Disclaimer: I own nothing
A/N: Hmmm... Ok I admit it! I may have spent a little more time on this story line than just occasionally. I actually started it a month or two ago and just didn't decide to publish it until recently. I only posted one chapter because I wanted everyone's opinion on the story before I posted the rest. Soooo... I'll have the other chapters I've finished posted today as well.
Enjoy and lemme know what you think :-)
CHAPTER TWO: ANSWERS AND SWORDS
It is a shame that the sick one could not make it, Scáth said once they leveled out over the valley.
I agree, Harry responded solemnly. I guess the strain of everything was just too much for his system to handle.
So what do we do now? Scáth questioned as he glided lazily on the air currents in no particular direction.
This Brom person does not strike me as an enemy, Harry said slowly as he looked to the east and the rising sun. He loved sunrises and the way they danced colors across the sky. He strikes me as a generally kind person and he could answer a good deal of our questions.
How are we to get him to answer them without revealing that you are not from this land? It would not be wise to spread that around. Scáth said as he banked to circle back over the vale below them.
While I agree that we shouldn't spread that around, Harry said as he shifted the sack of meat to his front so he could hold onto it better. I fear that we will not be able to get our answers without telling at least one person.
Hmmm, Scáth said as he looked down to the village, his keen eyesight allowing him to see people's movements in the dim rays of morning light. He was silent for several minutes before he spoke again. I fear you are right and I see no other course. We cannot afford to remain ignorant. I may know some facts about this lands history but I have been detached from it for so many long years that the ancestral memories I possess have faded greatly because of it. They could not seek the magic in the land to fuel their existence like they should have. We must do as we must but I do not recommend giving him any details that involve your skills with magic or your previous life.
I have no intention of telling him anything more than the mere fact that I was not born in this land. Harry said reassuringly as he watched the sky brighten with hues of reds and pinks and yellows. Can you tell where he is?
Scáth surveyed the landscape far below them for a few minutes before answering. He is talking with the young Rider by the forest's edge. From what I can tell, the boy has it in his mind to go chasing after the old one's murderers.
You can tell that from all the way up here? Harry asked in wonder as he gazed at the dark landscape below him. His mental landscape was limited to probably a few miles or so in each direction and his eyesight was nowhere near a dragons so he couldn't see anything but an outline of the valley bellow him and given their height they were well out of range for him to mentally listen in on what was going on.
Only through their body language and a few other clues that I can see, Scáth explained as he flapped his wings to maintain their altitude. Do you wish to meet up with them? They are leaving the main body of town and headed towards the wreckage of what I presume to be the young Rider's home.
Yes, I think that would be a fine idea. Wait until they're actually at the farm before you land, Harry said after a moment's thought. They were silent for some time before Harry spoke up again. Do you know where Eragon's dragon is? I figured we would have encountered her up here in the sky.
She is gliding over the forest several miles below us to meet up with her Rider at the destroyed farm, Scáth explained as he altered his course to glide over the wreckage of the farm. We have not encountered her up here because she has not sensed us. She has sensed you through her Rider but since we are so much higher than she is, she cannot feel your presence for herself. The only reason she has not yet sensed my presence is because not only am I capable of shielding my mind from others but also the presence of my mind, which is how I avoided Brom's search for me so he could speak with me.
Well you're just full of tricks aren't you? Harry chuckled causing Scáth to rumble in embarrassment and pride.
The two of them glided silently in the air as they waited for Brom and Eragon to reach the farm. By the time they reached it, the sun had risen fully into the sky. With the better lighting Harry was able to pick out a little more detail of what was happening below him and Scáth. He couldn't make out any proper details but he could see that Eragon's dragon had landed at the farm and was greeting the two humans, who looked like tiny ants to Harry.
I don't think we should be left out of the introductions should we? Harry asked in a slightly teasing voice.
Amusement flowed back from Scáth as he angled into a steep dive. Joy rushed through Harry as he clung to Scáth's neck. There was no greater rush than plunging unbearably fast towards the earth when you knew that even though you had complete control over the situation, the tiniest thing could go wrong and your suddenly nothing more than a pancake in a crater. Scáth opened his wings slightly to slow their descent and level them out. When they were a few dozen feet from the ground, his wings snapped open fully and he back flapped a few times before touching down gracefully a few yards from the other dragon. She was actually quite stunning to look at. Her scales shone a brilliant sapphire blue and the bone white spikes that traveled the length of her body, similar to how Scáth's did, contrasted nicely with her deep blue scales. She was slightly smaller than Scáth was which indicated that she was younger than he was though it was unclear as to how much younger. However, since she seemed to have a more abundance of food for her to eat, she was filled out a little more than Scáth was.
When they landed, the female dragon spun towards the new arrivals and growled threateningly, baring her fangs. She crouched in preparation to attack but her eyes flickered in surprise and she stood there staring at them. Harry and Scáth both knew better than to make a move for fear of provoking the agitated dragon, so they waited patiently for her evaluation.
Finally, she said, Who are you?
We are allies, Scáth said clearly for all to hear. We mean no harm to either you or your Rider and we are here to speak with the bearded one.
I was unaware that any other dragons and Riders existed in Alagaësia, The dragon stated as she relaxed her stance slightly.
As far as we are aware, we are the only ones. Scáth said honestly.
"It is ok Saphira," Brom interjected then as he stepped around the blue dragon that was apparently named Saphira. "I met them earlier. They mean us no harm."
We shall see, she said warningly as she continued to examine the two new comers.
