The energy shaft was an extremely powerful magic attack created by dark magic.
Description[]
When they wanted to use this magic, the magician would raise their hand and summon their magic using the word "garjzla". A crackling shaft of destructive energy would then shoot from their palm towards a target. The attack was so strong, it could pierce most wards and wipe out entire groups of spellcasters maintaining those wards. The only known color of the spell is red, although it is possible that the color changes depending on the person using it (eg. the color change in Brisingr between Arya and Eragon).
Uses[]
The energy shaft was one of the most powerful examples of magic in the entire Inheritance Cycle. It most likely required great strength to use. The only known users of this spell throughout the series have been either dragon riders or shades. The spell was utilized most prominently by Murtagh when he killed Hrothgar on the Burning Plains.
The most unique use of the energy shaft, besides simple destruction, is in piercing wards and shields, as the damage it inflicts appears to be of a directly magical nature. It is possible that it affects the internal organs more than the external flesh of those who are attacked, as when Hrothgar was hit by the spell, no marks or holes were described: "Hrothgar clutched his heart and toppled to the ground". For instance, several magicians joining their power would not be able to stop an energy shaft directed at its target due to the massive amount of exertion it would place upon a ward.
Role in the books[]
After the Mission in Du Weldenvarden, Durza shot nine energy shafts at the Urgals under his command because they failed to capture Saphira's egg, as well as attempting to use the spell upon Arya. Murtagh, after becoming a Dragon Rider, mastered the use of the energy shaft, probably learning it from Galbatorix. During the Battle of the Burning Plains, he then used the spell upon Hrothgar, bypassing the protection and killing multiple dwarven magicians. It is implied that the spell was taught to Galbatorix by Durza, as he appears to be the spell's most adept user. In Murtagh, it is further implied that Durza learned the spell from the Draumar in Nal Gorgoth.
Users of this magic[]
Confirmed to use energy shafts:
Likely used energy shafts: