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
Arya Svit Kona is played by Sienna Guillory Hermione Granger is played by Emma Watson
Chapter 29
It was one morning when Harry woke up that he decided they were needed in Surda. "What is it?" Arya asked when she noticed the thouthful expression on her lover's face. "Events in Surda are progressing to the point that we need to leave to join the fight," Harry said. "I'm coming with you," Arya said. "I would have it no other way," Harry replied. "I will begin making preparations. When do you want to leave?" Arya asked. "Later today," Harry answered.
"My mother has assembled a team of spell casters for your protection and to assist you. Is there any way they could go with us? Saphira surely can't lift them all," Arya said while hoping there was something her lover had learned that could help them.
"There is something," Harry said. "A trick the Grey Folk showed me. They will have to lay in a folded space and it would be best if they were in an enchanted sleep. But we can transport them
and their provisions along with Orik. You will remain awake with me. Saphira can carry you and I."
"I will let my mother know," Arya said.
The two quickly rose and ate a brief breakfast. They took the time to shower together and relieved each other of any built up stress. They did not know when they would get a chance again if they would be traveling. Arya then departed to speak to her mother. Saphira left to take care of some things. Harry went to Tialdari Hall where he found Orik playing a game of Runes.
"Eragon, what brings you here at this time?" Orik asked.
"Events in Surda require our attention. I can take you with me if you would like to come. But you will have to be put into a magical sleep so that Saphira can carry everything she needs to carry," Harry said.
Orik looked wary at hearing this but then said, "We do what we must. When do we depart?"
"As soon as we can later today. I am going to make preparations now," Harry said.
"I will be ready," Orik said as he rose.
Harry left. He made his way to the Crags of Tel'naeir. Saphira met up with him and they flew to Oromis' hut. Oromis was waiting with Glaedr.
"Master Oromis, Master Glaedr," Harry greeted.
"You are returning to the Varden," Glaedr said.
"We must if we are to prevent their destruction," Harry said.
"I wish I could go with you. Unfortunately even though I am restored to half of my previous strength Glaedr's presence would immediately draw Galbatorix himself," Oromis said.
"You yourself could come under glamour but I understand being parted from Glaedr like that isn't worth the risk," Harry pointed out.
"It was only six days ago that Lord Dathedr pierced the spells Galbatorix has used to deceive our scrying. He masked his troop movements this way," Oromis informed Harry. "Since then the elves have been mobilizing."
"I see," Harry said.
"The possibility is remote I believe but he has surprised us. Galbatorix may be present at the battle. My recommendation is to do your best to distract him from the Varden if that happens. I ask that you and Saphira return here when events permit," Oromis said.
"We shall do so Master," Harry replied. Oromis produced an embroidered red pouch. He took a silver bottle out of the pouch.
"I have augmented this faelnirv with my own enchantments which will allow it to sustain you when all else fails. Drink it sparingly," Oromis advised. Next he took out a long black and blue sword belt. "If you pull at this tastle," He explained while doing so. "You'll see the true value of this belt." There were twelve diamonds secured into the belt. Four were white. Four were black. And the rest were various colors. Each diamond was more than an inch across. "This is the belt of Beloth the Wise. Guard it well so that none are tempted to steal it. These were the most perfect gems the Riders could find and one of the greatest treasures of our order. Between these and the gem in Zar'roc's pommel you will be able to amass a large store of energy for casting spells in battle."
"Thank you master for these gifts," Harry said earnestly. They exchanged the traditional greeting which Oromis initiated to show respect.
"You Saphira Brightscales and Eragon Shadeslayer carry the blessing of Oromis last scion of House Thrandurin, he who is both the Mourning Sage and the Cripple Who is Whole," Oromis said.
"And mine as well," Glaedr added. He extended his nose to Saphira and touched the tip of her nose. "Remember to keep your heart safe Saphira."
There was meaning to those words Harry sensed. He wasn't sure what. Yet there was meaning. Harry and Saphira left Oromis and Glaedr behind. Harry left them with a probe that would look after the two. They were as safe as could be in Du Weldenvarden. Yet he did not know if they would stay there. A probe would also be left to watch over Islanzadi.
When Harry and Saphira reached the clearing next to Tialdari Hall he found a group waiting for them. Present were Islanzadi, her attending lords and ladies, Arya with Snowfire, Orik, and twelve elves dressed for battle.
After the formalities were exchanged Islanzadi said, "Eragon may I present Blodharm." Islanzadi gestured towards a dark haired elf with blue fur, sharp fangs like a wolve's, a pelt like a forest cat, eagle shaped eyes, and a musk-like scent. The traditional greetings were exchanged. "Blodgharm is the leader of these elven other spellweavers. I wish them to be your bodyguard and aid you in your fight."
"Well met Shadeslayer," Blodgharm said with a slight bow of his head. "And brightscales." "Well met," Saphira replied while Harry nodded.
