"What," asked Eragon, "is the situation here?"

Nasuada sighed then told of how Orrin had learned of Galbatorix's army and the desperate measures they had resorted to since in order to reach the Burning Plains before the king's soldiers. She finished by saying, "The Empire arrived just recently. Since then, we've exchanged two messages. First they asked for our surrender, which we refused, and now we wait for their reply."

"How many of them are there?" growled Orik. "It looked a mighty number from Saphira's back."

"Aye. We estimate Galbatorix mustered as many as a hundred thousand soldiers."

Eragon could not contain himself. "A hundred thousand! Where did they come from? It seems impossible that he could find more than a handful of people willing to serve him."

"They were conscripted. We can only hope that the men who were torn from their homes won't be eager to fight. If we can frighten them badly enough, they may break ranks and flee. Our numbers are greater than in Farthen Dûr, for King Orrin has joined forces with us and we have received a veritable flood of volunteers since we began to spread word about you, Eragon, although we are still far weaker than the Empire."

Then Saphira asked, and Eragon was forced to repeat the dreadful question. What do you think our chances of victory are?

"That," said Nasuada, putting emphasis on the word, "depends a great deal upon you and Eragon, and the number of magicians seeded throughout their troops. If you ca-," She wasn't able to finish as a young man rushed into the pavilion with heavy breathing. "Nasuada, I apologize for any interruption, but we have a situation!" He finished with a bit of worry.

"Speak then, what troubles have brought you here as of now?" Nasuada nodded as she waited for the man's response.

"Our scouts have spotted something, headed this way!" He said with uncertainty in his voice. "More of Galbatorix's forces?" Orik growled. "No, didn't look to be of Galbatorix, but something else." Eragon then heard saphira. Something flies in the sky above us. Her vision was focused on a strange silver object flying between the two armies.

Above, the predator drone flew in a full circle between the two groups as it's sensors and such tracked all heat signatures. Until one contact being a sapphire blue dragon began getting a little too close. "Crap." The operator muttered as he began to deploy evasive maneuvers.

Eragon watched as the strange creature began to make a hard turn in an effort to get away. Saphira gave chase as if it were prey to her. What was strange was how it flew. Not a single one of its wings flapped, yet it began to gain altitude with ease. Saphira however was faster as she began to close the gap. However some sort of eye under it's head spun around and saw her, prompting it to pull up and perform a loop over her and began flying back down behind her.

It's smaller, but much more maneuverable than I. Saphira admitted as she made a more violent chase after the thing. Eragon attempted to reach out to it's conscious, only to find the most shocking encounter he couldn't imagine. There was no consciousness, it was like a lifeless shell, yet it flew as if it were perfectly alive. Something didn't sit well with him. Saphira, I can't find any life in that thing, I'm not liking this. But that's impossible, his dragon responded. All things must have life to live.

She growled in frustration as it dodged her again by pulling a sharp left and began to fly down rapidly. Towards the Varden camp. Saphira it's heading for the Varden, after it. Eragon advised with worry as Saphira began to dive after it. Then it did the most surprising thing. Balls of fire began to release from it's flank as it created a huge amount of smoke, and the flames were so bright, temporarily blinding Eragon and Saphira. As it stopped, it then pulled up as it left the rider and dragon flying straight towards the camp.

Eragon felt Saphira panic as she attempted to pull up from the dive. She flew over the Varden camp as her claws began scraping the ground. She made a cry of shock as she lost control and tumbled on the surface. Before she could go far, she managed to steady herself and come to stop by digging her claws into the surface. Saphira, you ok? Eragon's dragon replied with a puff of smoke from her nostrils. I'm fine. But my pride has been hurt. He felt a bit of embarrassment from her as she was bested by that strange creature and crashed into the ground at the end of her chase.

Several archers fired off a few arrows some hit but just bounced off harmlessly. They both looked up as the creature did one more circle before flying away to the East. Saphira was about to pursue before Eragon convinced her not to. Next time we encounter, I'll show it the full fury of a dragon. You'll get your chance Saphira but the scouts said something else approaches. Then let us prepare for what may be coming.

Alagaësia plains…

The convoy had a bit of a change in course as the enemy army ended up meeting a possible Surdan force by the Jiet River as intel reported.

Lelei was explaining the current landscape to the colonel who was writing down notes and stuff. "And so, this land is known as the Burning Plains?" The female magician nodded. "Not many travel there, for it is covered with large amounts of fire. Many die traveling there." The fire shouldn't be a problem since their vehicles were made of metal. "How the hell could one even want to fight in such a place? The colonel questioned. "It's like trying to fight in a volcano."

A buzzing sound came from ahead as the MQ-1 Predator drone flew over them, after being chased by a blue dragon. As it flew back East, two MQ-9 Reapers came flying over from base armed with missiles, after that last encounter.

Itami leaned against his seat as his elbow stuck out the side window. Giving a loud yawn. Kurata has his eyes focused out in front of him as he drove the Humvee among the other vehicles. The white dragon would once in a while begin nudging his shoulder while sending him the same message. Hungry.

"Not now." He told the reptile. "I can't keep feed you especially when I'm driving a car." The dragon made an upset growl as it slumped back. At least it under stood human language. Hicks decided to pull out his package of beef jerky as he handed one to the grey one. The white cane over and made a begging look as would a dog seeing its own holding food. Hicks just shook his head and tossed his piece to the white which caught it in it's jaws. He then pulled out another piece, leaving only one left in the package. The convoy came to a sudden stop as they reached their destination. The Burning Plains.

Colonel opened the radio channel to the whole convoy. "Ladies and dibshits, we've arrived. Welcome to the burning plains." Burning plains? More like plains of Hell. Tongues of fire shot out and danced among the fiery terrain. Up ahead were two groups. The Broddring Empire, and the possible Surdan forces. From the coalition's perspective, the Surdans were outmatched by the Empire. Good thing they brought some artillery with them.

A large safe path lead to the Surdan camp, and on that path, waited several armed troops and a large blue dragon. So they knew we were coming? Must have some pretty good scouts for that.

