To Train A Bad-Ass
By Stargatesg1fan1 Disclaimer: I own nothing of any recognized characters or universes within.
Women Bonded to Harry Potter in This Story
Ros is Played by Esme Bianco Leaf is Played by Kae Alexander Ygritte is Played by Rose Leslie Missandei is Played by Nathalie Emmanuel Daenerys 'Daeny' Targaryen is Played by Emilia Clarke Melisandre is played by Catrice Van Houten
Margaery Tyrell is played by Natalie Dormer Sansa Stark is played by Sophie Turner Tyene Sand is played by Rosabell Laurenti Sellers Myrcella Baratheon Lannister is played by Nell Tiger Free Cersei Lannister is played by Lena Heady
Chapter 25
Roran had quickly realized that charging off to Dras-Leona to pursue Katrina would be foolish. He did not have the training to succeed in rescuing Katrina from such a place. The Varden would have such training. He didn't want to leave the people of Carvahall to the mercy of Galbatorix. The walls surrounding the village would only prevent so much. It would not withstand a full attack from the army. And that wasn't even mentioning if Galbatorix came himself. It was obvious that Roran meant a great deal to the king if he was willing to send such creatures after them.
Roran had woken from a dream this morning where he had laid in bed all night holding Katrina. For some reason he felt that she was safe. The only way to make her truly safe and to ensure the survival of the village was to convince the others to leave with him. A resolve filled Roran. He got up and left his room at Horst's where he found the smith and his family in the kitchen.
"I need to speak to the entire village," Roran said firmly. Horst saw Roran's expression and said, "We'll go spread the word."
It didn't take long to have most of the village gathered. Roran stood in the center of the town looking calm.
"I do not know why I was chosen to hold this," Roran said as he held up the gem that allowed him to pass through the barrier surrounding the village. "I do not know what this Leaf creature was. I suspect she is one of the legendary grey folk. What I do know is that I have seen a vision
of what our future will be like if we stay. Galbatorix will send more men than we can ever hope to handle or come himself. We can either stay here and take it or leave. You may ask where we can go. The answer is to the Varden. I have seen a vision of what our future can be like if we leave. I won't lie to you. It won't be easy. We'll have to fight. The Varden are the only path forward that sees a possibility of us surviving this evil that is Galbatorix. He is an unnatural blight upon the land."
Roran continued on in his speech with a conviction that had many of the villagers entranced. It was equal parts hard truths and attempts to paint the possibility of a better future. By the end of it Roran had announced he was leaving in two days with or without the rest of the village. Roran left to let those who remained behind talk. No decisions were going to be finalized in that mob. Every family parted to make the decision for themselves.
"Stop," Leaf said when Horst raised the hammer to destroy the first tool he couldn't take with him.
Horst lowered the hammer and stared at Leaf in surprise. A trunk materialized out of thin air. The tool he had been about to destroy flew off the anvil it had been placed on and into the trunk. The other tools that Horst wouldn't have been able to take with him flew out of their places in the trunk. Horst quickly realized the trunk was holding more than it should have been able to. When all the tools were in the trunk he walked close and peered over the edge. A massive room as big as his house was inside where all of his tools rested. There was still plenty of room. A set of stairs led down into the room. The trunk closed itself and shrunk.
"This trunk will hold all the contents of your house. Only you or a member of your family can pick it up once set down or open it. For the help you have granted Garrow's family you have my thanks," Leaf said before vanishing.
Horst stared where Leaf had gone a moment before in awe. He then leaned down and picked up the trunk surprised to find it was as light as a feather. He went to show Elaine how they would be able to take everything in their house with them.
At dinner that night Roran learned that Leaf's gift wasn't just for them. "It seems everyone who is planning on going received one of these trunsk," Horst said.
"Most of the trunks will hold the contents of a house," Baldor said. "But there are some families who received a trunk which has a doorway into a second room. The farmers who have flocks have a second room big enough to hold the entire flock."
"The trunks are big enough to hold all of the food stores as well," Elaine added.
"I heard those like Morn got a second room big enough to hold their livlihoods. Morns will carry his entire stock of drink," Horst said speaking of the tavern owner.
Horst had found a second room in his as well that would carry his entire smithy. "What of the people not planning on going?" Roran asked.
"I have yet to personally see anyone not making preparations," Horst admitted. "Even those who weren't making preparations decided to do so when it became apparent how many people are going. They immediately received a trunk."
Horst exchanged a look with Roran. These magical trunks which could store more than they should be able to and did so with the weight of a feather were absolutely priceless. They were tied to a family too. Time would tell if they would work for any unborn family members. Each was worth a fortune. Tales of magic had been told in legend. But none of the stores mentioned such powerful magic.
"I wonder how Leaf is able to tell who intends to go," Elaine mused. "Magic," Roran said with a shrug.
On the day of the journey the trunks were loaded up on horses and ox. These were the only animals not stored in the trunks. Horst lingered at his front door after he had closed it. Roran didn't blame him. The man had built the house with his own hands.
"I suppose it would seem ungrateful to wish we could take the house with us. We are already able to take far more than we should," Horst said.
As Horst stepped off the porch something miraculous happened. "Father," Baldor cried and pointed to the house.
