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
HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP
Chapter 7
When Harry woke the next morning, he sensed a magical presence nearby. He looked to the cave's mouth and found a large cat staring at him. Eragon's memories of the cat came to him.
"Solembum," Harry greeted the werecat.
"Rider," Solembum replied mentally. "You should follow."
Solembum turned and leapt twenty feet down to the surface of Isidar Mithrim. Saphira had awoken at the mental conversation.
"It seems we have some familiar faces here," Saphira said.
"It seems we do," Harry said as he rose.
He left the cave and climbed down to the surface. He followed the cat out of the dragonhold. Harry idly noted the architecture inside the central chamber of Tronjheim beneath the surface of the star sapphire. But he was too focused on keeping up with the werecat to do more than briefly notice things. He followed the cat to a room on the level below the dragonhold. The cat got himself let in to a door on a particular room. When Harry approached the door opened again. The two room suite Harry entered was decorated with many plants and bright lanterns. Sitting on a plush leather chair was the fortuneteller and witch Angela. Eragon had met her before on his travels.
"Angela," Harry greeted warmly.
"Hello Rider," Angela replied with a grin. "I suspected you were a Rider when we met. But I didn't know for certain until yesterday. Solembum probably knew. When you mentioned Brom that was what tipped me off."
"Brom is dead by the Ra'zac," Harry said.
"I'm sorry to hear that. When I spoke of a death to you in Teirm I did not know it was him. We didn't always see eye to eye the few times we met. He didn't like my attitude towards magic, called it frivolous," Angela explained.
"Everyone has their different viewpoints on life. In Teirm you said that his fate was something of a joke. Why was that?" Harry questioned.
"Brom was under a curse of sorts by fate. His wyrd was to fail at all tasks except one," Angela explained. "This was through no fault of his own. He was chosen as a Rider. But his dragon was killed. He loved a woman. But his affection was her undoing. He was chosen to guard and train you. But in the end he failed at that as well. His only success was killing Morzan. But that was a very good deed indeed."
Harry was tempted to tell Angela that Brom had also fathered the Rider that would hopefully see the fall of Galbatorix.
"Thank you for explaining that," Harry settled upon saying. "What brings you to Tronjheim from Teirm?"
"I've been around much longer than you believe. Very little escapes my notice," Angela said. "I realized when people started whispering that the Varden's egg must have hatched. I've been here about a month. I don't care for it all that much. It's musty and everyone is so serious. The dwarves are a bunch of superstitious ninnies. They are content to spend their lives hammering rocks. It does have a redeeming quality though. The mushrooms and fungi that grow here are so useful. Tell me, what adventures have you experienced since we last spoke?"
Harry told her a summary of events leaving much out.
"You have had quite a few adventures," Angela said. "I hate shades. They practice such unholy magic second only to necromancy."
"Perhaps Brom's explanation wasn't as complete as I would like. As I understand it sorcerers like Shades control spirits. What makes them so unholy?" Harry questioned.
"That is true. But sorcerers summon spirits and tap into their powers. Shades let the spirits control them. The possession is usually permanent. And only evil spirits seek to possess humans. This makes for very strong nasty creatures. It can happen by accident if a sorcerer summons a spirit stronger than them. It can also be intentional. Only two beings in all of history have survived slaying a shade, Laetri the Elf and Irnstad the Rider," Angela explained.
"Thank you for clarifying that," Harry said. "Why are you living so high up on Tronjehim?"
"It was the only way I could get any peace from the magic users here. Once they found out who I was the magic uses of that little guild wouldn't stop pestering me to join their little group," Angela explained. "I'm afraid my brew of mandrake root and newts tongue needs my attention. Please come back again when you have the time."
"Of course," Harry said. "It was interesting seeing you Angela."
Harry left. When he got back to the dragonhold, Saphira was waiting for him ready to go.
"A dwarf stopped by to let us know it was time to meet Orik," Saphira informed him.
"Good," Harry said as he retrieved Zar'roc and strapped it to his belt.
When they landed at the base of Tronjheim, Orik approached in a hurried manner.
"My King Hrothgar wishes to see you both. Please come quickly," Orik requested.
Harry followed Orik into the base of Tronjheim through many tunnels. Beneath the main chamber of Tronjheim they came to a set of large granite doors with the seven pointed crown carved into it. One of the seven dwarf guards opened the door of the throne room. It was a natural cavern a good distance long. At the opposite end of the hall was a black throne with a dwarf sitting upon it. Harry and Saphira entered. Orik stayed outside and the doors closed. As he walked further into the cave, Harry noticed statues between the stalactites in the room depicting previous dwarf kings sitting on a throne. Hrothgar wore a gold helm lined with rubies and diamonds. The king wore a mail shirt and had a war hammer sitting on his lap. The dwarf himself had a white beard tucked into his shirt and presented the visage of a fierce warrior.
"Greetings King Hrothgar," Harry said respectfully with a slight bow of his head.
"Greetings Rider," Hrothgar said as he inspected Harry. "Az knurl deimi lanok is an old dictum of ours which means 'Beware the rock changes,'" He said. "These days it changes very fast indeed. I was unable to meet with you earlier because my enemies within he clans demanded I deny you sanctuary. They wished me to expel you from Farthen Dur. It took much work by me to persuade them against this."
"Heavy handed manipulation tactics," Harry sent to Saphira. "Make us ingratiated to him."