The colonel began giving a new set of orders. "Broadsword-01 and 02, we're heading out, provide us escort. Itami, with my vehicle."

The otaku Lieutenant replied. "Yes sir." He motioned for Kurata to drive forward and the Sergeant did so, pulling up next to the Colonel's Humvee. The two K21s rolled forward and provided support for the two four-wheel drives.

Eragon watched from besides Saphira as he watched the strange objects approach. He was able to see it more clearly due to his transformation at Du Weldenvarden, and was able to make out what looked to be, horseless carriages made of metal. As well as strange creatures with a short thin snout. He relayed it back to Ayra who had the same puzzled look as him.

Several archers drew their bows back and took aim at the alien objects. Said objects then came to a stop not too far from them. Bright light seemed to come out from the front yet there were no signs of any fire.

Fredric called out to the things, "To what or who you are, show yourselves and state your intentions!" A few seconds later, several doors opened on the side of the carriages as a woman with hair that looked to be dyed blue stepped out. As did several men in attires of different mixes of green. They began walking forward at a slow pace while holding weird black sticks in their hands.

The men of Surda and Varden tensed as the figures came closer. Eragon attempted to reach out to their minds and was met by a very durable shield shield surrounding their minds. He couldn't find any weakness in it. Breaking it would prove difficult.

I don't like them. Saphira announced through their mental link. They smell strange, as if nothing makes sense anymore. That confused Eragon as he had no idea what she meant. As they got closer, Eragon could see strange emblems on their shoulders, none like he ever seen.

The largest of the men stood forward with a stern, serious face. "You people of Surda?" He asked. The Varden and Surdan soldiers looked around confusingly before Fredric answered, "We are of the Varden and Surda! To whom am I speaking to?"

The man just grinned as if he was planning something. "Just a foreign coalition who may have a common enemy with you!" The answer was of confusion, and shock. They claimed to be foreigners, could they be from the land humans originated from? What are they doing here? What purpose do they have against Galbatorix?

"Do you say your foreign, and you have a common enemy with us?" Fredric asked the man who just held out his hands and said, "Isn't that want I just said? And by the look of things, you seem to be heavily outnumbered fourth thousand, to a hundred thousand estimate!"

Alarms rose as he knew of their predicament. "How is it that you know of that?!" Fredric demanded getting into a defensive stance. Several other Varden and Surdan troops did so as well. Saphira began snarling as Eragon drew Zar'roc. The strange men lifted their black sticks as if aiming, but the man upfront used a guestered that made them lower them.

"Well, we were watching the area from above, before your dragon decided to chase our eyes in the sky away!" Eragon began connecting the dots before it was him who spoke this time. "That was you, with the winged creature!?" The man smirked. "Seems someone's done their homework. Yes kid, that was us, or specifically, an MQ-1 Predator reconnaissance drone. You're lucky that overgrown iguana didn't scratch it or someone would be owing us a lot of money for the damage!" Saphira hissed angrily at the name the human just gave her. An overgrown iguana? I'll show him an overgrown iguana. Eragon was surprised how the man was even brave enough to insult his dragon like that.

"Speaking of which, two MQ-9 Reaper drones will be flying over us so, get your damn pet under control or we're gonna be having problems!" Eragon could feel Saphira's anger as it was boiling with rage. Meanwhile most looked up and long behold, two more of the flying beasts were there.

"You claim to have the capability of commanding such creatures, but what makes you believe we can simply trust you?" Fredric asked. The man simply said, "You can't, at least not yet! But we're offering a lot of firepower on your side, and it's one time offer. Accept our assistance, or we can simply leave you to your own devices!" Fredric thought for a moment before replying, "I must speak with my leader before such choices are made!"

The man nodded as he simply stood there waiting. Fredric made his way back to Nasuada as the rest waited patiently, still on edge. "Such a strange man, even I wouldn't dare insult a dragon in such a manner." Orik commented as he noted the nerves the guys had to pull something like that off. Ayra was one to respond. "He is a fool for such words. Nothing more."

Eragon still could figure out these people. He tried probing their minds again only to meet the same steel barrier from before. Fredric eventually returned with news. "Nasuada and king Orrin would like to speak with you!" He announced. "But be weary, for any form of hostility is found or shown, we will kill you!" The man nodded. "Seems fair enough." He said as all the soldiers began moving forward.

"Only you! Your men must stay behind!" Fredric said before they could move any further. "I need at least two of my troops to act as my escorts. No exceptions!" The man challenged. Fredric nodded. "Very well!"

Kilgariff pointed around a US marine and a Korean soldier and they began walking. As they drew near, Saphira hissed at the man who insulted her in an attempt to scare him. He didn't even flinch as his two body guards held those black sticks up, aiming it at one person, then at another. Orik tensed as the stick was pointed at him then at Eragon, then at Arya, then at a Varden member. Fredric ordered them to follow him as well as four Varden members to the camp.

Hicks watched from through the windshield as the colonel moved out of sight. His eyes set on the dragon up front and an idea popped into his head. He opened the door before telling the gray dragon to stay inside.

As he reached outside, several of the Varden and Surdans had their attention on him. "Hey, can I ask you guys a question?!" He shouted over to them. Saphira picked up his scent, there was the familiar strange sent but also something else. Something familiar.

Hearing no answer Hicks went on with it. "What do you know about dragons?!" Eragon was confused by the question. Ayra was the one to answer. "Why would you want to know anything?!" Hicks clapped his hands together and asked, "Mind if I show you guys something?"

Kilgariff looked around the camp as the man escorting him led him to a red tent. "Your men must remain outside, they only wish to speak with you." Fredric advised. The colonel nodded and told his men to wait outside before entering.

"So, you're the man who has us all on edge?" Nasuada questioned as she looked the man over. "Either way ma'am, an encounter with each other would result in the same way. By the way you may call me Colonel."

Orrin was next to speak, "Fredric told us you say you're foreign. Are you from the land humans originated from?" The colonel shook his head, "No I believe not."

"Then where is it that you come from?" The colonel began telling them about his world and the portal the Broddring empire made, and the coalition now at war with them.