Horst turned and beheld his house shrinking. After ten seconds it was half the size it should have been. After twenty seconds the house was a tenth of its size. It continued to shrink until almost a minute later the house was the size of a doll house.
"I think maybe Leaf heard you," Roran said. Horst approached his house and knelt down as his family gathered around.
"It looks just like our house with all the detail," Elaine said with awe in her tone. "Pick it up and put it in the trunk."
Horst did so half expecting the house to be heavier than he could carry. It was not. It weighed as much as a doll house.
"Do you think it will grow big again when we put it somewhere?" Albriech asked. "I think it might," Elaine told her son.
The group made their way to one end of Carvahall and waited. As they waited they noticed many of the houses in the village disappearing as they shrunk and were stored. It didn't take long for the entire village to show up. Roran took a look back at the village and found it strange to see flat land where all those houses stood. No family was staying behind. He turned back to the barrier surrounding the tent expecting to have to take people through in small groups only for the barrier to open up twenty feet across by sinking into the ground.
"I suppose Leaf knows we are leaving," Horst said. "Aye, she must at that," Roran agreed before starting forward.
The townfolk followed behind Roran as he led the way. Roran clutched the blackened hawthorn staff that Fisk the carpenter had made for him the night before.
Du Weldenvarden, the Crags of Tel'naeir
Harry looked over the massive golden dragon. It was likely several centuries old. He took note of the severed left foreleg as it touched down in a bed of clover. The dragon's Rider was a silver haired elf who dismounted and approached.
"Atra esterni ono thelduin," Harry said while touching his lips in the traditional greeting. The elf smiled kindly and said, "Oromis is my name Eragon Shadeslayer." "And I am Glaedr," Glaedr the golden dragon added mentally. "It is an honor to meet you both," Harry said.
Glaedr turned his attention to Saphira. He sniffed along her cheek.
"You smell of humans. And all that you know of your race is what your instincts have taught you. But you have the heart of a true dragon," Glaedr told Saphira.
Orik came forward and said, "This is indeed a welcome sight in these dark times. If I might ask a boon on behalf of my king."
"If it is within my power," Oromis said. "Tell me why you have remained hidden all these years?" Orik asked.
"If I left this sanctuary and died before one of the eggs hatched the task of defeating Galbatorix would have been even harder. Who would have trained the new Rider?" Oromis replied.
"That was your reason? The words of a coward," Orik said. "The eggs may have never hatched."
Glaedr growled faintly as everyone else went quiet.
"If you were not protected by the rights of a guest I would strike you down myself for such an insult," Islanzadi said.
"I am not insulted. That is a fair reaction without knowing the full story. I was once held captive by the Foreswarn. While their captive they broke something within me. I can still teach. But I am unamble to work but the smallest of spells with magic. Without magic I would stand no chance against Galbatorix," Oromis admitted.
"Forgive me. I did not know and spoke too soon," Orik said. "Your words are already forgiven. Islanzadi Drottning, by your leave," Oromis said. "Go. Train," Islanzadi said. "Come Eragon and Saphira," Oromis said as he mounted Glaedr.
Harry nodded and followed suit. The two dragons launched themselves off the cliff known as the Crags of Tel'naeir. He could sense Saphira's eagerness at the knowledge that Glaedr existed. He didn't have the heart to tell her that Glaedr may not be interested in mating. Just the fact of being around another dragon excited her outside of mating. He could also feel her interest in mating. Her instinces would drive her to reproduce. They flew north along the white cliffs for several miles. They touched down in a clearing on the edge of the cliff right before the cliff disappeared back into the ground. A low hut was grown between the trunks of four trees. A stream ran beside one of the four trees.
"Welcome to my home. I live here because it provides me the opportunity to think and study in peace," Oromis explained. "I find I am less distracted away from the distractions of Ellesmera and others."
"It is very peaceful," Harry admitted. "I think I would miss interactions with other people." Oromis retrieved two stools and a flagon of water from his hut.
"I remember what it was to be young and so interested in the instincts of the flesh," Oromis admitted. "I have found that as I have gotten older those instincts have become less important. But I have found occasion during our annual celebrations to journey into the city."
"I see," Harry said.
He understood what Oromis was implying. Part of it was that Oromis annually went into the city and got laid. Also part of it was that Glaedr may not be interested in Saphira that way. If Oromis knew that then it was likely coming from Glaedr directly. After that the conversation lapsed into silence. Harry focused on calming his mind with occlumency while he waited for Oromis to speak.
It was maybe half an hour before Oromis said, "It is good you know patience. You can also calm your mind exceptionally well for one so young."
"I have picked up a few tricks from my dreams," Harry admitted.
"Islanzadi hinted as much but would not reveal to me the exact nature because she told you she would keep it confidential. She mentioned something about healing," Oromis inquired.
Harry nodded and explained, "I have received some visions about healing in my dreams taught by a creature Arya and I have speculated is one of the grey folk. In the dreams my teacher showed me how to heal and said that only I or one of my offspring will be able to use these abilities."
"Fascinating," Oromis said. "You may have grey folk in your ancestry then. Or I suppose they could have imbued you specifically with the abilities. We do not know much about them." He was silent in thought for several minutes before asking, "What is the extent of these healing abilities?"