"Saphira and I thank you for your hospitality," Harry said to Islanzadi. "We also thank you for the assistance of your spellweavers. We look forward to their assistance. Now I must put everyone except Arya into an enchanted sleep and store them away in a folded space that will travel with me so that we can move faster."
"Arya has spoken of this folded space. I must say I look forward to seeing it," Islanzadi said.
In short order the spellweavers, Snowfire, and Orik were all asleep. Harry transported them one by one into the pocket dimension within his satchel. He didn't need to use the original satchel he had been provided anymore thanks to his probe. But he still carried it anyway when in this universe.
"Before you go I have a gift for you," Islanzadi said as she gestured to one of her attendants. She was handed a long wooden box. She opened it to reveal a beautiful elvish made wooden bow. "I sung it myself from a yew tree. The string will never break. As long as you use these arrows you would be hard pressed to miss your target."
"You honor me my lady. Thank you," Harry said.
Soon everything was stowed including all of their supplies. Arya bid farewell to her mother. They mounted Saphira who took off.
As they flew, Harry heard words drift over the wind sung by an elf woman.
Away, away, you shall fly away, O'er the peaks and vales To the lands beyond. Away, away, you shall fly away, And never return to me...
Flying with only Arya and Saphira was relaxing. They spent hours just talking mixed in with periods of silence that were comfortable. He spoke with Arya of future hopes and dreams but also aspects of life they enjoyed.
Earth
Hermione stood in front of the mirror in her hotel room putting on makeup to prepare for dinner. Harry wasn't telling her where he was taking her. That was ok. She loved the surprise. Makeup was so much easier to get right with spells. Harry having removed the trace from her wand made things so much easier. They were in the second month of their world tour. One month hadn't
been enough in their minds. So, he had simply jumped them back another month. She didn't ask how many times he could do that but was beginning to wonder if he couldn't just keep doing it. She glanced back out the bathroom door into their hotel room and saw Harry finishing up getting ready. He looked so good. It was a sight she never tired of.
"I'm almost ready," Hermione said. "Take your time," Harry replied. "Our reservation will wait." "Now you have me really curious," Hermione said. "Your curiosity will be sated soon enough," Harry assured.
He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around Hermione. She pressed back against him feeling his length hardening against her bum. That was another experience she never tired of. She bit her bottom lip at the thought.
"None of that now or we will be very late," Hermione said. "Later after dinner maybe."
Harry drew back but ran his hands down her sides to squeeze momentarily on her butt. She met his gaze in the mirror and it was heated. A few minutes later she was ready to go. He wrapped her in his arms and transported them away. When she oriented herself to her surroundings she realized where they were.
"Hermione," Emma Granger cried as she came forward and wrapped her daughter in a hug. "Harry," Dan said as he shook Harry's hand.
"What's going on?" Hermione asked bewildered as she pulled back from her mother after a long hug.
"Harry contacted us to arrange having dinner with us," Emma explained.
"Oh he did, did he," Hermione said while glancing at Harry.
"I thought it would be nice to have dinner with your parents," Harry said with a shrug.
"I think maybe you're the only boyfriend that would think that way," Hermione said with a grin as she shugged her father.
Emma and Dan exchanged amused glances. The boyfriend status of Harry was a recent development in Hermione's letters. Yet it was something they had expected for years now ever since Hermione had started talking about Harry in her letters.
"Have a seat," Dan said while gesturing at the already set dinner table. "Given Harry's status he is probably one of the only boyfriends that has nothing to fear from us."
"Status?" Hermione asked in confusion as they began dishing out dinner.
Dan looked in surprise at his daughter before glancing at Harry.
"We haven't exactly been able to view the non-magical news," Harry said.
Dan and Emma thought he meant being at Hogwarts. But really Harry and Hermione didn't watch the news.
"She doesn't know," Emma said with surprise.
"Know what?" Hermione demanded.
"Your boyfriend here just revealed himself to be quite the genius to the world. He and his godfather started a company which builds fusion reactors and space shuttle service. Their company is already earning them billions," Dan explained.
Hermione's eyes grew almost comically wide and she turned to her boyfriend saying, "Harry?" "It's something I gained access to during my training," Harry said. Hermione nodded her understanding and asked, "Is this magical means you are using?" "No. Technological," Harry said.
Now Hermione was even more curious about his training. Yet it was something they had avoided discussing as an unspoken rule.
"What training is this?" Emma asked.
"I'm afraid that is private mum," Hermione said before that question could come up.
"More than his company's status we meant that Harry's status as your best friend for many years meant that we aren't really worried about Harry," Dan said. "Now if you had started dating Ron that might be a different story."
"That boy would not have been a fit for you," Emma said with a nod of agreement. "Discussed it much have you," Harry said with a grin. "Certainly," Dan replied. "Dad," Hermione said indignantly.
"What," Emma said. "You can't expect us to not talk about it. Ron was someone we were hoping you wouldn't become attracted to."
The teasing of Hermione went on for some time.
