Sup guys? Been a while since I posted anything here, but i decided to work on something new thats a bit more SFW than my usual stuff. A reworking of Brisingr from the Inheritance cycle. A few major chasnges you need to know right off the Bat:

This picks up about 3 weeks AFTER the Battle of the Burning Plains.

Roran and Eragon havent quite made peace yet with constant attacks preventing them from doing so.

Katrina HASN't been rescued yet.

Thorn is MUCH older than he was in Book 2. Closer to Saphira's age in Farthen Dur

The Elves have arrived in the Varden earlier than anticipated.

The Real idea of this is how would Book 3 look had Murtagh and Thorn somehow been freed by The Varden After Murtagh's big reveal. Let me know what you all think!

Eragon sighed softly as he stretched, the weariness of the last week once again making itself known. Between the countless attacks by the Empire and the constant rumors of Murtagh Sightings, he was exhausted both physically and mentally. Saphira eyed him for a moment as she lay outside their tent as he walked out and Towards Nasauada's tent. He passed her guard with a curt nod and approached her. Much like him, she seemed tired. "Let me guess, Murtagh and Thorn were spotted somewhere doing some vague thing of little to no merit but we have to take it seriously?" Nasuada smiled in amusement. "Would you expect anything else?" Eragon thought for a moment. "Honestly I'd prefer a blatant lie to the 'intel' we're being fed." Nasuada smirked. "My Intel tells me Saphira inexplicably turned Aquamarine and then Orange for about an hour today." Eragon laughed. "That was a terrible lie…"

"Well, you said that's what you prefer." Eragon sighed. "Alright, what's this Intel?"

"The Castle in Urubaen. It appeared they were hesitant to land, they circled about a dozen times overhead but they did inevitably land. So yes.. little to no merit on anything we are doing but it's the most realistic Intel we've received."

Murtagh gave a shaking sigh that became a grunt as Galbatorix silently placed the bloodied whip back on the table of unspeakable tools he'd used on Murtagh in the last year. With a word in the ancient language, the bonds suspending him from the ceiling released and he crumpled to the ground with a groan. "Let this be a lesson boy. I expect my orders to be followed." Murtagh slowly stood, his back protesting every minor movement with an explosion of pain. He felt Thorn attempt to contact him for a moment but Murtagh further pushed him back, not wanting his punishment known yet. "My apologies, your Majesty." He said with a poor attempt at a bow. The pain far too great to fully do so. The King eyed him for a moment as he struggled to remain upright. Almost cruelly making him wait longer as Murtagh swayed in weakness while attempting to stand at attention. "You may go. I'll have new orders for you shortly, Murtagh." Silently Murtagh gave a similar bow again before grabbing his Tunic and cloak. He stepped outside before Silently sliding the fabric over his scourged back, resisting the urge to cry out in agony as the fabric grazed against the wounds. He knew it was foolish, but he'd come to be almost embarrassed by how often he was tortured by the King after a mission. He refused to let anyone see him like this. Call it foolish or prideful, but he hated anyone seeing him as weak. He could immediately feel his tunic soak up the blood as he covered himself with the cloak, groaning in pain as he did so. Silently he stumbled to the staircase before leaning against the wall of it as he climbed. He was almost relieved there were no guards or servants to see him. After what felt like an eternity he reached the level he and Thorn shared a room on. With great effort he straightened himself and slowly made his way down the corridor, each movement drawing more strength than the last. A passing servant stopped as he approached eying Murtagh before bowing deeply. "Shurtugal.. are you.. well?" Murtagh eyed him wearily. He wore little more than a pair of leggings and bore multiple scars across his chest and back. A large bite mark ran from his shoulder to his pectoral muscle. He knew the servant well. The lack of a tunic or Boots didn't surprise Murtagh. He had never worn them for as long as Murtagh had known him. The servant quickly stepped forward as Murtagh nearly collapsed. He caught himself before the servant reached him, but didn't protest as he gripped Murtagh under his arms for support. "Just… the usual." His voice sounded scratchy as he spoke. The servant gave a sympathetic look before wrapping Murtagh's arm over his neck. Gently he stood, allowing Murtagh's body to lean against him. "You really must stop angering the King my lord.. one of these days he's going to kill you." Murtagh laughed bitterly. "Where would the fun be in that, Ionakana?" The servant regarded him for a moment. "Look, I understand your position Sir, but.. We do what we must to survive. Even I, the last of my kind, do what I must. Do you truly think I want to go about as a method of execution? Or a practice target for sparring because I have the ability to heal? No. I dread it, but I do so because I know it will be my son if I don't." Murtagh silently listened as the Servant talked. Ionakana was to their knowledge one of the last of the Werewolves. The only other they knew of was a young boy, his son. He'd been a constant ally to Murtagh this last year, often tending to him following the King's tortures. "You're right my friend.. I just… I don't want them to lose. Eragon is the last hope we have and… if the king gets his hands on him.."

"Then he will do what he must. Forgive me for sounding cruel sir but.. Do you truly believe that Eragon has not considered a strategy for his possible capture? It is not your duty to protect him. He has the Elves and Varden for that. All you are succeeding in doing is punishing yourself needlessly." Murtagh considered Ionakana's words momentarily. "I just.. I have experienced firsthand what the King will do… My fight or not Eragon is my only family. I would take a million lashes and Tortures before I see him suffer one of the King's interrogations. Call me a fool if you will.. But I refuse to allow such pain to befall him."