"I do not know the exact limits. I used it to heal a hawk that Arya said was beyond her ability to heal," Harry admitted. "I do know that I cannot heal a scar I sustained while slaying a shade. One of my children may be able to heal me."
"Islanzadi informed me of your injury. I will test the extent of your injury today. Do you believe your abilities may heal me? If any creature in Alaegesia could have healed broken magic it would have been the grey folk," Oromis said.
"I can try if you would like," Harry offered. "Please," Oromis invited.
Harry stood up from his stool and stepped closer to Oromis. He held his hands out six inches from either side of Oromis' head. Harry's hands lit up with a brilliant white glow that encompassed the head of the elf. Saphira and Glaedry had their whole attention focused on the pair of humanoids. Harry had closed his eyes and felt his magic reach out into Oromis. At first he didn't sense the damage. But then he located nerve damage in Oromis' brain. The damage was quite extensive. He began to work on healing the damage. He got about one third of the way through it before the nerve tissue resisted regeneration. He made it to half the damage healed before he felt himself growing too tired.
He collapsed back on his stool gasping for breath. Oromis opened his eyes looking at his pupil in concern.
"Are you alright?" Oromis asked.
"Yes. The damage was quite extensive. I healed maybe half of it before the resistance to healing was too high. I do not think it will allow me to heal it anymore even with my powers," Harry admitted.
Harry thougth that if he had the equipment onboard his starship then he could heal the damage. Doing that would require him to reveal the existence of the Harion to Oromis. That wasn't something he would do at this time. Oromis whispered a wird in the ancient language and fire sprang up from his hands.
Oromis let out a delighted laugh before trying more spells. His laughter died somewhat when half the spells he tried were beyond him. Then his laughter returned as he finished trying out spells.
"You have given me a great gift Eragon," Oromis said. "I am at maybe half of the strength I was before the Foreswarn had me. That is half more than I could manage before. I won't be rushing out to challenge Galbatorix anytime soon. But being able to wield more magic again is something I thought I never would have encountered. Your healing abilities are indeed formidable. Thank you."
"You are welcome," Harry said.
"May I see your hands? I find they tell me a lot about an individual," Oromis said. Harry held out his hands. Oromis inspected them. "You are more accustomed to wielding scythe and plow than a sword. You are accustomed to a bow. You have not done much writing or drawing if any at all."
"Accurate. I've only done writing since Brom taught me how to in Teirm," Harry admitted. He could see why Oromis would think that since this body was not used to such things. "I do have a question. How are Saphira and I to address you? Is it by Oromis Elda?"
"No. As our students you are to address Glaedr and I as master," Oromis answered. "That is the tradition amongst the Rider order."
"Yes Master," Harry said which Saphira repeated. The dragon's pride was a lot for her to overcome.
"Were you given something in Tarnag to block scrying?" Oromis said. "I was able to sense you before that."
Harry pulled out the silver hammer necklace and showed Oromis saying, "This. Hrothgar was concerned about the possibility of Galbatorix scrying me. So he had this made. Were you the one who tried to scry me a week ago?"
"I was not," Oromis said. "Can I see it?" Oromis inspected the hammer when it was handed to him and cast a detection spell upon it. "I can detect no other spells upon it. It is a valuable gift. Keep it safe." He was silent for a while. Then he asked, "Why are you here Eragon?"
"To finish my training as a Rider," Harry answered. "What do you think that entails?" Oromis asked.
"To learn more about dragons and magic," Harry said. "To possibly learn more about keeping the peace. Because the Riders did that as well. Beyond that I am uncertain."
"I am glad you understand that peace is needed. I consider it my main task to teach you and Saphira how to make the right choices for the right reasons. Power without good reason behind it is dangerous," Oromis said.
Oromis suddenly let out a pained grunt. It was almost unnoticeable. "What is it master?" Harry asked.
"My condition has seen me periodically freeze up in pain. I have spent decades binding myself with small spells that mimic the effects of spells that have been beyond me. This was all to make sure I lived long enough to ensure I would see the new Rider. I was resigned to die. But based off of how little pain I just felt I may not perish after all. I will have to have my healer look me over," Oromis said. "It was my intent to train you far faster and harder than any Rider has ever trained before, to condense decades of training into months and weeks in order that I might survive to see it through. I should still do that."
"It should probably be done because of the current happenings with the Empire. But it may not be needed. I feel like it will be though," Harry said.
"As do I," Oromis agreed. "Stand and remove your tunic. I will see what you are made of." "Wait," Saphira said. "Was Brom aware that you existed here Master?"
"Of course," Oromis answered. "He was my pupil when he was a boy in Ilirea. He had a hard life with few ever showing him kindness. I am glad to hear you gave him a proper burial."
"What of Morzan? Did you know him as well?" Harry asked. "Yes. He was also one of my pupils, my apprentice before Brom," Oromis explained. "And Galbatorix?" Harry asked.
"I never had the misfortune to be his teacher. I was merely one of the elders who denied him a second dragon after his first was killed. He personally hunted down and killed all of his mentors," Oromis answered. Harry removed his tunic. Oromis circled him. "You have a very good amount of muscle. You are also not as lopsided as most swordsmen. Can you wield a sword with both hands?"
