M an' M Riders, AND NO VACANCY!

[Marko Ramius]

Rider Name: Marko
Rider Gender: Male
Rider Age: 125
Rider Looks: http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/supcom/images/4/43/Me_Online!.jpg
Rider Strengths: Elemental attacks and fencing
Rider Bio: Born before the War of Independance, I was raised in Eoam and taken to the Varden at age fifteen. While I was twenty five our leader declared was on Galbatorix and attacked his lands. I helped fight in all of the battlefronts and was finally sent home after the assault on Dras Leona when a group of magicians ambushed my company by collapsing the city towers. I helped the cause by designing and building warships in Eoam and when Scharnhorst hatched for me a year after the end of the war I obviously attained the title of Dragon Rider. I trained under Eragon before he left and continue to protect the lands and train the new Riders.

Dragon Name: Scharnhorst
Dragon Gender: Male
Dragon Age: 99
Dragon Color: Purple
Dragon Looks: http://www.draconika.com/types/images/silver-dragon.jpg

[Megara]

Rider Name: Diane
Rider Gender: Female
Rider age: 120
Rider looks: Pale skin with freckles, and dark (almost black) brown wavy hair. Hazel eyes, but they're closer to green then brown. Usually wears old fashioned tunics, and breeches, and boots.
Rider strengths: Healing, and hand to hand combat
Rider Bio: I was born near the beginning of the War for Independence. My father had been sent away before he knew my mother was pregnant. I later found out he died. My mother also died, giving birth to me. I was raised by a witch named Angela, in the Varden. She raised me until I was old enough to work in camp as a healer. I didn't find my true potential, as a fighter, when Karu hatched for me. I only got to train briefly under Eragon before he left. My training is still not complete.

Dragon Name: Karu
Dragon Gender: Male
Dragon Age: 101
Dragon Color: Dark green

[Marko Ramius]

*In the lands of Alagasia, I stand before the tomb of the last fighter, the last true warrior of the Old Orders. In front of a perfectly preserved Brom, I think of the past and future, and of who else is ready for protecting the world...*

[Megara]

I sigh. "Karu, where are we going again?" I ask him through our connection. He growls barely. "Be patient Diane. We must visit the tomb of Brom, for it is the day of his death."

Finally we arrive. There is one other standing there. I recognize Marko, though I only trained with him briefly. "Marko?" I ask tentatively.

[Marko Ramius]

*I don't divert my gaze, sensing them coming but smile and say*

You came, I woundered if you would. How has your time with the elves been?

*I look to Scharnhorst, who is on the other side of the tomb.*

[Megara]

I sigh. "Alright. Sure, I learned a ton of new hand to hand and sword and magic techniques, but its just so.. tranquil there! I can't stand it. I wanna go out, and do something!"

[Marko Ramius]

*I smile, thinking of my own time of the elves, who finished the finer parts of my training after Eragon left and Brom (Eragon's son) was off with the diplomats.*

They can be... very withdrawn. I don't mind it, but yes, after awhile I lust for the company of men again.

*I turn to see Diane a few feet behind me. I smile and reply*

You want action? There are politicians to calm, rogue urgals to slay, and theives to bring to justice. You like action, don't you?

*Scharnhorst walks up to Karu, and sniffs his head*

(How have you been little one? It has been too long since I last saw you.)

[Megara]

I know Karu and Scharnhorst are talking, but I don't bother to listen in. (I am well, Scharn. How is Marko?)

I sigh. "Anything sounds good now. What do you want to do?"

[Marko Ramius]

(Marko has been good, but the loss of Elizabeth still haunts him, he needs to move on or he shall forever be trapped in denial.)

*I fold my arms and think, putting my chin in my chest. I then say*

I need to consult with Brom, my brother in arms. He knows more of what is going on than anyone in Alagasia... and there is something going on. I have a guess, but it is... a scary thought.

[Megara]

(Elizabeth? Who is she?)

I don't pay attention to Karu's conversation, though I still hear glimpses. "Alright." I say. "Lets go. If something is happening, I wanna do something about it."

[Marko Ramius]

(Elizabeth was his... first and last lover. She was an elf, he met her in Ellesmerella. She... was with him for three years, and he loved and protected her for many years. She was the star of his sky, but it couldn't last. She soon met another elf, and... It's hard to talk about, I'm hiding my thoughts from him because it urts him to think about it, and he wishes me not to tell everyone)

*I pay my final respects to the body of Brom, the mentor of my mentor. I then walk briskly to Scharnhorst and leap up. We take off, along with Daine and Karu, towards Aberon, the capitol of Alagasia...*

And so we shall Daine. How have you been this past century? I have seen little of you...

[Megara]

(That's too bad. You're right, though. That kind of think shouldn't be publicly known.)

I hope on to Karu, and fly beside Marko. "So, how are you, though?" I ask. "You know how I've been."

[Marko Ramius]

I have been in good health, and life goes good. I only lack, certain aspects of a Master of Life... I strive for perfection and sometimes look at myself and look at what I need to change. Last time I passed.

*I chuckle at myself, but suddenly remember her in my thoughts. I try to push it away, but am only partialy sucessful...*

I saw Nassuda the other year, right before she entered the void.

[Megara]

I shake my head. "I wish I could have met her. Do you know who is succeeding her?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I shake my head*

No, I left for the Dwarves to help Orik with some clan trouble after that and have been busy with that and the leves since then.

*As the sin begins to set Scharnhorst lands in a secluded clearing in the woods and curls up...*

[Megara]

Karu lands next to Scharn, and I jump off it. I grab my pack, and look up at the sky. "No rain.." I comment. "We shouldn't need a tent." I unroll my sleeping mat, and start gathering wood for a fire.

[Marko Ramius]

*I get a pot out of Scharnhorst's packs, and a large pile of GOOD vegies, and begin chopping them up for a stew. Once they are diced I put them in a pot and summon pure water from the ground. I then put the pot near the fire pit and get my mat out, putting it adjacent to the fire and Daine...*

[Megara]

I come back with kindling, and after setting them up under the pot, mutter "Brisingr." The fire starts, and the water starts to come to a boil. I lay down on my mat, and look up at the stars while waiting.

[Marko Ramius]

*I toss the vegies in the pot on the fire and toss some spices in to make it better*

So... tell me more about yourself, I have never learned much about you, I've always been so busy with the rest of the world...

*I sit down on my bag, about four feet from Daine, and wait for the stew to cook*

[Megara]

I nod. "Well, you know my family died, right? Angela, that crazy witch lady raised me. She's like my mom. I grew up in the Varden as a healer, and didn't know what do with my life until Karu hatched for me. What about you?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I cough, the air suddenly seeming thick, or maybe it's just my throat*

I grew up in the Southern Islands, my family was powerful there. Those lands were untouched by Galboratrix, but in the end I sailed to Surda to fight with the Varden. After we fought and Eragon fought Galboratrix, we opened the maniac's vault, and found several remaining eggs there. I walked in for the first time with Eragon, my party was storming the castle, and when I accidently touched the egg, it hatched. I believe your egg came from the same vault... Since then I have been training and teaching under Eragon and Brom, though Eragon is gone, and Brom, my brother almost, is always at the negotiation tables of men.

*I get the stew off the fire and split it, giving half to Diane...*

[Megara]

"Thanks." I say grateful for the warm stew. "Whats Brom like? I never really got to know him, though I've met him once or twice."

[Marko Ramius]

*I smile, thinking of my good friend*

He's like a brother to me. He is much like his father, but a little harder on the inside. He's younger than me, by about twenty years. Brom has many... almost all the good qualities a person can have, but he can't stand being insulted.