Meanwhile back in Alagaesia
While Harry was visiting with Hermione's parents, Roran and the dragonwing were being pursued by four smaller ships, sloops. The sloops were swifter and carried at least one enemy magician. The dragonwing had taken a course close to a massive whirlpool known as the Boar's Eye. The four sloops had pursued. The dragonwing had a large enough crew to sustain the rowing pace needed to pull them out. The sloops did not and were pulled back towards the whirlpool to their deaths. Yet before they died the enemy magicians for there were in fact two of them, used the last of their strength to send arrows with fire that could not be exstinguished by mundane means towards the dragonwing.
Leaf briefly appeared on deck and waved her hand. The magical flames were exstinguished. That was all the help she had needed to provide. The crew of the dragonwing had escaped the boar's eye by their own merit.
Back in Crawley, England, The Granger Residence
"So tell me, how is it you are able to visit here from Hogwarts? I thought you weren't able to leave the school except for Hogsmeade weekends during the school year," Emma said.
There was a note of bitterness in her tone that Harry picked up on. It was an old wound for Emma and Dan. Magic was a wonderful thing to behold. Yet it had taken their daughter from their lives for most of each year.
"I gained access to a training resource which has greatly enhanced my learning of magic. As far as the school staff are concerned, they won't realize Hermione and I stepped out for dinner," Harry said.
That was a gross oversimplification. Yet it was accurate. "What is this training resource?" Dan asked curiously. "He can't really talk about it," Hermione said. "That must be driving you crazy," Emma said knowing her daughter.
"Not as much as you might think. I just enjoy my time with Harry and anything that will better help him with...," Hermione trailed off realizing she was talking to her parents.
"Better help him with what dear?" Emma pressed.
Hermione hadn't told her parents about the dangers of the magical world. Neither Hermione or Harry knew Voldemort was resurrected. The Ministry also hadn't even learned yet that all of Voldemort's Death Eaters had been broken out of prison. Voldemort himself had gone to the island and liberated his followers using Polyjuice to get in as a guard. He had then proceeded to imperius all of the other prison guards. As far as the Ministry was concerned the Death Eaters were still sitting in their cells.
"There are dangers in the magical world as I'm afraid we're about to find out," Harry said quickly. "Anti-apparation and anti-portkey wards just went up," Harry warned having felt them.
Hermione drew her wand immediately as did Harry. "What is it?" Dan asked. "We're being attacked," Harry warned. "I think there are five of them. Please be quiet."
Harry waved his wand at the outer wall and it became transparent. A group of five Death Eaters was standing in the yard. It was night out. Yet their white masks could be seen clearly. The second spell Harry had cast allowed them to hear the death eaters.
"Riker, Bobbit, Blake, you three follow our lead. The anti-apparation wards was just in case the mudblood has learned how to apparate or does it accidentally. The anti-portkey ward was in case Dumbledore supplied her with a portkey which is doubtful," Bellatrix said.
"When we go in we use body binds and crucio. No killing right off," Dolohov said. "We want to make the father watch what we do to the bitches. I get the mudblood. She is supposed to be gorgeous for a filthy mudblood. You three can take turns with the muggle filth that gave birth to her."
"Let's go show the world why mudbloods should know their place. Now I won't have to hear Draco whine about how well this mudblood does in school," Bellatrix said.
"And send a message to Potter at the same time," Dolohov added as the group turned to begin their attack.
They spread out with three at the front door and two at the back after casting the collaportus spell on the windows to seal up the house. This spreading out gave those inside time to act.
Harry cast the disillusionment charm upon them all. Seconds later both the front and back doors were blasted to pieces with a blasting curse.
"Oh little mudblood, can you come out and play?" Bellatrix called into the house before letting out a mad cackle.
Harry felt a homonum revelio spell wash through the house.
"They know how many of us are here, where we are, and that two of us are magical," Harry managed to get out before the fight was on.
Bellatrix and Dolohov opened up with cruciatus curses. Bella dodged Harry's piercing curse to the forehead only for the recruit behind her to take it instead in the throat. The recruit, Bobbit, went down clutching at his ruined throat dying on the floor. The other recruit, Bobbit, stepped over the dying man and added his own crucio. Riker and Dolohov had come in the back door and fired off a stunner and crucio respectively. Hermione managed to conjure a flock of birds to intercept the spells and harass the two Death Eaters. Harry's perception after the enhancement the dragons had given him was much faster than any human's perception. He was also using his probe to make himself fully aware of the situation thanks to his mental link with it. He was proud of Hermione's inventiveness with the flock of birds. He blocked the crucios by snap- conjuring a stone wall which shattered upon impact from the unforgiveabbles. He sent the sharp rubble back at Bellatrix and Blake.