Ionakana scoffed slightly. "You act as though I wasn't the one to tend to you following those tortures. I too have seen it firsthand, Murtagh. Still.. if there is something I understand it's protecting family. I may not agree, but I understand." Ionakana said as he opened the door to Murtagh's chambers. Thorn eyed the two for a moment. He sniffed at the air and gave a mournful look at Murtagh as Ionakana gently helped him to the wash pit. Silently he activated the lever drawing hot water into it before slowly helping Murtagh undress. As Murtagh's back was bared, Thorn growled in anger. The tunic had been soaked in Murtagh's blood. Various lines of dark crimson crossed Murtagh's back, rivulets of blood soaking further into the Black leggings he wore as they trickled from the wounds. The already scarred skin around them was once again bruised severely. Silently Ionakana stripped off the rest of Murtagh's clothing and lowered him into the water. And onto a ledge lining the pit. Murtagh groaned softly as the heated water met his scourged back. Immediately the water began tinting red as Ionakana gently washed the Rider's back, drawing further unintentional pain as Thorn again attempted to speak with him. This time Murtagh opened the link, welcoming the vast comforting presence of the Ruby Dragon. 'Why?' The simple word held so many different questions at once. Why must we suffer? Why is this our life? Why were you whipped? Why are we not free? Silently Murtagh responded. "The King demanded we aid the soldiers in combat. He never asked us to help them win." A sense of amusement filtered through the link. 'He is getting sloppy.' Murtagh cried out as Ionakana grazed against a particularly painful lash near his spine. Thorn too growled as the pain filtered through their link. "Apologies." Ionakana said softly before continuing. Tears for a moment stung at Murtagh's eyes, but he pushed them back. Refusing to allow himself to be controlled by his emotions. Thorn silently approached and pressed his head to Murtagh's bare chest gently nuzzling the Rider in an attempt to comfort him. Murtagh smiled softly and wrapped his arms around the dragon. "I'll be okay, Thorn.. I'm just.. very tired. Don't worry." Thorn silently eyed him before lying down and allowing Murtagh to silently hold him. Deep down he knew that it was a lie. The same lie he'd been told since he was freshly hatched. "I'm just tired, it's not as bad as it looks. It really doesn't hurt that badly.." He knew Murtagh simply didn't want him to worry, but it didn't ease his concern. 'How many?' Murtagh winced before responding. "I don't know… he didn't count and I lost count at 25," Thorn growled in anger, before gently flicking his tongue against Murtagh's chest. 'I am sorry my friend… I shouldn't have left you.'

"It would have made no difference if you stayed.. you know that. Besides, he told you to leave. We both knew what he was going to do." Thorn silently regarded Murtagh before curling his head around to see Ionakana's progress. The lashes were deep. Many crossed each other and Though they looked far better than they had, he grew even angrier at the sight of them. "They're no worse than they normally are, Thorn. He'll be fine." Ionakana said. His Tone held a combination of annoyance and anger, though Thorn knew it was directed at neither he nor Murtagh. 'Thank you Ionakana. We do appreciate your help.' Silently Ionakana finished washing his back and stood. He silently grabbed a towel and with Thorn's help aided Murtagh in getting out of the Bath before drying him off and getting him into a pair of leggings. He next helped him to the bed. After sitting Murtagh on the edge of it he then walked over to a small cupboard across the room. He opened it and returned with the familiar jar and bandages Murtagh had come to know whenever he was tortured. Silently Ionakana dipped his hand into the jar and scooped out a thick dark green paste. It smelled foul but Murtagh knew he would feel much better in a few moments. Gently Ionakana rubbed the paste into Murtagh's wounds before dressing them. Immediately the pain diminished to a dull ache. He'd be able to at least move and walk but too much would bring great pain. "I'm sure I don't need to tell you what to do?" Murtagh rolled his eyes. "Change the bandages each night and take the Blue vial. Not the red, the blue." Ionakana smiled, exposing long bicuspids that were indicative of his kind. "Alright. I'll be by later to check on you again." Ionakana said softly before bowing and leaving.

Murtagh slowly stood as Thorn watched him wearily. 'You should stay in bed.'

"I'm fine. Besides, if I know Galbatorix we'll be sent out on more orders by Nightfall anyway.." Thorn growled as he spoke. 'All the more reason for you to sleep and try to regain your strength. What good will it do you to go into combat with fresh Lash Marks and no energy? You barely managed to hide it against Eragon.'

Hopefully it kills me. He hid the thought as he smiled bitterly and turned. "I know, but-"

'There are no "buts". You need your rest. Now come. Lay with me if you so desire. Or lie in your bed. Regardless, you aren't going anywhere but to sleep.' Murtagh smiled and slowly made his way to Thorn. Silently he lay between his forelegs as Thorn curled his neck in a way that his head lay in Murtagh's lap. "Doesn't that hurt? It looks… really unnatural."

'No. Ebrithil Shruikan has been quite adamant in making me more flexible. He says it will be beneficial in combat. This is simply a bonus.' Murtagh sighed as the heat in Thorn's chest radiated through him. He sleepily rubbed a hand over Thorn's head, exhaustion finally taking over his body. "I love you, Thorn." Thorn gently nuzzled him as he responded. 'As I you, Murtagh. Rest. I will stay guard and wake you should something happen.' with that Murtagh faded into slumber.

He awoke hours later as Thorn gently nudged him. 'The king requests us in the Throne room. He has orders for us.' Murtagh winced as he stood, his back again protesting with a burst of Pain. 'Do you need help dressing?' Thorn asked as Murtagh shook his head. "No. I'll be alright. Did he want me to saddle you?"