*I look over to Daine, getting a good look of her for the first time in awhile. I notice how pretty she is, not thinking of what might be happening inside of me...*

[Megara]

I smile. "He sounds decent.. I'm not really used to sane people. Angela, although she was great, wasn't sane. At all. And most stayed away from me, because they were scared of her. I honestly can't blame them." I notice how Marko's eyes seem to glow in the firelight.

(What color hair and eyes does Marko have?)

[Marko Ramius]

(Same as me, brown hair and eyes. Slight tan, not DARK though, just enough to not be albino. Look at my profile pic...)

Angela is weird, by all extents. What is she up to these days? Has she gone back to studying the quagmires of life, or still babysitting the leaders of Alagasia?

*I think back to her, and the one time Eragon took me to her mentor, Tenga, Daine's grand-mentor...*

[Megara]

I chuckle. "Probably doing her best to get someone decent as the Varden leader. I wonder who she's supporting. Who do you think should be the leader?"

[Marko Ramius]

*After finishing my stew, I tilt my head on my shoulder and think for a sec...*

Well... Nasuda's grandchild is pretty smart, but spoiled beyond belief, not reservant like her. Orin's great-grand-kid is younger, and not as spoiled, but has it in for every girl his age he sees, poor hormonal bugger.

*I shake my head and roll over onto my side, with an arm propping up my head, facing Daine, only feet from me...*

[Megara]

I laugh again. "Both sound horrendous! What about Brom? He sounds good for the job?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I look over, with a very serious look on my face*

No, he and I both agree that a Rider should not be in charge of the country. The last one drove the country to civil war, heard of Galboratrix? He was a Rider, and that did not end well.

*I smile again*

Besides Brom, any other good choice you can think of?

[Megara]

I sigh. "Everyone's heard of Ol' Gal face. Now as for the new leader..." Suddenly, the water in my cup changes to Angela's face. She looks pale yet flushed at the same time. There is a wild craze in her eyes.
"Hey, Angela." I say, holding a hand up to tell Marko to be quiet. "Whats up?"
Angela laughs almost hysterically. "we won our fight. The new leader of the Varden is Phalion." I giggle.
"No way, Phalion?!? Like our Phalion, son of Roran and Katrina, Phalion? The one who totally failed in the magic lesson? This is great!"
I see Marko has a questioning look.
"You've hear of Phalion, right? The son of Roran and Katrina? He's the new leader of the Varden."

[Marko Ramius]

*I grin*

Him? Isn't he kinda old now? It's been one hundred years since Galboratrix died... (Sorry I didn't tell you, he he he....)

*I yawn and lay my head down, look at the beautiful face in front of me all the while.*

Tell me about Phalion, now that I think about it he's only about fifty now... (I'll rewind a few years...) He is a good man, doesn't have the gift though, the gift of magic... how do you know him?

[Megara]

I smile. "We trained together. He just aged a bit faster, as a human. He was actually my best friend growing up. Bloody brilliant with any weapon, and anything to do with war, but has no paitence for magic or formal occaisions."

[Marko Ramius]

He he he, sounds like me at a younger age, and part of me now. Being a Rider has changed me so, that I have to live through occasions like that when they are needed, and Magic saves us half the time nowadays...

*I lay down looking at the stars*

So...

[Megara]

"Yeah." I say. "Speaking of formal occasions, you hear about Phalion's sister's birthday party coming up? As its pretty peaceful, she's going to have a ball of sorts in Orrin's grandson's castle. I'm required to attend. Joy.."

[Marko Ramius]

Ohh... Formal occasions aren't too bad, you just need someone to watch your back...

*I look over to Daine*

So, are you going, knowing you hate formal occasions...

[Megara]

I laugh. "Like, I said, forced to go. As I was friends with Phalion, I got to know Thalia quite well. She's a bit frilly for tastes, but nice. What about you?"

[Marko Ramius]

I wasn't invited, but I haven't been in touch with my human friends as much as I would like... been with the Dwarves and on Doru Areba with Brom too much.This is the first time in years that I've been free of worry and can roam for awhile. You?

[Megara]

"I was with the elves for awhile. Anyway, I'll need sane company there, so I invite you, and you have to come. Come on, the food'll be decent."

[Marko Ramius]

*I grin and pretend to think about it for a second, then say*

I glady accept your invitation. And, the good food is a plus. So, what else is going to be there? Dancing?

[Megara]

I smirk. "I can't dance. I shall say hi to Thalia, and hide behind a curtain. You can dance if you want."

[Marko Ramius]

*I smirk this time*

You're no fun at all, I'm beginning to think you don't like me!

*I cross my arms and pretend to pout*

[Megara]

"Oh, you just figured that out?" I say in a deadpan tone with a straight face.

[Marko Ramius]

*I freeze for a sec, trying to think of something to say, but can't! I finally just say*

Uhhhh... Yeah?

[Megara]

I can't help it. I start cracking up. "You know nothing about sarcasm, do you?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I pretend to cry, kinda convincing too*

I so confused!

*I bend over with my head in my hands...*

[Megara]

I take out my sword, Chrysanthemum Cleaver, guard its edges, and smack on the head with the flat side. "Stop your crocodile tears!" I command.

[Marko Ramius]

*I look over with my neck cords pulled tight, not expecting the loud noise, and the reaction she gave...*

Jeeze, no need to flip out. Where were we?

[Megara]

I pretend to think about it. "Well, I told you my grand plan for the party, and you said I was no fun. So what are you planning to do, then? I already call dibs on the biggest curtain.

[Marko Ramius]

*I think about it too...*

Darn, I wanted the biggest curtain, can I join you behind it?

[Megara]

I smirk. "I doubt it'll match with your outfit. When you pick out one, tell me what color it is, and I can find you a matching curtain. You don't know how many occasions I've avoided that way."

[Marko Ramius]

*I raise my chin and say in a lofty voice*

Or we could just brave it for a day and just dance?

[Megara]

I laugh. "Tell you what. If you can find any girl there that'll dance with you, then I'll come out from my curtain."

[Marko Ramius]

Grrr...

*I mumble something, but can't find the gumption to say it out loud.*

What if.... hmph, never mind...

[Megara]

I laugh. "Alright. We should get to sleep, and then tomorrow, we'll have to start flying to Surda. The party is the day after tomorrow." I douse the fire, and pull my blanket around me.

[Marko Ramius]

*I just sit there for a minute, watching her and listening to the surroundings, thinking of the future, and my situations...*

Night...

*I finally roll over and fall into... a... deep... sleep...*

[Megara]

*The Next Morning*

I wake up, and am upset to find the sun has risen. Marko is still not up. I sigh, and roll up my mat, and pack up my stuff onto Karu. When I notice Marko is still not up, I whack him on the head with Chrysanthemum Cleaver's still guarded flat side.

[Marko Ramius]

*Never having been a morning person, I know immediately that Scharnhorst wanted to see Daine flip on me, for he usually wakes me before somethign happens. I shake my head and groan*

Five more minutes...

*I roll over and begin to snore, trying my hardest not to laugh out...*

[Megara]

"Thats it.." I think. I mentally ask Karu to do something for me. He gets up, and lets a big drop of dragon drool fall right on Marko's face. I try to stifle my giggles.

[Marko Ramius]

*I wipe my face and leap up in disgust of the steaming hot and gooey substance. I'm hopping around, trying to get it to get off in any way possible...*

Good... spth... God! That's it!