Bellatrix conjured a shield. Blake didn't quite get his up fully in time and got cut up a bit as a result. Dolohov meanwhile had sent out a cloud of some type of acid which melted through the flock of birds yet didn't seem to harm Riker next to him. He sent a lightning spell at Hermione. Harry's hand shot backwards behind him with a shield spell focused on his palm. His palm went just past Hermione where the lightning spell would have connected and rebounded the lightning bolt back into Riker. At the same time Harry sent a cloud of small poisonous spikes out of his wand towards Bellatrix and Blake. Bellatrix shielded for the both of them.
"It seems wee baby Potter is visiting and he has some teeth," Bellatrix declared before letting out a cackle.
"Good. I'll enjoy using the mudblood in front of him too," Doholov called as spells were exchanged. "Would you like that Potter? I'll bugger the mudblood right in front of you. Maybe we'll imperius her dad and make him bugger you."
Harry didn't bother replying. Dolohov took that moment to send out some kind of spell which was powerful magically and had a very unique energy signature. The spell overloaded Harry's senses momentarily via his connection to the probe. His senses cleared just in time to see a purple flame cutter spell connect with Hermione's chest cast by Dolohov. The spell would have normally cut someone in half. But the spell had been weakened by the fact Dolohov was dealing with a spell sent his way by Hermione. As a result, the wand movement Dolohov had cast the spell with wasn't fully correct weakening the power of the spell.
For Harry time seemed to slow down. Rage and pain like he had never known before filled him. Those in the room at that moment suddenly felt like they were in the presence of a star as
magical power radiated off of Harry in waves. His eyes glowed a brilliant green. He thrust out his right arm with his wand towards Bellatrix and Blake. His left hand thrust towards Dolohov and Riker. Riker and Blake were unlucky enough to be thrown back into the wrong location. Blake flew out the front door and landed on the wrought iron fence surrounding the Granger home impaled on several of the spikes. Riker flew out the back door hitting his head so hard on the way out that his neck was certainly broken.
Dolohov and Bellatrix were a little better off instead being slammed into the walls cracking the drywall leaving human sized dents. Harry drew Zar'roc from seemingly nowhere, stepped forward and swung for Bellatrix. Harry would give Bellatrix her due. She was fast for a human. The wards had fallen with Harry's magical outburst. She recovered enough to apparate out but splinched her right arm off at the shoulder. Harry sent a spell that would burn up the arm negligently before turning his attention to Dolohov. The Death Eater was pulling himself together. Before the man could escape Harry threw Zar'roc with enough speed and strength that the blade pinned Dolohov to the wall right in the gut. Doholov probably could have survived it if Dan Granger wielding one of the steak knives from the dining room table hadn't leapt up from where he had been crouching and slammed the knife through Dolohov's throat. Dolohov let out a few more struggles and then died.
"Hermione," Emma screamed as she tried putting pressure on the wound on her daughter's chest. Hermione was bleeding badly from a nasty looking wound.
"That won't help," Harry said as he closed the distance in a few steps and knelt down. "It's a magical wound."
Harry's hands covered Hermione's chest and began to glow a brilliant golden shade. The light seemed to go into Hermione's chest making her skin glow. The blood flow stopped immediately. The wound closed up a few moments later.
"Are you alright?" Harry asked.
"Yes," Hermione said as she inspected her chest through her ruined shirt caring little for modesty. Then she looked at Harry and did a double-take. "Harry?" She said questioningly.
"What is it?" Harry asked.
"You've got pointed ears son," Dan said. "And you look...," He trailed off not knowing how to say it.
"Bloody gorgeous," Hermione clarified. Harry conjured a mirror which Hermione noted he did without a wand. He saw his reflection. "Bugger," Harry said.
"Harry, what is going on? How is it you look like an elf from fairytales?" Hermione asked. "Not to mention move fast like them," Dan added.
Dan felt like he wanted to vomit from having just killed a man. But what that man had threatened to do to his wife and daughter was unforgiveable. He was also a fan of fantasy like Lord of the Rings.
Harry for the briefest second debated using memory charms. He quickly discarded that idea. Now he had to decide how much to tell them.
"This is Hermione we're talking about. She was always going to find out eventually," Harry thought to himself. He had just hoped that wouldn't be for a long time yet. "First things first," He said as he focused on his metamorphmagus abilities. He transformed back to his human looking self. He had lost control when tapping into his abilities from the other form. "That's better."
"You're a metamorphmagus," Hermione said with realization.
"Yes. But not a natural-born one. I figured out how to give myself and other magicals that ability," Harry admitted. "Let's get this place cleaned up first and then I can tell you some of what you need to know."
"Shouldn't we call the Aurors?" Hermione asked.
"My guess is someone in their department was paid off or is a sympathizer for the Death Eaters," Harry said. "Otherwise I would have expected them to be here by now."
"Given Dolohov and Bellatrix are both supposed to still be in Azkaban I'm just going to vanish the bodies and be done with it. Things must be worse than we fear," Harry said.
It was at that moment that all the bodies simply disintegrated. Emma let out a scream of fright and then quieted.
"What just happened?" Dan asked.
