are you ready for a perfect storm? [empire war council]

[Emiryal ♕]

A loud resounding clang echoed through the great hall as Murtagh disarmed the final trap protecting the great hall. It was a particular nasty trap and extremely difficult to disarm if you didn't know exactly what you were doing. However, it posed little trouble to the Empire's Champion and General. He was used to this and having his life in constant danger, in a way it gave an heightened sense of awareness that often could save his life. But there was little threat from the trap, he'd disarmed it plenty of times before.

As the final trap disengaged he waved his hand and muttered a word to command the doors to open, and they complied opening outwards. As soon as the gates were open he walked into the well lit room. A fire burned on the massive hearth and plenty of magical and non magical lights lit the room. Thorn followed Murtagh into the room. Aside from Shruikan who was almost always here, no one else was in the room. A large table had been placed in the center of the room for the war council to meet. A few refreshments and drinks filled the table, but not enough to make anyone loose their head to the effects of wine.

Murtagh was wearing something more akin to ceremonial armor than actual battle armor. The idea was to inspire not to protect him. And it did the job well. The armor was masterfully created and fitted for him. His real armor would protect him much better but moral right now was important here. He ran a hand through his hair to straighten it a bit. The chairs around the table were identical except for one that was a bit more elaborate, the king's chair. Without hesitation Murtagh pulled out the chair to the right of the King's. It was customary for him to be at the right hand side of Galbatorix during formal meetings as he was Second only to the King, a fact he knew some resented.

Thorn had moved near Shruikan and settled down to wait for the rest of the council. The room was large enough to accommodate all the Empire's dragons, a fact Murtagh appreciated. Despite the refreshments on the table no servants came to refill cups or the plates of food. Only the council were allowed in this room now. Guards had been posted and countless spells put in place to prevent any but those invited to enter the room.

Reports from their spies and informants had brought news they all new was coming. The Varden were getting ready to attack Uru'baen. They had known this could happen for a while and since loosing the last city and resorted to amassing all of the army here. Every last rider, every last soldier and every last spellcaster. They were ready and had stockpiles of weapons and ammunition the Varden could only dream to match. After all this city was a stronghold and it wasn't going to fall easily.

They couldn't rely on numbers alone though they needed a plan or even the most trained or largest army would fall. But desire this Murtagh couldn't help but smile as he sat there, a knowing look in his gaze. There was one thing the Varden didn't know yet...Galbatorix had figured out the Name of Names, the true name of the ancient language, and Murtagh knew that word now. Galbatorix had put spells in place to prevent anyone else from learning it even if he spoke it aloud. The Varden wouldn't know what hit them.

Just then a rift into what appeared a black nothingness appeared near the door and Reru came out of it. The Prince glared at Murtagh for a moment. He was Galbatorix's son, and felt he had a right to the thrown but Murtagh was second in command not him. This had long created a strain in their relationship but what once had been all out fighting about it had been reduced to a bit of glare or just disrespect now and then. Reru knew he had to bide his time if he wanted to go after it.

As Reru moved towards the table a purple dragon also came through the rift, as soon as her tail was clear the rift closed behind her. Avendel glanced somewhat nervously around the room until she spotted Shruikan. She moved towards him and did something close to a dragon's form of a bow to him. "Hello father," she said. Just as Reru was Galbatorix's son, she was Shruikan's daughter. A fact she seldom made known to anyone. Reru's mother and Avendel's mother had been a paired rider and dragon, a member of the foresworn. And both had perished during the war, which Avendel was sure had contributed to Reru's madness.

Reru took the seat to the left of Galbatorix's chair. While he wasn't second in command he was privileged enough to claim a sit near his father. He was sure his sister would be joining them, she always managed to get involved in this kind of stuff it seemed. And while that made him worry he was glad he could count on her to be there.

He wore formal clothing but unlike Murtagh was not wearing any armor. Instead in mocking to him he wore his crown marking him as a Prince. A silence fell over the room an oppressive silence and Reru didn't dare speak to Murtagh although he was watching him. They would wait a while more for more council members and for Galbatorix himself before a single word was uttered. Besides they didn't have much to say to each other.


((Note: The Empire War Council consists of Galbatorix, Murtagh, Reru, and Clarissa. These characters and only these characters will be able to enter the room. Any other character trying to enter will be stopped by guards or prevented by the spells. This is about the Empire coming up with a strategy, not character development! If you wish to play any of the canons listed or think someone else should be added to the Council, take it up with a staff member. Thank you!))

[Brenton]

The doors opened with a hollow boom that barely registered in the mind of the person walking through them, a woman of around 100 years in age. Her height, being 5'11", made the woman just shy of average for a man and by far more intimidating when she wore armor. Unfortunately, the woman was Clarissa, daughter of Galbatorix, and she spent her time in the background making traps and poisons to kill more efficiently. Her father had originally tried to keep her from doing even that but Clarissa was not a child and so she had gotten to where she could help with alchemy. Added to that was her intensive knowledge of magic that few people knew but she was bested by those such as Murtagh and Rerukusu.

Across the woman's back were her katanas while she wore the golden whip on her wrist, yet the toxins and explosives were still in Clarissa's chambers. This was a meeting and so she had only brought what she figured would inspire hope in the soldiers instead of fear. Contrary to common belief, explosives and toxins were very fear-inducing. As Clarissa reached the table she looked up and brushed her reddish hair out of her sea-green eyes with a slight curl of her lips in distaste at Murtagh. He may be Champion but Reru was prince and so he should be on the throne. To prove her status as princess, Clarissa had worn her formal attire equipped with a silk sash and a small crown marking her royalty.