"Yes. It would seem so," Saphira replied.
"Your efforts to fight Galbatorix's tyranny are appreciated," Harry said. "For it is only by working together that we can overcome Galbatorix."
"That was very nicely said," Saphira said appreciatively.
Hrothgar pointed to the line of kings and said, "There are one and forty kings sitting in this hall. I am the forty second. When I pass my hirna will be added to their ranks. My people have ruled here for eight millennia. We are the bones of this land older than the fair elves and the savage dragons. Even by the standards of my race I am old human. I am old enough to remember when the Riders were strong. Their last leader Vrael paid tribute to me in this very hall. I also remember how they meddled in our affairs. But I remember how the peace they instilled allowed one to walk without harm from Tronjheim to Narda. You are a lost tradition revived. What is your intent now that you have come to Farthen Dur?"
"My intent is to train and grow stronger. I will aid in the fight against the Varden. But while I am doing so I will reestablish the Rider order. But in doing so I will make changes. I will learn from the past of the Order. I will also be wary of arrogance developing that could lead to another downfall," Harry replied.
Hrothgar nodded and asked Saphira, "And what of you oh dragon?"
"Tell him I will work with you to achieve your goals. For our goals are one. I also seek to bring more dragons into the world through my brethren being held by the king," Saphira said.
Harry relayed her words.
"I see," Hrothgar said. "Rider, what is to stop you from seeking to take Galbatorix's place on his throne?"
"Nothing except for my desire to stay out of the politics of ruling humans. My goal is to restore the Rider order, not rule humans. I do not envy any king or queen the task set before them," Harry said.
"Has Orik, my youngest sister's son, been a good guide for you during your time here?" Hrothgar asked.
"Very good," Harry replied.
"I am glad to hear it. I give you this advice before we part. If you wish the support of the dwarves you must prove yourself to them. Dwarves have long memories," Hrothgar said.
"I will keep that in mind. It was a pleasure to speak to you," Harry said.
Hrothgar nodded and Harry left followed by Saphira.
"Did it go well?" Orik asked anxiously as they walked back to the main chamber of Tronjheim.
"I believe so," Harry replied.
"Good," Orik said. "You should be aware that when you blessed the child yesterday it has garnered the attention of the Varden. The child is being hailed as a future hero. She and her guardian are being housed in the finest rooms. Other human mothers are intent upon seeking you out for the same."
"That is good to know," Harry replied.
Salazar may know a spell to help with that. As it would turn out later when Harry asked him, Salazar did know a variation of the Notice-Me-Not charm useful for this situation. This variation would make it so people intent on finding Harry for a particular purpose wouldn't notice him. It was bloody useful. It had far more selectivity than the general Notice-Me-Not taught in most magical schools.
"What would you like to do today?" Orik asked.
"First I would like breakfast. Then I would like to see more of Tronjheim," Harry said.
"I will return to the dragon hold," Saphira said. "There is an acquaintance I would like to meet," She added mysteriously.
Harry would leave Saphira her secrets. He had his after all.
As she flew away, Orik suggested, "You may like to see Tronjheim's library. You will find a history of Alagaesia not tainted by the Empire's influence."
"That sounds wonderful," Harry agreed.
After they ate, Orik showed Harry to the library. It had marble pillars which rose up five stories lining the chamber. Black marble bookcases were everywhere filled with scrolls. Twisting staircases led from level to level. Stone benches and wooden tables lined the room regularly for people to read at.
"This is perhaps one of our race's greatest treasures," Orik said. "There are also some human writings as well. Nothing of the elves exists here. The elves guard their secrets jealously." Harry could understand that. "Stay as long as you would like. Come find me if you have any questions."
"Thank you Orik," Harry said.
Harry went about the room beginning to peruse. As he did so, he began casting duplication spells storing the duplicated scrolls in his expanded satchel. It was as he was doing this that Harry sensed two other magic users in the room. He made himself virtually invisible through his disillusionment and Notice-Me-Not charms. He was glad he did. Because moments later he saw the Twins searching through the bookshelves. He was willing to bet they searched for him.
"I don't want to talk to those two shits," Harry thought.
After a short while they gave up and left. Harry stayed for some time in the library exploring. Eventually he went to see Orik.
"Did you find what you were looking for?" Orik asked.
"I did. But I would like to continue looking around. I will probably be coming back and forth between here and the dragonhold. You've done a good job of showing me where I need to go. But I know you must have duties of your own. How about this. When I need to speak with you about something I don't know I will contact you on this," Harry said as he passed Orik a small mirror.
"Is this a magical communication mirror? I've heard that some magic users can communicate with them," Orik said.
Harry wasn't aware that this was a thing in this universe. But that was good information to know.
"It is," Harry agreed. "Say my name and if I am able I will respond. I can do the same by saying your name."
"It is a precious gift," Orik said. "Thank you. I will keep it safe."
The mirror was charmed to be damn hard to break.
"You're welcome," Harry said.
"I will guide you back to the stairs up to the dragonhold," Orik said. "Unless you were going to have Saphira fly down and pick you up."
"I'll walk," Harry said.
As they walked Orik said, "I noticed the Twins in here earlier. Were they looking for you?"
"They were. But I avoided them," Harry said. "I can't place my finger on it. Something about them doesn't sit right with me. The way they hold themselves and their manner is disturbing to me. I do not want to associate with them."