"It it was a time delayed spell or Riddle can cast magic through the dark mark. I'm not sure which. Either way it seems he doesn't want his death eaters being discovered before he is ready to reveal himself. So he wants a shadow war this time," Harry mused.
"You think he's back?" Hermione asked. "Yes. I would say so," Harry confirmed. "He who? This Riddle?" Dan asked.
"Yes," Harry confirmed. Dan and Emma were shocked when Harry and Hermione repaired their house within a few minutes to the state it looked like nothing had ever happened. "I'll be putting up some very strong wards before I leave tonight."
The group was now sitting in the living room. Emma was sitting in Dan's arms being held tightly.
"Are you ready to give us some answers?" Dan asked.
"Yes," Harry said. He looked at Hermione and added, "If I tell you this you are going to have to stay away from Hogwarts until your occlumency is up to snuff."
Harry had been teaching Hermione occlumency. She wasn't up to the level where she could block Dumbledore yet.
"I am fine with that," Hermione replied.
"There is a tournament going on at our school," Harry began.
"Hermione told us about it in a letter and how you got entered," Emma said.
"Well I went down into the chamber of secrets to see if there wasn't something there that could help me," Harry said.
"You found something," Hermione said.
"Yes. I found an advanced training program Salazar created to train dark lord killers," Harry said. Hermione's eyes widened. "The real kicker was that the training program takes place in two alternate universes."
Harry hadn't thought Hermione's eyes could go any wider. He had been wrong. The shock Hermione showed was mirrored by her parents.
"Other universes," Dan said. "What were they like?"
"Both were medieval in their technology filled with magic and dangerous creatures that most wizards would be hard pressed to survive escaping with their lives let alone fighting," Harry said. "Time flows differently in the training program. I've spent years in these other universes. I'm still actively going back and forth."
Hermione was no dummy. Suddenly Harry having experience sexually made sense and a dread began to grow in her.
She reached out with her mind and asked, "Are...are there other women in these universes who you are intimate with?"
Harry met her gaze and answered, "Yes. In one of the universes there is only one. In the other universe there are considerably more. I would understand if you don't want to be with me anymore."
Hermione was a mix of emotions. On the one hand she had fallen in love with her best friend. She hadn't been able to see herself living without him. On the other hand she wondered if she simply wasn't enough. It was at that moment James, Lily, Sirius, and Amelia were transported into the room.
"Rhazael let us know what was going on," Lily said.
"Everyone, these are my parents, James and Lily Potter. This is my godfather Sirius Black. And this is his girlfriend Amelia Bones," Harry introduced.
"I thought your parents were dead," Emma said bewildered. "We got better," James deadpanned.
Lily elbowed her husband and said, "Excuse him. We were saved thanks to Harry's adventures. We can handle the wards right now. I think Harrry and Hermione need to talk."
The adults got up and left the room heading outside. The silence between them for the first time was awkward.
"Why," Hermione said in a quiet voice. "Why...did you sleep with these other women?"
"I had a crush on you before I went down to the chamber to investigate. How could I not? You're brilliant and bloody gorgeous. You've been my best friend for years. I was then thrown into that other world. You don't know what it is like with hormones raging through me. I was presented with opportunities while there for things to happen. They happened. I've lived there for years Hermione," Harry explained.
Hermione met his gaze at that and she asked, "These are more than just passing flings aren't they?"
"Yes. I am married to many of these women. We have children in one of the universes," Harry admitted.
"Do they know about each other?" Hermione asked.
"Yes. Westeros is a different time period," Harry said. "It is not an easy place to live. In the other universe Arya doesn't know. But other than when Leaf visits she is the only woman for me in that universe. And then this universe none of them visit. Leaf is the only one that even knows of other universes."
Hermione was silent as she thought about this.
"I can't say I'm happy about it," Hermione said after a while. "But it would be hypocritical of me to enjoy your experience when we are intimate and to then resent how you gained that experience. I just hadn't realized things were still ongoing."
"You don't have to hear anymore about it," Harry said.
"That's just it Harry. How are you supposed to tell me about your adventures in these other worlds without mentioning the romantic aspect. I don't think you can?" Hermione said.
"You might be right. Just treat it like a story," Harry suggested.
"I can probably try. It will just take me some time to adjust," Hermione pointed out.
"I understand," Harry said.
Hermione drew him into a hug and kissed him. Harry supposed that was the best he could have hoped for.
Granger Residence, Crawley
Emma entered Hermione's room that evening to find Hermione freshly showered sitting in bed with a book. It was such a familiar sight. Yet Emma could tell that Hermione didn't have the focus at the moment to read. It had been Harry's suggestion that Hermione stay at home that night. Thanks to his time travel they could do that for a while. Emma liked having her daughter at home. She suspected Harry would be joining Hermione at some point. Yet it wasn't like they could stop the two magical teens. After Harry had saved their lives today Emma wasn't even inclined to try.
"How are you doing?" Emma asked from the doorway. "I've got a lot on my mind," Hermione admitted. "How are you and dad doing?"