'He did. Which means you should get your sword and armor as well. He'll likely send us to wherever we're going immediately.' Murtagh silently grabbed the lighter of the two saddles he'd been given by Galbatorix. He silently placed it on Thorn before also connecting two packs with Thorn's help. One held his armor, the other spare clothing, and the Eldunari assigned him. He then silently dressed in an Emerald Tunic made of silk, the fabric was light and smooth. He'd learned long ago to dress in clothing of silk with fresh lashes as they were less likely to catch. He next pulled on a pair of black boots and clasped a black and Red cloak around his neck. He strapped Zar'oc to his waist and stood. He picked up the vial Ionakana left and downed the bitter liquid. He next immediately grabbed a bottle of Alcohol and downed a half dozen mouthfuls of it. He poured more into a silver flask before silently corking it and sliding the flask into a pouch on his belt. "Can I ride you down? I don't trust myself to walk at the moment." Thorn dipped his head in silent confirmation as Murtagh silently climbed into the saddle. He strapped himself in as Thorn flew out of the entrance built for him. "What?" Murtagh asked as Thorn circled the castle a moment. 'Something is bothering you, and we both know it isn't just your back.' Murtagh remained stoic as he responded. "I'm fine."

'No, you AREN'T. Did you think I missed the alcohol? You always drink when something bothers you. Now speak Rider.' Murtagh sighed. "I'm just.. Thorn, I'm not sure how much longer I can keep this up. Ionakana's right. I'm killing myself by going through these tortures. But if I don't.."

'Then Eragon will..' Thorn finished as Murtagh nodded. 'We are but a temporary pawn in this war, Murtagh. As long as we continue to fight, we will survive. Do not let your spirit sway. I will fight so long as you do.' With that, he landed shortly after in front of the entrance to the Throne Room. The doors swung open as Thorn walked down the long corridor. "So what do you think the odds are that we're going after Eragon again?" Thorn thought for a moment. 'High. The King grows more restless over your Hatchmate every day.' A second set of doors swung open revealing the throne room. Silently Thorn and Murtagh entered. They approached the King hesitantly, memories of pain and anguish flashing through both their minds in this accursed room. Thorn lowered himself down onto his forelegs as Murtagh silently dismounted and knelt himself, his head bowed and a hand clutched to his breast in a fist as the King stared at him. An uncomfortable silence passed between them for a moment. "How are you feeling Murtagh?" A momentary flash of anger crossed Murtagh's face before he regained his neutral expression. How the hell do you think? "Well enough my Liege." Galbatorix seemed to smile for a moment. "Splendid. Murtagh as I told Thorn, I have new orders for you." He spoke Thorn and Murtagh's names in the ancient language. Murtagh Shuddered in discomfort as Thorn audibly growled. "I want you to lead an attack on the Varden. The target is your brother and his Dragon. You are to capture him and bring him to me. If you fail me, Murtagh.. it had better be because you are dead or dying. Am I clear?" Murtagh silently lifted his gaze, a slight glimmer in his eye. "Yes, my king." Galbatorix smiled "You'll find them on the Burning Plains. Go and bring forth a new era of peace for all of Alegeasea!"

"For the King, long may he reign." Murtagh replied. He felt ill saying the words but stood and began mounting Thorn before turning. He stopped suddenly, a thought filling his head. "Ebrithil.. I.. have a request." Galbatorix regarded him for a moment. With a wave of his hand, he said "Speak."

"I'd like to take Ionakana with me. He seemed rather concerned about a few of my lashes and I'd prefer he be with me in case I need tending to." Galbatorix glared at the Rider as though he were annoyed at such a trivial request. "Go. You may take him with you."

Murtagh silently bowed and mounted Thorn trying terribly not to smile. As he and Thorn exited into the courtyard he allowed his giddiness to reach Thorn. For a moment the Dragon feared his rider had gone insane. "That's it! That's it! THAT'S IT! I finally know what to do!"

'Have you gone mad? What are you rambling about?'

"Don't you see Thorn?! We're FREE!" Thorn looked back confused at his rider before Murtagh quickly ran through his plan. One that had formulated in seconds. But as the plan was revealed Thorn met his giddiness with apprehension. 'IF your plan works, we will be prisoners, left to be tortured for more information than we can give. If it doesn't you will be dead, and I will likely join you. Are you sure this is worth an attempt?'

"No matter what, we're prisoners left to be tortured. But this gives us an opportunity to be free. If we pull this off, perhaps Eragon can find a way." Quickly Murtagh mentally touched Ionakana's mind. A wild beasteal consciousness touched back for a moment before being overtaken by a more human feeling mind. "Yes my Lord?"

"Meet us at the courtyard. Bring your son and whatever you need to tend to me. Nothing more and hurry."

"As you command." Within minutes Ionakana appeared wearing a Leather loincloth that reached his knees and a fur vest. Leather sandals adorned his feet, and a greatsword was strapped to his back. The boy was dressed similarly, with a dagger at his waist. Silently Ionakana approached and bowed deeply. "Let's go. I have to speak to you privately." Murtagh said, lifting Ionakana onto Thorn's back. His son sat between the two, as Thorn launched into the air. "What's happening, sir?" Ionakana asked. "A hope…" He told Ionakana of the orders he'd been given word for word. Before excitedly saying. "If I am dead or dying, I may fail. Those were his words. The other order he gave us when he first enslaved us We can only surrender if I am on death's door. I think he forgot about it. I.. WE can be free." Ionakana sat silent for a moment. "It's reckless. Irresponsible. Foolish… but, it is possible. You may be right. But how do you intend to be gravely injured? Galbatorix will not allow you to harm each other or yourself." Murtagh thought for a moment he'd been so occupied with the thought of the order he hadn't considered the option. 'Archers are bound to fire upon us. Should Murtagh be hit or I fall from the sky, the injury could occur.' Thorn said as Murtagh silently thought. "That's one part of it.. but we'd still be forced to avoid." 'Similar patterns are easy to hit.' Ionakana glanced at his son. The boy gazed down at the ground in astonishment as it whizzed by. "So long as we protect Kimo, I welcome this plan." Murtagh smiled. "So do I."