Good day, brother, I hope that the trip from the Nether was uninteresting and perfectly safe. She wasn't delusional. This meeting was a war council and that meant that the Varden and elves were amassing to launch an attack on Uru'baen. Quickly the woman looked over at Murtagh again and nodded in respect. Of course I cannot forget our Champion, Murtagh Morzansson. Tell me, Morzansson, how is it that you are on that seat when the son and daughter of Galbatorix are both in the room? It should rightfully go to Rerukusu with me sitting next to him.

[Aelodil]

Sitting on a small chair made to represent the throne behind Shruikan's wings was the king of the Empire, Galbatorix. He watched his two children argue with his right hand and gave a small smile. He couldn't say he didn't enjoy these small quarrels - they were fun to watch and the results were hilarious. Despite not showing it, he was furious at Clarissa's arrival. He had already told her millions of times to stay out of harm's way and yet here she was. Oh well, nothing to do about that now. He drummed his fingers on the arms of the miniature throne silently. He wore formal attire as did his son, Reru, as well as the king's crown. Finally, he decided he should take his seat and begin this council. Signalling Shruikan, who parted his wings ever so slightly to let his master out, he walked towards the table, allowing his boots to clang heavily upon the floor. He smiled at his son, and repeated his daughter's question, "How is the Nether, Reru?"

The smile on Galbatorix's face looked so sincere it was almost impossible to tell that it was a fake smile. He didn't care much for anyone in this room, really. Of them all he preferred Reru the most then Clarissa. Murtagh had no friendly emotions from the mad king who simply thought of him as a tool - a useful one at that. He respected the man to an extent and loved to use him to harm his own friends. He turned to his daughter, Clarissa, and asked, "And tell me, Clarissa, how is it that you are scolding my right hand man when I am in the room? And how is it that you are even in this council? No matter, though. You are here now and there is nothing I can say that will change your mind. Now take a seat, everyone, as it seems everyone is here and the council is ready to begin." Galbatorix finished the statement with a flourish of his hand, gesturing to a seat nearby him for Clarissa to seat herself in.

Finally, Galbatorix sat in his throne and looked around him. His fake smile turned into a sincere one. He enjoyed the three of these peoples' company. Turning back to the matter in hand, he put his hands palm flat down on the table and looked up, a question already on his lips, "How would you like to approach this war? Shall I grace the Varden with my presence or can you three handle a divided command? Either I take control of our armies or I split it into three different units with one of you at the head of each of them. Take it upon yourselves and decide which one is favorable to all of us." He knew the answer would probably be for him to take to the field. After all, these three trusted each other less than a deer trusted a hunter - and that was saying something. He began drumming his fingers on the table, hoping that this 'council' wouldn't turn into the three of them bickering. He could restrain them easily but it would be just a tad bit of a pain.

Shruikan opened his enormous eyes and looked down at his daughter. A small little rumble indicated that he was laughing. So Reru had actually gone through it and brought her back. He beckoned her closer to him and, thanks to the fact that he had finally established a bond of understanding with Galbatorix who finally allowed him partial free reign, reached his mind out to her and contacted her, "Hello, my daughter. It is good to see you. How are you doing?" His voice melancholy dangerous and sweet. He looked at the people spread around the table. Indeed a weird bunch of people they were. How did Galbatorix plan on keeping them from each other's throats? He didn't have a clue. He closed his eyes and went back into a state close to a deep slumber and close to unconsciousness.

(Sorry for the quality and length, low on muse, really ><)

[Emiryal ♕]

Reru couldn't help but smile as Clarissa entered the room. He was glad she had come to the council but part of him was worried for her, if she took part in the battle he didn't want her to get hurt or worse. There were few he cared about in this world but Clarissa was one of them. "Good day sister, and yes my trip was plenty safe," he said. How could it not be right? Few knew how to enter the Nether and he'd come straight here from the main citadel he called home now.

Murtagh casually watched the exchanged until Clarissa addressed him directly. He couldn't say he hadn't seen it coming, he knew full well that was a sore spot and Reru and Clarissa felt it was their right to his position as Champion and General. Maybe they were right, but it didn't matter, it had been Galbatorix's doing. Some days confrontations like this bothered him and he'd snap back at the remark but this time he just smiled. They might be Galbatorix's children but yet the king had given him knowledge that not even Reru or Clarissa knew. If there was any reason for this it was Reru and Clarissa had from birth been heirs to the thrown but he hadn't been. He enjoyed the power yes but his intention had never been to sit on the thrown. Which could be the reason Galbatorix had picked him instead of them, but it wasn't something he was about to ask the king about right now.

"Why don't you ask your father about it instead of me, it was his decision after all," Murtagh said sounding as calm as ever. He didn't seem bothered by the question, not this time at least. That wasn't to say this dispute hadn't gotten bad even violent between them before, but he was in a good mood and wasn't about to get riled up right now.


As soon as the large dragon lifted his wing to let Galbatorix out Murtagh quickly stood up and stood at attention as the King approached the table. It was nothing more than a formality and show of respect. He hadn't known the King was here but he had learned through his life to always be ready for anything.

Reru glared at Murtagh for a second when he stood. Was he trying to tick him off or show off? Reru didn't stand as his father approached. "The Nether is well, and my citadel has been completely restored," he informed his father. He didn't want to say too much on it as he wanted to keep it to himself. He had never mentioned the Elder's crown that gave him massive amounts of power from Ender, but he had a sneaking suspicion Galbatorix might already know of it. He smiled back at his father though he wasn't sure the king was completely sincere, it was very hard to tell and he would've thought he was sincere about it if he didn't know him well.