"Your dad is haunted by what he had to do even though he knows it was necessary. We've never felt that helpless. If it wasn't for you and Harry...," Emma said before trailing off leaving the consequences unsaid.
"I don't think I would have gotten us out of it if it wasn't for Harry," Hermione said. "He was something to behold wasn't he," Emma replied with a tone of awe. "I had no idea he was capable of that," Hermione said. "Is that what was on your mind?" Emma asked.
Hermione glanced at her mother worriedly before deciding she needed to talk with someone about it. Who better than her mother. So she told Emma in general terms about Harry's adventures in the other worlds including the existence of the other women.
"I just don't know how to feel," Hermione admitted. "I mean I love Harry even if we haven't said the words out loud to each other yet. I can feel his love for me. This other world thing is beyond me. So are these other families he has established."
"I can't tell you how to feel," Emma admitted. "But maybe it might help at some point to talk to one of these other women. He said this Leaf knew of other worlds. Or you might just ignore the situation for now and focus on your relationship with Harry. From the sounds of it you won't even notice the times when he goes over there."
"I won't," Hermione confirms.
"I would tend to try to focus on the fact that Harry is as strong as he is today because of those journeys. If he hadn't gone on those journeys we would have all been dead. Those people that came for us today were pure evil. If you want to remain with Harry which it sounds like you do then the good must be taken with the bad. I will say that we're just going to keep these other women between you and I for now. Your dad doesn't need to think about that," Emma said.
"Thank you for understanding mum and not going off on some anti-Harry rant. I half expected that," Hermione admitted.
"I'm just glad you can talk to me. Besides, I am so grateful to Harry from what he saved us from that young man gets a lot of slack. My mind is still blown from all that has happened. Him having families in other worlds seems rather tame by comparison," Emma said.
Mother and daughter chatted for a bit longer catching up on their lives before Emma bade Hermione goodnight. Hermione did reach out to Harry who had told her to contact him if she needed anything before she fell asleep. Harry was sleeping in his quarters onboard the Harrion which was cloaked in a clearing within a nearby wooded area. At Hermione's request he joined her in her bed for some cuddles. They fell asleep with one another.
Alagaesia
By dusk, Saphira had already exited Du Weldenvarden and was flying over the auburn fields that separated Du Weldenvarden from the Hadarac desert. They landed near a stream. Harry and Arya made camp before cooking a meal upon the fire. Then Harry went off on his own to prepare a surprise for Arya.
"Alright, you can open your eyes," Harry told Arya who he had been leading by holding her hand with her eyes closed.
Arya opened her eyes to find a stone basin easily large enough to hold both she and Eragon had been carved out of the stone. Heated clean water rested in the basin.
"You've made us a bath," Arya said pleased.
She grinned at her lover and began to remove her clothes. The two lovers bathed each other before engaging in mutual pleasuring of one another. Before bed they both put as much energy as they could spare into the gems Oromis had given Harry. Saphira also joined in on this.
Within an hour of beginning their journey the next day they had reached the Hadarac desert. They had stowed plenty of provisions in his pocket space including water. Barring that water could be drawn out of the ground with magic like they had done in journeys past. A great wind blew Saphira farther and faster than she would have been capable of traveling on her own on the third day. They were out of the Hadarac and camped at the southernmost end of the Silverwood Forest. They washed the desert sand off of them in a stone bath Harry fashioned using waters from the nearby Lake Tudosten.
Late afternoon of the next day they reached the capital of Surda Aberon.
"Take us to Borromeo Castle," Arya directed mentally as she indicated the castle on top of a bluff the city was centered around.
The castle was protected by three walls lined with many watch towers and hundreds of ballistae intended for dragons. The emotions of all the people were felt in the back of Harry's mind thanks to his training. Whenever someone experienced spikes of passion he sensed it. He paid it no mind. He did feel the alarm that rose within those below as they became aware of Saphira.
Twelve men came out of the castle to greet them after Saphira had touched down in the castle's courtyard. A dark skinned man who led them stepped forth from the group.
"Welcome, Rider. I am Dahwar, son of Kedar. I am King Orrin's seneschal," Dahwar introduced himself.
At the speed of thought Harry and Arya discussed how to respond. It was better if Arya's parentage wasn't widely known. She would be in greater danger if it was.
"Greetings," Harry began. "I am Eragon Shadeslayer. My companions are my dragon Saphira and Arya of the elves."
"I offer my apologies that no one of higher rank is here to greet you. King Orrin and the Varden have marched to confront Galbatorix's army. They asked me to request of you to join them if you arrived here asking of them," Dahwar said.
"Of course. Can you show me on a map where they are?" Harry requested.
"I will have a map fetched," Dahwar said. While they waited he asked, "Is there anything you require?"
"No," Harry said. "We have what we need."
"May I assume Shadeslayer that by your presence here you have finished your training with the elves?" Dahwar asked.
