Eldest

The Dragon Wing has been pursued by three of Galbatorix’s ships for the last few days. After a storm damages the ship’s mast, Roran and the villagers no longer have the speed to escape their enemies, so they decide to take the desperate measure of approaching the Boar’s Eye, a giant whirlpool. They plan to get close enough to pass through the maelstrom unharmed while their pursuers are caught in the currents: a highly dangerous maneuver.

Roran watches as the Dragon Wing reaches the Boar’s Eye. He and the crew spend hours rowing to counteract the pull of the current. The situation appears hopeless, but they are finally able to gain some distance. They eventually escape the whirlpool and watch as the three enemy ships are trapped and crushed by the currents.

Eragon and Orik fly on Saphira’s back, undergoing a journey of a few days in order to reach Surda. After crossing the desert, they finally arrive at the capital of Surda, where they are greeted by Orrin’s seneschal. He informs them that Nasuada and Orrin have left with their armies to meet Galbatorix’s forces. He directs Eragon and his companions to the site of the upcoming battle, which will take place in the Burning Plains: inhospitable lands that are covered in noxious clouds of mist.