The Flip of a Coin

by Unrivaled Mind

He's just a simple F.B.I. agent trying to catch an elusive cartel when his life is thrown out of control. One thing leads to another and he's brought into a secret organization with a single purpose. With his help they believe they can stop the terrorists they have been tangling with for years. And a certain person is making everything rather difficult.

40. Chapter 40

So I had planned on updating a lot over Thanksgiving but then somebody very close to me tried to commit suicide. A lot has been happening since then and then I went into finals so it's only now that I'm getting this up. I apologize about the wait.

This is the only time most likely a chapter will be this long.

She stepped further into the house, steeling herself for whatever was coming. Even then, when she saw him and the relief slammed into her chest, she almost let out a quiet gasp. He was alive. But it wasn't just that. It was relief to even see him, to be near him again. Her walls crumbled and she was forced to look away from him to Nikodim, reaching out to shake his hand and play along.

"It's very good to see you again, friend. It's been much too long."

The older man smiled like he knew a secret nobody else did.

"Much, much too long, my dear. You'll have to tell me of your exploits in the coming days."

Still feeling Eragon's gaze piercing her skull, she grinned and nodded.

"Of course. I've been rather busy this year to be sure."

Lauren interrupted.

"You're name?"

She looked to her.

"Yvonne Trojger."

The woman nodded.

"Well Yvonne, until it's cleared by Ms. Lorga you are not a guest in this house. Remain here and I'll speak with her." Lauren motioned up the steps. "And meet the other third of her guard, Rhydian. He's a brutal one though so watch yourself."

Curiosity to what she could mean filled her but instead she focused on Nikodim, hoping he'd reveal himself to her. Instead he only motioned for Eragon to ascend the steps. He did, his eyes never leaving her own. But something was different, off. Their warmth was gone, replaced with emptiness and darkness that seemed to fill him. It sent chills through her but she couldn't bother to focus on that at the moment. Instead, she reached out her hand.

"It's nice to meet you Rhydian."

He gripped her outstretched palm and the touch sent shocks through her like they had before the five month separation. Nothing had changed and yet it seemed everything had. He smiled cockily at her although she heard a falter in his voice.

"And you, Yvonne. Lovely name. Australian? Although you haven't really kept the accent."

She shrugged.

"It was too memorable it seems. Had to drill it out."

Just then footsteps sounded to her left and she turned to find the woman who she'd only seen in photos and videos. Forcing a smile she stepped forward.

"Trianna Lorga, it's good to meet you at last. From my travels I've heard such intriguing stories about your work. Hopefully I'll know the lies from the truth by the end of this."

The woman's ice-blue eyes searched her and she kept her hands at her sides, not bothering to return the gesture.

"You speak as if you already have the job."

Arya smirked.

"I was led to believe you were in quite a jam. But if you don't need my services I can leave."

Trianna spoke smoothly.

"There's no need for rash decisions. Although. . . ." She pulled a gun, pointing it at Nikodim. "I don't ever want to hear that you went behind my back again, is that understood. Next time I'll pull the trigger and feed you to my father's wolves. Understood?"

The Russian barely reacted except to nod, obviously not worried. Or maybe he just hid it well. She quirked an eyebrow.

"So do we start now or do I have time for a little shut eye? The flight here was a bitch. I almost blew up the plane because the old pervert behind me kept trying to cop a feel."

The black-haired woman laughed.

"I think you'll be a good addition here, Ms. Trojger. Of course, if we run a check and you don't pan out, I hope you're surprised to find Rhydian's gun pressed against your skull when you wake. Lauren, show her to an extra room."

She followed Lauren up a wooden staircase, past Eragon who was watching her out of the corner of his eye. She'd been right to assume he could handle this without breaking cover. They reached the next floor and turned left towards an assortment of open doors. Each held an empty room and she was left to choose which she'd like. Immediately she claimed the one closest to the steps as it had a window large enough to climb through and easiest access to an escape. She sat on the bed, hoping her mother didn't try anything drastic to get her out.

-E-R-A-G-O-N-

He wanted to do anything but get closer to her and yet when Nikodim beckoned him forward he found that something he'd shoved away was overruling his head. He wasn't in control of himself and the pain from the past months he felt crawling its way out of the hole he'd shoved them in. She was here. Just. . . standing in front of him. The cold that'd he'd allowed to consume him was thawing and it was only then that he realized he had to shut it down or lose it completely. She wasn't good for him. Only brought hurt and anger and confusion. He wasn't allowing any of it back into his life.

Digging back into the darkness he reached her and grinned, playing the part of a douchebag. Even then, as her skin met his own, he found it hard to breathe and the effects were still bothering him as she was taken up the steps. When she was gone, Trianna smirked at him and waggled a finger.

"No playing with the guests as pretty as they might be. We don't want to put out a bad reputation through those we work with."

He fell back into his role.

"And what reputation might that be, Trix?"

She headed back the way she came but not before saying,

"Well heartbreakers of course. Keeps your sexy hands to yourself. She's not staying long."

He'd come to learn that everything was a game to Trianna. She only wanted what she couldn't have and she believed she could have him. It took away the fun for her and so she stopped her toying with him. He was completely relieved and instantly glad he'd chosen the cocky asshole rather than the uptight bad ass. Of course that didn't stop her from flirting as it seemed to be in her nature. He glanced at Nikodim and tried to figure out how he knew Arya and why he'd allowed her in so easily.

"You want to get in a spar before she makes you stand guard outside her room all night?"

Nikodim chuckled.

"Of course, I forgot it's my own turn. Let us go outside."

They'd just about finished warming up when Lauren walked outside with a folder in her hands.

"She's definitely somebody you don't want to piss off."

He paused mid-stretch.

"Why is that?"

The woman gave him a look.

"She's a fucking psychopath, that's why. Killed over two thousand people during her run. Ranges from single-killings to massive bombs. Doesn't care the about the over-kill as long as the price is high enough. I'm surprised you've met her before Niko since she seems to keep to herself."

The Russian beside him shrugged.

"I ran into her once. Saved my ass."

Lauren frowned, looking down at file.

"Which one? Blowing up an MI-6 agent or drowning a boat full of tourists in the middle of the ocean?"

Nikodim chuckled.

"Neither." He took the file from her hands and glanced at it, pointing a second later to a mission. "It was here, in Novouralsk."

Eragon stepped forward.

"That's a closed city."

Nikodim nodded.

"Very good, young friend. It is indeed a closed city."

Lauren voiced her confusion.

"What is that?"

The Russian handed her back the file.

"During the time of the Soviet Union they were cities with restricted travel and residency. Many were cities that held weapons plants or other things they wanted quiet. Now there are not that many in existence but Novouralsk is one of them."

Lauren seemed immediately intrigued.

"Why was she there? And why was she let inside?"

Nikodim shook his head.

"I assume she was there to find the location of the remaining 16 or so undisclosed closed cities. And I was the fool who helped her inside. The moment we were through she knocked me cold and I woke up with my hands shackled and a gun to my chest. My superiors had found me and they wanted immediate answers. After two days she returned for me and took out the guards. She used a bomb to distract the others and we got out before anybody noticed."

Lauren pushed for more information.

"That just seems to be against everything she's done. Information on this mission is completely wiped but in the other's it isn't. She never does the work herself and she doesn't save people, she destroys them."

His mismatched eyes glinted.

"I must be special. Truthfully, I think this was a personal job. She was very invested in a man named Misha Zolnerowich. Asked me many questions about him although I could answer none."

As thoroughly confounded as Eragon was, he couldn't help but catch the meaning of the surname.

"Son of the soldier?"

The Russian smiled.

"Yes, Rhydian. She was searching for him and before she dropped me on a fishing boat she revealed that she'd found out that name was just an alias. His true name was M. . something. Well I don't remember. She told me that if I were to come across the name or the man, to kill him without second thought and to contact her through a secure email. And I did interesting enough. But it wasn't I who killed him. It was another man. Now, if you don't mind Lauren, I'd like to beat the crap of our young friend here."

The woman nodded.

"Alright, I'll pass this along to Trianna. Don't kill each other. You know how annoying she finds it to replace guards."

As she walked away he tried to make sense of everything he'd just heard. It was too detailed of a story to be false but it was also impossible. Nothing added up. He'd been allowed to access files at DuWeld that held case titles of hundreds of different missions. There was a Russian closed city on a title but it wasn't Novouralsk, it was Serversk. The only reason he remembered was because he was looking for files on Arya and he'd discounted that one because the date was 1998. Which meant that Arya had been fifteen years old and she'd not been sent on her first mission until she was sixteen. He decided that he was about to take a very drastic step that could possibly put him and Arya in danger. But he needed to know because if this man knew something and only saved Arya to kill her for himself later, he had to stop him. Nikodim watched him carefully.