"Dahwar, you'll have to forgive me. But Galbatorix has spies in many places. I am not saying you are one. But there are many people around and word travels fast. I cannot divulge any sensitive information about myself," Harry said.
"Of course," Dahwar agreed. "A wise precaution."
Harry could sense that the seneschal was holding back more questions such as why Harry didn't appear human. Soon a map was brought and unrolled on the ground.
"My best estimate is that the Varden could be anywhere between Cithri and the Jiet River. But my gut tells me you should look for them at the Burning Plains," Dahwar suggested.
"Du Vollar Eldrvarya," Arya added so Harry would know the place Dahwar referenced. "Yes. That is what your people call it my lady," Dahwar added.
The plains were filled with deposits of peat which had been lit during a battle between the Riders and foreswarn. The fire had burrowed underground and smoldered to this day. The noxious fumes had made the region uninhabitable.
"Thank you Dahwar," Harry said as they prepared to leave. "Of course my lord," Dahwar replied. Harry sensed a spike in the emotions around them and located it to the stables.
"Dahwar, two of the grooms in the stables have gotten into an argument. One of the grooms, Tathal, intends to murder the other groom. He can be stopped if you send men right away," Harry warned.
"How do you know this Shadeslayer?" Dahwar asked in surprise. "Because I am a Rider," Harry said calmly before Saphira took to the air.
Arya knew of her mate's training and said, "That will lead to the legends of the Riders growing."
"I know," Harry confirmed. "Yet people need to believe in something."
They did not stop that night. They took turns sleeping holding one another on Saphira's back. They did stop the next morning to stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and eat breakfast. After they took off again, they saw a brown smudge in the horizon. By late morning the smudge had grown to encompass the entire sky ahead. These were the burning plains.
As they descended through the fume layer Harry cast a spell to dispel the fumes around himself, Arya, and Saphira. Closer to the ground the fumes cleared. The ground was cast in an organe light that had been filtered by the fume layer. The Jiet river cut through the plain. Along the eastern bank of the Jiet River was the Varden bolstered by King Orrin's forces. Yet their size paled in comparison to the army of the Empire to the north. The empire's forces were three miles wide at the thickest and petered into the distance. Two miles separated the two forces. Ragged orifices which occasionally spewed orange flames and fumes marked the earth between the two armies.
Harry extended his senses to look for avenues of attack from enemy magicians as Saphira dove for the Varden's forces. The sentinels of the Varden experienced panic at the sudden appearance of a dragon. A flock of arrows was released from the Varden's sentinels towards Saphira.
Harry said a spell which made the arrows insubstantial. "They won't harm us," Harry mentally warned Saphira and Arya.
The arrows flew threw the trio harmlessly. Saphira touched down among the Varden's tents running to shed momentum. The people of the Varden stared in surprise at their sudden arrival. One of the people nearby was the familiar form of Frederic, the Varden's weapons master.
"Back to your posts. Don't just stand there watching," Frederic shouted at the gawking people. Frederic came closer and struggled to hide his surprise at the change in Harry's appearance. "Welcome Shadeslayer. I am ashamed you were attacked. Were any of you hurt?"
"We were not," Arya assured. "Aye. We are fine," Harry agreed.
"The men responsible will be whipped and reduced in rank," Frederic said. "Will that satisfy you Shadeslayer?"
"Do not punish them," Harry said. "They were doing their duty. Perhaps in the future ask them to be a little more careful."
"Of course," Frederic said. "If you'll follow me I can take you to the command tent."
Harry nodded and began to follow Frederic. They arrived at a red pavilion at the back of the encampment. When they entered Nasuada was the only one currently present.
"Eragon, Arya," Nasuada said surprised. Then she looked closer at Eragon and said, "What has happened to you?"
"Some allies changed me to better my chances of winning the war to come," Harry said. "That is all I will reveal on these allies."
"I see," Nasuada said. "I imagine these allies are the same ones who have provided us food and supplies. Their help is greatly appreciated."
"I believe they are one and the same," Harry said.
"My queen has sent guards for Eragon ahead of us along with Orik. I believe they will be arriving shortly," Arya said.
"That is a relief to hear. Even though he must fight his safety is paramount to the war," Nasuda said. "Did you happen to see Hrothgar's forces on the way here?"
"We did not," Arya said. "But we flew on a straight path here often over the clouds."
"Saphira points out that it would make more sense for Hrothgar to go more established roads rather than marching through the wilderness which is what we flew over," Harry added.
"She makes sense," Nasuada agreed. "We are hoping for Hrothgar's reinforcements." "Has there been any contact with the Empire's forces?" Arya asked.
"Yes. They asked for our surrender. We replied by refusing and now we await their response," Nasuada explained. "We estimate there are close to a hundred thousand men in the Empire's forces, most of them are conscripted."
"Such men who are forced into service may flee if sufficiently frightened," Arya noted. "Yes. And they won't be so eager to fight and die for Galbatorix," Harry added. "That is our hope as well," Nasuada agreed. "I should introduce you to King Orrin."