"You're a good judge of character then," Orik said. "That will serve you well."
Harry and Orik chatted until they reached the base of the endless staircase. They parted ways then. Harry walked up a few flights of stairs and then apparated the rest of the way up. When he reached the hold he found a young woman of perhaps seventeen waiting for him.
"Please, could you tell me where Rider Eragon is?" Nasuada asked Saphira having not noticed Harry.
"I'm right here," Harry said from the entrance of the dragonhold.
Nasuada spun with her hand going to the dagger at her hip.
"I am Nasuada," Nasuada said with a slight curtsy.
"What brings you here Nasuada?" Harry asked.
"My father Ajihad sent me here with a message," Nasuada explained. "Would this be a good time for you to hear it?"
"It would be fine," Harry said. "He is pleased you are doing well. But he cautions against actions such as your benediction yesterday. They create more problems than they solve. He wanted to let you know that he can't communicate with the elves about you until he knows where you stand with your training."
"I see," Harry said. "You might tell your father when you next speak with him that it was not an easy thing to refuse the woman Greta about the blessing. Such things will not be a problem in the future. I have taken steps to make sure those who seek me for such a purpose will not easily find me."
"I see," Nasuada said somewhat startled.
If she was reading between the lines correctly the Rider was referring to magic. She hadn't known such a thing was possible.
"As to the matter of testing," Harry said. "I will get to it when I am rested. Not before." Harry inspected Nasuada carefully. "But I suspect that will be in the near future. My strength returns rapidly with the hospitality the Varden has shown me."
"I will convey your words to him," Nasuada said.
Nasuada left and Saphira asked, "Do you find her attractive?"
Harry snorted and said, "Saphira, one thing you have to learn about human teenagers is that we have many desires of the flesh. I find anything that isn't hideous and is female attractive. Well anything that is of the human and apparently elf species. But as far as looks go Nasuada is alright."
When comparing Nasuada to your average woman she looked pretty decent. But when comparing her to the likes of Hermione, Arya, and Daenerys she couldn't quite measure up. Harry had met a lot of beautiful women in his life. The mystery of who Saphira had wanted to visit with was solved when Harry returned to the cave. Solembum was curled up in the hollow of Saphira's neck. As far as Saphira was concerned her Rider spent the rest of his day reading from scrolls he had copied from the library. She only thought he had used magic to copy a few scrolls. What she was seeing was actually an illusion. What Harry was actually doing was testing Brom to make sure the now twenty-five year old looking man was as healthy as he appeared. Brom hadn't suffered any ill effects from the reverse-aging transfiguration.
"Your process appears a complete success," Harry told Salazar.
"Yes. And the tests reveal that it should be able to be repeated again and again without ill effects. This is everything I had hoped for. Those non-magical texts were really the key. Without their understanding of what exactly aging is on a genetic level I would have never have completed the process. Immortality has been achieved," Salazar said.
"Wicked," Harry said with a grin. "I love magic."
"As do I," Salazar said. "Now, let's continue practicing the strengthening spells which will make you stronger and faster physically."
Harry spent the rest of that day practicing those spells.
HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP
The next day Orik met Harry and Saphira at the base of Tronjheim joining him for breakfast.
"I heard that Nasuada came to visit you yesterday," Orik said.
Harry didn't even bother asking how Orik had heard. It went without saying that Tronjheim would be full of spies.
"I did. Is Ajihad still with her mother?" Harry asked curiously.
"As far as I know, no," Orik said. "Ajihad brought Nasuada with him to Farthen Dur when she was a young child."
After breakfast Orik led Harry to the training field at Harry's request. When they got there the sounds of steel on steel and arrows hitting targets filled the air. Harry observed many soldiers with shields and pole axes. He also saw hundreds more individual warriors with all types of weapons practicing while wearing their armor. There were just as many dwarves training as humans. There was also along line of archers practicing on sackcloth dummies. A man in chainmail and oxhide armor strode over to Harry and Orik as they approached. The man carried a huge sword.
"Knurla Orik, you've been gone too long. There is no one left for me to spar with," Fredric said to Orik.
"If you fight with a monster sword that is to be expected," Orik replied with a grin.
"Not of someone like you," Fredric said.
"Someone like me is faster than a giant like you," Orik pointed out.
Fredric turned to Harry and said, "I'm Fredric. I've been told to find out what you can do. How strong are you?"
"Actions speak louder than words," Harry said.
"They do," Fredric agreed. "Do you know any weapons besides that bow and a sword?"
"Just my fists," Harry replied.
Before Fredric could say anymore his face broke into a scowl when he spotted someone behind Harry. Harry had sensed the Twins approach.
"You two were told to stay away from the training area," Fredric told them.
"Ajihad ordered us to test his proficiency in magic before you exhaust him with your test," Ezra said.
"Hello Eragon," Trianna greeted from where she stood beside and slightly back from the twins.
"Trianna," Harry greeted with a nod.
The Twins walked a short distance from the training combatants and drew a pentagram. Trianna stepped closer to Harry.
"I believe they mean to make you look weak," Trianna whispered.
"They are fools," Harry said.
Trianna glanced at Harry uncertainly. Salazar had been providing Harry some special training just for this situation. Between Harry and Salazar they had brainstormed many things the Twins might try to do.
A rock was placed on the ground and then Egraz said, "Raise the rock to eye level."
Harry nodded and said, "Stenr reisa."
