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Posted by: Acadian Mar 26 2016, 11:04 PM

Welcome to Buffy's book of short stories! Rather than another chronological saga, this will be a collection of independent (generally short) stories that freely span Buffy's long and ongoing adventuring career. She'll tell you a bit more about that choice of format in her prelude below. One feature of the format she has insisted on is that the stories are not directly linked, sequential or particularly interdependent. While I believe you will find them reasonably consistent with 'Buffy lore', I'm looking forward to what I hope will be quite a bit of freedom and flexibility. The format should also make it easy for any readers who join us in progress or return from an absence, to jump right in with the current story.

For those well-familiar with Buffy, I hope you will continue to enjoy the enigmatic elven mage as she presents selective peeks into her neverending adventures across Tamriel. It is easy for Buffy and I to become emotionally overwhelmed as we contemplate the kind, enthusiastic and encouraging support that many have graced us with over the years. And for that we are profoundly grateful. My fervent hope is that you continue to find our efforts worthy of your valuable time.

For those new to Buffy, please do not let her long history deter you from jumping right in and joining us. While her series of full books are available on the Acadian sub forum, their sheer size makes reading them a daunting prospect. Fortunately, our 'Executive Summary' thread on the same sub forum offers what I believe to be a very effective summary that can easily be read in one sitting per book.

- Hard Crowds and Dancing Whales (1 episode) – post #12
3rd Era. Buffy fills in for sick bard at at tavern in Anvil.

- Unfinished Business – Buffy and the Box (1 episode) – post #24
3rd Era. Buffy finally reports back to Sanguine after inflicting nakedness on the Courtess of Leyawiin and some of her party guests.

- [u]A Bard’s Tale[/u] (5 episodes) – posts #34-66
4th Era. Buffy receives some valuable bard training at the Bards College in Solitude.

- The Case of the Missing Court Mage (2 Episodes) – posts #76-85
4th Era. Buffy helps locate an absentminded and missing mage in the Riften area.



"Acadian, I don't want to write about the Oblivion Crisis right now." Getting up from the desk, I climbed up atop the corner bookshelf and sat down. "I want to write about being ambushed in the Reach by a Thalmor patrol. Or my first encounter as a Slayer with the vampiric Count of Skingrad. Or how, after I managed to lose Azura's Star, we traveled through time to retrieve it. Or maybe about that time when-"

"Buffy," interrupted the paladin, "all those things can eventually be crafted into your larger, overarching plot such that they fit properly along your timeline."

I hopped to the floor. "No!" Both hands planted themselves on my hips as my chin lifted defiantly. "I want to write about those things when the passion moves me to do so, not wait until it 'fits' into some silly book that's so long and complicated we can never write it. Whenever I write something I want, you complain if it doesn't make 'perfect sense' or that it doesn't fit at this point in our 'chronology'. By the time most of the tales I want to share fit into your unmanageable plan, I've long lost the passion that motivated me to write about them!"

There was a long silence before Acadian dubiously remarked, "Are you proposing a book with neither plot nor timeline?"

"Exactly! I am not a plot. I am an elf who travels, adventures and explores - with you, of course." I spread my arms expansively and twirled all the way around once before seating myself on a corner of the desk. "What's hard to understand about that? And would you rather read a story that I wrote when passion moved me to do so, or one that I had to force myself to write in support of some silly timeline?" I softened my tone. "Look, Acadian, you and I can travel between worlds and even move through time together. Why do my stories have to be 'in order'? When a butterfly moves across a meadow visiting flowers, does she do so 'in order'?"

The old paladin chuckled. "Despite my years and experience, the ability to successfully argue with an impassioned woman continues to elude me. Your butterfly metaphor contains a simple logic that I cannot refute. I will never fully understand the. . . whimsy that drives your choices but, over the years, I have grown to at least appreciate it."

"Does that mean. . . ?"

"Yes," he replied. "You are the true source of our passion for writing. I shall constrain you with neither plot nor chronology considerations."

"Thank you, my paladin." I crossed my dangling legs, folded my hands in my lap and smiled. "I know that I can sometimes be a little, well, erratic or even elusive."

Acadian sighed. "Like a butterfly in a thunderstorm, my bowgirl."

"This will be fun!" I chirped.

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Mar 26 2016, 11:10 PM

Well this is a pleasant surprise. And I did smile at the mention of the butterfly and how Buffy is not bound by plot or timeline like many are(I raise my hand). It is great to see her return and the new adventures she'll tell us about throughout Tamriel.

This is great, Acadian! We get more of our Mystic Archer

Posted by: SubRosa Mar 27 2016, 12:36 AM

Yay! More Buffy! I am looking forward to the new anthology of Buffy stories!

Posted by: hazmick Mar 27 2016, 04:56 AM

On this, I think, we are all in agreement. Haa-Rei and I are eagerly looking forward to more Buffy.

Posted by: mirocu Mar 27 2016, 07:19 AM

This really was a fun read! I could very well picture Buffy on that desk with that determination to do things her way. And I do have to agree that doing things while you have a passion for it is the best way to get the best outcome.

Sorry, mr Paladin. But I´m on Buffy´s side here

Posted by: Kazaera Mar 27 2016, 11:59 AM

This was a great read, and I'm eagerly waiting for the new Buffy stories - whatever time period they occur in, and whether or not the collection makes any temporal sense...

Also, sympathies on a character who doesn't want to play chronologically - Adryn currently insistently has her focus on her early childhood years as well as Adryn: Tribunal. I've generally been able to wrangle her back to the current time, but it's been hard going and I'm worried she's going to take inspiration from Buffy's example now!

Posted by: Renee Mar 27 2016, 04:21 PM

Yeah, I'm looking forward too. I missed Buffy's coming up because I didn't join Chorrol until 2012, so I myself will be a picker-upper.

Posted by: mALX Mar 27 2016, 05:08 PM

BUFFY !!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT !!!


Buffy in first person? WOW !!!! WOO HOO !!!!!!! And in short scenes and stories - this is how I originally met Buffy in 2009; little disjointed "Best of Buffy" stories!!!! I loved them, they were my favorite part of the day !!!!

This is AWESOME !!!! And yes, a butterfly should never be tied to a plot or chronological order!

HOOAH !!!!!

Posted by: Lopov Mar 27 2016, 06:52 PM

Awesome, I was hooked immediately when I read the first paragraph of the prelude and read about which things Buffy wants to talk. Then I enjoyed a nice picturesque conversation between the persistent Mystic Elf and the wise Paladin.

Posted by: ghastley Mar 27 2016, 10:16 PM

I think Buffy needs to get Tove the Unrestfull to have a word with Acadian. He explains time much better than anyone else.

Posted by: Grits Mar 28 2016, 06:50 PM

I am delighted to see Buffy’s Book Two beginning! A butterfly is not moved by order, and a dragon is not bound by time. How perfectly fitting that Buffy should share her stories in her own way.

Posted by: Acadian Apr 1 2016, 01:39 PM

The prelude above addressed what has been a big impediment to our writing. ‘Unfettering’ Buffy and fully embracing where her whimsy wants to take us does indeed seem to be helping.

Another problem we have faced is a three-pronged challenge from Skyrim - for that is where Buffy's game and heart reside.

1. Introducing TES dragons into where there was only Acadian's noble ice dragon. Buffy is not the Dragonborn, but we've deconflicted things enough to proceed.

2. Big game mechanics changes from Oblivion to Skyrim. This has been our most vexing challenge to writing. When we try to write Buffy in Cyrodiil using Oblivion mechanics, it feels foreign, dispels our passion and we quit. Our solution is that the ‘mechanics’ we use in Buffy fiction going forward will much more resemble those in the game of Skyrim than the game of Oblivion. The word ‘Skyblivion’ comes to mind but, in truth, her fanfic range now includes Elsweyr, Valenwood, Cyrodiil and Skyrim. But the tools, mechanics, magicks and trappings that she uses will be the same that we use everyday in our modded Skyrim game. This change seems to have really ignited her passion to revisit Valenwood and Cyrodiil. Horse archery with a mystic bow on the plains of the Gold Coast!

3. The time change. Buffy can magically pass both ways through that barrier. How she does so might indeed make for a fine story sometime. It is important now to simply recognize that when she is in Skyrim, it is the Fourth Era and those who play Skyrim will recognize familiar faces and events. When she is south of Skyrim, she is in the late Third Era and those who play Oblivion will see SkyBuffy interacting with familiar faces and events from the game of Oblivion.

As a result of all these changes, Buffy is indeed prolifically scribing away with a rather frighteningly large number of open drafts. I do note that some of them are growing quite a bit longer than I expected. Having learned to . . . adjust to the fickle elf, I have removed the ‘book number’ from this thread. My plan now is to keep this open for short stories, but when one of them gets to be more than a handful of episodes in length, to pause this thread and fully post any longer story we produce as its own smallish book (Book 2, 3, etc).

Thanks all, for the heartwarming encouragement as we dip our toes back into the arena of fan fiction!

DE- I’m so glad you noted the ongoing significance of butterflies to Buffy. Thanks!

SubRosa- Thank you. Your inspiring skill and the unwavering support you have given Buffy for many years have certainly helped us return to writing.

hazmick- Thanks! Your wonderful efforts with Haa-Rei’s adventures have helped inspire Buffy and I.

mirocu- As you know, Buffy runs on passion. I’m so glad you clearly ‘pictured’ her, even in the prelude. Thank you!

Kazera- I’m so pleased to have you join us and thank you for endorsing Buffy’s approach. I think Adryn could do anything/anywhere she wants – her captivating internal voice and endearing character shine through regardless of what she’s doing.

Renee- Why thank you! Buffy is shaped to some degree of course by her long history, but the details are not critical to where she’s going. Really, she’s just like the girl next door who carries a 50 caliber sniper rifle.

mALX- Seven years, my friend. That’s how long Buffy and I have basked in your enthusiastic support. And I treasure it.

Lopov- Thank you. I’m really hoping Buffy’s ‘Girls just wanna have fun’ approach will help get things going. I’m pleased that she’s already considering some longer stories.

ghastley- I loved your Tove the Unrestful reference. Just one of his numerous head-bending comments: "I'll talk to you some more yesterday."

Grits- You words carry a magic that always eases my trepidation whenever Buffy and I embark on something new or different – thank you. I have grown to love Skyrim, but sorting out the challenges I detailed above has been a struggle. Especially for a little elf who has trouble deciding which pair of shoes to wear, then turns around to go back and change them as soon as we start out the door.




“Ladies and gentlemen!” Maenlorn’s announcement was interrupted by derisive guffaws. The Bosmeri innkeeper’s serious demeanor deftly transformed into a mischievous grin and he tried again. “Pirates and wenches!” this time his words received boisterous cheers of approval. As the noise subsided, he continued, “Freya, our regular bard, will be late this evening.”

“Boo!”
“This tavern’s goin’ ta ‘blivion in a fertilizer cart!”
“Freya git sick from eatin’ yer leek soup?”
“That Nord wench can’t sing but she sure do fill out the little dress she wears.”
“Did she fall over from bein’ top heavy and hurt herself?”
“Nah, she woulda bounced.”

Undeterred, Maenlorn held up a hand. “Chance smiles upon us, my friends, for we are joined this very evening by a young lady who has graciously agreed to take Freya’s first set.” The grumbling stopped as many in the tavern looked around curiously.

“She’s an elf with a magical voice,” promised Maenlorn. “We are lucky indeed that she has just arrived in Anvil this very day for a brief stay. Fresh from the forests of Valenwood, please give a warm Flowing Bowl welcome to Buffy the bardic Bosmer!”

As I stepped up onto what served as the tavern’s small performing area, there was some light applause. And a few comments.

“What’s a Buffy? Sounds like a snack on the menu.”
“Mebbe she strips down to the buff when she sings! Haw!”
“Shaddup and give the poor elf a chance!”
“Don’t gotta worry ‘bout bein’ top heavy, do ye!”
“She be a pretty li’l thing though.”
“Probably gots a good voice ta compensate fer bein’ scrawny.”
“Hey, I said shaddup! Let ‘er sing!”

“Thank you for that kind introduction, Maenlorn, and I’m pleased to be here,” I began nervously. “I discovered some time ago that I have an ability, via song, to share images and impressions of places and events I’ve experienced during my travels.” The tavern had grown awkwardly quiet. “Through practice, enhanced by the magical school of illusion, I’ve been able to refine this ability into something that I hope you will find pleasing.” My hopeful look met more blank stares than smiles of encouragement.

“I-I wasn’t expecting to be performing tonight,” I continued to the bored faces in front of me, “so I must ask that you bear with me as I retrieve my lute.” There were several groans and complaints. More than a few patrons went back to their conversations. “It’ll only take a moment – I promise!” I opened my fingers to release a fistful of magic and closed them around the still materializing neck of my lute. There were several ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’. As the swirling tendrils of magic faded, the lute in my hand now looked rather mundane, save the slight bluish glow to its strings and tuning keys.

