Pain and Love:Entwined Forever
Ch 25
Reilyn just couldn't get comfortable; no matter how much she squirmed around, she couldn't find the right place, and it damn near brought her to tears. Suddenly, a very strong arm looped her, gently pulling her back into a warm body, and another arm went under her head to serve as a pillow. A leg found its way between hers, wrapping around at the knee, and a comforting kiss was placed to her neck. After a few moments, she realized that she was now perfectly comfortable, and she let out a small, relieved, and thankful giggle.
"There," Murtagh whispered into her neck. "Are you comfortable now, my love?"
"Yes," she nodded, squirming into his chest a little more. "Thank you. . ."
"Mmmm," he growled in his chest, lapping her neck, and gently stroked her stomach. "I love you, Reilyn."
"I love you too, Prince," she yawned, eyes slipping shut.
"Get some rest," he whispered, giving her another kiss.
She went back to sleep, safe and comfortable in the arms of the dark Rider, and stayed that way until morning. Murtagh was still wrapped protectively around her, face buried in her neck, and the smell of food lured her from under the blankets. She could feel the weakness in her body as she slowly crawled to the foot of the bed and had to rest there in order to regain her breath.
Murtagh said I'd be weak, she mused, growing frustrated. But this is unbelievable. . .
"Rei?" a groggy prince yawned. "What do you need? I can get it. . ."
"Nothing," she said, standing up. "I can--."
Her legs gave out suddenly, she fell, and Murtagh managed to catch her effortlessly. Growling, she tried to pry him off her, but was far too weak.
"Reilyn, you're weak," he murmured, sitting back down on the bed. "I know you hate it, but you need to just take things easy for a while."
She growled again, pulling at his arms, and he gave her a loud warning growl, tightening his hold. Whimpering, she gave up, sinking into him, and felt so useless. Murtagh nuzzled right behind her ear, humming softly, and his hands rubbed up and down her sides.
"I really don't mind taking care of you," he purred. "It's high time you're treated royally. . .Now, what did you want?"
"Something to eat," she murmured, pouting.
"Mmm," he snickered, carefully setting her off his lap, and getting her a bowl of soup.
"I can feed myself," she grumbled, taking the bowl.
"All right," he chuckled, getting himself some food.
Reilyn's eyes fluttered blissfully with the first bite, she savored every single spoonful, and even had seconds. She felt a little stronger after eating, but not much, and slowly started inspecting her body for wounds. Her back was smooth and unscarred, her arms free of wretched claw marks, no broken ribs, but when she felt that place over her heart, there was a scar.
Proof of my death, she thought, tears forming.
"Reilyn? What is it?" Murtagh asked, seeing her tears.
"Nothing," she lied, pulling her shirt closed and wrapping a blanket around her shoulders.
The dark teen gave her a look, sitting beside her, and slowly started to pull the blanket from her. She whimpered, trying to keep her scar covered, but he wasn't having it. The blanket was put aside and he held her hands down with one of his when she tried to brush him away. Hazel eyes fell on her scar, she turned her face away from him, and silently cried.
"Everyone has their scars," he whispered, kissing her mark. "Some have even more than others," he said, undoing his shirt to reveal his scarred body.
She tied her shirt closed, looking at the strong body in front of her, and gently touched his warm skin. He hummed, smiling, and she wiped some tears away.
"There's no use being ashamed of your scar, Rei," he said, gently stroking her hair.
"I just. . ." she started, taking a moment to collect her thoughts. "It really just sank in that I actually died. . .And I have the scar to prove it. . ."
"It's a very becoming scar, my dear," he laughed, absently touching it through the shirt. "One to be worn with pride. . ."
"Ah, you're awake!" Kiera chirped, making her jump as the witch ducked into the tent. "How are we feeling?"
"Very weak," she murmured. "But alive."
"Well, I've got something that will help you regain strength," the witch smiled warmly. "Just give me a few moments to make the tea," she said, putting water on to boil.
Reilyn looked to the still sleeping Eragon, gently brushing a lock of his hair from his face, and saw him smile.
"Mmm. . .Good morning, Reilyn," he grinned, stretching.
"Good morning," she smirked. "Sleep well?"
"Yes, especially since I know you were all right," he chuckled, sitting up. "Good morning, Murtagh."
"Good morning indeed," the oldest teen grinned, messing up the boy's hair.
"Reilyn, are you guarding your thoughts?" Eragon asked unexpectedly.
"No, why?" she looked at him curiously.
"Saphira says she's been trying to reach you," he said, looking concerned.
"I. . .I haven't felt anyone prying at my mind," she whispered. "The magicians put a seal on me, could that be it?"