The rock resisted being moved more than a foot into the air. The Twins were obviously using their own abilities to impede Harry. Harry smiled nastily. Suddenly the Twins felt a searing pain in their minds. The more they resisted the rock the worse the pain became. It was like trying to lift something with a pulled muscle. The rock shot to eye level as all resistance dropped away. They had Harry put the stone through complex tasks. Harry started using words which weren't the ancient language.
Really he was using his non-verbal levitation spell, banishing spell, and summoning spell to move the rock. Harry had such fine control of these spells through much practice that it looked like telekinesis. The Twins put Harry through more complex tasks because they were trying to learn more words of the Ancient language. Harry wasn't going to give them that. The tasks switched to manipulating water, casting fire, scrying, juggling rocks, hardening leather, freezing items, controlling the flight of an arrow, and healing scratches.
Trianna was impressed with Eragon's magical ability. She was also impressed that he had managed to show no signs of strain at the duration of the test. She would have long since been exhausted. She really wanted to call a halt to things. But she feared what the Twins would do to her in secret if she intervened. There were two of them and only one of her. She didn't want to meet with an accident.
"One final task," Egraz said as he removed a silver ring from his robes. "Summon the essence of silver."
Trianna was about to speak up when Arya beat her to it.
"Stop this farce at once," Arya called as she appeared behind the Twins. Her bow was strapped to her back and her sword to her hip. She was dressed in leathers with a leather strap on her head restraining her hair. She looked beautiful. Harry also noted that she looked a lot better off than the last time he had laid eyes on her. She turned to Harry and said, "What they ask of you is something only a master would know how to do after many years of practice. Arget," She said.
The ring in Egraz's hand had a shimmering image of a ring appear next to it. The spectral ring glowed white hot. The Twins both fled from the field as one. They couldn't leave fast enough.
"Effective," Harry said. "If I had known that was what they were asking for I would have easily gotten rid of them."
By this point Arya had released her spell. Harry held out his hand and whispered a few words. The same spectral image appeared next to the ring stunning Trianna. Arya who had hearing far superior to a human's looked at Harry with respect.
"Brom taught you illusions well. Not the true essence of silver. But the Twins would not have known that," Arya said. "Come. Show me your skill with a blade."
Arya strode to the side of the training field. All those present stared at Arya in a measure of awe as she drew her blade and spun to face Harry. Harry drew Zar'roc as he approached her. Harry knew elves were far faster and stronger than humans. He wondered how she would compare to Durza. Arya leapt at Harry slashing at his right side. He blocked the blow surprised by her speed. He had known she was going to be fast. But he had barely gotten his blade up in time. She spun and slashed at his left side. Again he blocked. Arya never stopped. This time her thin blade came at his head. Again he blocked it. He blocked all of her strikes and occasionally attacked back. His blade got to within six inches of her body. But she always intercepted her strikes. She was faster than him. But he always kept his blade near his body and was able to block hers.
Arya then began to actively try to get through his defenses in earnest. To her amazement she found that she could not. She was moving at her fastest and started really putting her strength into it. He met her strikes with his blade. He also moved his body out of the way so that even if her strikes would have gotten through he would receive no more than a flesh wound. Finally she stopped moving with their blades locked and met his gaze.
"You pass," Arya said before sheathing her blade in one swift motion.
"I wasn't sure I would be able to stop your attack," Harry said.
The warriors watching cheered at the fight. Arya gestured with her head to a knoll about a mile from the field. She turned and left. The crowd parted for her. Harry followed. Arya began running and ate up the distance far faster than Harry could run. He hopped on Saphira and she took off. The dragon touched down first. Arya wasn't very far behind. She wasn't even breathing hard when she stopped.
"Well met Eragon," Arya said.
"You look much better than when we last saw you," Harry said.
"Yes. I feel much better. I owe you a debt that can never be forgotten. You saved my life. More than that you saved me from a terrible fate. I was to be moved to Galbatorix himself soon," Arya explained.
"I did what anyone should have," Harry said.
"Most would have either left me there or worse taken pleasure from me in such a defenseless state. I am not unaware of the effects my kind have on humans," Arya said. She stepped closer to Harry and pressed a kiss to his cheek. "I thank you with all my heart. Your honor is much appreciated."
Harry felt instantly aroused when her lips pressed his cheek. It was like a veela.
"You are welcome," Harry said, his tone husky.
Arya could sense how aroused he was suddenly. She could smell it on him. She put a little space between them and started walking.
"Walk with me," Arya invited. The two walked in a companionable silence by this point. "We never discussed in detail how Durza captured me."
"I sensed the topic was too painful," Harry admitted.
Arya glanced at Harry appreciatively and said, "I thank you. My companions Faolin and Glenwing were slain when Durza ambushed us. They knew exactly where we would be and met us with overwhelming force. That combined with the surprise meant my companions were dead before we knew it."
"I'm sorry to hear that," Harry said genuinely.
She was silent for several moments and admitted, "Faolin and I were…close. They had traveled with me as I carried Saphira's egg for seventy years."
"I can't imagine what that must be like, unable to even say goodbye," Harry said.
"That part is very difficult. I do not know what to do now," Arya admitted. "They're gone. And my mission to carry the egg is complete. It hatched."
"What led you to take up the mission in the first place?" Harry asked.