I hopped up onto the stage’s lone barstool and crossed my dangling legs at the ankles. Realizing how childlike that probably looked, one foot quickly sought and found a crossbar to rest upon and I recrossed my legs at the knee - like a lady. “We’re all familiar with the majesty of the Gold Coast, for who here in Anvil has not been captivated by an Abecean sunset?” I paused to smile, noting what seemed to be interest, or at least curiosity, on the faces of several customers. “I expect many of you draw your very sustenance from the sea?” There were numerous nods, a few affirmative grunts, and several in the audience raised their sloshing tankards in acknowledgement.

I was beginning to feel a bit more confident. “How many have seen the Sea of Ghosts and the haunting beauty it displays as it crashes against the northern coast of Skyrim?” Not a single hand rose, but most eyes were now upon me. “I’m not surprised, for her sights and secrets are well-guarded by many hazards.” I counted myself lucky that I was, for the most part, now holding the attention of these hard-drinking seafarers. After all, I knew from my travels in Skyrim that a big-breasted Nordic bard with an average voice generally kept the attention of tavern goers better than an elven songbird. “But it is also a place where majestic whales dance, and mountains of blindingly blue-white ice grow right out of the sea! Birds with fins instead of wings fly through the water, and giant guardians cloaked in white fur patrol the coast.” I raised my lute into position. “If you’ll permit me, I’ll show you.”

My fingers strummed gently a few times, grateful that the magical instrument easily translated my skill with a bowstring to the strings of a lute. “As I sing, allow yourself to visualize the images carried by my voice.” Focusing on the ruggedly frigid coast of Winterhold, I began - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jg_F9VBgTw

Posted by: mirocu Apr 1 2016, 03:26 PM

What a wonderful little snippet from Buffy´s life!

I really like that ability of hers to project images of places into the minds of her listeners as she sings. Better than any slide show we have here, and I bet her voice is as a hunting as the Sea of Ghosts itself

And I can safely say that if it wasn´t Lothran telling the others to "shuddup", then it was me..


-Thanks for the beautiful song, Buffy! I look forward to your future endeavours!

Posted by: hazmick Apr 1 2016, 03:51 PM

Buffy the Bard! Very nice. "A warm Flowing Bowl welcome" sounds like something I could do without though.

The tavern patron's reactions had me chuckling most heartily. A mixed reaction to the appearance of a skinny Bosmer in place of their usual buxom Nord, but I can only imagine the looks on their faces when she started to sing.


I can relate to the problems you mentioned with Buffy's adaptation to Skyrim. I've been through Morrowind, Oblivion, Skyrim and ESO with Haa-Rei so I tend to pull everything into a big jumble of miscellaneous lore and mechanics. Fortunately most loops and holes can be fixed with magic.

Posted by: ghastley Apr 1 2016, 04:45 PM

She's been taking lessons from Lisette, hasn't she?

Summoning the lute is all part of the showmanship. Get the audience's attention, and they'll start to believe you deserve it. After all, that's just what the Nord was doing.

Posted by: SubRosa Apr 1 2016, 06:02 PM

A delightful night at Maenlorn and Caenlorn's place. I guess the real question is whether Buffy can tell them apart?

I love the catcalls and chatter of the audience. It sounds like Freya is a weeble, she wobbles but she don't fall down.

A brilliant idea to craft Buffy the Blond Bardic Bosmer Bowgirl from Bravil's music as being deeply interwove with illusion magic! It meshes what we have always known as her most potent magical talent with her new bardic skillz. Now Teresa wants to journey to Skyland to see the frozen seas and hear the whale's songs.

Posted by: mALX Apr 2 2016, 03:54 PM

Wait, so SubRosa's cat is overweight and bosomy with a terrible singing voice?



I love this line!

That music vid Buffy's singing was very Skyrim-esque! I could see almost picture the icy peaks and whales dancing!!!

Welcome back, dearest Buffy!!! You have been greatly missed !!!!

Posted by: SubRosa Apr 2 2016, 05:27 PM

I was thinking this too! One of them is overweight! But not Freya. The all have terrible singing voices though!

Posted by: mALX Apr 2 2016, 06:16 PM

When I read that I pictured a rotund Khajiit with 6 ample breasts bulging under her shirt,

Posted by: Lopov Apr 2 2016, 08:32 PM

Congratulations to Buffy for gaining attention of her public, I assume that seafarers are not impressed easily. My favorite scene is as she summons her lute, you wrote that really well, I could imagine people looking at her, surprise in their eyes. A really beautiful song with matching lyrics for the end. It'll be difficult now for Freya to impress the public again.

P.S.
As usual, I also learned some new English words from your story.

Posted by: Kazaera Apr 3 2016, 09:45 AM

Poor Buffy, needing to contend against buxom Nords in order to keep her audience's attention! Her nervousness really shines through here, but she manages magnificently. And I love the way she summons her lute, and weaving illusion magic into her song - I've always really enjoyed it when a story gives us some of the mundane practical uses magic is put to in Tamriel, and Buffy has always managed that magnificently.

Now, I must say I'm deeply curious about Buffy managing to visit 3E Cyrodiil and 4E Skyrim at the same time - I figured Buffy-in-Skyrim had just lived through the intervening years, not actually time travelling! That sounds like an interesting story. Pleeaaase, Buffy? I'll bribe you with... *considers options* ...the umbrella/"Rainshield" spell from Adryn's world? I'm sure it can be extended to keep Superian dry as well!

I hear you about adaptation problems, by the way. I'm playing one character in Skyrim now who's originally from Morrowind, and she's not really sure how to view things like suddenly regenerating magicka despite her Atronach birthsign (and the fact that she had to hike out into the middle of nowhere to get her birthsign, grrr), the fact that Soultrap is now a Conjuration spell, or the sudden proliferation of constant effect enchantments!

(Also, thank you for the kind words about Adryn! )

Posted by: Grits Apr 4 2016, 08:16 PM

Jerric and I enjoyed Buffy’s beautiful, magically multi-media song several times today. He loves it because of course Buffy and also because it made him remember the dreams where he can fly. I’m a sucker for Elven songbirds and penguin swimbirds.

I loved how Buffy won over the boisterous crowd just by being Buffy. Her adjustment to the Freya-sized bar stool was charming!

I feel the struggle with working different game mechanics into one story where magic needs to be consistent. Jerric is campaigning to put an ESO spell into his Oblivion story. It’s the one he calls ‘Ignite Farts.’ (Not its real name.) As ever you and Buffy are an inspiration.

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Apr 4 2016, 09:50 PM

Great information on Buffy's world, Acadian and the changes that came with it. This is awesome.

I laughed at this. Especially the last two. So Freya is absent, and in her place comes in Buffy the Bard. Has a nice ring to it. I can just picture the patrons making those comments. The way the words brought them to life was so amusing that I'm chuckling just as I write this

Buffy's introduction was just as accurate as any event where the show was given from some unexpected stranger. Buffy eased out of an awkward situation and slipped more into a better one as her confidence was found and the crowd was more receptive.

What a nice song!!

Posted by: Acadian Apr 8 2016, 02:04 PM

mirocu- Thank you! Though it is ‘SkyBuffy’ sharing her stories, many of them will be set comfortably in Lothran’s 3rd Era.

hazmick- Fully embracing only one 'version' of Buffy who can time travel has actually ‘freed’ us to write happily in 3rd Era settings – if that makes sense. Thank you!

ghastley- Buffy has indeed been taking lessons from our favorite bard, Lisette. And how astute of you to point out why Buffy intentionally opted to delay summoning her lute until up on stage.

SubRosa- Freya the Weeble – what a perfect name for the busty bard! Thank you for your kind words about Buffy incorporating illusionary visions into her music.

mALX- Aww, thanks! I’m so glad you enjoyed the description of Buffy’s lute materializing, and agree with me that the music vid ‘feels’ quite Skyrimesque.

Lopov- Thank you for those kind words and enjoying the magical appearance of Buffy’s lute. I wouldn’t worry about Freya being able to follow Buffy – she has a couple impressive talents of her own.

Kazaera- Thanks for noting how Buffy’s nervousness gradually transitioned to confidence – I hoped that would come through well. I’m going to ask your forgiveness and remain coy about Buffy’s time travel until we can tell that story in our fiction. I confess I’m also still toying with about three possibilities and want to take some time to ponder which suits her best.

Grits- Thank you so much! I’m thrilled that ‘being Buffy’ still comes through after our lengthy sabbatical from fiction writing. While embracing SkyBuff keeps her gaming exclusively in Skyrim, I’m delighted to have discovered that it also frees our fiction to write anytime/anywhere in Tamriel.

DE- I’m so glad you enjoyed the rowdy taverners’ comments and Buffy’s song. And thanks for your kind words as Buffy muddled beyond her awkward opening moments on stage.

*

As Buffy’s short stories will range widely across Tamrielic time and provinces, I think it might be helpful to introduce each with mention of its ‘setting’. This next one-episode story finds Buffy in 3rd Era Cyrodiil, before she learned how to travel between Eras.

Sanguine’s shrine rivaled the surrounding trees in height. The chubby horned elf of gray stone with a tankard in one hand watched over his revelers. Two Bosmer and a Khajiit in various states of dress and sobriety paid little attention as I slipped from Superian’s saddle to the ground.

From my mage satchel I produced a flask of Cyrodiilic brandy, then approached the shrine.

“You look familiar,” slurred one of the Bosmer.

“My name is Buffy and I was here a long time ago.”

Recognition appeared in his eyes. “Ah, yes. Buffet. I remember now. My Lord sent you to Leyawiin to loosen you up.”

“Stand aside, please. My business is with Lord Sanguine.”

He frowned, but did move out of my way. “Looks like my Lord’s goal to loosen you up failed. A shame, as you look like such a tasty little thing.” He lecherously licked his lips then grinned.

I sighed and approached the Prince of Debauchery. After placing the flask at his feet, I addressed the shrine. “Lord Sanguine. I successfully completed the task you asked for in Leyawiin some time ago. I ask that you return the red dress I was wearing when I cast your spell upon the Countess of Leyawiin and her guests.”

From everywhere and nowhere, his sarcastic voice filled the air around me. “The prodigal elf has returned, and successfully so it seems. Did you lose track of time?”

I stifled my bristling anger. “I was delayed, My Lord, by your colleague and his minions at Kvatch.”

“Dagon never would take my advice to lighten up. You could learn from that lesson, my tight-butted little elf.” He laughed cheerfully, blunting some of the sting in his words. “But no matter, for time means little to us immortals. You did a fine job in Leyawiin ‘exposing’ that stuffy countess and her noble friends. I must say it was a stroke of genius how you made an excuse to slip out of the dining hall so no one saw you cast my spell. When you reappeared naked yourself, the guards assumed you were a victim too. I almost spit brandy when one of the oafs chivalrously covered you with his own surcoat! Ah, yes, you provided me quite the pleasant diversion that evening. Well done!”

“I’m pleased the task was completed to your satisfaction, My Lord. The dress? You see I borrowed it from a-“

“Yes, yes, I’m sure you did.” I heard what seemed to be a bored yawn. “You’ll find your dress and whatever else you were wearing in the chest right behind you.”

I turned around in time to see a flat-topped sea chest of dwemer construction grow from a cloud of magic. The gray container radiated a continuous dull blue glow. I saw no latches but, as I passed my hand over the top, the lid slid open. Sure enough, I found Delphine Jend’s burgundy and green silk dress inside – none the worse for wear. I also found myself quite intrigued by the chest itself. I faced the shrine again. “Thank you, My Lord.”

“See?” he said. “No harm and a good time was had by all. In appreciation, I’ll even let you have one of my prized artifacts. Behold! Sanguine’s Rose!”

The conjuration magic this time was right in front of me, where a thorned staff appeared. It was topped by what appeared to be a carved rose in early bloom. I stared at the artifact hovering before me. Another staff? Sheogorath and Vaermina had long ago given me staves as well – which now sat gathering dust in the Arcane University’s Mystic Archives.

“I’m sure you’re bursting to know what it does!” exclaimed Sanguine proudly.

“Actually, I-“

“It briefly conjures a random daedra to help fight your foes!” he interrupted.

Like the one that killed my Savlian, I thought grimly. “Surely you must be reluctant to part with such a magnificent artifact, My Lord. Perhaps a more modest token might serve me just as well and allow you to retain your beautiful Rose?”

“You would dare bargain with a Daedra Lord?” he boomed ominously.

I gulped.

“You must have the stones of a minotaur hidden in those tight little greaves of yours.” His laughter then filled the meadow. “Very well, I’ll hear your proposal.”

I released the breath I just realized I'd been holding.

Emboldened by the fact that I was still an elf instead of an ash pile, I said, “Perhaps Your Lordship would consider keeping his magnificent staff and, instead, gifting this humble elf with the magical chest holding my red dress. . . and one other small favor that I’m sure is insignificant to one as powerful as yourself.”