Eragon silently walked through the camp. Morale had been low since the death of Hrothgar and the many deaths on the Burning Plains. He did his best to tend to those that needed it but with his appearance, many were quite hesitant to allow his aid. He silently approached Roran's tent for but a moment. With a sigh, he knocked on the pole and waited. Roran poked his head out and sighed as he saw his cousin. The two hadn't talked since Carvahall appeared during the battle. Neither man said a word for a moment until Eragon broke the silence. "Can we speak or would you rather punch me again?" Roran laughed softly before responding "Don't tempt me." Eragon stepped into the tent as Roran walked over to his cot. He sat with a groan as Eragon sat next to him on a chair nearby. "How have you been, Roran?" Roran chuckled ruefully. "Well let's see, Our home is gone, Father is dead, you disappeared, and my future wife is being held captive by monsterous creatures that may have eaten her alive! I'm doing just fine!" Eragon winced. "I'm sorry. I know that means nothing right now but.. if I can explain…" He faltered. "That night.. when Garrow died I.. I saw them. The Ra'zac. When I told Saphira she.. she went mental. She kept screaming and the things she said made no sense at the time. I tried to calm her. I was scared that they would find her and by extension Garrow and I. So I did what I could to calm her. I climbed on her to try to get her to pay attention to me and she took off. That's when she told me they were assassins. I begged her, pleaded with her to go back to get Garrow but.. she refused. By the time we got back…" Tears fell from his eyes as Garrow's broken body flashed in his mind. "I was angry. Furious at what they'd done. I swore revenge. That I would hunt them down and kill them. That's why I left."

"And then you were hunted in turn." Eragon nodded. "Well, I-" He was cut off as Attack horns sounded through the camp. Saphira entered Both their minds. 'Murtagh and Thorn approach. They are well past the Empire's camp.' Eragon swore and rushed out. He ran to the edge of the camp as he saw the red dragon flying toward the Varden. The Dragon was well within striking distance, he circled almost directly overhead. "Archers at the ready!" Came a cry from a captain nearby. A hundred feet away. He noted Arya aim her bow. He also pulled his own as Roran and Saphira rushed to his side. He mentally kicked himself for not having kept her saddled in case of an attack. "Hold!" Silence roared throughout the camp, the only noise that of Thorn's Wings and A growl from Saphira. "Hold!" They were closer now, dipping lower. "Surrender Eragon. We don't want any more bloodshed than is necessary." Murtagh called from atop Thorn's back, the ancient language amplifying his voice for all to hear. Eragon scowled at his once friend. Saphira roared in anger as Thorn released a jet of flame directly overhead in response. "Fire!" A volley of arrows and spears flew through the air. Eragon watched as Thorn avoided each with various aerial maneuvers. He released yet another jet of flame. "Fire!" Another Volley. Thorn made the exact same maneuvers in the same pattern as he continued downward, more fire being shot, but passing just over their heads. Eragon heard a pained roar as a few arrows pierced his wings, and two spears pierced his stomach and foreleg. "FIRE!" Another Volley, The same maneuvers. 'Little one..' Saphira said as Eragon replied. " I see it too.. Thorn roared, more arrows piercing his body and another spear, this one in his neck. "What is he doing?" Eragon asked, both mentally and verbally. He noted Arya staring in a bewildered manner as well. "Fir-"

"HOLD!" Arya's voice pierced the air. Eragon approached. "What are they doing?" She asked as Thorn circled again for a moment. "I don't-" A jet of flame suddenly flowed over their heads, catching several tents on fire. Another Volley of arrows fired off in response. Eragon heard Thorn groan in pain before a consciousness touched his own. He fortified his mind as the mind remained. Lightly pressing against his barriers. Yet he could tell it was easily strong enough to break through. He slowly lowered the barrier enough to hear. 'We.. surrender.'

"HOLD FIRE! HOLD!" Eragon shouted as Thorn spiraled down to the ground barely landing before falling to the ground. He noted 3 upon his back for the first time. One was slumped forward, another was feverously attempting to aid the slumped rider. "Roran on me. I need 10 of you, on me! We take them alive!" The men Rallied around them Bows, swords, and spears at the ready as Roran drew his Hammer. Slowly they approached, their weapons pointed at the Dragon. 'Shadeslayer.. please… Murtagh.. he is dying…' Thorn begged as Eragon swore. He rushed forward as the other rider Raised his hands in surrender. Eragon ignored him as he heard a child crying. Looking at Thorn he realized the 3rd rider had been a young boy. The child seemed no worse for the wear, just frightened of what had happened. "He's hit 4 times. Twice in his chest!" The Other man said, still holding his hands in surrender. He seemed calm as a sword was pressed to his neck. Eragon silently examined his brother. To his shock, Murtagh wasn't even armored. Blood dripped from two arrow Piercings in his chest. His back seemed to also be bleeding heavily but from what he had no idea. His right leg was also pierced by an arrow. Another embedded itself in his left shoulder near the joint. A group of elves came running forward. They had arrived only two days prior. Together they set to work pulling Murtagh from the saddle. As one cut the tunic from Murtagh's body they gasped at what they saw.

Murtagh groaned as he finally woke. Quickly he became aware of the soft furs covering his naked body. The rough scratchy bandages that had covered him were gone, replaced by a softer lighter fabric. He slowly began to sit up before a soft yet firm hand pushed him back down. "What is it with you two and immediately getting up after traumatic back injuries?" He immediately recognized the voice. "Angela.. it's been a while."

"Yes. Now stay still. Even with the elves' aid, we have yet to be able to fully heal you. Eragon exhausted himself tending to Thorn alone." At that Murtagh started. "Thorn! Is he okay? How are his.."