Brom seemed to smile slightly as he approached Harry and Scáth. Harry, seeing that movement would no longer set off Saphira, slid down to the snow covered ground so as to speak easier with the old man. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Eragon come out of the ruined house with an armful of items. The boy froze in shock at the sight of another dragon before him.
"Forgive me dragon, but I did not catch your name last we met," Brom greeted with a friendly smile.
That is because it was not given, Scáth declared after several minutes of staring critically at Brom with an eye that glinted like a black diamond. However, you may call me Scáth.
"You have an interesting name young dragon," Brom said with a contemplative look. "If you don't mind my asking, what does it mean?"
A name can mean a great many things, Scáth said evasively and refused to elaborate.
Brom seemed to understand this so he turned his attention to Harry and said, "I did not expect to see you for a while."
"Things were discussed and decisions were made," Harry answered the unspoken question of why he had returned so soon. He cast a few glances at Eragon, who had moved to stand beside Saphira. The two appeared to be discussing something intently. "But before either of us get the answers we seek, I want your word that you will not breathe a word of anything you learn from me to anyone else."
Brom stroked his beard as he thought for several long minutes. Only when Eragon began to fidget in nervous impatience did Brom speak once again. "Very well, you have my word, upon mine honor, that I shall not speak a word of our discussions to anyone without your approval."
"Thank you," Harry said with a pleased smile. "However, such discussions would be better left for less open venues."
"A valid point," Brom said clapping his hands suddenly and turning back towards Eragon and Saphira, gesturing for Harry to follow. "Come, we shall move to somewhere where we cannot be heard."
Harry and Scáth followed the old man as he followed Eragon, who led them into the forest by the house. Saphira had taken flight, presumably to follow them in the air. To ensure that they wouldn't be followed, Harry discretely obliterated their tracks, something he had gotten extremely good at over the past three months, until they had gone a ways into the tree line where there was less snow and less of a risk of being followed. As they walked, Harry eyed Eragon's back. There was a tension in the boy's muscles that Harry recognized all too well. It was the tension of loss mixed with an iron hard determination.
He wants blood, Scáth remarked as Eragon led them through a thicket of underbrush.
Something I can relate to, Harry responded as he detached his shirt from an annoying thorn. And not something I can blame him for either. To lose a family member in such a way is not something you can just shrug off.
I agree, Scáth said as he easily stepped over the prickly underbrush and into the quaint little clearing that was situated in the center. Saphira had landed already and had settled along the edge opposite them. She stared critically at Harry and Scáth when they entered the clearing. I think it would be wise to keep an eye on him though. His inexperience with reality has made it difficult for him to understand caution.
Hmm, Harry hummed in thought as he settled down next to Scáth's foreleg.
–Scene Break–
What do you make of them Saphira? Eragon asked within the confines of his mind as he sat next to Saphira and split his time between watching Brom start a fire and looking at the other Rider and his black dragon.
I… am unsure. Saphira said haltingly as she openly stared at the other dragon with a calculating look. I was only aware of Shruikan, the king's black dragon, existing besides myself. I know he has two other eggs but this dragon came from neither of them and I did not know of any other eggs in existence. His size suggests that he is older than I am by only a few months yet his leanness suggests that he has had to fight for food where as I have been able to hunt freely and abundantly.
Do you think they mean us harm? Eragon asked as he pulled a pot out of his pack and filled it with snow before putting it over the fire. He started preparing things for a stew.
Again, Saphira hesitated before answering. I do not believe so. If they were the king's agents then they would have pronounced such. Still, it would be wise to exercise caution around them.
"So," Brom said as he leaned against a sapling and lit his pipe while they waited for the stew to cook. "Perhaps you would like to tell us how long you and your dragon have been together Harry?"
That's an odd name, Eragon thought as he turned his gaze to the green-eyed boy with the messy hair. Saphira silently agreed but didn't comment.
Harry leveled a glare at Brom and was silent for a few moments before answering. "Roughly three months by my reckoning."
"Three months?" Brom questioned in surprise. "Where have you been hiding out all this time?" Harry's glare intensified but Brom didn't seem disturbed by it and waited for an answer, which was several minutes in coming as Harry thought about whether or not to answer.
"In an abandoned city on an island off shore," Harry said eventually and Brom promptly started choking on the puff of tobacco he had taken.
"You–" Brom tried to say through his coughing fit. "You were hiding on Vroengard! In Doru Araeba?"
Shock radiated from Saphira and she let out a soft growl. Eragon, who was sitting next to her, barely heard the growl but both Harry and the other dragon looked over to her as if she had let out a roar. They stared at her wearily for a few moments before turning their attention back to Brom.
"I am unaware of the island's or the city's name but they are only a few hours flight from here," Harry answered somewhat hesitantly.
"Do you have any idea how dangerous that island is?" Brom asked incredulously.
We lived there for three months old man, The black dragon said with narrowed eyes and an annoyed growl. We fought every day for whatever food we could manage to find. We were forced to defend ourselves against all manners of beasts just so we would live to see the light of a new day. We know the dangers of that island very intimately. The dragon punctuated his last word with a throaty growl.
Brom was silent as Eragon dished up soup for everyone. He was a little hesitant to approach the strange boy and his dragon but he didn't want to appear rude so he poured a bowl for Harry. He nodded when the boy thanked him and went back over to Saphira and dug into his own bowl.
Harry graciously downed the entire bowl of soup in silence. After living off nothing but scraps of bland and often dry meat from the few animals that were edible on the island, the soup tasted like it was made by the gods. Granted it was nothing compared to some of the things he had eaten at Hogwarts, nothing could compare to the food there, but it was, by far, much better than what he and Scáth had been eating. No one spoke while they ate but Harry quietly started conversing with Scáth half way through his soup.