"No," Murtagh said. "A seal passes with death. . ."
"You may just be too weak yet to undertake such things," Kiera said soothingly, dropping some herbs into a bowl for crushing.
"Perhaps," she murmured, heart sinking.
Have I lost my ability to converse with the dragons forever? A penance for defying Death?
"Rei," Murtagh said firmly, taking hold of her face and staring into her eyes. Several long moments passed, the hazel eyes burning into her, and she fought tears. "I. . .I can't reach her. . ." Murtagh sighed. "Did you feel me trying?"
"No, I'm sorry," she whimpered, tears falling again.
"Don't fret, Rei," the eldest soothed, brushing away her tears. "I could feel your mind, but it's almost as if you're at a great distance. . ."
"Saphira is saying you should be strong, Rei," Eragon murmured. "Murtagh's right. . .She can also feel your mind, but very faintly. . ."
She nodded, wiping her cheeks, and set her jaw. Her strength may be limited, but she'd be damned if she wouldn't manage--even if the thought of losing that special connection to everyone she care for was unbearable. To distract herself, she watched Kiera mixing things for her tea, and was appalled at some of the ingredients. The witch crushed the petals of what seemed to be a blue lily and Reilyn was transfixed as the flower seemed almost to bleed blue. Kiera poured the juice of the flower into a cup, then sprinkled some crushed up herbs in it, added some boiling water, but was not yet done. She put some silver liquid in the tea, stirring it with the stem of a rose, and then brought it to Reilyn.
"This will give you a small amount of your strength back permanently," she said. "But it will far from cure you completely. . .Think of this as a stepping stone if you will. . .Drink it all. . ."
"Thank you," she said, bowing her head as she took the cup.
The tea was a silvery-blue color, the colors mixing and swirling in a hypnotizing fashion, and it smelled pleasantly sweet. Closing her eyes, Reilyn put the cup to her lips, and proceeded to drain it of the liquid it held. It was very sweet and the taste lingered welcomingly in her mouth. Warmth coursed her body, she felt herself sway where she sat, and could feel a small amount of her old strength seeping back into her muscles. She made a fist with one hand, pleased when it held strong, and then tried to stand on her own.
"Rei?" Murtagh growled nervously, quickly standing beside her.
"I'm all right," she laughed, walking over to the table on steady legs and setting the cup down.
"Reilyn?" Kiera whispered, something clasped in her hands. "I have something for you . . ."
She extended her hand, immediately recognizing the necklace that was dropped into it, and felt her breath hitch. The star was no longer filled with her blood, but black ashes, and she closed her fist around it gently.
"What is it?" Eragon asked, stepping up beside her.
"The charm," Reilyn murmured, moving to fasten it around her neck. "And it holds my death within. . ."
"You're going to keep it?" Eragon squeaked. "Why?"
"I'm not sure," she smirked. "It feels right. . ."
"Don't worry, it can't harm her in any way," Kiera assured both Riders.
"Sir Eragon?" a soldier called suddenly from outside the tent.
Murtagh quickly ushered Reilyn back into bed, telling her to stay quiet and be still, and covered her up.
"Speak," the brunette said.
"Morzan wishes your council," the man said. "And Kiera, you're needed for antidotes to a poison. . ."
"Always something," the witch sighed, grabbing her basket.
"Does my father wish to see me as well?" Murtagh asked.
"No, sir. . .Just the Blue Rider," he replied.
"I'm coming," Eragon called, then looked to Reilyn and mouthed 'I'll be back. . .Love you.' She nodded in response, playing dead as they left , and then sat up.
Hazel eyes were looking her over slowly, she shifted a little, and avoided his face. The older teen sat in front of her, tipping her face up, and she braced herself.
"Why, Rei?" he asked, eyes flicking to the charm. "Why even think of risking your life?"
"It was only a precaution," she said. "And it paid off in the end. . I never intended on betraying my vow to you, Murtagh, but in case you gave me an order that I just couldn't bring myself to carry out, I had it made."
"I'm. . .glad, in a sense," he growled softly. "But also disturbed that you'd consider these sorts of things. . ." he caressed her throat. "I. . .I had to see you die. . .Do you know what that did to me?!"
"No," she whimpered shakily. "I'm not sorry I had the charm made, Murtagh."
Reilyn cringed as he moved forward quickly, closing her eyes, but never felt the blow she was expecting. Instead, lips met hers, the kiss pushing her back to the bed, and a familiar tongue was pleading desperately for entry. Slowly, she parted her lips, hearing the impatient whimper from the man, and then met him partway. A loud growl erupted from Murtagh, his hands stroking her neck, and she laced her fingers in his gorgeous raven locks.
