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 23
When Harry's group emerged from the underground tunnel it was after two days of travel. He found himself standing on a granite outcropping over a hundred feet above a lake which glistened purple in the sun. The Az Ragni river flowed out of the lake's far side. To the left of the outcropping was the dwarf city Tarnag. Tarnag was a series of terraces carved into the mountainside. The lower terraces were for farming. Squat halls carved of stone dotted the terraces. The terraces interlocked until at the top there was a giant domed structure made of gold and white stone.
"The temple is Celbedeil, the greatest temple of dwarfdom. It is home to Durgrimst Quan, the Quan clan. The Quan clan serves as messengers and servants to the gods," Orik explained.
"Is Tarnag made up only of this clan?" Harry asked.
"No. The Quan are strong but small in number," Arya answered before Orik could. "The Ragni Hefthyn, the River Guard clan, which controls Tarnag. Their clan chief Undin will host us during our stay here."
Arya led the way off the outcropping into the forest that separated them from Tarnag. "Your tone of voice changed when speaking of the Quan clan," Harry noted to Arya. "Why?"
"Because every time she visits she gets into an argument with their clan members," Orik answered this time. "About their religious beliefs."
As they drew closer to Tarnag a creature carrying a dwarf with a drawn bow on its back came crashing out of the forest. The creature looked like an oversized mountain goat with massive ribbed horns.
"Hert durgrimst? Fild rastn," The dwarf challenged.
Orik responded in his language with several sentences. After an exchange the goat leapt forward covering a large distance quickly and disappeared into the forest.
"What was that creature?" Harry asked curiously.
"It was a Feldunost. There are five such creatures unique to these mountains with a dwarf clan named after each. Durgrimst Feldunost is renowned for its bravery. We also depend on the Feldunost for milk, wool, and meat. When Galbatorix terrorized us it was Feldunost that risked themselves to tend the herds and fields. My people are in their debt.
"Those would be good hunting," Saphira pointed out. "It would probably be a bad idea. You could offend them," Harry replied.
As Harry's group drew closer to the city, seven Feldunost with jeweled harnesses and riders carrying lances tipped with pennants rode out to meet them.
"Thou art welcome to this city of Tarnag. By otho of Undin and Gannel, I, Thorv, son of Brokk, offer in peace the shelter of our halls," Thorv, the lead dwarf, said.
"And by Hrothgar's otho, we of Ingeitum accept your hospitality," Orik replied. "As do I in Islanzadi's stead," Arya added.
The riders took up formation around Harry's group and led them into the city. They passed through a forty foot thick wall and five farming tiers each with its own gate before entering the city proper. The buildings within often had animal carvings upon them and were constructed of stone with vibrant hues of many different colors. Tarnag was built solely built for dwarves. Doors were five feet high at most. They passed through the market place where many exotically dressed dwarves were haggling. Harry studied the dwarf women which he hadn't had much chance to see in Tronjheim. They were wider than the men with heavyset faces. They possessed sparkling eyes and lustrous hair. Many of the dwarves bowed and murmured "Shadeslayer" when they saw the new arrivals. The hammer and stars upon the helm gifted to Harry evoked reactions of shock and in some cases outrage. Some of these angrier dwarves closed in around the escort Feldunost and began shouting. Thorv and his guards cut through this without trouble and led them to the second to last tier before Celbedeil. He led them to a specific hall that was fairly large.
Before Harry's group could reach this large hall a group of dwarves filed out from between houses and blocked off the street. These dwarves wore long purple veils over their faces down over their shoulders. The apparent leader began shouting in dwarvish. When Thor started responding back Harry picked up the other dwarf's name being Vrron. Tense dwarvish was exchanged back and forth. Orik too joined the conversation. The confrontation ended with Vrron drawing a ring from his pocket, twining some hairs from his beard around it, and threw the ring to the street. This must have been a harsh act because the other dwarves in Harry's party winced.
Orik retrieved the ring after the veiled dwarves had left.
"That did not seem to go well," Saphira sent.
"No it did not," Harry agreed.
The party hurried into the large hall that had been their destination. A group of dwarves was waiting near a banquet table.
One of the dwarves sheathed in a cloak of wolf skin spread his arms and said, "Welcome Eragon Shadeslayer. We have heard much of you. I am Undin, son of Derund, and clean chief."
A second dwarf stepped forward and said, "And I, Gannel, son of Orm Blood-ax and clan chief of Durgrimst Quan."
"Saphira and I thank you for your hospitality," Harry said. "It is an honor to meet you both." When he was greeted, Orik showed the ring to Undin. "Who gave this to you?" Undin asked as he took the ring. "Az Sweldn rak Anhuin gave it to Eragon," Orik explained which caused alarm.
Harry thought maybe he had been mistaken about the dwarf's name being Vrron. The advisors surrounding Undin began muttering.
"I must consult with my advisors on this matter," Undin said. "Shadeslayer, a feast has been prepared in your honor. If you would allow my servants to guide you to your room you might refresh yourself.""
"I would appreciate that," Harry said.
Harry was shown to his room. He was allowed some time to refresh himself before being shown back to the feast area. Saphira had kept Harry apprised of events while he was in his room. Undin had summoned extra warriors and had the gates barred. Things were looking grim indeed.
"Sit next to me please," Undin invited while gesturing to the seat at the table next to himself.
Undin called out for food and the feast began. Large quantities of meats, pies, and fruit were being piled onto the tables by servants. Mushrooms of all varieties were also cooked and on the table. The centerpiece of the feast was a giant roasted boar the size of Snowfire.
"It's called Nagra, giant boar," Orik whispered from where he sat on Harry's other side. Arya sat across from Harry. "It is a true honor because only the bravest who hunt Nagran. I believe he is also making a statement that he will support you over Durgrimst Nagra."
Portions of the Nagra were carved off from the boar and deposited on every plate except Arya's. Even Saphira got a sizeable portion. The flavor of the boar due to the spices was delicious. The meal lasted hours.
"The meal pleased you?" Undin asked Harry. "Very much so. It was delicious. Thank you," Harry said. "My compliments to your cooks."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. I had the tables moved outside so that the dragon might join us," Undin said.
"Saphira just told me how much she appreciates it," Harry said which was untrue.
Saphira had been less than pleased by being referred to as the dragon. Harry had already been warned that there had long been enmity between dragons and dwarves.
"Arya, can you explain what was going on with that ring?" Harry sent to her, deciding to get this conversation over with.
"That particular clan has a tragic history. Their location on the western edge of the Beors contributed to their downfall. They also contributed their greatest warriors in Vrael's service," Arya explained. "These warriors were slaughtered by Galbatorix and the Forswarn in Uru'baen. Then they flew on the dwarves killing many. From that clan only Grimstcarvlorss Anhuin along with her guards survived. Anhuin died of grief not long after. Her men took the name Az Sweldn rak Anhuin which means The Tears of Anhuin. They cover their faces to remind themselves of their loss and desire for revenge. The clan has been rebuilt waiting for revenge. The ring means they set themselves utterly against you and will oppose you at every turn. They declare you their blood enemy."
"Because I am a Rider?" Harry sent. "That and likely because of Hrothgar inviting you into his clan," Arya explained.
Harry and Arya conversed some more mentally while the festivities wore down. Then they retired for the night.
The next morning when Harry entered the main hall it was to find Orik an Undin having a discussion in dwarvish.
"Shadeslayer, I hope you slept well," Undin said as he gestured for Harry to sit nearby. "I did thank you," Harry said.
"Orik and I have been discussing when it would be best for you to depart. Originally I had hoped for you to stay longer. But given the circumstances we feel it best if you depart tomorrow morning when the streets are less filled with those who might trouble you. Hrothgar's request was for three guards to accompany you as far as Ceris. I have increased that to seven given what has happened."
"Thank you," Harry said even though he din't feel it necessary. "Are there any plans for me for the day?"
"Grimstborith Gannel has extended an invitation to Celbedeil for the day. You do not have to accept. If you accept you'll be safe with him," Undin explained.
Harry nodded and thought it over. He would like to see Celbedeil. When he made to leave the gates surrounding Undin's hall he was accompanied by five armed dwarves. The city streets were rather deserted where Harry traveled.
"Probably because of this blood feud business," Harry thought.
He soon reached the gates of Celbedeil. The guards stayed outside when Harry was shown through the gates surrounding Celbedeil. A dwarf dressed in black guided Harry into the temple. He smelled heavy incense and perfume. The grounds were decoraded with many colored gems, red gold, yellow gold, and jade. The wealth displayed and worked into art was fabulous. Harry followed his guide. The temple itself had no cloth decorations. Instead it had statues carved with monsters and deitites often locked in epic battles. They traveled up several fights of stairs through a copper door into a room that had a wooden floor. Armor was on the walls along with the same staff swords that Angela had used to fight in the battle of Farthen Dur. Gannel the clan chief was sparring with three younger dwarves. Gannel won. He dismissed his opponents when done.
