Dragon Riders

Many years ago, there lived an alliance of men and elves that stood for peace and virtue. These individuals were known as the Dragon Riders. Their mission in the world was not only to keep peace amongst those in Alagaesia, but also to guard and protect it as well. And for a long time, they succeed in doing just that. The Riders’ reign lasted for myriads of years. Throughout that time countless buildings and cities were constructed, the land thrived, and wealth and prosperity was widespread among the people.

The first Rider was an elf named Eragon, who by chance, stumbled upon an abandoned dragon egg. During the time before the Riders were formed, the elves and dragons were at war, both sides attacking each other viciously. Seeing it as an opportunity to bring an end to the war, Eragon kept the egg and raised the dragon in secret. Once the dragon, Bid’Daum, was mature, they set out to convince the dragon race to make peace with the elves. Soon treaties were formed, and all hostility had vanished. So for many years, elves as well as men were chosen to form an elite faction in order to maintain that peace. Eventually, the Riders took the island Vroenguard for their home and built a city: Doru Areaba. It was said that, at one time, they held more power than all the kings in Alagaesia.

At young ages, men and elves were brought before the Riders to be tested. If potential was shown, the child was accepted to be trained. Upon receiving a dragon, the Rider would also obtain a silver oval on the palm of their hand. The gedwey ignasia, which means “shining palm,” was the name for this peculiar mark. It came from touching a dragon hatchling and was one of the Rider’s most distinguishable marks. Because of this renowned feature, many often referred to the Riders as Argetlam, which is an elvish word that means silver hand. Another recognizable trait of the Riders was the pointed ears that began to grow over a period of time of being chosen to ride. Although, the tips were not as obvious as the elves’, they were still noticeable. Once a Rider finished their training, they were presented a sword from the elves. The blades were colored to match that of the dragon they owned. Their personal crest was engraved on the blade of the weapon and its sheath.

There are several qualities in which the Riders possessed. Some of which were more obvious than others. Riders, or Shur’tugals, were very talented in both physical and magical defense. They were stronger in body, sharper in mind, and more precise in vision than ordinary men. It is claimed that they possessed the strength of ten men. They formed mental bonds with their dragons, allowing to be able receive strength from the dragon whenever necessary. It also allowed for communication between the two’s minds.

Every Rider was taught how to use magic. Wanting to keep the advantage over their enemies, this ability was kept secret. A Rider’s magic was not like that of a shade, magician, or sorcerer. Students were not told of their potential powers until the time came for them to train for it. Young Riders were put through a rigorous system designed to reinforce their bodies and increase their mental control. This training continued for months and sometimes even years, until the Riders were deemed able to handle magic proficiently. Pointless tasks were often assigned in order to help them learn. They were told things such as to move a pile of giant stones with their feet, and fill a draining tub with water. After a while, the students got infuriated enough to use magic. If a student accidentally discovered their powers before time to train, they were given secret training to keep the secret from leaking out. But it was very rare for one to discover magic so young. Riders preferred channeling their magic through the hand in with their gedwey ignasia rested. Using the other palm wasn’t as easy, but it could be used as well.

In battles, their powers were unmatched. They lived for hundreds of years, and unless slain by blade or poison, Shur’tugals were immortal. No enemy could destroy them. They guarded themselves well from their enemies, but unfortunately they never considered guarding from one of their own. For by this time, some of the Riders had become arrogant of their power.

Galbatorix, born in Inzilbeth, was tested to become a Rider at the age of ten. In training he exceeded all others in skill. He had a sharp mind and strong body. Some saw him as dangerous, but their warnings were ignored. After a tragic accident that resulted in the death of two friends, their dragons, and his own, Galbatorix lost his sanity. Stranded on foot, Galbatorix made his way back to the Riders in hopes that they might grant him another Dragon. This journey took him months, and by the end of it he was near death. Once he reached his destination, he went before the elders and demanded another dragon. The other Riders, sensing his madness and desperation, denied him. They saw him for what he truly was. After this, Galbatorix came to blame the other Riders for his loss and wanted revenge.

One day, along with another mislead Rider, he murdered one of the elders. When the deed was done, Galbatorix turned and killed the other Rider that had helped him. The Riders found him, and he was forced to flee. For years he hid in wastelands, until he met another Rider named Morzan. He convinced Morzan to leave the gate unbolted in the citadel Ilirea, which is now Uru’baen. Galbatorix slinked in and stole a dragon hatchling. The two Riders then hid themselves in a place where Riders would not dare venture. Morzan entered apprenticeship and was taught dark magic from Galbatorix. Soon, they revealed their selves, and fought any rider they met. Eventually twelve Riders betrayed the rest and joined Galbatorix in desire for power and revenge. Those thirteen, including Morzan, became known as the Thirteen Forsworn. As a team, the Forsworn helped murder the other Riders. In attempt to aid the Shur’tugals, the Elves and Dwarves fought as well, but they were soon overthrown.

Only Vrael, leader of the Riders, could resist. He struggled to save what he could and keep the remaining dragons from Galbatorix. In last battle, in front of the gates of Doru Areaba, Vrael defeated Galbatorix but hesitated with the final blow. Galbatorix took this opportunity and smote him in the side. Vrael then fled to Utgard Mountain in order to gather strength. But he was soon found by Galbatorix and was forced to fight. During the fight, Galbatorix kicked Vrael in underhanded way. He used thisng to remove Vrael’s head. After that, Galbatorix named himself King of all of Alagaesia. This incident finalized the end of the Dragon Riders.