"Neither am I," he panted with a grin when they broke apart. "But you can't be as brash as me with your life anymore. . .Don't be me."
"Is that an order?" she teased, playing with his hair.
"Does it have to be?" he growled at her. "Next time, share your plans with myself and Eragon. . ."
"Yes, Murtagh," she said seriously.
There was another growl as he leaned down, capturing her lips again, and she pulled him closer, grasping the back of his neck. He dominated the kiss, tongue torturing her slowly, and she carefully slipped her fingers under the collar of his shirt, fingering his scar. The teen shuddered violently, growling, and sank his teeth into her lip roughly.
"I was so terrified, Rei," he murmured against her lips. "I don't know how I could survive without you. . ."
"You don't have to," she whispered. "I'm still here. . ."
"Mmm," he growled softly, nibbling on her neck.
Reilyn closed her eyes, relishing the feel of his sharp teeth on her flesh, and gently traced the nape of his neck. Murtagh licked and sucked on her throat, nipping lovingly here and there, and she shivered pleasantly. Soon, the pale teen lay his head over her heart, and kissed the scar softly through the shirt. She looked to him, studying his features, and then focused on trying to reach his mind with hers.
Murtagh? she whispered. The man twitched as if he felt her, but settled down again. Murtagh? she asked again. This time he looked to her.
"Rei?" he murmured.
Yes! she cheered. You can hear me!
"Rei? Is that you?" he asked.
"You. . .You can't hear me?" she whispered, feeling weak suddenly.
"No, but I could feel your mind faintly," he said. "Are you feeling all right? You don't look well all of a sudden. . ."
"Tired," she blushed.
"You're pushing it with the mind link," he scolded.
"But I hate the feeling of being alone," she whimpered. "I can't feel anyone's mind. . .Not even the dragons!"
"Shhh, my love," he soothed, stroking her hair. "We still have the link. . .I can feel your mind, but your body must still be too weak for communication. . ."
She huffed in frustration, absently chewing her lip, and Murtagh made her stop. Hazel eyes gazed at her, he held himself over her, and let their noses touch.
"Murtagh?" she breathed.
"Shh. . .Focus on my eyes," he said, then fell silent.
She looked into the beautiful eyes, losing herself in them, and suddenly felt a soft pull at her mind. Hope flooded her, she continued to stare into the Rider's eyes, and felt another soft pull, accompanied by the faintest whisper.
Reilyn.
"I. . .I heard you!" she cried joyously, hugging him. "It was quiet, but I heard you!"
"Now that you're satisfied, get some rest," he chuckled gently. "You already wore yourself out."
"Did Eragon bring me any sleep clothes?" she yawned.
"Yes," he smirked. "Would you like to change?"
"Yes. . .I can do it on my own. . .Now, if you please. . ." she said, gesturing he leave and give her privacy.
"I won't look, but I'm also not leaving," he growled firmly.
"Fine," she sighed, knowing him all too well by now.
She climbed from the bed, finding a set of sleep clothes, and checked over her shoulder. Murtagh had rolled to his side, his strong back now facing her, and she began to change. She undid the belt on her pants, letting them fall to the ground, and stepped out of them. Reilyn pulled on the sleep pants, tying them, checked Murtagh once more, and then changed her shirt. She touched her scar over her heart absently, shivering, and then pulled on the black night shirt quickly.
"You know, covering up that much beautiful skin should be considered a crime," Murtagh snickered.
"Murtagh!" she scolded, spinning around. "You said you wouldn't look!"
"I didn't. . .Well, for the most part," he chuckled.
She glared at him, hands on her hips, and he immediately dropped his head. The teen blushed, biting his lip, and she watched him.
"Dammit, Rei," he murmured. "I. . .I just couldn't help it. . .I could hear you changing, I told myself not to, but I had to. . .I'm sorry."
"Why did you feel that you just had to look?" she growled.
"I don't know," he said, glancing up, and then back down.
When I was first back with him, I always felt the urge to watch him. . .More so when he was shirtless, she told herself.
"Rei," he said softly, staring at his lap.
"How can I be mad with you?" she sighed, sitting on the bed, and tipping his chin up. "How often have I watched you change clothes?"
"I only saw your back," he whispered. "I swear. . ."
"I've decided to let it go," she smiled, brushing his raven locks from his eyes. "Stop punishing yourself already. . ."
He broke into a huge grin, nuzzling her palm, and she kissed his face. The eldest continued to smile, laying back down, and she curled up to his muscled body.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Eragon stood in Morzan's tent, nervous beyond anything. He'd never really been in a room alone with the man and wasn't sure what to expect. He had asked the soldier why the man wanted to see him, but the man had known nothing.
