Chapter 16: Welcome Back

"We have to go now," said Eragon, still clutching Liduen and preparing to mount Saphira.

"What about Thorn?" asked Murtagh sharply. "Is he free too?"

Eragon turned back embarrassedly. "I don't know his true name, so I guess so. If you're free, he's free."

Murtagh grunted and roused the ruby dragon. It stretched its wings until the span was wide enough to rip down the walls. He mounted him and they squeezed through the door. When Eragon didn't follow, Murtagh looked back, disgruntled.

"Are you coming?" he asked.

"I have to see Oromis. You go back with the scout…. tell Galbatorix we have a deal," said Eragon. "From there we can save Arya. He doesn't have control over you, so you can let her escape, and join the Varden."

"Galbatorix isn't stupid, Eragon. He'll find out. Even if he can't control me, he'll make a way to defeat the Varden anyway."

"What other choice do we have?"

"Just…. don't be surprised when things don't go as planned."

Eragon watched as Thorn leapt into the sky, carrying Murtagh along with him.

This is the test. If he comes through, we can trust him, said Saphira grimly.

I don't know…. this is risky. Arya's life is on the line! Eragon protested.

We have to get to Oromis.

When they reached the shack, Oromis was waiting for them. "You are going back to the Varden?"

Eragon nodded solemnly.

"Then do what must be done. Trust your brother. Be careful."

Oromis put his hand on Eragon's shoulder and sighed. "This world is done. Either way, this war turns the times. Remember that, and fly."

Eragon nodded. He and Saphira took off into the sky. As they flew, the waning sun foretold their fate.

A/N: I know, short. The next chapter is in Murtagh's point of view. In fact, the next couple of chapters maybe in Murtagh's eyes. Thanks for my many reviews!