If you're hungry you can have the rest of our rations we brought from the island, Harry said as swallowed a mouthful. I don't think we'll have to scrounge for food anymore.
Hmmm, Scáth said as he sniffed at their sac of food. The sac itself appeared to be rather large since it was actually Harry's blanket that he had made from the skins of various animals but the contents were few. There was enough for one good and solid meal for a human but wasn't more than a mouthful for a dragon. Are you certain? I do not wish you to starve just to ease my own hunger that isn't that unbearable yet.
If a village can thrive in this land then so can we, Harry reasoned as he untied the sac allowing it to fall open and reveal their meager rations of food. If it comes down to it and we run out of food, you and I can always go hunt together. Now eat.
Very well, Scáth said as he snatched up several chunks of meat.
"Scáth," Brom finally said when they had all finished eating. Saphira was the only one that hadn't eaten but Harry assumed she had hunted recently and didn't need any food at the moment. "You and Harry both have my apologies. I did not mean to insult either of you. I was simply shocked that you both managed to survive three months on your own on such a dangerous island."
You are forgiven, Scáth said as he wrapped himself around Harry, laying his head just right so his nose was against Harry's side. For now, he added warningly. For some reason that only made the old man smile.
"That's an awful lot of leather," Harry remarked when he saw Eragon unrolling three large hides. "What do you plan on doing with it?"
Eragon eyed him suspiciously for a few moments before answering. "A saddle for Saphira."
"A daunting task," Brom said as he once again lit his pipe. "There were two kinds of saddles for dragons. One was a thick and hard mold but those took time and tools, neither of which we have. The second was thin and lightly padded; nothing but an extra layer between the Rider and dragon."
"Do you know what they looked like?"
"Better, I can make one."
"Then by all means, please do,"
Harry sat against Scáth's warm side and watched silently as Brom constructed a saddle from the leather hides. It was actually quite interesting to watch but Harry's eyes were quickly growing heavy. He had been up since sunrise the previous day and he was quickly growing tired.
Rest little one, Scáth told him, giving Harry's side a small nudge. I do not need sleep just yet. I will make sure they do not harm you.
And who will make sure they do not harm you? Harry questioned, even as he pulled over his fur blanket.
I do not believe they will intentionally harm either of us but if they show signs of attacking, I will wake you. Scáth said as Harry made himself comfortable against his side, already half asleep.
The day whittled by peacefully and silently for all five of them. Brom worked diligently on Saphira's saddle and Eragon divided his time between repairing his pack and organizing their supplies and watching Brom work. During this time, Saphira continued to stare endlessly at Scáth and Harry, trying to determine whether or not they were dangerous. Scáth had noticed her staring but didn't begrudge her for it since he knew some of what she was thinking. He knew because, like her, his ancestral memories, faint as they were, had led him to believe that they were the last sane individuals of their race. Neither of them had expected to encounter another dragon that wouldn't be an enemy. Therefore, it was only natural that Saphira would be curious as well as leery. After all, Scáth himself was just as curious and just as apprehensive of Saphira as she was of him, though he wasn't as obvious about it.
Eragon and Brom broke briefly for lunch but otherwise didn't stop in their tasks. Neither of them bothered to wake Harry for lunch since when Brom had approached to do so, Scáth had bared his teeth in silent warning. From then on neither of them bothered to approach the protective dragon and his Rider. Harry ended up sleeping through the entire day and it wasn't until Eragon had started fixing dinner that he stirred. The smells of food cooking over a fire wafted into Harry's nose and roused him from his light sleep.
"Evening," Brom said when he noticed that Harry had opened his eyes. "I was expecting you to sleep through the night."
"I likely would have," Harry said as he rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. "Being up for over twenty four hours has a tendency to make one tired."
"Any particular reason you were up for so long?" Brom asked as he dished up the food and handed a plate to both Eragon and Harry.
"We did not take the time to rest before we left the island, Vroengard as you called it." Harry explained as he graciously accepted the plate and started eating.
"That's all well and good but why are you hear?" Eragon asked bluntly. "And how do you not know what Vroengard is?"
What is so amusing? Scáth asked when he felt great amusement coming across their bond, though Harry outwardly didn't show any signs.
He reminds me of someone I used to know, Harry explained with a smirk. She was almost constantly asking questions and had no sense of tact when asking them.
"As for why I am here," Harry said turning his attention outward again to see both Eragon and Brom looking at him. "I came to speak with him," Harry gestured at Brom. "As for why I don't know what Vroengard is… I will keep that to myself for the time being."
"Do you plan on travelling with us?" Brom asked ignoring the irritated look he received from Eragon.
"That depends on where and why you're travelling," Harry answered after a moment's thought. "I've no wish to intrude upon anything. I merely wish to speak privately. However, it would be nice for some company so I wouldn't mind travelling with you. But again I don't wish to intrude upon anything."
"Well since this is Eragon's quest I think we'll leave the decision to him," Brom said, turning to look at said boy, who looked really irritated now.
Could he be any more irritating? Eragon thought irritably to himself.
Likely, Saphira answered, startling Eragon slightly since he hadn't been expecting an answer. I see no reason not to allow them to come with us though. It will allow us to keep an eye on them and if they truly are on our side then they could help us should we need it.
This doesn't involve them! Eragon countered stubbornly. The only reason I'm allowing Brom is because he has knowledge that we need.