"I have only seen that staff sword used by one other," Harry said.
"You mean Angela. Yes. She is the only one outside of us that has one. She won it from a priest using a contest of riddles," Gannel explained. "Hrothgar asked me to acquaint you with dwarf traditions if you accepted his request to become Ingeitum," He explained as he handed Harry a mug of ale. "This has never been taught to an outsider before. You cannot share it with other outsiders. But without this knowledge you cannot uphold what it means to be knurla. Do you understand?"
"I do," Harry confirmed. Harry was led through the temple to a dimly lit room thick with incense and a single statue.
"This is Guntera, King of the Gods. He is a warrior and a scholar," Gannel explained before going into detail on the nature of their god along with how to properly pay homage.
What followed were lessons on the dwarven pantheon of gods and their history. Harry listened and wondered if these deities actually existed in this universe. Perhaps he would find out with time. After the lessons, Gannel gifted Harry a necklace with a silver hammer charm on the end.
"What is this for?" Harry asked.
"After the battle, Hrothgar worried that Galbatorix would use an image he gained of you to scry you," Gannel explained. "This hammer is spelled to prevent scrying until either the danger has passed or you take off the necklace. It will draw upon your strength while it prevents you from being scried."
"Thank you," Harry said.
They came to a gallery where a large mural was showing the creation of the dwarves by their god Helzvog. The mural stood out from the surface. Harry had seen pictures of similar pieces of art during his art class back in primary school. He recognized the technique as some type of enamel. Beyond that he was more interested in the scene depicted by the mural. Gannel walked him through each part of it. The mural showed the dwarves as nomads on a large plain. Then the plain turned hot enough it forced the dwarves south into the Beors. This mural had shown the formation of the Hadarac desert. The dwarven history was laid out in detail. Harry noted the first meeting between dwarves and elves. Dragons were frequent visitors in the mural burning and slaughtering dwarves. The war between elves and dragons was depicted by much destruction on Algaesia. The form of a young elf kneeling on a cliff holding a white dragon egg ended the darkness from the war. This was the first Rider, the first Eragon. Arya entered the chamber at that point.
"Grimstborith," Arya greeted Gannel. "Arya," Gannel replied.
"I see you are educating Eragon on your mythology," Arya said. To Harry she sent, "Don't believe everything you are told."
"Trust me. I don't," Harry assured. "I am being respectful."
"Good," Arya replied. Out loud she said, "Az Sweldn rak Anhuin has inflame many of the citizens of Tarnag against you. It would be safest for everyone if you returned to Undin's hall until we leave. We do not doubt your ability to defend yourself. It would be best to prevent
needless bloodshed."
"Agreed," Harry said. Harry turned to Gannel and said, "I think you for the information you have shared with me today."
Harry inclined his head slightly. Gannel returned the gesture. Harry and Arya left the temple together with a dozen guards. The shouts of an angry mob were heard from a lower tier. Smoke rose in another part of the city.
"It is unfortunate that so much strife exists even with a supposed ally," Arya said.
"Isn't that the way of the world though? Allies fight amongst each other only weakening us against the true enemy," Harry said.
Arya glanced at her companion and saw how calm he was. It was times like this that he reminded her he was wise beyond his physical years.
"Yes," Arya said simply.
Once back in Undin's hall they quickly got reay to go. Fifty dwarf gards joined them in the courtyard. It was then a waiting game until it was time to go. Arya sat next to Harry against Saphira.
"I wonder if perhaps Hrothgar will come to regret his offer for you to join his clan when he hears of this," Arya said.
"I suppose it is possible. I could have turned him down," Harry pointed out. "Not easily without offending him. He shouldn't have made the offer," Arya said. Harry nodded his agreement. "Tell me more about Ellesmera," Harry requested.
Arya nodded and began to do so. Arya had spent more of her life outside of her homeland than inside. Despite that, she still had plenty of stories to tell about the realm of her people. When she noticed how late it was getting Arya said something.
"You should get some rest," Arya said. "I will remain aware for both of us."
Harry nodded knowing the elves had some kind of almost meditative trance instead of sleep. He let himself drift off leaning back against Saphira. Arya also happened to be leaning against the dragon and Rider as she let herself drift into her trance. Harry awoke first the next morning to the feeling of a hand resting on his manhood. His eyes opened and he beheld the sight of Arya holding his firm manhood. Her hand fell away almost as soon as he came awake. He wasn't sure if she was aware of what she had been doing. She in fact hadn't been aware. When she
came back to full awareness a few minutes later it was from a very erotic night dream involving her companion. By that point Harry had managed to compose himself.