"Don't think too hard, Rhydian, you aren't made for that."

He turned towards the Russian.

"Shut up. Let's do this. Get ready to have your ass handed to you."

The battle began and as soon as a chance showed itself, he pinned the larger man and wrapped an arm around his neck. When Nikodim tapped out he didn't release.

"What are you doing?"

Leaning closely to his ear he spoke with a deadly voice.

"I want the actual story."

The man struggled but Eragon wasn't holding back.

"I told you."

He tightened his grip.

"No you didn't. I know that's not right. She would've been a child when that went down."

The Russian stilled.

"The date wasn't on the sheet."

"No but it was on the actual case file. Talk or you die right now."

Nikodim pulled on his arm but it seemed to be for show as he put no force behind it.

"The only place you could've seen that file is DuWeld, boy."

Now it was Eragon's time to stiffen. If he knew where he was from then he'd have to die. He wasn't risking Arya's life by letting the man live. He sighed.

"I'll make it quick."

As he moved to do the deed, Nikodim flung his knee up and crashed it into his skull. But instead of running towards the house to spread the news he pinned a stunned Eragon.

"There is no need for that, my young ally. I know it is impossible for Arya to have been in Russia. She'd only just become aware of the family business after all."

Shock went through him. He knew her name and her past.

"If you hurt her I'll rip you to shreds."

Nikodim seemed appalled.

"I could never. But I will tell you the full story to calm you down. I assume you've heard of Beor?"

Eragon's eyes widened.

"Yes. Are you. . . . ?"

He nodded and continued.

"I am. And while it wasn't Arya, you know that her father had just been killed a year before, yes? Well, Michael, or as it came to be known, Morzan, was the man who killed him. I told Lauren Misha in case she decided to check past files. Morzan's name would've been on record considering he worked for old Galby himself." Nikodim looked like he was remembering something then. "Evandar, Arya's father, was a powerful man. And kind. He was a leader and was the only thing keeping Islanzadi from what she is now. That is who came into Serversk to find him by the way. She wanted revenge and asked for my help to get it. Knew who I was and yet she still knocked me unconscious. Beor and DuWeld have never been very close and so I understood. I'm just glad she came back for me. The man who actually killed Morzan though was just as impressive as Evandar. Name was Brom."

Eragon was trying to take in all the information he could and at the mention of Brom's name he just shook his head.

"For fucks sake this is twisty. But why would Brom kill him if Islanzadi was the one after him? And that still doesn't explain how you know Arya."

"I'm getting there. Morzan killed a close friend of Brom's. He also hated the man for other reasons but that is best kept unless revealed by the man himself. As for Arya, I met her when she was very young. She was an adorable child at eight, full of life and innocence. I haven't since seen her until today but I've heard of her exploits. Before I continue I feel we should stand because this must look rather awkward to anybody watching."

Eragon pondered the intelligence of doing so and finally decided that would probably be best. Nikodim obviously knew too much personally for him to be an enemy. At least he hoped that was the case. The weight lifted off of him and the Russian helped him to his feet. Eragon positioned himself between the man and the house.

"So go on."

Nikodim tilted his head.

"You must know well for this streak of protectiveness seems almost more than acquaintance level. Are you friends?"

He crossed him arms.

"We are."

"Just friends?"

There was amusement in the man's eyes and Eragon frowned.

"Of course. Please finish."

Nikodim held out his hands.

"I am finished. Now it is up to you to decide whether to kill me or, well, at least try. I of course will not go out without a fight."

Eragon looked away.

"I must ask one more thing."

"And what might that be?"

Eragon knew what he was about to ask would only be known to somebody with information higher than even he should know.

"Who is Oromis?"

He'd learned at DuWeld that after the battle where Evandar died, they'd also allowed the information that Oromis had been killed out so that he was believed dead by anyone outside of DuWeld. Even those at the Varden besides Ajihad were in the dark. Nikodim nodded.

"Brilliant question. Most everyone believes he died alongside Evandar and the others but he's still there, training those agents to be as powerful as the past generation. I doubt though, that you know of Glaedr?"

Eragon frowned.

"No?"

Niko chuckled.

"Well it looks like I'm privy to more than even you. Do we go inside or are we to have it out?"

Eragon stepped out of the way.

"We go in. It's time for you to stand watch."

The Russian nodded.

"Very well. You keep your distance from Arya though. We can't have you're friendship destroy this job."

He ignored the man's infliction of the word friendship and instead pushed through the door. He wanted to try and figure out what the hell to do with all of the information he'd gotten thrown at him. He closed himself in his room and ran his hand roughly through his hair. His nerves, which had been on end since Lauren had first brought out the file, were finally calming down and the fight instinct was receding. He laid down and, after two hours of contemplation and trying to keep himself from walking to Arya's room just to see her, fell asleep.

"Get up!" He jolted awake and blinked rapidly, looking for the source of the shout that had interrupted his sleep. Nikodim was standing in his doorway, arms crossed and as imposing as ever. "You are a young man and yet I rise earlier than you? With even less sleep? It's embarrassing."

Groaning Eragon flung the pillow he wasn't using at the man, only to watch it blocked with a single movement.

"What time is it?"

The Russian grinned.

"Six-thirty."

Another load groan escaped his lips as he pushed himself up, still somewhat disoriented and tired. He'd grown accustomed to this world he was in, automatically allowing Rhydian's character to take over. He slid out from under the warm covers, wincing as the cold surrounded him.

"What's her mood?"

It had been a question asked every morning since they arrived. Each day that passed put Trianna in a fowler temper than the last and they'd given each other a heads up. Niko smiled.

"So much nicer. She even smiled your girl today so I think we're good for business."

At the mention of Arya, Eragon tensed. He wasn't sure if he was prepared to see her just yet. Nikodim narrowed his eyes.

"Get it together man. Now isn't the time."

He nodded, knowing he was allowing his questioning mind and driven heart to creep out of the shadows he'd stored them in. Steeling himself completely, he stretched out his shoulders and slid on a pair of worn jeans. It took him another moment to find a clean shirt before he was finally ready to head down. As they plodded together down the steps, the old wood making a solid thud beneath their feet, he searched the downstairs for the three women and Simmons who were bound to be all together. Especially if they were putting a plan onto paper. Niko led him through the massive entrance hall and into the kitchen, the smell of burnt toast filling his nostrils. He grimaced, wishing Trianna had hired somebody to make them edible food.

He was avoiding telling anyone his ability to cook because for some reason he didn't want to share. It was. . . . well, he didn't want to cook for just anyone. Still, at certain times during the past nights he'd snuck down to make an acceptable snack. He found everyone gathered at the table there and slid easily into an open space, realizing too late it was next to Arya. Trianna smirked at him, pushing over the plate of toast that held only four slices.

"You're late."

He nudged the plate back, making a face at her.

"Whatever, I just smelled this disgusting meal that you consider breakfast and decided to try and suffocate myself in the pillows."

She laughed.

"I'm glad Niko caught you then as I doubt I'd find such an attractive guard again."

He could also feel Arya stiffen beside him but he'd most likely imagined it. Instead he rested his chin on his hand, studying the table that had been taken over by several blueprints.

"This the place?"

Trianna nodded.

"That it is. Glenridge Center. It has four levels and the convention is being held on the first. Our problem isn't going to be finding a good location for the explosive as this building is chock full. The issue is going to come in the form of discovering a way to plant it. Yvonne says she can create the device in around six hours time so all we need now is the way in. That's you're job."

He raised a brown.

"Why me?"

She slid over an ID badge.

"Because Niko was here first and called dibs on staying put. Lauren will get you hooked up with a new face and you will have full access to the building."

He glanced down and saw a completely different looking guy plastered on the badge. The man there had black hair, a casual beard, and tattoos covering his neck and what you could see of his chest.

He snorted.

"What, am I going as a delinquent?"

Simmons spoke from across the table.

"No you're the event planner. You'll be in charge of preparing the the room for the big day."

He frowned.

"How on earth are we getting that past them? Her people will notice a shift change."

Nikodim dropped a photo in front of him.

"Exactly. We've put the actual planner out of commission for a bit so you'll be able to blend in. That's the other reason I couldn't actually do this. You are small and less imposing than I."

