"In one hand, Birgit carried a drawn sword. In the other, a round wooden shield. Eragon's stomach sank. Nasuada's guards moved to intercept the two of them, but Roran shouted, "Let them pass!" Nasuada signaled to the guards and they stepped aside. Without slowing, Birgit walked over to Roran. "Birgit, please don't," said Katrina in a low voice, but the other woman ignored her. Arya watched them unblinkingly, her hand on her sword. "Stronghammer. I always said that I would have my compensation from you for my husband's death, and now I have come to claim it, as is my right. Will you fight me, or will you pay the debt that is yours?" Eragon went to stand by Roran. "Birgit, why are you doing this? Why now? Can't you forgive him and let old sorrows rest?" asked Saphira."