*I leap forward and tackle Daine into the ground, wiping my face off with her hair and then giving her a noogie. I stand up, grab my stuff in a pile, and then throw it into one of the big pockets on Scharnhorst's back, and leap up onto my saddle. I look to the other dragon, and not seeing Daine, look around and see her on the ground, getting up. I look at her with incredulity and say...*

Hey, Daine. Why aren't you ready to go?

[Megara]

I put on my best angry face. "You. Wrecked. Up. My. Hair."

[Marko Ramius]

*I do a Tim Allen laugh, the one where he tilts his head forward and back really fast*

Hair shmair, get over it! Your dragon wrecked my shirt, face, hair, and helmet!

*We lift off and head toward Surda*

(Night)

[Megara]

(Good morning)

I laugh, and do a quick spell to clean it. Honestly, I don't really care, but its fun to see his reaction to things like that.

While on Karu, there wasn't really much to do. I was absolutely bored.

[Marko Ramius]

*Scharnhorst sees her boredom, and wants to play, but also wants to get to Surda badly, so he doesn't play...*

So Daine, what is the limits of your magical knowlege? How far did Angela and the Elves take you into your instructions?

[Megara]

I think for a moment. "Um... I'm alright with most spells, though I excel in healing spells."

[Marko Ramius]

Hmmm...

*I nod*

That's good, though we may need to practice sometime... Every Rider should be attuned to every aspect possible...

*I see the first Surdan village pass by, and start to think we're getting close...*

[Megara]

I smile as we fly over the village. "You're right.. maybe tomorrow, before the doomedness begins."

[Marko Ramius]

*I nod and think of what would be good to teach, but my mind is kinda blank. I just shrug and look around, to the almost non-existant view of the desert...*

[Megara]

Later that day, as the sun starts to set, we finally land in Aberon. The area surrounding the castle is filled with tents, and make shift pavillions. I grin, and land Karu.

[Marko Ramius]

*I look around, stunned by the amount of people*

What is this? A wedding for sextuplets? Good God!

*Scharnhorst lands next to Karu*


(You took a bullet for me? I'm moved beyond words...)

[Megara]

(No, I didn't. De said I didn't. Latika just watched as he fired at the tree. XD.)

I shake my head. "Thalia is very popular. A ton of people will be there tomorrow night, unfortunately. Now if you'll excuse me, I must go find Angela. Good night!" I walk off, looking for her familiar black tent.

[Marko Ramius]

(It's the thought that counts)

*I shrug, woundering if Brom is here. I look, but don't see the big white dragon Bid'Daum. Scharnhorst and I finally just glide out into the counrtyside and find an empty feild to sleep. I end up just lying there for an hour, just staring up at the stars, and thinking about recent events...*

*I wake up as the sun rises, a first in my book... and we set off to the castle, and to Lady Thalia and her endless guests...*

[Megara]

(The party doesn't start until sundown.)

I wake up, the sun filtering through the fawn brown fabric of my tent. Yawning, I walk outside, and find Angela stirring something in her cauldron, which is set up outside of her tent. "Hey Angela." I say. "What that?" She looks at me with her wry smile, and fills me a mug. "Tea." I smirk, and drink it gratefully, before getting out Chrysanthemum Cleaver to run through some sword exercises.

[Marko Ramius]

*I walk through the tents alone, head low, trying not to attract the attention every Rider "deserves". I finally find Angela's tent, sticking out like a sore thumb. I walk in and say*

Hello Angela, it has been a few years, hasn't it.

[Megara]

Angela grunted. "Hello Marko. Would you like some tea? Don't worry, no frogs in it. No toads for that matter, either. " I hear from the outside as I finish warming up. I sheaf my sword, and walk inside her tent. "Hey Marko. Take the tea, its good. Angela, may I have another mug?" She says yes, and I refill mine, and fill one for Marko, then hand it to him.

[Marko Ramius]

*I grin, and watch Daine slurp it first before drinking it. It was pretty good tea ater all.*

So, Angela, anything important going to happen today, besides the wedding? You always have a knack for being where the action is...

[Megara]

I smirk, and Angela does as well. "Well.." she drawls. "Firstly, its a birthday party, not a wedding. And Eoam will move a centimeter closer to Surda today than it was yesterday."

[Marko Ramius]

*I nearly choke on my tea at the last one, so unexpected the comment was*

Wow! I never knew that... And I am almost entirely intriuged because it's my hometown...

*I clean the tea off my outfit before it stains and starts chuckling uncontrollably again*

[Megara]

I can't help it. Angela said that laughter is actually contagious anyways. I guess she's right, because I start laughing along with Marko. Then she says something unexpected. "Marko, would you like me to throw the dragon bones for you?"

(You need to make up your own fortune thing, because you know where you want your character to do, and go.)

[Marko Ramius]

*Stunned, I say slowly*

Really? I... I would like that, thank you!

(Long life, and stays in Alagasia... but I shall let you make up the rest... Good luck. You're in control now, he he he)

[Megara]

(Alright)

I leave the tent, because it is his private thing.
---------------------------
Angela takes out her dragon bones, mutters over them, and then throws them on the table. She looks at them for a few minutes then declares. "You, Marko, will have an interesting life. You'll live a long time, and stay in Alagaesia, but will encounter many hardships. However, joy will also come your way. You'll find love with the green girl, but beware: a big problem rises soon. Now out!"

[Marko Ramius]

*I tilt my head to the side, thinking and memorizing the important piece of information, and then quickly get out, listening to her command*

Well, that was helpful.

*I see Daine standing a few feet aside, trying not to listen*

You wana know what it was?

*I chuckle, thinking of a witty response, for the witty apprentice, of the even wittier witch...*

[Megara]

I smirk. "Know what? That you'll grow up to be a shepard in Palancar Valley, and have 3 little tykes?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I just kinda stand there akward like, trying to rember my response, since Daine's was pretty good*

Well... actually no. I'm going to be the first person to reach the sun, and the first person to die doing it too. I'm also going to find love, but she thinks i'm going to die for that too. In fact, she thought I was going to die after everything she said. She thinks i'm doomed I think...

[Megara]

I just laugh. "Well, anyone could figure out that much."

[Marko Ramius]

*I nod and take a deep breath, thinking about the information that set my life in near perfect clarity.*

Now what? You wana get some breakfast?

[Megara]

I shake my head. "I'm not really hungry. I think I'm going to go wash at the bathhouse in the castle. Later." I walk back inside my tent, grab a change of clothes, and head up to the bath house.

[Marko Ramius]

*I see her walk off... and REALLY want to join her... follow her and join her in that amazing bath... but I have to be more dignified than that.*

Scharnhorst, what the hell is going on in my head?

(Simple little one, you're falling in love again. You feel pain in your chest, that's actually love. Youve been so lonely that you've forgotten ho it feels, the adrenaline flowing around your ribcage like a flock of sparrows...)

[Megara]

I walk into the bath room, and take the longest, hottest shower I've had in awhile. Thankfully, the room is devoid of others, so I don't have to listen to chatter. After I get dressed, I decide to head to the castle library.

*Karu?* I think. *I'm going to the library, you can go hunting if you want.*
*Alright.* He replies, and takes off.

[Marko Ramius]

*I walk through the tents, hoping to see a familiar face of any kind, but don't succeed. That's how long I've been a Rider evidently. I meander my way to the dining hall, where I get a plate and a mountain of sausage and pancakes...*

NOM NOM NOM!!!

[Megara]

I sit in the library, and peruse various books on everything from plants in Surda to Dwarvish folk tales.

[Marko Ramius]

*Continue munching*

[Megara]

Finally, its about an hour before the ball, so I head back to my tent to put on whatever dress Thalia picked out for me, as I have no sense of style. Inside it, I find a dark purple gown with cap sleeves, and then creamy white longer sleeves under that. The gown also has gold embroidery. I sigh, and slip it on, as it isn't totally awful. Then I pull my hair up into a halfway respectable loose bun, and pot the enchanted singing flower I picked up for Thalia.