The two were a bit confused on some parts. "Such events are hard to believe." Nasuada said as she had a bit of trouble believing the events the colonel told her. "I would be the same if I were you ma'am."

Orrin jumped to a new topic. "You came to us for a reason, that reason I know not." He got straight to the point. "So I must ask, what may that reason be?"

"We are at war with the Broddring Empire, but we know so little of them, or your world. Yet you are at war with them, but your numbers are small compared to them. We share a common enemy, so why not form some kind of alliance with one another?"

Orrin and Nasuada looked at each other and back at the colonel. "How many troops have you brought with you?" Nasuada asked the colonel suspiciously. "Only a couple dozen wait outside with me, a few thousand remain at our base." He answered. Orrin gave out a laugh at that. "And what can only a few thousand do against Galbatorix?"

The colonel shook his head. "It's not just all about numbers, it's also the training of the soldier and their capabilities." He pulled out a tablet and set it on the table. "Tell me, are you able to see the enemy from a bird's eye view and track every living being?" The two leaders didn't comment. "Well we can." He then activated it and pulled up the feed from the two reaper drones.

Nasuada and Orrin were in shock as they were looking at Galbatorix's army from above like a bird. "What kind of foul sorcery is this!?" Orrin bellowed. "This is no kind of sorcery, it's pure science and technology. Currently, after your dragon chased away our MQ-1 Predator drone, two MQ-9 Reaper drones are flying above us, and this is what they see." He switched to the other drone and showed it's feed. "What about being able to hit the enemy from range with great accuracy? We can do that with our weapons. What about being able to communicate with one another from miles apart, we all can do that. What about being able to make weapons of mass destruction by the minute? We can do that. What about holding the power to literally destroy the entire world multiple times? We…have that."

Nasuad and Orrin were a bit speechless at such capabilities being told. The colonel continued. "We don't really have to be in an alliance, we would still be fighting the Empire, and those who stand in our way, or interfere. This alliance is to make sure we don't have any misunderstandings or needless blood shed."

The two leaders talked among each other for a while before coming back to the colonel. "We will accept your assistance, but we must have proof of such capabilities first." Orrin stated. "We require a demonstration in battle if we are to believe what you say."

The colonel grinned. "Good thing we brought some firepower with us. You won't be disappointed." He promised. Nasuada nodded. "Then go, bring your troops and do what you must to settle in."

Eragon was without words, Ayra was speechless, and Saphira was wide eyed with a mix of emotion. Orik was still trying to recover from being jumped on…by a young dragon. "So yeah, you have any tips or advice on what to do?" Hicks asked as Eragon just watched the two young dragons wrestle each other. Finally he managed to speak. "Where did you find them?"

Kurata answered that. "Well uh, we were on a recon mission when we came across a tower out in the middle of nowhere. Looked inside, found two eggs we thought were gems and there you have it."

Ayra was puzzled. Only Galbatorix had the remaining eggs, but they were red and green, not grey and white. "So yeah," Hicks said, "also when I touched the damn thing, this happened." He removed his glove and showed the mark on his palm. "Is that normal?"

Eragon's eyes went wide. "You're a rider." He stayed as he showed his gedwëy ignasia. Hicks and Kurata looked at each other before Kurata showed his below his knuckles. "You too have it. What does it mean?" Eragon began explaining to them of the gedwëy ignasia being the mark of a Dragon Rider, and it's meaning in the ancient language. "Shining palm" or in Kurata's case, "Shining Knuckles".

Saphira's interest was on the two dragons below her as she sniffed at them and made a humming sound. They are quite young, but are true dragons. No tricks are present. The two dragons looked up at their towering blue kin as if they were looking at a guardian.

"So what, the second we touched them and gained this shining palm," Hicks held out his affected hand, "we became part of this Dragon Rider movement which has been long dead, because Galbatorix decided to wipe out the dragon race?" Eragon nodded.

"Yeah that doesn't work for us." Hicks stated as he crossed his arms. Ayra spoke up. "You don't have a choice, you've become bonded to a dragon, have you not? Once you've bonded with one, it's permanent."

"I think the whole idea is awesome and all," Kurata admitted. "but my American friend here is right. We belong to our governments and continue to do so as long as we serve in the armed forces. It's big enough of a responsibility protecting your people from outside threats."

Orik was the one to ask the next question. "Why would you pass down the opportunity of such a great position over being a slave to a ruler who conscripted you?" Hicks raised his eyebrow. "Who said I was a slave to my government. I wasn't forced from my home to be a soldier. I volunteered, all of us volunteered. We don't conscript people into soldiers where we're from anymore." He spat with frustration at the dwarf.

Eragon was puzzled. "Then, how could your ruler maintain an army against outside threats?" Johnson came out and began chuckling. "You'd be surprised by how many people like us would be looking for revenge when some assholes decide to kill three-thousand innocents of your nation, in your home land." He recalled the 9/11 event that made him sign up as a marine. "It's what got me here." He pulled out a cigar, lit it, and began smoking.

Before it could drag on, the colonel came back with Fredrick, Nasuada, and Orrin who gave very surprised looks at seeing the dragons. "Couldn't resist showing them your pets?" The colonel called out, making Saphira growl. This man has a death wish, I swear it. She said to Eragon through their mental link, making him chuckle.

"Lieutenant Itami!" No response. "1st Lieutenant Yoji Itami!" Again no response. Lelei, who was with them, opened the side door showing the Lieutenant fast asleep. "Damn it." The colonel cursed, "Someone wake him up already!" Hicks made a mischievous grin as he went to the back, and came back with a shotgun. The coalition members knew what was up while the Varden and Surdans were confused. Hicks aimed at the ground and shouted, "RISE AND SHINE LIEUTENANT!" and fired.

A sound bang went off as the Varden members flinched from the loud noise, while the Lieutenant stumbled out of the Humvee wide awake.

"Several LOLS."

Itami regained his bearing as he saw his teammates laughing hilariously at him. "Fuck you all!" He shouted angrily as he gave them the middle finger.