Little one, why worry so much about it? Saphira asked.
What if he knows?! he gasped, suddenly very afraid.
He surely would have gone straight to see her then, she said. Now, stop worrying about that. . .We aren't sure what he's after. . .
"Ah, so you're here," Morzan said, coming into the tent.
"Yes, sir," he murmured, kneeling.
"Tell me, if the Varden is retreating, where is it they will go?" he asked, getting down to business.
"I'm not sure, my lord," he said.
"You don't know their hiding places?" he growled in disbelief.
"Only the last," he mumbled. "But you know that location. . ."
"Mmm. . .I see," he grumbled, pacing. "If only we knew where the rats would scurry to. . .It'd be so much easier to exterminate them."
Eragon stayed silent, watching the man pace, and tried to keep calm. The man scowled as he paced, fingers thrumming madly on his sword handle, and he abruptly stopped.
"I suppose it doesn't matter where the rats scurry, they'll rise up again and strike. . .Only to be shoved back to their places," he chuckled.
"Sir, I hear some of the recruits refuse to fight. . .Seems-," he began.
"That Reilyn was a 'goddess'. . .Yes, I know," he laughed. "Their damn foolish beliefs."
Their foolish beliefs are the only reason the Empire has this victory! Saphira snorted.
Saphira, enough! he scolded.
"Does your beast know where the Varden would run to?" Morzan asked.
No, she growled.
"No, she doesn't," he sighed.
"Doesn't matter," Morzan said, waving the whole thing off with his hand. "Now. . .Tell me, how is my son dealing with Reilyn's death?"
"Oh. . .Ummm. . ." he fidgeted, thinking. "He's. . .Heartbroken, sir."
"Mmm," he nodded. "Boy always did have a big heart, like Selena wanted. . .He's still not leaving her?"
"No, sir," he said, put off by the man.
"She will be missed," he sighed. "Never had a woman nearly as strong as her. . .Of course, leave it to a woman to get herself caught. . .Seems they have an undying need to play the damsel in distress. . ."
Little one, don't! Saphira warned. Just leave it alone. . .
Can you believe him?! he snapped.
Sadly, I can, she sighed.
"Reilyn gave her life to keep your secrets safe, Morzan," he growled. "Even though she despised the Empire, she didn't turn her back on you."
"Well, it seems my boy's tongue has rubbed off on you," Morzan snarled. "You are dismissed, Rider. . .Get out of my sight."
Eragon bowed, then stalked out of the tent, and made his way back to Kiera's tent. He saw Reilyn nuzzled into Murtagh, sleeping again, and sat down with a huff. Hazel eyes looked him over, the pale man cocking his eyebrow, and he sighed.
"Your father. . ."
"What about him?" Murtagh whispered.
Eragon told him about the conversation, hearing the teen growl angrily when he found out what his father had said about Reilyn, and he slipped from Rei's body. Murtagh hastily pulled on his boots, then went to grab his weapons, and Reilyn woke up.
"Murtagh, what's going on?" she asked, rubbing her eyes.
"Father seems to have forgotten his manners," he growled. "I'm going to remind him of them. . ."
"No," she said firmly. "Don't. . .Just stay here with me. . ."
"Rei!" he roared, facing her. "The things he's said about you!"
"Murtagh, do you honestly expect that man to say anything kind about me in death when he never did when I was alive?" she snorted.
"She's right," Eragon murmured, gently touching his shoulder. "He's never been kind about her. . ."
"You speak as if you're dead," the teen breathed, kneeling on the bed.
"He believes that I am," she smirked, touching his face.
Murtagh sighed, his mood fading for the moment, and collapsed to the bed. The eldest tugged Eragon down to the bed with him, burying his face into his neck, and Eragon felt Reilyn ruffle his hair. A glance to his friend confirmed that she was laying back down, he nudged Murtagh with his nose, gesturing that they settle in, and then they both moved to either side of Rei. Murtagh kept carding his fingers through Eragon's hair, making him purr, and he heard Reilyn giggle quietly.
"Enough, you two," she laughed, curling up to Eragon for a change. "I'm still present."
"Mmm. . .Fine," Murtagh growled, wrapping a leg over both of theirs.
"Murtagh. . .about the ball. . ." Eragon whispered.
"The Ball?" Reilyn asked, looking at him. "They're still having it?"
"Mmm hmm," Murtagh nodded. "Most likely after your 'funeral'. . ."
"Oh," she murmured, settling back in. "Can I still go?"
"Uhhh. . .Rei, I don't think--," Eragon started.
