Disclamer: I do not own Eragon.

Murtagh grunted as he smashed his head against one of Thorn's neck spikes.

Sorry. Thorn said.

That's alright, could you try and land a little more..gently next time? Murtagh asked with a chuckle, sliding off his dragons back. They had been flying for a few hours, the sun was just barely peeking over the horizon.

Are you sure this is far enough away? Murtagh asked.

I am sure, we have traveled far.

Murtagh grunted and set to work untying the several knots on Thorns saddle.

Murtagh? ...Do you not feel guilty for leaving Saphira behind?

Of course I do Thron. Murtagh sighed, lifting the saddle of Thorns back. But what could we have done?

Tried to save her at the very least...I mean don't you think-

Thorn, they were already breaking the door. If I stopped to even think about how to reverse Galbatorix's wards on her chains we would still be in Uru'bean.

I understand.. Thorn replied, hanging his head.

Thorn? Murtagh asked, placing a hand on his dragons shoulder. Is something wrong?

It..it just doesn't seem right to leave her behind..

I know Thorn, don't worry. We will go back for her soon.

Thorn nodded a mental wave and laid down on the ground, placing his head on his paws.

I'm going to get firewood. Murtagh announced, walking into the surrounding forest.

(Later)

Murtagh sat, staring intently into the dying embers. Thoughts raced around in his mind. What is Galbatorix gained control over them again. He thought his punishments had been bad before, now he could barely imagine what the torture would be like. He shuttered as images flew in front of his eyes.

Galbatorix walked in a circle, staring at a shaking Murtagh.

"You" The tyrant hissed, venom dripping from his voice, "Have defied me for the last time!"

Murtagh cried out in pain as fire crawled up his arms and legs, dancing in circles and burning the flesh. Tears blurred his vision as he fell to his knees.

"Well, anything to say Murtagh?" Galbatorix asked, waling in front of him. A long skinny object was hanging from his hands. Sharp spikes protruded from the leather. Murtagh was barely able to make out what it was: a whip. Fiery pain licks Murtaghs back as the whip drags along his skin, tearing the muscles. A gasp escaped Murtaghs lips as it strikes for the second time.

A evil crackle sounded from behind the rider as the whip cracked in the air. Murtagh lost count as the whip hit his back countless times, each more painful than the last. Time blurred, Murtagh was only focused on one thing: pain. He gave into it, letting it engulf him. It was the only thing that kept him sane. He was vaguely aware of Thorn taking some of his pain, even though he was in pain of his own.

Crashing weight pushed on Murtaghs back, causing him to fall to the gravel floor, scraping his cheek on the jagged stones. He could feel the blood oozing from his wounds, dripping off his sides and mixing with the dirt. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Galbatorix lift his left foot. The pained rider sucked in his breath, preparing himself for what would come next. An instant later the pain hit. Once, twice, three times, Galbatorix kicked Murtagh in the side. Groaning the rider rolled to his side, wincing from the pain. Murtagh could barely see through the tears that were streaming down his face.

"No." Murtagh gasped as he was kicked in the stomach. Sputtering and coughing, Murtagh grasped his stomach, attempting to regain his breath. He winced as each cough sent tremors through his pained body, making it ten times worse.

~M~

MURTAGH!

Murtagh shot straight up, whipping his head around.

Why did you block me from your mind? Thorn snapped, clearly not happy about the situation.

I didn't mean to. Murtagh said, standing to crouch near Thorn's saddle bag. Murtagh slipped a shaking hand under the cover, bringing out a large package wrapped in blankets.

Murtagh?

Shh, Thorn I have to talk to her. It always makes me feel better... Thorn remained silent as Murtagh unwrapped the blankest, revealing a large purple gem.

Vervanda?

Murtagh received a mental hiss in response and then, What is it you need?

Me and Thorn are free now!

Is that so? How does it feel?

Murtagh paused for a moment, contemplating what she had said. He had not stopped to think since the had left Uru'bean.

It feels no different, does it?

Well, I can make decisions for myself now. That is how it is different.

Ah, wise lad.

Murtagh? Thorn asked.

Aye?

We need to leave soon, you need some rest.

Murtagh sighed, acknowledging the truth of his dragons words. After a brief good bye to Vervanda He placed the Elendarì back in the bag and fell asleep.

A/N: Kay guys listen to me before you say it is short! It is so late and I spent my time doing this so you could have an update when I should have been studying! So anyway I hope you like it! As always leave me a review to tell me what you think please!

Does anyone recognize the dragon inside the Elendarì's name?

Reply to EminemBitches: lol thanks

Reply to ScienceWolf: Ehh the chant was so long because I figured it was best since it was supposed to be complicated, plus I got carried away! :P

Reply to basketballstar: Are you serious? I am one of the top out of 30 stories? Wow thanks!

Reply to TheReeDeRe9295: Thank you.

Reply to Jktkins: Ah yes you will see the connection soon. :)

Reply to Restrained . Freedom: Thank you!

So I hope you guys are excited about the next chapter! Murtagh and Eragon shall meet face to face! O_o