He and his dragon, Saphira, must travel to Ellesméra, the land of the elves for more training in magic and swordsmanship, the vital skills of a Dragon Rider. Even though he's heading off on the journey of a lifetime, chaos and betrayal plague him at every turn, and Eragon doesn't know who to trust. And while he's off on his own journey, his cousin Roran must fight a new battle back home in Carvahall - one that puts Eragon in even graver danger.

Will the king's dark hand strangle all resistance? Eragon may not escape with even his life . . .