn't stop, he knew this was what he needed, seeing his Dragon partner in trouble would be more than enough to draw out his inner magic. " Don't hurt her ? How about you stop me, " he mocked, turning his back on Caspian and yet still holding the magic entrapping him. " Oh yea... You can't can you. " His words were steel, even, and tinged with a bit of hostility as he looked over his shoulder with passionate cerulean eyes.

" Patheti- "

Caspian's uproar broke the act instantly. Nepherion knew the anger and rage in his eyes, It was that of a broken and desperate man. He clenched his teeth as the realization of Caspian taking aim for Starlight instead of him hit him. " NO! " he barked, releasing the spell caging Caspain and drawing from the energy in both Brojska in the golden blade. " Skölir Skulblaka! " he roared, raising a shield up and over Starlight. He couldn't help the reaction that had came from him. It was instinctual, primitive in actual thought.

With the help of Brojska and Caspian's own blade, Nepherion was capable of blocking most of the spell with little exhaustion. His breathe was light but evidence of effort could be heard. He placed his hand on both of his knees as he kneeled over. " You okay, Starlight ? " he asked, looking over towards him. The gleaming gems of white that was his scales shimmered brightly as he released Sephora from under his paw and shook his body lightly. " I should be asking you that question ? " he retorted worry on his barbed tongue.

The earth shook as Starlight pawed his way towards the knelt Nepherion and nudged him with his massive jowl, causing Nepherion to straighten himself up, holding both the blades tightly. " Well he finally did it buddy. " Starlight brought his crimson gaze on Caspian, his eyes looking at the exhausted boy. " Took him long enough though. " His tone both regal and youthful as he raised his head high. With a smile that was both cheerful and familiar, Nepherion walked up to the Caspian, his left hand swirling the golden rider blade and stabbing it into the earth three feet from newly made mage. " This belongs to you friend. "

[Emiryal ♕]

Rakaio slumped slightly in the saddle. "I'm sorry Bid'Daum, Ebrithil. It was foolish of me to attempt that. I did not intend to risk my life...I misjudged my own strength. This new magic is extremely hard to control, it feels like raw energy," he said.

Entas began to descend towards Nepherion and Starlight. She landed gracefully despite her grand size. She crouched so Rakaio would not have as far to jump off her back, though the distance was still quite a bit.

Rakaio pulled Bid'Daum's Eldundari from the saddle bags and wearily jumped down from Entas' back, landing hard. "Thank you Ebrithil," he said. Where it not for the old dragon he would not have overcome his darkness. He paused to take in the scene, Caspian was unconscious. What had happened here. "What happened?" he asked concerned. He walked over towards Nepherion and offered Bid'Daum's Eldunari back.





Caspian crumpled to the ground unconscious when Nepherion released him. His breathing was shallow and somewhat irregular.

When Starlight let her go Sephora darted to Caspian's side and she transferred some of her energy to stabilize him. When she saw her Rider was fine the gold dragon looked back at Starlight and Nepherion. "Thank you," she said her voice light and airy sounding. She glanced at the golden sword when Nepherion stabbed it into the ground near by. "Do you know that sword's name?" she asked Nepherion and Starlight. She didn't wait for a response. "The sword is Naegling...Oromis and Gladaer's rider blade." she explained. "There is plenty of energy in the crystal. If you need it take some energy to replenish yourself as my thanks."

She glanced up to see Entas land. She felt so small next to the large dragon.

[Nepherion]

Nepherion and Starlight looked up in unison as Entas landed softly on the earth below them. Even still, her landing had caused a small tremor to shake Nepherion and make Starlight crouch slightly so he wouldn't shake. " She is astoundingly huge. I can only wish that I grow that big one day. " Starlight told Nepherion.

Nepherion crossed his arms behind his head, and crossed his right foot over his left ankle, all the while tapping its sole against the ground and smiling at him. " No worries, I'm sure you will one day. But besides that... I'm really happy to have helped Caspian uncover his magic. " He said while release a warm feeling of achievement out towards Starlight. " And I'am proud of you for doing so. " Starlight said with a hint of pride in his words.

Nepherion turned towards Rakiao as he approached. " Oi nothing. " he answered with a fading smile. " I was just helping a friend out with a tansy problem. " It was obvious that the boy was downplaying the situation.

Nepherion grasped Brojska's handle in both his hand and held it out in front of him vertically, thinking back to the battle that just occurred. " This sword of mines is pretty awesome, but it pales in comparison to the newer ones. " It was than that he could feel Bid'Daum's reprimanding mind invading his own. " THAT sword was forged with the thoughts of the future in mind. It may hold some of the more 'ancient' touches to its handle and guard but I assure you its blade is just as strong as any after it. If Eragon could wield it than you should be honored to do the same." A light chuckle came from Nepherion as Bid'Daum quickly defended his late masters weapon. " You're right elda. Forgive my quick tongue... For, " Nepherion paused as he brought the blade around in a circle and quickly slained an invisible enemy with a diagonal slash in front of him. " It has never failed me before and I doubt it will now. " After that Nepherion hastily approached Rakaio and with the elven greeting -with him being the lesser- took custody of Bid'Daum's eldunari again.

Hearing Sephora's voice, Nepherion looked over towards her and attached Bid'Daum's pouch to his side, along with the spell that would keep him there as long as he and the dragon held magic . A smile lifted his youthful features as he walked over towards her and plopped down in front of Naegling, criss-crossed. He placed his palm against the golden blade and closed his eyes. Through some force or feeling, he could actually feel its history. " Its been through so much. Hehe, it was actually upset when I used it against your Rider. " he told Sephora aloud. " Its choosen its new wielder... And its without a doubt Caspian. "

[Emiryal ♕]

Rakiao raised an eye brow at Nepherion's words. It certainly was obvious that what had happened was more than a small thing. He sighed, he wasn't sure what had happened but it seemed no real harm had been done. He returned the elven greeting to Nepherion, appreciating the respect the younger rider had shown him by speaking first.

Sephora watched as Nepherion approached her rider's sword. She was surprised at his words. "Yes, it has been through much," she said. She wasn't sure through how much as Gladaer had never told her anything about it. "I did not know a sword could choose its wielder, but I think you are right. Naegling reacts well to my rider."

Rakaio had walked over to where Caspian lay unconscious. But he was halted by Sephora, as she placed herself between her rider and Rakaio.

Sephora and Caspian had not yet met the ancient rider and dragon and Sephora wasn't about to let a stranger near her rider.

Rakaio bowed to Sephora, despite how old he was dragons were always to be respected. "Golden scales, I only wish to help your rider," he said. "Eka weohnata néiat haina ono."

Sephora hesitated a moment then moved aside. The ancient rider knelt down by Caspian. "What happened golden scales?" he asked. Sephora quickly told him what had happened through a mass of images rather than words. Rakaio glanced up at Nepherion and Starlight looking at them with disapproval. This was not the way magic should be unlocked. It was dangerous to do it this way.

He mumbled more of the ancient language to cast a spell to revive Caspian. Instead of Caspian regaining consciousness a near by rock exploded in quite a spectacular fashion. Rakaio raised an arm defensively to stop fragments of rock from hitting him. But none came as Sephora had used her wing to shield Rakaio and her rider.

Rakaio sighed in frustration and stood up, one hand clenched into a fist. Magic wasn't knew to him but suddenly he no longer felt in control of it. His magic was raw now, as in greyfolk magic, and it would take time for him to learn how to control it again.