"Good morning," Harry greeted. "Good morning," Arya replied. "Did you sleep well?" "I did," Harry replied. "Did you have a restful night?" "I did," Arya confirmed.
Saphira awoke at that point. The dwarves were stirring and getting ready to go. Soon enough everyone was ready. Arya and Harry had made no mention of where her hand had wandered during the night. Harry wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth by questioning it. Perhaps Arya was aware. Perhaps she wasn't. He tended to think she wasn't consciously aware because she acted too normally around him. The party set out at first light as quietly as possible. Tarnag was virtually deserted at this hour. Very few dwarves encountered the party moving silently through the streets. They made it out of the city without incident. At the edge of the water beyond Tarnag's field were two wide rafts and seven dwarves upon them. Harry used his abilities to mentally calm Snowfire and secure the horse on the raft. Saphira slipped into the water easily.
"This is where we part," Undin said. "My best men will see you safely to Du Weldenvarden."
"Thank you Undin for your hospitality," Harry said.
"Of course," Undin said with a slight bow. "Travel safe Shadeslayer."
Harry boarded the raft Arya and Orik were on. The dwarves launched the watercraft using long poles to steer as they were headed towards the mouth of the Az Ragni.
Roran entered Horst's house where the prominent members of Carvahall had been sequestered most of the morning deliberating what actions to take. Primary among the discussions was if Horst and the others should be punished for the actions they took.
"We should leave," Fisk suggested. "We have nowhere to go," Kiselt pointed out.
"You could go to the Varden in Surda," Leaf said as she appeared in the corner of the room to the left of the door.
Roran happened to be closest but couldn't see who had spoken from where he was standing outside the door. He just saw everyone scramble back. There were one or two screams from the
women present. "What are you?" Horst asked as Roran stepped in the room. Leaf met Roran's eyes as she answered, "A friend." "Are you one of the Grey Folk?" Gertrude asked.
"I am a friend. I am called Leaf," Leaf explained. "I cannot explain more than that to you at this time. I shall tell you simply that you leaving would be best. The Varden are in Surda." She looked to Roran and held out her right hand. A glowing green gem appeared in her hand and floated over to Roran. "This shall help you in your task. Place it in the main road into town."
And then Leaf was completely gone. There was silence in the room as everyone took in what had just happened.
"This changes things," Loring said.
"How?" Horst asked.
"We need to leave and follow her suggestion," Fisk pointed out.
"We know nothing about her," Horst cautioned.
Furious debate broke out.
"Silence," Horst finally said. "Roran, before Leaf showed up we had been intending to ask you to organize the defense of the village from the next attack. Would you do that while we talk?"
"I can do that," Roran agreed.
Roran left the room with the gem he had been given in his palm. The gem felt warm to the touch in his grasp. He felt an urge to take the gem to a particular location in the street. There were many villagers around.
"Roran, what is going on?" Darmmen, one of Loring's sons, asked.
"Leave him be boy," Horst said as he followed behind Roran.
The rest of the council trailed behind Roran having decided to come at some strange urging. Roran set the gem down in the road and stepped back. The gem began to grow brighter and brighter. The light seemed to flow into a circle surrounding the village. As the villagers watched in amazement the ground in a deep and wide trench opened up in a circle surrounding the village. Suddenly hundreds of sapplings began to sprout out of the ground. The sapplings grew quickly into trees. The trees grew together until they were tightly interwoven. There were no branches on the outside side of the trees. On the inside branches began to grow into sizes
which would make good climbing surfaces. The trees grew to about thirty feet tall and then stopped. Their trunks were far thicker than a tree that height had any right to be.
Thorny briars began to grow up the trees on the outside. The thorns were large and wicked looking. The growth stopped and the green gem flew back into Roran's hand. The crowd of villagers that had gathered to watch the magic at work began talking and whispering. There were even a few shouts.
"People, calm down," Horst called. It took several shouts and Horst waving his hands to do so. "A short while ago a creature who may have been one of the legendary Grey Folk appeared to us. Her name was Leaf. She gave Roran the gem which just did what you saw. It is obvious she did it to help defend us."
"How are we supposed to get out?" A man shouted.
"We can make rope ladders to climb in and out," Orval, another man, suggested.
