This summary section includes Chapter 33: “Trail of Oil,” Chapter 34: “Worshipers of Helgrind,” Chapter 35: “The Ra’zac’s Revenge,” Chapter 36: “Murtagh”, Chapter 37: “Legacy of a Rider,” and Chapter 38: “Diamond Tomb.”

The next morning, Eragon and Brom make discreet inquiries in town to see who might have handled a shipment of the volatile Seithr oil used by the Ra’zac. At the end of the day, they learn that the oil was taken to Helgrind, where the Ra’zac are likely hiding out.

When Eragon awakens the following day, he finds a note informing him that Brom has gone out to pursue some leads and that the boy should enjoy touring the city. After an upsetting visit to a slave market, Eragon wanders into the town’s gloomy but impressive cathedral. Lost in thought, he doesn’t realize that he has been ambushed by the Ra’zac. Eragon uses magic to escape and warns Brom and Saphira to meet him outside the town. That night, they debate what to do next when they are attacked without warning, and Eragon is knocked unconscious.

When the boy awakens, he finds himself bound. Saphira has been captured too, and Brom is likewise immobilized.