"Of course," Murtagh chuckled. "I planned on taking you with me. . ."
"But no one knows she's alive!" Eragon said.
"What better way to present her 'resurrection'?" he laughed. "And of course, the best way to get back at my father."
"I. . .can't dance. . ." Reilyn blushed, hiding her face in Eragon's chest.
"I already said I'd teach you," the dark teen laughed, nuzzling her. "That may be a good way for you to build up strength."
"Really?" she asked shyly.
"Really," the eldest smiled. "And I'm sure Eragon won't mind helping. . ."
"Ummm. . .If I knew how, I wouldn't," he blushed.
"Then I'll teach both of you," the eldest purred. "I don't understand how neither of you know how to dance. . ."
"Well, we've never really been required to attend a Ball," Eragon retorted shortly, slightly offended.
"Mmm. . .I've forgotten that," Murtagh said. "We have a short amount of time to learn, so you two will need to pay close attention."
"How will Reilyn attend? She hasn't a dress," Eragon whispered, earning a glare from the girl.
"Well. . .Vannie is trustworthy. . .She can help," the man said. "Mmmm. . .My Reilyn in a dress again. . .I can't wait."
"Hush," she growled.
They both laughed at her attitude towards wearing a dress, hugging her, and she huffed. Kiera came back into the tent, startling Eragon, and he went to pull from Murtagh's embrace.
"I'm sorry to interrupt," she sighed. "But I've been told that Murtagh's group is leaving n a few days and you two are to help with tearing things down and packing up. . ."
"Ah, yes," Murtagh groaned. "Well, come on. . .Faster we get started, the faster we get done. . ."
"Right," he mumbled, slipping from the bed. "Get some more rest, Rei."
"Mmm hmm," she nodded, rolling over and curling up in the blankets.
"Sir Murtagh?" the witch murmured as they passed.
"Yes?"
"Umm. . .I heard you talking of the Ball. . .Reilyn won't have that much strength in the space of a few days. . ." she said softly. "But if you like. . .I can make the elixir again for her. . ."
"That would be much appreciated, Kiera," the man smiled, bowing his head.
"I'll work on that and some instructions for her dosage," she smirked.
"Thank you," the teen grinned, ducking outside.
"Are you sure that having Rei attend the Ball is such a good idea?" Eragon whispered nervously. "I mean, we're going to be having a 'funeral' for her soon after we get back!"
"I want her to go," Murtagh said. "Besides. . .how long do you believe we could keep it hidden?"
He's right, Little one, Saphira said gently. How long could she hide? The rest of her life?
The people will be furious for such a deception, he murmured.
Or perhaps they will be overjoyed, she said lightly.
He just sighed, greatly troubled by his thoughts, and sullenly followed Murtagh to their original tent. Eragon slowly started packing things up, lost in his swirling mind, and never noticed Murtagh merely watching him work.
"You think too much," the man snickered after a while.
"What?" he asked, glancing to the teen as he rolled up scrolls and maps.
"You spend too much time in your head," the eldest chuckled, leaning on the thick wooden center post of the tent. "Worrying and brooding over things that may never go how you imagine they will. . ."
"They usually go worse," he growled. "Certainly your father and Galbatorix will be enraged to have such a secret withheld from them. . ."
The teen simply watched him, hazel eyes seemingly expecting something more, and he turned back to his task. He began folding and rolling up what bedding was left, mulling things over, and finally turned to the older teen.
"What if they kill her again? Permanently?!" he demanded. "Or us!"
"I knew you'd eventually get this carried away," he laughed, moving and pushing Eragon to the bed.
"Well?" he snapped, glaring at them. "Have you even thought of that?!"
"No," he purred. "Because I have a pretty good understanding of how the events will go. . ."
"Oh!" he laughed sarcastically. "Then enlighten me, Prince."
"All right," he smirked, sitting beside him. "The people will most likely be in shock at first, then they will be pleased to see Rei alive and well. . .Father will be pissed. . .Very pissed." Eragon cringed at the mere thought of Morzan getting that angry. "He may threaten to kill her, but Galbatorix will never permit such a thing to happen. . .The king will most likely be thrilled to find her still alive."
"And you say I'm imaginative?" he snorted.
"I've known both men much longer than you," he chuckled, kissing his neck. "I know well enough how they respond the certain things by now."
Trust him, Saphira said. He does know more abut them than almost anyone in the castle. . .
But there's a chance he's wrong!
Little one, you'll see who's right soon enough. . .
Hopefully not at the cost of Reilyn's life, he grumbled.
"Stop worrying so much about it, Er," Murtagh whispered, nuzzling behind his ear.