"Lieutenant, make your lazy ass useful and radio the rest of the group, we're moving in!" Itami got back onto his feet as he dusted himself off. He reached the radio in the Humvee. "All units be advised, we have the green light."

"Copy that. We're making our way over now."

Later…

The Varden watched in awe as the massive tanks maneuvered into position in front of the camp. Just like with that thing called a 'drone' Eragon and Saphira encountered, they had no consciousness beside four human minds protected by steel barriers. More intimidating bunch was the two K9 Thunders with their guns aimed up. Some kind of siege weapon.

Instead of setting up inside the Varden camp, the coalition forces established operations just outside upfront as they set up small tents and established stationary weapons like .50cals and mortars behind sandbags walls.

Orik was impressed by the Foriegn human soldiers as they moved in a very disciplinary and fairly quick manner, almost like ants in an ant colony.

Two soldiers were in ghillie suits colored black to match the terrain, one holding a sniper, and the other with an M16 and a spotters scope. The two men rushed out into the burning plains with a very special mission. Cause hell for the enemy.

"I still don't see how just two men can kill several of their leaders." Nasuada declared as she didn't understand the concept of a sniper. "Sending just two men towards a hundred thousand is suicide." The colonel just chuckled. "Who said they were heading into the camp?"

The two men jumped over a pool of fire and rushed through the hellish terrain. Eventually they came to a stop and sprawled down onto the ground. The Japanese sniper set up a bipod as the American spotted deployed the scope.

"Colonel, this is Assassin-actual, in position."

"Roger that Assassin, establish your scope cam so we can give our 'friends' a demonstration."

"Roger, establishing now."

The colonel connected the pad to the soldier out there and showed his point of view with the sniper.

"We have a connection, begin whenever you are ready. Remember, high rank leaders only, cease all fire on any regular troops. Try and take a few magicians as well if you can." And so it began.

"Got a contact, guy looks to be shouting orders, 30 degrees north." The Japanese soldier adjusted his aim until he came across a very important looking dude. "Target acquired."

A suppressed gunshot went off as the dude's head exploded the next second. It took a moment for the troops to realize what just happened and start panicking.

"Looks like we got them riled up, next target. Three, three, zero. In a tent with it's flap open." "Got him."

Another bullet was sent off as the unfortunate bastard's head exploded. "On target." "New contact direct north, he's running."

Nasuada and Orrin watched as yet another head exploded from seemingly nothing. "This is the work of a sniper." The colonel explained. "It's a weapon that uses a huge build up of pressure to shoot out a metal projectile at super high speeds, at great range."

They watched as the sights focused on another high ranking target and his head exploded. "So you fight your enemies from a distance? Where's the honor in a fight such as that?" Orrin questioned.

"Where we're from," The colonel answered. "there is no honor in warfare. Only death. We don't fight for glory or any of that meaningless nonsense. We fight to win and end wars."

"Got a possible magician, dude North, North-East. Got some voodoo robes on him." The magician had little time to react as a bullet was hurtled straight at him, punching through his neck and killing him. "Tango down."

"No new additional contacts on sight."

"Copy. Colonel this is Assassin-actual, no contacts on sight, we're pulling out."

"Roger solid copy. We'll get the welcome mat ready for you."

"Understood, Assassin-actual out." The two soldiers backed up and began packing their things before making the trek back to base.

Ayra had been watching the foriegn soldiers for a while. Just because Nasuada and Orrin trusted them for now doesn't mean she would. Though she was surprised to see quite a lot of women in their ranks, strong too as a small female human had beaten up a Varden soldier because he called her a dwarf.

"The fuck you lookin' at, huh!?" Shiro gave the same soldier a deadly look that made him flinch and jump back. "Yeah," She hissed. "that's what I thought."

Eragon watched from besides Saphira as the soldiers began setting up some sort of lack device on a short metal stand with legs. Slowly, they connected the two pieces as one guy sat on the ground behind it and pulled something that made a loud click.

I don't like them. Saphira informed her rider. What about the dragons? You learn anything from them? Saphira took awhile before making a response. They are very young, maybe a few days out of hatching. But they are nice to be around. Eragon looked over at the white one which was sitting behind Kurata who was reading a manga. Eragon was confused as he seemed to be reading backwards.

The grey was currently walking around blind by a ballistic helmet it stole from it's rider. "There you are you troublesome little shit." Hicks said as he plucked it from it's head. It looked up at him as he reattached his helmet then but on a pair of ballistic sunglasses.

The two men that went out there returned as Nasuada, Orrin, and the Colonel exited the tent. "Yeah, we can give you a demonstration of our bigger guns another time soon." "Then we look forward to it Colonel."

Nasuada and Orris split ways from the colonel as he addressed the two troops that have returned. "Excellent job out there. Textbook style." The two men saluted. "Appreciated sir!" "Good, now get some rest while you can." He dismissed them as he walked up to one of the horses carriages with some sort of tall pole sticking out.

"Excuse me mister!" The colonel turned to see the boy with the elf ears. "May I help you?"

"If I may ask, are you the leader of this whole group with us?" He nodded. "Yes I'm their commanding officer. Why are you askin'?" The colonel responded.

"I was wondering if I can talk to you about two of your troops for a minute?" The colonel thought for a moment before giving his answer, "You got me, now start talking." Eragon began going over the two soldiers with the dragons and about the dragon rider thing which brought a lot of confusion, and doubt to the colonel.

"So, you're telling me that, two of my men, the ones with the two lizards," Eragon flinched as he heard Saphira growl from her spot. "are in this sort of bond, made by a pact between dragons and elves?" Eragon nodded. "And they are now part of these so called 'Dragon Riders' who were like peace keepers here, before some asshole we're against, wiped them out?" Again, Eragon nodded. "So, what does this have to do with me?" Eragon began going over what the two men told him of belonging to their government and asking if there was maybe a work around.

The colonel sighed. "I'm not the one you should be asking here." He said to Eragon's disappointment. "But I'll contact General Hazama to see if he can work something out." A bit of hope came to Eragon. "Until then kid, this dragon rider stuff, is a no go for them." Eragon nodded. "Very well, I await an answer." He turned to leave before, "Can I get their names at least?"