"He'll be fine 'Taugh. He's weak but he's going to live." Eragon said as he entered the tent. He looked completely exhausted as he approached the cot. Murtagh turned his head away a feeling of shame welling up inside him. "Angela, can you give us a moment alone?"

"Course! Just keep him in his bed, I have an experiment to get to anyway. I'm this close to a breakthrough in my Toad research!" Angela said as she stepped out. Eragon spoke a few words in the ancient language before turning to Murtagh. He still hadn't looked at him. "If you've anything to say feel free. Nobody can hear us at the moment." Murtagh lay silent as Eragon sat on a stool next to his bedside. "You know.. you've caused quite the uproar the last few days. I've never seen the Varden argue so much about one person." Murtagh continued to stare at the wall of the tent. "Listen, Murtagh… I don't blame you for what happened… if the scars on your body are anything to go by.."

"Don't." The word was so soft Eragon questioned if he'd even heard it at all. "Don't what?" Murtagh turned his head to face Eragon, scowling angrily. "Don't you dare pity me. I don't need your pity." Eragon leaned back on his stool for a moment in thought. He suddenly chuckled softly. "What's so funny?" Eragon chuckled again before speaking "Remember when we made camp the night after we rescued Arya? You were so proud that you got a headshot and you kept making a big deal of how great you were. You may be a dragon rider but I killed the shade!" Murtagh let a smile cross his lips. "Well, how the hell was I supposed to know?! Ha! Hey, remember when you thought you could lift that firewood with your broken ribs?" It was Eragon's turn to laugh. "Worst decision EVER! Felt like I was being stabbed!"

"Oh don't worry Murtagh! I've got it!" Murtagh said before dramatically clutching his side. The two laughed again as they revelled in their journey together. "I've been a bastard haven't I?" Murtagh silently said as Eragon cocked his head in agreement. "To put it one way.." Murtagh shook his head before sitting up. "Why the hell are we doing this?"

"Doing what?"

"Acting like we're still friends! I tried to KILL YOU!" Eragon sat silent. "Why'd you even save me? Why am I even here? I feel like I'm losing my damn mind!" Eragon laid a hand on Murtagh's shoulder. "Murtagh… I saved you because I want to help you. Do you realize how guilty I've felt since the Battle?" Murtagh looked at Eragon with an expression of Sadness and anger. "I am sorry Murtagh.. truly I am.. we had no idea the twins were traitors. When we searched that tunnel all they found was your Tunic.. we thought.. we thought you were dead. If I'd have known I.."

"Just stop with that. Do you really think that I believe that? That you stopped looking because you found my tunic?!" Eragon sat silent for a moment. "I swear to you. We thought you died." He said in the ancient language. Murtagh sat stunned.. for the last year he'd been angry, miserable, and bitter, yet had held to a slim hope that Eragon would help him. And now that he had he'd yelled at him like he was some sort of monster. Tears stung his eyes as A year's worth of torture and hatred came to the surface. All at once the dam he'd built up for a year shattered. His body shook with the force of his sobs as Eragon wrapped his arms around him and gently held him. Neither said a word. Eragon simply held him as he cried. To Murtagh, it was almost cathartic. He had denied himself the ability to feel for so long he almost felt comfort as he cried, not from Eragon, but from the emotion itself. After a few minutes, the two pulled away as Murtagh wiped his eyes. "I'm sorry.. I'm so sorry, Eragon.."

"You did nothing wrong.."

"I tried to.. that's the thing.. If I'd taken you to Galbatorix, you'd have faced the same as I. And in a way, I wanted you to." Eragon sat stunned as Murtagh continued. "I was so… angry at you.. I wanted you to suffer like I had because I thought.. I thought you betrayed me.. that you just left me to be tortured.. I.." He broke down again as Eragon sat silently. "Murtagh thought I'd do that to him?!"

'He has been through much, little one. You can only hold out hope for so long under the great pains he suffered. Do not hold this against him. He needs you. He needs both of us.' Saphira spoke as Eragon silently agreed. "How much did you mean when we fought?" Eragon asked after Murtagh had calmed. Murtagh glanced at him. "Probably half of it… I do.. I like his idea of restarting the order. I AM your brother, and I DID want to take you in.. if it weren't for Thorn, And him realizing that we had tried and succeeded, I probably would have. All the rest was out of anger. I've carried so much hatred towards you for so long now and.. now that I.." He fought back more tears before speaking. "Now that I realize you didn't just leave me.. I'm sorry." Eragon wiped a few tears away himself. "Look.. I suppose you want to know what happened. Why I did what I did?" Eragon sat silently waiting for Murtagh to continue. "Go and retrieve Your leader Eragon. And anyone you feel should know. I don't want to tell this story any more than once." Eragon sat for a moment before asking Saphira to send the necessary Varden Members.

