In my book, I believe that the author uses external conflicts to move the plot along. One conflict is that they are trying to stop hunger and poverty in their village. There is also Eragon trying to decide where to hide his dragon from the rest of the people so that they don't see it. This one is minor, but Eragon also has to find out how he will do his job for Horst in order to pay back for the meat if he has to do his housework. One internal conflict was Eragon debating whether he should keep the stone/egg.