He replied, “What a shame you are such prudish thing, for I can imagine countless uses for that silver tongue besides clever flattery.” He laughed again. “Ah, yes, the chest. . . ‘tis but one of my tens of thousands of realms. A tiny realm, yes, but notably larger inside than it appears. I’m intrigued. Continue.”

“In addition to the ability of summoning this magical chest, I would ask for the lifting from my spellbook of your magic that rather traumatically removes clothing.”

“I agree with your requests,” he said, “subject to two. . . minor conditions of my own.”

“The first condition?” I asked nervously.

“A simple thing, really. Join me for a friendly little drinking contest. It doesn’t have to be soon. As I’ve said, time is rather meaningless to a Daedric Prince. Shall I call for you in, say, two hundred years or so? Perhaps you will have loosened up some by then.”

I was mystified by his nonsensical request. . . but could see neither harm nor any real chance of it ever happening. “Agreed. And your second condition, My Lord?”

“Not that I’m a perverted voyeur, mind you. . . well, actually I am, but If you cast that Let’s Get Naked spell right here and now for me, I will then remove it from your repertoire of magicks and gift you with a spell to conjure the chest you desire.” He chuckled. “I assure you that I’m referring the blue dwemer box behind you, not the modest contents of your blouse.”

“And I assure you, Lord Sanguine, that Nordic breasts would hinder more than help this small-framed archer and equestrienne.”

“So you do have a sense of humor, after all!" he boomed jovially. "Well, will you humor me and display your wares in exchange for the dwemer box?”

“Agreed, My Lord.”

“Splendid!” The staff in front of me evaporated into a small puff of magic. I looked behind me to see that the magical chest had vanished as well. “We’ll talk about the staff again perhaps during our date in a couple centuries. And you will be able to summon that box as soon as you banish your clothing to it.”

By now, Sanguine’s three revelers were seated on the benches arrayed around the shrine, waiting for the show. I supposed I shouldn’t have expected to come away from negotiating with a Daedra Lord unscathed. Oh well, nothing I hadn’t displayed to countless waterfalls. I lifted my hand and cast Sanguine’s spell. Sure enough, I and the three revelers were instantly and fully exposed.

“Well done!” cried Sanguine. “While I do like to tease, you’ve been a good sport and have quite the fine little figure, my dear.”

The three revelers applauded, stood and opened several bottles of wine. The older Bosmer said, “Seeing as you’re now properly undressed, are you sure you won’t stay for dinner? Our Khajiiti sister here gives the best kitty licks, and you can be the main course!”

I couldn’t help but smile. “I appreciate the offer, but I’m sure I have somewhere else I have to be.”

Pleased to note that Sanguine had indeed replaced his silly spell, I filled my hand with the new magic and cast it. Sure enough, the magical chest appeared, floating slightly above the ground. I retrieved my clothing, dressed and dispelled the chest.

As I approached Superian, I said, “Did you enjoy the show?”

The mare nickered softly.

After mounting Superian, I turned her south.

“Acadian, you really don’t need to tell anyone about all this.”

“Of course not, Buffy,” he replied with a chuckle.

I glanced at the westering sun. “We should easily make Skingrad by nightfall. We’ll get a room at the tavern instead of the guild – I’ve dealt with enough lechery today without Vigge trying to watch me sleep.”

“That new chest seems deceptively large inside,” remarked Acadian. “There should be plenty of room for camping gear and provisions. Even spare waterskins, I should imagine.”

“And all the other things a girl needs. The shoe shoppe opens first thing in the morning.”

Posted by: hazmick Apr 8 2016, 02:38 PM

An excellent chapter. Buffy seems to have developed a distaste for Daedra, which is hardly surprising given her past experiences.

A pocket realm of Oblivion inside a summon-able chest? Now that is a clever idea. Haa-Rei is now trying to figure out how to make one of his own.

Posted by: ghastley Apr 8 2016, 03:09 PM

Wait a moment. Does this mean that Buffy has actually managed to fill her Bag of Infinite Holding with shoes, and she needs another container? Maybe she just has so much in that one, she can't find what she's looking for.

Or is it just one for now, and another for later? So she can have a separate stash in Skyrim?

Posted by: Renee Apr 8 2016, 03:25 PM

My gosh, those people sure aren't very nice to your tight-butted elf, eh? Undressing in front of them all = yicch! Poor elf. [censored].

I'm hearing the voice of James Earl Jones when Dagon speaks.

Posted by: mirocu Apr 8 2016, 04:00 PM

I have to say that out of all the Daedra, Sanguine at least have a sense of humor unlike some other ones. Not without consequences though.

But at least Buffy got a nice chest out of the deal! And to be honest I don´t know if any pun was intended or not here...

Posted by: SubRosa Apr 9 2016, 12:12 AM

I can definitely attest that Buffy has some impressive stones under those buskins... Maybe not Fighters Guild stones, but some real rocks nonetheless.

I don't blame Buffy for not wanting Sanguine's staff. For one thing, there's no telling where its been! Let alone the associations with monsters that tried to destroy the world, and did slay her beloved.

Uh oh, I think Buffy might regret agreeing to that drinking contest in 200 years!

Let's not forget the shoes!

Maybe not as nice as Sigrid's, but still pretty good...

Posted by: mALX Apr 9 2016, 07:10 AM

Well now we know Bill Clinton's Sanguine's "act of choice,"



Uh...but Acadian never said he wouldn't write it down and post it for all of us to read, dear Buffy!

BWAAHAA !!!!

This was so much more the feel of Buffy's voice here in this chapter; I can tell you were totally immersed in the writing here! (and I see foreshadowing for Buffy doing Sanguine's quest in Skyrim in this one, too - WOO HOO! )

I'm assuming you have a summonable chest as a mod? I need something like that, lol.

And Buffy shoe shopping to fill the chest had me in stitches!!!

And yes, Viggie's bedhopping can keep you from getting well rested in that Guild hall, lol. I think if you sleep downstairs he leaves you alone, lol.

Awesome Write !!!!!

Posted by: Lopov Apr 9 2016, 08:09 PM

Nice recollection of events at Sanguine's Shrine. When Sanguine was about to reveal his conditions, I expected one of them will be for Buffy to expose herself. Judging from reactions of Sanguine's worshippers, it was quite a sight to see.

Posted by: Grits Apr 10 2016, 02:54 PM

Ah, the introduction let me focus on Buffy’s words from the very first one without any wondering about where or when. Thank you for that!

I’m tickled to find out what happened after Leyawiin with the Sanguine situation. Buffy’s magical wardrobe is a charming part of her duality. A wanderer who needs a pocket realm to hold her accouterments!

Every bit of the dialog with the sly Lord of Lechery and his revelers made me grin. I love how Sanguine countered Buffy’s proposal for the chest and one favor by adding two conditions of his own. The future drinking contest was a masterful touch!

Buffy’s grim reminder of Kvatch and Savlian hit close to home. I imagine it would be difficult for veterans of the Oblivion Crisis to deal with any kind of dremora.

The gentle exchange with Acadian at the end made a warm finish to the Sanguine box business. Camping gear, water skins, and new shoes, that’s Buffy!

Posted by: Kazaera Apr 13 2016, 06:47 AM

Buffy dealing with Daedric princes! Wonderful. Some people would assume a dress and getting rid of an annoying spell weren't worth bargaining with Sanguine, but not our intrepid bowgirl! And she nabs a chest that's larger on the inside! Nice, and definitely better than yet another staff for the walls of the Arcane University.

Buffy, no! It's a trap! It's... oh no, she's already accepted. /o\ I have the sneaking suspicion you'll regret that agreement, Buffy. And it won't be in two hundred years from your perspective.

Finally:

Posted by: Acadian Apr 15 2016, 01:43 PM

hazmick- Thank you! Buffy’s tried several clever storage options, but I think she likes this summoned chest the best.

ghastley- Our thinking is that her ‘bag of holding’ is now a more modest mage satchel that can serve more as a day pack with her heavy duty needs and cold food storage etc in the summonable chest. Peeking ahead, Buffy has to time travel naked, so everything she needs has to be conjurable.

Renee- Thank you! I figure it does take some stones to barter with a Daedric Prince and not become an ash pile.

mirocu- Thanks. I agree that Sanguine is . . . not disgusting like several of his colleagues are.

SubRosa- I remember the frustration Buffy felt after her second useless staff (from Vaermina). One more from Sanguine was just too much! Yup, a girl can’t have too many shoes or too much closet space, she figures. Thank you!

mALX- Thank you! I’m so glad you could see the Buffy you know in that episode. Yes, we do have a summonable chest mod.

Lopov- Thanks! I figure Sanguine lives up to his title as the Prince of Debauchery.

Grits- Thanks for the feedback about including a few ‘scene-setting’ notes preceding the stories. It never quite fit into our fiction plans to get Buffy back to Sanguine for her Leyawiin reward during Book 1. But what she would want from it has been firmly in mind for a very long time. Nice to share this bit of unfinished business.

Kazaera- Thank you. Yes, Buffy may regret her deal with Sanguine. She is a bit prudish when it comes to her behavior, but not so much about dropping her clothes. I figure it’s a ‘child of nature’ wood elf thing.

*

Our next story focuses on how the Bards College helped Buffy refine her vocal gifts. This takes place in Skyrim during one of her time traveling excursions. This story actually precedes her performance at the Flowing Bowl that she shared with you a couple stories ago.

Each of the five episodes that comprise this tale culminates in a music vid. I have been ruthless in my editing to ensure the prose portions are both short and sharply focused on setting up the music vid selection that crowns each episode. My hope is that you will be able to see, hear and feel Buffy's gradual progression from an amusingly humble start to what we know that she is capable of.

My long day in the saddle melted away into the warm bathwater. Closing both eyes, I began softly singing for Acadian. When I heard the door creak ajar, then quietly shut, I closed my mouth and opened my eyes.

“Your singing is beautiful, Buffy, please don’t stop.” It was Lisette, the Winking Skeever’s bard. She also helped serve drinks and tended the inn’s bath for any women staying there.

“That’s quite the compliment from a songstress of your skill, Lisette, but I’m too self-conscious to perform for others the way you can.” I stood, and gratefully accepted the towel she had brought.

Undeterred, Lisette said, “Look, I know a beautiful voice when I hear it. Why I believe I could even see the images of butterflies in a meadow as you sang.”

I nodded slightly as I combed out my damp hair. “It wasn’t your imagination, it was mine. I can’t help the images that flow through my singing voice. So now you know another reason I could never sing publically.”

She stared at me. “Do you know how many bards would love to have such an ability?” She took the towel from me and handed me my clothes.

“I’m a traveler and adventuress, not a bard,” I said as I dressed.

“Buffy, many bards are travelers. Why, on the road is where the inspiration for so many tales and songs comes from. Look. I’m just finishing my shift. Let me introduce you to Pantea Ateia, Dean of Vocals at the Bards College.”

“Now?” I asked as Lisette helped tie back my ponytail.

“Of course, now!” The larger woman grabbed my hand and I had little choice as she led me out the door.

*

“Lady Pantea, this is Buffy,” said Lisette. “You simply must hear. . . and see her gift!”

The stately Imperial who had just swept into the recital room was well dressed. She smiled at me. “Lisette has an ear as fine as her voice, so I look forward to hearing yours. Do you have a song in mind?”

I nervously shook my head.

Unphased, Pantea said, “Do you know A Dragonborn Comes?” In response to my nod, she smiled encouragingly and continued, “Its popularity and heroic message make it a wonderfully forgiving first tune for a nervous bard. Lisette will accompany you on lute.”

Lisette grabbed a lute and strummed a verse of the song to warm up. “Show us your voice, Buffy, and the gift that it carries.”

The dragon I knew best was Phantom and I thought of her as I opened my mouth. I was still nervous as a chipmunk, but hoped it didn’t reflect in my voice. What I saw on Lisette and Pantea’s faces as I sang, however, was not very encouraging.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47UL1FDSc-w

Posted by: mirocu Apr 15 2016, 04:21 PM

A wonderful song, perfectly vocalized by our dear Buffy! Her gifts (voice and ability) are more precious than gold



*sniff*


-Keep it up, girl!

Posted by: Lopov Apr 17 2016, 08:50 AM

Nicely written conversation between Buffy and Lisette as she helps the singing Elf in the inn's bath.

As mirocu says, the song is perfectly vocalized for Buffy so I have to wonder why would Lisette and Pantea not be enthusiastic about it.

Posted by: ghastley Apr 17 2016, 01:14 PM

Do I smell a slight story arc coming on, with things lost in caves? Maybe it's the "Part 1" in the title that does it.

A bathtub in the Winking Skeever? Pictures, or it didn't happen!

Vivid images of dragons might be a bit daunting to those who haven't met one, I suppose. And since Buffy isn't Dragonborn, her images may be different from their expectations.

Posted by: SubRosa Apr 17 2016, 07:42 PM

Why, on the road is where the inspiration for so many tales and songs comes from
Talsgar speaks!

A lovely little story of how Buffy found her voice.