"The one wearing the same gear as me is Corporal Hicks, and the other is a Japanese dude, Sergeant Kurata." Eragon nodded before leaving.

I hope you don't consider bringing those two to Du Weldenvarden. Saphira said through their mental link. You can't possibly hate them? Like me, they are also riders. We're kind of the same now. Saphira blew smoke from her nostrils. We are from this land, they are foriengn and come from another. They are not the same as you. At least give them a chance Saphira. His dragon thought for a moment before responding. We'll see. My opinion on them, hangs in the events that take place in the future.

A meow brought Kuwahara's attention to below him as a cat began rubbing against his boot. "Hmm, off for there to be a cat out here." He commented as Angela came over. "Oh he ain't no ordinary cat old fella." The 50 year old Japanese man looked up at the witch. "That werecat right there, can be a bit fierce sometimes." Kuwahara looked back down at the cat that was now headed over to Angela. "A werecat eh?"

Broddring camp…

The General looked around at the many dead commanders and magicians that were supposed to help in the assault. Now, they lay lifeless with huge holes in their heads or other areas of their body. "How could this have happened?!" He looked at one of the remaining commanders who shook his head. "We know not what could have caused this. But we believe it to be of another force we saw allied with the Varden."

"A new ally?" The general questioned. "How many have they brought?" The commander shook his head. "Only under a hundred were sighted by scouts. We believe them to be some kind of mercenaries."

The general growled angrily as he looked at their casualties. "When shall our messenger be ready?"

"We May send our response now sir."

"Good, we attack tomorrow by morning, ready the troops for battle!"

Varden camp, later…

"So what we have no support available?" The colonel asked through the radio. "Affirmative, all support is unavailable." General Hazama reporter. "But we just had an American and Korean General come through with some helicopters and a gunship. They're undergoing reassembly and should be ready by tomorrow."

"Got a contact approaching, single horse back."

"Do not engage, must be some messenger or something."

"Copy that, standing down."

The tanks adjusted their aim as a lone horse rider approached the camp, and came to a stop. Saphira haunted behind the coalition forces as Eragon saw the lone soldier. "By refusing King Galbatorix's generous terms of surrender, you chose death as your fate. No more shall we negotiate. The hand of friendship has turned into a fist of war! If any of you still regar-," He never finished as a pissed off Korean soldier shouted, "And since when is attacking our capital ever been a hand of friendship you piece of fucking shit!" He popped his knuckles in anger.

The envoy just produced a sack and revealed a severed head. "Tomorrow, you shall suffer the doom of your herald." He then tossed it towards the Varden camp,revealing it to be their envoy, or what was left of him. The colonel saw it as a war crime and wasn't having any of it.

"Someone shoot the bastard." He said into the radio.

Just as Saphira was about to roar out, a loud bang went off as a streak of light shot towards the enemy envoy, punching through his head and killing him. The stallion was frightened by the noise it began going wild before its rider's riders dead body slumped off as it ran off.

Everyone turned to the source of that shot to see the female Korean Ji-ju, holding a K2 rifle with a smoking barrel. Eragon looked at the smoking ending of the stick, realizing what just happened. Those weapons, have the ability to kill from range, and all these soldiers had one.

The ability to kill in such a way amazed him, yet also scared him as he realized how close they were for those being used against them. Saphira noticed. I doubt those little light shooters can do much harm to me. Eragon wasn't convinced as he looked at the siege weapons. Those must have a similar concept but more powerful.

Some of soldiers went up to the female Korean and held out a fist, which she softly punched in an admiring way, as if they were praising her on the shot.

"Alright people!" The colonel grabbed his troops' attention. "It seems our enemy was stupid enough to kindly warn us of their plans! Finish setting up everything and be ready for a fight by tomorrow! clear!?"

"SIR YES SIR!" The troops chanted all at once as they set to work.

Next day…

The sun had slowly risen over the blackened horizon as smoke clouded the sky. The Varden and Surdans were preparing for the battle, while the coalition forces were prepared the whole time. Ayra had to admit she was impressed to see the humans stay up all night, without looking tired. Well most of them anyway as some dozed off, often leading to them being woken in a rude manner by their comrades. It was a bit, amusing to say the least. One thing was for certain they were not like the average human.

Earlier, a large group of Urgals of the Bolvek tribe lead by Nar Garzhvog showed up, nearly erupting into a fight as the coalition had a not so friendly encounter with them before. It was settled as they showed no ill intentions and were against the empire as well, declaring they wanted Galbatorix's blood.

Hicks looked back at the Urgals from his position as he thought to himself, Jeez, how many people did that dictator piss off?

He felt a nudge on his arm as 'his dragon' was finishing a small mouse it found. "Can I help you?" Worry. He felt it's emotion as he rubbed it's head to try and calm it. "We'll be fine." He assured, then muttered, "Just gotta kill around a hundred thousand assholes."

"So your village was attacked by Urgals?" Nasuada questioned as Lelei brought the subject up. "Yes, this was when we met them," She said referring to the coalition. "We evacuated but the Urgal hoad caught up with us and began slaughtering our people. Many more would have died if those soldiers hadn't showed up." She looked at the Kull with a stink eye as he made his response, "That is none of my doing human. Another tribe I believe is responsible." Lelei was about to argue before a commotion interrupted them. The colonel entered as he looked at the leaders and commanders. "The enemy is preparing to move out."

FOB Main…

The sound of propellers engines deafened the area as two dozen helicopters of Korean AH-1s, American UH-60s, and Japanese AH-64s began their start up sequence. But the noisiest was of the AC-130J finishing up preparations, and two other smaller fix-winged aircraft.

"The strike group has just reported enemy engagement so expect to be going in guns blazing!" General Hazama informed the Korean General of the situation according to the last report from them. "Understood, we'll make sure we roll out the red carpet for our boys!" He yelled over the sound of the rotors. "Also be careful of your targets! Most of the Varden and Surdan forces will be engaging the enemy in close quarters combat!" "Duly noted!"

