Surda is a small country in the continent of Alagaësia.
Created roughly a century before the story of Eragon, Surda shares the southwest border of the Empire; it is south of the Broddring Kingdom, from which Galbatorix rules his ever growing empire.
Surda escaped being annexed into the Broddring empire by 'not being a threat' to the twisted king, Galbatorix. During the past century Surda has been using up its resources secretly conducting guerrilla warfare with the Empire, and supporting the Varden, a rebel organization created to destroy Galbatorix. Because of the all-powerful emperor and the small size of Surda, the smaller country remains officially neutral, not daring to openly confront the Empire. The kings of Surda are historically allied with the Varden leaders. The Surdan king at the time of the Eragon tale is Orrin, son of Larkin, who is well trained in battle even though he initially lacks experience. King Orrin rules Surda from the Borromeo Castle at Aberon, the capital of Surda. Borromeo castle is situated on a high bluff, giving its inhabitants and guards excellent views of the surrounding area - a security measure for the castle's safety. The ballistae mounted on Borromeo's battlements (as well as the towers circling Aberon) were especially designed to shoot down approaching dragons, a precautionary measure no doubt installed to fight the Thirteen Forsworn and Galbatorix himself.