Within moments Nasuada, Arya, King Orinn, Orik, Jömundur, and Trianna all entered. They each sat silently for a moment as Eragon explained why he had asked them to join him. As he finished Murtagh began. "I can't tell you everything. I know that's not what you want to hear but it's true. Galbatorix has placed Spells upon Thorn and me. Even under torture, I cannot reveal certain things. So I will tell you what I am able. The Twins were behind the ambush in Farthen Dur. They were agents of Galbatorix and their goal was to…" He stopped as though something was constricting his throat. "I'm sorry. I'm sure you can guess their goal at this point." He said staring directly at Eragon. Eragon nodded. "To allow Durza to capture me." Murtagh continued. "When that goal failed they were given new orders. To bring the son of Morzan to the King and to cripple the Varden as best they could. They succeeded in both objectives… I'm sorry." He said as he glanced at Nasuada. King Orrin and Trianna stood stunned at the reception that Murtagh was Morzan's son. "I don't remember being taken out of Farthen Dur, they had knocked me unconscious. But when I awoke, I had been stripped to my breeches and shackled. A carriage was carrying us to the coast. From there I was taken aboard a ship where my torture began. They began by attempting to break into my mind. It felt like an eternity. I fought so hard to keep them out. It was excruciating but, I managed to prevail. After they realized they couldn't break into my mind, They resorted to torturing me with magic. After that, I was left in a cell for a long time. Every inch of me hurt and I was freezing. When we made ground I was taken directly to the King…" another pause. "I can't tell you where. He immediately ordered me taken to be interrogated. He wanted everything I knew. This began months of torture. Floggings, burnings, brandings, broken bones and.. methods I choose to never relive again, or even reveal to Thorn.. though on certain nights I'm certain he knew exactly what happened." He glanced at Arya who gave a sympathetic knowing look to Murtagh. "Throughout it all, I refused to give any sort of information to him. I was prepared to die if it meant protecting all of you. One night the King seemed… almost excited to torture me. Normally he acted… annoyed or even sympathetic as though he didn't want to hurt me but it was this necessary plan in his mind. He believes us. Eragon and I… to be HIS Riders. Members of his new Order. That night...He never asked anything as I was flogged. Never said a word as Brands burned my flesh. By the time it was over I could barely move or even breathe properly. He left but then came back with… with two eggs. I knew immediately why he was so excited and it terrified me. I begged for them not to hatch. Unfortunately…" He closed his eyes as tears formed again. The thought of Thorn haphazardly crawling to him before growling in pain as they linked the first time as he gave him the Gedwey Ignasia. "After that, the torture only got worse. Every night I was beaten to near death. It was at that point I was too weak to defend my mind. More than once my torture consisted of trying to shield the Hatchling, while whips and brands tore at my flesh. I couldn't figure out why Galbatorix was trying to separate us, but I refused to allow any harm to come to Thorn. After a while I.. knew something was changing. The torture was becoming less frequent. I was being left longer alone with Thorn and.. trying my best to keep him safe. My only mistake had been falling asleep. When I awoke Thorn was gone and in agony. It felt like my body was being torn apart and I could hear Thorn screaming through our link.." Murtagh scowled. "When I next saw him… he wasn't the same size. He was larger.. big enough to ride, but… he was unnatural looking. His wings were too big and his legs were the same. It was that day that Galbatorix enslaved us." Nasuada spoke softly. "How?" Murtagh sighed mournfully… "He found out our names in the ancient language."

Nasuada looked to Arya who bore a look of deep sorrow. "When someone else learns your name in the ancient language.. your true name, they can force you to do anything they desire. you are completely unable to resist." She said softly as Murtagh continued "We were forced to swear oath after oath. Anything he could come up with to further enslave us. Afterward, he began training me in magic.. forcing me to defend myself against spells or get harmed. Forcing me to perform in combat after being tortured again. Everything he put me through he claimed was to make me stronger. In a way he was right." He laughed bitterly. "I became stronger because I had to give my all simply to survive. It was agony. Then he taught me how to" again his voice was cut off as though he were being strangled again. He threw his pillow in anger, as his voice was choked off for almost 10 minutes at whatever he had tried to say. Everything from The King's strategies to even specific spells including the death spell he'd used on King Hrothgar were prevented. His Ildunari were also forced to remain hidden. He reached the Battle of the Burning Plains. "We figured out that.. that we could circumvent certain orders if they had two meanings. For instance, Go and destroy the red house. But there are two red houses. I know which house he wants to be destroyed but I can destroy the other to save the target. I was ordered to kill the King of the Varden. Another attempt at injecting chaos by the King. The twins seemed to be positive that Jörmundur was the new leader. My goal was not to completely cripple the Varden. I ALWAYS wanted you to succeed. But.. I was bound to do so.. I. I knew Hrothgar wasn't the leader and it pained me to take his life but… I had to do so. He WAS a King and a member of the Varden. It was the only way to… circumvent the command. It is no excuse and I don't expect to be forgiven in any way.." Orik stood with a stern look. "I tried to insure he'd feel no pain. That he'd simply cease to be but.."