As Galbatorix requested Murtagh took a seat and waited for the king to finish speaking. "Our numbers are strong and on our side, I can take Eragon and Saphira. But dividing command may not be wise, we need to at least stay in contact so we can better counter the Varden's moves. I believe we can handle, if you did fight with us it would be a huge demoralizing blow to the Varden," he said. He didn't trust Reru or Clarissa, no, but a divided command could be a major blow to them as much as he didn't like the idea of working with the other two at the table it was necessary.

Reru rolled his eyes as Murtagh spoke. "Father I could command the army by myself if needed, the Varden won't be a problem. Why not put one of us in charge instead of dividing us. I have the most battle experience anyways, you trained me personally you know what I'm capable of," he said. Command was something his father had rarely given him. Murtagh on the other hand had been given command on most of the battles with the Varden such as that of the Burning Plains. In rank, it was Murtagh's rightful place as the General and Champion. Reru wanted it but doubted Galbatorix would agree, it was worth a try though.

Avendel shrunk slightly when Shruikan looked at her as though a child who was in trouble. It wasn't that she thought he would harm her, but his rider was what worried her more. His tone was surprising similar to Galbatorix's that charismatic yet dangerous tone. Worry gripped her as Shruikan glanced at the table, certainly an odd bunch. She hoped it wouldn't turn violent, she didn't want Reru to get hurt. "I'm well," she replied briefly to the large dragon, she might have said more but she could feel his mind slip into a deep slumber and didn't want to irritate him by speaking. After a moment hesitation she moved closer to him, step by step until she was right next to his front leg. She ducked under his wing then turned around and partially came back out so only her head was showing as she laid down next to him. She closed her eyes and leaned against him. A lot had changed but being with Shruikan made her feel safe like she had as a hatchling. She feared him but not enough to stay away, he was her father after all.

[Brenton]

Clarissa watched with guarded eyes as the large black wings opened and her father stepped from the throne, descending and asking the same question she had already uttered. All he did was take credit where credit wasn't due. Why couldn't anyone else see that the king was nothing but a farce and a traitor to his own kind? Still she was the offspring of this man so she simply nodded her head slightly toward her father as he directed his gaze at her. Anger resided in the orbs at her presence and that made the woman feel righteous fury at what he did to her. She was just as important a figure even if she didn't get to fight on the front lines and so she had the right to be in these councils.

With a defiant blaze to her eyes and a vengeful set to her jaw, Clarissa squared her shoulders and the whip handle was in her hand in a second. I am just as strong as a man who has trained all his life in war, father, and you cannot keep me from being in these council. Stop trying and maybe you will be able to focus on what is actually happening in the world. Did we not alert you when the Surdan people succeeded and the Varden cropped up? Listen to others instead of treating them as if they are weak and unimportant for once.

As she finished speaking, the second in line to the throne by blood spun to Murtagh with murder in her entire body. You are only able to get near them because you saved them after leaving the Empire. Even at the Burning Plains you let Eragon live free when our father told you not to! What sort of treacherous heathen scum does that unless they do not deserve the praise they get from a king? Don't act high and mighty because even Galbatorix doesn't trust you but you are too busy fawning over the power that you're getting.

Clarissa breathed deeply but it didn't help any so she let the whip handle recoil onto her wrist and with blinding speed drew both katanas from off her back. She slammed them down on the table and a resounding crash echoed forth through the great hall to the halls outside but no guards entered. If you want the truth, father, then I think you are too blinded by hatred for the Varden to be able to fight to your full abilities. Let Reru and I lead two branches of the army and then Murtagh can stand here and grovel by your side and lick your boots like he always does!

Clarissa hadn't sat down so she pulled out a map and several pins with flags colored red, blue, and green that she laid on the table in front of her. She unrolled the map and began to put the flags on the prepared map. On the map it showed all of Alagaesia where the Varden controlled what and the Empire controlled the rest. Around Uru'baen was a dark double line and she placed the red flags around that line. Some she placed in the hills just North of Uru'baen. The blue flags were placed on the map to the South where the Varden would be coming from and the green were in the Northeast where the elves were located. Clarissa looked up and waited for a reaction from everyone, never letting the swords leave easy reach.

[Aelodil]

Galbatorix's eyes had a suddenly dangerous glint in them. The aura in the room along with the temperature took a huge drop. The lights began to shimmer and shake as did the whole room as Galbatorix stood up. He continued to cast a spell, flinging the swords from Clarissa's reach."Watch your tongue, Clarissa! You forget your place, insolent child! Do you even know who you are talking to? Take your seat and keep that running mouth of yours under control." Galbatorix roared at his daughter. He continued up the spell, pointing at her then to the chair next to her, directing his magic to have her seat herself. Galbatorix remained standing, furious at this point in his daughter's actions. Too rash. This was for the most reason why he preferred his son, Reru. His son was like him in many ways and unlike his foolish daughter doesn't lose his composure so easily.

Shruikan gave a piercing roar that shook the entire palace. Galbatorix took his seat once again as all sounds in the palace were drowned out. He eyed his son, wondering how he would react. Then he looked back to Murtagh. He respected the man for being able to hold his composure after his two children had provoked him so much, but at the same time wasn't sure he trusted him with the task of capturing Eragon and Saphira. Leaving the whole command of the army to Reru wasn't such a bad idea. He pondered it. He sat with one leg over the other and his Rider blade spread across his legs, the bone white pale blade of the sword seemed to be screaming for agony. Closing his eyes, Galbatorix decided to come to a conclusion - he would take the field while keeping Reru as his right hand lieutenant and let Reru make the decisions and act as the Commander in his own right. Reru was right, he did indeed know what his son was capable of - after all, he had trained him himself.

