Magic
The Ancient Language of Alagaesia is the medium for most magic users. The elves have spoken this language in day to day use for centuries, but most inhabitants of Alagaesia know nothing of it, or at least not how to use it for magic. A lost race, known simply as the "Grey Folk," bonded the Ancient Language to the flow of magic. Its words are spells, when imbued with understanding and intent by the caster.
- "To use magic, one must have a certain innate power, which is very rare among folks nowadays. . ." (Brom to Eragon)
After this rather large prerequisite, the disciple in question (not necessarily a rider) must learn the words of power, the Ancient Language. Simply by becoming a Dragon Rider, one will receive this power. This is a result of bonding with a Dragon, as they themselves are the most magical creatures. The Dragons have always used magic, both spontaneously (not directly intended) and willfully (forming spells).
Magic can be performed as well without speaking, by imagining the intended effect. This is the most dangerous method, as any stray thought could disrupt the spell and kill the caster. This mute technique is demonstrated on rare occasions: by the elven queen Islanzadi, by an elf named Vanir, by the hermit Tenga, and by Eragon and the dragons in their Wizard's Duel with Galbatorix.
Read more about this topic: Dragon Rider (Inheritance Cycle)
Famous quotes containing the word magic:
“a flying open of doors, convergence
of magic objects into
feathered hands and crested heads, a prospect
of winter verve, a buildup to abundance.”
—Denise Levertov (b. 1923)
“Without being forgiven, released from the consequences of what we have done, our capacity to act would ... be confined to one single deed from which we could never recover; we would remain the victims of its consequences forever, not unlike the sorcerer’s apprentice who lacked the magic formula to break the spell.”
—Hannah Arendt (1906–1975)
“Thou treacherous, base deserter of my flame,
False to my passion, fatal to my fame,
Through what mistaken magic dost thou prove
So true to lewdness, so untrue to love?”
—John Wilmot, Earl Of Rochester (1647–1680)