Posted by: Grits Apr 18 2016, 10:34 PM

Oh how fun to get to see Buffy evolve from a beautiful and charming but untrained singer-songpicturemaker to the uniquely gifted bard that we saw win over the crowd at the Flowing Bowl!

I’m told that Buffy in the bath is a great place to start any story. Some suggest that Buffy sing a song about that part. I am beside myself with delight seeing her interact with familiar faces in Skyrim!

Your editing discipline is admirable. Part 1 is a precisely cut jewel. I love it!

Posted by: mALX Apr 19 2016, 04:02 PM

What a cute little Elfin voice Buffy has in this episode! Like Ghastley, I see a future for Buffy in the Bard College coming up, perhaps helping them retrieve certain lost instruments! How exciting, and one of my favorite fun questlines in Skyrim; but with Buffy involved I know it will be AWESOME !!!

Loved the natural scene with Lisette, easily visualized !!! Awesome Write!

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Apr 19 2016, 07:52 PM

Unfinished Business – Buffy and the Box.

Sanguine. An amusing Daedric Prince. After a brief encounter with Sanguine overly friendly servant, Buffy deals with the Prince of Reverly. Sanguine, though a Daedric Prince, was very, uh, willing when it came to giving Buffy her stuff. Must have been tough to even deal with Dremora, as Grits mentioned. After the Oblivion Crisis, people's tolerance for Daedra shifted quite a bit.

Fun fact about Sanguine's Pocket Realms: "Oblivion plane is an expression of its Prince's very nature, so to say that each 'craves absolute control' of his or her sphere is inexact, as a desire for 'absolute control' is not central to every Prince's nature. To use the example you chose yourself, Sanguine's Myriad Realms of Revelry is a congeries of pocket and sub-realms, within which Sanguine grants his guests considerable latitude for personal customization, as each mini-realm can be refashioned to meet the needs and desires of its visitants. It is in Sanguine's nature to indulge the natures of others, particularly their darker desires—so to Sanguine, 'absolute control' is anathema."

Sanguine doesn't seem too bad

A Bard’s Tale – Part 1

Buffy must have a beautiful voice if it captures the attention of a bard. Nice introduction to Lady Pantea and a song I believe all of us are not unfamiliar with

Posted by: Renee Apr 22 2016, 12:58 AM

Wow yeah, Buffy can sing! I love the mixed-media thing you've got going on here. It's neat how the story just ends with their faces in shock or whatever.

This story is reminding me of Gabrielle on the Xena show, who was also a bard, and there's all these episodes that deal with her struggling to get better at it while she's traveling all over the place.

Posted by: Acadian Apr 22 2016, 03:37 PM

mirocu- Thank you! The songs Buffy will sing during the five parts of this story are all actual bardic songs featured in either Skyrim or ESO.

Lopov- Despite the brevity of the prose portions in this series, I’m grateful that you found the interactions still seemed effective. I expect Lady Pantea will provide Buffy plenty of guidance to fine tune her natural talents going forward.

ghastley- You are right that Buffy’s projected image of a dragon (and her tempo, I might add) will need some adjusting by the pros to suit Skyrim audiences. Due to our sharp focus on developing Buffy’s musical gifts, we won’t be able to work any Bards College quests into this series. Great idea for later short stories however!

SubRosa- Thank you. I look forward to showing how, with plenty of help, Buffy develops some more depth to her abilities. Between you and me, Talsgar has probably (unknown to Buffy) seen and heard the elf singing while bathing in various rivers, ponds and waterfalls across Skyrim.

Grits- It is not easy to bring the verbose elf in with a low word count, but I really do want the actual songs to take center stage during this tale – your endorsement that my editing still retained what it needed to is very encouraging. That Flowing Bowl performance really was a good peek at the ‘end product’, whereas this series shows some of the sausage making required to get there – thanks for pointing that out!

mALX- Thank you for your kind words! I do agree that Buffy’s chipmunk nervousness did produce kind of a cute singing voice. She’ll need to settle down some for Skyrim audiences though.

DE- I consider you an authority when it comes to most of the Daedric Princes, so your encouraging words were most welcome. I agree that Sanguine is not so bad in his own way. And more songs ahead!

Renee- Thanks! How neat about Gabrielle and her barding! I say that because I confess some influence from Xena and Gabrielle when it comes to scenes involving the mighty Sir Mazoga and little blond Buffy.

*

A note on Buffy’s singing voice: While the amazing Enya often lends the haunting beauty of her voice to help power Buffy’s songs, this entire short series features the voice of a stunningly talented songstress called Malukah. Her voice was artificially accelerated during the above episode to achieve our intended ‘chipmunk’ effect. The remaining four songs, however, are not accelerated and I think you will readily agree that Malukah’s voice magnificently enables Buffy to project the passion she is capable of through song.

In the first episode (of five) in A Bard’s Tale, Buffy got dragged into trying to sing for two professional bards. Even as she was singing, she could see that they were not impressed.

As my song finished, Lisette’s valiant efforts to stifle a giggle were faltering into facial contortions. Lady Pantea’s eyebrows had traveled up and down her forehead reflecting surprise, curiosity and very possibly some dismay. My eyes went to my feet, regretting I had ever agreed to sing for someone other than my paladin.

It was Lady Pantea who spoke. “Buffy, that was. . . fascinating. Let us begin by discussing your voice. Every note was flawlessly in key. You allowed your nervousness, however, to run away with your tempo. I’m surprised Lisette’s fingers could keep up on the lute.”

“Too fast?” I said, looking up to meet her eyes.

“Like a little chipmunk.” Her face creased into a warm smile and she placed a hand comfortingly on my shoulder. “We can fix that though. If you pull your voice up from deep within instead of just from your mouth and throat, it will necessarily slow you down. At first, you will also find it helpful to consciously think about tempo as well as take your pacing from Lisette’s lute. Can you remember those things?”

In response to my nod, she continued, “As for your nervousness, take comfort that you are among friends here who want to help bring out the talent that both Lisette and I can clearly see. I have performed for kings, courts and festivals all across Skyrim for many years. I have also trained countless young voices. If and when I proclaim you ready for real audiences, you may rest assured that they will not find you lacking.”

I snuck a peek at Lisette to see her nodding encouragingly.

Pantea continued, “Now let’s talk about this amazing gift you have of projecting images via your voice. How much control do you have?”

“I have no say over the fact that my singing voice carries visions. What you see are reflections of what a song means to me and flashbacks of what I have seen in my travels. I do have some control over what memories I focus on.”

“I see,” said Pantea. “Do you understand that few share your interpretation of dragons? Most do not see them as creatures to peacefully frolic with in some idyllic meadow.”

I nodded. “I was at Helgen when it was destroyed.”

Pantea’s eyes widened. “Then you do understand the carnage they can bring and the terrifying feelings of helplessness that such nearly indestructible monsters inspire.”

I shuddered as I recalled exactly what Pantea was talking about. “I-I remember.”

“Buffy, that song serves to not only remind people of the horror and death that dragons bring, but to inspire them with hope that the gods have not abandoned them. That a hero will arise who is mighty enough to slay even dragons.” She squeezed both my hands and studied my face carefully. “Do you understand?”

“I believe I do, Lady Pantea.”

“Splendid!” She replied. “Let us try it again, ladies. Buffy, pull your voice up from down deep. Take your pacing from Lisette’s lute. Remember Helgen.”

Lisette began strumming through one verse to help set our tempo.

This time, I did not seek the comfort of Acadian’s beautiful ice dragaon, Phantom. Rather, I focused on the grim horror and carnage I knew that Alduin and his ilk were capable of.

As Lisette’s lute returned to the top of the melody, I began to sing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfB-9IGiHi4

Posted by: mirocu Apr 22 2016, 04:45 PM

Once again Buffy delivers! Such a nice song that inspires hope, even in the darkest of times

Posted by: Renee Apr 22 2016, 10:34 PM

Yeah, what Crow says about "darkest times". Because Skyrim is a darker game for sure.

I found the part when she sees visions as she sings especially intriguing. It's rather Sethian, as in "Seth Speaks", if you're familiar. A spirit who speaks through a medium, basically. And I remember there was a part when Seth speaks of music as being multi-dimensional and multi-faceted, and actually more than what we hear with our ears.

Well anyway, that is pretty neat, playing a bard, taking up the role of a bard. Lopov has had a bard too. I don't think I ever have.

Posted by: SubRosa Apr 23 2016, 02:00 AM

“Like a little chipmunk.”
Suddenly I am thinking her song sounded a little like https://youtu.be/whY9MKlvisI...

Buffy gave us a wonderfully haunting melody this time out.

I imagine that if Buffy ever learns to play the violin, it might sound like https://youtu.be/MOg8Cz9yfWg.

Posted by: Kazaera Apr 23 2016, 10:41 AM

Haha, the tempo! I can so see that happening. (I've definitely let my speed run away with me before in public speaking for the same reason).

I love Buffy being a bard, it suits her so well. And Lisette and Lady Pantea are really lovely in drawing her out past her shyness and feelings of inadequacy (don't worry, Buffy! We've all been there!) and getting her to the woman who sang at the Flowing Bowl earlier. What an intriguing ability she has, as well, and I really like how it works - she doesn't choose what to project, but she can choose what to focus on as she sings! I have to admit I can imagine some, ah, embarrassing moments if her mind jumps somewhere it shouldn't go as she sings...

Posted by: Lopov Apr 24 2016, 05:21 PM

I like that you write in such details beginnings of Buffy's bardic career. My favorite part of the latest tale is when Buffy's eyes widen upon hearing that it was a bit too fast, I could easily picture her doing that.

Neat song, and it does sound more calm, especially after listening to the previous one again.

Posted by: mALX Apr 27 2016, 11:52 PM

This was fantastic! I have never seen that trailer vid for Skyrim that Buffy conjured up with her song; that was amazing and really brought the Helgen attack to life!


When they were talking about not picturing dragons frolicking with Buffy in a field, I was reminded of this screen of a Buffy-ish blonde and her dragons frolicking in a field:


https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RHTw8BxU1fk/maxresdefault.jpg



But after hearing Buffy sing the song with the horror that was Helgen in the images she brought forth - much better!

Awesome chapter !!!


As you know, my 20 day free trial on the voice software has ended, so I've been using the online (one sentence at a time) one for Buffy's story. Tell Buffy I'm sorry it took so long to get it read! (Most def worth it though) !!!

Posted by: Grits Apr 28 2016, 05:58 PM

I have to confess, when Jerric hears Malukah’s voice in the ESO taverns, he thinks of Buffy.

What a powerful and haunting performance Buffy gave for her second rendition of the Dragonborn song. Only someone who has witnessed horror and believes in heroes could come up with images like that. Not only does Buffy have the rare gift to share what she imagines, but she is the rare soul who can be trusted to use it. Well done, Buffy!

Lady Pantea is just marvelous here. Love it!

Posted by: Acadian Apr 29 2016, 01:22 PM

mirocu- Aww, thanks. Things will get a little more challenging for Buffy now.

Renee- Thank you. Acadian has long been able to telepathically share images or even scenes with Buffy from her past. I figure he shares some of that ability with Buffy who augments it with her own illusion skill. That's our story, anyway.

SubRosa- Yes! Alvin and his furry little pals was what Buffy’s first effort reminded me of. And when you say her next effort was haunting, you once again nail our intent for that selection. Thank you.

Kazaera- I chuckled, for I have to agree with you about some of the embarrassing possibilities of projecting somewhat uncontrolled images could provide. Thanks also for recognizing the self-doubts that have always haunted Buffy.

Lopov- Thanks for mentioning that, despite our intentional brevity in the supporting prose portions of this tale, it seems that we have enough ‘details’ to help convey the personalities involved.

mALX- Thanks for your kind words as well as the spectacular moments you are sharing from Game of Thrones as you enjoy waatching it. What a beautiful picture you linked to from GoT! I want that game!

Grits- You always find the magic words to inspire both Buffy and I in our humble efforts. Thank you. I chuckled to hear you say that Jerric thinks of Buffy when Malukah sings in ESO. Poor Buffy thinks of Jerric everytime she sees a big blond bearded Nord - and since that describes nearly half the population in Skyrim, she manages to stay in nearly a constant state of fluster.

*

In the second episode (of five) in A Bard’s Tale, the efforts of Buffy’s singing mentors to slow her tempo and project a more sobering perspective of dragons proved successful as Buffy delivered a fine rendition of The Dragonborne Comes.

As Lisette lowered her lute, she smiled. “Simply beautiful. That is what I wanted Lady Pantea to see and hear.”

“Bravo, Buffy!” exclaimed Pantea. “You incorporated everything I suggested into an impressive performance.”

“Can I sing another song?” I asked excitedly.

