The Truth About Lies (An Inheritance Cycle Fanfiction)

The Final Battle

Tabatha, be careful. I know only what you have told me of your brother, but he does not seem like the kind to fight fairly, Eragon said, settling into his own stance across from Murtagh.

No, he does not. You watch yourself too, Eragon. I don't know what's going on with Murtagh, but something is wrong. He assured me he would and then withdrew contact. I could feel some of the Eldunarí pressing close by, in case I needed their strength, and I was glad for that. I might need it against Léod. We had never fought before, so I could not be prepared for what he would do. This time, he would not attack me while my back was turned; this time, he'd have to face me head on.

I tried to stay focused on the fight before me, but with Eragon and Murtagh so close, I was finding it extremely difficult. Focus, Tabatha. Your life is on the line. You must defeat him.

My brother didn't keep me waiting long. He struck first, the dark edge of his blade swinging towards me in a wide arc, but I blocked it easily. My shield was small, but it was sturdy and strengthened with wards. Léod's was larger, but that also meant it was more cumbersome and harder to maneuver. But his sword had greater reach than mine, not to mention he was taller than I was by about six inches. I was not weak, by any means, but the height advantage would be difficult to surmount. He attacked again, this time with a slash at my legs that I dodged just in time. My greaves would have protected me from any lasting harm, but the bruises would be painful all the same.

I didn't want to attack yet though. If I could watch him for a few more minutes, then maybe I'd be able to gauge more about his fighting style. He was powerful, that much was evident, and his moves held the practiced grace of a warrior that had been training practically since birth. After a few more slashes at my arms and chest, I surmised that he wasn't very creative with his fighting style. Very well; enough of this.

Manin moved like a flash of lightning in my hand, bouncing off his black steel bracer with a metallic clang. He seemed somewhat surprised that I'd managed to land a hit on my first attempt at offense, but the shock on his face was quickly replaced by rage. I made a jab at his stomach, which he swept away with his own sword and then attacked quickly with a swift combination. Behind us, I could hear Zar'roc and Brisingr striking each other.

"Is this the best you can do, sister?" Léod sneered hatefully, a wild look in his eyes.

"You haven't seen the half of it," I whispered, attacking him with renewed vigor. My magic coursed through me, though I knew that Galbatorix would stop the fight if I dared to use it. If that happened, my chance to silence my brother for good may be lost. So I kept it under control, only allowing it to supplement my strength and stamina.

I heard Eragon grunt in pain behind me, and I desperately wanted to make sure he was alright, but I knew I could not drop my guard. Léod would seize the first opening I gave him.

They're both alright, Amera growled. Each battle is equally matched. I cannot see an end to this. You may not have a choice but to kill him, Tabby.

Tell me if things start going badly for Eragon, I replied, but then I returned my focus to the task at hand. Léod was coming at me again with a particularly vicious set of attacks. I could tell the wards around my shield were faltering; I needed to start attacking him and wearing him down.

Another blow landed on my shield and I pushed back, taking Léod by surprise. As he recovered, I began to slash mercilessly at his shield, forcing him to retreat momentarily. I aimed a blow at his greaves and watched as the metal dented slightly under my sword. He jumped back in surprise, cursing at the sudden pain. But I didn't allow him a moment's respite. Manin came down upon his shield again, chipping away at the painted wood and causing little splinters to fly everywhere. He raised his shield to protect his face and head, but while I continued my onslaught upon his shield, he made a quick swipe at my stomach that bit into the chainmail of my hauberk. I cried out and stumbled back at the pain.