As they exited the pavilion Blodgharm and the other eleven elves assigned to guard Harry approached led by Orik. Harry had used one of his duplicates to free them from storage and told them the plan of how to disguise how they had been transported. He didn't want it general knowledge that he could transport his guards and supplies this way. It would be a better surprise for their enemies.
"Nasuada, this is Blodgharm and the rest of my bodyguards," Harry said before introducing the group one by one.
"It is a pleasure to meet you," Nasuada said while blushing at Blodgharm in particular.
All elves seemed to have an effect on humans as far as attractiveness went. Blodgharm would prove to be especially attractive to human women.
"And you as well Lady Nasuada," Blodgharm answered.
Orrin's pavilion was white and yellow. When they entered it was packed with rudimentary chemistry glassware. In this time King Orrin would be referred to as a natural philosopher who studied all of what would be referred to as the natural sciences in Harry's world.
"Orrin, I would like to introduce you to Eragon, Saphira, and Arya," Nasuada said.
Orrin was a tall handsome man with a mind protected by mental barriers. Orrin was pleasant enough. Orrin asked a lot of questions about the elves. When he learned there were twelve more elves waiting just outside of the pavilion Orrin hurried out to meet them and began asking his questions of them.
While this was going on Orrin's many nobles paraded past insistent upon shaking Harry's hand. They were honored to meet a Rider and invited him to their estates to visit.
"That was interesting," Harry told Nasuada after they left Orrin's pavilion.
"That's a polite way of putting it," Nasuada said.
"It is indeed," Arya agreed.
Orik excused himself then to go meet up with the dwarves Nasuada had informed him had come in advance of Hrothgar's forces.
"What shall you do now?" Nasuada asked.
Eragon was not under her command. He was an ally, a powerful one at that. Aiding him would likely aid their cause.
"I will set up tents for my guards and I," Harry said. "Then I will meet with Trianna and arrange to work with Du Vrangr Gata during the battle."
"I will leave them in your hands then," Nasuada said. "If you need anything please let me know."
They parted ways with Nasuada and headed towards a clear area of the encampment where they could set up. Harry decided that since these elves had sworn to protect him with their lives they deserved a little bit of his trust. When they reached the area where the tents would go he cast a powerful Notice-Me-Not charm on the area while excluding the elves and Saphira.
"That was powerful magic Shadeslayer," Blodgharm said.
"Magic I've never felt the likes of before," Invidia, another of the twelve guards, said.
The guards consisted of Blodgharm, Invidia, Laufin, Uthinare, Wyrden, Yaela, Tunaia, Rathor, Howaden, Tothen, Sutara, and Luana.
"There is a reason for that. What has been suspected by Oromis Elda is that I am possibly descended from the Grey Folk. Regardless of if I am or not it seems they have taken an interest in me for I have learned some of their magics. These are powerful magics. I would ask that you keep anything you see me use to only those in our group," Harry said.
"Of course Shadeslayer. We will keep your secrets," Blodgharm said. "We will swear to it," Yaela added.
Yaela was the first to swear in the ancient language yet not the last. One by one the elves made the oath to keep what they saw only to their small group unless Eragon released them to speak of it with others.
"Thank you," Harry said. "The reason I speak of this now is because I have a magic which will let us live more comfortably."
Harry gestured and two tents he had been working on appeared out of storage. Another gesture caused the tents to erect themselves. One tent was appropriately sized for Saphira, Harry, and Arya. The other tent was sized to hold the twelve bodyguards but looked like it would be cramped. Harry led the way into the bodyguard's tent to reveal it was not cramped in any way whatsoever. It very spacious. There were actual solid walls inside. Twelve bedrooms each with its own bathroom were in the tent along with a communal cooking area and a living room. The toilets were runically charmed to provide a simulation of indoor plumbing.
"This is obviously bigger on the inside than outside," Sutara said. "Yes. This is the greatest working of magic I have ever seen," Laufin exclaimed. There were similar exclamations from the other guards.
"I can feel the protections on the entrance," Blodgharm said as he held his hand near the entrance. "Though I can not determine what they do. May I assume there are similar protections on your tent?"
"Yes," Harry assured. "I doubt Galbatorix himself could enter these tents without being invited. You all have been keyed into the defenses."
"Then we will rest soundly knowing you are safe Shadeslayer. Even still two of us will remain on watch at all times," Blodgharm said.
"We will leave you to get settled in while we do so ourselves," Harry said. Harry, Arya, and Saphira went next door to their tent.
"Saphira, if you will excuse us I need to show my appreciation to my lover for his skill with magic," Arya said.
Saphira sent amusement towards them. The truth was that Saphira sometimes tapped into Harry's mind during his sexual encounters with Arya and experienced them for herself. Arya was aware of this and did not mind. It was the only way Saphira could currently get any relief after all without another dragon around. Arya pulled Harry into their bedroom. They did not emerge for some time.