How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
It's funny to see a hatchling like you beaten by the old one. (16.35)
Very funny, Saphira. Actually, it might be funny if we got to see young Eragon get absolutely trucked by old rickety Brom. Here Eragon learns a valuable lesson from his elder sparring partner: strength comes from experience.
Quote #2
The energy inside him burned at an unbearable level. […] the air resounded with an explosion. A blue shockwave blasted out of the monster's head, killing the other Urgal instantly. (18.44)
Whoa. Here we witness the raw power of Eragon's magic for the first time. Of course, it takes a lot out of him, but we'd rather be drained than have our heads exploded by a supernatural bolt of force, wouldn't you? This is the first hint of the kind of awesome power that Eragon is capable of.
Quote #3
"This magic—for it is magic—has rules like the rest of the world. If you break the rules, the penalty is death, without exception." (19.44)
With great power comes great risk. Brom lets Eragon know in no uncertain terms that his magic skills will make him pay if he doesn't learn to control them. Isn't that a good thing, though? How might Eragon's use of magic be different if he could just blast away at things without any consequences?