[Marko Ramius]

*I jog back to Scharnhorst, napping at the clearing out of town, and clean up and get dressed for the Ball! I don't know whether to be exited or scarred ****less at this point. There was the prophecy, but then again... I end up putting on my normal dress outfit, a black jacket (a colonial tux) and pants (dresspants, don't worry). I put on a yellow undershirt and just keep my boots on, not having any other shoes...*

Scharnhorst...

(Little one, don't say another word, you're going to that Ball and you're dancing with Daine! Now go!)

*I grumble and start towards the castle again, careful not to sweat...*

[Megara]

*Karu..* I think. *What are you going to be doing? How was your hunt?* *Fine, young one.* he thinks back. *I shall hang out with Scharn. Now go, have fun.*
I say goodbye, and scurry up to the castle. Inside, I'm awed by the amount of people. After giving Thalia my present, and blessing, and I quickly locate the purple curtain, and hide behind it, trying not to be noticed.

[Marko Ramius]

*I walk into the ballroom, and nearly fall head over heels. I had never seen so many people even on the battlefeild in the Burning plains! I start looking for Daine, but not surprisingly the crowd must have eaten her like a fish in the ocean. Then I remember what she said about curtains... but there had to be two hundred... so I sigh and start a circiut around the ballroom, hoping to run into her...*

[Megara]

I start humming to myself quietly, a way to pass the time. I also brought a book, which I'll probably read later.

[Marko Ramius]

*I continue around... blue curtain... nobody... red curtain... nobody... black curtain that should be mine... nobody... gold curtain.... not going to say what I saw... purple curtain...*

[Megara]

I jump as Marko peers around my curtain. "Darn!" I exclaim. "Why aren't you behind the black one? This will draw attention to me!"

[Marko Ramius]

*I stop there, stunned. She was... in the colors of my Family? Royal Purple, Rich Gold, and... well the white was opposite as the black of the Night, but still. She stood there, and my eyes were consuming a feast of beauty, and the face. Her face, slim and regal, shy and determined... so beautiful*

Why on earth would you want no attention to yourself?

[Megara]

I shake my head. "Did you listen to anything I said the night before last? I abhor balls. The only reason I'm is here is so I don't offend Thalia."

[Marko Ramius]

*I still stand there, stunned. Finally I decide to move, trying the unthinkable. I slowly set my hand in front of me, palm up, and say*

Please, don't waste the night and dance with me. Please?

[Megara]

I'm shocked for sec, then remember my earlier comment. "If you can get one girl to dance with you, I'll come out from behind my curtain." I smile, and accept his arm. "Fine, but only because you asked." I say, laughing inside.

[Marko Ramius]

*As the music slows to a good pace I lead her out, just to the side of the throng to have space, and begin to sway back and forth in an endless circle...*

Now, is this so bad? Everyone is dancing... why shouldn't you? You would gain more attention not dancing instead of just following the general mood...

[Megara]

I let out a small smile. "Maybe you're right, wise guy. This isn't that awful. Unlike having dragon slobber in your hair.."

[Marko Ramius]

*I chuckle*

Sorry about that...

[Megara]

I smile outright. "It's ok. Karu doesn't smell that bad, unlike Scharn."

[Marko Ramius]

*I give Daine a quick look, but just let the comment go*

So, what after this? Any plans?

[Megara]

I think for a moment. "Lets talk to Brom, I want to meet him. We can find out whats going on."

[Marko Ramius]

*I nod, and happy that she understood my question. Usually people take that too rhitorically and respond about the next ten minutes...*

That's not a bad plan. I haven't seen him in awhile either. I need to catch up to the times...

[Megara]

I smile. "It's always good to reunite with old friends. Speaking of which, you wanna find Phalion and congratulate him? I'm sure he's here somewhere.."

[Marko Ramius]

Oh, he's probably in the center of the room. Let's not be so hasty. We may meet him on the way out, when everyone else is tired... You move too fast. Enjoy the moment!

*I continue to dance, placing a small kiss on Daine's cheek...*

[Megara]

I feel my face turn red, and I give a small smile. "Fast is good. Lets go see Phalion." I suddenly feel hot and flushed. "Excuse me." I break away, and dash for the balcony.

[Marko Ramius]

*I let out a tense breath, woundering if I acted too forward... I slowly walk toward the balcony, not wanting to trap her. I rub my neck and say*

Yeah... sorry about that...

[Megara]

"It's alright." I say. "I was just a bit.. warm."

[Marko Ramius]

*I lay back on the balcony, and say*

Warm it was, do you want to go see Phalion, or do you wish to continue to... cool off?

[Megara]

I smile. "Lets go see Phalion. I've missed him." I head back into the ball room, looking for the familiar dark blonde and grey haired tall figure.

[Marko Ramius]

*I follow her, not knowing how the new leader of Surda looks...*

[Megara]

(Not Surda, but the Varden, I think.)

I finally see Phalion, conversing with his sister.
"Hey, Thalia, having a good time?" I ask. She smiles and says "Yes, but where have you been all night. I just saw you dancing recently." I blush, not wanting to reveal my secret. "Um...." Then I change the subject. "Congratulations Phalion. I heard about your new position from Angela. By the way, this is my friend and fellow rider, Marko."

[Marko Ramius]

*I bow to the new leader, showing my respect, but not fealty. I'm not falling for that one again. Eragon told us of his lesson before he left...*

Good sir, it is nice to meet you finally! I hope you are inheriting a healthy system...

[Megara]

Phalion smiles warmly. "Everything seems to be running smoothly, but no need for that formality Marko. Of course, there is that one thing I presume you all know about?"
I raise my eyebrow. "No, what?" Phalion shook his head in disbelief. "You mean you haven't heard about Grunwald? He's a shade, he tried to start a rebellion in Dras Leona. Almost suceeded, too. We think he was a sorcerer that Galbatorix's spirit somehow managed to posess, and now he's trying to come back through him."

[Marko Ramius]

*I freeze, not believing the words I'm hearing. I think through it again and finally say*

I've been in the Beors for awhile, but how have I not heard of THAT? It's technically impossible, unless... a magician dabbling in sorcery? Good God! That's bad! I assume Brom knows, has he done anything?!?!

[Megara]

"Brom knows. He's been very active, doing as much as he can, but he can't leave the Varden. We need him too much here, and he's great on the Council. Would you two.." Phalion said. But before he finished the sentence, I jumped in. "Yes, yes, and yes!" I said. "Thank you! Where was he spotted last?"
"In Teirm." Phalion replies.

[Marko Ramius]

*I sigh, just as things calm down something new has to come up, and this looked to be something bigger than anything we have had to face since Galboratrix. I say my partings to the good lord and say to Daine*

Listen, we shall relax the rest of the night and get a good night's rest. Then tomorrow morning we need to get provisions and more information on this charichter... I don't like this one bit. Brom would have ridden out by now if it was just a Shade... After we prepare tomorrow we shall leave for Uru'Baen, where Brom is trapped by the damned politicians... Okay with you?

[Megara]

I smile. "Sounds good! I just wanna get out. I haven't been in a real good fight in ages!" I bid good night to Phalion, and Thalia, and start to head back to my tent.

[Marko Ramius]

*I head out with Daine, still not able to keep my eyes off of her, the dress only made her look even more intoxicating... I'm like really struggling now to keep from hitting too hard on her now... REALLY HARD TO KEEP CONTROL, GOTTA KEEP COOL!!!*

So, was that dance so ard to bare? It's not like you stick out like a sore thumb! From being with Angela for a number of years I would think you would know to just be yourself, even if that meant in public also!