Shruikan couldn't help but feel his daughter's distress and fear of him. He woke himself and looked down at her with a smile in his emotions. He reached out with his mind and said to her, "You have truly matured, Avendel. I apologize for frightening you. Please, be at ease, I have control over myself again finally. I sense you have much you wish to talk about with me - go ahead, talk, and I will listen to you." Shruikan couldn't help but be touched by his daughter's concern. He made sure that his emotions of pride reached her as he laid his head next to hers, a frightening show indeed.

Galbatorix looked up to the faces on the table in front of him. He began stroking his chin, wondering. He agreed with Murtagh - a divided command would be terrible for them, especially if he were to divide it between these three. On the other hand, he wouldn't place Clarissa in charge of the armies. His daughter was far too rash for this kind of a task and he needed absolute success in this battle. This battle was meant to demoralize the Varden's troops, to show them that any further resistance was pointless. He would take the field, however, he would not take direct control. His son will act as the commanding General as Galbatorix's lieutenant. He knew he would not regret putting Reru in this position as Reru was the only one who was in the slightest like Galbatorix. Charming when necessary, however, cold to the core when it comes to battle.

Galbatorix gave a subtle nod. He had decided. He stood up and walked to the map Clarissa had placed. He began to explain his thoughts, "Alright then. Here is what I have decided upon. Murtagh, you will lead a section of the army to the south. Your objective is not to crush the Varden there but rather push them out of the city and make sure that they will have clear sight of the Elves northeast. Clarissa, you will command another section of the army inside the city at the northeast. You will take the larger part of the army in order to push the Elves back out to make sure they are out of the city but within the rest of the Varden's sight. Reru, you will take control of the remaining rest of the army in the mountains to the north. I will accompany you, however, you, Reru, will take supreme command. I would like to see your flower of war bloom in this battle. Reru and I will swoop in with the rest of the army from behind the Elves and crush them. With the Varden being able to witness the Elves, their most powerful allies, crushed so easily, moral will be crushed in the Varden and victory will be ours. Any objections?" He looked around, to make sure to notice anything.

Shruikan gave a small little rumble that resembled a laugh. He looked down at Reru and his father. He contacted Avendel, saying, "Interesting. Galbatorix seems to trust your Rider and is using this as an opportunity for him to prove that he is the true son of Galbatorix. He wants to be able to look at Reru with his eyes as his father and be proud of his accomplishments at war. 'Ts a weird world we live in. However, war has always been a source of glory. Make sure you keep your Rider safe, Avendel, my daughter. He is a strange man, however, I sense great opportunity in him. You are strangely lucky to have this man as your Rider. No matter how cruel he is, it is for his beliefs. And his beliefs include protecting you with all his heart. Indeed an interesting man. So, how go your days now? Are you enjoying yourself?"

(Just play along with what happened to Clarissa. I don't want this council to turn into a fight between the leaders heh)

[Emiryal ♕]

Before Murtagh could respond to Clarissa's spiteful words Galbatorix had stood. He said nothing as Galbatorix spoke and showed his strength with a spell causing temperatures to drop and the room to shake. He knew full well if he contributed to this or argued with Clarissa he would gain the same wrath from the king, at least it wasn't direct at him. That was the last thing he wanted to do; however, when Clarissa had confronted him directly his calm look had flickered to anger as he watched her and he let his hand tighten around Zar'roc's hilt.

Thorn growl moments before Shruikan roared in response to Murtagh's anger at Clarissa and the red dragon was watching Clarissa with narrow eyes. "Murtagh no, we can't. It would only gain Galbatorix's wrath," Thorn said to his rider. The red dragon's growl ceased when he was drowned out by Shruikan's roar, but his gaze continued to linger on the girl. "She would have one of those blades through my heart if she could," Murtagh replied. "So would many others, but being reckless won't help. Calm yourself," Thorn said. After a moment of hesitation Thorn's warning held him back and he released Zar'roc's hilt without ever having drawn the blade. He was sure Clarissa and Galbatorix would've seen the motion but having not acted would hopefully divert Galbatorix's wrath. That was the last thing he wanted. Truth was he didn't want to really hurt Eragon and Saphira, it's why he'd let them go the price had been extreme though and now he had no choice but to comply to Galbatorix's orders.

Without hesitation Reru stood shortly before Galbatorix had himself, the action pushed his chair back some and it clattered somewhat as it scraped on the stone floor. He reached out to touch Clarissa's arm a look of worry crossed his features. It wasn't that he disagreed with her it was that he was worried about what Galbatorix would do and of course it had triggered the king to react as Reru knew it would.

He pulled his hand away instantly when Shruikan roared and his hands flew to his hears to muffle the sound. He had visibly winced when the dragon had roared as it seemed to cause him some pain if not at least discomfort. Which in a way was odd considering he couldn't feel pain. His reaction on this had nothing to do with the situation. Due to his cruxis crystal his senses were heighten more than normal above that of an elf, so Shruikan's roar had been quite deafening to him. Normally he would've attempted to compensate with magic but he'd been focused on Clarissa and had failed to realize the inevitable roar. He recovered quickly enough though and reached out again for Clarissa's arm. He squeezed her arm slightly to get her attention and shook his head slightly at her a subtle cue of warning. "Clarissa, defying him won't help anything, please calm down. You know I agree with you but it's not the time for this, not yet," he said touching her mind and being extremely careful to guard his thoughts from even Galbatorix. It was a difficult task at best and one he'd only been capable of since becoming elder of the psychic branch. Situations like this required being tactful and mistakes like this would be counter productive.

Reru had not sat down though he had let go of Clarissa's arm when Galbatorix had made her sit down. He looked from the map to Galbatorix and waited for him to speak. When he did he was shocked but pleased and he smiled but it was a cold calculating smile and was rather eerily similar to his father's. Supreme Command? This was a first and it delighted him, but this would require careful planning. He couldn't let his father down on this. "Of course father, I will not disappoint you," he said tactfully. "The elves should pose little problem," he added. He disliked elves and humans both so a chance to crush them and harm both was more than welcome.

