This summary section includes Chapter 17: “Thunder Roar and Lightning Crackle,” Chapter 18: “Revelation at Yazuac,” Chapter 19: “Admonishments,” and Chapter 20: “Magic Is the Simplest Thing.”

As the party starts across the plain the following day, a huge storm springs up without warning. Saphira is tossed about by the wind and risks breaking her wings until Eragon hastens to help ground her. The following day, with their water supplies running low, Eragon and Brom approach the small town of Yazuac. To their horror, they find a mound of corpses, including men, women, and children. The most disturbing sight is a baby with a spear through its body. While the Ra’zac passed this way, the Urgals are responsible for the slaughter. Before they can recover from their shock, the two companions are attacked by a small party of Urgals. Brom is injured, but Eragon manages to fend off two others. Not knowing why, he shouts the word “brisingr,” and blue flames shoot from him along with his arrows, killing two foes.

With the remaining Urgals dead, Saphira arrives, furious that Eragon sent her away to hide. She allows the Rider to place the injured Brom on her back to carry him to safety.