"I believed the egg was our best chance to defeat Galbatorix. He is a threat to all of Alagaesia. I still believe that," Arya admitted as she glanced up at Harry and met his eyes.
"Well for that I will probably need more training. Ajihad tells me the elves would like to train me," Harry said.
"Yes. After the Urgal situation is dealt with here I would like to guide you back to the realm of my people, to Ellesmera," Arya said. "We have much to teach you."
"I would like that," Harry agreed. After a companionable silence he asked, "Could you elaborate on that essence of silver magic the Twins asked of me?"
"In the Ancient language, it is possible to speak an object's true name and summon its true form," Arya explained. "This takes years of training and discipline but grants you complete control over that object. Even the Twins cannot do this. When you eventually learn your true name you must keep it hidden. If one with evil in their heart learns your true name they could dominate you utterly."
"That is very good information to know. Thank you," Harry said. "I find it strange how I found you. At times, I would be sleeping and it was almost like scrying. I would see you in your prison in Gil'ead."
"At times I felt like there was a presence with me," Arya said. "I've never heard of anyone being able to scry in their sleep."
"Perhaps outside forces caused it. Or it could be an ability of my own developed. I suspect that will remain a mystery at the moment. I have another minor mystery. When I was healing you I saw the tattoo on your back. Brom left me a ring with the same symbol," Harry said as he took the ring off and showed it to Arya. "Could you explain the significance of the symbol?"
Arya examined the ring and said, "The symbol is called the yawe. This is a token of an elf-friend so valuable it hasn't been used in centuries. I never knew that Queen Islanzadi thought so highly of Brom. Hold onto that ring. It may help you when you meet my people. Please tell no one of my tattoo."
"I will not mention it to anyone," Harry said. "I was only curious. There were far more distracting sights when I was healing you."
Arya picked up on the flirting. She was uncertain how to feel about it. On one hand she didn't think Eragon should be getting distracted given the destiny he had to fulfill. And there was also the fact that he was very young, much younger than her. Young men were typically immature. But on the other hand, she could already tell that Eragon was uncommonly mature. And he had saved her life in ways that she could not simply ignore. So, she decided to somewhat respond.
"Like I said, you showed great restraint given such distraction. Such restraint and control of yourself impresses me," Arya said with the barest hint of a smile on her mouth.
They walked and talked a little longer answering questions about one another. There were a few occasions of flirting like the first. But it wasn't the dominant part of the conversation. He really enjoyed spending time with her. He thought she may have felt the same. After parting with Arya, Harry returned to the library and read more of the history of the land. Salazar also submitted the copy of the library Harry was making into his memory.
Later that night Harry was woken from a sound sleep by a dwarf walking across the wards set up outside the cave.
"Argetlam, there is great trouble. Ajihad has requested your presence," Rodrig the dwarf said nervously.
"I will come at once," Harry said as he rose.
The dwarf nodded and left. Harry quickly began donning his armor. Orik was waiting when they reached the gates of Tronjheim.
"All I know is there is Urgal trouble," Orik said as they walked. "You'll have to wait to hear the rest from Ajihad."
Harry nodded as he followed. When they entered Ajihad's office Arya and a man Harry hadn't met yet were there.
"Good," Ajihad said when he saw Harry. "Eragon, this is Jormundur, my second in command." Harry nodded at Jormundur who did the same before they turned their attention back to Ajihad. "Approximately a half hour ago a bleeding dwarf ran out of a tunnel with enough sense left in him to tell us he encountered an army of Urgals about a day's march from here. What's more is they are coming through the tunnels."
"We're damn lucky we got an early warning," Orik said. "There are hundreds of tunnels throughout the mountain range. Many of these tunnels haven't been used since the day they were mined. Only eccentrics go into them. Where exactly did the eccentric come from?"
"Here," Ajihad said as he pointed to a map on his desk with a detailed view of the Beor Mountains.
"Orthiad," Orik said with surprise. "It has been abandoned since Tronjheim was completed centuries ago. It was once our greatest city."
"Ithro Zhada," Harry said with realization.
Ajihad looked up and said, "Yes. I suspect Orthiad is called that based off of the communications intercepted by our people. I also suspect that some of the tunnels from the surface must have collapsed which let the Empire's forces make their way into the tunnels."
"Do we know anything about the number of urgals present or if the Empire's human troops are with them?" Jormundur asked.
"Unfortunately we know none of that information," Ajihad admitted. "If the troops are with the Urgals we can't hope to survive them. If not, we stand a chance. I've already sent runners to Orin in Surda and Islanzadi in Ellesmera letting them know what has happened. There is no chance of help from those fronts at this late hour. But at least they will know our fate if we fall. Hrothgar and I have a plan. We are going to contain the Urgals in three of the larger tunnels so we can control the flow into Farthen Dur. The plan requires the collapsing of all but the three larger tunnels. The teams of dwarves working on it need magical help. Arya and Eragon, will you help?"
"I will," Harry said while Arya nodded.
"So to clarify we won't actually be planning on doing any fighting in Tronjheim. We will be channeling the enemy out into Farthen Dur," Jormundur said.
"That is correct," Ajihad replied. "We must prevent the Urgals from taking Tronjheim because we do not have the strength to get them out if they secure themselves. If we force them into the flats surrounding Tronjheim that will give our armies room to maneuver."
"And what of our families?" Jormundur asked.
"We are evacuating them to the surrounding valleys. Should we fall guides will lead them to Surda," Ajihad explained.