"Yes. I had to teach myself after a broken wrist in Teirm," Harry answered. "That will save time," Oromis commented.
Oromis had Harry go through a few poses to see his flexibility. He seemed pleased. Then he turned to Saphira. It was her turn to do poses including aerial acrobatics. It was a sight to behold. Glaedr addressed this one.
"I do think we coddled the Riders," Glaedr said. "If our hatchlings were forced to care for themselves in the wild as you did and as our ancestors did they may have possessed your skill."
"I do not think that is the reason. Had Saphira been raised on Vroengard she would still possess the same natural talent the likes of which I've rarely seen," Oromis said. "There is room to improve. There is room for all of us. But for you the room to improve is very little."
For over eight hours Oromis quizzed Harry on his knowledge of all things including wood working, metallurgy, medicine, history, the ancient language, and many more topics. Oromis seemed surprised at Harry's knowledge. When they broke for lunch they went to Oromis' hut. The hut was rather barren of anything except that which was required for the pursuit of an intellectual life. Hundreds of scrolls were in cubbyholes along one wall. Next to a table hung a golden sheathe the color of Glaedr's scales from which a Rider's sword protruded.
Harry noticed a large picture against one wall.
"I was unaware magic could create such accurate images," Harry said as he nodded towards it. "I don't recognize the city."
"The image is called a fairth. A fairth is made of polished slate with layers of pigments prepared beforehand," Oromis explained. "That is our former city of Ilirea or as you know it Uru'baen. I captured that farth the night we were forced to abandon the city before Galbatorix took it."
"I see," Harry said.
Several of the books Salazar had access to from copies in his library were history books written by the Varden, dwarves, and elves which told the true history of Alagaesia. Therefore, Harry didn't need to ask questions about that.
"You said on your journey that you discovered Selena your mother was also Murtagh's mother," Oromis said. "Did you wonder about your father?"
"I did. Brom told Saphira enough to know Morzan was not my father thankfully. But she refuses to tell me more unless certain conditions are met. Arya believes this means Brom is my father," Harry said. "It makes sense."
"Brom wanted it kept secret. While he was alive it was primarily because he didn't want any chance of you being used against him. He wanted you to grow up peacefully in Palancar Valley. I suppose only Saphira could tell you his reasons after he died," Oromis said while looking at the dragon.
She lashed her tail back and forth and said, "He said he did not want you to become burdened with his mistakes. He still carried a lot of guilt for his Saphira's death in the end."
"That's absurd," Harry said. He looked to Oromis and said, "Can you tell me more about him?"
"Of course," Oromis said. "I chose him as my apprentice when he was ten. His family were illuminators in Kuasta. His mother was Nelda and his father Holcomb. Because of its isolation from the rest of Alagaesia by the Spine the people of Kuasta have developed strange customs and superstitions. Brom used to get teased by the other human students when he was new to Ilirea because he would nock on a door frame three times before entering. Eventually he abandoned those habits. Morzan was my greatest failure. Unfortunately Brom idolized him. Brom never left Morzan's side, never contradicted him, and never believed he could best Morzan in anything. I am ashamed to admit that I was aware Morzan was aware of this. Morzan took advantage of it in different ways. Morzan grew proud and cruel. Just as I was considering separating Morzan and Brom, Morzan helped Galbatorix steal the dragon hatchling Shruikan. They killed the dragon's original rider in the process. Morzan and Galbatorix fled. Our inability to stop them is what sealed our fate. Brom felt incredibly betrayed. When Morzan and Galbatorix resurfaced and Brom's Saphira was killed, Brom focused all his anger on Morzan."
"I can understand why," Harry said.
"Do you understand why losing your dragon or a dragon losing their Rider usually kills the survivor?" Oromis asked.
"I imagine it has something to do with the strength of the mental bond between dragon and Rider," Harry said.
"The pain is shock enough to be sure. But feeling a part of yourself die. I found Brom after my time with the Foresworn. After my escape I brought Brom to Ellesmera. I fear he went mad for a time. He refused to stay here. Instead he marched with our army to the plains of Ilirea where our King Evandar was slain. It is hard to describe the turmoil and confusion that existed in those times. The dwarves were in retreat. The humans had just fought to create Surda. Galbatorix was busy consolidating his power. And we elves had just lost our king. Brom used this to his advantage. He gathered together many of those exiled and freed others. He formed the Varden. He led the Varden for years before surrendering the position to another. In his years Brom personally killed three of the Foresworn including Morzan and orchestrate the death of five
others. He rarely found happiness in his life I fear. But he was a good Rider and a good man. It was my honor to know him. That is the kind of man who was your father," Oromis explained.
"He sounds incredible. To kill Riders even without his dragon," Harry said. "He was," Oromis said.
