by Eragon (lit)
Brom relaxed into a chair and pulled out his pipe. He slowly blew a smoke ring that turned green, darted into the fireplace, then flew up the chimney. you remember what we were doing in Gil’ead?
of course,said Jeod. sort of thing is hard to forget.
understatement, but true nevertheless,said Brom dryly. we wereseparated, I couldn’t find you. In the midst of the turmoil I stumbled into a small room. There wasn’t anything extraordinary in it—just crates and boxes—but out of curiosity, I rummaged around anyway. Fortune smiled on me that hour, for I found what we had been searching for.An expression of shock ran over Jeod’s face. it was in my hands, I couldn’t wait for you. At any second I might have been discovered, and all lost. Disguising myself as best I could, I fled the city and ran to theBrom hesitated and glanced at Eragon, then said, ran to our friends. They stored it in a vault, for safekeeping, and made me promise to care for whomever received it. Until the day when my skills would be needed, I had to disappear. No one could know that I was alive—not even you—though it grieved me to pain you unnecessarily. So I went north and hid in Carvahall.
Eragon clenched his jaw, infuriated that Brom was deliberately keeping him in the dark.
Jeod frowned and asked, ourfriends knew that you were alive all along?
He sighed. suppose the ruse was unavoidable, though I wish they had told me. Isn’t Carvahall farther north, on the other side of the Spine? Brom inclined his head. For the first time, Jeod inspected Eragon. His gray eyes took in every detail. He raised his eyebrows and said, assume, then, that you are fulfilling your duty.
Brom shook his head. it’s not that simple. It was stolen a while ago—at least that’s what I presume, for I haven’t received word from our friends, and I suspect their messengers were waylaid—so I decided to find out what I could. Eragon happened to be traveling in the same direction. We have stayed together for a time now.
Jeod looked puzzled. if they haven’t sent any messages, how could you know that it was—
Brom overrode him quickly, saying, ’s uncle was brutally killed by the Ra’zac. They burned his home and nearly caught him in the process. He deserves revenge, but they have left us without a trail to follow, and we need help finding them.
Jeod’s face cleared. seeBut why have you come here? I don’t know where the Ra’zac might be hiding, and anyone who does won’t tell you.
Standing, Brom reached into his robe and pulled out the Ra’zac’s flask. He tossed it to Jeod. ’s Seithr oil in there—the dangerous kind. The Ra’zac were carrying it. They lost it by the trail, and we happened to find it. We need to see Teirm’s shipping records so we can trace the Empire’s purchases of the oil. That should tell us where the Ra’zac’s lair is.
Lines appeared on Jeod’s face as he thought. He pointed at the books on the shelves. you see those? They are all records from my business. One business. You have gotten yourself into a project that could take months. There is another, greater problem. The records you seek are held in this castle, but only Brand, Risthart’s administrator of trade, sees them on a regular basis. Traders such as myself aren’t allowed to handle them. They fear that we will falsify the results, thus cheating the Empire of its precious taxes.
can deal with that when the time comes,said Brom. we need a few days of rest before we can think about proceeding.
Jeod smiled. seems that it is my turn to help you. My house is yours, of course. Do you have another name while you are here?
said Brom, ’m Neal, and the boy is Evan.
said Jeod thoughtfully. have a unique name. Few have ever been named after the first Rider. In my life I’ve read about only three people who were called such.Eragon was startled that Jeod knew the origin of his name.
Brom looked at Eragon. you go check on the horses and make sure they’re all right? I don’t think I tied Snowfire to the ring tightly enough.
They’re trying to hide something from me. The moment I leave they’re going to talk about it. Eragon shoved himself out of the chair and left the room, slamming the door shut. Snowfire had not moved; the knot that held him was fine. Scratching the horses’ necks, Eragon leaned sullenly against the castle wall.
It’s not fair, he complained to himself. If only I could hear what they are saying. He jolted upright, electrified. Brom had once taught him some words that would enhance his hearing. Keen ears aren’t exactly what I want, but I should be able to make the words work. After all, look what I could do with brisingr!