"I will ready the men to fight," Jormundur said.
Jormundur left with Harry, Orik, and Arya following close behind.
"Hop on and I will drop you off at your tunnel," Harry suggested when they reached Saphira.
"I have other preparations to make," Orik said.
Harry nodded. Arya climbed on behind him and wrapped her arms around Harry's waist. Her touch felt good. It was nice to actually have her awake.
"This is a reverse from how we usually travel together," Arya whispered into his ear. "Normally you're behind me."
Harry turned and threw her a smile saying, "I do like it that way. But this is nice too."
Saphira leapt into the air. She flew until they saw a cluster of lanterns in the dark. Saphira touched down and Arya slipped off. They were airborne again within moments. They flew to the next cluster of lights. When Harry got off he approached the dwarves.
"I'm hear to help collapse the tunnel," Harry said.
"The tunnel is about four yards directly beneath us," Ragna, the leader, said.
"Please everyone move away from the tunnel," Harry said.
The dwarves looked dubious. Ragna gave them a nod and everyone moved back. Harry moved back himself. He laid his hands on the ground. He whispered the words to the spell and channeled the magic into a localized earthquake. He focused on making the impact centralized around the tunnel. He didn't want to cause an earthquake in Farthen Dur. The rattling grew so intense around the tunnel that a loud deep shattering sound was heard. The tunnel caved in on itself. The dwarves looked impressed.
"Can you repeat that feat?" Ragna asked.
"I can," Harry confirmed.
"This way then please," Ragna said.
Ragna had Harry collapse six more tunnels. It only took him a half hour including travel time. Harry noticed as he did this that a large gathering of women and children were being led away by a small group of soldiers which mostly consisted of old men along with some young men. The Varden's army was also assembling into three battalions at the base of Tronjheim.
Orik arrived as Harry finished the last tunnel dressed in battle gear consisting of a burnished steel hauberk down to his knees, a thick round shield, chain mail covering his legs, while carrying a war axe.
"Ajihad requests that you join the army. Food is waiting for you and Saphira," Orik said.
"Alright," Harry said as he got on Saphira.
Orik directed them to a particular tent. When they arrived it was to find a pile of dried meat for Saphira and bread for Harry. Harry transfigured the bread into something more appetizing when nobody was looking and consumed it quickly. Orik soon turned up leading a line of dwarves carrying polished steel pieces.
"Dragon armor, a gift from Hrothgar," Orik said with a pleased look. "It has been lying in a vault since before the fall of the Riders."
"Tell Hrothgar that we are grateful if you see him before we do," Harry said.
"Let's try it on," Saphira suggested.
With the help of the dwarves Saphira was soon armored up. Only her wings and lower jaw were left unprotected from armor so that she could fly and bite.
"You look good," Harry told Saphira.
Saphira was pleased at that.
"We brought armor for you as well. It was difficult to find your size. We don't know who this was forged for. But it has never been used," Orik explained as Harry received his armor.
Harry quickly put the leather backed mail on first. Zar'roc was belted on next. Next was the leather cap over his head followed by a mail coif, finished with a gold silver helm. His forearms received bracers while his legs got greaves. His hands were covered with mail-backed gloves. Orik also handed him a shield with an oak tree symbol on it. Harry charmed the armor to be unbreakable and feather-light. He did the same for Saphira's armor when she wasn't paying attention and Orik as well.
"This will serve me well. Thank you," Harry said.
The battalions split apart with each going to a collapsed tunnel. Harry, Saphira, and Orik followed along behind. The rubble was positioned so that enemies could climb out of the tunnel. Hundreds of lanterns had been positioned on poles upon the field to provide light. The rim of the tunnel roof was lined with heating cauldrons of pitch. Sharpened sapplings were being placed in the ground between the battalion and tunnel entrance. Harry and Saphira went to help dig trenches. In short order the trenches were dug and lined with spikes.
"Hrothgar leads the battalion to our left and Ajihad the battalion ahead of us. Jormundur commands the battalion we are in," Orik explained when he returned from checking in with the other leaders.
At that moment Ajihad approached. He went straight to Harry.
"You look good in your armor," Ajihad said.
"Thank you," Harry replied.
"One of the Twins is staying in the dragonhold to watch the battle. He will be relaying information to his brother who will tell me. I know you are able to speak with your mind. I need you to tell the Twins anything unusual you see happening during the battle. I will be able to relay orders to you through them," Ajihad said.
"I can do that. But I don't trust them," Harry said. "Take this just in case."
Ajihad accepted the small mirror with a shell around it.
"A battle is no place for a mirror. How will this help?" Ajihad said.
"There is magic on that which will make it very hard to break. You could smash it with the pommel of your sword and it won't break. If you say my name into the mirror it will allow you to communicate with me. Use it if you are ever in doubt of the Twins and I will do likewise. I can contact you with my mirror," Harry said.
"Magic is truly a wondrous but terrifying thing," Ajihad said. "Thank you. I have one request of you in this battle. Please avoid unnecessary risks. Any who oppose Galbatorix cannot afford to lose you."
"I will endeavor to do so," Harry agreed.
Ajihad nodded and left. From there it was a waiting game. Arya came and stood with him.
"The armor fits you well," Arya said appreciatively.
"As does yours," Harry said as he glanced up and down her form. "Seeing as how this is my first full scale battle, is it always like this?"