Eragon, Saphira said firmly as she lowered her head to stare at him with one big blue eye. Your safety is everything to me. I would not suggest something like this lightly. They have survived three months on Vroengard, a place riddled with dangerous and magical beasts and magic that is even more dangerous. As a result of that, they could become formidable allies. Furthermore, if they were the king's agents and he knew of us already, then they would not simply be sitting here. They would be attempting to take us to the king. And if those reasons don't convince you then think on this, they could help us track down and kill those strangers.
I don't need any help, Eragon said petulantly.
Eragon–
"Fine," Eragon said allowed, cutting off Saphira's disapproval. "Fine, if you so wish you may come with us."
"Thank you for the invitation but whether or not I do depends on the conversation between me and Brom," Harry said with a nod of his head as he set his empty plate aside.
"Right," Eragon grumbled as he rolled out his blankets and promptly went to sleep.
"Do not mind him," Brom said quietly as he moved closer to Harry and Scáth. "He is very upset over the loss of his uncle."
"I do not blame him for anything," Harry said as he eyed the boy's sleeping form for a few minutes before turning his attention to Brom, who was tamping down tobacco into his pipe and lighting it.
"So what is it that you wish to speak about?" Brom asked around his pipe.
Harry paused for a few moments under the guise of collecting his thoughts but was actually casting a privacy spell around them so they wouldn't be eavesdropped on. "You want answers and I want answers," He said once the spells were in place. "Are we agreed that if I give you answers then you will give me answers?"
"As long as they are answers I can provide then yes I will give you the answers you seek," Brom said after blowing a few smoke rings. Harry watched as the rings changed colors and darted around. He quirked an eyebrow at the implications but wasn't really surprised. Scáth had said he sensed a diminished power within the aged man.
"Then the first thing you should know about me is that I am not from this land," Harry stated bluntly. "I washed ashore on the island you called Vroengard three and a half months ago. I know nothing of this land, its politics, its inhabitants, or its history." Harry could not help the smirk that played across his face as Brom's face morphed into one of complete and utter shock. His eyes bulged comically and his mouth dropped open allowing his pipe to fall out of his mouth.
I always did enjoy catching people off guard, Harry thought with a chuckle.
I can see why if this is how people always reacted, Scáth said with a deep rumbling chuckle that sounded like giant slabs of stone clacking together.
"You…" Brom finally managed to locate his voice, though it was rough and low and laced with astonishment. "You came here from across the sea?"
"In a manner of speaking yes," Harry said ambiguously.
What is it? Scáth asked, sensing the thoughts and doubts whirling within Harry's mind.
I'm just beginning to doubt if this land is even a part of my world or part of a different world. Harry answered since Brom was still trying to wrap his mind around what Harry had said. I know my world very well, Harry showed Scáth several images. A revolving globe filled with ocean's and land. There were giant continents that teemed with the life of millions of human beings. Harry showed Scáth images of his world, which was separate from the rest but was still part of the same planet. He showed him images of dragons he had encountered along with other magical creatures. My world is very large and very complex and I may not know everything about it but I have never seen or heard of a land called Alagaësia with strong, powerful, intelligent, and wise dragons. With strange creatures called Urgals. I have no problem being here, I ran away after all, but this is not the world I came from and it confuses me as to how I could have come here.
"So," Brom said pulling their attention back to him. "Since you do not hail from this land, I take it you wish me to explain where you are and what you have gotten yourself involved in."
"It would be greatly appreciated," Harry said with a nod.
"Then before I begin, why don't you explain how you came across Scáth's egg?" Brom said as he picked up his pipe, tapped it clean of tobacco, and refilled it.
"I woke up on a beach," Harry detailed as he plucked a piece of grass from the ground and fiddled with it. The tree branches that hung over the small glade had protected it from the massive snowfall of winter. "When I woke up I encountered a blue-skinned creature I later learned was called an Urgal. I managed to stun the creature momentarily and gave myself enough time to run for it since my instincts said the creature wasn't friendly. I ran into the forest and kept running until I came across an abandoned city. Seeking shelter I fled into the castle that was there and sought a room high and deep in the structure where I could rest safely." Harry paused briefly to watch the dancing smoke rings that Brom was blowing once again. "I managed to find one and settled into a light and fitful rest. A few hours later, I was woken by a strange scratching sound. I cautiously searched the room and found a hidden panel in one of the walls. Inside was Scáth's egg. Seconds later, he hatched. You can deduce the rest from there."
"Hmmm," Brom hummed around his pipe as lines creased his forehead in a frown. "I was unaware that an egg had been hidden from the rest or that there had been a fourth egg at all. Usually only three are given." He was quiet for a few more minutes before speaking again. "Do you remember anything from before you were confined within this hidden alcove?"
Very little, Scáth answered. I remember that the one who hid me had been frantic and used many spells to ensure I was not discovered by the betrayer.
"I see," Brom nodded, deep in thought. "Is there a reason you have not given your Rider the necessary information about this land?"
The spells that the one who hid me had an unforeseen side effect, Scáth answered as he lifted his head to stare at the stars. They concealed me completely. The ancient memories we dragons possess feed off the land and its magic in order for them to exist. The spells that were intended to conceal me and protect me did just that but they ended up concealing me so completely that I became separate from the land. As creatures of this land, we dragons are an integral part of it but if we are held separate from it then we become separate. Scáth sighed heavily and lowered his head to rest next to Harry. As a result of this, my ancient memories have dwindled to all but nothing. I have broken images that are incomplete and almost no information to go with them. I am no more knowledgeable of this land than Harry is. The few scattered images I can recall are nothing but flashes of ancient wars or of binding oaths. My instincts tell me some things but I lack any real depth of knowledge towards them.