Murtagh was surprised by Galbatorix's decision. In all the other battles he had been given command. Maybe Clarissa's words had rang out to him or the king didn't trust him. It hurt in a way to not be given what he thought was his, command. But at least if something went wrong it wouldn't be his fault this time, and he wouldn't have to deal with the punishment for failing. His task was important but he wouldn't be as much to blame as Reru. "Of course, the demoralizing blow will certainly help our cause. What of the Varden's riders?" he asked. Obviously there would be at least Eragon and Saphira to deal with and others. They were more of a threat than the elves and would take more resources to deal with. If he and Thorn engaged another rider it would take them away from helping the section they commanded.

Avendel was a bit surprised when Shruikan responded to her and laid his head near her. While it might have been frightening her fear of him seemed to have melted away now and something like a smile appeared on her. "Thank you, it's not you I fear but your rider...and mine. Reru restored me through some of the darkest magic there is, I should not be here, I should've died at Brom's hands. Reru is dangerous," she said glad to talk to someone she could trust. When he commented on the decision she glanced towards the table her gaze finding Reru. Her gaze flickered back to the large dragon by her side when he spoke though. "Reru was not always like this, he once found war rather distasteful and sought to end the suffering of others and end all wars. All that changed now, he is very much like his father now. I'm no longer sure of anything any more," she said. Most of my days are spent in the Nether now, it is a strange place, enjoyment is hard to say." She knew in the battle Reru would take precautions to protect her and ensure she didn't come to any major harm. He couldn't bare to loose her again after all.

[Brenton]

Clarissa saw the blades flung across the room right after the temperature dropped and Reru was standing with his hand on her arm. So her brother cared enough about her to stand by her when Galbatorix was angry with her. Well that was a good and bad thing but the woman could not have Rerukusu take her side in this argument no matter how much she wanted him to. So she removed her arm from his grip and suddenly was propelled into a chair as Galbatorix was yelling at her and Shruikan was roaring.

Even with her anger partially controlling her mind, Clarissa saw the motion from Murtagh as he clenched the hilt of Zar'roc and then released the blade just as suddenly. A small smile crept across her lips and Clarissa turned her attention to the Champion chosen by the king who dared to attack her with magic like so. Do not assume that just because my father is here right now defending you, I cannot make your life miserable. It will be a simple matter to run one of my swords through your heart, poison your food or drink, or even blow you up while you sleep. There is no such thing as a safe haven for someone I despise, and you fall in that category Morzansson.

Clarissa spoke with the smile on her lips and absolute conviction in her eyes as her words took on a sweet honeyed tone. She would kill Murtagh if he ever got in her way again and she wouldn't think twice about what it would do to the Empire or their army. With that, Clarissa waved her hand and the katanas flew back across the room to land right in front of her on the table. As for you, dear Galbatorix, do not presume that I am still a weak child who can be cowed by a simple display of your power. I have grown up and am far stronger than you give me credit for. All of the tomes in the library plus some that I have found elsewhere are dedicated to memory. I have connections with people who would love to see your head on a pike at their gate. And on top of that, you are simply angering me by treating me like I am useless because I am not going to let you tell me what to do. Is that not the reasons you killed the Council back before the Fall, because they would not grant you another egg and they treated you like you were not able to be respected or trusted? I am more like you than you think, father.

Clarissa blinked and glanced over at Rerukusu to show she was disappointed that he wouldn't do what she had done. Few would stand up to the tyrant king but someone who was nigh immortal shouldn't be afraid to express their feelings for someone. Still she understood what he had said and smirked slightly. Brenton Bromsson leads the elves as of right now and he is just as strong as Reru if not you, Galbatorix. He will be your biggest threat if you plan on attacking from behind and there are other elves who are sure to be riders. He has also trained several riders and the elves have a whole array of assassins that they command with loyalty.

[Emiryal ♕]

[sorry for posting out of order, but I wanted to get in one more post here before I leave for my trip.]

Murtagh watched Clarissa a moment as though deciding if responding was worth his breath. He was more than used to threats on his life, it was unfortunate but he never really felt safe anywhere. At any time he was always prepared to face danger. It didn't hurt him knowing she despised him, in fact it was expected. Anything different may have surprised him. The rivalry between him and Galbatorix's children had been there quite some time anyways. He did speak though, his voice seemed calm yet was taunt as though he was dealing with a deadly snake and knew the risk of it yet there was a deadly tone in his voice. "My Lady," he said formally though there was little respect in those words."I need no one to protect or defend me. I just don't make a habit of disobeying. Besides you are not the only one who seeks my life. But what you are said is treason." he accused having now stood up placing both hands palm down on the table and leaning onto it. What she had said wasn't a threat to him it was treason against the king. Threats he could take but treason was another matter.

Reru just starred at Clarissa a moment in disbelief. He knew how she felt on this, but to actually say it? "Clarissa! Are you stupid!" he asked incredulously. He didn't like Murtagh but the Champion was right. Clarissa's words were did sound treason mentioning connections that wanted Galbatorix dead. He was worried for Clarissa now, she wasn't strong enough to face Galbatorix's full wrath. She wasn't a rider, she had magic but that was nothing in comparison to the king's. She wouldn't stand a chance if he turned on her.