"What spell did you use boy?" Murtagh's voice choked again before Eragon spoke. "It's one of two things… a spell specifically designed to instantly kill someone, or he utilized Lightning to take his life. Either would kill him and everyone near him who was trying to prevent his death." Orik stood shaking with anger but seemed to accept the explanation as finally, Murtagh found he could speak again. He gave an appreciative look to Eragon for saying what he couldn't. He reached the point of his escape. "After the burning Plains, the King was livid. He knew I hadn't killed their leader and Thorn and I were punished severely. I was tortured for 3 days straight and… Thorn was punished similarly. I'm not sure exactly what happened to him, but, I could feel his pain. Our other orders, as you know, were to TRY to defeat you. I DID defeat you but not bring you in as the King intended. After our Torture, we were given a day to recover. About a week ago we were ordered to aid the Empire in combat.. we did so by killing a total of 20, unlike the entire battalion as the King intended. That's.. how I got my most recent marks. A few days ago.. we were given a new Order. To Capture You and bring you to the King. We could only fail if I were dead or dying. Thorn and I formulated a plan. Long ago we were forced to swear that we would never surrender lest our lives are at risk. Galbatorix is mad but he knew without me and Thorn alive.. he'd be severely underprepared. With this order and the one before, we could surrender to the Varden." Each member stood stunned momentarily, realizing that they had unwittingly aided in a very complex intentional surrender. "Eragon. I beg of you. help us. We are still under his control and we have very little time to act. As soon as he figures out what has happened he WILL send more men. He may even come himself, and I will not be able to help." Nasuada stepped forward. "IS there a way to break his oaths and free him?" Arya thought for a moment. "It.. MAY be possible. But… There is only one I know who may have the answers we seek. Eragon.. we must speak with.." she eyed Murtagh momentarily. "Your friends in Du Weldenvarden." Eragon nodded silently. "I'll contact them at once. Hopefully, we can figure out a strategy to free you." He bowed to Nasuada and Orrin before leaving. "In the meantime Murtagh you are hereby under arrest until we can figure out a way to free you. We.. may have to sentence you to punishment but. I don't know what it may be." Murtagh was stoic as he replied. "I will take whatever punishment you see fit. As I said, I do not expect any forgiveness." He thought for a moment before speaking. "Is Thorn alright? I haven't heard him or felt him since I woke.." Nasuada sat down for a moment. "We have had as many healers as possible tending to him, including Eragon. The spear that pierced his neck nearly caused him to bleed out. The wound has been mended but for reasons we can't explain, he hasn't woken. In the meantime, the Elves we have on hand have been attempting to mend the irregularities in his body." Murtagh felt relieved at the news. Though he was concerned for Thorn he was glad that the pains from Galbatorix's unnatural growth spell would be put to an end. "Is there any way I could see him?" Nasuada started to say something before she was cut off. "Absolutely not! You're lucky to be receiving visitors at all after what you have done!" The man wore a white tunic with a flowing blue cape and golden accents. His leggings were a matching shade of blue. "If what you have told us is even the slightest bit true, we shall consider it. In the meantime, you are a prisoner and shall be treated as such. Am I clear?" Nasuada gave an infuriated look to the man, before turning to Murtagh. "Unfortunately… King Orrin is right.. you've given us what information you are able. But as of Right now we cannot allow you to leave this tent. As soon as we clear up your enslavement, we will allow you to see him." Murtagh bowed his head in silent confirmation. "As you wish. I do however request you keep me informed on his condition. If nothing more I want to know he's okay." Before Orrin could respond Arya stepped forward. "I will be glad to give you updates, Murtagh. If I am unable I will send an elf who is." The King glared at Arya but otherwise said nothing as the group silently exited the tent. Before leaving the King turned to face Murtagh. "You may have fooled them with that sob story boy, but you don't fool me."

Eragon sat in his tent staring into a bowl of water. "And that's the story. Do you think there's any chance we can free him?" Oromis sat silently for a moment, a look of contemplation on his mind. "There… MAY be one way.. but it is not easy. Your brother is a name slave. If he were to drastically change something about himself.. he could be freed. It would have to be a drastic change to his personality to change his True Name. Something very few have successfully ever done."

"Ebrithil, is there not a spell we could try? He is desperate and with respect, I don't think we have time for Murtagh to change his True Name that quickly." Oromis sat for a moment, staring off as though listening to someone. "There… Might be one other way.. but it would be no better than what Galbatorix has done to him already." Eragon sat silent as Oromis continued. "If.. you were to figure out his true name, or he were willing to tell you, you could force him to join you against the King and break his oaths. However, using one's true name who has already been enslaved by someone has never been attempted. In theory, it should work. But this is a very complex matter." Eragon sighed. "None of these are very practical.." Oromis nodded in agreement. "I apologize. I know neither of these is what you want to hear. But they are the only options I can give you…" He stopped suddenly before sighing as an audible Growl could be heard. "There… is one other way. I withheld it because I do not think you are ready... However, Glaedr is right. Desperate times are upon us. Before I tell you this method you must swear never to use it for any reason other than against Galbatorix and his men. And that you will reveal it to no one, not even Arya. It has been a closely guarded secret of our Order and not even Galbatorix likely knows of it." Eragon sat for a moment before asking, "I don't mean to disrespect you, but should I get Murtagh to swear an oath, may I tell him? It seems only right if I'm using it on him he knows." Oromis regarded Eragon in silence. "Very well Eragon, but only if it works properly," Eragon swore in the ancient language not to reveal the method unless an oath of secrecy was sworn. Oromis spoke a series of words in the ancient language. Eragon felt his body tremble at the sound. "That is the true name of the Ancient Language. With it, you can destroy any oath. I cannot guarantee that it will Change one's true name, however, it will break your Brother's oaths that have enslaved him. In terms of speed that is the only method Glaedr and I can give you." Eragon bowed and thanked Oromis before ending the spell as he stood. Arya silently approached him as he stepped out of his tent. "The only options he could give are to use his true name to attempt to counteract what Galbatorix has done or Help him change his personality completely… Neither are viable options at the moment." Arya sighed. "He… did give me another method. I cannot tell you of it, but it is our only option." Arya nodded as the two made their way back to Murtagh's tent.

Murtagh lay silent, he winced as a throb of pain raced down his left arm. He started as Eragon stepped in followed closely by Arya. "Wait outside Arya… please." Arya glanced at Murtagh for a moment before speaking. "I would prefer to remain, however, I will grant your request." She stepped out as Murtagh smiled. "So I guess this is the part where you interrogate me?" Eragon smiled. "Of course not. I have a few options available. Two. I don't find it realistically Viable and the last is.. an experiment at best. If any of them work, you would be free of the oaths you are sworn to. And in time so would Thorn." Murtagh sat up allowing the fur covering him to fall to his waist. "I'd be free?" Eragon sighed. "In theory. I have no idea if it will work. But they are the only options I have. The first is we try to change your true name.. to do so you would have to change something about yourself. It would have to be drastic enough that it changes who you are completely." Murtagh sighed. "That would take years! We don't have that kind of time!"

