Did a few searches and no one seems to have this issue but me. . .

On PC version. . .

Lvl 36 character with only Smithing 50 (and have not trained 5x this level), am a Companion in the "Inner Circle", if ya know what I mean, and haven't EVER been able to train with Eorlund, at any of my levels, as he always says I have "trained 5/5 this level", even if I haven't trained Smithing at all for several levels.

I used up the smith in Markarth making an "end run" around Eorlund's refusal (also did this specifically to make sure other trainers didn't also think I had trained already). I can head to Riften to continue to Expert level, but it's a real slog for a Whiterun-centric axe-thane! Especially with the MASTER smith right there in my backyard, 10 steps away from my second home, Jorrvaskr!

As noted, I am a Companion (in fact, did all the main quests, so am in VERY good standing).

Only thing I can think of is maybe Eorlund disapproves of the Inner Circle's "proclivities"? He was very deeply part of that whole questline tho.

Anyone have any ideas on this? Thinking that it's a bug.

Have you trained with other trainers?

You can only train five of any skill per level. Not five of every skill per level.

Once you train 5 times you have to level up to do it again no matter what skill it was for

@ Rex and Twisted

Sonnofa. . .You're right. I just tested it on an old save where skills were lower all around, and every trainer increments when one does.

Could have SWORN I trained multiple skills I wanted 5 times each per level at some levels, running back and forth tween Vilkas and Farkas for 2HW and Heavy Armor skills, but guess I never tracked the progressions properly because never had the Septims on hand to train all at once with multiple skills... That and %^& Speech kept bumping me over the edge on my levels when I ended up using it to sell stuff to afford training. . .

Thanks, guys!