He shot her a cold look when she showed him disappointment. He certainly could stand up against Galbatorix like she was and he suspected he could now best his father in a fight if it came down to it. Ender's power was incredibly vast after all. But this wasn't the time! No he wasn't afraid to express what he thought, he was being tactful and waiting in the wake. He had his own plans and right now doing what Clarissa was doing was not part of that. He had to plan his time to act very carefully. Was Clarissa trying to force his hand? Was she trying to get Reru to defend her? He said nothing on her comment of Brenton, of course he would be the most major threat. But Clarissa's former words still hung heavy in the air. "What are you trying to do!" he hissed in an undertone to her and allowed a look of worry to show for a moment. He didn't care if the others overheard him. It was a vague enough inquiry.

[Aelodil]

[Doesn't matter. I was taking too long to post anyway. Though I probably will have a delay in my posts as I have finals this week.]

Galbatorix, of course, knew Reru had developed far beyond his expectations and that was something he was proud of. However, at the same time, he also knew that if it really came to it, there was no way Reru would stand a chance against him if he became serious. However that was not something he would like to do. To have to restrain his son in force.. he didn't like the idea. His son was the only person out there in the whole entire world who understood him and was like him. They both knew and felt the pain from having lost their dragons and they were both ready to kill and destroy anything that posed a threat to their dragons now. He noticed the motion from Murtagh and was grateful when he released the sword. Good, the man hadn't lost complete control over Clarissa's goading. The new small speech from Clarissa indeed sounded exactly like treason. However, she was still his daughter, he couldn't bring himself to kill her. Though he could punish her.

Enraged, Galbatorix stood up and with a quick phrase in the Ancient Language, cast a spell to make everyone in the room's memories go blank after hearing the word. The true name of the Ancient Language. He spoke the true name of the Ancient Language and walked up to her side. He covered her forehead with his palm then thrust inside her mind along with all the Eldunari at his disposal as well as Shruikan's mind. He wasn't going to break through, but rather, he wanted to keep jabbing at her mind to cause more and more pain. His mind united with the minds of the Eldunari and Shruikan's to form a huge battering ram and he rammed that battering ram into her mind. He continued this process over a long time and finally, after some time, he opened his eyes and walked back to his seat. He sent his mind out to Reru's, letting him be full aware of the power of all the minds at his disposal as to not try anything stupid and said to him, "For your sister's sake, you better calm her down. I've been holding back up 'til now and I'd hate to have to take drastic measures."

Finally, Galbatorix took a deep breath and composed himself. He was back to the normal him. All right, then. Time to get the council finally started it seems. "You let Reru and I worry about this Brenton figure. Clarissa, you under-estimate me. True, you have grown strong, however, I have not spent my years in this castle idling by. I've grown stronger than I ever was. If this Brenton figure truly will be at the fight from our side, then it will be splendid. We will simply defeat him in battle. If the Elves see him fall in battle then their moral will be demolished. They've already lost their queen, so if they were to lose their next king, then it would be a home run for us." He said, his voice back to the cool slither it always was.

Shruikan gave a little hiss. Whenever Galbatorix used his and the Eldunari's minds against someone else's, Shruikan always felt the remnants of the king's anger in his mind. It wasn't enjoyable. When the King decided to use the true name of the Ancient Language, Shruikan hissed even more. This wouldn't end well. If he got angry again then it would be bad for the girl. Also, this 'council' was turning into a family bickering. Shruikan sighed. Humans were fools indeed. He reached his mind out to his daughter, saying, "Well well. I guess today you'll be witnessing another family argument. Better make sure your Rider doesn't 'choose' a side against Galbatorix. If Galbatorix gets truly angry and decides on making the girl suffer, then it won't bode well for anyone else who seems to be with the girl either."

Galbatorix waited for complete silence and continued, "Clarissa. This is no time for you to begin bickering. This is not the place for you to begin a scene. We are not here to simply fight and bicker and nip at each other. We're here to decide on a strategy. And on that, I would like to hear your thoughts about the plan I just suggested. State whether you think there should be any arrangements to it and what-not. Also, Murtagh, if you wish to regain your position as General of the Empire's army, then you should begin by not tweaking around the oaths you made to capture Eragon. If you encounter Eragon and you let him go, then your punishment will be ten times as worse as last time. Do you understand? Do I make myself crystal clear for everyone?" His voice ringing out in the small and quiet room.

((Brenton, enough with the fights Clarissa keeps trying to make =.= It's supposed to be a council, fighting comes later))

[Brenton]

((Lol Clarissa isn't one to back down and neither is Galbatorix so there was bound to be issues there. Although I guess I can stop the constant jabs at Murtagh and Galbatorix now.))

The pain, oh was it unbearably strong and hard to resist, resonated through Clarissa's head as multiple minds slammed into hers but that was just the beginning. This was a punishment for the woman verbally attacking the Empire and its leading group in such a manner as to threaten them. With a grimace, Clarissa pulled together her thoughts and formed a barrier that would protect her most inner thoughts, the ones about how she knew more about Brenton then really any of the rest did. The barrier wouldn't stop the pain but that was released slightly by the ear piercing scream that ripped from her throat and past her lips as her hands clenched into fists.

That was the last straw there! Clarissa was tired of all of this crap being pulled by her father and so she didn't realize it when he anger burst forth into a wall of flames that flickered up as well as a jab of force straight at Galbatorix, meant to send him backward. Do NOT attack me like that again father! I simply spoke the truth in what most are too afraid to do. You seek for mindless servants and if you can't find them then you create them by breaking their mind. I am not weak like the rest of your wonderful Empire is.

