Summary: Trapped in his personal hell, Murtagh lives each day with regret. When Nasuada is captured by Galbatorix, Murtagh's life takes a turn that could very well change Alagasesia...MurtaghxNasuada

Disclaimer: I don't own Eragon, the Inheritance trilogy, or anything. I don't even own an iPhone. Man my life sucks!

Song on Repeat: Camp Rock, but I won't admit that (I hate my sister). Body Electric from Fame

So this chapter goes out to Sasha (whom you might remember from chapter eight) and her new beau Gavin. I hope your relationship doesn't end up like Murtagh and Nasuada! ;) I'm a lovely friend

Nearly a week went by before Murtagh found himself heading to Nasuada's room late one morning. His mind was still unclear, but he needed to see her.

Grabbing a tray of food for her, he walked down the hallway at a semi-fast rate. Thorn, who had been going through some sort of physical therapy to get his strength back, was resting back in the Dragon's Hold, leaving Murtagh, once again, alone.

As Murtagh neared Nasuada's chambers, he heard grunts inside, like the voice of Urgal. Murtagh stopped still, hand on the key. Why were the Urgals in Nasuada's chamber? For whatever reason they were there, it was not good.

Keeping his hand steady, Murtagh slowly turned the key to find the door unlocked. Something cold dropped through his stomach as anxiety froze his blood.

He pushed the door open with a ringing clang. Inside stood three Urgals. One held some sort of paper with Urgal writing on it. Another one held a few vials (Murtagh was able to notice they were frightengly empty) and the last held a knife.

It took Murtagh a moment to find his strong voice. "What are you doing in here?" He asked. His voice wasn't as loud as he would've liked, but the quieter voice was full of authority.

The Urgals grumbled quietly and bowed. The one with the vials spoke up. "As you are well aware Master Murtagh, we have been instructed to do tests on Lady Nasuada. To try to break the barriars in her mind for you."

The world seemed to stop and spin in front of Murtagh. The words rung through his mind. "Well aware Master Murtagh…Tests on Lady Nasuada…Break the barriars in her mind for you…"

"Get out." Murtagh hissed. The Urgals shuffled out silently. Murtagh slammed the door behind them and, as instructed by the king, locked the door. Turning quickly, Murtagh fastened to Nasuada's bed.

She was worse then he'd thought. Her dark skin was pale and ashy, sweat beading upon her forehead. Eyes, wide and open, moving swiftly but not seeing, her hand clawed at the arm the Urgal had posed the dagger over, her nails drawing fresh blood.

Murtagh kneeled beside her, grasping her scratching hand. It was dry and to warm. She struggled momentarily, letting a small cry of pain or frustration escape her lips, but instantly fell silent. Her wide eyes frightened him. He placed a shaking hand upon her forhead. She was hot.

"Nasuada…Nasuada, what have I done to you?" He whispered. His voice did not register in her mind. But she rolled over, the back of her hand resting on his shoulder. Her eyes still as vacant as ever, looking as though she was living within a perpetual nightmare.

Murtagh jumped to his feet, frightened. But his mind was made up. "I promise you Nasuada, I will not leave you to suffer the fate that has already been imposed upon me." He whispered harshly.

As he turned to leave, his hand brushed his knife holster. Nasuada's knife was still kept there. He brought it out and stared at it. He carefully placed it under Nasuada's pillow.

He quickly walked from the room. 'Thorn, you were right. I no longer hold my life in any value. Thorn, I'm sorry dear friend, but I-will-not-sit by-and-watch-Nasuada-be-murdered!'

It took only a moment for Thorn to answer. 'I cannot begin to understand the intamitate feelings you feel for the Lady. But I understand your need to save her from the fate upon us. I will help any way I can.'

Murtagh stopped mid step. 'I-I…Thank you Thorn.'

And Murtagh turned and made his way to the royal gardens. His heart was pounding loudly, and it sounded like a clock within his chest. Ticking away, counting down the precious time he had left. For saving Nasuada would surely cost him, and Thorn, their lives.

Sorry it was so short. I make up for it though! My new special plot twist is coming up next chapter!! Next chapter comes out faster if I get at least five new reviews for this one. If not, I dunno, you might not get another chapter until Brisingar (sp?) comes out. I dunno, its up to you.

;)