Roran suddenly knew he could pass through the wall. He wasn't sure how he knew. But he stepped towards the wall. He held out the hand which held the gem. He seemed to just fade through the wall. When he came back through all the villagers were staring at him.
"I think this allows me to go through the wall. I think I can take others," Roran said. "We can get our cattle through one at a time," A man called. "How can we trust this creature?" Another man shouted. "We don't have any choice," Horst pointed out. "She has only shown helpfulness."
Questions were asked and answered for more than an hour before the gathering broke up. It was discovered through trial and error that the gem only worked for Roran. He spent the rest of the day conveying people and cattle through the wall and briars. The gem took them through the briars as well. Meanwhile, the villagers built platforms at the top of the trees from which to fight from. They also built shields and spears. In the few free moments he got Roran spent the time wondering why him. Why did Leaf give him the gem and not somebody older and wiser. He didn't have an answer to his question.
That night Katrina found Roran. She immediately kissed him. "I had to see you," Katrina said after the kiss had ended. "I am glad," Roran said. "Are you alright?" Katrina asked.
"I have killed now. And now I have this," Roran said as he held up for the gem for her to inspect.
Katrina stared at it in wander.
"Magic," Katrina whispered. "Why did she give it to you?"
"I've been asking myself that same question," Roran said. "I have no answer. But there is a more pressing question I must have an answer for. An answer only you can give," He added. "Katrina, will you marry me?"
Katrina looked surprised. She had not expected him to ask now. But it was something she had been hoping for.
"Yes. Yes I will marry you," Katrina said.
The two kissed and spent some more time together. Katrina had to return home or her father would notice.
The next morning Roran learned that the Ra'zac had positioned soldiers so that the women and children wouldn't be able to get down the valley to Cawley's farm where they would be safe. It was mid-day when something happened.
"By continuing to defend Carvahall you have sealed your fate. You shall all die," A Raz'zac hissed through the wall.
Suddenly dozens of arrows came flying over the wall. Roran wasn't hit. Many villagers were not so lucky. Roran didn't have time to dwell on that though. The attack at the main road into the village was a diversion. Shouts rose up from a different part of the wall that wasn't very well guarded. Roran took off running. He came running down a side street between several hours to see half a dozen soldiers had scaled the wall and made it over. Sloan was the only other man there. Katrina's father was attacking with a zeal Roran had never seen. Roran had been carrying one of the spears given to him by Horst. He threw the spear and hit one of the soldiers in the chest. The enemy dropped clutching the spear. The next several moments were heated battle.
Roran's hammer parried a blow by a sword. His shield blocked the jab of another sword. Roran whipped his hammer around caving in the helm of one of his opponents. He didn't hesitate as he blocked another blow. Roran was surprised at how his hammer seemed to always be where it needed to block the strikes against him. He would learn much later that this was thanks to an enchantment laid upon the hammer by his cousin. Roran felled two more soldiers while Sloan finished off the rest.
"You fight well," Roran complimented.
"They will never touch Katrina," Sloan said. "I will skin them all and kill the king myself before I allow it to happen."
"Most likely you'll die before that happens," Roran thought to himself. "But I have no trouble agreeing that Katrina will not be allowed to come to harm."
When Roran and Sloan returned to the main road it was to find a ten year old boy, Elmund, son of Delwin, with an arrow in his side. The boy wasn't yet dead. He soon would be.
"Press the stone against his side as you draw out the arrow," Leaf's voice suddenly sounded in Roran's mind.
Roran rushed over and said, "Let me help." "What can you do?" Delwin cried as he struggled to comfort his son.
"This," Roran said as he slowly pulled the arrow out and pressed the green stone to Elmund's side.
The boy cried out in pain. But the green glow from the stone intensified and filled the wound. Soon the arrow was out. As those present watched the wound slowly closed up and the glow faded. There was stunned silence.
"Elmund," Delwin shouted in relief as he hugged his son. "There are others injured," Horst said to Roran.
Roran nodded and went to help. The stone worked on all but the worst cases. Roran was very tired after helping. It was worth it though. He saw the amazed looks the other villagers were giving him.
As the rafts wound their way down the river over the next day Harry made it a point to learn the names of his guards. His guards were named Ama, Trihga, Hedin, Ekksvar, Shrrgnien, Duthmer, and Thorv. The guards were busy either steering or were in the cabins on top of each raft. Harry stayed out on the raft outside of the cabins for the most part.
At one point, Harry was standing near Arya when he suggested, "We should go flying."
"I have never traveled this route through the air," Arya admitted. "I would like to see it."
