Murtagh blinked as he entered the light. He looked around the illuminated room, happy to be there without being noticed. It was as he remembered; a small room with books and two little wooden chairs. There was even his book of Dóndar sitting on the table. As he smiled, remembering the past memories, he heard footsteps coming towards the door. He hid under the table just in time to see the door open.
To his surprise, Nasuada walked in. She looked rather sad, as if someone close to her had died. He listened as the girl sighed.
"Oh, how I miss you so, Murtagh. My father is dead. We found his body after the Urgal attack. He was dying, and only Eragon was there to see him. Where were you? We did search, but you and the Twins were gone. The Twins, I do not care that they have left. I feel relieved that I never will have to see their face again after what they did to you.
"But you, you are someone who cannot be replaced or forgotten. I did not miss those little smiles you sent me. Could I forget your warm lips on my hand? Now, you are gone. I know you cannot hear me, but I loved you, Murtagh!" She paused, tears coming out of her eyes. Murtagh got out of the table to hug her.
"Do not cry, Nasuada. I am alive," he said, taking her hand to comfort her. To his surprise, his hand slipped through hers. Her hand moved away as she wiped away the tears.
"Please, Nasuada. Hear me! I do care!" Murtagh cried out, nervous. Was he invisible to her? She ran out of the room, leaving Murtagh confused. As he stood, he heard quiet laughter that was so familiar…
"No defense could hold me back, Murtagh," Galbatorix whispered in his ear triumphantly, "Not even this love you believe in." Murtagh sunk to his knees, hurt by the torturous ways of Galbatorix. He watched Galbatorix smile as he broke through the last walls of defense and into the deepest part of his mind. As Galbatorix whispered his true name, the world went black.