They talked some more of Brom. The conversation made Harry feel a little bad for not waking Brom immediately. The man was healed of the injuries that had nearly ended his life and his age regressed to that of a young man in his mid twenties. Harry had also taken the time using the time travel spell to travel back and bring Selena forward to the present time. Her age was regressed to match Brom's and she also sat in stasis. He had faked her death in the past timeline. Finally, Harry had traveled back to the Fall of the Riders and retrieved Saphira. Faking her death with the connection she had with Brom was trickier but doable. The Harion was capable of suppressing the connection between Rider and dragon. Brom, Selena, and Saphira the first were currently sitting in stasis in an on-ground facility the Harion had produced in Palancar Valley not far from Carvahall. The entire facility was under the Fidelius.
"I believe that is enough for one day. Please make sure you bath every day and are clean shaven. Return here tomorrow," Oromis began.
"At the time of the Red Lily," Glaedr finished. "Bring the saddles Brom made for you," Oromis added. "Your time is your own in the
meantime. Ellesmera holds many sights to see for foreigners."
"Thank you Masters," Harry said which Saphira echoed.
Harry mounted his dragon and they flew back towards Ellesmera.
When they were far enough from Oromis and Glaedr, Saphira sent, "Eragon, and other dragon! Can you believe it!"
"I can believe it. But I didn't see that coming," Harry admitted. "I never expected it either. The only other dragon I expecte to encounter outside of the eggs is
Shruikan," Saphira admitted.
"Well this just proves we never know what to expect. What if there are other eggs hidden elsewhere or even hatched eggs. We don't know that wild dragons don't exist outside of Alaegaesia. Or it could be that other Riders survived the fall and chose to go elsewhere not revealing themselves. Anything is possible," Harry suggested.
"I suppose it is possible," Saphira said. "Isn't Glaedr magnificent!"
Saphira then went on describing what was so magnificent about Glaedr. Harry knew that if he told her to calm herself and not get her hopes up he would only succeed in pissing her off.
The Next Morning, the Crags of Tel'naeir Oromis examined the saddle Brom had made in detail.
"This is passable handiwork considering the time and constraints under which it was made. Brom was always clever with his hands. Use this saddle when you have need for great speed. When you have time for comfort use this," Oromis said as he retrieved an intricately designed saddle and handing it to Harry. "This was constructed in Vroengard with many spells imbued within. It will never fail you in a time of need."
"Thank you Master," Harry said as he accepted it.
"Saphira you will go with Glaedr today and Eragon will remain here with me," Oromis said.
"As you wish Master," Saphira replied eagerly.
The two dragons left. Oromis walked over to a hard packed patch of earth beneath a willow tree to one side of the clearing his hut resided in.
"This technique I am showing you is a series of poses known as the Rimgar, or Dance of Snake and Crane. Our warriors use it to prepare for battle. All elves use it now to maintain health and fitness. There are four levels with the difficulty increasing. This is the first level," Oromis explained.
Harry followed Oromis' instruction and went through the stretching poses that reminded Harry a lot of a form of Yoga. Oromis proved incredibly flexible able to touch his forehead to his toes. Harry's metamorphmagus abilities he had given himself in the Planetos universe had also been instilled in this body recently. If he wanted to, he could shift his shape to give himself the flexibility required. He decided to gradually do so rather than to immediately appear a prodigy at this. He would accomplish the Rimgar much faster than he would have any right to. He just wouldn't do it at ridiculous speeds.
"Good," Oromis praised. "Let us wash the sweat off of us in the stream."
Oromis' form was thin and well-muscled. There wasn't any hair on him whatsoever. After cleaning up, Oromis led Harry deeper into the forest to a hollow. The darkness of the overhanging trees was greater here. Moss covered the ground thickly.
"Sit there," Oromis directed while pointing to a stump with a polished top in the center of the hollow. "Cross your legs and close your eyes. Open your mind to the world around you, to the thoughts of every being in this glade, from the ants in the trees to the worms in the ground.
Listen until you can hear them all and you understand their purpose and nature. Listen, and when you hear no more, come tell me what you have learned."
Oromis left. Harry opened his senses to his surroundings reching out with his mind like when he initiated mental contact with another. He found a galaxy of swirling life around him in all the tiny organisms surrounding him. The majority were insects. Tens of thousands were in a square foot of moss and millions within the hollow itself. A column of ants marching up a rosebush caught his attention while their instincts were conveyed to him through his senses.
After studying the ants for a bit, a squirrel jumped into the clearing appearing to be a blazing fire of energy and life when compared to the ants. Harry didn't think the purpose of the exercise was to just study ants. It sounded like from Oromis' instruction Harry was supposed to hear all of the beings in the glade at once. If that was the case then this was an exercise in expanding awareness. Knowing that Harry tried to focus on everything around him. His mind found the task difficult. He tried using occlumency. That didn't help because it closed off his mind to his surroundings. He still tried at it. After several hours had passed he got up and stretched his cramped body. He returned to Oromis' clearing.
"What have you learned?" Oromis asked.
"That it is very hard to split focus onto many different things at once," Harry said before going into detail about what he had tried.
