Snippet #2215125

Blue. All around them, beautiful blue sky. The rush of wind whipping through her silver hair, throwing her braid back out behind her to float along as if held up by some invisible string. How could she ever have considered not taking her chances at becoming a dragon rider? It was the most glorious feeling in life.

Most glorious? Mm, yes. I agree. And I am happy that you did not turn the chance down. I had been waiting oh so long for you, Gael.

Gaelwen smiled. That connection was like nothing she had ever known before and likely never would. To have a simple thought, shared as easily as if it had been spoken aloud. She leaned low over Firroth's back and lovingly stroked the rough green scales. I know, dunei. If I had known you were waiting for me, I'd have come sooner.

A feeling of utter contentment was emanating from the dragon and she let out a rumbling laugh deep in her throat. Yes. Now, let us not get so serious whilst we enjoy our flight, hm? Time for some fun.

Gael bit her lip. Fun? Suddenly the dragon was twisting around, changing direction unexpectedly, and she began hurtling toward the earth at frightening speeds. The elf woman clutched at her saddle with both hands, her knees tightening around the dragon's back to keep her properly seated. "Skulblaka ven," she whispered, and suddenly her vision joined with that of her beloved dragon. She felt a thrill as she watched the land rushing up to meet them.

Then she realized what Firroth was doing. She had spotted the black dragon Mal'irahc and was taunting him, headed straight toward the poor creature. "Firroth!" she shouted, her voice swallowed by the wind that whipped past their bodies. "If he bites you, I will not feel sorry in the slightest!"

He wouldn't dare, that mirthful voice rang out through her mind.

Gaelwen let out a grumble and shook her head. You will get us into trouble with Eragon, you obnoxious beast. One of these days he is going to see you being bothersome and he will send Saphira after us.

Oh! Do you think so? That would be such fun!

Mal grew larger and larger in the draconic vision, and Gael found herself leaning up slightly, as if she could pull the dragon out of its descent with a hand on the saddle. Then suddenly, the green dragon let out a challenging bugle before she flung her wings out and righted her flight, her green scales nearly brushing the top of tent that Mal's rider stood inside. As it was, the thick canvas was assaulted with a heavy wind and Gael twisted around to watch as the sides of the tent fluttered wildly as the pair made their way back toward the sky.

You are bloody impossible, dragon, Gael thought sullenly.

I love you too, Gaelwen, came the laughing voice once more.