I'm sorry, Harry said as he wrapped an arm around Scáth's neck. The dragon hummed in response.
"You have my deepest sympathies Scáth," Brom said sadly and with a bitter tone in his voice. "Galbatorix, the betrayer you mentioned, should suffer for an eternity for the pain he has wrought." Brom rubbed his forehead before tapping his pipe on a stone to empty the ashes and refilled it. "Your existence here, along with Saphira's, is a great blessing. Many have waited a long time and fought many dangerous battles in the hopes that the Riders would be resurrected; and now they have been rewarded with not only one Rider but two. However, both you two and Eragon and Saphira are in great danger, you two more so since Scáth's memories have dwindled as they have. It leaves you at a great disadvantage."
"Will you help us?" Harry asked hopefully.
"Aye, I will help you," Brom said after taking a long draught on his pipe. "But for now we need to rest. Eragon will likely want to leave in the morning to hunt down the Ra'zac, the ones who killed his uncle." Brom stood up and brushed off his robes. "I will train you alongside Eragon. Unfortunately, it would be unwise for you to be seen leaving the town or valley. You will have to fly with Scáth during the day and I will attempt to limit my instructions for night when you can camp with us."
"Thank you," Harry and Scáth said in unison. Brom nodded and went over to his pack, unfurled some blankets and settled in for the night and Harry did the same.
We may not know what we have gotten ourselves into but at least someone is willing to guide and help us. Harry remarked as he settled against Scáth's side and dropped the privacy spells. All Scáth did was hum and drop a wing over both of them.
The next morning the five of them woke at sunrise. After a quick breakfast, Harry and Scáth took to the air and were soon joined by Saphira. Neither dragon could carry more than one person right now given their young age and Eragon's legs still needed to heal from his first flight so he and Brom would be walking out of small village that Harry learned to be named Carvahall on foot. Harry, Scáth, and Saphira would fly ahead and wait for them in a safe and secluded area. Given that the two on the ground were on foot this would mean that there would be plenty of time for meandering. Scáth glided lazily through the air, going wherever the currents went, though never too far from the valley. They were high enough in the sky so that anyone viewing them would think they were nothing more than birds. Saphira would always follow wherever they went, constantly keeping watch on them.
Care to have some fun? Scáth inquired after a few hours of gliding and enjoying the massive view they had been gifted.
I'm always one for fun, Harry declared as if it should have been obvious.
Then I suggest you make yourself secure. Scáth replied and then waited for Harry to secure himself.
Ok, Harry said after discretely (he was being watched after all) casting some spells over his legs to make them stick to Scáth's neck.
Scáth suddenly folded his left wing and they started plummeting towards the earth at an angle. Conscious of the need not to be seen, Scáth didn't drop for more than a few hundred feet before he snapped open his wing and spiraled back up into the air. Scáth held suspended in the air for a moment before he gave two powerful flaps of his wings and performed a spiraling backward loop. Harry started whooping with laughter as Scáth started performing other such complicated maneuvers, maneuvers he had once performed himself. It had been far too long since Harry had enjoyed himself in this manner. He quickly became grateful for the sticking charms he had cast on his legs because he was certain that he would have been flown off.
The two of them flew like that for hours. All worldly cares melted away as if swept aside by the rushing wind. Saphira continued to watch them but they hardly noticed. They were only aware of each other. At some point the two had unconsciously deepened their bond, widened it until neither of them could tell who was doing what and they were more one being rather than two. Harry felt as if it were his wings that glided through the air and Scáth felt as if it were his mouth that was open in gleeful laughter. They were one with the sky and each other. It was an exhilarating experience that neither of them had before but that both reveled in.
Unfortunately, it couldn't last forever and they both had to descend towards the earth when the sun started setting, slowly disentangling their minds from each other as they did so but not fully closing the connection. They took a few moments to search the valley for Brom, Eragon, and Saphira, who had landed while they were still enjoying themselves. When they landed, they saw Brom and Eragon sparring with mock swords. Harry quickly cancelled the sticking charms and slid down Scáth's front leg.
You are a talented flyer black one, Harry heard Saphira say directly to Scáth. Where did you learn such moves?
Many dangers exist on Vroengard, Scáth explained with a mighty yawn as he made himself comfortable. Several of which can fly. I learned quickly to out maneuver them so as to gain the advantage. To Harry he added privately, I will need to hunt tomorrow, will you be all right on your own as you travel with the other two.
I can conceal myself well enough so no one will see me travelling with them, Harry assured as he watched Brom strike Eragon in rapid succession. Not even they will be able to see me.
Good, Scáth declared sleepily as he laid his head down on the ground and started to doze.
A startled yelp from the sparing pair drew Harry's gaze. He saw that Eragon had dropped his wooden sword and was rubbing his upper arm. His skin was glistening in the fire light with sweat. Several welts covered his arms and a few bruises were starting to form. Brom dismissed him and Eragon went over to flop down onto his blankets and Saphira started emitting a coughing growl that Harry recognized as laughter. His suspicions were confirmed when he saw Eragon blush.
"Your turn," Brom said tossing Eragon's discarded stick at Harry, who caught out of reflex.
"Very well," Harry said as he stood up.
Absently he noted that the aged man didn't look the least bit weary from his spar with Eragon. This piqued his curiosity but he didn't comment on it. He stood their silently with the mock sword in his right hand, waiting for Brom to make the first move. He didn't have to wait long. Brom lunged forward, intending to strike at Harry's upper left arm. To everyone's surprise, except Scáth who was sound asleep, the sound of wood echoed throughout the campsite followed by surprisingly quick movement on Harry's part and a surprised yelp from the old man.
