Torn Between Two
Chapter 2
Eragon watched, careful to stay hidden, from a distance at what was happening at Murtagh's cage.
Little one, Saphira whispered, what's troubling you?
I feel so helpless! Tears filled his caramel eyes as he spoke to his dragon.
Why? Murtagh is strong-willed and not easily broken.
He's weak! You said so yourself! He snapped.
Eragon. . .
No! Look at him, he can't even stand on his own! They beat him mercilessly. . . he began to sob, falling against the sapphire dragon's right leg.
Little one, she lay her head on the boy, try to contact Reilyn, maybe she can reassure you.
You're right. . . I'm sorry I snapped at you Saphira. It's just. . . Well. . . Murtagh-. He couldn't finish.
He means a lot to you Eragon, she finished for him, you two were very close.
Eragon smile against the gem-like scales of his dragon. She knew about Murtagh and Eragon, that they were more than friends; she knew they loved each other and she kept the secret safe.
Do you suppose Reilyn knows how much we mean to each other? he asked.
I think she suspects something Eragon, she replied, but I also believe she'll keep it safe. Now, stop stalling and speak with her! Saphira broke the connection to him, forcing him to speak with Reilyn.
Eragon sighed and looked at Saphira. She settled on the ground and stared at him with her sparkling sapphire eyes, silently but sternly urging him on.
Reilyn? he reached for her mind gently, being careful to let her know it was him and not an enemy. He felt her release the guard around her mind.
Eragon? Is something wrong?
No, I just wanted an update, he said, what's going on down there?
We had a slight problem, but I took care of it. I've also sent for a healer and food for Murtagh.
Relief flooded Eragon, he let out a deep breath before continuing.
I see, he hid the relief, inspect his wounds, have him healed and fed, and then prepare him for departure.
Pulling rank on me, Rider? Reilyn joked.
Never, I see us as equals. With me being slightly stronger, he joked back.
Don't be too prideful, Rider! she growled playfully. Is there anything else you need? I have things to tend to. She sent him an image of Murtagh to make her point.
Eragon winced at the image of his best friends broken and weak body, wishing he could just hold him close and heal his pain.
No, that is all for now. Find me when you are ready to leave.
Of course, Eragon.
Thank you, Reilyn. He was about to break the connection when she interrupted.
Eragon? she whispered.
Yes?
I would like to accompany the guards with Murtagh, to ensure his safety and to help ease your mind.
How will you guard me? he asked. It was a good idea, but. . .
We will keep our minds connected to each other, she replied, that way I'd know if you needed me and I could keep you constantly updated on Murtagh's condition.
Eragon was silent, lost in his own head. He thought the idea Reilyn had was a good one, but he couldn't risk being separated from her while traveling.
Eragon? Reilyn beckoned, worry lacerating her voice.
Fine, he made up his mind, but only for today. I'll let this be a test run, later we have to work out some sort of schedule, if all goes well today. Deal?
Deal! she agreed.
Be wary, he warned before ending the connection. He watched as Murtagh was led out of his cage by Dogon and Jeirden, his raven hair in his face and his legs looked like they'd give out at any second.
Eragon, Saphira pulled him from his observation, we need to go and prepare.
"I know," he said aloud, as he pulled himself onto Saphira. When Saphira leapt up and caught wind in her wings, Eragon laughed, feeling free.
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Shoe says: YES!! Chapter 2 done!! on to chapter 3!!