[Megara]

I smirk. "Yeah, but I'm not Angela. Did you know she named my sword?"

[Marko Ramius]

(Yes I did and I got the reference... Wow. Impressive, I would have never have thought of that.)

*I look over, then to the sword at her hip... (What type of sword is it anyways?)*

No I didn't, what's it's name?

[Megara]

(I did like that name, its way cooler than Sheep Biter. And its dark green, slim blade, about a hand and a half long. Good for cutting and thrusting, but a bit better for thrusting. AND JOIN MY NEW RPG, Camp!)

I smirk. "Do you really wanna know? It's Chrysanthemum Cleaver. What about yours?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I grin, thinking of all the trouble i had to go through to get it*

It's Tirpitz. (It's a rapier). I got it from Galboratrix's treasury, he had a whole stash of them in Uru'Baen. Now Brom and I have the remaining locked away, but you know that... That's how you got yours, right? Rhuhon can't do it anymore... she's refused to make new ones, even after Brisingr...

[Megara]

I smile. "Angela made it. I swear, I think there's nothing she can't do. I personally would never use anything from Galbatorix's treasury, because who knows who he's killed with them!"

[Marko Ramius]

He never used them, they were just trophies to him. He had a sword of his own...

[Megara]

I shake my head. "I know, but still.. it just feels wrong to me, using a sword thats been used to kill by someone else. I'm just weird like that though, I guess." I finish, laughing.

[Marko Ramius]

*Marko shrugs*

Whatever. So, you're staying with Angela?

[Megara]

"Sorta." I reply. "As you saw, my tent is right next to hers. I still have so much to learn from her. By the way, what did she say in the Prophecy- fortune thing?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I smile at this one*

I told you already, I'm doomed! He he he...

*I rub my neck, already thinking of what I should say next...

[Megara]

I smirk. "No, they have more depth than that. Come on, pretty please?" I start using the puppy dog pout.

[Marko Ramius]

*That face shall be the death of me, I swear. I sigh and say*

Do you like riddles?

[Megara]

I grin mischievously. "Very much so."

[Marko Ramius]

*Giddy with premonition, I nod and say*

That's good. Figure this one out. To tell you my future would, could, change mine.

[Megara]

I smirk. "There's not an answer, that just proves you're a worrywort. Now please tell." I go into extreme puppy dog pout mode.

[Marko Ramius]

*The damned face. Ugh, no reason to worry, just the fact that I might loose my chances if I tell, but then again it's a prophecy, so she might just go along with it... unless she thought i was lying... and just trying to make her mine... OOH THE PAIN IN MY BRAIN!!! I finally just say it in the ancient language*

Alright fine. Angela told me that you and I shall fall in love. How far that shall go is your choice. I also am doomed. Ironically I wasn't lying about that part, I have many hardships coming up and big problems to deal with. But I now assume that the real big one she predicted was that darned Shade.

*I switch back to english and do a theatrical shrug*

Happy?

[Megara]

I grin wickedly. "Well... I suppose because you and I shall fall in love, we're doomed. Because man, I'm heck in the mornings. And you'll be following me like an adlepated puppy, just like you did with Elizabeth.. don't give that look, of course I knew about her. Anyways, you'll follow me wherever I go, and when I finally throw myself off a bridge in a fit of madness, you will follow me toy our death."

[Marko Ramius]

*Resist shaking my head, REALLY CREEPY CHICK! I begin to panik, but then switch back to the normal me and figure she's trying to test me... Girls are about the only type of person I don't get, God help me! (not literally, I'm atheist). I then think of what she said, Elizabeth. How? But she was right, and wrong. Some scars never heal, and some leave marks. I knew it would never be like that again, I was so innocent, but then again...*

How do you know of... her?

[Megara]

I smile sadly. "She was my best friend.. we talked about you for hours on end when we hung out."

[Marko Ramius]

Impossible, that was years... decades.... ago! And she was with me and Scharnhorst! How could you two have possibly been talking? We were moving faster than the wind, and you know of her?

*I sit on the ground, suddenly overwhelmed by the memories...*

[Megara]

I smiled ruefully. "We kept a correspondence. Where do you think all those letters went. I just like to think of it as talking. Scrying wouldn't work, because its easier to track."

[Marko Ramius]

*Shaken up more than anything in the last year or so, I get up and think, nodding my head solemnly the entire time*

So, what else did she tell you?

[Megara]

I smile. "That you're a hopeless romantic, and when you were a little boy you dreamed of being just like Eragon. But don't worry, I hero-worshipped Arya."

[Marko Ramius]

*I look to the sunset, thinking and saying now, in unsion*

That was a long time ago, I'm older, and know I could never be as strong as he had to be... And his fate. I could never survive something like that.

*I then raise an eyebrow and look over*

A hopeless romanticist? Did she think I was that bad?

*Another flood of memories overtake me and my eyes start to film with tears, the first since... she left. I keep them in but I suspect my eyes turned red*

She must have. Thanks, just when I think I move on something hits me... I have to... go now. Sorry my lady.

*I walk back towards the country roads, where Scharnhorst awaited...*

[Megara]

I salute. "So long Marky-boy! Parting is such sweet sorrow." I turn and walk into my tent, collapsing on my bed after changing out of the evil dress.

[Marko Ramius]

*I get back and lay down on my bag. I just stare at the stars, clearing my mind, until sleep took me...*

(Next morning)

*Still in my clothes from last night, I undress, clean myself in the close stream, and then get back into my armor and normal outfit...*

Scharnhorst, my life has to be one of the worst puzzles since the birth of Angela... Why can't everything be straightforward like it should be?

(He merely shrugged and took off. We went to the courtyard to get provisions...*

[Megara]

I wake up as the sun rises. Before packing, I get into training clothes, and head to the training field, looking for a duel. To my delight, Phalion is there. We start an intense mock duel. I didn't know he was so good, we keep going.

[Marko Ramius]

*I finish getting foods, and wait at the gate looking for Daine, I finally hear a commontion in the training arena and take a closer look, suspecting from a hint that Scharnhorst gave me that she was wasting time...*

*I just stood there for a minute or two before realizing that Phalion was trying his best, and she was leading him toward the wall. I kinda stood there with my mouth open...*

[Megara]

I felt the sun already beating down on my brow, sweat dripping off my forehead. Mustering all my effort, I used Chrysanthemum Cleaver to twist his sword out of his hand, and a millisecond later, by sword was at his throat, gleaming in the early morning sun.

[Marko Ramius]

*I walk forward and clap my hands*

Good, we need another fighter on our journey. Sorry my lord, no offense in the least. So, you have had your practice and wish to more to Tierm, or do you wish to practice more?

*I put a hand on my sword, in preperation to duel if Daine wishes it...*

[Megara]

I smile, and draw some energy from Karu. Phalion was good, but I'm up for more. "Gladly." I say. "You're not scared?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I smile lightly and draw Tirpitz*

No I am not, what about you?

*I walk forward and bow, as tradition in duels...*

[Megara]

I give a mocking curtsy. "Not at all." Then the fight starts. I lunge into a complex manuever, knowing I'll have to give it my all. If it comes to it, I'll ditch my sword and fight hand to hand.

[Marko Ramius]

*I smile at her anxiousness to fight, I see her twirl and strike from above and merely bring my sword up and block it to the side, while I then bring it back and whip it towards her other side...*

So eager to fight, you should be more laid back, you will last longer in battle with that in mind...