“That’s the spirit,” replied Pantea. “Do you know Age of Aggression and Age of Oppression?” After I nodded, she continued. “The challenge with that song is convincingly portraying the Empire’s cause in some holds, then doing the same for the Stormcloaks in the territories they control.” She briefly glanced over her shoulder to ensure the recital chamber’s door was closed and lowered her voice. “Lisette supports the Legion and struggles with the Stormcloak version. In my travels, I’ve learned to successfully parlay my status as a performer into remaining neutral. Since it is not really possible to separate this song from the civil war, tell me your thoughts.”

“I cannot support either side," I began, "but my heart weeps over the futility of their cause. I trade freely with both Legion and Stormcloak camps, sometimes bringing them fresh venison to augment their meager rations. Some of them talk about family, home and even their fears.”

“Go on,” encouraged Pantea gently.

“I’ve had the misfortune of encountering their battles in progress – sometimes from much closer than I’d like as I quickly maneuver clear. To hear the battlecries of the Stormcloak front lines as they ferociously charge, with their massive two-handed weapons raised, into a disciplined and equally deadly wall of Legion shield and gladius is terrifying. All of this, while archers in the rear ranks of both sides relentlessly loose volley after lethal volley of piercing death. . . .”

A brief shudder ran through me before I continued, “On those occasions when I come across the blood-soaked ground and broken bodies marking the aftermath of such engagements, I bring my mare to a stop at the edge of the battlefield. I weep for the young men and women who may have grown up in the same village and perhaps played together as children. I think of brothers and sisters killing each other over the color of their surcoat. I imagine families grieving as they learn the grim news of what I see before me. So many young lives cut short. . . .” I conjured a handkerchief to dab my eyes. “And to what end? Cannot they see that only together do the two sides have any chance of stopping the Thalmor’s plans of conquest?”

“You have no shortage of passion, Buffy, that much is clear,” Pantea remarked soberly. “Can you understand and project some of the feelings that those who support the Empire have?”

“I had business with the court here in Solitude shortly after King Torygg’s death,” I said. “Having lost my own mate some time ago, I offered my condolences to Elisef the Fair. I believe my words touched her heart, for she treated me quite kindly. Both her steward and court mage eloquently explained some of the reasoning shared by those who favor a united Empire. I can try to focus on that, but I’m not entirely sure I can block my underlying emotions from seeping into the visions I project.” I took a deep breath. “Lisette, are you ready?”

The Nord lifted her lute and nodded. “Let’s begin.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9s7aL0JJ7wM

Posted by: mALX Apr 29 2016, 02:34 PM

Wow, what a powerful vid that was!

What I loved best about this chapter was how Buffy's compassion for the soldiers stayed neutral; how she is still after all these years using her hunting to feed the starving men at war, no matter whose side they are on. That is so Buffy!

I really liked how Buffy noted that these children that grew up playing side by side were now divided by the color or markings of their clothing.

Awesome Update !!!

Posted by: mirocu Apr 29 2016, 05:01 PM

The folly of war.

Family, friends, the fear of not coming home. Even in heated combat both sides have more in common than not. The leaders remain behind safe cover far away from the horrible slaughter but regardless who stay on top at the end, war has no real winners.

Because war, war never changes.

Posted by: SubRosa Apr 29 2016, 09:57 PM

I weep for the young men and women who may have grown up in the same village and perhaps played together as children.
Hadvar and Ralof always bring this to my mind. Both seem to be from Riverwood - each has family there at least - and doubtlessly they played together as kids. Yet now they are set against one another.

And another haunting tune to finish it off.

Posted by: Lopov May 2 2016, 08:03 PM

I enjoyed reading Buffy's views of the war, when Pantea asked her which side she supports, I expected her to stay neutral yet finding the reason behind their battle to be futile as only unity can lead to changes.

I agree with mALX; that video is really powerful and wow, how well done. Buffy singing in the background made it even more believable.

Posted by: Darkness Eternal May 5 2016, 10:35 PM

We begin with analyzing Buffy's singing abilities. Her vocal talents are known as well as her chipmunky voice, hehe. Lady Pantea performing for a wide array of people from all walks of life tells me Buffy can trust her judgement and whatever lesson she has to offer.

A nice song, that one. I agree with Mr.Crow and Renee. While Skyrim is most certainly a dark place, in a dark time . . . Buffy's inspirational music ignites hope and promise of better days.

Besides . . . how bad can Skyrim be when Buffy is present?






Contrast to the previous chapter, Buffy is already praised by her wondrous performance by both Lady Pantea and Lisette. This here caught my attention.



I don't think I have ever met someone in Skyrim who remains neutral to the cause. There probably are people around but I can sympathize with Buffy here. In a time of war, some venison, mead and soup and wonderful memories of family is all a man needs. Thank the gods for Buffy.

What Buffy mentioned about the children growing together, as mALX and Subrosa said, rings so true. Sadly, I believe the only time for fellowship for these young ones grown up is Sovngarde . . . when it beckons, every one of them dies. Sadly. This was a fantastic chapter, Acadian and the music is so great!! Powerful video!

Posted by: Grits May 6 2016, 04:17 AM

I think Buffy would find that Vilkas, though in most ways the complete opposite of Buffy, shares her views on the war.

Buffy’s thoughts about opposing soldiers who grew up playing together and the sadness of bereaved families regardless of what side they are on made me think of lots of folks across Skyrim, but they mostly made me think of Buffy and how she really gets to know people. She is so empathetic, all of that heartbreak must take a toll on her. What a beautiful outlet for her to express a small part of that emotion.

I liked that Falk Firebeard’s and Jarl Elisif’s calm reason inspired Buffy when she sang in support of the Empire. They both talk about unity and peace. I also liked that the song’s feeling was overall loss and sadness rather than the rousing call to arms that the lyrics suggest. Buffy performed without glorifying what she sees as a waste of lives, and so stayed true to herself.

Pantea and Lisette are delightful to watch as they gently coach and coax Buffy to develop her gifts into mad bardic skillz.

Posted by: Acadian May 6 2016, 03:14 PM

mALX- Thank you! You know Buffy well, my friend, when it comes to sharing fresh venison with the soldiers of both sides.

mirocu- Thanks! Buffy does believe there are times when war is necessary, but Skyrim’s tragic civil war is not one of them.

SubRosa- Hadvar and Ralof were exactly who we were thinking of when Buffy talked about likely childhood friends now on opposite sides of this civil war. Thanks!

Lopov- Thank you! In this next episode, Buffy will talk a bit more about the war even as she tries to come to terms with trying to make her rendition less depressingly graphic.

DE- Thank you for your kind and encouraging words. I do believe Bethesda did a pretty good job in presenting the civil war in uncomfortable shades of gray.

Grits- I know what you mean about Vilkas’ views on the war. Thanks for endorsing Buffy’s own brand of empathy – you know her well. Toning down the sadness in favor of at least a little hope will be Buffy’s next challenge.

*

In the third episode (of five) in A Bard’s Tale, Buffy faced two challenges as she prepared to sing Age of Aggression. The first was a neutral elf attempting to convey support for the Empire; on that count it seems she was successful. Her second challenge was trying to control her own passionate feelings about the horrors, carnage and futility of Skyrim’s civil war, lest they overwhelm the images she projected; not surprisingly, the emotional elf fell short here. . . .

By the time I finished singing Age of Aggression, all three of us had tears in our eyes.

As Lisette lowered her lute, she said, “By the gods, Buffy. That was beautifully sung, but so much. . . carnage. I’ve never seen a real battle. . . I had no idea the level of brutality.”

I swallowed hard. “Now you see why this war breaks my heart. Each of those valiant young soldiers, regardless of uniform, believed they were fighting for a just cause.”

“Lisette’s words are true enough,” said Pantea. “Your rendition is, frankly, too depressing. A bard’s job is to inspire, not to engender hopelessness.”

“Inspire?” I repeated. “To encourage the Stormcloaks and Legion to kill each other simply delivers this beautiful land to the Thalmor who would doubtless purge it of any surviving humans.” I thumped a small fist against my chest. “Even an elf can see that; why cannot the Emperor and Ulfric Stormcloak?”

“The only ones who might benefit from emphasizing the blood and tragedy that you have shown us are those decision-makers who send young soldiers to war – and you will not find them in your typical tavern audience.” Pantea lowered her lifted eyebrow and softened her face. “We sing for those who grieve their dead or fear for loved ones in harm’s way. Your voice and images can provide comfort that the cause they sacrifice for is not in vain. The blood and tears their families have left on the battlefield is worthy of the honor your song can bring them. While that honor may be an illusion, the comfort it brings is not.” She studied my face.

I tilted my head. “I think I understand. . . but I’ll have to think on this before trying again.”

“Agreed,” said Pantea. “You have worked your voice, heart and emotions more than enough for today. I’m going to challenge you with an assignment, however.”

“I-I’ll try my best,” I said.

“Very well. Have Lisette introduce you to our Dean of Lute who will issue you an instrument and begin lessons. With time, you will be able to provide your own accompaniment. After some initial training, you will be able to practice on your own during your trip.”

“Trip?” I repeated. Don’t tell me she wants some dusty relic fetched from a troll-infested cave somewhere. . . .

“Your trip to Windhelm. I’d like you to gain some understanding of what motivates Jarl Ulfric and his Stormcloaks."

* *

“Welcome back, Buffy!” Pantea greeted me warmly. “I hope your pilgrimage was productive?” Without waiting for an answer, she sent word for tea and led me upstairs where we found Lisette practicing in the recital room.

After Lisette and I exchanged hugs, we all sat down to catch up as tea arrived.

“Tell me, Buffy, what are your impressions of Ulfric Stormcloak?” asked Pantea.

I let out a long breath. “I do have a better understanding of the complex man now. His charisma could charm an ice troll. Part of me – a very small part, mind you – was drawn to follow him into battle or even his bed. Another, much bigger part of me wanted to take a hot bath after listening to him in order to wash off the. . . oiliness that oozed from his words. His loyalty to the Stormcloaks and their cause knows no bounds, while his treatment of elves and other non-Nords is contemptible. And there is no doubt that he loves Skyrim more than life itself. He is both mesmerizing and disconcerting - the most confusing set of contradictions I’ve ever met.”

“From what I have seen during my few performances at his palace,” confessed Pantea, “I rather agree. More importantly, can you now understand the mind of a Stormcloak well enough to perform their song with passion?”

“I believe so,” I replied. “I’ve also spent much time pondering the wisdom of your words that I should try to focus more on inspiring my audience and less on the. . . grittier aspects of the war.”

“I look forward to hearing, feeling and seeing what you have learned,” said Pantea as she set her cup on the table and stood. As Lisette and I did likewise, Pantea added, “Lisette, I know that Age of Oppression is. . . a difficult song for you, but do you think you could accompany Buffy with your lute for us?”

“I do realize that it just a song, Lady Pantea, albeit one that praises the disgusting likes of a treasonous killer of kings. That said, I also realize that you are trying to expand Buffy’s ability to convincingly represent either side in song – a feat I will never achieve.” Lisette then picked up her lute and turned to me. “I will be pleased to accompany you, my friend.”

“Splendid!” proclaimed Pantea. “Now a word of discretion. Performing Age of Oppression in holds sympathetic to the Empire may be viewed as treading close to treason.” She closed the double doors to the recital room. “Ladies, you may begin when ready.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3HBazqW9Vc (song ends at 2:40)

Posted by: SubRosa May 6 2016, 06:33 PM

Don’t tell me she wants some dusty relic fetched from a troll-infested cave somewhere. . . .
If this was in the game she would! That is what all musicians do after all...

Now Buffy is ready to sing for Imps and Cloaks alike. DE hit is on the head when he said that the only fellowship most will find with another is in Sovngarde. But depending on how you look on it, that is not necessarily a bad thing. A few years of strife on Nirn balanced against an eternity of drinking, dancing, and fighting in Viking paradise. What more could a Nord ask for?

Posted by: mALX May 7 2016, 08:44 PM

Aw, you skipped the blow by blow when she met Ulfric, all we got was a summary! Buffy's description of Ulfric exactly matched Maxical's take on him - he hates Khajiit too, yet needed her services to win his wars for him.

Very interesting that they had to be careful of being charged with treason for singing that song; that statement set the civil war in my mind a lot stronger than the game ever did.

The vid = really loved how they had Ulfric's voice talking in the background of it, that was really effective! But more than anything, Malukah is one of my favorite singers; she is AWESOME !!!!!!

Buffy doesn't need all these lessons though; because she is at her best when her own heart is shining through in her songs!

Awesome chapter !!!

Posted by: mirocu May 7 2016, 09:10 PM

I know not who this leader of the Stormcloaks is, but I do know that Buffy this time was much better to display the message that even when it seems as the darkness will stay forever, sunrise is only moments away..



*sniff*

Posted by: Lopov May 9 2016, 06:45 PM

"His charisma could charm an ice troll" is a perfect description of Ulfric and his way of talking. Nicely done, Buffy, I actually like it that you skipped the part with meeting Ulfric in person because it was interesting to read about him through Buffy's eyes without him being present. While she probably kept most of her thoughts to herself while being a guest in the Palace of Kings, she could talk openly (but with closed doors) to Pantea and Lisette.