"You did well for your first attempt. Until you can master the ability you will meditate upon it one hour per day," Oromis said. "Come, sit," He said as he set ink, quill, and parchment in front of Harry. "We are going to try to have you master the Ancient language. You do not know all of the words of the language because not even the elves who speak this language most of the time know all the words. That does not mean we cannot expand your vocabulary. We will also have you reading and writing it so that you can compose an especially long spell without relying on memory. It will also allow you to use spells from scrolls if you choose. Different races have different ways of writing the Ancient language. The dwarves use their runic script which humans have copied. The elves use the Liduen Kvaedhi also known as the Poetic Script. It uses 42 different shapes each representing a sound. You can combine the shapes to represent individual words or entire phrases. Your ring Arwen shows one such symbol as does Zar'roc. Did Brom mention the vowels of the ancient language?"
"He did not," Harry admitted. "Let us correct that then," Oromis replied.
Harry felt like he was back in English class in primary school. That was essentially what it was but learning the Ancient Language instead of English.
During a pause in the lessons, Harry asked, "Master, have you ever hear of a dragon bestowing a gedwey ignasia on a second being?"
"I have not. Why do you ask?" Oromis replied.
"When I was in Farthen Dur a woman named Gretta approached me about blessing the child she cared for. I realized my inadequacy in the Ancient Language. Therefore I blessed her not in the Ancient Language but something I saw in one of my dreams from the Grey Folk. Saphira touched the brow of the child Elva and left a Gedwey Ignasia there," Harry explained.
Oromis was startled and said, "I have never heard of one who bears the mark yet was not a Rider. I do not know what it will mean for that child."
"I will keep an eye upon her when I rejoin the Varden in the future," Harry said. "That is perhaps all you can do," Oromis said.
When Saphira and Glaedr returne that day Glaedr asked Harry, "What are the rules three to spotting downdrafts, and the rules five for escaping them?"
"I apologize Master. I do not know," Harry admitted. Oromis asked Saphira, "What are the vowels of the Ancient Language?" "I do not know Master," Saphira replied.
"You are expected to know what either one of you was taught. This does not mean you should only talk to one another mind to mind. You should mingle your consciosnesses until you act and think as one. It is your greatest advantage as Shur'tugal," Oromis explained.
"Yes Master," Harry said which Saphira echoed.
After Oromis dismissed them, Harry and Saphira flew back to the treehouse. Harry sat down to begin eating from the tray of food left for him when there was a nock at the door.
"Please come in," Harry called.
Arya entered. She wore a soft green tunic with a belt decorated with moonstones. Her normal headband was gone allowing her hair to fall free. She also looked very relaxed.
"Hello Eragon," Arya greeted warmly. "Hello Arya," Harry responded returning her small smile. "Please have a seat." Arya sat on one of the chairs in the dining room they had moved to. "Thank you. I was wondering if you would like to see more of the city?" Arya inquired.
"Oh yes very much so," Harry admitted.
"Go ahead and finish your meal," Arya said. "Would you like some?" Harry asked.
"No thank you. I ate recently," Arya said as she looked around the tree house inspecting it.
Harry and Arya chatted for a few minutes while he finished eating. When they were done he followed her to the forest below. Saphira joined them. The light was fading from the sky. Many elves were out and about with lanterns lighting their immediate areas. Most elves were by themselves. But occasionally they were in pairs. Each was working on various projects from pottery to wood working.
"Do elves have professions?" Harry asked.
"Not in the traditional sense that humans do," Arya replied. "We do not need to hunt or farm. Very little exists that we need to strive for thanks to our prowess in magic. Therefore, most of our days are spent mastering our interests."
Arya had led Harry to a ring of trees surrounding a hut. In the center of the ring sat a forge with all the accompanying tools. Harry watched as an elven woman formed and welded on a white hot ring of steel to an unfinished corselet. After the elf woman had finished that Arya approached.
"Atra esterni ono thelduin," Arya said to the woman. A delicate pattern of lines showed on her face. This was the most display of age in an elf Harry had seen yet. The elf woman gave no response which was considered rude and discourteous. "Rhunon-elda, I have brought you the newest Rider, Eragon Shadeslayer," Arya added.
"I heard you were dead," Rhunon said to Arya in a voice that actually sounded elderly. "When was it you last left your house Rhunon?" Arya asked with a smile. "It was that Midsummer's Feast you forced me to attend," Rhunon answered. "That was three years ago," Arya replied.
"What of it? You know how trying I find the company of others. Why are we speaking this foul language? I suppose you want me to forge a sword for him. You know how I have sworn not to forge another instrument of death and destruction after what that traitorous Rider did with my blade," Rhunon said.
"Eragon already has a sword," Arya said while coming over and taking hold of Zar'roc. "May I?" She asked.
"Yes," Harry answered.
Arya drew Zar'roc and handed it to Rhunon. Rhunon examined the blade carefully and even tested it by cutting the tongs on her anvil in half.
"Zar'roc, as perfect as the day you were finished. My entire life I spent hammering these swords out of ore. Then he came and destroyed them. As far as I knew only four examples of my work existed. His sword. Oromis's blade, and two others guarded by families who managed to rescue them from the Wyrdfell," Rhunon said. "How come you by this sword?"
"Brom had it," Harry answered.
"I remember Brom. He begged me to replace the sword he lost. I wished to help him. But I had already taken my oath. He was very upset. Oromis had to knock him out to take him away," Rhunon said.
"I thank you for creating Zar'roc. I used it to kill the shade Durza," Harry explained.