It was a simple matter for Saphira to swim close and the two to hop on her back. To Arya it was becoming common place to find herself on the dragon's back with her arms wrapped around the Rider. It was something she enjoyed. As Saphira rose both Harry and Arya got a fantastic view of the beors. Harry was using a sticking charm on his calves and thighs to keep himself secured against Sahpira's back. Three creatures detached themselves from one of the mountains and rose quickly. These creatures were twenty feet long with attenuated tails and leathery wings. They
actually looked like smaller, thinner versions of dragons. They were more serpentine as well. The creatures were green and brown.
"Fanghur," Arya supplied to the minds of Harry and Saphira. "They are not as intelligent as dragons but are still dangerous. Please don't kill them. They are rare enough creatures."
"I will try not to," Saphira said as the creatures began circling them. "Can they breath fire?"
"No. But their cry is both sound and mental. It immobilizes their prey's mind so they can better hunt," Arya sent just before the three creatures let out a cry which seemed to pierce at their mental shields.
Harry quickly strengthened his mental shields and helped Saphira do the same. Arya had already been prepared for it. One of the Fanghur darted towards Saphira. She let out a large gout of flame which the creature desperately avoided. Saphira followed up with several more gouts of flame at the other Fanghur. The Fanghur quickly decided Saphira was not an easy meal and fled.
"I wonder if they are related to dragons somehow," Harry mused.
"The question has been asked and studied by my people. We have no conclusive results. But the general belief is that they are related somehow," Arya said. "Perhaps we should return to the raft."
Harry nodded. Saphira lazily spiraled back down to the raft.
"Are you hurt?" Orik called when Saphira settled back into the water.
"We are fine," Harry answered.
"Perhaps you should not fly while still in the Beors Shadeslayer," Thorv said. "We cannot guard you in the air against windvipers."
"I will not fly until we reach the plains," Harry agreed.
That night they set up camp near a small stream in tents. Harry got his own tent and Arya her own. Really he would have liked to have been sharing with Arya. Leaf kept him company making up for it. Leaf was going back and forth between Palancar Valley and where Harry was traveling. Thanks to her learned ability to apparate she had no trouble doing this.
They reached the plains midday of the following day. It was a seemingly endless expanse of grass. The dwarves grew nervous once the river took them out of the mountains. Harry had no trouble with it.
"Do magic users get dreams of the future in this world?" Harry asked Arya as he sat next to her on the raft.
Harry had experienced one of these dreams the night before outside of his usual green-sight visions.
"We call them premonitions," Arya answered. "And to answer your question yes. We have not perfected the process of being able to use them once. But an elf once managed to prove he could avoid the future seen. He had a premonition of killing his own son on the battlefield. So that elf killed himself and prevented the outcome he foresaw."
"A rather extreme action to mitigate an uncertain future," Harry mused. "Do the premonitions always come true? Surely there have been less extreme premonitions that others have allowed to come to pass."
"They do not always come to pass," Arya admitted. "But they often do. Why do you ask? Did you experience a premonition?"
"Yes. I've experienced them before," Harry admitted. "And I experienced one last night about a future battle."
"I would not let it trouble you. But if you can use it do so," Arya suggested. "Have your people ever experimented with scrying the past?" Harry asked curiously.
"They have. Please do not attempt to do so. Some of our greatest sages died in the attempt. They got a blurry image for their efforts and the spell consumed all their energy. Time magic is a tricky thing," Arya said.
This was true. Harry hadn't gotten it right without the help of some really intelligent beings. "I will be wary of it," Harry agreed.
When they made camp for the night Harry decided to get in some sword practice. He drew Zar'roc and then focused on generating illusions of Urgals materializing in the clearings.
"Urgals," Thorv cried as he drew his weapon. "Be at peace," Arya cautioned. "They are illusions."
The illusionary Urgals began to attack Harry and he began to counter. Arya was surprised when the sound of steel meeting steel was heard upon the weapons meeting. Eragon appeared to actually be encountering force. The level of control over the magic he was displaying was astounding. He was either one of the most gifted natural magicians she had ever encountered or there were forces at play she didn't understand. He swiftly began to cut down his foes. When an urgal fell it lay upon the ground dead before vanishing. About a minute into the sparring session a back spasm was triggered. The urgals seemed to go hazy for a moment as he dropped to one knee. Eragon groaned and grimaced.
"Shadeslayer," Orik said with worry.