He shot an amused glare at the Russian.

"Oaf, you know size means nothing."

The man's accented laugh echoed through the room.

"Of course my friend. I meant no insult."

Rolling his eyes he stood and headed towards as waiting Lauren.

"Sure you didn't."

As soon as he was out of the room he let out a deep breath. He'd done it. Without even faltering, he'd gotten through his second encounter with Arya. Of course it hadn't involved much interaction, but he still counted it as a win.

-A-R-Y-A-

She leaned against the table, trying to think of a way to make it look like a bomb had been planted without actually planting one. It was too dangerous and putting that many lives on the line was not acceptable. She nodded.

"I'll have the bomb prepared and ready by tonight. Just get me a way in and it will be delivered."

Trianna shook her head.

"No, the bomb comes here. I'll have Simmons check it and make sure it's working."

Worry flooded her but she played it off as if she was amused.

"I don't think so. I wont have this pudgy fingered man fuddling with my creation. It stays in my care at all times."

The assassin in front of her chuckled.

"You'll be the one to plant it?"

Arya steepled her fingers.

"I had a run-in with the security team the target hired some odd years back. But I have a reputation to uphold and the perfect man for the job."

She wouldn't make it and she definitely wouldn't be leaving this bitch's capture to anyone else. Trianna's eyes went hard but her face was held in amusement.

"Ms. Trojger, do you know of the lengths I go to protect my reputation? Because if so you know that I would never allow an untested asset carry out my mission. And I would not trust a woman I only know of from stories to make a bomb and leave it unstudied. The weapon will arrive here when I say and I will have it delivered by one of my own men. Then I will pay you for your excellent service and you will leave. Is that understood?"

The vileness in the woman's voice was obvious but Arya only matched her.

"You believe one of these idiots you hired can handle the kind of explosives I create? Simmons may be able to poke and prod and see if it's working, but transporting a weaponized explosive filled with Cesium is an entirely different matter. I'll bring it here once it's finished, yes, but when it's time, my man will plant it. There is no negotiation on this part."

Dead silence filled the kitchen as she waited for the verdict and finally Trianna shrugged, a hint of admiration in her eyes as she tapped the table.

"Fine. Those are acceptable terms. I want it by tonight though. The convention's tomorrow so if everything isn't perfect you will walk into that place with the explosive strapped to your chest. Now get to it."

Arya swore to herself as she exited the mansion, having known that this was a possibility but hoping it wouldn't actually happen. Now the bomb would actually have to be made. She climbed into her car and started the engine. Taking out her phone she opened the scanner that had been built in and growled when it showed there were three bugs in her general vicinity. She'd had a feeling they'd plant one or two in her car. She hadn't expected one on her own person until Simmons had bumped her that morning. She'd searched her pockets and found nothing which meant the bug was attached to her coat somehow. Using a jamming device she immediately called Saphira and relayed the situation.

"Alright I'll hack them and place it on a loop once you've driven a bit. I'll call when it's done."

Arya ended the call and turned off the jammer, hoping whoever was listening hadn't suspected anything except a small glitch. Ten minutes into her drive back Saphira did as promised.

"Hey so we've got a problem."

Her mother joined the call.

"Dammit Arya, you've made the entire situation more difficult by adding yourself to the equation."

She ignored her.

"Saphira I need you to get a Cesium bomb made. I want a safe-guard countdown placed in and a remote control as well. Make sure it's got a water trigger and it needs to be fully functional within six hours."

The girl seemed a bit rattled when she responded.

"Arya a bomb like that. . . I thought we weren't even going to have to make one."

"I know, I tried to force it but Trianna isn't stupid. We'll have to make the weapon and I'll bring it to the house. We still have control of the delivery so as soon as it's out I'll bring her down. I just have to play it through until then. Do you have this?"

"I got it."

"Good. This'll be ove-"

Again her mom interrupted.

"Do you realize how much danger you're putting our people's lives in? Cesium is almost impossible to control."

Arya rolled her eyes.

"You know that we deal with worse all the time. Just get it done, mother. We can't fuck this up."

She hung up and rested her head into the headrest. This was going to be messy and if anything went wrong it'd be on her.

-E-R-A-G-O-N-

He looked at himself in the mirror, admiring how quickly Lauren was able to draw the tattoos on his chest and neck. Checking the picture he was impressed with the perfect likeness to the real thing. She turned his head sideways and went to work on the beard, gluing tiny bits of hair and layering it to build it up. Eragon chuckled when she finished, giving a couple claps.

"That is damn skill."

Lauren smirked and pulled out a wig, setting it on his lap.

"This is going to suck but hold still anyway."

He watched her mess with a bald cap that had been specially made for his head. After finding the front she pulled it over his hair, tugging it at it's roots, and let go. It snapped into place and he hissed.

"Shit."

Over the next ten minutes the cap was glued seamlessly to his skin and she added the black wig of shaggy hair. He stood and grinned.

"I can't even recognize myself. What about contacts? And how am I going to get a shirt on without messing everything up?"

Lauren tossed him a button up light blue and white checkered dress shirt and held out a small case.

"He has ice blue eyes so people remember them. Well, that and apparently he's an asshole. So you shouldn't have an issue filling his shoes."

He pulled the shirt over his shoulder and buttoned it.

"What about the fact that I have no idea what I'm doing?"

Lauren handed him a bluetooth.

"We have his whole binder of shit for this thing and we'll tell you as we go. Put those contacts in and get ready to go. You leave in ten."

By the time he arrived around seven thirty the place was already abuzz with people setting up and carrying things into the building. He parked in the VIP parking and climbed out, holding himself with an air of authority and pompousness. He'd only just reached the doors when he was stopped by two guards.

"Identification."

Sighing he handed them his badge. They studied it for longer than necessary before handing it back.

"You're good."

He brushed past.

"No shit, idiot."

The people inside seemed to recognize him as he walked in, giving him short nods or ignoring him completely. He'd only gotten ten feet before an older lady cut in front of him.

"Rex what color tone were the flowers supposed to be?"

He stalled while Lauren searched the planner's books.

"Why can nobody remember anything I've said?!"

The woman shrunk back a bit but kept pace as he started walking again. Lauren was chuckling when she gave him the answer. Lavender.

"It's lavender. You got lavender correct?"

He wanted to apologize profusely to the women when she started chewing her lip.

"The florist made a mistake, sir. They brought blue."

He sighed dramatically.

"Fire them and get somebody else. I don't want to deal with this now."

With that he left her gaping at him. Lauren swore.

"You can't fire the fucking florist a day before a fucking event. Do you know how long it will take for this amount of flowers to be sent in?"

He turned into a deserted stairwell.

"Why are there even flowers? I thought this was a convention."

"It's a black tie occasion. Nositer is a major deal. Now go tell that woman blue is fine."

He paused.

"Can't we use that to get the package in?"

"Rhydian, they'll obviously check them before they're allowed in. It's too obvious. Go tell her blue is fine."

He growled in annoyance and jogged back down the stairs, returning to the crowded room. It took him ten minutes and four desperate questions about table positioning from random people before he found her searching hurriedly on a computer. She saw him and stood up straight. Before she could speak he crossed his arms.

"I've decided blue is fine. Tell them we want a reduced price though, and work out the details."

She seemed beyond relieved as she nodded and went off to do as he asked. He turned and the scent of pine filled his nose, reminding him of the one thing he needed to forget at the moment. Moving as quickly as he could away from the scented candles that had been lit to test, he found his way to the stage. Stepping onto it he looked out across the room. The security here was tight. Guards roamed the entire area and he couldn't help but be glad. He didn't know what Arya had planned but this was a dangerous risk to take.

And then his mind was back on her. Shit. He'd thought he'd closed her away from him and yet here he was still struggling. He'd not only shut out his emotion but he'd allowed others to take over, at least tried to. Yet now he was barely able to ignore the ache as the anger could only do so much for him. Shaking himself back into the job at hand, he found that there was nowhere in this area that would work. Jumping down, he headed for the stairs once more. This time he made it to the next floor only to freeze when he heard voices.

"You really think there's a threat?"

Feet scraped cement and Eragon realized the second floor was a storage area.

"From the chatter, yeah I think it's possible. Apparently there was even a tip from the FBI that there's been some major talk about Alanna and this event. Just keep an eye out, I'm going to call in to Jake, he'll be the one here tomorrow night. You can brief him when he replaces you."

Eragon wished in that moment that he'd muted the mike so Lauren couldn't hear what was just said. But she had and immediately came to the same conclusion as he had.

