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:
“Religion differs from magic in that it is not concerned with control or manipulation of the powers confronted. Rather it means submission to, trust in, and adoration of, what is apprehended as the divine nature of ultimate reality.”
—Joachim Wach (1898–1955)
“Both magic and religion are based strictly on mythological tradition, and they also both exist in the atmosphere of the miraculous, in a constant revelation of their wonder-working power. They both are surrounded by taboos and observances which mark off their acts from those of the profane world.”
—Bronislaw Malinowski (1884–1942)
“The most refined skills of color printing, the intricate techniques of wide-angle photography, provide us pictures of trivia bigger and more real than life. We forget that we see trivia and notice only that the reproduction is so good. Man fulfils his dream and by photographic magic produces a precise image of the Grand Canyon. The result is not that he adores nature or beauty the more. Instead he adores his camera—and himself.”
—Daniel J. Boorstin (b. 1914)