"I just don't want to lose her again," he murmured.
"Do you think I'd have her go to the Ball if I thought that had the slightest chance of happening?" he asked, gently licking the spot just behind his ear.
"No," he said, shivering. "Murtagh. . .Enough. We have to pack. . ."
"We have plenty of time for that," the man growled, already busy undoing Eragon's shirt.
Several hours later they were through packing up the belongings in their tent and Eragon was very relaxed, thanks to his older counterpart. The sun was setting as they made their way back to Kiera's tent, both men yawning, and they could smell a roast of some sort as they neared the dwelling. Plates were already set out for them, the meat still steaming, and Eragon realized just how hungry he was. Reilyn was sitting at the table, already eating her dinner, and Murtagh kissed her head before sitting.
"Smells good," Eragon purred, quickly sitting.
"Thank you," Kiera laughed. "I haven't cooked for more than one in a long time. . ."
"No complaints here," Murtagh said around food.
"Here either," Eragon hummed with the first bite.
The meat was perfectly tender, seasoned just right, and the vegetables were just as good. Both men were even more tired after they had a full belly and were warm, and they followed suit with Rei after dinner--crawling into bed. She curled up in between them, snuggling into Eragon again, and very soon they were all sleeping soundly.
"Murtagh, I just can't do this!" Reilyn whined, waking Eragon. He rolled over and saw Murtagh trying to teach her how to dance.
"Rei, you can too," the dark teen smiled encouragingly. "You have a lot of natural grace. . .Try again."
Eragon watched as she took his hand, putting her other on his shoulder, and his hand went to her waist. Murtagh began humming, dancing to it, and Reilyn matched his movements flawlessly for a time.
"Damn!" she growled as she stepped out of time.
"Ah!" he scolded when she tried to get away from him. "Again. . ."
"No, I'm through," she grumbled, wrenching away.
"Rei," the man growled, gently grabbing her wrist.
Murtagh, just let her take a break, Eragon said.
"Eragon, you're up," he purred, smiling at the boy. "Wonderful!"
"Good! Teach him!" Rei said darkly, going to the bed and sitting down.
"I will," he chuckled, kissing her forehead. "After he wakes up a little more. ..Then you can watch and learn."
"Fine," she mumbled moodily, laying on Eragon's legs.
"How are you feeling?" he asked, sitting up and running his fingers in her hair.
"Somewhat stronger, but no better at dancing," she sighed.
"You'll get it, Reilyn," Murtagh smiled, touching her knee. "I promise."
"Mmm," she growled, hugging Eragon's legs.
"Rei, can I try something?" he asked.
"What?" she looked at him.
Reilyn, can you hear me today? he murmured, reaching out for her mind.
She let out a very small laugh, eyes welling up, and he heard a very quiet response: Yes, Eragon.
He laughed, pulling her up into a hug, and she cried into his neck. Hazel eyes gave them a concerned glance, the man gently hugged Reilyn from behind, and Eragon kissed her cheek over and over.
"What's wrong?" Murtagh whispered, nuzzling Rei.
"The link's getting stronger," Eragon said, smiling. "Merely tears of joy, Murtagh."
"Really?" he was excited. "Reilyn, really?!"
"Yes," she giggled softly. "I could hear Eragon clear as day."
"Her response was soft though," Eragon said, stroking her hair. "But I heard her. . ."
"Very good!" the eldest cheered, suddenly scooping her up.
He watched as she clung to Murtagh, laughing as the man waltzed with her, and then sat her gently on the bed. Eragon was pulled up by the hand, instructed in the steps, and then learned how to lead in a dance.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Murtagh was busy saddling Thorn early the next morning. His troop was to head for the castle today, but himself and Eragon were going to fly straight through the night--in order to prepare Rei's funeral.
Thorn, remember that she will be unconscious for a while, he said, fastening straps of the saddle.
Yes, Brave one, I know, Thorn said in his gravelly voice. How many times must I tell you that I will fly carefully?
I'm just worried, he sighed, stroking the ruby scales. I have to render her unconscious with magic. .. It's touchy. . .
As son as we are far enough away, I will land so she can wake and ride normally. . .he rumbled. I swear it. . .
Thank you, Thorn, he smiled, patting his leg. There, you're all saddled. . .
Mmm. . .his beast looked at him. You best go tend to Reilyn. . .
Yes, he murmured. We'll be leaving soon, I'm sure. . .
I'll be ready. . .
He left his dragon, heart racing nervously, and Eragon met him at the tent. The boy looked scared to death, his lip was being abused violently by his teeth, and Murtagh touched his arm to calm him. Reilyn's brown eyes were filled with worry when they entered the tent, her breathing picked up the closer he got to her, and he gently held her face with his hands.