[Megara]

I twist to the opposite side, parrying his blow before lunging at the same side where I just parried.

[Marko Ramius]

*I bring my arm up and tap the sword aside, then go in for a face slicer by bringing my arm down and out quickly toward her face...*

[Megara]

I duck, and hook my foot around his ankle. I smirk, and jerk him down with me. "Who's the tough guy now?" I think.

[Marko Ramius]

*I pin her sword against the ground, twisting it toward her so she can't hit me with it. I then roll over twice and twirl up in a swirl of brown dust of the dirt... I then turn to face her, ready for an attack*

It's best not to get a bigger person on the ground with you, they are probably better at wrestling, I don't care for it, but still...

[Megara]

I smile wickedly. Inside, I'm kinda worried that I'll lose, but he can't know that. "You're right. Wrestling is a bad idea." Before he can block it, I deliver a fast hard right hook to his face.

[Marko Ramius]

Ugnh...

*Not suspecting a hit, I take it right in the upper cheekbone, but it didn't do anything besides hurt. I grimace but refrain my instincts to hit back, though when I think about it it sounds sexist... but I don't hit girls. This time I use my adrenaline rush from the hit to turn and start prancing back and forth as fast as possible like a fencer (Think Princess Bride, fencing scene on the cliffs of Dispair...) and try to get her in the side somewhere, seeing her slowing down minutely*

So, do you usually hit your opponent, or just because it's another Rider who won't get knocked out from a punch like that?

[Megara]

I smirk. "Oh, I hit whoever I please." Then he does a complicated manuever, which forces my right hand into an unmoveable position. "Hah!" he says triumphantly. My smirk just widens, as I put my sword into my left hand. "You were saying?"

---------
(I love that scene)

[Marko Ramius]

*Caught off gaurd, I say...*

You're ambidextrious?

*...Before spinning to her exposed right side for a head slice, hoping to scratch her helmet as a point of finality*

(I love that scene too! "I am also not left handed". What armor do you have on?)

[Megara]

(A chain mail vest, arm and leg gauntlets, and a helm. Daine prefers to fight with lighter armor, it allows her a bit more movement. Of course, she'd have more than that on in a real fight.)
"Indeed." I swing my sword to the right, blocking his attempt at my head, before pushing my sword towards his, hoping to twist it out of his hand.

[Marko Ramius]

*I grimace in concentration, but still glad my sword isn't a traditional fencing sword, with all that cumbersome wire. Daine's sword hits the gaurd of mine and I fling it to the side, pushing her off as well. With her arm to the side, I go in for a quick stab to the gut, knowing the spell on my sword will just make it push her back and show the victor...*
-------------------------------------------------------------
(I have heavy boots, shoulder pads, full-forarm metal gauntlets, and a helmet. As you I would have mail on my torso in a battle, but for a scrimage when I have no momentum of battle, it just hinders me.)

[Megara]

His sword is heading fast towards me, but I notice it. There is the smallest spell on his sword, making it have more momentum towards me. "Thats cheating.." I think with a smirk. Then I quickly mutter a spell that locks legs and arms together. "If he can use magic, then so can I.." I think. As his arms are locked together from my spell, he drops the sword, it falling to the ground centimeters from me. Marko keels over, unable to keep his balance. I draw my sword, and point it at his neck. "Dead." I say with another smirk.

[Marko Ramius]

(I was mentioning the blocking spell that all Riders put on their swords so not to cleave their partner in two... Sorry for the confusion.)

[Megara]

Oh dang. Sorry. :P Ignore that last post then.
---------------------
I was getting tired, and I needed a shower. The sword nearing my gut gave me an opening. "Ok, I yield." I said, replacing my sword back into my sheath.

[Marko Ramius]

*I just stand there, shocked. I had almost expected a longer fight, but maybe she wasn't so battleworn as I. I finally remake my composure and bow*

It was nice to duel you. But now we must continue to Uru'Baen and Tierm. In light that Brom is extremely busy I see that it is my responsability to kill this feind.

[Megara]

I smirk. "Yeah, yeah I need a shower. Next time I won't go easy on ya." I give him a mock salute, and walk away towards the castle bathhouses.

[Marko Ramius]

*I sit down on the front stairs of the castle, waiting with Scharnhorst to leave, ready to move on in the world and do some good...*

[Megara]

I savor the last real shower I'll probably have for a while. Then, after changing into a simple outfit of brown breeches, a dark green tunic, and boots, I head back to my tent to pack.

[Marko Ramius]

*Still waiting in front of the Castle of Aberon. I take this time though, to plan out the situations of meeting this Shade...*

[Megara]

Inside my tent, I pack up all of my belongings, as well as a few things that don't belong to me, borrowed from Angela. Once I'm done, I attach my bed roll, and folded tent to my pack, and call for Karu.

[Marko Ramius]

*Scharnhorst and I see Karu sailing toward Daine's tent and we take off, loitering over the city in anticipation of our departure...*

[Megara]

I hop onto Kovu as he lands, and we talk off towards the border of camp. "Lets go Marko.." I project into his head.

[Marko Ramius]

"Agreed..."

*We fly along parallel now, off to the northwest*

So, I figure we will get to the north end of Leona Lake by the end of the day... Should we stop there and rest, or continue moving? The dragons may need rest...

[Megara]

I think for a second. "Leona is good. We should probably enter Teirm as normal travelers, so as not to draw attention. Otherwise, I'd say Kuasta."

[Marko Ramius]

*I shake my head*

It's best to just camp out of towns, but we need to get to Uru'Baen first to see Brom. I need to figure out all the facts, then we fly to Tierm, to the feind that resides there...

[Megara]

"Good point about seeing Brom. But I like staying in towns if I can, because you can pick up gossip, and important information." I say.

[Marko Ramius]

*I shrug and say*

Whatever you want...

[Megara]

I shake my head. "No, I didn't mean now. I meant normally. Kuasta would only be good if we didn't have to visit Uru Baen, and we were trying to enter Teirm via sea."

[Marko Ramius]

*I nod, and we continue flying...*

(Should we fast forward?)

[Megara]

(Good idea)

The next day, I see Uru Baen on the horizon. "Where do you wanna land?" I ask.

[Marko Ramius]

Outside the city walls, no need to get pinched in there with the dragons...

*We glide down and land only feet from the imposing outer wall...*

[Megara]

"Alright." I land Karu gracefully on the grass, and hope off. "Can we go in there as ourselves, or are we not generally welcome?"

[Marko Ramius]

Oh, we're welcome, just don't talk to the ones in red...

*I walk through the gates, and the gaurds bow, I nod my head to them*

Carry on.

*I then head toward the tall obsidian towers of the castle...*

[Megara]

"Alright." I look around the city, I haven't bee here in forever. "So where's Brom?" I ask.

[Marko Ramius]

*I point ahead of me, passing a main square that is thriving with trade again*

The black castle, he is probably advising the rulers, he does that alot these days...

[Megara]

That word perks my interest. "Rulers? What are they like, what kind of city do they run, what race are they?"

[Marko Ramius]

Ha! Daine, for a rider almost as old as i you are ignorant in the ways of your own lands. It's Alagasia! The elves travel around in their caravans, but for the most part human cities have stayed human cities, and elf cities have remained elven. The rulers of Uru'Baen are still under the same government as since before the Fall, only the last batch of corrupt rulers were thrown out and executioned.


*I make another turn, now facing the front of the castle directly, and a well built figure stood there, tall and regal, but still humble to all around him...*

[Megara]

I give an unladylike snort. "Well excuse me for not being so educated on the ways of human government, oh smart one. Who stuck a pin up your butt this morning?"