"You have experience with the sword?" Brom asked in shock as he rubbed his thigh and turned to face where Harry had darted away.
"No," Harry said with a slight grin. "But I have experience with other things that can be transferred into this arena. Not to mention I am very apt at avoiding physical blows."
"I see," Brom said with determination. "I will not under estimate you again so let us see how well you hold up against a master swordsman."
Harry grinned and sidestepped Brom's attempt to strike Harry in the thigh as payback. He brought up the mock stick to block the old man's sudden twist. Harry was great at predicting how his opponent would move, even without reading their minds, which he couldn't do with Brom. However, he didn't see Brom move to swipe his leg at Harry's legs until it was too late and he was forced to one knee. Unperturbed, Harry went with the motion and rolled away and got back to his feet in a matter of seconds. Brom was quick though and he was already on top of Harry, forcing the dark haired boy into a frenzied defense.
After a few minutes of constantly defending himself and receiving several welts of his own in the process, Harry changed tact and went on the offensive. He parried one of Brom's blows, spun into the old man's guard, elbowed him in the chest and then spun out again, whacking Brom in the arm.
"You are a natural fighter," Brom praised bringing the sparring session to a halt.
"No," Harry denied as he settled next to the fire. "Just determined to stay alive." Brom barked a laugh at that as Harry helped himself to the food that was left over from the others dinner. "Scáth needs to hunt tomorrow so I will accompany the two of you on foot if that is alright."
"Hmmm…" Brom frowned in thought for a few moments as he stared into the fire. "I think that would be fine. We are near Therinsford and should reach it tomorrow. There we will purchase horses for the three of us and from then we can ride from the valley much swifter and easier. I still think it would be unwise for anyone to see you. The scar on your forehead is unique and makes you easily identifiable and if the wrong person were to see you it could prove troublesome."
"I've grown very apt at remaining unobtrusive, even with the blasted scar," Harry said with a bitter tone to his voice. "I assure you, no one will look twice at me."
"Very well then," Brom said as he took out his pipe.
Everyone was silent for a while but once Eragon and Saphira went to sleep, Brom started giving Harry a history lesson about Alagaësia. It was a vague history, nothing more than a basic outline that any native inhabitant of the land would know simply by growing up there. Harry suspected that the man knew far more than he let on but Harry didn't press for the time being, grateful for having any background at all. He listened raptly to the things Brom told him about, such as the Riders and their downfall and other various trivia about the land. Essentially, Brom told him everything that Harry needed to know in order to know how he should act and behave so no one would suspect that he was from a different land.
"Are there others besides yourself in Alagaësia that can use magic?" Harry asked as they settled in for the night. He noticed how Brom stiffened and froze slightly before continuing his preparations for rest.
"What makes you think I know magic?" Brom asked evasively.
"Smoke rings to do not change color and prance about out of their own free will," Harry replied as he laid against Scáth's side and covered himself with his blanket.
"Maybe they do in this land," Brom countered.
"Yeah, and I'm an octopus with ten tentacles, six eyes, and a pair of antlers," Harry replied sarcastically as he reflexively surveyed the surrounding area with his mind before drifting off to sleep. Out of habit from living in a dangerous environment, Harry left his mind open to his surroundings and remained half-aware of the minds of insects and animals going about their routines.
When the sun breached the horizon the next morning the five travelers woke and, after a quick breakfast, set out on the road. Scáth and Saphira took flight. Scáth went to hunt in The Spine while Saphira merely glided high in the sky above them, looking no more than a bird. The three of them walked swiftly in silence and by noon Therinsford was in sight. Brom instructed Eragon to have Saphira wait for them on the other side of the town, to which he obliged after challenging the man to do it himself and glaring darkly at him when he declared it in appropriate to interfere with someone's dragon. His exact wording had been, "It's considered bad manners to interfere with another's dragon." Though it didn't show, Harry found Brom's use of the word 'another's' to be very interesting. Harry had learned long ago to pay attention to not only how a person spoke but also what words they chose to use as it often revealed things they otherwise wouldn't have said outright. In this instance, Brom's use of the word 'another' instead of 'someone's' or 'a Rider's' implied that Brom may very well have been a Rider once upon a time. It would explain the diminished power Scáth had sensed the other day.
"Very cleaver of you Brom," Harry remarked with a chuckle when they were out of earshot of the man on the bridge who demanded payment in order for them to cross.
"What're you talking about?" Eragon asked in confusion. "He just lost five crowns when he could've easily just brushed past the man."
"Did you now?" Harry asked with a smirk and a raised eyebrow at Brom.
"One cannot argue with every fool in the world," Brom answered with an approving glint in his eyes as he revealed the handful of coins he had stolen from the man's purse when he had 'accidentally' stumbled into the bridge keeper. "Better to trick them when they're not looking." Eragon stared incredulously at Brom's sneakiness. "Here," Brom said to Harry, handing him a handful of coins. "Go and purchase yourself some new clothing. Your own are getting ragged and they make you stand out. Meet us on the other side of the town when you're down."
"Thank you," Harry said before trotting off towards the main body of town, casting subtle charms on himself as he went so he would remain unnoticed. He wasn't invisible; people would just find themselves not wanting to look in his direction.