Another neat song to conclude the story, though I noticed that whichever facial mod the author was using, made Ulfric look almost too young for his deep voice.

Posted by: ghastley May 9 2016, 07:01 PM

Buffy just has to think "the other side is flawed" when she performs the two "Age of" songs. That's true in each case.

Her description of Ulfric makes me think he's partly Nibenean.

Posted by: Renee May 10 2016, 12:14 AM

Ha, this is awesome...

In general, it's lovely how Buffy's just trying to sing a song, but winds up in a political debate.




Oh no no no, don't do that!

Posted by: Grits May 12 2016, 08:22 PM

Gosh, Pantea really shines here as she guides budding bard Buffy.

Mesmerizing and disconcerting is a fantastic description of Jarl Ulfric. I like how some of his most compelling (and manipulative) lines ran through the performance.

My favorite moment was Buffy’s chest-thump. I wish Jarl Ulfric could have seen that passion and conviction. Buffy’s dusty relic line made me chuckle.

This Buffy story is a delight, I am so happy to read every installment!

Posted by: Acadian May 13 2016, 01:59 PM

SubRosa- Heh, I couldn’t resist the reference to the Bards College quests that are all fetch and no sing! Thank you.

mALX- Thanks! I’m really trying to keep the prose parts very small so the focus remains on the songs. That’s why we only provided just a snip of Buffy’s Ulfric impressions. I very much agree about how talented Malukah is.

mirocu- Thank you for sticking with us, even though Skyrim’s civil war is somewhat unfamiliar to you. If you ever decide to tolerate Steam, the next song/vid does a wonderful job of showcasing Skyrim.

Lopov- I’m glad Buffy’s impression of Ulfic seemed to match your own. I’m sure you’re right that Buffy kept her opinions to herself while in Windhelm! Thanks!

ghastley- Thank you. You really hit the nail on the head regarding the civil war factions. Both have sound points and serious flaws and I think BethSoft did a good job portraying that.

Renee- How right you are! Buffy just wants to sing and adventure, not get civil war all over her. Yet, she does have strong passions and a big mouth. No worries about Ulfric – I’m sure he’d rather sleep with his horse than a wood elf.

Grits- Thank you! I’m so glad that my brevity didn’t shortchange Pantea. I couldn’t resist the irony of an elf seeing that the only path to a free Skyrim is for the humans to unite against the elven Thalmor.

*

In the last episode, Buffy sang ‘Age of Oppression’ and managed to convey quite a bit of what motivates the Stormcloaks.

We now present the final song of A Bard’s Tale.

As I finished singing, Pantea nodded soberly. “Superbly done, Buffy. You convey little doubt that Ulfic and his Stormcloaks are devoted to both Skyrim and their cause. Congratulations on the amazing progress you’ve made.”

“Thank you both,” I said. “I so appreciate you helping me to improve and gain confidence singing to others.” I then managed a crooked smile. “So am I a bard now?”

“Not quite, little one,” Pantea replied, “but the Dean of Lute informs me that your progress with her has also been excellent.”

“I’m a mystic archer and, fortunately, my ability with a bowstring seems to translate to the strings of a lute quite readily.”

Pantea nodded. “Good. You will need it for your final exercise.”

“Final exercise?” I repeated.

“Yes, one that I hope you will enjoy. Buffy, I want you to now incorporate all you have learned and create an original song – one to inspire listeners and that reflects the wild magnificence of Skyrim. And you are to provide your own lute accompaniment. When you think you’re ready, you will audition for me. If I deem you prepared, you will then perform your song before an evening audience at the Winking Skeever.”

*

It was two weeks of hard work, sore fingers, countless drafts and several unsatisfactory auditions before the demanding Lady Pantea pronounced me ‘fit for public consumption’.

*

“Ladies and gentlemen,” began Lisette, “it is my honor to introduce the College of Bards’ newest songbird. Please welcome my lovely friend, Buffy.” She then sat down to join the audience.

The Skeever was generally receptive to bards and I was encouraged by applause as, with lute in hand, I made my way to the performing area.

“Thank you for that kind welcome.” There were now over a score of silent faces focused upon me, watching and waiting to see if I could deliver on Lisette’s promise. I felt the tendrils of uncertainty and self-doubt begin to wrap themselves around me. All this ‘newest songbird’ wanted to do at the moment was to fly away. I gulped.

Sensing my nervousness, it was Acadian who silently recited Lady Pantea’s words back to me, ’If and when I proclaim you ready for real audiences, you may rest assured that they will not find you lacking.’

The paladin was able to dispel enough of my fears for me to continue. “I am told that I have a gift for conveying images, impressions and memories via my singing voice.” I took a deep breath as I remembered my lessons on delivery tempo and not letting nerves spill my words too quickly. “The song I’ve prepared for you is a tribute to this ruggedly majestic and violent land we share. Since it is not possible to separate Skyrim from those of us who call it home, my song also features a woman I’ve had the privilege to travel with on several occasions. She is called the Lioness, for she epitomizes the untamable grace and power that characterize the very soul of Skyrim.”

After a few moments of introducing the melody by lute, I lifted my voice in song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BF8ic5AQeh0 (Video is 4:48, but song ends at 3:30)

Posted by: SubRosa May 13 2016, 02:15 PM

Yay! Now we can publically consume Buffy! Oops, that came out sounding a little creepy. Get back to the Wasteland Loviatar! No one to eat here!

Buffy overcame her natural stage fright and delivered us a wonderful lullaby to the often cruel majesty that is Skyrim.

Posted by: hazmick May 13 2016, 02:56 PM

So Buffy has Pantea's seal of approval and is fit to be consumed by the public? Quite the achievement.

Looking forward to see where (and when) Buffy takes us next.

Posted by: mirocu May 13 2016, 04:01 PM

@Acadian - By the images portrayed by Buffy´s voice I have no doubt that Skyrim is a fantastic place. Alas, I have both my heart and my character in Cyrodiil and if I want to watch the beauty of Skyrim, I need only to look outside my window..


@Buffy - Your talent is nothing short of amazing. You have a wonderful voice and an ability few can match that perfectly accompanies your talent with the lute. If you want my advice, venture forth on this road upon which you have embarked. I would not want to deny Tamriel of such beauty and joy

Posted by: ghastley May 13 2016, 05:30 PM

It took me several minutes to connect "the Lioness" to Mjoll.

Those would certainly make a balanced team, covering each other's skill gaps, as long as Mjoll knows not to get in between Buffy and her target.

I found the video was a bit heavy on the sound effects, and they drowned out the voice. I'll have to google for a version without, but that will probably mean no video.

Posted by: mALX May 13 2016, 08:37 PM

Buffy already worked her fingers to the bone writing that song and practicing it, nothing left to eat her at all!


@ Acadian - What a nice chapter this was! I did love Buffy's song, but would not have chosen to watch that vid while eating had I known in advance she was using the "Bloody Mess" mod in her vision-projection!

Now I can't wait to see what is next for Miss Buffy!!!

Posted by: Renee May 14 2016, 07:35 PM

Awesome! Glad to see she's conquered the guild of bards. *claps*

Posted by: Lopov May 16 2016, 03:28 PM

A satisfying ending to the Bard's Tale, culminating in Buffy's first song to be performed publicly. Lioness definitely deserves her place in the song. Well done, Buffy the bard!

Posted by: Darkness Eternal May 17 2016, 11:56 PM

A Bard’s Tale – Part 4


Criticism is met with a bit of truth here. I love what Buffy said about the brutality of this war.

You know, I did imagine she would have to go to a dusty cavern for some old tome or something. What was a surprisingly brief trip meant great results. She met Mr. Stormcloak, drawn to him in a small but significant enough way to uh . . . oh my.


There was a duality there when learning about the Stormcloaks. Buffy doesn't just sing but she goes in there to get inspiration for her work, the way many artists, singers and writers do. I love it!

A Bard’s Tale – Part 5

Bahaha. After all is said and done, here comes the original. "Am I done yet?"

Not quite as a final task is placed in order. I can say that the song captured me as it surely captured the crowd. Buffy, Songbird of Skyrim, Mystic Archer, Bowgirl!

Posted by: Grits May 18 2016, 03:23 AM

Ooo, I was hoping for The Beauty of Dawn! Yay, that is perfect for Buffy! “Loyal hearts we’ll stand as one, and fight with shields of hope.” I loved seeing that song set to visions of Skyrim.

Buffy’s words about the Lioness were as lyrical as her song. Lady Pantea’s seal of approval is well-deserved.

I have enjoyed every bit of A Bard’s Tale. Congratulations to Skyrim’s newest and loveliest songbird!

Posted by: Acadian May 20 2016, 01:31 PM

SubRosa- Thanks! You bring up the interesting prospect of Loviatar visiting Skyrim. . . I’m sure she’d get on well with Persephone and the Darryl brothers.

hazmick- Heh, it was Pantea’s ‘seal of approval’ that gave Buffy just that extra bit of confidence she needed. Thank you!

mirocu- Long may Lothran roam in Cyrodiil, my friend. Please forgive me when my Skythusiasm gets too pushy. Aww, thanks for your kind words to the new songbird.

ghastley- Thanks! Buffy and Mjoll do work well together. Of course it requires a mod addressing her motormouth and another to tweak her stealth. I did like the vid, but you’re right in that it was pretty busy and had lots of sound effects.

mALX- Thank you! Most of the supporting vids I had to choose from did not spare the gore. Thankfully, they showed quite a bit of Skyrim’s beauty as well.

Renee- Thanks! Buffy sometimes plays a song or two when she stays at some of the taverns.

Lopov- Buffy’s always been in awe of women who can do what she can never aspire to. In Cyrodiil, it was Sir Mazoga. In Skyrim it is Mjoll the Lioness who epitomize this. I’m sure if she ever met the Warrior Princess Xena, she’d feel the same about her. Thank you!

DE- Thanks for your warm support. Yes, I don’t think Buffy could have sang for either the red or blue coats without first taking the time to understand the passion they feel for their respective causes.

Grits- Beauty of Dawn had me right at the title since Buffy is literally a Child of Dawn. Buffy is inspired by Mjoll in much the same way she was by Mazoga. I confess the woman in that song also reminded me of your own Jensa, whose stories I quietly follow over on the other forum. Thank you!

*

Our next story finds Buffy in the Riften area of Fourth Era Skyrim. She takes on a relatively straightforward fictitious quest involving a dungeon crawl. The tale will require two episodes.

“I was sent by the College of Winterhold in response to a message regarding Wylandriah. How’d you manage to lose your court mage?”

“Thank you for coming,” replied the Altmer who towered over me. “We’ve never been introduced, but I’ve seen you here in Mistveil Keep on several occasions conducting business with Wylandriah. I’m Anuriel, steward to Jarl Laila.”

“Pleased to meet you. I’m Buffy.” I accepted her offered hand in greeting. “Your message said the matter was urgent, but provided few details. I know Wylandriah can be. . . absent minded. Did she perhaps just wander off somewhere or get lost searching the nearby forest for spiders or ingredients?”

“That’s what we thought at first also,” Anuriel replied as she handed me a small scroll that was smudged with dirt, “until we got this.”

I unrolled then read the parchment. “Kidnapped! And the brigands want a large sum of gold for her return.”

Anuriel nodded. “Wylandriah’s abductors overestimate the depth of Riften’s coffers. More importantly, however, the Jarl is loath to meet their demands for concern that should we pay a ransom it would only encourage more kidnappings. Rather, she wants the fetchers’ heads on pikes outside our gates as warning to others. While our own guard force is doubtless capable of defeating them, recovering Wylandriah alive would likely prove problematic. Even more vexing is that we have no idea where she’s being held.” The Altmer looked hopefully at me.

“I have some experience in such matters,” I said. “I believe I can help.”

“The resources of Riften are at your disposal. How many soldiers and what supplies do you require?”

“For now,” I replied, “all I need is an item of Wylandriah’s to help me divine her location. Something she has recently held or worn and, ideally, of some significance to her.”

“Hmm.” Anuriel laid a pensive finger aside her cheek as her eyes studied the intricately carved ceiling art. After a moment, her gaze swept down to meet mine and she announced, “I think I know just the thing. Follow me.”

After leading me into Wylandriah’s quarters, Anuriel produced a gold and ruby amulet from the mage’s jewelry box. “I believe this was her mother’s. She often wears it to dinner here in the Keep.”

I closed my fingers around the pendant and my fist glowed briefly. “This should work fine. I’ve set Wylandriah’s essence to my clairvoyance spell.”

“Well cast it and tell me where she is,” instructed the steward anxiously.

“It doesn’t work that way.” I stepped back out into the great hall with Anuriel in tow, then filled one fist with magic. As I opened my fingers a pale blue cloud lazily swirled out from my palm, snaking a path to the main doors. I stopped the flow of magic, allowing the trail to fade. “That’s how it works. All it can tell us in here is that Wylandriah's not in Mistveil Keep, which I’m sure is no surprise. I may need to use the spell in town a couple times to determine if she’s beyond the city’s walls. Hopefully, the next time you see me, Wylandriah will be at my side.” Before I turned to leave, I added, “I’ll then be able to inform your guards where they may harvest her captors’ heads.”