"Rei, you'll be all right," he said. "Thorn and I promise."
"He's already told me it'll be a relaxing flight," she giggled nervously. "Once I'm conscious. . ."
"I hate having to use the spell, Rei," he whispered. "But you have to look dead. . ."
"What if someone tries to--," she began.
"Everyone is aware that I'm not letting you out of my sight. . .No one will offer to take your body. . .Besides, I'm the one preparing the funeral. . ."
"Ok," she sucked in a breath. "Let's get to it then. . ."
He pulled her into one of the deepest kisses he could muster, growling softly when she pulled him closer, and then he bit her lip gently as they parted. She lay back on the bed, closing her eyes, and he gently kissed her cheek.
"Rei, I love you," he whispered.
"I love you too. . .Both of you," she breathed, opening her gorgeous brown eyes.
"I love you too, Reilyn," Eragon said, coming over and kissing her forehead.
She shut her eyes once more, jaw trembling slightly, and Murtagh gently put a hand on her chest. He called up his magic, then said the words to put her into unconsciousness, and watched her eyes flutter as she slipped off. He quickly wrapped her in his cloak, scooping her up, and breathed one last spell just as he neared Thorn, a spell to stop her breathing. He mounted Thorn uninterrupted, holding her to him, and his father approached him.
"You're flying all through the night?" Morzan asked.
"Yes, I've things to tend to," he mumbled, gesturing the body in his arms. "The funeral will be held in the morning. . ."
"Mmm. .. Then we'll see you at the castle," Morzan said briskly, walking off.
Thorn, go now, he urged, not wanting to hold the spell on her breath any longer.
His dragon was quick to take to the air and Murtagh immediately released the spell on her chest; Reilyn's unconscious body gasped for air, he hugged her tighter, and watched as the ground got farther away. Eragon and Saphira flanked him on the left, the brunette looked at Rei, then to Murtagh.
How is she? he asked.
Unconscious still, obviously, he said. She seems to be doing fine. . .
Good. . .Let me know when Thorn finds a place to land. . .
I will. . .
They flew for almost half an hour before Thorn spotted a clearing large enough for both dragons to land and he informed Eragon. They landed, Murtagh quickly dismounted, and gently lay Reilyn on the ground. He whispered the counter to the spell, and she came to, in a slight panic and very confused.
"Rei, it's all right," he said, pinning her down when she struggled. "You're all right. . ."
She stopped fighting him, gripping his wrists tightly, and stared at him. Eragon ran over to them, kneeling down, and touched her hands.
"Reilyn, it's us," he said softly. "We're on the way back to the castle. . .Do you remember?"
"Barely," she said lightly, releasing her hold on Murtagh.
He unpinned her, sitting next to her, and she sat up. Eragon offered her his water skin, she took a long drink, and whispered that she was hungry.
"I've got some jerky in the pack. . .Can you eat in the air?" Murtagh asked. "We're not very far ahead of the troop. . ."
"I suppose so," she said, standing slowly.
He got the jerky out, helped Reilyn get on Thorn, and then stole a kiss of relief from Eragon. He then watched the brunette climb onto Saphira, mounted his own beast, and strapped his and Reilyn's legs in tightly. She seemed more relaxed with riding this time, leaning into his chest, and she only really held onto the leather loop while she was eating.
Enjoying yourself? he asked, nuzzling her neck.
Yes. . .It's beautiful. . .I never knew that Galbatorix's forest spread this far, she said in awe.
He owns quite a lot of land, he said, kissing her temple. Mostly out of fear. . .Much of it is very beautiful. . .He owns several large estates as well. . .
Does he ever go to them? she asked, glancing back to him.
Not very often, he smiled. I've been to a few of them when I was very young. . .
They talked a little more before she let herself get absorbed in the view of the woods and he busied himself with planning how to fake her funeral. They'd need a body, preferably a fake one, and somehow it had to look like her.
A glamour will take care of that, he thought. And we'll give her a pyre. . .Fit for royalty. . .
Reilyn took his hands in hers, leaning back into him, and he purred, nibbling on her ear. Eragon pulled up next to them, smiling at Rei, and then he and Saphira went into a spiral upwards. Reilyn laughed as Eragon and Saphira dove down, not afraid like before, and pulled Murtagh's arms around her middle, sighing.
How are you doing? he murmured, resting his chin on her shoulder.
All right, she smirked. This is a very relaxing flight. . .Are we really going all night?
We'll take a break or two, he chuckled. To stretch our legs and eat. . .After sunset. . .
Is it possible to sleep on a dragon?