[Marko Ramius]

*I chortle at that one*

You almost did, that little poker at your hip thank you very much.

*I also think that the stupid ball could have gone better, and I could have possibly not told Daine about the infernal prophecy. We walk up to who I know as Brom, son of Eragon and give him a big hug*

My friend, it has been too long!

"Indeed it has Marko, and this would be Daine, wouldn't it?"

I was about to get to that Brom. I think it's impossible that you two didn't meet before this but she evidently was tought by Angela, of all people in Alagasia a good choice. (But Brom, I think you would have been better, more aquainted to being a Rider...) Brom, this is Daine. Daine, this is my good friend and Rider, Brom Eragonson.

[Megara]

I raise my hand in a half-wave. "Hey, Brom. Hows life treating ya?I'm Daine, as Marko said."

[Marko Ramius]

*Brom chuckles and bows*

You are like sweet Angela, so modest and forward, but more shy. Interesting. Marko...

*He shakes his head and motions us toward the outwe walls of the city, presumably where his house is and his dragon Bid'Daum reside...*

[Megara]

I give another snort. "Shy my butt. I just don't like parties." I mutter. Then we follow Brom towards the city walls. I wonder where we're going.

[Marko Ramius]

*We walk into a side door of a house, and it turns out to be a near temple, a big dragon residing inside. I bow to Bid'Daum and say*

(My friend, it has been a long time since we last met!)

(Welcome Marko, it has been a long time little one)

[Megara]

I also bow to Brom's dragon, knowing he deserves respect. (Greetings Brightscales) I think to Bid'Daum.

[Marko Ramius]

*He nods back at us then goes back to sleep*

So Brom, I am sorry to make the good reunion bad, but...

*I think of how to put the stupid shade, hoping he can guess and describe it better than I can...*

[Megara]

I sigh at his hesitancy to say it. "We heard there's a Shade causing some trouble, mostly in Teirm. Is that true?" I ask outright.

[Marko Ramius]

*Brom nodded grimly*

This new feind has been causing more trouble than any other. He doesn't follow, he leads. I don't know who he was, but he is more powerful than any other.

*I shake my head and sit down while he talks about the Shade's recent movements*

[Megara]

I also sit down and listen. The Shade problem sounds worse than Phalion thought.

[Marko Ramius]

*I nod grimly, taking in all the information. At the end of the monologue I take a deep breath and say*

I'm going home, no need to kill myself over something so dangerous to mankind...

*I shake my head and respond to their incredulous looks*

We fly this evening, meet him in the mornign, when he is weak. Two Riders should be able to take him. Am I wrong?

[Megara]

"We can take him." I say. "One Rider has taken down one alone, and so has one elf. Two riders should be fine."

[Marko Ramius]

*Brom and I share a look, thinking she is too eager to fight an enemy like a Shade*

Goodby Brom, until next time....

[Megara]

"Bye Brom!" I say cheerfully. I exit with Marko. Once we're out, I wheel on him. "What was that look about? I'm not being overconfident at all. He's just one shade, and we're two Riders with their dragons."

[Marko Ramius]

*I shrug, knowing she might have not fought many battles*

Daine, only remember that one spell can save you, while another can kill you.

*I continue out of the city and soon appear before the inside of the massive black doors...*

[Megara]

I let out a shriek of frustration. "Angela was right, men are overrated. I am not as immature as you think, Marko!" I turn and storm off towards Karu. *Karu, get ready to fly. We're going to Teirm, and I'll defeat that Shade myself.*
*Young one, are you sure thats wise?*
*Yes, now lets GO!* I climb on board of Karu, and he takes off fast towards Teirm.

[Marko Ramius]

*I shake my head, wondering why women are so non-understanding*

(Scharnhorst, can't she understand that I'm merely concerned for her? For her to be so eager to kill a Shade means she must not comprehend how dangerous it is. Eragon would have died if it had not been for Arya and Saphira...)

*We lift off and fly high into the blue sky, watching Daine and Karu from afar...*

[Megara]

On Karu, I let the wind whip through my hair, I'm just glad to be alone. Away from *him*.
(Young one, I still think you are overreacting. Go back to him, wait.) (No, Karu. I can do this!)

As night falls, I land in a wooded forest. "This will work for the night." I say.

[Marko Ramius]

*Scharnhorst and I see them land below and soar above silently, until we are sure they are asleep. We fly off toward Tierm now, getting there by tomorrow morning, being able to watch them approach and get ready to intervene in the fight in case she gets overwhelmed by the Shade...*

(Little one... what if...)

Scharnhorst, do not go there, for you know what I shall do if that happens...

[Marko Ramius]

(Megara! Respond for God's sake!)

[Megara]

(Nyah)

I wake up bright and early the next morning. Seeing no sign of Marko or Scharn, I board Karu, and we start to fly to Teirm.

[Marko Ramius]

(You're blonde aren't you?)

*Scharnhorst and Marko have been sleeping since they got to the mountains outside Tierm. Around noon they wake up, and see the pair on the horizon, the two stay hidden in the trees, but Marko eventually walks out in a brown traveling coat, having taken his cape off, to hide all his dark armor. He goes through the gate as Daine lands, watching from a side street, hiding his mind from others but also searching through the crowds for the twisted and powerful mind of the Shade...*

[Megara]

(*Gasp* How dare you insult me in such a fashion?)

I land outside Tierm. *Karu* I say. *You'll need to stay outside the city, there's no room for you. I'll call you if I need you.*
*Ok* I can hear the exasperation and worry in his voice. *But be careful.*
*Alright* I promise, then remove my packs. Since my presence is known, I figure it'll be best if I disguise myself. I mutter a quick spell that changes my straight dark hair to blonde curls, and my hazel eyes to blue. Then I change into a skirt, and nicer shirt, before seeing Karu off.

I walk over to the main road that leads towards the gate, and merge in with the other travelers. I get inside the city without a hitch, and decide to find an inn, so I can start my search.

[Marko Ramius]

*I walk along the streets, casually looking into the windows, and just happen to see another Rider walk into one of the Inns...*

Perfect...

*I walk into the back of the Inn to the bar and get a firewhiskey...*

[Megara]

I strut into the inn, and put on my best charming look. I arrange for a room, using the name Celia. Then I order a drink, then sit down, and listen to the gossip flowing around me, hoping to pick up something. Keeping up my act, I occasionally fiddle with or flip my newly blonde curls.

[Marko Ramius]

*I suddenly look up from my firewhiskey and NEARLY choke on it. I tilt my head down, covering my face in the traveling cloak's hood. After a few minutes I walk silently out of the noisy Inn like a ghost. I wander the streets almost aimlessly looking for a building...*

[Megara]

As the mindless chatter washes over me, I pick up a few key phrases. "Won't let the kids out after dark, or alone...." "Heard he's raising an army.." "Maybe the next Galbatorix." "A shade? Really"
"That gives me something, at least he's here." I think. Suddenly, this man, obviously drunk, comes thudding over to my table. "Hey," he leers. "Whats a pretty lady like you doing alone?" I lift my blue eyes up, and give him an icy glare. "My fionce is on business. You should go, he's the jealous type." The man hesitates for a moment, then walks away.

[Marko Ramius]

(Nice lie)

*I finally find what I was looking for, a small worn shop with cracked windows and plants flowing all over: Angela's old Shop. I then look to the house to the right, the one where I know Jeod used to live, where his loyal grandson is now...*

[Megara]

( I know :P )

After eating, I decide to walk around the city. Maybe I'll see Angela's old shop. I wander in the general direction of it.