"Yes. The tension before battle is often the hardest part," Arya admitted. "Certainly the battle itself is terrible. But during battle there is no time to dwell on fear. Those who do die."
Harry and Arya conversed as the hours passed. The light faded from the opening in the peak above.
"You should sleep," Arya told Harry after a while. "I will wake you if anything changes."
"Don't you need to sleep?" Harry asked.
"Elves do not sleep. We enter a resting trance. But I am far from needing that," Arya said.
"Alright," Harry said.
Harry quickly went to sleep. Arya examined her rescuer spending the time doing so in minute detail. He was a handsome specimen of a human. She didn't know if it was his physical appearance, his obvious power, or the fact he had saved her life which attracted her to him. She spent the time watching over him musing on that.
The next time Harry awoke it was to Arya's touch.
"Eragon, wake. It is time to fight," Arya said. Harry shook off the last vestiges of sleep and got to his feet. "A scout exited one of the tunnels a few moments ago."
"I'm going to fight from Saphira's back to start with. You should join us," Harry invited.
"What better way to watch your back than literally being at your back," Arya said as she climbed onto Saphira behind him.
It took over ten long minutes for the urgals to actually come out of the tunnel. When they did, the pitch was poured into the tunnel opening. The screams of the urgals was horrifying. Harry winced.
"Not a good sound," Harry said.
"I do not enjoy the pain of others. And I cannot condemn an entire race for the actions of a few. But it was Urgals that assisted Durza in slaying my companions when I was captured," Arya said.
"I can understand how you wouldn't care for urgals after that," Harry said.
The pitch was lit in all three tunnels. The greasy black fire that resulted filled the air. The urgals that got through began forming a line near the tunnel opening. Varden archers began firing arrows at the assembling enemy. Harry and Arya both drew their bows and fired repeatedly at the enemy.
"No Empire troops," Arya noted between firing arrows.
"That's good," Harry said.
The Urgals had even brought the standards of their tribes through the tunnel. When enough of them had assembled a war horn blew and the Urgal force charged. The front lines were stopped by the rows of stakes. But there were a lot of Urgals. Black Urgal arrows flew into the ranks of the Varden. Redirection spells Harry had cast on himself and Saphira altered the trajectory of any arrows that were heading for unarmored parts of their bodies. But the trajectory was altered just a tiny amount, just enough to miss the exposed areas. The Varden and Urgal front ranks crashed together.
Saphira roared along with the dwarves and men at their side as she rushed forward. She tore a Kull apart with her teeth and talons. Zar'roc lashed out to stop an urgal chieftain with a war mace from hitting Saphira's wings before thrusting forward and dealing the chieftain a lethal strike to the throat. Arya also parried strikes towards either Saphira or Harry. Her elven speed saw her striking down several foes in the span it would have taken a human to fight even one opponent.
Saphira, Harry, and Arya tore through the Urgals that had intermixed with the Varden and dwarves for several more minutes when they were surrounded by twelve Urgals wielding spears. Harry's redirection wards wouldn't stop the spears very effectively. The wards were meant for light-weight projectiles. The most the wards would probably do was redirect thrown spears.
"Do not try to leave Arya and I behind," Harry sent to both Saphira and Arya before he whispered a spell which broke six of the spear tips off their shafts.
Harry then leapt off Saphira at one of the surprised Urals without a spear tip. Harry quickly killed the Urgal and then began going after the Kull who did have spears. Arya, seeing what Harry was doing, went the other direction after the remaining Urgals with spear tips. Saphira turned her attention on the Urgals who had no spear tips and began tearing into them. Harry, Arya, and Saphira made quick work of their opponents before the two-legged pair remounted Saphira. Saphira took to the air. They began harassing different sections of the Urgal army swooping in unseen in the darkness and causing carnage.
"The fight goes badly. The Urgals are pushing the defenders back towards Tronjheim," Arya said.
"I sense a fowl magic in the air. I think someone is controlling the urgals magically," Harry said.
Salazar had been training Harry in magical sensing including how to sense different types of magic.
"Can you tell who is controlling them?" Arya asked.
"Not yet," Harry replied. "But I had better relay this to the Twins as Ajihad requested." Harry did so. "They asked us to go assist Hrothgar. His portion of the battle is not going well."
Harry observed Hrothgar wielding Voland against his foes with unmatched speed and skill. None of the enemies that stood before Hrothgar did so for long. Saphira landed and the trio went to work reaping death upon the enemy warriors. Harry idly noted Angela and Solembum fighting nearby. Angela fought with a staff that had a blade on each end. Solembum was in his human-like form of a small shaggy haired boy. The werecat was using a dagger to fight. The fighting drug on for hours.
"The Urgals seem never-ending," Arya said with despair in her thoughts. "The Varden cannot keep this up." "I know," "Agreed,"
They had no sooner taken to the air than an urgent communication came from the Twin in Tronjheim.
"There are sounds like someone is digging up from beneath Tronjheim. Ajihad requests you come collapse any tunnels being dug," Egraz said.
Just then a projectile of some sort flew up and smashed Saphira in the chest, denting in the armor there. She let out a pained cry and dropped at the sudden pain. Harry reached into the connection and drew some of the pain away from her mind. She was able to right them in the air.
"The armor at my chest is making it hard to breathe," Saphira said.
"Head for the dragonhold," Harry said.