Harry waved a hand waving the dwarf off. Then he grunted through the pain and rose to his feet. Despite the obvious pain he was in he persevered. The sparring session continued with every movement causing the Rider intense pain. By the end of the next thirty seconds the pain seemed to have stopped. Harry was left drenched in sweat. Arya and all the dwarves present had to admire his perseverance. When he was done Harry sheathed Zar'roc and set the blade aside. He calmly walked into the edge of the river and began to wash off clothes and all. That night as he was laying trying to sleep Arya slipped into his tent. She sent out a spell to silence sound outside the tent.
"I would like to massage your back to see if that helps with the pain from the scar. I do not expect it to help heal the scar. But it might allow you to shed some of the pain and sleep better," Arya said.
"You don't have to convince me," Harry said. "Turn over and remove your tunic," Arya directed.
Harry did so. Arya knelt beside him and began massaging his back. He wasn't sure she was consciously using any magic. But he certainly sensed a small amount of magic playing through her fingers and palms. It felt wonderful. Harry wasn't sure how long it went on for. When she finally drew her hands away he was very sleepy.
"Sleep Eragon," Arya whispered into the dark. "Thank you," Harry replied.
Arya slipped out of the tent and back to her own. Massaging Eragon had gotten her more aroused than she would have thought. She decided to take care of herself before slipping into her dream-trance.
Days passed as the group traveled through the plains. Harry began to fly with Saphira daily. Arya would often join them. They reached the dwarf trading post called Hedarth situated at the juncture between the Az Ragni and Edda rivers. The dwarves all got donkies. Harry mounted Snowfire. Arya refused a donkey.
"I will simply run," Arya said. "And keep pace without tiring?" Thorv asked with a raised eyebrow. "Yes," Arya said.
"You can ride with me," Harry offered. "Snowfire can easily handle us both."
Arya looked at the horse and gave a nod. She climbed onto the horse behind him. They followed the Edda river north to Eldor Lake. Du Weldenvarden was visible three days after that. The forest was massive visible from horizon to horizon even upon Saphira. It went far beyond the horizon as well. Arya had grown tenser and tenser the closer they had gotten to her home. That night she decided to begin his etiquette lessons. She asked him out away from camp.
"Humans and dwarves share many similarities in culture. Elves are not the same," Arya explained.
"Before we get to that will you tell me why you are growing so tense?" Harry asked.
Arya was silent for several long moments before she said, "I suppose you will find out soon enough. My mother is Queen Islanzadi."
Harry's eyes widened momentarily. "I see," Harry said.
"Do not let it change the way you see me," Arya said. "I am still the same as I have been. You will see certain expectations of me while I am here and a difference in the way I am treated. I wanted to serve my people. Becoming the egg bearer was how I thought best to do that."
"I understand," Harry said. "Does anyone else know?"
"Outside of the elves only Brom knew. And he told no one," Arya said.
"I will not tell anyone. But I imagine Orik will learn the truth," Harry said.
"I have realized that," Arya said with a nod and a grimace.
"So your mother is the queen. Is that the only reason you were tense or is it something more?" Harry asked.
"When I took up the position of egg bearer my mother was furious. She did not think I should put myself at risk so. We had a terrible fight," Arya explained as her thoughts drifted back to those things said in anger.
"You're worried she won't be happy to see you," Harry realized.
"Yes," Arya confirmed. "Our meetings have been strained whenever we have met. She has been rather cold the times she hasn't tried to convince to give up the egg bearer position."
"I would imagine that the thought she had lost you would change her perspective on things," Harry pointed out.
"You may be right. My near death has certainly changed my perspective on things," Arya admitted. "Because of my agelessness it is easy to forget that I can still die due to injury."
"I can see how that would be," Harry agreed. "Let me ask you something. I remember all of our talks about elven etiquette. I hope this doesn't offend you. At what age do elves typically pair off?"
"You mean relationships," Arya said. "Elven relationships are different than those of humans or even dwarves. Sometimes we do not choose to pair off. Many elves have more than one partner. Given our immortality that is often more popular than pairing off. My mother and father were married. But that doesn't mean they weren't with others of our kind. To answer your question I am still considered very young by my people. It isn't uncommon to wait for a few centuries of life before making a serious commitment."
"I see. This is fascinating the differences that exist because of the longer life spans," Harry said. "My people pair off very quickly as a result."
"Yes. I've noticed," Arya said. "Consider though that you will be very long lived because of Saphira. Possibly as long lived as elves. No Rider has ever lived that long. But that is only because of conflict."
Harry pondered that for a while. Of course he was already immortal because of his ability to physically reverse age. Arya didn't know that though.