It took Harry a few minutes to locate a store where he could purchase clothing. Once he did, he found clothing that he liked and that were his size. They were plain, yet attractive at the same time. He got two pairs of leather trousers, one black and one dark brown. Then he got an assortment of shirts that varied from deep green to black. He chose such colors so he didn't stand out, either on the ground or in the sky on Scáth. When he purchased everything he wanted, he counted the coins he had left over and located a cobbler so he could get new shoes. His tennis shoes were not only in great disrepair but also stood out a great deal. Thankfully, he had enough coins for new shoes.
When he had everything he needed, Harry made his way south and out of town. Ever since he discovered that Eragon and Brom were capable of detecting his mental presence, Harry had refrained from touching their minds, not that it mattered with Brom as he could shield his mind, but he could still sense their whereabouts. Through the mind of the person nearest them, Harry was able to tell that they were still in the process of purchasing horses, so he made his way out of town. He could sense Saphira's mind circling over head, watching both Eragon and himself. She was out of range of his mental landscape, though he could reach her if he focused enough, but he could still sense her mighty presence watching.
Once he made it out of town, Harry stepped off the main trail and into the trees. There, he quickly disrobed and donned his new clothing. He was about to return to the trail when something occurred to him. He needed a way to defend himself without using magic. From what Brom had told him and from what Harry had deduced on his own, magic and magic users were scarce in this land. If he started using it at every turn and for every little thing then he would become an even bigger target than he already was. This left him in a bit of a quandary. He could simply conjure a weapon, a sword likely given the type of world he was in now, but conjured items were not as sturdy as something made by hand and they had a tendency to fade after a while. Then there was his shortage of money, not to mention he didn't see a blacksmith in the town.
It seems that one way or another I end up in strange and life threatening situations without a proper means of defense, Harry thought to himself irritably.
I am sorry for your past troubles little one, Scáth said, startling Harry slightly since he hadn't expected a response since Scáth was still off hunting. Through their link, Harry saw that he was munching on a bloody haunch in the middle of a secluded glade. However, you are not alone anymore and I will personally tear apart anything that so much as scratches you.
Harry chuckled with a fond smile. Thank you my dear friend.
It is my pleasure, Scáth said happily. Is there not a way for you to create a weapon out of magic? Not just make one appear but actually make it.
Such a thing would take far too long… Harry's voice trailed off as a memory popped into his head. However, I might know of a ritual that would work.
Is it safe? Scáth questioned. I know little of the magic you were raised with and I do not want you to get hurt.
It would be fine so long as it's done properly, Harry said as he concentrated on his memory and went over the ritual. It would require a little more time than I have right now since Eragon is almost here with the horses. I also think it would be best if you were here with me. I will do it tonight after they have gone to sleep.
Very well, Scáth said and Harry saw him tear a strip out of the hide he was eating. I shall meet you when you three stop for the night.
Enjoy your meal my shadow, Harry said as he walked back to the trail. He was just in time to meet Eragon as he walked past the main border of Therinsford with three horses that were saddled and ready for travel. One of the horses was a beautiful white stallion and the other two were bays with one being darker than the other one and with a white marking on its forehead.
"I always liked horses," Harry remarked with a smile as he approached the nearest one, which happened to be the darker one. "Does it matter whose is whose?"
"I think Brom is taking Snowfire," Eragon said after a moment of thought and watching the way Harry and the roan interacted. "I was planning on taking the lighter bay."
Harry nodded in acknowledgement as he stroked the bay on the nose before going over to the saddlebags and placed his clothing inside. "Where is Brom anyways?" He asked as he mounted the bay and noticed that Brom wasn't with Eragon.
Eragon snorted derisively before answering. "In a tavern for all I know. The man has more secrets than a tree has leaves."
"I could say the same about you with questions," Brom said with a chuckle from behind them.
"Perhaps I wouldn't have so many questions if you didn't have so many secrets," Eragon grumbled as they followed Brom farther down the trail.
"Secrets are the way of the world," Harry said wisely but with bitter resignation in his voice. "If everyone knew everything about everything then there would be no point in living life. Secrets and Mysteries are what drive us to live." Brom and Eragon looked at Harry in surprise and annoyed confusion respectively.
"Wise words for one of your age," Brom remarked as he eyed the wild haired youth with a critical eye.
"Years mean nothing," Harry declared with a sad and dark look on his face as he shifted in his saddle. "The only thing that does, are our experiences."
Before either of them could muster a response, Harry spurred his horse into a faster walk so he ended up a ways a head of Brom and Eragon, who were still on foot, effectively ending any further conversation. He paused only briefly when Brom and Eragon halted their progress to mount their horses and confer about what Brom had discovered about the Ra'zac passing through Therinsford but he didn't comment on anything. He just sat stoically on his horse and waited for the others to resume walking. When they finally resumed movement there wasn't much talking since Eragon and Brom had no desire to further upset the tetchy youth.
As the hours wore on though everyone became more relaxed and light conversation was resumed, though Harry didn't participate. He did, however, listen closely when Brom explained to Eragon what the tower high up on the mountains side was as it revealed a little bit more about the history of the land. Not much was said beyond that and the three of them travelled in peaceful silence. It wasn't until the sun was low on the horizon when the three of them crested a rise in the path that signaled the mouth of the valley they were leaving. Beyond it stretched a seemingly endless plain that was growing darker in the fading sun light. Harry heard Eragon gasp in wonder and he had to wonder if the boy had as much as left Carvahall before. Given the boy's reactions he seriously doubted it. After a few moments of enjoying the view, Brom led them off the trail and towards the river where they made camp and Saphira and Scáth joined them.