"I agree. The next I don't like, but it is another option. You tell me your True Name and I attempt to use it to free you. In theory, it may work, but. I don't want to do it any more than you want me to." Murtagh sat silently contemplating the implications. "What's the last?" Eragon stood. "I put you to sleep. Then I use a spell that will break every single oath Glabatorix swore you to. Your true name could still be used against you, but you would be free to do as you wish until he were to do so. The reason I put you to sleep is so you will be unaware of what the spell is. I'm sworn to secrecy." Murtagh stared dumbfounded for a moment. "There's a spell that can do such a thing?" Eragon nodded. Murtagh sat silently contemplating his options. "How will we know if it works?" Eragon thought for a moment. A smile crossed his lips. "Are you still angry at me?" Murtagh glanced at him. "A little bit."

"Swear in the ancient language you won't hit me." Murtagh let out a silent laugh. "Do you truly think I'm that angry?" Eragon shrugged with a smile. "Not really. But if this doesn't work, I don't want to take any chances!" Murtagh chuckled again before making the oath. "See you in a few minutes, Murtagh. Slytha." Murtagh slumped back asleep before, under his breath, Eragon set out speaking the words Oromis had taught him. He spoke Murtagh's name before ordering him to break any oath he chose not to keep. Murtagh moaned in his sleep as his entire body shuddered. Moments later he lay still before Eragon woke him with another word. He groggily stretched. "Well?" Eragon asked as Murtagh sat up slowly. He turned to Eragon before smiling. With a quick movement, he threw a punch catching Eragon in the jaw. Eragon brought his hand to his jaw for a moment before letting out a laugh "You could've just said it worked!" Murtagh joined in his laughter. "You said I could!" A guard stepped in for a moment, sword at the ready at the commotion. Arya followed closely after. Murtagh turned to the two before laughing even harder as the guard held out the sword in front of him, the blade visibly shaking as his nerves got the better of him. "Stand down. Everything is fine. Go and retrieve Nasuada, would you?" The guard nodded and left the tent as Arya raised an eyebrow. "I take it whatever He told you worked?" Eragon nodded with a smile. Arya too smiled broadly as Murtagh lay back in his bed, for the first time in a year his mind felt… pure. He felt lighter, and happier, almost as though a heavy weight had been cut off from his body, freeing him from being stuck to the ground. Briefly, he reached out to Thorn. He felt his mind brush against the vast presence of the Dragon, but he felt no consciousness touch back. "I'm free, Thorn! I'm free! As soon as you wake, you will be too!" For a moment he swore he could feel great elation radiate from his Dragon's mind. He kept his link open, relishing the presence of Thorn even if he couldn't speak with him. He allowed himself to become immersed in the feeling for a moment.

Night fell shortly afterward. Nasuada had been just as elated as Murtagh had at the news. Slowly the merriment had died down, leaving only Murtagh, Roran, and Eragon. The 3 had celebrated with several Drinks, and though Roran hadn't known Murtagh for very long, shared greatly in Eragon's elation, as he considered the implications. "Two riders! Between the 3 of us, the Ra'zac stand no chance!" As the drinking and celebrating died down Murtagh lay back in his cot with a deep sigh. He silently considered everything that had transpired in the last few weeks, still in disbelief that for the first time in over a year he was free. True Galbatorix at any time could use his True Name, but.. who's to say this HADN'T changed his name? What if the Forced oaths had been enough of a drastic change to his personality? "Murtagh?"

"OI!" He shook himself from his thoughts as Eragon and Roran drew his attention. "Did you catch any of that or.." Eragon asked as Murtagh shook his head. Roran sighed. "I need your help. BOTH of you. The Ra'zac have Katrina. With the both of you, we can easily get her back." Murtagh sat silent for a moment. "How long have they had her?" Roran thought for a moment. "About 6 months. I don't even know if she's alive.." Murtagh sighed. "Well if she IS still alive, she'd be at Helgrind. That's where the Ra'zac take their prisoners." Roran smiled before Murtagh continued. "But.. I highly doubt she hasn't been harmed. The Ra'zac are... thorough in their interrogations to say the least. Whippings, Seither Oil, Dismemberment.. they'll take any method to extract information." Roran listened with growing Horror and anger. "I tell you this, not to make you worry, but to prepare you for what we may find. I'll help. But you two are going to have to convince Nasuada to let me go. And we're going to have to figure out how to wake Thorn. Once we do that, I'm more than ready to fight." Roran thought a moment. "What about your injuries?" Murtagh snickered. "What about them? Do you think this is the first time I've gone into battle with lash marks upon my back? For me, it's a regular occurrence. Trust me, cousin, I'm more than ready to fight." There was silence between them before Murtagh spoke. "I trust you tried scrying her?" Eragon mentally kicked himself. "Uh no, I haven't.." Murtagh raised an eyebrow. "How did you survive this long without me?" Eragon scowled playfully. "I'll have you know, I have been trained by the best elves of their craft. From sword fighting to magic. And I -"

"Forgive me for interrupting but what exactly is scrying?" The two brothers glanced at Roran before Eragon stood and walked to a wash basin. He picked up the bowl and returned before speaking. "Dramar Kopa." The water went still and black before an image shimmered across its surface. There, was Katrina. Her hair fanned out over her face and her arms shackled above her head. She sat slumped against an invisible wall. "Well?" Murtagh asked as Roran leaned in. He felt as though he could reach into the bowl grab Katrina and drag her out. "She's alive." Eragon said as Murtagh asked, "Any wounds?" Eragon glanced at the image again. "No visible ones that I can see." He cut off the spell before standing. Roran followed as Murtagh lay back in bed. "I'll speak with Nasuada first thing in the morning. Hopefully, she'll concede to our request. Rest well, Murtagh."

"And you as well, Brother." With that, the 3 departed each other's company.