The helicopters began to take off one by another as they turned into a huge flock of aircraft. The refugees looked up in awe as the things flew over their heads. Somes soldiers hanging off the sides of the Blackhawks waved down at them as they waved back. What surprised them the most was when a creature the size of a dragon flew over their heads at incredible speed. Behind it, roared two smaller lesser beings but picked up more speed as they flew past the bigger one.

The Burning Plains…

The Broddring General looked out at the Varden camp as newcomers seemed to have taken residence with the rebels. "The time has come! For King Galbatorix!" He shouted as the men he commanded cheered. They continued to push forward as the Varden seemed to be inactive. Perhaps they caught them by surprise?

Most of the Varden commanders were outraged by the Colonel as he asked them to hold position for the moment. "This is preposterous!" Jörmundur argued, "Why should we sit back, while our enemy approaches!?" The colonel just took another puff from his cigar and turned to him. "Because we'll risk killing your troops if they engage the enemy."

"How?" The Varden commander asked. "How will you risk killing us?" The colonel didn't respond as he made a 'follow me' gesture.

Saphira was a bit grumpy as she and Eragon were told, by Nasuada to hold back, for the colonel had good reason. To her, it felt like he just wanted to annoy her. That blasted human, what gives him every right? The colonel came into view as she let off a growl at him, getting no response. Behind him were some of the Varden commanders as they walked to where those two siege weapons were set up, along with Orrin and Nasuada who were waiting, along with the Kull leader.

Being curious, Eragon followed to see what was going on. Saphira followed, seeing nothing else to do. Eragon also saw Ayra, Orik, Angela and Solembum, as well as Fredric. A few Varden members were present as well, wanting to know what was going on.

"Colonel," Nasuada addressed the American. "I hope you have a good reason for this." The colonel just blew a puff from his cigar into the air as he gave an assuring smile.

"Hyeon!" He called you the Korean artillery commander who saluted. "Reporting sir!" "Tell the boys to prepare to fire." The commander put his hand down, "Yes sir!" And rushed to tell the crews.

"Now," He turned to his 'audience' who were wanting answers. "You all are wondering why I requested you all to hold back. Well these," He gestured towards the K9 mobile artillerys. "are the reason." He then picked up a tablet that displayed the feed from one of the two Reapers. "Artillery, stand by for targeting."

Using a laser designator mounted on the camera of the drone, coordinates were put in as the cannon began to adjust to hit the target. The colonel adjusted the laser onto a catapult being towed and stopped on it. Using another control he confirmed the target and it happened.

A loud boom went off as dust kicked up everywhere. "Cough! Cough! What kind of nonsense is this?!" Orik bellowed as the Colonel just pointed at the enemy formation.

A loud whistle caught the soldiers' attention as they stopped in their tracks, trying to find the noise. Then came an explosion that destroyed one of their siege engines, and the men around it. Another whistle was heard, followed by another explosion that destroyed a ballista.

Most of the Varden and Surdans were impressed by what just happened. Now realizing they could have been victims by being out there. The colonel handed the pad to a Korean officer who began giving orders. "We won't be able to keep that up, so make sure your men are ready to charge into battle once we tell you it's safe."

The Broddring General watched in horror as the ground erupted beneath his troop formation as siege weapons were wrecked by explosions. "Impossible! Are the plains erupting around us?" The ground continued to explode as more men screamed in agony of their final moments.

Saphira watched as another one of those flying things sailed over them, though different from the one that bested her. It's small eye looking things switched around under its head like an owl as it tracked the enemy ahead of them. How can such a thing fly? She thought to herself as the thing didn't even flap its wings once. Her focus was brought out as she felt something touch her tail. Looking back was the two young dragons looking up at her.

She made a nice toothy smile on her maw as the two began to wrestle each other playfully. She could tell that the grey was a female, and the white was a male. She looked around the foriegn humans for the two riders and she found them. Both holding out those black sticks that kill from a distance.

Mortars and .50cal began firing on the Empire as they got close, only to be cut down by a hell storm of bullets and explosions.

From a distance, several winged figures began approaching from the Broddring side. Hicks spotted them and reported it. "Colonel be advised, unknown air contacts approaching from the enemy side!"

One of the UAVs managed to maneuver and gain a good visual on them, while making an artillery piece unable to fire indirectly. More of those winged creatures sighted during the attack on Seoul. "Confirmed hostiles, use the stingers to take them out."

"Copy. Get the stingers!" Hicks called out to some troops who pulled out some of the weapons from a Humvee.

Eragon looked at the flying creatures and noticed their features matched the description of something that made his bones chill. Lethrblaka. He relayed it to Saphira who was in a state of fear and anger of the things. Anger because those things killed dragons, bringing her kind to near extinction, and fear because there were so many of them.

Eragon ran up the Colonel and informed him of the lethrblaka and the ra'zac. "Yeah we noticed them, we'll deal with them easily." The colonel responded flatly. Eragon remained silent as he saw several soldiers bring out metal tubes with a box on it's side, aiming at the lethrblaka.

"Good!?"

"Backside clear!"

The missile popped out and kicked it's thruster on as it homed in on one of the targets. Eragon watched as the projectile seemed to guide itself on one of the lethrblaka. It even changed its course to avoid getting hit, but it was useless as the missile adjusted it's trajectory too and hit. It didn't kill it, but it's left wing was ruined and made useless as it began to fall to its death.

The others screeched furiously as they advanced on the Varden camp. Two however intercepted the two UAVs, forcing their operators to disengage and take evasive action, making the artillery ineffective.

"Those damn beast are now screwing with our drones." The colonel informed Nasuada and Orrin. "Tell your men, your clear to attack the enemy. We'll offer any cover we can." Another missile shot up at the lethrblaka and downed another as it plummeted to the disarrayed Broddring army.

The tank engines started as the Varden and Urgals around jumped at the constant loud noise they produced. The Varden and Surdan leaders stood with the Kull as they rallied their forces. Eragon mounted on Saphira as they both took to the sky. We need to be careful of the lethrblaka. He said through their mental link. Those soldiers seem to have them under control. She had to admit, she was grateful that they were killing off those things with their wonder weapons of some sort. Below, the Varden and Urgals began to march forwards to take the fight to their enemy. As well as those other siege weapons the foreigners brought.

