That was…awkward. Saphira remarked.

Yes, she’s definitely preoccupied with something else. I suppose I should go tell Roran about our plans? Eragon couldn’t really think of anything better to do.

All right, little one. Now, I’m going to go hunting. Saphira sent a mind-picture to him; Eragon briefly saw a deer perched down eating grass.

Good luck with that. Eragon smiled briefly, before walking out and finding Roran’s tent. Eragon remembered that he camped with the rest of the villagers…although as to where, Eragon had no idea. He then saw Horst looking around at the market stands, his gaze fixated at a silver brooch.

“Horst!” Eragon called. Horst turned around, surprised, which quickly changed into smile as he saw Eragon. “How are you?” Despite his smile, Eragon detected a small trace of fear at his appearance.

“Good, thanks. Where are the villagers camping? I would like to see Roran.”

Horst pointed at a campsite south; with his newfound vision, Eragon could make faint outlines of villagers…he saw Birgit, Loring, Gertrude… Eragon quickly thanked Horst before walking to the campsite.

When he got there, many greetings came from his former villagers; several looked taken aback, but greeted him warmly. Eragon did his best to be polite, despite being rather impatient. He was forced to accept several cups of tea, as well as being the newfound topic of interest in the minds of many villagers. After nearly an hour of exchanging greetings and gossip, Eragon finally walked in to his brother’s tent.

“Roran?” Eragon didn’t see anyone in the small cramped tent. He cautiously stepped in, noting the heat coming from the pallet. Eragon could deduce that someone, most likely Roran, had been lying down just a minute ago.

“Eragon!” Eragon turned to find his brother staring at him, a grin spread across his tired face. Then came the more serious tone. “When are we going to rescue Katrina?”

“Most likely tomorrow, for the reason being that I must be present for Hrothgar’s funeral.” Eragon said. He noticed Roran’s downcast expression and quickly added, “Don’t worry, we’ll leave first thing tomorrow.”

Roran paused for a brief second, struck by indecision. However, the expression vanished almost as soon as it occurred. “All right…although let me tell you this, Eragon. If this delay causes Katrina’s death, then you will have me to answer to.” Roran then trotted away, ignoring Eragon’s expression of shock.

What’s wrong with Roran? He’s become…so withdrawn. Eragon needed some assurance that what he did was the right thing; he figured he needed his Saphira’s advice.

He has suffered much, just like you have…just give him time. With that, Saphira broke off their mental link and continued her hunting trip.

Eragon sighed. He supposed the best thing to do was to cool down his emotions and meditate for awhile…Sighing, he walked deep into the forest, sitting down in front of a cool river. Slowly, Oromis’ lessons came back to him.

–

A/N: I know readers of this will expect almost immediately a new chapter, but unless the actual Brisingr fails to live up to my expectations (i.e. no Eragon/Arya), this story will probably be discontinued. School is dragging me down into the dirt, and to make matters worse, I’m probably going to make almost every club I tryout for (which is like 4…) Still, reviews can always change my mind…well, maybe…you never know. If I’m really unsatisfied with the book, you can expect updates to this story. However, if you like what I’m writing so far, don’t hesitate to add me to your Author’s Alert: I will probably make a Book 4 for the Inheritance Cycle. May your swords stay sharp!

2 A/N: Book 4: Legacy has been made. Check it on FF.NET!!!