"That's our way in. Put that old chick in charge and get back here. The rest of the details have yet to be hashed out."

Their communication ended and he squeezed his eyes shut. This was not good. Arya better be on top of things on her end.

-A-R-Y-A- (Seven Hours Later)

She waited impatiently as the garage door to the house they'd rented out opened. It was going to be destroyed in the next month as it had been deemed unstable and unfixable. On the table was a crate only as big as a shoebox and two agents were standing on either side, making sure the container was secure. Blödhgarm walked toward her when he caught glimpse.

"It's ready to go. We had to bend over backwards to get the parts here from DuWeld in such as short time but we succeeded. It's being controlled in this specialized container but Arya, this thing is deadly. If it gets into place hundreds are going to die."

She nodded.

"I know. But it wont. Trianna has agreed to allow one of my people deliver the bomb. That can be you and all you have to do is tuck it away safely until we leave here. As you drive away with it, I'll contact Eragon and bring down anyone in the house. The Russian, Nikodim, I don't know what to do with him considering he's a major reason I got inside. Killing him isn't the best option and if he's an ally, it would look horrible. I'll subdue him and we can question him later once everything is sorted. Sound good?"

Her friend nodded.

"Fine. Let's get this to the mansion. The least amount of time it spends in a car the better."

She waited while it was loaded and secured in her vehicle before climbing back in and heading towards the house, all the while extremely aware that any second she could get ripped through if they'd built the bomb wrong. By the time she arrived her knuckles were white from gripping the steering wheel and her nerves were completely on edge. Nikodim and Simmons walked out of the house as she pulled to a stop, several guards behind them. As she stood Niko grinned.

"I assume you have our weapon?"

She nodded.

"Do we have a plan of action?"

Part of her hoped that Eragon hadn't found a single fault in the security at the Center but she knew that was a far stretch. Even then, her heart dropped when Simmons spoke.

"The perfect plan. We've taken steps already and now all we must do is wait. I'll check the weapon and then when the time comes, we'll move."

She opened the trunk and stepped back, allowing the two bodyguards access to the cesium bomb. Simmons smirked.

"This is a beauty." He then pointed to the guards standing around them. "Nikodim and I shall carry this but each one of you will position yourself to correct it if it falters."

Arya took note of the heavy breeze and flying leaves. If they were distracted by anything and fouled up, it would mean the death of her, Eragon, and most likely any house within a mile. But they made it inside successfully and she was surprised to see that a station had been set up to hold the weapon. It allowed her to relax for the moment. At least they knew what they were doing. Trianna walked up beside her as the bomb was lowered.

"I'm definitely impressed."

She smirked conceitedly at the assassin.

"That's usually the outcome. I'm better than most people assume. Now tell me of the plan."

Trianna glanced up the stairs.

"Rhydian!" Silence. "Rhydian! Get your punk-ass down here."

A loud groan accompanied by footsteps was the response. He appeared from his room and came down the stairs.

"Seriously are you all incapable of doing things yourself?"

Trianna smiled and patted his shoulder placatingly and sarcastically.

"You're just ridiculously lazy. Yvonne here wants to know the plan."

Arya caught something flash through his eyes, something like worry, and she wanted to end the mission then. If he was worried then the situation was much worse. Instead she waited as he spoke.

"There's a connecting building beside the Glenridge Center that we'll be able to drill through on the fourth floor. We'll take the explosive through that way. The guard that is supposed to be on duty has been disposed of and one of our people will be taking his place tomorrow."

She cringed inwardly at the fact that one of the good guys had already died for this horrendous plan. Still, her face was stone as she questioned him.

"Do you see the size of it? It's not too large that it wont fit in a backpack, but it requires a steady grasp, the best situation would be two people, to carry it. And wont they have security on the buildings around it as well?"

He nodded.

"They will but they'll easily be dealt with. The guards are more focused on somebody smuggling a bomb into the Center. They wont be focused on the buildings beside it. We'll also have a distraction to keep any unwanted attention off of the people moving the weapon."

She really disliked this plan. She needed to get in contact with Saphira in case things went south. She knew the girl was still hacking the bugs on Arya and had most likely reversed them so she could hear what was happened. Hopefully the DRAGON would figure something out. She tapped her fingers on her leg.

"Fine. My man will be here as soon as you want him. He's the only one I trust to carry the bomb alone as he's done it many times before."

Trianna nodded.

"Of course. Have him arrive here at six tomorrow. The convention doesn't begin until 6:30 and we'll want it all in full swing before we begin." The woman looked around her at the people gathered. "This is going to be quite a wild ride. Hope you're all prepared."

-E-R-A-G-O-N-

He watched as Arya retreated to her room, contemplating if he should risk talking to her or if it'd be too risky. Deciding against it, he caught Nikodim's attention and pulled him aside.

"Spar in an hour?"

The Russian nodded and met him outside at the agreed upon location exactly sixty minutes later. He began stretching and frowned at Eragon.

"What is on you're mind?"

"This whole thing is way too dangerous. We're playing with a shit ton of fire."

Niko nodded.

"Yes I know. But if it eventually leads us to Galbatorix then it is what we must do."

Eragon rolled his neck.

"There's no way Trianna is going to let Arya's man take the weapon. She'll most likely have it transported an hour before he arrives. That means we have to rely on our people outside to take care of it while we bring down Trianna."

Nikodim got into stance.

"I've been thinking about the positives of bringing her in and when I was last in contact with my people, we decided against it."

He was slightly alarmed but decided to hear out the thought.

"Why?"

"Because she is in close contact to Shruikan. If we let her out and track her down later, we'll have a shot at Galbatorix's right hand man."

Eragon shook his head.

"There's no way we'd get close."

The Russian threw a punch.

"There is. If you keep your cover intact, there's a high possibility that we can use it later. Let's say Arya and I are both spies, yes? Well you keep protecting Trianna and help her escape. She is already planning on having a chopper ready to go outside. All you have to do is play the part of a loyal follower."

He was slowly warming to the idea.

"It would be a huge step if we could get to Shruikan. But what about Arya? There's no way to tell her this without bringing suspicion on ourselves and she sure as hell isn't letting Trianna go."

He felt something slide into his pocket as the Russian grappled with him, trying to bring him down.

"Those are customized bullets. They're fire and explode on impact. Inside is a liquid similar in texture and color to blood. Just fire them at her and I'm sure she'll get the point."

He widened his eyes.

"You want me to shoot Arya?"

"Rhydian you mustn't let your friendship with her effect the decisions you make. Three shots will stop Arya and it will sound to Trianna like you killed us both. Or that we all fired. Either way, she'll believe it all the more. So, is it decided?"

He flung Niko and tried to pin him.

"It's decided."

24 Hours Later

The mansion was buzzing with movement as Trianna ordered everyone about. Bags were packed and being loaded into cars, her's into the helicopter she'd called in, and the air was tense with anticipation. He watched with concern as Simmons spoke quietly with several guards all the while glancing every few seconds at Arya. It was then that Trianna approached.

"I have a job for you."

He smirked and winked.

"And what might that be?"

"Simmons is going to distract Yvonne and I need you to be the back up in case he fails and she feels somethings up. Just until we get this bomb out of here. I don't trust her guy and I'm not too fond of her either. There's something that just seems off."

So he'd been correct. Nodding dutifully he watched as Simmons approached Arya, all smiles, and offer to test her skills in combat. Eragon could tell she was suspicious but in order to not offend her host, she agreed and followed the guard outside. He waited at the door, out of sight but within hearing range, and hoped she'd have somebody ready and waiting to deal with the situation when the time came. As the minutes passed he watched with worry as Trianna's people prepared the bomb and then lifted it, heading out the front door at a slow pace.

-A-R-Y-A-

She knew exactly what was going to happen as soon as Simmons asked her for a fight, and it took everything in her to allow it to happen. Now, as she sparred half-assed with this burly man, she wanted to knock him out and end the mission once and for all. Too much was being put at risk with the new plan of action and it wasn't something she was comfortable with. Still, she held back, knowing for this to work without a hitch she had to play along. There were too many men inside to break cover now and it still wasn't decided if Nikodim was with or against them. She allowed herself one slip up as she slammed her fist into Simmons' stomach, causing him to stumble back. The man looked up surprised.

"You've been holding back."

She grinned.

"It was a lucky shot. I think we've established that you're much better than I am at this. We should go in and prepare to transport the bomb."

Simmons shrugged.

"Whatever you wish."