Dinner was made and eaten in silence and afterward Brom and Eragon dueled extensively while Harry watched. Brom was slightly more reserved in his dueling with Eragon than he had been with Harry but not by much. As a result the aged man pushed Eragon to his limits, only pausing to demonstrate to the boy how to execute a certain maneuver. Harry was actually able to learn quite a bit simply by watching the pair, even though the session didn't last all that long. When they were finished, Brom sparred with Harry for a while before they broke it off for rest, both of them supporting bruises.
Harry lay on his back next to Scáth with his eyes closed, feigning sleep as was Scáth. They waited what seemed like forever just to ensure everyone else was asleep. Finally, when the half moon was high in the sky, Harry snapped his eyes open like wild cat. He listened intently for several minutes but only heard the deep breaths of his three companions. As silent as a wisp of pollen on a summer breeze, Harry stood up and left the campsite with Scáth moving surprisingly silent beside him, his size beguiling his stealth. The two of them walked quite a ways away from the campsite so the others wouldn't be disturbed by what Harry was going to do.
So what is this ritual that you are going to perform? Scáth asked when Harry had located a suitable spot underneath the pines.
From what I read, Harry said as he pulled out his wand and cleared the forest floor of pine needles after lighting the tip and began to carve strange markings on the forest floor. Strange to Scáth anyways, to Harry they were familiar runes from his world. It is a rarely used ritual. It is supposed to be a cross between summoning and conjuring. The ritual is rarely used for a couple of reasons, the first of which is that it takes a fair amount of skill, power, and concentration to perform. The second reason is that it wasn't entirely necessary for most wizards and witches since they had money and could simply purchase what they wanted.
And you will use this to bring forth a sword? Scáth asked as he curiously watched what Harry was doing and comparing it to the memories he had seen from Harry.
Aye, Harry answered as he meticulously perfected another rune. I believe that with your help I will be able to do it.
How can I help? Scáth questioned in disbelief. I know nothing of this.
In a couple of ways actually, Harry answered easily. Firstly, you have seen my memories of the runes I am carving and it would be appreciated if you helped me double check my work. Secondly, I was hoping that you would be willing to lend me some strength if I needed it. At this he looked at Scáth hopefully.
Oh very well, Scáth said after a few minutes of trying to fight Harry's puppy dog look, not that he would've said no either way.
Harry beamed happily and went back to work. It took Harry the better part of two and a half hours to properly carve the runes with Scáth interjecting occasionally when he saw Harry making a mistake. He had to carve a good sized circle of runes and then etch a likeness of what he wanted inside the circle, also with runes. The likeness didn't need to be perfect but the more detail one put into it the more likely the ritual was to succeed. It was a long process but eventually he finished with all the runes properly carved. His end result was a circle about a foot wide with a likeness of a sword in the center with its pummel and tip touching the edges of the circle.
Are you ready? Harry asked as he took a few steps back from the circle.
Are you? Scáth countered.
"As I'll ever be," Harry said a loud. "Here goes: Per ignem et lapideum quod cupio parere," He chanted, keeping his wand pointed at the carving.
At first, nothing happened but then a spark of fire suddenly leapt from the end of Harry's wand and landed on the circle's edge. Very slowly the fire spread around the circle of runes and then to the carving of the sword. The fire started out low and calm but when the entire carving Harry had made was ablaze the flames grew in intensity. They grew until they were over a foot off the ground. They flickered and danced in the night but quickly became a solid and stable force, as if they consuming the entire forest. Harry kept a steady image in his mind of what he wanted and poured more energy into the spell, gladdened when Scáth lent him strength. The flames flared suddenly, took on a black tinge and went high enough to touch the branches, though didn't burn them. A slight shockwave pulsed from the carving and the flames but didn't travel very far.
The pillar of fire before them began to churn and rotate. It started slowly but it quickly gained speed and it wasn't long before it looked like a fiery tornado. Even as the pillar churned it began to shrink in size. When it was halfway between the branches and the earth the fire's speed started to lessen. After it shrank a few more inches, Harry's eyes caught something glistening from the top edges of the flames. At first he couldn't quite make out what he was seeing but as the fire shrank Harry recognized the shape of a swords pummel; then a handle; then the cross guard. Eventually the entire blade was revealed, looking to be a total of four feet from end to end and was complete with a sheath and a thick belt so he could strap it to his waist. When the last of the flames finally died, Harry lowered his wand gently. The sword remained floating in the air, rotating ever so slightly.
I've never seen such a beautiful yet deadly looking sword, Harry remarked as he reached out and gently took hold of the sword in both hands.
Nor I, Scáth replied as he examined the blade with a critical eye.
The sheath was solid black with the exception of a white lightning bolt etched into one side near the top. Harry shook his head at that but ignored the implications. The handle and cross guard were simple and crafted from silver metal with a large black diamond set into the pummel. The handle fit perfectly in Harry's hand as if it had been sculpted solely for his use. Slowly, Harry pulled the blade free of its sheath. The sword was as silent as death as it slipped free to reveal an impossibly beautiful blade. Like the scabbard, the bulk of the blade was black but running down the center of both sides was a streak white, like a stretched out lightning bolt. Harry swung the blade experimentally. The sword was perfectly balanced but it was much lighter than he had expected, yet he knew that it would easily slice through the thickest of skulls.
I sense that we did more than just summon you a weapon, Scáth said as he sniffed the sword before Harry returned it to its sheath. It radiates a great power. I suggest you guard it well.
"Magic can be quite unpredictable can't it?" Harry asked aloud as he strapped the sword around his waist.
"Indeed it can."