He concentrated intensely and reached for his power. Once it was within his grasp, he said, stenr un atra eka hand imbued the words with his will. As the power rushed out of him, he heard a faint whisper in his ears, but nothing more. Disappointed, he sank back, then started as Jeod said, —and I’ve been doing that for almost eight years now.
Eragon looked around. No one was there except for a few guards standing against the far wall of the keep. Grinning, he sat on the courtyard and closed his eyes.
never expected you to become a merchant,said Brom. all the time you spent in books. And finding the passageway in that manner! What made you take up trading instead of remaining a scholar?
Gil’ead, I didn’t have much taste for sitting in musty rooms and reading scrolls. I decided to help Ajihad as best I could, but I’m no warrior. My father was a merchant as well—you may remember that. He helped me get started. However, the bulk of my business is nothing more than a front to get goods into Surda.
I take it that things have been going badly,said Brom.
none of the shipments have gotten through lately, and Tronjheim is running low on supplies. Somehow the Empire—at least I think it’s them—has discovered those of us who have been helping to support Tronjheim. But I’m still not convinced that it’s the Empire. No one sees any soldiers. I don’t understand it. Perhaps Galbatorix hired mercenaries to harass us.
heard that you lost a ship recently.
last one I owned,answered Jeod bitterly. man on it was loyal and brave. I doubt I’ll ever see them againThe only option I have left is to send caravans to Surda or Gil’ead—which I know won’t get there, no matter how many guards I hire—or charter someone else’s ship to carry the goods. But no one will take them now.
many merchants have been helping you?asked Brom.
a good number up and down the seaboard. All of them have been plagued by the same troubles. I know what you are thinking; I’ve pondered it many a night myself, but I cannot bear the thought of a traitor with that much knowledge and power. If there is one, we’re all in jeopardy. You should return to Tronjheim.
take Eragon there?interrupted Brom. ’d tear him apart. It’s the worst place he could be right now. Maybe in a few months or, even better, a year. Can you imagine how the dwarves will react? Everyone will be trying to influence him, especially Islanzadi. He and Saphira won’t be safe in Tronjheim until I at least get them through tuatha du orothrim.
Dwarves! thought Eragon excitedly. Where is this Tronjheim? And why did he tell Jeod about Saphira? He shouldn’t have done that without asking me!
I have a feeling that they are in need of your power and wisdom.
snorted Brom. ’m just what you said earlier—a crotchety old man.
would disagree.
them. I’ve no need to explain myself. No, Ajihad will have to get along without me. What I’m doing now is much more important. But the prospect of a traitor raises troubling questions. I wonder if that’s how the Empire knew where to beHis voice trailed off.
I wonder why I haven’t been contacted about this,said Jeod.
they tried. But if there’s a traitorBrom paused. I have to send word to Ajihad. Do you have a messenger you can trust?
think so,said Jeod. depends on where he would have to go.
don’t know,said Brom. ’ve been isolated so long, my contacts have probably died or forgotten me. Could you send him to whoever receives your shipments?
but it’ll be risky.
isn’t these days? How soon ca
n he leave?
can go in the morning. I’ll send him to Gil’ead. It will be faster,said Jeod. can he take to convince Ajihad the message comes from you?
give your man my ring. And tell him that if he loses it, I’ll personally tear his liver out. It was given to me by the queen.
’t you cheery,commented Jeod.
Brom grunted. After a long silence he said, ’d better go out and join Eragon. I get worried when he’s alone. That boy has an unnatural propensity for being wherever there’s trouble.
you surprised?
really.
Eragon heard chairs being pushed back. He quickly pulled his mind away and opened his eyes. ’s going on?he muttered to himself. Jeod and other traders are in trouble for helping people the Empire doesn’t favor. Brom found something in Gil’ead and went to Carvahall to hide. What could be so important that he would let his own friend think he was dead for nearly twenty years? He mentioned a queen—when there aren’t any queens in the known kingdoms—and dwarves, who, as he himself told me, disappeared underground long ago.