By the time she reached the house she could tell he was preparing for something. Maybe he though he was going to have to hold her back. She opened the door and stepped inside to find the room cleared out and Trianna waiting for her. Feigning shock, she narrowed her eyes and swore.

"Where is it!?" Simmons placed a hand on her shoulder and she shrugged it off, strutting forward to come face-to-face with Trianna. "We had a deal!"

The woman smirked.

"Did you honestly believe I'd let a stranger carry out the plan? Just be grateful I didn't decide to kill you."

Arya bristled.

"You know damn well that if you killed me my allies would be on you in moments. It is no kindness on your part that I'm alive. Do you know how dangerous that bomb is? One wrong step and your people are dead."

Trianna waved away her warning.

"My men are practiced. This is obviously not the first time they've handled delicate weaponry. Now, your payment will be given to you when the job is completed. You may stay here and wait but if you try to complicate my plans I will kill you myself. I do not fear your pesky little friends. Are we understood?"

Arya crossed her arms to keep from smacking the assassin across the face.

"Very. But if your people die it's on you."

She walked away, her shoulder's stiff, towards the stairs. As she took the steps towards the top she whispered, knowing Saphira would hear.

"You need to get that weapon disarmed and out of the public."

As she slammed the door to her room she heard three sets of footsteps plodding up the steps. One was Trianna, talking and laughing like she wasn't about to murder hundreds of people. Bitch. Another pair of feet echoed in the spacious hall and she could tell by the sound that it wasn't Eragon. Which meant it had to be Nikodim or Simmons. She was trying to figure out the next action to take when her phone rang. Noting that it was Saphira, she answered it quickly and spoke quietly.

"What's happening?"

The blonde's voice was slightly nervous when she responded.

"Blödhgarm is taking a team to intercept. They're already too close to the center now, though. Meaning that we have to wait till the bomb is armed and prepared to detonate."

"Shit!" She wanted to slam her palm against the headboard. "Keep me updated. As soon as it's dismantled I'm taking Trianna and her guards."

It was twenty tense minutes before she received word of a plan.

"Firnen has the blueprints and he is positive we can breach at the first floor and make our way up silently. We are breaching on you're mother's command. . . . . They're moving in."

Arya sat perfectly still as she waited for the outcome. After seven she spoke.

"Is the weapon disarmed?"

Several seconds of silence followed before Saphira's shaky laugher came through.

"It's down."

Arya let out a rare smile and stood, unholstering her gun and cocking it.

"Good. Get out of there and make sure you bring the bomb with you. Blödhgarm will escort you."

She hung up and stood, glad to finally be done with the mission. She'd had enough of the slutty bitch. Opening the door she stepped out, checking for Trianna's men. With nobody in sight she headed for the stairs. Running up and keeping her gun down and out of sight. She paused as she reached the top, seeing Simmons walking away from her. Without another moments hesitation Arya ran at him. He didn't hear her until it was too late and as he turned, she slammed her gun across the back of his skull. The thud echoed too loudly through the halls and she knew there would be no more stealth. Raising her weapon she be-lined straight for Trianna's room.

Arriving, Arya took a breath and opened it. And standing before her was Nikodim. She froze, not exactly sure what to expect from him. Sure he'd saved her ass in the beginning but he could've had a different motive. And then he smiled.

"Ms. Arya."

A memory flashed through her head of when she was younger, a supposed business partner of he parents having come for a visit, and she grinned. "Hrothgar."

With that he pulled his own weapon and turned into the room, rounding the corner and stopping when Trianna, fully aware she was under attack, came into view. It wasn't until she saw Hrothgar with Arya that she looked worried. Arya smirked, motioning for her to get on her knees. Suddenly from the bathroom door, Eragon burst out and leveled his weapon at her.

"Traitors!"

Fear and confusion immediately consumed her but she didn't respond, only narrowed her eyes. Eragon gripped Trianna's arm and pulled her to her feet.

"Get out of here."

The blue-eyes bitch smiled, blowing them a kiss and inching toward the opposite door. Of course her room had two exits. Arya continued to watch Eragon, trying to figure out his plan. As Trianna had reached it, Arya retrained her weapon.

"Not another step."

The girl laughed.

"You need both of us alive and he's not letting you pass. It was nice meeting you whore."

Arya lunged for her but as she did, gunfire rang out. She felt the impact and stumbled, utter shock filling her as she realized who'd just shot her. Trianna was out of sight and it took her a moment to realize the colored liquid dripping down her shirt wasn't her blood, that she wasn't actually wounded. Eragon moved toward her but she backed away, looking at him in horror. He paused.

"Arya we had to let her go."

She shook her head, starting to sprint after Trianna. As she neared him he stepped in her path, grabbing her arms and keeping her in place. Struggle as she might, he'd grown much stronger than he'd been before and he wasn't letting go.

"Get off of me, Eragon."

Her voice was a growl, full of hatred so strong that he seemed unsettled by it.

"Arya just calm down and let me explain. Nikodim, tell her!"

She looked back to find the man walking towards them.

"Arya she is in contact with Shruikan. If we grabbed her there's not way we could get to him or Galbatorix. Trianna has no fear of pain or death. We would get nothing from her. But Eragon kept his cover in tact and he has an in. That is why he let her go."

She was trying to calm herself down by breathing slowly but her fury continued to keep her adrenaline pumping through her veins. Instead of responding she shook her head.

"Fine. Now get the fuck off me."

She wrenched her arms from Eragon and stepped back, watching his eyes go cold. It was interesting too because they'd never looked this distant when he'd looked at her. When he spoke he was in soldier mode.

"Alright lets clear out of here. We don't have time to keep standing around."

He turned around and left the room, shoulders stiff and held straight. He didn't try to talk to her, to make her relax. No, he just walked out. He'd definitely changed since she'd last seen him. She and Hrothgar followed, going down the steps and to the garage. They climbed into the only car remaining, a granite Continental GT Bentley. Eragon climbed into the driver's seat and Hrothgar slid into the back, leaving her to sit beside Eragon. The garage door opened and they were off. Light flashed in their eyes and he grabbed for the sunglasses on the dash, pushing them on. She leaned tiredly into her seat, trying to figure out what she was going to do when they were to have the inevitable conversation.

-R-O-R-A-N-

He flashed pictures of the escaping car, having disregarded entering the house to avoid blowing any cover in place. He may have wanted to grab her but getting her killed was not an option. Now he was losing them again and as much as it stung, he would rather she escape than die. He had questions only she could answer. Standing, he made his way back to the hotel and met with Katrina and Wagner, uploading the pictures onto the computer. The first three had too much glare and nothing could be seen. When he flipped to the fourth one, his heart dropped in his chest. The man driving. . . . he could barely see anything as he was putting sunglasses on. But, even with the blur he felt like he knew him. The next photo was in perfect clarity and he sucked in a breath.

"It can't be."

Katrina frowned.

"What?"

He zoomed in on the face of the driver.

"It's . . . it looks like him."

"Like who, Roran?"

He was quiet as he studied the driver.

"Eragon."

-E-R-A-G-O-N-

He looked to her before they pulled onto the road that would lead them back to their make-shift base. Raging inside, as much as he might try to deny it, to forget it, it was all still there. He would do anything for her and it would end up destroying him. She was poison. Yet he wanted her still. She tensed as if she sensed his gaze and so he returned his eyes to the road. Hrothgar was silent as he could most likely feel the tension clogging the air. It was clouding his mind and making him want to scream. At her. At anyone. All of his hard work to become what he was was being unraveled every moment they spent near one another. It wasn't at all fair as she seemed to not even be phased. Then again, he knew his face was as stony as was her own. Finally the silence became too much and he flipped on the radio. The first song to come on was one he'd never heard but the voice was interesting and unique. And the lyrics. . . well . . .

". . . . thought of calling when you've had a few?
'Cause I always do
Maybe I'm too busy being yours to fall for somebody new
Now I've thought it through

Crawling back to you

So have you got the guts?
Been wondering if your heart's still open and
if so I wanna know what time it shuts-"

"Turn it off, Eragon."

He scoffed, annoyed.

"You aren't my CO anymore, Arya. I'd rather you not give me orders."

His voice was bitter and he knew it. What he wasn't expecting is the fact that when she responded, so was hers.

"I don't give a shit. Turn it off."