The clatter of tank treads and roaring of engines was among the sounds of marching as the tanks adjusted their aim to pick out a target. One of the type-10s fired it's main gun as several enemy soldiers were killed in an explosion from the impacting shell. The M1A2 SEPv2 began to let loose with it's coaxial and remote .50cal as it pumped lead into any nearby targets. A magician attempted to kill it with fire, only to see it unscaved and pissed off as it fired a shell at him in retaliation.

Tanks came to a dead stop as they went no further, letting the army surrounding them attack those in front. The two armies then clashed as the tanks fired at hostiles around the perimeters, trying to keep the heat off their new allies as much as possible.

The two K21s and two Humvees pulled up as several coalition soldiers disembarked to engaged the enemy with bayonets in their guns. The 3rd Recon was among them. "Remember check your targets and keep dist-," Before Itami could finish, Kuribayashi made a warcry as she began charging like a madman. "ALLRIIIIIIIIIIIGHT!"

"Sigh, what a dumbass." Itami muttered. "Make sure she doesn't get herself killed!" "ROGER!"

Loud bangs went off as the modern soldiers began to fire upon the Broddring with their guns. Streaks of light tore through their ranks with ease as their armor offered little to no protection against bullets. A urgal cut down an enemy soldier as it made a war cry after. Distracted, another soldier charged from behind seeing this as an opportunity. Before his sword could strike pain came to his chest as a bayonet cut clean through his armor, into his heart. Shiro looked up at her opponent before pulling her gun back, lettin grey body drop. The urgal noticed and she made a nod as she shot at a couple of others approaching.

The two began fighting back to back as the urgal began cutting at any who got too close as the Japanese female shot at any from range. She spotted a magician about to come up with a spell but she shot him before he could finish. Two approached from her side and her gun clicked dry.

Going on the aggressive she charged at them and stabbed one of them, dodging a swing from the other and blocked another swing with her gun, causing her bayonet to break off. The two locked into position before she pulled out her side arm and unloaded bullet into his chest, killing him. She then noticed her bayonet was gone. "Aw crap!" She just managed to roll out of the way of another swing from another soldier before he was slashed by the urgal she fought besides.

Loading a fresh mag into her weapon she made a thumbs up at the urgal who looked confused by the gesture.

Hicks managed to find an outcrop he used as cover as a volley of arrows were fired on his location. A single one bounced off his helmet harmlessly as he came out of cover and fired upon them. Two Americans along with three JSDF were taking cover in a trench they found. One of the Americans peeked over with a shotgun and blasted a soldier who came too close.

Nasuada observes the tactics of the two forces. Her and Orrin's forces stayed in the open area exposed to the enemy, while the coalition forces moved from cover to cover, making it harder for Galbatorix's soldiers to strike at, while they were wiped by the coalition's ar superior weaponry.

Fire rained upon an approaching group of soldiers as A blue dragon flew above them. Eragon took aim at a magician with his new bow and managed to strike him in the head. So far, almost all of the enemy magicians were gone. Something was off however, none of the archers dared to fire at him. He managed to tear into the mind of the last spellcaster before he commuted suicide. ...ordered not to kill you or the dragon…not to kill you or the dragon.

The thought ran through Eragon's head before he realized that Galbatorix must want them alive. But why? We've made it clear we support the Varden.

Lost in thought, a lethrblaka began to sneak up on them from the dark clouds. By the time either of them noticed, it was already within striking distance. Trying to turn, Saphira opened her mouth to try and blast it with fire, but before that could happen, blood began to spit out as over a hundred streaks of light tore through it. Leaving them surprised.

BBRRRRRRRRRRRRRRTT!

The loud sound almost made their hearing go into just ringing, as their ears in pain, they almost didn't notice something fly past them at high speed. After recovering, they saw it. A grey body with long straight wings with two large cylinders on it flanks with what looked like a sort of tail fins. Another one similar flew by as it's head showed a face with really sharp teeth, two long fangs protruding from its lower jaw with a black small cylinder between. However, it looked painted, and it's head was transparent, showing a humanoid figure in some sort of mask who looked at them before it passed by with a ferocious whining sound.

The sound caught the attention of the soldiers on the ground, the coalition knew it well as they looked up to see two A-10s fly over.

"Colonel, this is Striker-31 and Stiker-32 on station to provide CAS." The radio chirped as the American made a grin. "Loud and clear, target the enemy force on the outskirts, avoid the engagement area for you Amy take out a few friendlies."

"Striker-31 good copy, CAS inbound."

The two jets circled around as they lined up on the Broddring forces who watched in mixed emotions of the aircraft racing after them. Smoke emitted from their chins as the ground began to be bombarded by 30mm bullets. Followed with that terrifying sound.

BBRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRTT!

BRRRRRRT!

Many of the coalition forces made time to cheat out at the two birds as they began doing their job. The last lethrblaka was distracted by the two birds. It didn't notice the missile screaming towards it before it was too late. Said missile didn't come from the ground, but from the sky as the two MQ-9 Reapers returned from the clouds and began to circle the battle. Using the arsenal they were given, they both released a Hellfire that streamed towards the enemy troops.

The Broddring General watched as the two objects impacted on his troops, causing a huge explosion. "Wh-What kind of power is this?" He watched helplessly as his troops stood no chance against this enemy.

Orik watched as Saphira landed among the mass of friendly troops and Eragon jumped off, drawing zar'roc as he swiped at a charging soldier. Saphira breathes fire at a large mass approaching them as they slowly burn to their deaths.

"Aten incoming!" He heard a coalition soldier shout. What was an 'Aten'?

BBRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRTTT!

His question was answered as one of those birds flew over after wasting more of Galbatorix's army with it's weapon. That must be an Aten.

"Gotta love the air support those things can bring eh!" He heard from behind him the American named Hicks call out. "What kind of creature," Eragon pointed at one of the birds. "are those things?"