*

My clairvoyance spell had led me to the kidnappers’ lair, less than half a day south of Riften. According to my doeskin map, it was called Broken Helm Hollow.

Perched on a boulder and relying on plenty of distance and overhanging branches to avoid detection, my eyes followed a mountain trail as it led up to a ledge. An arch-shaped opening among the rocks had been framed and closed off by a sturdy-looking door. A waterfall fell very close to the entrance as it sparkled, sprayed and plummeted from several hundred feet above to awaiting boulders an equal distance below. The area was guarded by a pair of brigands.

Releasing a fistful of magic, Slayer quickly materialized in my left hand. The bow’s quiver settled comfortably against my back. With an arrow nocked, my fingers addressed the silk bowstring. The large weapon provided the strength I lacked to manage its heavy draw as the staff relaxed its graceful recurve, bending until the arrow’s fletching rested against my cheek. With Slayer doing most of the work, I held full draw and focused on the target area until it snapped into greatly magnified view.

I could see now that one guard was clad in fur and armed with bow and dagger. His comrade wore tattered leathers and a mace rode at one hip. Patience, Buffy.

Sure enough, ‘mace’ stepped over to the nearby waterfall to fill a waterskin.

I loosed. A moment later, his archer companion was slammed into the wall of rock surrounding the cave’s door and crumpled to the ground.

‘Mace’ ran over and knelt by the body as I nocked my second arrow. After a cursory inspection, he stood, drew his weapon and began scanning my general direction for a sniper.

My arrow tore through his leather breast plate, pierced his heart and carried his corpse several feet back into the rocks behind him.

I slipped down from my perch, made my way to the cave’s entrance and searched the corpses. My efforts to ensure neither had been lost over the nearby ledge into the waterfall were in vain, for I found no clues that would help my quest to safely recover Wylandriah.

I quenched my thirst from the waterfall then crouched into stealth. Both feet gently blossomed with blue magic, surrounding me with a continuous subtle aura that would greatly subdue any light and noise I emitted – but only from those hostile to me.

I slipped through the cave’s door into the den of the kidnappers.

Posted by: ghastley May 20 2016, 03:46 PM

I like the way you make some sense of the Clairvoyance spell. Not one I use often, but it is at least more realistic than the quest arrow on the map!

Clark's story didn't say where they took Wylandriah, but it was a Companions rescue quest that gave me the idea for her part in his tale, and that was W in BH, too! I hope she doesn't find the whole team in there!

Posted by: mirocu May 20 2016, 04:20 PM

Ah, very interesting spell Buffy has. Wouldn´t mind it myself when I can´t find things I have misplaced



Be careful, Buffy. Failure comes to those who expect to always succeed. Then again, I know you are not arrogant enough to let that happen

Posted by: hazmick May 20 2016, 05:59 PM

Ooh a rescue mission! I like the way you used the Clairvoyance spell, and the muffling spell at the end will no doubt come in handy.

Posted by: SubRosa May 20 2016, 11:57 PM

The Jarl of Riften misplaced Wylandriah? I have to admit, I was thinking the same thing as Buffy at first. She might be looking for those spiders she mislaid...

A nice description of the game's Clairvoyance spell, along with an excellent way of making it make sense.

Two shots, two kills. Hecate approves Buffy's sniper ethics.

Posted by: Renee May 22 2016, 12:43 AM

I like the way this works...

And also the part when she draws the silk bowstring. That whole part when she's nocking the arrow .. I didn't know preparing a weapon could sound so elegant!

Posted by: mALX May 22 2016, 07:02 PM

I didn't remember the Clairvoyance spell, and never used it so didn't know how it worked! That is so cool, this makes me want to fire up Skyrim and try out that spell!

I don't know if that "Divining" is in the game or not, but it makes sense that a mystic mage might have a kind of ESP like that; what a nice touch!

Buffy the Sniper!!!

This reminded me of something Grits was talkikng about a while back; about a random quest that popped up saying one of her NPC's she added (either Jerric; Darnand; or Abiene - can't remember which) was kidnapped.

I got a kick out of the city coffers dialogue, lol. Awesome Write!

Posted by: Lopov May 23 2016, 04:16 PM

Now that a Bard's Tale is concluded, writing about something more action-paced is definitely a wise move. As mentioned before, you incorporated a clairvoyance spell in this story in a clever way. A lot of effort was put into Buffy "slaying" bandits outside the lair, which is my favorite part. Looking forward to her trip to the cave.

Posted by: Grits May 24 2016, 11:05 PM

Aw, thank you, Jensa still has a piece of my heart.

It’s a good thing Wylandriah’s kidnappers sent a ransom note, or everyone would have thought she was off with her spiders. How many soldiers does she require, ha! Buffy is the perfect deadly infiltrator for the rescue.

Anuriel’s mannerisms from our Buffy’s-eye view emphasized the high in High Elf, that was really neat.

I love the way Buffy showed her bow and Muffle spells working but earlier explained Clairvoyance to Anuriel. Both ways provided the explanation right in the flow of her story, beautiful. The sneaky sniper action is awesome, and no doors were kicked in during the making of this story. I’m looking forward to Part 2!

Posted by: Acadian May 27 2016, 02:09 PM

ghastley- Thanks! I do like the clairvoyance spell as it feels all ‘mystic-like’. I loved Clark’s rescue of Wylandriah recently in your fic thread!

mirocu- Thank you. You’ve really hit the nail on the head with your concern that things are going so well. When Buffy is ‘in control’ of the situation, has plenty of range and stealth on her side and things go according to her plan, she can be pretty lethal. When any of that begins to unravel, she can get into trouble very quickly.

hazmick- Thank you. As a stealthy mage, we pretend that muffle particularly cuts down on the noise and flash of magic use. We also pretend it has ‘friend or foe’ divination built in so that foes have trouble seeing her magicks when muffle’s active but allies see (to avoid hitting/shooting) her just fine (as well as explaining why her stealthy screenshots have quite a bit of flash/color to them – lol).

SubRosa- Wylandriah is a gem in her delightful absent-mindedness. Thanks for your kind words on how Buffy used clairvoyance. Yay, Hecate approves!

Renee- By describing Buffy’s use of her bow as elegant, you have stolen my heart! That’s exactly how I think of her tactics – but only as long as everything is going according to her plans.

mALX- Divination was a whole school of magic in Dungeons and Dragons; I use it as a more generic term to include her detect life/dead spells etc. Although this quest is purely fictitious, it is very similar to radiant quests that can be assigned by either the Companions or the Dawnguard. Thank you!

Lopov- Thanks! Buffy is a methodical planner and patient stalker. It suits her as a sniper - and is kind of necessary because she is both frail and easily flustered when panicked or things begin to go awry. My thinking is the same as yours; after so much singing and such, I felt a dungeon crawl was in order.

Grits- I know I’ve told you many times, but the way you hone in on things that I hope come through, and your warm encouragement are magical in their ability to inspire Buffy and I. Thank you so much.

*

In our last episode, Buffy had accepted a quest to try and rescue Riften’s kidnapped court mage. She learned Wylandriah was being held in a nearby cave and managed to dispatch the outside guards before slipping into the kidnappers’ lair.

Now, the conclusion of this short story.

Once inside, I slipped partially into a Bosmer-sized crevice near the entrance. All senses were heightened as I allowed my eyes to adjust from the brilliant sunshine outside. Water dripped faintly. A rat squeaked in the distance. The mild scent of smoke carried in the cool still air. Light from the burning wick of a tallow-filled goat horn sconce was visible farther down the stony corridor ahead.

Slayer required a slight magicka drain to sustain its presence. Though less than my regeneration rate, it was enough to preclude casting other spells while the bow was summoned. I allowed the weapon to dispel.

One hand emitted detection magic for a few seconds, allowing me to note the distant red glow of what appeared to be a sleeping bandit to the left of and above where the corridor seemed to go.

Creeping forward, I stopped at the edge of the sconce’s circle of light to check foe locations again. The sleeping bandit had not moved, but two more red glows now appeared. These newly revealed foes appeared to be seated on the ground near each other.

As I passed the light source, a handful of frosty mist extinguished its small flame. I then continued deeper into the cave, magically pulsing the air every few steps to update foe locations. Ahead, I could see the corridor opening into a dimly lit cavern.

Upon reaching the stone chamber’s threshold, a fresh check for inhabitants now revealed my objective. Well beyond the three kidnappers was the seated blue glow of a non-hostile figure – likely Wylandriah tied to a chair.

I pulled the rocky walls closer and ghosted along the perimeter just far enough into the chamber to evaluate its interior. It was a medium-sized cavern, poorly lit by a campfire that hosted two of the kidnappers. The pair sat cross-legged, passing a bottle of mead between them. I could make out some of their words.

“This waitin’s gittin’ real old.”

“I figgers the gold’ll be worth it.”

“What if them snowberries in Riften don’t pay up to git their wizard back?”

“Gro-Balzer says if they don’t, we can have some fun with her afore he returns what’s left.”

Near them was a natural ramp that led up to a ledge. I couldn’t see up there but imagined that to be where the third brigand was sleeping. Looking beyond the campfire in the direction where I had seen Wylandriah’s glow was a rock wall. I smiled as my eyes fell upon a pull chain.

I then selected a firing position that afforded the maximum range this cavern allowed and a clear view of both fireside bandits, as well as the secret door hiding Wylandriah.

Optimizing stone and shadow, I patiently crept into position. Mentally rehearsing my intended actions, I tried to think through what could go wrong and how I would respond. Satisfied, I conjured Slayer, fitted an arrow to its bowstring and drew.

I loosed, grateful that the bow also controlled its recovery – ensuring a nearly silent hiss instead of a loud bowstring snap upon shooting. As my first arrow slammed into its target, the bandit was carried several feet back. His nearby comrade leaped to his feet and stared at the body as my fingers snaked a second arrow from my quiver and nocked it to begin Slayer’s draw again. After a moment, he turned and shouted, “Wake up, boss! Looks like we gots a cutthroat in our-.”

His final words were silenced by my second arrow, even as I was reaching for my third.

“What in the name of Malacath’s goin’ on down there?!?” The booming voice, reference to Malacath and distinctive clatter of heavy armor confirmed a great deal about the threat – presumably Gro-Balzer the ringleader - charging down the natural ramp before I could see him.

Halfway down, the orc surprised me by leaping over the edge and landing heavily near the campfire. As he briefly paused to glance at the two corpses, I loosed - grateful that Slayer’s magic could pierce the stoutest of armors. A heartbeat later, my arrow deeply penetrated the orc’s breastplate.

My first experience with a charging orc long ago had thoroughly terrified me - as had every such encounter since. Indeed, terror is exactly what gripped me as the orc remained on his feet after Slayer’s attack which would have killed a lesser foe. He stared down at the wound to his chest for a moment, then lifted his gaze to search for its source. His eyes swept across my hiding spot, then snapped back to lock with mine!

Cursing myself for allowing surprise and fear to distract me, one hand frantically shot over a shoulder into my quiver.

I was nocking my arrow when the orc raised a sword larger than I and charged.

Knowing how quickly an angry orc could devour distance, I aborted my partially-drawn shot. Bow, arrow and quiver evaporated as both hands filled with magic. By the time my paralysis spell was in the air, the speeding monster was nearly upon me. His mass filled my vision as the spell’s green aura blossomed. I dove to the side, narrowly avoiding being driven into the wall behind me by the momentum of the now paralyzed orc.

I rolled to my feet and summoned Slayer, even as the clatter of armor colliding with rock was still echoing in my long ears. I figured I had time for two, perhaps three, shots before the orc could move again. He jerked solidly as my arrow pierced his backplate. My next arrow thudded into a corpse, yet I frantically nocked and began drawing another.

“He’s dead, Buffy,” said Acadian gently. “You can stop shooting now.”

I severed magic to Slayer mid-draw. My empty hands then began to shake as I stared at the dead orc.

Safe for the moment, I sat down before my unsteady limbs no longer allowed me to stand. My heart was racing.

“That monster was nearly four times your size, Buffy. You have once again displayed the courage of a dragon.”

“He almost crumpled me like a butterfly, Acadian. I was terrified.”

“Courage is not the absence of fear; rather, it is action in the presence of fear.”

“I remember, my paladin.” One hand snaked downward and, after a moment, I reported, “At least I didn’t pee myself this time.” After Acadian chuckled, I added, “C’mon, we’ve got a mage to rescue.”

I got to my feet, dusted off my buckskins and headed for the far end of the cavern. As I activated the pull chain, a portion of the rock wall groaned and scraped aside. “Wylandriah? It’s Buffy.”

From the small compartment ahead, I heard her familiar voice, “Did we have an appointment? No. . . was it a delivery? I can't remember."