He wanted answers! But he would not confront Brom now and risk jeopardizing their mission. No, he would wait until they left Teirm, and then he would persist until the old man explained his secrets. Eragon’s thoughts were still whirling when the door opened.
the horses all right?asked Brom.
said Eragon. They untied the horses and left the castle.
As they reentered the main body of Teirm, Brom said, Jeod, you finally got married. And,he winked slyly, a lovely young woman. Congratulations.
Jeod did not seem happy with the compliment. He hunched his shoulders and stared down at the street. congratulations are in order is debatable right now. Helen isn’t very happy.
What does she want?asked Brom.
usual,said Jeod with a resigned shrug. good home, happy children, food on the table, and pleasant company. The problem is that she comes from a wealthy family; her father has invested heavily in my business. If I keep suffering these losses, there won’t be enough money for her to live the way she’s used to.
Jeod continued, please, my troubles are not your troubles. A host should never bother his guests with his own concerns. While you are in my house, I will let nothing more than an over-full stomach disturb you.
you,said Brom. appreciate the hospitality. Our travels have long been without comforts of any kind. Do you happen to know where we could find an inexpensive shop? All this riding has worn out our clothes.
course. That’s my job,said Jeod, lightening up. He talked eagerly about prices and stores until his house was in sight. Then he asked, you mind if we went somewhere else to eat? It might be awkward if you came in right now.
makes you feel comfortable,said Brom.
Jeod looked relieved. Let’s leave your horses in my stable.
They did as he suggested, then followed him to a large tavern. Unlike the Green Chestnut, this one was loud, clean, and full of boisterous people. When the main course arrived—a stuffed suckling pig—Eragon eagerly dug into the meat, but he especially savored the potatoes, carrots, turnips, and sweet apples that accompanied it. It had been a long time since he had eaten much more than wild game.
They lingered over the meal for hours as Brom and Jeod swapped stories. Eragon did not mind. He was warm, a lively tune jangled in the background, and there was more than enough food. The spirited tavern babble fell pleasantly on his ears.
When they finally exited the tavern, the sun was nearing the horizon. two go ahead; I have to check on something,Eragon said. He wanted to see Saphira and make sure that she was safely hidden.
Brom agreed absently. careful. Don’t take too long.
said Jeod. you going outside Teirm?Eragon hesitated, then reluctantly nodded. sure you’re inside the walls before dark. The gates close then, and the guards won’t let you back in until morning.
won’t be late,promised Eragon. He turned around and loped down a side street, toward Teirm’s outer wall. Once out of the city, he breathed deeply, enjoying the fresh air. Saphira! he called. Where are you? She guided him off the road, to the base of a mossy cliff surrounded by maples. He saw her head poke out of the trees on the top and waved. How am I supposed to get up there?
If you find a clearing, I’ll come down and get you.
No, he said, eyeing the cliff, that won’t be necessary. I’ll just climb up.
It’s too dangerous.
And you worry too much. Let me have some fun.
Eragon pulled off his gloves and started climbing. He relished the physical challenge. There were plenty of handholds, so the ascent was easy. He was soon high above the trees. Halfway up, he stopped on a ledge to catch his breath.
Once his strength returned, he stretched up for the next handhold, but his arm was not long enough. Stymied, he searched for another crevice or ridge to grasp. There was none. He tried backing down, but his legs could not reach his last foothold. Saphira watched with unblinking eyes. He gave up and said, I could use some help.
This is your own fault.
Yes! I know. Are you going to get me down or not?
If I weren’t around, you would be in a very bad situation.
Eragon rolled his eyes. You don’t have to tell me.
You’re right. After all, how can a mere dragon expect to tell a man like yourself what to do? In fact, everyone should stand in awe of your brilliance of finding the only dead end. Why, if you had started a few feet in either direction, the path to the top would have been clear. She cocked her head at him, eyes bright.
All right! I made a mistake. Now can you please get me out of here? he pleaded. She pulled her head back from the edge of the cliff. After a moment he called, Above him were only swaying trees. Come back!he roared.