Saphira did so. When they were able to land Harry quickly inspected the damage.
"I'll live," Saphira sent to both her Rider and Arya. "You need to go stop the attack from below.""I'll see to Saphira and be down shortly," Arya offered.
"Alright," Harry agreed.
Before he turned to leave Arya reached out and took his hand, squeezing it reassuringly.
"Look after yourself Eragon," Arya said. "Don't get yourself into too much trouble without me."
Harry threw her a grin and said, "Of course."
Then he hurried out of the dragon hold. The moment he was out of sight of Arya he apparated to the base of Tronjheim. Egraz Carn was supposed to be in the dragon hold but wasn't. Something didn't feel right about this. The moment Harry appeared a section of the floor was blown upwards dozens of feet. Urgals boiled out of the tunnel revealed by the new hole. Then Durza emerged. The Shade looked directly at Harry. Durza spoke to the Urgals in their language which saw them forming a perimeter around the room.
"So, my young Rider we meet again," Durza said as he approached slowly with a sword in one hand and a shield in the other.
"We do," Harry said. "It will be our last meeting I think. One of us will be dead after this."
It was spoken so calmly.
"The arrogance of youth," Durza said mockingly. "I wouldn't be so sure about that fact. You will serve me in the end. Tell me where your dragon is hiding."
"Fuck off," Harry said and attacked.
Durza parried the blow and responded by sending a lance of thought backed up by arcane energy into Harry's mind. It met the mental defenses Eragon had been trained in bolstered by Harry's occlumency. The shade's mental attack was strong. Harry actually felt it and had to fight hard to resist. But resist he did. He continued to attack with his blade. Durza was moving faster than last time if that was possible. The two exchanged a flurry of blows. Suddenly the Urgals surrounding the room rushed Harry. He was overwhelmed quickly by all the attackers. One of the Urgals drove a sword down through the back of Harry's right calf. The pain was indescribable. But the attack from Durza was even more so. The shade's blade cut a jagged line of what felt like fire down Harry's back despite the armor.
Harry let out a scream of pain and rage. He twisted and apparated behind the shade. Before Durza realized what had happened Harry thrust Zar'roc through the shade's heart from behind. At that same moment there was an explosion of sound from above and a roar. Harry didn't waste time looking up. He lashed out at the Urgals nearby with his magic. Piercing curses flew everywhere cutting holes through the Urgals who had attacked him. Durza was staring down in shock at the blade protruding from his chest. Harry chanced a quick glance upwards and took in the massive shards of the shattered Isidar Mithrim descending towards him. Saphira with Arya on her back was also descending with a massive gout of flame extending from Saphira's open mouth. Harry could apparate out of the way of the falling shards. But first he watched Durza grasp at the blade. Then Durza's skin turned transparent to revealing swirling darkness. Durza let out an otherworldly howl. Then the darkness burst forth from his skin flying apart into three separate entities. The entities, the spirits bound within him, flew through the walls of Farthen Dur and away. It reminded Harry of Voldemort's shade escaping at the end of his first year of Hogwarts.
Arya slowed the fall of the fragments before they hit the floor. They briefly paused in midair and then slowly descended to the ground. Harry grunted as the pain from his back suddenly took priority. He dropped to one knee.
"Eragon," Arya cried as she leapt from Saphira's back and rushed over to him.
Her hands were gentle but strong as she supported him.
"My back," Harry gasped out.
The pain from the wound almost became too much. Arya examined his back and let out inhalation of surprise.
"Don't try to move," Arya advised as she set him down gently on his front.
Whispered words sounded in the ancient language and he felt Arya's healing magic flowing over his back. Relief from the pain was coming. But the angry energy in the wound also resisted. Suddenly the pain became more intense. Harry cried out in agony.
"You're hurting him more," Saphira called to Arya and her rider.
"The wound has magic in it," Arya said with pain at the sight of her friend hurting. "If we were in Ellesmera there are greater healers there. I've closed the wound. But the foreign magic is still there."
"How are you not passed out from all the magic you just used?" Harry asked her.
"I nearly am," Arya said tiredly.
"And so are you," Saphira sent. "Both of you sleep. I will watch over you."
The two were nearly ready to pass out, Arya from the exhaustion of magic use and Harry from the exhaustion of battle mixed with pain. They were out immediately. Saphira picked them up gently and then carried them up to the dragon hold. It was tricky landing in the cave where they had slept with two passengers in her claws. But she managed it. She laid her Rider and the elf he liked in the small bunk. They immediately curled together, Arya resting her head on Harry's shoulder.
HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP – IC – GoT – HP
Rev 0 Posted 6/27/2021
Author's Note 2
If you want to access the erotic versions of any of my stories, follow the following instructions:
1) Go to Facebook and join the group Stargatesg1fan1's Fanfiction Works and Favorites (make sure you answer the security question)
2) Go to the Announcements section of the group. You will find a link in one of the posts to a Google drive folder. Inside that folder are copies of all of my stories (the smutty versions).
Note: If you create a new Facebook account it has to be with a legitimate name. I won't add anyone to the group that looks suspicious (it has to be a real person's name). For example, using the name "Lazy Lazy" is not a legitimate name.
I have chosen to move the erotic versions of my story to a less accessible forum which can be more closely controlled. If you cannot accept that then you don't need to be reading my stories. For those who can accept it, enjoy.
Enjoy,
Stargatesg1fan1