He reached over and spun the knob, the volume increasing. She swore and slammed the music off. Instead of speaking he turned it back on and changed the station, only to find another song, one that he knew, playing. He wanted to laugh. "Need You Tonight". . . . Was every song he turned to going to remind him of his disastrous life? Switching the station again he found a country one, only to finally punch it off when the song "It Goes Like This" started playing. Beside him Arya was completely stiff and uncomfortable. Some part of him enjoyed it. She was finally past the point of hiding. He was going to take advantage.

"So how are you?"

Her eyes shot to him and her anger was almost scorching as she glared at him.

"Don't."

He wanted to wince. Bad idea. Such a bad idea. This sucked for him as much now. Her wrath wasn't what he wanted. Of course it wasn't.

"Arya. . ."

She dug her fingers into her seat.

"No. Just shut up. We'll get back and you go back to your new home while I return to mine."

It hit him then. Understanding and even more anger emerged from him. He was right back to wanting to yell at her.

"Are you serious? Is this what you're so pissed about?"

Her jaw clenched.

"We're aren't doing this now."

Eragon glanced in the rearview mirror and saw that Hrothgar was politely looking out the window. He just shrugged.

"I think this will be our only chance. Like you just said, the moment we get back we're finished. Again. So tell me, Arya. Is that seriously why you're mad? That I left?"

She tensed even more.

"No. I'm glad. It proved what I believed all along."

He raised his eyebrows, not believing she could be saying this.

"Are you kidding me! Arya you pushed me to it! You ran first, I just finished it."

She scoffed.

"I did nothing of the sort."

"Maybe not physically but on that plane, you fucking took off like your life depended on it. That was it for us and you knew after that I wouldn't stay. You had to have known."

She nodded.

"I didn't run but yes, I knew you would. I just put my cards on the table and you ran because that's what you know. I told you why it'd never work and you proved me right."

He laughed sarcastically.

"You what!? Cards on the table? Are you serious? Arya you cut me out of your life. You ended our partnership! I left because I knew it was finished! Not because I didn't want to stay but because you didn't want me to."

"You left because you were a fucking coward."

Now neither of them even remembered they had a passenger in the back. It was all coming out and they couldn't stop it. 5 months of pent of resentment, anger, confusion, and that never-dwindling need was finally being released.

"Dammit you're so ignorant! I never stopped trying to prove you wrong. Me leaving was trying to prove you wrong. I said I wouldn't hurt you and so if doing that meant going to DuWeld, it's what I'd do. All I learned from this was that you will never trust anybody but yourself. It isn't in you."

She was silent for a moment before speaking.

"That's not tru-"

He interrupted.

"Isn't it though? You lost the ability to when your mother finally told you the truth. How could you trust somebody who'd lied to you for fourteen years of your life? Who'd gotten your dad killed?"

"Enough."

He kept talking.

"You'd never gotten to say goodbye to him because they didn't tell you. How could you ever forgive them?"

She was looking out the window but he heard her when she spoke.

"I said that's enough."

But it wasn't. She was being stupid and he'd show her.

"And then she forced her own daughter to become what she was. To kill, to live life based on the next mission. You-"

"Enough!"

He took a deep breath as rain started falling on the windshield of the car. This time when he spoke it wasn't accusatory, it was defeated. He'd just let out his findings on the mystery that was Arya Drottingu. Just voiced his fears. The deep hole that he was never supposed to be able to climb from of was pointless as he'd just yanked himself out of it.

"Arya, this, what I'm about to say, is putting your cards on the table. . . . I need you." She didn't respond. He hadn't thought she would. "You say that you don't have an inability to trust anyone but tell me now, do you trust me?"

She didn't look at him still and it took her over a minute to answer. Because he wasn't just asking if she trusted him. No, the question held in it every other one that he needed an answer too. Do you trust me was there, yes, but wrapped inside were the others. Do you need me. Do you want to be with me. Do you love me. When she responded, his entire universe shattered all over again.

"No."

Tears pricked his eyes and he wanted to scream. He'd known it was coming, he had, but part of him had thought that maybe, just maybe, she'd actually figured it out. That she knew he wouldn't, couldn't, hurt her. It was impossible. He nodded, chuckling although the pain in it was completely evident.

"You know, you'd think it'd hurt a lot less the second time. It doesn't. It's so much worse. So damn worse."

-A-R-Y-A-

Do you trust me?

It hung in the air for over a minute as she tried to figure out what to say. Obviously she knew the answer. It was so instant in her mind that she wanted to yell it to him. Yes. Fucking yes. With her life. But how could she trust anyone with her heart. Not again. Not when it was so damaged and torn through. So she said no, watched as it hurt him once again and even herself. She knew that the entire argument they'd just had was pointless. He was right and she was fighting a losing battle. But fight she would because that's what she did. It's what she would always do. She would hold to her beliefs because they were all she had, no matter how untrue they were. Allowing herself to shut down, Arya let her fear to consume her. Because that's really what drove her. A deep-rooted fear of loss and that gut-wrenching agony that came with it.

She knew that's what she'd just done to him, that he was now feeling what caused her fear. And somewhere, deep down buried beneath a crap-ton of walls, gates, and shit, she was going through the same thing. But it was muffled. It was hidden and she could ignore the brunt of it. When he spoke she almost broke. His voice. . . . she knew him too well not to know that tone. The one when he spoke of Garrow. Like all the sorrow in the world was filling his soul. It was unbearable and so horrid but even then, her terror of what she'd feel if she let him in and lost him won out. She was a coward. Had been since the moment she'd lost her father. She couldn't allow herself to get close and then watch as he was ripped from her like everyone else she cared for. She reprimanded herself. Cared for, no. She fucking loved him. And that's what made it so much more difficult.

She wanted to give in, this once. Just this once. But it wasn't going to happen and she knew it. That automatic panic in her that surfaced whenever she was about to say the words was too overpowering, too all-consuming. The rest of the ride was spent in silence and she felt horrible for having it out in front of the head of Beor. They must look like such children to him. Ten minutes later Eragon dropped them at the entrance of the hotel and she and Hrothgar went inside. Her mother was waiting in the lobby with Saphira and Firnen and the blond smiled before actually taking note of her appearance. She doubted anybody else even saw what the girl saw. Saphira was the only one present during their undercover mission. During the time when she had no clue what was going on but definitely felt the effects. She knew Arya more than even her own mother and she knew Arya was beyond pain, beyond, well, anything at this point.

Saphira's smile faded and fell into a full frown when Eragon walked in two minutes later while Hrothgar and her mother were catching up. Saphira still ran to hug him but instead of leading him back over, pulled him to the side and started speaking to him too quietly to be heard. She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to gain her bearings, when her mother gripped her arm.

"Arya."

She blinked, noting that both the Beor agent, her mother, and Firnen were watching her.

"Yeah?"

Islanzadi narrowed her eyes, obviously trying to figure out what was wrong. Instead of pressing she motioned to Hrothgar.

"Hrothgar would like us to join him and his team to celebrate a much needed victory. We have an in that could lead us to Shruikan and old friends have been reunited."

She knew the polite answer and obviously took it, not wanting to insult the head of Beor even though she kind of figured he'd understand. She had hoped though, that when they asked Eragon he'd say no, but of course luck was not on her side. By the time they walked outside to the waiting vehicle, an agent having taken the Bentley and submitted it for any traces of DNA or material they might need, it was pouring down rain and completely dark outside. She sat as far from Eragon as she could and even when they'd arrived, had tried to avoid sitting with him. But Saphira had grabbed her arm and tugged her down beside her. The wooden bar seats and rough tables were comforting though. They reminded her of the bar back by the Varden.

Stale sweat and semi-loud music filled the room and she could do nothing to stop love-song after love song from playing. Across from her, Eragon was in the process of getting hammered and she was debating the negatives of doing the same. It wasn't until he looked at her that he realized he was past control. He was angry again as his drunk mind had shut down any understanding of her reasons. It worked opposite with him. Instead of subduing his pain it heightened it and now he was staring at her like she'd stabbed him. Saphira kept looking between both of them worriedly and it felt like a bomb was about to explode. Luckily her mother had sat with Hrothgar and Blödhgarm and was nowhere near to see. Especially when the song changed.

-E-R-A-G-O-N-

He watched her from across the table whenever he believed her not to be looking, not able to help the burning in his chest that told him that he was slowly breaking down. Sighing, he threw back the rest of his whiskey and signaled for another, earning a disapproving glare from Saphira. She stayed silent though, for she knew the cause of his pain. Suddenly a song came on that he knew and he closed his eyes, feeling the lyrics sink in.

"I have nothing left to give

I have found the perfect end

You were made to make it hurt

Disappear into the dirt."