With a loud crash Saphira barreled off the top of the cliff, flipping around in midair. She floated down to Eragon like a huge bat and grabbed his shirt with her claws, scratching his back. He let go of the rocks as she yanked him up in the air. After a brief flight, she set him down gently on the top of the cliff and tugged her claws out of his shirt.
Foolishness, said Saphira gently.
Eragon looked away, studying the landscape. The cliff provided a wonderful view of their surroundings, especially the foaming sea, as well as protection against unwelcome eyes. Only birds would see Saphira here. It was an ideal location.
Is Brom’s friend trustworthy? she asked.
I don’t know. Eragon proceeded to recount the day’s events. There are forces circling us that we aren’t aware of. Sometimes I wonder if we can ever understand the true motives of the people around us. They all seem to have secrets.
It is the way of the world. Ignore all the schemes and trust in the nature of each person. Brom is good. He means us no harm. We don’t have to fear his plans.
I hope so, he said, looking down at his hands.
This finding of the Ra’zac through writing is a strange way of tracking, she remarked. Would there be a way to use magic to see the records without being inside the room?
I’m not sure. You would have to combine the word forseeingwithdistanceor maybelightanddistance. Either way, it seems rather difficult. I’ll ask Brom.
That would be wise. They lapsed into tranquil silence.
You know, we may have to stay here awhile.
Saphira’s answer held a hard edge. And as always, I will be left to wait outside.
That is not how I want it. Soon enough we will travel together again.
May that day come quickly.
Eragon smiled and hugged her. He noticed then how rapidly the light was fading. I have to go now, before I’m locked out of Teirm. Hunt tomorrow, and I will see you in the evening.
She spread her wings. Come, I will take you down. He got onto her scaly back and held on tightly as she launched off the cliff, glided over the trees, then landed on a knoll. Eragon thanked her and ran back to Teirm.
He came into sight of the portcullis just as it was beginning to lower.
Calling for them to wait, he put on a burst of speed and slipped inside seconds before the gateway slammed closed. cut that a little close,observed one of the guards.
won’t happen again,assured Eragon, bending over to catch his breath. He wound his way through the darkened city to Jeod’s house. A lantern hung outside like a beacon.
A plump butler answered his knock and ushered him inside without a word. Tapestries covered the stone walls. Elaborate rugs dotted the polished wood floor, which glowed with the light from three gold candelabra hanging from the ceiling. Smoke drifted through the air and collected above.
way, sir. Your friend is in the study.
They passed scores of doorways until the butler opened one to reveal a study. Books covered the room’s walls. But unlike those in Jeod’s office, these came in every size and shape. A fireplace filled with blazing logs warmed the room. Brom and Jeod sat before an oval writing desk, talking amiably. Brom raised his pipe and said in a jovial voice, Ah, here you are. We were getting worried about you. How was your walk?
I wonder what put him in such a good mood? Why doesn’t he just come out and ask how Saphira is? but the guards almost locked me outside the city. And Teirm is big. I had trouble finding this house.
Jeod chuckled. you have seen Dras-Leona, Gil’ead, or even Kuasta, you won’t be so easily impressed by this small ocean city. I like it here, though. When it’s not raining, Teirm is really quite beautiful.
Eragon turned to Brom. you have any idea how long we’ll be here?
Brom spread his palms upward. ’s hard to tell. It depends on whether we can get to the records and how long it will take us to find what we need. We’ll all have to help; it will be a huge job. I’ll talk with Brand tomorrow and see if he’ll let us examine the records.
don’t think I’ll be able to help,Eragon said, shifting uneasily.
not?asked Brom. will be plenty of work for you.
Eragon lowered his head. can’t read.
Brom straightened with disbelief. mean Garrow never taught you?
knew how to read?asked Eragon, puzzled. Jeod watched them with interest.
course he did,snorted Brom. proud fool—what was he thinking? I should have realized that he wouldn’t have taught you. He probably considered it an unnecessary luxury.Brom scowled and pulled at his beard angrily. This sets my plans back, but not irreparably. I’ll just have to teach you how to read. It won’t take long if you put your mind to it.