The corporal chuckled as he began to answer the rider. "They ain't no creature, nor are they alive. Those are war machines built to fly!"

BRRRRRRRRT! BBRRRRRRRBRRRRRRBRRRT!

One of them completed another gun run as it pulled up preparing for another, and it's last strike.

BBRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRTTrrrrrrrrrrr!

The gun continued to spin but didn't shoot as it ran out of ammo. "Strike-31 this is Striker-32 out of ammo. RTBing." "Strike-31 to Striker-32 solid copy. I'm almost dry myself. See you at the base." "Copy that, pulling out."

One of the two began to break off while dumping flares and flew back to base, having served its purpose for as long as possible.

"Where's it going?" Eragon asked as it seemed to be running away. "Probably out of ammo!" Hicks answered. "Must have used it all up so now it can't attack the enemy!"

The Varden leaders watched the metal bird fly away into the distance as the other followed behind it.

Nasuada had really underestimated them. They really had power. Absolute power at their hands. "Colonel be advised, Deathbringer-12 in the air above, the rest of the Calvary is not far behind." She heard from the colonels black box he used to hear and send messages to and from his troops. "Good copy, stay clear near friendly forces within the engagement area." He responded as he looked up to see an AC-130 flying over the battle just above the drones.

"Crew engage all enemies clear of friendly forces! Weapons free, go loud!"

At once, the 25mm, 40mm, and 105mm opened up. The Broddring soldiers were decimated as streaks of light rained down from above from some sort of dragon sized creature.

Eragon looked up at the thing. In size comparison, it was probably as big as Saphira, if not bigger than her. And I thought I was the strongest being here, He heard from her. but these, they make me feel so, small. She admitted as it made the ground explode with streaks of light.

"Colonel be advised we have a new group of unknown contacts approaching." The gunship reported as it sent it's feed to the Colonels pad. "Familiar to you?" He asked Nasuada as he showed her. Her eyes widened as in zoomed in. "It's the dwarves, they have arrived to help us!" The colonel nodded as he gave orders. "All units be advised, new contacts approaching are friendly, do not fire. I repeat, do not fire upon."

The gun crew disengaged and continued their work on the enemy which was now down to around forty thousand.

King Hrothgar looked up at the massive creature as it rained fire and death from above against the Empire. He was confused as it seems another force has joined in with the Varden and began to dwindle the Empires numbers. He seemed to have missed a lot of the battle.

A trumpet sounded from the East as the dwarves made themselves visible and began charging into the fight. "THE DWARVES ARE HERE! NOW WE SHALL FINISH THEM OFF!" Orrin shouted as they're chances of victory have now increased again.

Eragon climbed atop of Saphira as he saw them approach. Leading them was King Hrothgar. The dwarf king saw Eragon and Saphira and raised his ancient war hammer Volund in greeting. In response, Eragon yelled at the top of his lungs returning the gesture.

"What did you see?" Cried Orik. "Take heart that Hrothgar is here! As well as almost every single dwarf behind him!"

"Friends of yours?" Kurata asked as he fired away with his battle rifle. "Yes, he's our friend!" Eragon responded as an arrow whizzed by his head. "Boy, this is becoming quite a party!" Kurata said as he cut down an approaching enemy with his bayonet.

Just as Eragon was about to charge forward with the Varden, a soldier cried out, "A ship! A ship approaches from the Jiet River!"

"Gunfighter-11 to 16, we're approaching the target area."

"Good copy. Angels, Hunters, be advised we're approaching the target area."

"Angel-23, copy."

A large squadron of AH-1s, AH-64, and UH-60s flew in organized formation as they came across the Burning Plains. Several soldiers sat waiting in the Blackhawks for deployment.

"General, we're approaching the target area!"

The Korean General nodded at the American pilot. "Good, start playing the music, let's make some noise!"

Play: Ride of the Valkyries–Apocalypse Now

The speakers mounted on the sides of the choppers began to blast out it's music as the soldiers began final checks on their weapons before dropping in.

"What hell are you doing sitting on your helmet?"

"I wanna hold on to my testicles thank you!"

Gunfire and the sound of metal clashing was the only thing that could be heard from the surrounding area as the dwarves joined in the fight, now getting familiar with their new allies.

Then the sound of music caused a momentary pause as the combatants looked around for the source. Then the Cavalry arrived. Several Apaches began raining hell with rockets as the Cobras let loose with mini gun fire.

"All units we have multiple targets on sight, engage at will, but keep distance from allied forces."

Some of the Varden took a moment to look up at the flying objects as they rained fire from above, all the while playing some kind of music. A huge wind picked up near them as they watched some fly low to the ground and deploy more foriegn soldiers from ropes. Orrin watched in awe as an Apache began clearing up the area around his troops, relieving the tension on them.

Nasuada watched from the distance beside the colonel as the flying marvels began wiping out huge numbers quickly. This was no ordinary kingdom, this was a kingdom of capabilities far more than anything anyone thought possible.

Moral finally broke for the enemy soldiers as they realized they had no chance at any victory. "RETREAT!" Several men began to run as the General shouted at them angrily. "FIGHT BACK! FIGHT BACK YOU COWARDS!" Minigun fire from one of the Blackhawks cut him down before he could say more.

"Colonel, enemy forces are in retreat sir!"

"Cut them off, give them the chance to surrender and prepare to take POWs."

"Yes sir!"

Explosions made the retreating soldiers come to a complete stop as the helicopters flew over and held position in front of them.

The music came to a stop as a new voice sounded. "Attention enemy force! If you surrender now we will not attack! I repeat, if you surrender now we will not attack!"

Eragon watched the flying machines from atop of Saphira, wondering what was going on. Then, the Empire soldiers began to drop their weapons and hold their hands over their heads. They're surrendering. At least they're merciful.

Several soldiers began to repel from the Blackhawks with rifles aimed and approaching their captives. Victory had been achieved, and it was an easy win.

From the distance, two lone figures studied the area as the army they were to support, had fallen to a new combatant. Galbatorix will not be pleased by this. There's nothing more we can do, attacking could be suicide. Let's us leave quickly, before we're spotted.