It was then that he gazed at her, unwavering in his intent. She tensed and he knew she understood the meaning of it. He was basically pointing this song at her and it felt good for her to know. She looked away.

"Carry me to heaven's arms

Light the way and let me go

Take the time to take my breath

I will end where I began."

His entire being was consumed with her and his every breath wanted to curse her for making him feel this agony. She had caused this.

"And I will find the enemy within

Cause I can feel it crawl beneath my skin

Dear Agony

Just let go of me

Suffer slowly

Is this the way it's gotta be?

Dear Agony.

Suddenly

The lights go out

Let forever

Drag me down

I will fight for one last breath

I will fight until the end."

Saphira seemed to notice who his eyes were focused on and she glanced at Arya. When she faced him again she was glaring. She growled 'stop it' and her expression became even more annoyed. He wanted to. He wanted so badly to stop the heart wrenching feeling that was ripping at his soul. But he couldn't and his eyes stayed on Arya.

"And I will find the enemy within

Cause I can feel it crawl beneath my skin

Dear Agony

Just let go of me

Suffer slowly

Is this the way it's gotta be?

Don't bury me

Faceless enemy

I'm so sorry

Is this the way it's gotta be?

Dear Agony"

She wouldn't have him. She knew that he cared. She knew that he wouldn't hurt her. Yet still she remained ever evasive. He needed to escape from her.

"Leave me alone

God let me go

I'm blue and cold

Black sky will burn

Love pull me down

Hate lift me up

Just turn around

There's nothing left.

Somewhere far beyond this world

I feel nothing anymore."

At these words her head shot up and the eyes that met his were furious. The emeralds were electrified like a lighting storm. But he also noticed they were glassed over. It took him a moment to realize she was. . . crying. What?

"Dear Agony

Just let go of me

Suffer slowly

Is this the way it's gotta be?

Don't bury me

Faceless enemy

I'm so sorry

Is this the way it's gotta be?

Dear Agony

I feel nothing anymore."

The last line he spoke as a whisper along with the song, the finality of it hollowing him out. He chuckled humorously, his eyes dead of emotion as he looked at her.

"Quite fitting, wouldn't you think, Arya?"

Arya took a deep breath and stood, walking from the bar and into the rain.

Saphira leaned forward furiously.

"Go apologize to her. Now."

"Saphi-"

"No, you cannot do that to her no matter how badly she hurt you. Go."

He sighed and then moved slowly to the door. Pushing it open, he walked into the downpour and looked around him. Several buildings away he was able to make out her perfect figure. Jogging, he caught up, his mind a bit fuzzy.

"Arya!"

She ignored him. Or maybe she didn't hear him above the roar of the rain. He reached her and put a hand on her shoulder only to be slammed in the throat. He wiped out onto his back and his head hit the ground. Vision blurring, he closed his eyes to try and collect himself. When he finally opened them, Arya was standing above him, face blank. He sighed and pushed himself up. Already, he was soaking wet and shivering but she didn't even seem to notice the rain's cold bite.

"Arya wait a moment." The second he stood she swung at him with a perfectly aimed blow. He stopped her with a hand on her wrist an inch from his face. "Arya stop!"

She brought her knee up and he just barely cut her off in time. "Arya!" When it didn't seem like she was going to listen, he grabbed her other wrist and walked her backwards into the small alley between two buildings, pressing her against the brick wall of one. "Arya listen to me."

Even with the rain streaming down her face he could tell her eyes had watered. He released a hand and pushed the away hair clinging to her cheeks. His touch seemed to paralyze her. She stared at him as he watched her obviously suffering and upset. "I don't understand. If you care this much, why wont you just be with me!?"

Her eyes became angry again.

"Because I cannot! You need to get that through brain and give it up!"

He shook his head. When he spoke his voice was quiet.

"You know I can't."

"Why!? Just move on like you've done so many times before."

He pulled away and looked at her, becoming angry himself.

"Don't try and pretend this is because you're afraid I will hurt you. I believed when you said that at first. I understood it. But now, it's just pathetic."

"Thank you so much, Eragon. You're sure making your point here."

He clenched his jaw so tightly it almost hurt. She was spinning this in circles.

"This isn't about me anymore, Arya. It's all you. You know how I feel and you choose to ignore it because you are afraid!"

She tried to pull her hands from him and he re-pinned her to keep her from moving.

"Eragon let me go."

"Why can't you just trust me? Why wont you let me in? You say I'll hurt you, but have you any clue how much pain you cause me every day? Every second I'm near you and not touching you is pure agony. Every second I have to breathe without you next to me makes me want to die. You've taken my entire heart Arya! Everything in me is now hanging on the words you say. How can you do this?!"

He knew he was crying but nothing really mattered. His world felt empty now. Without her he was nothing. As he spoke, her eyes softened slightly, even though he knew she didn't wish them to.

"Eragon. . . ."

He dropped his head onto her shoulder and buried his face into her neck. He heard her intake a breath quickly and then she was holding him. One hand buried softly in his wet hair and the other was at his back. He didn't know how long they stayed like that before she spoke.

"Eragon." He didn't respond. He didn't want to pull away and have this all be over. "Eragon."

He stepped back, dropping her hands and turning away, moving very quickly from the area before he couldn't anymore. He wasn't going to cause her any more grief. He thought he heard her say something more but he knew he couldn't handle stopping to find out. His walk turned into a jog, and then it was a full on sprint as he flashed by buildings and alleyways. He stopped when breath was almost too hard to intake, holding his hands over his head as he tried to suck air into his lungs. Even with what he'd just done, the fury and the pain was still racking through him and he turned to the mailbox next to him and slammed his fist into it without thought to the damage it caused to his hand. He was past the point of sobriety but not enough for his liking.

Emptiness filled him and he stumbled to the building closest, slouching against it and closing his eyes. He had succeeded in shoving everything from his mind when he felt a sharp point at the side of his neck.

"Don't move." He fought the urge to laugh. As much as he tried, a small chuckle left his lips. The man with the knife pressed it harder into his skin, drawing blood. "What are you laughing at, bitch?"

He was so stupid. They were in a shady as shit part of town and here he was walking around with a wallet still filled with cash from Trianna. The shuffling of several pairs of feet made him realize he was surrounded. He shook his head.

"This has just been the most awful day."

Another voice chimed in.

"Well it's about to get a whole lot worse."

And then a fist slammed into the side of his head with more force than he'd expected. His cheek bashed into the brick and his vision blurred. Right after that another hit his stomach. He doubled over, wind having been knocked out of him, and another punch blew across his jaw. Usually he'd fight back. Any other day he'd have taken them down the moment the blade had touched his neck. Any other day the blade wouldn't have reached him at all.

But right now, he just didn't care. He didn't care about anything. Another strike and he was on his knees. After that he didn't feel much. Just the numbness that had already overcome his thoughts and feelings. His mind slowly blanked as his consciousness faded. The last thing he felt was their hands in his pockets taking anything of value. They walked away laughing and he probably would've let himself go if he hadn't heard her.

"Eragon!" His eyelids fluttered open and he looked towards her voice. Through the darkness and the rain that was falling, soothing his wounds, he saw her running towards him. When she spoke again her voice was terrified. "Eragon?" He moved, letting her know he was alive, and as she reached him she dropped to her knees, taking his hand in her own. When she saw the extent of his injuries she gasped. "What happened to you?"

He shrugged. The numbness that filled him still holding back his pain.

"You can just leave me. I'll be good in a couple hours."

"Don't be an idiot."

He snorted, closing his eyes again.

"You can't really hurt me more than I already am."

Lightening struck and lit up the space around them, and for a split second, her eyes were illuminated in the darkness. The green was alive with anger, fear, and something that he couldn't exactly understand. With that everything was back. All the pain that she caused him, all the sadness. Without warning tears came to his eyes.

"Eragon what happened?"

He sighed, making sure his voice wouldn't give him away.

"Just a bunch of thugs. Wanted some money."

"Why didn't you fight back?"

"Couldn't bring myself to try."

Her hands tightened on his.

"How could you be so selfish?!"

He laughed.

"Oh you know, I'm just that kind of guy, I guess." Her nails were digging into his hand by now as she glared at him. He really couldn't take this anymore. He rolled away from her, onto his stomach, and pushed himself off the concrete. He'd only succeeded in getting halfway up before he stumbled. As he did, he felt her arms wrap around him, supporting his weight. He tried to pull back but she ignored his efforts, lifting him and walking them back towards the bar.