Quite, he laughed. Though I won't be sleeping. . .
Do you think you'll be able to get me into the castle? she whispered nervously.
Yes, and without a spell, he said. Thorn says we're making good time, with any luck you'll still be sleeping when we arrive. . .I'll just carry you inside. . .Covered up of course.
Oh, she smirked. All right then. . .
They rode on in silence, enjoying the peace, and watched the sun set over the forest. The dragons found a perfect clearing to rest in for a little while and landed. Reilyn still wasn't used to riding and her legs were very unsteady as she slipped from the saddle.
"Easy!" he said, following her. "Give yourself time to regain your balance."
"Why is it you and Eragon have no trouble with balance?" she growled, swaying and falling against him.
"Simple. . .We've been riding much longer than you," Eragon laughed, already busy with a fire. "But I imagine you'll get the hang of it if you keep it up. . ."
"Really?" she asked, slowly walking around.
"Really," Murtagh smiled at her. "And your muscles will develop as well. . ."
"Hmmmm," she hummed, seemingly contemplating the idea.
She walked around a little, eventually finding the small stream they landed near, and bent to wash her face. Murtagh watched her splash the water on her face, fishing some of Kiera's roast from his pack, and put it in a pot to warm on the fire.
"Rei, come here," he said, patting next to him. "Warm up. . .It will get cold whilst riding tonight."
"Fantastic," she muttered, sitting close to the fire.
He laughed, wrapping his cloak around her, and went to get an extra from the pack. Thorn and Saphira were off hunting together while the three teens were warming up and getting ready to eat, and they returned soon enough, nuzzling one another. Eragon smiled at the two beasts, eating his dinner, and Murtagh chuckled at their behavior.
What? Thorn snorted.
Nothing, he smiled, eating some roast.
I don't judge when you cuddle with either of your mates! he growled.
I'm not judging, he snickered. It's just new. . .Seeing you affectionate. . .
Mmmm, Thorn rumbled, nuzzling Saphira's head. I see why you enjoy it so much, Brave one. . .
A yawn caught his attention, he turned, and saw Reilyn blushing, covering her mouth. They finished up their dinner, extinguished the fire, and prepared to leave once more. Reilyn pulled up her hood, wrapping the cloak tighter to her shoulders, and slid her legs into the straps. He slid his legs in as well, pulling close behind her, and tightened the holds. Thorn took to the air majestically, Murtagh pulled Reilyn to him, allowing his shoulder to become a pillow, and she settled into him, quickly falling asleep. He put his cloak up around her to help keep her warm and savored the warmth she provided him.
Brave one, how is she? Thorn asked.
Sleeping, he smiled, burying his face in her. And very warm. . .
Mmmm, Thorn chuckled. You'll have your bed under you soon enough. . .
Good, he sighed, yawning lightly.
Three hours later, they were arriving at the castle, Murtagh had Thorn circle twice so he could get Reilyn's legs out of the straps, and he cradled her to his chest as they landed. He covered her more efficiently with the cloak, leaving his beast to be unsaddled by the servants, and quickly made his way to his wing, without waiting for Eragon. Vanessa was tending the fire in his room when he walked in and she hid her tears as she looked to Reilyn.
"Sir Murtagh, I'm so sorry--," she began.
"Murtagh? Are we home?" Reilyn asked sleepily, he whispered that they were and she went back to sleep.
"Oh my god!" Vannie breathed, going pale.
"Vanessa, sit down," he ordered as he gently got Reilyn into bed. She sat, eyes wide and focused on the undead girl, and he faced her. "As you can see, she's alive. . .I don't care to explain how, but she is. . .And no one but myself, Eragon, and you know. . ."
"I won't tell a soul," she murmured.
"Good," he smiled. "Now, there will be a funeral for her in the morning. . ." He took his time explaining things to her, giving her strict orders, and then dismissed her.
Well, that's one thing taken care of, he thought, changing for bed.
"Vanessa knows, I take it?" Eragon asked in amusement. "She just told me that you wanted this?" he held up a wooden training dummy.
"For the funeral," he said, tying his pants. "I'll use a glamour to make it look like Rei. . .But first, I'm getting some rest. . .As you should. . .We have a very long day ahead of us. . ."
"Oh, right," he sighed, setting the dummy in a corner, and changing for bed.
They climbed into the bed, covering up with the many warm blankets, and he pulled Reilyn to him. The girl sighed, squirming against him, and he soon fell into a much needed rest.
Well, there you have it! Another chapter!!! Seems like this muse won in the battle of my muses, but I'm also working on the Four Brothers story too, so don't worry. . .Drop me a review please!!!