It was the fourth day after they left the dwarven outpost that the group reached a small meadow between the river and the forest. Arya signaled the group to stop. Harry could sense the other elves beyond the tree line even though they were very well concealed.
In the ancient language Arya called out, "Come forth, my brethren! You have nothing to fear. Tis I, Arya of Ellesmera. My companions are friends and allies. They mean us no harm." Then she spoke very quickly in the ancient language giving out pass phrases using words that Harry hadn't yet learned yet."
A male elvish voice responded with more pass phrases. "I do," Arya called back.
Four male elves came out of the forest at different locations carrying white bladed long spears and long bows. Their clothes were moss colored tunics underneath long cloaks with ivory broaches. One male was dark haired while three were bright blonde. These males showed clear joy at seeing Arya laughing merrily as they danced around her. The elven laughter was musical. Saphira's arrival across the river beside Harry brought the laughter to an abrupt hault. Arya had to speak quickly to calm the other elves.
"Eka fricai un Shur'tugal," Harry said which translated to him being a rider and a friend. Touching his lips, he added, "Atra esterni ono thelduin."
This last bit pretty much meant he wouldn't lie during their conversation. The elves appeared happy as they bowed to Saphira and murmured their reply to Harry.
There was some laughter at the dwarves before the elves beckoned the group into the forest after them. The canopy caused a lot of darkness in the forest as the group walked. Eventually they were led to a fire surrounded by three huts. The elves began preparping a meal with fruits and vegetables. Harry took note of the platform high above in a great oak tree. From the platform the elves would be able to see the river and surrounding forest. During the conversation as the elves worked they were identified as Lifaen, Edurna, Celdin, and Nari.
As the elves worked on the meal Saphira noted, "I sense more magic in this race than humans or dwarves."
"I sense it too," Harry agreed.
It was considered rude to speak to a Rider's dragon mind-to-mind. It was rude to initiate the conversation that way. The elves verbally spoke to Saphira and she responded mind-to-mind which the elves seemed to love. The meal tasted great washed down with a flagon of gooseberry wine. Lifaen produced a set of reed pipes and began to play music while Nari sang.
"The magic in your voice was exhilarating and only complemented the words," Harry said when the song had ended.
"Thank you Argetlam," Nari said. "You must be skilled in magic to be able to sense what we put into our songs."
"I get by," Harry said modestly.
"It was very pretty Master Elf," Thorv added. "On another note, are we to accompany Eragon further?"
"No," Arya answered. "You may return home in the morning. We will make sure Eragon and Saphira safely complete their journey."
"Thank you," Thorv said. "Thank you for escorting me," Harry replied.
That night Arya went and spoke with the other elves out of earshot. Arya told them about the tale of how she was abducted, rescued by Eragon, and a summary of some of the events that had happened since.
When he woke the next morning Harry saw that Thorv and the other guards were already packed to go. Harry approached Thorv.
"Please convey my thanks to Undin," Harry said.
"I will do so Shadeslayer. Do you want me to take Snowfire back with me? The elves mean to travel up Eldor Lake in boats," Thorv said.
"Thank you for the offer. I will see to it that she comes with me," Harry said.
Thorv nodded and said his goodbyes. After the other dwarves left the elves took Harry and Orik to the Edda River where two white canoes carved with vine decorations waited.
"What of your horse Argetlam?" Nari asked.
"I have laid enchantments on her saddle. She will run alongside the water and will find me if we get separated," Harry said.
The elves outside of Arya seemed impressed with this. Nari and Orik were in the first canoe. Harry and Arya were in the second canoe with Lifaen. The other elves stayed behind.
"Tell no one of my presence," Arya told those staying behind. "I will send reinforcements once we reach Silthrim."
"Yes Arya Drottningu," Edurna answered.
Lifaen and Nari used long spiked poles to guide the canoes. It took an hour to reach Eldor Lake. The eastern shore of the lake was bordered by planes where hundreds of deer grazed. After they entered the lake leaf shaped paddles were distributed.
"I can see why your people live in the forest. It's beautiful in here," Harry said appreciatively. "Most humans fear it," Lifaen said. "Eragon is not most humans," Arya noted. "He would not be a rider if he were," Lifaen agreed.
"Nature is beautiful. This forest is full of nature and magic. I can practically taste the magic in the air," Harry mused.
"If you enjoy magic then I think you shall enjoy your time amongst us," Lifaen said.
Harry enjoyed his time floating down the river and talking to the two elves he shared the canoe with.