“It was the latter,” I replied. “I’m here to deliver you back to Mistveil Keep.” I summoned my hunting knife and cut the leather lashing that held her to the chair. It took an unlocking spell to open the null iron wrist manacles that prevented her from spellcasting. “Let’s get you home, Wylandriah.” She followed closely as I began to lead her out of the cave.

“Now where did I put those spiders?"

I smiled. “We’ll keep an eye out for fresh ones on the way back to Riften.”

"I have to remember. . . ward first, then summon."

“Sound advice, as ever, my friend.”

Posted by: Darkness Eternal May 27 2016, 03:31 PM

Winterhold . . . cold, cold place. And looks like ransom is still a thing in Skyrim . . .

I like how Buffy uses magic to be able to track down. The Wylandriah's essence in the amulet was a very good touch with the Clairvoyance spell. Wow. Never thought of that. Like Ghastly said, it is much more realistic than an arrow on the map, and takes less time than tracking someone, say, by prints or smell . . .

Buffy's marksman skills shine here, and she's a good shot. I was waiting to read about some action, and she did not dissapoint. Now that the outside force was taken care of, we all wait eagerly to discover what is within the kidnappers' lair.

The Case of the Missing Court Mage – Part 2

Slayer. Love that name. Straight to the point, huh.

So, again she takes out to unlucky and fated bandits. First the ignorant one, and then his knuckle-headed pal.

Buffy made good use of the paralysis spell, and I had a good laugh of her relentlessly loosing her arrows in the Big Bad Orc. Just one more, just to make sure, right? Hehe. Poor thing, the adrenaline of being crushed and facing such a foe is both exhilarating and terrifying.



Words of wisdom from Acadian. I'm sure Buffy will take this to heart.

Posted by: mirocu May 27 2016, 04:34 PM

Once again Buffy delivers, pun intended


Indeed the old paladin is right; courage isn´t being without fear but rather doing the right thing even when it´s staring right at you, making you feel smaller than ever.

I like Buffy´s careful considerations before doing something. Anything can go wrong but with a backup plan at least you have a chance. Well done, Buffs!

Posted by: ghastley May 27 2016, 05:02 PM

How do you tell the difference between a totally paralysed Orc and a dead one, if you don't have an Acadian to tell you? You can't cast a detect life without dispelling your bow.

I liked the reminder that the detect spell distinguishes friend and foe. And works anywhere in the cell, even if there's a moveable wall in the way.

Posted by: mALX May 29 2016, 07:36 AM

From the moment that Orc leaped down this story took off! This is what I've been waiting for; Buffy is at her best in the really tough combat where she is one shot away from peeing her self,

Awesome write on that fight scene, I knew she would make it and still couldn't tear my eyes from the page! Loved this update!

Ooh, I like the sound of that spell! It would have saved an adventurer in a Cyrodiil Ayleid ruin if I'd had something like that,

Posted by: SubRosa May 30 2016, 11:30 PM

Buffy is definitely the picture of a l33t commando here, with her cautious sneaking and clever use of magic. Not to mention the time and care she takes to prepare herself before she starts the fight. Even still, Gro-Some-Balls the Orc quite nearly made mincemeat out of her. That was a good writing, as it showed that in spite of how good Buffy is at doing this, she is still not an omnipotent Mary Sue. She is a real person, who just happens to be really good at doing certain things. But she is still someone we can relate to.

This is so refreshing to hear. Lately I seem to be watching a lot of movies where people talk about being fearless, to the point of stressing how important it is to have no fear. I just cannot help but roll my eyes whenever I hear that. The person who is not afraid is not going to live very long. It is fear that keeps us from doing mortally stupid things, like jumping into the lion cage at the zoo to pet the kitties. Not to mention it is fear that turns on our adrenaline, and gives us the energy to keep going when our lives are in real peril. Without fear, our species would not have lasted long. It is only when you allow fear to control you that it is bad. The rest of the time it is a superpower.

Now it's time for a delivery! Back to Mistveil keep. Maybe Buffy will find those spiders along the way...

Posted by: Lopov Jun 1 2016, 04:22 PM

The first sentence made me chuckle because of the Bosmer-sized crevice part - good opening to the story.

I really like it that the first half of the story isn't about spotting bandits with Buffy's eyes, instead she relies solely on her magic and can discern whether enemies are seating or standing.

The battle with the Orc ringleader is also written very well, there are some tense moments as the brute is charging for Buffy and she saves herself in the last second.

Is this quest about saving Wylandriah vanilla or mod-added?

Posted by: ghastley Jun 1 2016, 05:08 PM

They do happen in the vanilla game, if you join the Companions. I have actually had "rescue Wylandriah from Broken Helm Hollow" It's a http://en.uesp.net/wiki/Skyrim:Rescue_Mission selecting an NPC you've already dealt with, and placing them in a bandit camp near their usual location.

Posted by: Grits Jun 3 2016, 12:58 PM

Gro-Balzer, nice!

I enjoyed seeing Buffy’s careful scouting of the bandit cave, especially the part where she mentally rehearsed her actions and backup plan once she was in position. I can imagine the hours of training that led to Buffy’s swift spell swap and dive to the side in the face of the angry orc. The pace of this part was beautiful, slow and cautious until Buffy loosed that first arrow, then breathless as gro-Balzer’s leap and charge changed everything.

I’m most often looking over the armored shoulder of the guy who jumps off the ledge. It was terrifying to see that charge from Buffy’s view, and imagine the slow swirl of green magic that gave her a second chance with her bow. I loved Acadian’s words about courage.

Buffy’s magic was delightful throughout. I love those practical spells that keep her backpack light. Thankfully Wylandriah seemed untraumatized by her adventure. That fog of distraction served her well. I suspect that she didn’t fully realize the extent of the danger, and the plans those bandits had to entertain themselves. Her familiar lines coming from within that chamber really made me grin!

Thumping extra arrows into the dead orc seemed like the appropriate response from my crew. One small elf went in to do a job that would have taken who knows how many guards, and no friendly blood (or other fluids, lol) was shed. Well done, Buffy!!

Posted by: Acadian Jun 3 2016, 03:01 PM

DE- Thank you! Over all, the two part story was fairly representative of how Buffy blends bow and magic to help compensate for her frailty and complete lack of melee ability.

mirocu- Buffy does not have the quick thinking instincts of a skirmisher; that is why her tactics are so methodical and she is always trying imagine plans for when things go wrong. Thank you!

ghastley- Acadian’s direct contributions are small, but he actually is an integral part of how Buffy does business. And Buffy finds him handy to have. I’ve grown to quite like the challenge that Skyrim’s detection spells only work while actively being cast. This has led to Buffy ‘pulsing the air’ for threats every few steps while sneaking as a matter of habit. I did change the spells to detect anything of rabbit or larger size that has magicka; hence, her spell can locate living, undead, daedra, even the steam powered dwemer automatons. She has a separate spell for locating truly dead (no magicka) corpses.

mALX- Aww, thanks! I thought you would appreciate some Buffy in combat stuff for a change!

SubRosa- Thanks much for the kind words. I do think of Buffy as elegantly lethal – as long as she is in control of the situation. But I also wanted to show how close she can get to being squashed like a butterfly when things unravel on her. Given how focused her skills as a glass cannon are, it doesn’t take that much for her to get into trouble.

Lopov- Hee! Buffy’s self-conscious about her size, but it does indeed make her a small target. This quest was pure fiction but, as ghastley kindly mentioned, quite representative of ‘rescue a kidnapped victim’ radiant quests that can be given by the Companions or Dawnguard.

Grits- Thank you. Buffy tries to compensate for her lack of skirmish instincts by imagining bad situations, devising plans in advance and relentlessly drilling them to the point where, hopefully, they’ll help when she might otherwise panic-freeze. I’m glad that Wy’s charmingly disconnected dialogue was able to fit into the story. In fact, you are right that her absentmindedness simplified away the possibility of Buffy having to deal with a ‘trauma victim’ and helped keep the scope of our story under control. Heh, Buffy getting panic-stuck on full-automatic hasn’t happened since her flare spell kept bouncing those first two rats around in Oblivion’s tutorial dungeon for several seconds after they were dead.

*

No short story this week. Buffy and I have completed the draft of a major project, but I’m going to wait three weeks before beginning to post it. I have my spring pilgrimage to visit Acadian Sr scheduled next week and want to wait until that is behind me and I get caught up from my absence before embarking on our next adventure.

Speaking of our next project, it seems that turning Buffy’s quill loose to roam with abandon for a time really did help get some things out of her system. Shortly after we began posting these short stories, Buffy’s interest returned to her bigger story arc. I attribute that to embracing Buffy’s current Skyrim mechanics and applying them even when in the southern provinces. Regardless, while creating short stories, we have also managed to fully draft Book 2. It picks up right where Book 1 left off and covers Buffy’s time of recovery and discovery in Valenwood.

So. . . in late June, I will let this thread ‘rest’ for a time, probably moving it to our sub forum and begin posting Book 2. At one episode a week, that will take about six months. In the meantime, Book 3 is well underway and should be fully drafted long before we finish Book 2. Book 4 is. . . well, I do consider Buffy’s story to be neverending. . . .

Posted by: hazmick Jun 3 2016, 04:26 PM

Enjoy your visit to Acadian Sr, I hope all is well on that front.

Haa-Rei and I are very much looking forward to another Buffy book!

Posted by: mirocu Jun 3 2016, 04:34 PM

I for one love these little snippets from Buffy´s life and I hope the smaller, stand-alone episodes will make a return some day. They suit me just fine. As for Buffy´s bigger story arc and all... Well, I fear I will feel left out as I haven´t followed it as much which is of course a reason I enjoy her snippets instead. But we´ll see. Maybe I can jump in and make myself at home anyway. After all, the story is about one of my best friends



Have a happy trip and all the best to Acadian Sr!

Posted by: mALX Jun 3 2016, 11:12 PM

I'm so glad you are going to see your Dad; even if it means missing Buffy (and you) for the next couple weeks


l

Posted by: Renee Jun 4 2016, 02:38 PM

Those silly rascals. Don't they know they'll never be able to get away with their capture?

Lady Saga and Bjorn Tubewyyld (my two archers) also do this. Like, if there's two enemies, they will rehearse shooting one arrow, quickly aiming the second, and shooting that one too. And what will happen next?

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Jun 6 2016, 05:18 AM

Well, we'll be here when you get back, Acadian! I hope you have a good time!

Posted by: Grits Jun 10 2016, 05:50 PM

I am very excited to hear Book 2 is so close, and what comes after is underway! A neverending story sounds wonderful.

Safe travels! May you find Acadian Sr well and enjoy your time together. We’ll be thinking of you often while you’re on your spring pilgrimage.

Posted by: McBadgere Jun 11 2016, 07:57 PM

Y'ssssss!!...Acadian's writing again!!!... ...

Yeah, okay...Only just got through the first two...But...

...

Fair dues...Awesome stuff...

Much looking forward to reading the rest...

Nice one!!...

*Applauds heartily*...


EDIIIIIIIITTTTTAHHH!!!...(Some. Time. Later....)...

Well that was all shades of awesome!... ...Properly loved all that...

Still a massive fan of your writing, Sir...

Oh, also, you honour me, sir... ...



Very much looking forward (or is it backward?)...To reading Buffy's new (former?) adventure...

Fair dues...

Nice one!!...

*Applauds heartily*...

Posted by: Acadian Jun 17 2016, 07:31 PM

hazmick- Thank you! The trip went pretty well.

mirocu- Thanks. Oh, you know Buffy’s story better than you think, I’m sure, given all the penpal letters Buffy and Lothran have exchanged. You know that she was orphaned and raised in Bravil. Trained as a mystic archer by Daenlin and the University. Fell in love with Savlian and helped him save Kvatch. He died in the final battle and a despondent Buffy went to Valenwood to grieve. Yup, that’s the summary of Book 1 so you’re all set.

mALX- Thanks! As I said to hazmick, the trip went well. Acadian Sr's doing pretty well for 95.

Renee- Thank you. Yes, Buffy’s a methodical planner, largely to compensate for her lack of quick thinking when the troll dung hits the fan.

DE- Thanks!

Grits- Thank you. The trip went well and, happily, I’m still on track to launch Book 2 next week.

McB- Gosh, it is so nice to see you back amongst us! As you know, this last story isn’t the first time I’ve borrowed your null iron idea to suppress the magic of captive mages. And I bet you’ll recognize some more of your inspiration in the prequel to Book 2.

I am humbled and ever so grateful for the warm support of Buffy’s friends. I’m going to move this thread over to my sub forum now and let it 'rest'. I expect there will come a time in the future when more short stories from 'somewhere in time' that don't quite fit into Buffy's larger arc will surface here. In the meantime, I plan to launch Book 2 in the main fanfic forum next Friday.

Posted by: mALX Jun 18 2016, 02:57 AM

WOO HOO! I've been waiting for Book 2 for years!