"That is good to hear. At least some good has come of it," Rhunon said before reluctantly returning it to Harry. "Well met Skulblaka."
"Well met, Rhunon-elda," Saphira answered. Rhunon went up to Saphira and examined one of the scales.
"This coloring would have been great for a blade," Rhunon said. "A rider's blade should ideally match their dragon. Unfortunately such a thing cannot be changed after the blade has been finished."
"That is unfortunate," Harry said, wondering if he could do it. "I have a gift for you Rhunon- elda." Harry produced a dagger. The two elves were not sure where it came from. One moment it wasn't in his hand and then it was. "This is called Valyrian steel. Some friends of mine gave me several of these daggers. This one is for you. Test it and see how it compares to that which you have made."
Rhunon took the blade and began examining already engrossed in this new puzzle. "Rhunon-elda, I will return for you on the eve of the Agaeti Blodhren," Arya stated. Rhunon only grunted in response not looking up from the dagger. Harry, Arya, and Saphira left. "What friends gave you that dagger?" Arya asked curiously. "Friends in my dreams showed me how to summon it and others like it," Harry admitted.
"Fascinating," Arya said. "I thought that you should meet Rhunon. She is the greatest smith who has ever lived."
"She seems quite brusque," Saphira pointed out. "Famously so," Arya replied. "She has little tolerance for anything except her craft. Her
eccentricities are set aside because of her skill in her craft."
"I see. What does Agaeti Blodhren mean? I believe Blodhren means blood-oath," Harry said. "I do not know Agaeti."
"The Blood-oath Celebration is held once every century to honor our pact with the dragons," Arya explained. "It is fortunate you will get to experience it now."
Arya led them to a portion of the forest just outside of the city where trees crowded closer together thicky until a clearing opened up. The clearing was bathed in moonlight. In the center of the clearing was a pine tree thicker than a hundred regular trees. The massive roots coming from it covered the ground.
"This is the Menoa tree. It is her shade we observe the Agaeti Bodhren in," Arya said.
"When I was in Teirm, Solembum the weircat told me, 'When the time comes and you need a weapon, look under the roots of the Menoa tree. Then, when all seems lost and your power is insufficient, go to the rock of Kuthian and speak your name to open the Vault of Souls,'" Harry informed Arya.
"You should not ignore a werecat's help because it rarely comes. I do not know of any weapon stored here," Arya admitted. "The name Rock of Kuthian echoes in my head like a voice from a half-forgotten dream. I know I have heard it before. But I cannot remember where."
To Harry, the sensation Arya was describing was like the effects had sometimes been described for a Fidelius charm.
"I have heard of a concealing magic by those who teach me in my dreams. What you are describing sounds like some of the effects of that concealing magic. It is quite possible the knowledge of this vault of souls is concealed by it," Harry suggested.
"That is possible," Arya said with a shake of her head. "In any case that doesn't help us at the moment."
"What makes me think a little bit is the fact that Solembum said when all seems lost. I do think things will get darker before they get better," Harry mused.
"That is very likely possible," Arya agreed.
A scan of the Menoa tree by Harry's probe revealed many things. The aspect most important to weapons was that a large chunk of the ore used in the making of a Rider's blade like Zar'roc was buried beneath the roots of the Menoa tree. Harry had the probe transport the chunk of ore free
and store it in one of the pocket dimensions tied to the probe. He never knew when it would be needed later.
"The tree is alive," Harry noted, the probe's scan having revealed as much. "And not like regular plants. It is aware."
Saphira flew over and perched on one of the branches of the Menoa tree. "Indeed it is. Would you like to hear the story of the Menoa tree?" Arya asked. "I would," Harry agreed. Just then Blagden the raven landed on the branch near Saphira and let out a cry of, "Wyrda."
"In the years of spice and wine before our war with the dragons a woman named Linnea once lived," Arya began. "This was before we became immortal. Linnea had grown old without the comfort of a mate and children. She felt no need to seek them out. She occupied her time with singing to plants. She was a master of this art. This all changed when a young man came to her door and beguiled her with words of love. This awakened a part of Linnea she never knew had existed and made her want what she had been denied. She deserted her work. For a time they were happy. Eventually the young man began to long for a mate closer to his own age. His eyes fell upon a young woman. He wooed and won her. For a time they were happy."
Arya paused in her story for a moment.
"Linnea went mad with grief upon discovering that she had been spurned, scorned, and abandoned. The young man had done the worst thing. He had given her a taste of the fullness of life and torn it away with no more thought than a rooster flitting from hen to hen. In her grief, Linnea stabbed him to death. Linnea knew she had committed evil. She also knew that even if exonerated of the murder she could not return to her previous existence which held little meaning. She went to the oldest tree in the forest and pressed her body to it. She sang herself into the tree abandoning her race. For three days and three nights she sang until she was one with her beloved plants. She has watched over the forest through all the millennia since. Thus the Menoa tree was created," Arya finished.
Harry and Arya sat side by side on a root twelve feet off the ground. Harry was wondering if Arya told the story as a warning to him.
"It is unfortunate how the young man's lack of maturity led to such a fate," Harry said. "He should have realized his own desires before he ever initiated anything with Linnea."