As her mind stopped racing and the pain died down, so did the flames and soon Clarissa was able to see without black spots in her vision. I do not underestimate you, oh powerful King Galbatorix, just the opposite. I overestimate you and your powers. There was a time when I would have never doubted whether you could take out the elven king but now that I have studied him, it is different. He was raised in Ellesmera and trained by Oromis, the son of Brom who killed Morzan, was captured and trained in Uru'baen, succeeded in escaping tracking spells and your grasp of the Empire, rose to power in the elves, has multiple eldunari, uses dark magic, is nigh immortal, and there is more power that he channels. Added to that is the fact that he is friends with Emiryal Nyteshaed who also escaped the Empire. Do you really think that two of the riders who have evaded you cannot be victorious in their endeavors when we know not what all they can do? If so then you underestimate them!

Clarissa blinked a few times and then pointed to the map, right at the black line around Uru'baen. Dig a trench here that is too wide to cross with anything other than magic or a bridge, fill it with saplings sharpened to deadly spikes that are poisoned, hide the trench with magic. After that it will leave only those who can use magic quickly or fly for us within to deal with. I'm sure my troops can handle a few sorcerers and flying freaks.

[Emiryal ♕]

Murtagh wasn't surprised that Galbatorix reacted to Clarissa's statement and punished her. But hearing the true name of the ancient language surprised him. The king was using that against his daughter? It seemed a bit unnecessary, but he wasn't one to question it. He knew he was exempt from that spell, as his mind remained untouched allowing him to remember the word. As far as he knew only the king and himself knew the word. By lack of reaction to it he knew Reru nor Clarissa remembered the word.

Reru's hand clenched into fists in anger as Galbatorix began to punish Clarissa for her treason. On instinct he reached for his magic and gathered it. The magic was mostly that of Ender's, the guardian of his branch. While he wasn't wearing the elders crown he had it hidden on him allowing him to use the guardian's power. "RERU NO!" Avendel roared in his mind as Reru was about to release the power and strike at his father with full force in retaliation for harming Clarissa. Avendel didn't just speak she attacked his mind causing him to loose focus on his power and dissipating his attempt. "AVENDEL!" he yelled glaring at the dragon for a moment. She stared back at him meeting his gaze and Reru glanced away from her. She was right and he knew it, attacking his father would be a mistake. As much as he hated what had happened he couldn't fight back, not yet. The time would come but not today.

Avendel's thoughts helped clear his mind and his anger washed away leaving him able to think clearly again. As Clarissa released flames and a jab of force aimed for the king, Reru threw his hand up in a flourish and a wall of shimmering energy appeared between Clarissa and Galbatorix blocking the flames and jab of force. He maintained the spell and allowed enough energy to flow into it to counter Clarissa's attack.

When the king reached out to his mind, he instantly put barriers up to prevent anything beyond conversation from being heard and he felt Ender's mind with his as well as Avendel's protecting his thoughts. He was well aware of Galbatorix's power and the minds he commanded. For a moment he wondered if the king could over power him, but Ender's mind was the most powerful one he'd ever known. Either way he wasn't going to find out right now. "For your sister's sake, you better calm her down. I've been holding back up 'til now and I'd hate to have to take drastic measures." he heard the king say. "As would I," he said. He didn't want to resort to drastic measures either. The war wasn't between them but with the Varden and if they were divided they would loose.

Avendel watched the argument from where she was near her father. "Reru is protective of Clarissa, but he knows better than to anger Galbatorix, unless anger clouds his mind," she said to the large dragon. She was tense and worried about this escalating, but at least Reru had taken her interference and ceased his attempt to fight back before he'd started.

Murtagh looked angered slightly when Galbtorix spoke to him but a hint of fear seemed to fuel the anger more than anything. The time he'd let Eragon go the punishment had been unspeakable, and he wasn't keen to go through it again or in this case 10 times worse as the king promised. "Yes, your majesty," he said. "I will not let him or Saphira go. You've made my oaths quite impossible do anything but that." Thorn watched Murtagh in sympathy, knowing full well what the last punishment had been like for them both. They had known when they let them go they could only do it once. As much as they tried neither had found a way to get around or tweak the oaths since then.

Reru nodded at Clarissa's comment. "What about poison or traps in addition to the sharpened saplings. That should slow them down and even if they use magic to heal or disarm them it will take time and resources away from them. It could give us a bit more of an advantage," he said.

[Aelodil]

((Yeah, so, um, sorry for the quality))

Galbatorix wouldn't have minded the jab from Clarissa's mind nor the fire, his ward keeping him safe from her magic and his mind an iron hard concrete wall, though the intervention from Reru sparked a smile to his face. He was glad his son understood. Reru was smart enough to realize that fighting here wouldn't help anyone but the Varden, and that was something they can't afford. Galbatorix calmly took his seat once again. He listened to Clarissa as she yelled at him. Galbatorix didn't mind. After all, she was right; He had gone too far. He shouldn't have attacked her. He stood up, walked to her side, gave a little flourish and kissed her hand in a royal gesture. "You're absolutely right, Clarissa. I apologize for acting so rashly as to raise a finger against my beloved daughter. Would you forgive me?" He said, his voice as smooth as silk as he stood up again and loomed over the map and the area she had pointed out.

Galbatorix knew that trying to prove his daughter wouldn't work in any way other than if he were to give her direct and solid proof, so he let it go. His daughter inherited his mountain of pride and, just like he, wasn't ready to swallow it down anytime soon. Pursuing the problem any further would be pointless. He stroked his beard. Even the most incompetent of soldiers should be able to take care of the remnants of the Varden troops from Clarissa's side.

Galbatorix's thoughts were interrupted by Shruikan who reached out to him, saying, "Are you sure about this, Galbatorix? Are you absolutely sure you want to actually leave the castle and fight the Varden head on? It will be hectic and chaotic." Galbatorix confirmed it saying, "That's good. We need chaos. Chaos is the key element to mystery, and mystery is what shrouds the Empire. It is what we need." Shruikan gave a small rumbled then retreated back to his conversation with Avendel.