[Marko Ramius]

*I knock on the door and a skinny kid in his thirties opens the doors, it takes him a minute but he eventually recognizes me. After a double take we shake hands in greeting and go in for some drinks. I ask about the Shade, getting straight to the point. Josha starts describing a man, very similar to Saphira's memories of Durza. A shiver crawls down my spine, giving me a suspicious feeling...*

Where shall this thing appear next, or does he hide from the general public?

[Megara]

I stand outside Angela's old shop. "I miss it.." I thought. I had visited it frequently with Angela when I was younger. I slowly opened the door, and went into the deserted shop. It smelled like lavender, and cats. Just like it always did.

[Marko Ramius]

*I continue to listen to Josha's information on the Shade before something brushes my subconcious. I expand my mind silently before recioling. Daine was in... Angela's shop? Oh, that would actually make sense, from growing up there. I begin hurrying up the conversation, knowing eventually Daine might come here for information. Josha, seeing my expression, slowly stops talking and inquires. I say*

Another Rider is here, Daine, your father may remember her from her apprenticeship of Angela, who owns the shop next door...

[Megara]

After reminiscing for a bit, I leave the shop. I head back to my room in the inn, and wait for dark. I had found out all I needed to know about where the Shade was. Before setting out, I carefully set up stronger guards around my mind, so no one could touch my conscience.

[Marko Ramius]

(Out of curiosity where did you get the info?)

*I sense Daine leave and finish my conversation. I leave and go back to the Inn, and get a beer this time, sitting in the corner, talking with Scharnhorst and waiting for something to happen...*

(Think Aragorn the first time we see him in LoTR...)

[Megara]

(I haven't seen the movie, but love the book. You are referring to in the inn when they think he's Strider? And, she's not telling. It's her secret)

I head downstairs, with my small pack, and leggings under my skirt. As I peer around the stairs, I notice a familiar figure sitting at a table alone. "Darn him!" I think. I strengthen my mind blocks even more, so he can't figure out its me by touching my conscience. Then I make sure my blonde curls and blue eyes are intact, by looking into a mirror on the stairs. Finally positive that he won't recognize me, I head to the front counter, and pay for my room with a flirtatious wink, then leave the Inn.

[Marko Ramius]

(Ha, think you're going to get away that easily? he he he shoulda turned into a man! And yes, you need to see the movies!)

*I see a blond woman leave the place, at first not paying attention, but then I realize a few things. First, since when do ladies walk alone in the city at night? Two, especially during a curfew. Three, I couldn't sense her mind. Now that's what really stumped me. Even I didn't know that was possible, for the only beings able to do that are the Raz'ak... Oh, the dwarves in the tunnels under Tronjheim. I suddenly remembered Eragon telling me about that in one of his lectures. I jump out of my seat and bound for the door, hoping she didn't disapear into the night and out of visual range...*

[Megara]

(I plan to)

I walk along the dark street silently, heading towards my destination. That Shade is going down. "I'll show him.." I think.

[Marko Ramius]

*I see Daine go around another corner and keep the same pace, knowing the city is built with perfectly square blocks. I guess she knows I'm in the area, but not completely sure. Scharnhorst said he saw Karu land in the forrests on the other side of the valley...*

[Megara]

(How does he the blonde lady is Daine?)

[Marko Ramius]

(Did you read my posts? I gave valid reasons to for guessing it was you!)

*Suddenly, I sense a different concious, not the vague one I was trailing or a sleeping human, but... one of hollow and echoing thoughts, like many spirits bouncing around...*

Oh boy, here we go!

*I mumble to myself*

[Megara]

(Oh, k.)

Suddenly, I stop. "There he is.." I think. I step into Angela's shop, locating the mind I felt here earlier today.

[Marko Ramius]

*I see her walk into a building, and walk to the side of the road... before realizing it was Angela's Shop? I reorient myself and cast a spell that allows me to listen to the sound in the shop...*

[Megara]

"Come out Fenzi." I call. "I'm not scared." A tall, deathly pale, scarlet-haired figure comes out of the shadows. "So, girl.." he says. "You challenge my hold over this city?"

[Marko Ramius]

*At this point my eyes are open wide, along with my adrenaline glands. I immerse myself in the flow of magic, ready to intercept anything at a moment's notice...*

[Megara]

"'Course." I say. "You're killing innocent people." He just laughs, a menacing laugh that makes me shiver. "Alright." He says. "No magic, just the old-fashioned way, with swords." I smile, glad I had practiced before I entered Tierm, and draw Chrysanthemum Cleaver, and take the guard off. He takes out a long silver rapier.

[Marko Ramius]

*My eyes widen and the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end, hearing the "Shiiiiiing" of swords being drawn. I slowly creep around to the front, where I can see them from the side of the dirty window. I see the Shade, more agile than I could have imagined someone like that, maybe more so than an elf. I figure Daine, would last maybe five minutes before he gained an upper hand. I lick my lips and slowly and silently draw my sword...*

This will not end well...

[Megara]

I hear someone mutter, and recognize the voice immediately. "Darn him!" I mutter vehlemently, before lunging at the Shade fiercely. The duel begins.

[Marko Ramius]

*I see her shoot a glance back to the window, but she probably didn't see me. Then she curses and attacks the Shade. At this point I'm shaking, resisting myself from helping, hoping to show her that Shade's aren't to be taken so lightly. But then, she was in danger, I needed to help... Arrgh! I watch in horror as the Shade begins to use heavy blows, banging away at her arms...*

[Megara]

I duck and weave, figuring he has more strength than I do, but hopefully not as much agility and stamina. If I can tire him out... I keep moving quickly, and when I can, send in quick, biting blows.

[Marko Ramius]

*I see Daine hopping around and slashing at the Shade. My heart clenches in fear as I realize she's trying to get him, in the slightest. She must not realize Shades are not mortal, and therefore have more energy and stamina than a man (women too), even a Rider. The only way to really kill one, as Eragon showed twice, was to outsmart and overwhelm them. But I have a hunch that this one is smarter than the average Shade, to survive for so long in a city like this, and to not attack? I see them crash through one of the glass counters and I leap forward through the glass window for a better view and to...*

[Megara]

"I can handle this!" I shriek at Marko, all pretense of being someone else gone. I lunge at the Shade, aiming for his heart. I miss, and hit him in the stomach. That would be a fatal wound on a normal man, but instead he just vanishes into black smoke. I stand there, panting.

[Marko Ramius]

*I sigh and extend a hand to help her up*

Of course you can, but nobody sould fight an opponent alone, especially when against a Shade, and especially when it's someone as valuable as you. I don't think you realize that yet. We are in an age when there are Riders, but they are still valuable as an army. Maybe I don't realize how strong you are, you showed me that here tonight... although it would have been nice if you aimed a little higher... but that's no reason for me to stay behind. Next time, we, not I shall take it on. I have been protecting there lands with Brom for twenty years longer than you Daine, but I have found with him and you that it helps to have friends.

*I scratch the back of my neck with my other arm and say*

Listen, I'm sorry for what I said two days ago...

[Megara]

I pant, tired, too tired to think. "I need to sleep" I say. "I'll think about your apology." I storm out of Angela's now chaotic shop, and walk briskly back to the inn. Too tired to deal with questions, I manage to levitate myself through my window, and I collapse on my bed.

[Marko Ramius]

*I shake my head and ball my fists, not believing this is happening. It seems like I'm trying to blow away that silly prophecy that Angela foretold, and the Shade will return, more powerful by a factor of two! I haven't had this much stress since... Not going there. Even helping Integium was more fun than this! I take another deep breath and let out the anger, or most of it that is, and go back to the Inn where I get a bottle of whiskey...*