Part 3 – 20 years later

Murtagh picked up his cloak, readying himself for the task ahead. Earlier that day scouts had reported an uproar in a small town on the outskirts of the land and Murtagh, as the only dragon rider serving the crown at present, was now sent to restore the peace.

Twenty years of loyal service had passed since he'd kissed Nasuada, and he was still dreaming about that precious moment. They'd met only at official occasions such as state dinners, and when Nasuada required his presence along with her counsellors if faced with any threats towards the crown. Never alone. No long gazes or hidden signs of affections – he'd tried, but Nasuada wouldn't allow it.

Perhaps it was better that way. No one knew about what had happened between them, and Nasuada made sure to keep it that way. Obviously, she hadn't made up her mind about him yet.

Murtagh sighed. Twenty years was a long time, but as much as he loved her, he knew it was worth the wait. Nasuada was special, and a queen. She wouldn't be allowed to marry just anybody; her counsellors would make sure of that. And so proving himself worthy of a queen was not just about proving himself to Nasuada – he also had to prove himself to her counsellors, guards and subjects.

Perhaps, thought Murtagh, I might have to wait another twenty years before she'll decide. But that was fine. Since the elves had blessed – or cursed? – her with a long life, perhaps as long as his own could turn out to be, they both had time.

He was alone in his room, preparing for the next mission. He knew it would be dangerous, maybe even the most dangerous mission yet.

The door opened with a squeak, then it was shut behind whoever entered. Murtagh turned around and his eyes widened with surprise.

Nasuada entered his room. The cream coloured dress she wore stood in contrast to her beautiful black skin. And Murtagh couldn't take his eyes off her. She signalled for him to be quiet, then tiptoed her way across the wooden floor and didn't stop until she was standing right in front of him.

Eyeing his uniform, she gave a sad sort of smile he had never seen before. One that didn't reach her eyes. "So you are leaving?" she whispered.

He nodded, but didn't dare speak yet. He was fully aware that this was the first time in twenty years that he had spent time with him – alone.

"I had to speak with you, before…" Nasuada didn't finish the sentence. She cleared her throat, biting her lip. For some reason, she seemed nervous. "I don't know how to say this – how to begin, I mean."

Murtagh frowned. "Is anything the matter?"

"No. Except…" she met his gaze, finally. "Except I don't want you to leave, not without giving you something that belong to you."

Then she placed her hands around his neck, closed her eyes and kissed him for the second time. Murtagh felt his heart racing, beating hard against his chest.

When breaking the kiss, he opened his eyes to meet her wondering gaze. A single tear escaped from his eye. He swallowed, then placed his hands around her face and caressed her features while he spoke. "Will it be another twenty years before I get to kiss you again?" he whispered.

"I hope not." Nasuada kissed away his tear. He sighed with relief and allowed himself a little smile. "Murtagh… I need to ask another favour of you. Actually, two favours."

"Anything… my love."

Another sad smile. "Firstly, promise me that you'll return safe and unharmed. I need to know I will see you again."

"I promise."

She let out a long sigh. "And I need more time. I'm sorry to have to ask this of you, but believe me, it is necessary."

He blinked. More time? "How long?" he asked, afraid of what the answer would be.

"Ten years."

Ten years.

"Of course," he said. It was a long time, but it wouldn't last forever. In ten years' time he would, finally, get to be with her.

"I want you to find Eragon," Nasuada continued.

Murtagh raised his eyebrows in surprise. "Why?"

"Because you are still uneducated as a rider. He knows a great deal that you need to learn. He could teach you. And you might teach him a thing or two as well." She reached into a hidden pocket in her dress and pulled out a letter. "Give this to him. And come back to me as soon as you can – I too want another kiss before you leave me again."

Murtagh took the letter, kissed her hand in a formal farewell, and she left.

He had mixed feelings about her order. Of course, he looked forward to the day he finally could be with Nasuada. But to be united with his brother again, was a whole other story. It would not go well at first – maybe never.

With a sigh, Murtagh put the letter in the breast pocket of his uniform, put his cloak on and walked out the door. He was by no means ready for this mission, or the next – but then again, one could never be completely ready for missions such as these.

To be continued...