"He's a smart man, then. I sense energy within him that doesn't belong to any man walking the face of Alagaesia. It's sinister and strong, strong enough to stand against Galbatorix alone. Though, even then, if they were to fight they would just cause more pain to everyone in this city as well as each other and Clarissa. Good job, keeping his emotions under check. He truly is lucky to have you as his dragon." He said to Avendel, the hint of pride in his voice.

"Good plan, though I see one fault in it: Will we have enough time for the preparations? Our men are, sadly, very shortly limited in their abilities. I think the best they can do is possibly plant saplings for trees and insert poison gas into the saplings with magic, that way when the Varden forces come by, they will directly inhale the poison." He said, waiting for any comments.

In response to Murtagh's slightly angered response, Galbatorix simply gave him a cold glare and said, "You better not. And you've made it well clear that you've shaken my oaths before. You better not do it again; For your and Thorn's own good. After all, I would hate to wonder what lovely torture methods I'll use this time." His voice as cold as ice with a hint of steel to it. He made his message clear: Let Eragon go and suffer the consequences.

[Brenton]

Clarissa was taken aback by the way Rerukusu had blocked the attack but she understood her brother was only trying to preserve the peace in this meeting as much as possible. So instead of getting upset at him, the woman simply smiled and gave some thought to what Reru proposed about traps and poison. Maybe that would be best but there was one problem with all of this, the time it would take to prepare the pits and traps. Clarissa sighed and was getting ready to speak up about that when suddenly Galbatorix was standing next to her and apologizing.

The woman didn't know exactly what to think, honestly. First he was attacking her and punishing her for what she said and then the next second he was apologizing when she attacked back in retaliation. It made no sense what her father did sometimes. With a small nod of her head, Clarissa withdrew her hand and spoke softly but firmly. I accept your apology father, but maybe I shouldn't have been so harsh to you and your right hand, whoever that might be and whatever my opinion of that might be.

As Galbatorix remarked upon the unlikelihood of them being able to pull off a pit, Clarissa sighed and lowered her head slightly. The idea wasn't originally brought up in my head based upon timeframe and so I didn't think about how the Varden were too close for us to prepare a proper trench. However, Rerukusu and you, father, brought up great ideas. Maybe the saplings could be planted with poison in the bark of the tree so even when the Varden begin to cut them down it will still affect them through the sap that will hit the air. Actually that might seal the Varden's fate if they begin to cut the trees down. Traps could be planted on the outside of the saplings at irregular intervals with a whole array of fun stuff built in for when they were activated. After that, it would only increase the troops getting in by a little bit. Although I do believe the urgals and dwarves might pose a threat to that plan. Do any of you know how to take them out without any hitch in the plan?

[Emiryal ♕]

Murtagh's only response to Galbatorix was a cold scowl, it was a mask hiding all other emotions from view. He hated how Galbatorix controlled him like this, with threats and oaths. Breaking the oaths and finding ways around them was extremely hard as it was and usually not worth risking the punishment. Had he not been hiding his emotions fear would've been the most obvious emotion. Brushing aside the storm of fear and other emotions inside he focused on what was being said for defense plans. "Urgals and dwarves, are effected by poison gas like anyone else right? As the urgals and dwarves show up any spell casters or riders could teleport the gas right into their area. They wouldn't even need to cross the trenches before we hit them with it. In addition falling objects can do quite a bit of damage to a closely grouped army. We could gather boulders and some of the dragons could drop them onto the denser areas in the Varden's army. With any luck we can get a few urgals and dwarves that way. In the battle of the burning plans the dwarves rallied nearest their king, they would be likely to group up like that. I could try killing their king again, killing Hrothgar did quite the blow on them last time. Going after their leaders or commanders would cause them the most damage. Eragon won't be easy to take down, nor any of their riders but Nasuada, Orik and the other leaders although I'm sure will be well protected would be ideal targets if we can break them. Besides, regardless of how many spells protect them there is one spell that can shatter most protections. Hrothgar didn't stand a chance against it when I used it before. I'm sure Reru is capable of the spell, and obviously you are as well your majesty." Galbatorix had taught him the spell and he had no doubt the king could cast it. He'd never seen Reru cast it though, but he did seem to boast an extraordinary amount of power.

Reru glared at Murtagh as he spoke. It wasn't a bad idea at all, but he felt he had to live up to the responsibility his father had given him as Supreme Command of the army. He didn't like to be out shown, not when Clarissa and he had finally seen Murtagh loose his footing more or less as second in command. "What about separating their forces? Or surrounding them from behind. If we can break them apart they will be weaker and easier to pick off," he said. Then glanced at Murtagh feeling he had to keep going with something if he was going to compete. "What if we place oil and other flammable materials in strategic locations and disguise it. When the Varden are close any dragon can make a pass near it and ignight it. We could use that as a way to separate their forces or trap them so we can pick them off."

"Maybe, but I'm not sure I'm lucky to have him. He's not the same person I hatched for during the Fall of the Riders," Avendel said. "But yes he is extremely powerful, he commands the very energy of the Nether. I do fear one day he will do just that, unleash it and cause pain to everyone. He didn't used to be this way but at least for now he listens to me."

[Aelodil]

Um, sorry I haven't posted for the longest time - I just have no clue what direction to poke this council into right now. Shall we just conclude it here?

[Brenton]

((Clarissa still needs to get Vervada's egg and go with whatever Galby would do with that...other than that this is basically settled.))

[Emiryal ♕]

so are we going to keep going with this thread or start the war, or what?

[Brenton]

I'm cool with starting the war but I'm not sure the Varden council is complete yet. Haven't checked there for awhile.

[Emiryal ♕]

alright, well I haven't been following that one. but when that wraps up we should get this war going.