It took almost an hour to get there and instead of going in, she walked him past and into the building beside it. He realized by the set up that it was a motel. The woman behind the desk looked shocked as Arya approached.

"Do you want me to call 911?"

Eragon shook his head.

"No. No don't. I'm fine. Just a little bump on the head."

Arya pulled out cash and slid it across.

"I'll take care of him. He got into a bar fight next door because he got too drunk. One room."

Although looking less than sure, the woman nodded and handed her a key card.

"Room 207."

Arya thanked her and they made their way to the elevator still dripping with water. It took almost five minutes at their pace to reach the room. She unlocked it and walked him inside, setting him down on the bed. He fell back, trying to go to sleep.

"Eragon don't."

He mumbled his response through his semiconsciousness as the alcohol and beating took effect.

"Why?"

"Because you almost definitely have a concussion. Sit up."

He didn't move and so she wrapped an arm around his waist and pulled him upright. She flipped on all the lights, knelt down in front of him, and proceeded to clean the cuts on his face. When she finished she held his head in her hands.

"Open your eyes."

He obliged and then immediately wished he hadn't. She was centimeters from him, her eyes penetrating his, it seemed, to his very soul. His breath caught and he looked away.

"Eragon. Eragon look at me."

Her voice was soft. Soothing. He couldn't help it and he returned to her, accepting the punishment as his heart ached painfully. She watched his eyes and frowned.

"How hard did you get hit?"

"Well, my face smashed a wall and the ground several times."

Her frown deepened at his sarcasm and she looked at the scratches and cuts on his head. She looked at his t-shirt and grabbed the hem, pulling at it. He was barely able to raise his arms as she slid it over his head. He heard her breath catch and grinned stupidly.

"See somethin' you like?" She ignored him, her hand pressing at his ribs. Pain shot through him and he grimaced. "Ow."

"How many times did they hit you?"

He shrugged.

"I lost count after twenty."

Her face was pained as she looked back at him repeating her question from earlier.

"Why didn't you fight back?"

Her tone was almost pleading. He looked away.

"I just. . . I didn't care. I can't feel anything right now. Too much pain other places."

Her jaw clenched and she seemed to be in physical pain because of his own. Her hands cupped his face again.

"Idiot. I tried to stop you. Why didn't you stop?"

"Because I couldn't be so close to you and keep away."

"I didn't want you to, Eragon. I tried to tell you that as you ran off. I trust you. I. . . Eragon . . .I need you."

Her words took several moments to sink in. Even when they did he didn't actually believe he'd heard them.

"What?"

"Eragon I don't want you to keep away. I am physically incapable of letting you go. Not again."

Anyone play League of Legends? If so, who is the best champion in your opinion?

a lost fan: So I'm not letting your review through for the reason that you did it as a guest. That's childish. If you don't like what I'm doing then grow a pair and use an account. I should be able to respond to you personally about this and apologize about my late updates but the fact that you insulted me anonymously shows me that I shouldn't even care or worry about your opinion. And it is, after all, your opinion. Just because you're an impatient person doesn't mean everyone else is. If you want to spread your annoyance at my lack of updating and apparent lack of enthusiasm, then post it as a legitimate review. Thanks.

Microbat98: Lol oh no but he was cool. Yeah it was sort of short but it was pretty good. I love David and Billie. Nice, I wish I was in London right now. Never been over there. Oh yeah I saw that it was really cool. I enjoyed it.

Tamerlorde85: Did you guess who he was lol? There's going to be a sequel actually. I wasn't planning on it but I got a cool idea I thought I could run with.

The Hero of the Dark: :) Pretty soon. And I the Urgals I've already sort of brought in but they'll be in again soon. Ha it's alright questions are good.

Rainxoxo: haha it's funny how it worlds out like that. And sometimes I like getting caught in the rain and sometimes it's just really shitty. And I gave you ExA! They finally figured each other out. Haaaa, I avoided studying at all cost, actually. Instead I watched a bunch of Asian Television shows and movies (Which I blame you for lol. You got me interested in Asian culture after I looked up Girls Generation and now I just like it a lot. I'm even thinking about taking a foreign language. Probably Korean since my uncle and aunt are Korean). I want either really, but I am incapable of saving money it seams lmao. I just spend it the moment I get it and I have a minimum wage job. Fanboys are so annoying . I just want to slap their faces. What do you mean it didn't cost you much? Like it was less or you just have a lot of money lol. So you like Play Station more than X-Box? What's the difference when it comes down to it? And I apologize for it being another month for this update. But I had a lot going on :/

urstrulyanonymous: You sound a lot like me there. When I was supposed to be studying I watched Asian television shows. What subject was it you needed to read about? I hope you did well on the exam though. Thank you :) I'd played through it already before my finals so it wasn't a distraction luckily :P

Renaissancebooklover108: :D and yeah Eragon's BA.

TheeRoyalJester: Haha it wasn't pitiful. So it evens out in the end. And they've always had the option to. I turned censoring off and you can as well from your profile. Really? In hours? So it will tell you in hours when I update? You should totes tell me how long it's been. Yeah it would be a difficult fight definitely. Definitely read the books. There's several series that connect together and are all in a single world. At least, my favorites of hers. It's her own created world, medieval times, and there's magic and stuff. SOOOO GOOD. Natalia then? No the drowning in ranch is gross, the whispering is creepy. Ha so you're the douchebag british man and I'd be drunk Paula Abdul hahaha. I don't even remember what you're talking about because it' been so long. Ok I'm glad you didn't think it was fillerish. And yeya they definitely had some interaction. That's how you have to put shit into those graphing calculators. So many parenthesis lol. MAC. Get a Mac they're the best of the best. And Eragon knows what Brom looks like. So does Arya. But good guess :D And you could do that but that wouldn't be ethical haha.

CorLeonis92: Thank you! Sorry it took sooooo long to update

Guest: Nikodim is the other guy. Rhydian is Eragon.

FanBoyNinja: Sorry :/ and thank you lol. And they definitely talked ;)

Xylux: Thanks

TheLoneVoyager: No Murtagh is still in their custody back at the Varden. Were you surprised at who Niko actually was? Thanks! Yeah I can see what you mean. It all is really fast pace. And it's no big deal :)

Walter Peterson: :) And sorry about the long wait. Crazy life.

mr rophone: Thank you! This one was probably the longest chapter I've ever written. And probably the longest I've ever taken to update. I think.

Aceon786: Thanks!

N-Six: Thank you!

ThePCGamer: :) And yeah the Urgals are human. They're like a terrorist group. And yes the Ra'zac will be returning.

burning book: :D

yaya: Sorry about the slow updates. I'm seriously going to try and speed it up :P Alright I'll check it out. What's the plot of it?

GreenFire: Thank you! It's always good to have new readers :)

A Dark Noon: I had to go read what I said last because I had no idea what you meant and the first lines of the review could be taken super weirdly if you didn't know what it was about lmao. But I see now that we are talking about Mac computers :D Natadia? Is that a name? Huh alright. I'm guessing Natalia. Haha that cracked me up *women.* I can't wait for the next Elder Scrolls. Probably have to hold out for another year or two though. I can do a voice that sort of sounds like his. And you probably are a terrorist. And a nuke of ranch, that would be a waste of soooo much deliciousness! I don't want to share that much ranch with lame people of the world.

ht289: :D And yeah I did. Hope you did as well.

funnelwebs: It was nice. I got to eat green bean casserole so I was happy. Yeah I did, it's awesome! Same name as my ff username. And I can't join at the moment because I purposefully lowered my trophies to farm people. Once I'm back up I'll join :D Never had turducken haha. I can understand that I guess. Although when she asked if he was worth it, it was about using the last of this metal she found on him. Whose Nidoking?

Eluvita: It's all good :) I'm very lazy and never review so that's understandable. Thank you so much! :D

Geraze90: She was going to be just a pawn piece but I figured as I began writing her that she created a good opportunity for later in the show. And it's alright, you're review was awesome. I'm getting a 250 bike when I get one so that I can build my way up. What brand is yours?

Morzan's Elvish Daughter: :D lol

Guest: I can't update more than one story at a time or it makes it more difficult to switch around. Thank you though, and I promise as soon I'm done with this one, that one will be next. Well, I can't actually promise. I'll do a poll on which story I should continue next and people can vote. I'm assuming that one will win though.

Update2: Sorry! I hope this chapter was up to par :P

Gossip Goat: Sorry! And I still love the name.

chittart: You as well!

TheNabooQueen: Lol yeah I figured it out but thanks :)