"They were not suited for each other," Arya added.
Harry looked Arya in the eyes and decided it was time to possibly have a conversation they should have had.
"Do you think I am immature enough that I don't know my own mind?" Harry asked.
"Immaturity is not a way I would describe you," Arya admitted. "You are mature far beyond your years."
"Do you think we are not suited for each other?" Harry asked boldly. Arya didn't answer right away as she thought the question over.
"I see potential," Arya admitted. "I also think we do not know one another very well. I have only known you a short time by my people's reckoning."
"Fair enough," Harry agreed. "What else do you truly think? I wish to know in order to better know you."
"I also think what is happening between us has the potential to greatly distract you from your duties and mission against Galbatorix," Arya admitted.
"A man can not simply live for a mission like that," Harry pointed out. "I need to have some enjoyment in life or it isn't worth fighting for. Linnea was too heartbroken to realize she could have found another love. She needed to find something to fight for."
"You make a fair point," Arya admitted.
"There is an additional point I would like to make," Harry added. "You think what we are discussing, our compatibility for something more something meaningful between us, would be a potential cause for distraction. I am already distracted Arya. I have physical urges like any man. Be it towards you or any other woman these urges would exist. They themselves can be distracting. It just so happens that I am attracted to your mind as well as your body so those urges are stronger for you. Do you have any doubt that those urges exist afte what happened in my tent on the way here?"
He was speaking of when they had both achieved release dry humping in his bed roll. "There was doubt because of the influence of the magic in the song," Arya said.
"The song allowed us to lower our guard more than we normally would. Trust me when I say I am attracted to you," Harry assured.
"I believe you," Arya admitted. "I am also attracted to you. I would offer to relieve this urges so you are not distracted from your duty. Except I do not think us capable of disentangling our emotions frm the physical relief. Many of my people are capable of such or so they say. It is not always truly what happens. I have been around humans for too long for that. To humans emotions and the physical act are intertwined."
"I agree that I would find it very hard not to find my feelings for you strengthened if we acted upon them physically. Only, allow me one test to affirm that belief," Harry said.
"What test?" Arya asked. "This," Harry said as he slowly leaned in towards Arya.
Arya's eyes widened in surprise as she realized what he was doing. She had plenty of time to draw back. But she didn't. Their lips met in a tentative kiss. Harry thought her lips were very soft and tasted of strawberries. Her scent of crushed pine needles filled his nose. Arya deepened the kiss. Heat surged between them. They both felt their hearts racing a stirring of lust in their loins. When they drew back both were breathing heavily.
Arya licked her lips as her eyes darted to his mouth again and she asked, "What did you learn from that test?"
"That my feelings for you would definitely strengthen if we proceeded further physically," Harry said.
"Mine would as well," Arya admitted.
The two glanced away from each other and forward. She scooted closer and laid her head against his shoulder.
"I think we should take some time to think long and hard. My loins are telling me to proceed. My head is telling me to take my time and get to know you more," Harry admitted.
"My loins are telling me the same thing," Arya admitted. "I think we should listen to our heads."
"So, letting that matter drop for now while we think about it and to change the subject, where is it you are living while here?" Harry asked.
Arya appreciated his honesty as she smiled.
"We live in Tialdari Hall which is our family's ancestral building in the western part of Ellesmera. I would enjoy showing it to you," Arya said.
"I would like that," Harry agreed.
Harry and Arya made no move to leave the root of the Menoa tree and their contact with one another immediately. They enjoyed their privacy and chance to be in physical contact too much. They talked of many things. Harry found it interesting when Arya described the way the monarchy worked for the elves in basic detail. Arya had the right as Islanzadi's daughter to assume the throne should Islanzadi willingly abdicate or die. But Arya was not required to do so. If she found the prospect distasteful then a successor would be chosen among the noble houses of the elves. Arya admitted she did not find the prospect distasteful. But it isn't
something she would want to do anytime in the near future nor necessarily for the rest of her existence. Oftentimes rulers would do so for several centuries before abdicating willingly. It was considered a service to the people to rule and lead. Harry found the view a rather enlightened one.
When they eventually got up from the Menoa tree roots and began to walk, Arya did not relinquish her hold on his arm. They walked intertwined like that. Harry noticed and enjoyed her touch.
"How goes your training?" Arya asked.
"It goes well," Harry said. "I would tell you something about my heritage but don't wish it to be spread around."
"Your secrets are safe with me," Arya assured. "Oromis confirmed that Brom is my father," Harry said.
"Well that explains much. I had the smallest of suspicions about it," Arya said. "It is good to have confirmation. He was a good man."
"From what I hear he was," Harry said. "How do you feel about this?" Arya asked.
"I'm not certain. The fact that he lived so close all my life and I never knew the truth is vexing. I wish he had just told me or spent more time with me," Harry said.
"I understand. I spent very little time with my father. It seems we both didn't get to spend much time with our fathers," Arya said. "I am sure Oromis could tell you more of him."
"Oh he already has begun," Harry confirmed.
"Good," Arya said as she reluctantly released his arm when they started to get into parts of the city where they would encounter others.
Whatever this was developing between them Arya didn't want others to know about it for now. They were still trying to figure things out. This was between them.