I wonder where they are off to now? perhaps another shrine? I see a couple that are south of Azura's.

Buffy made her way to Azura's Shrine in Episode 73. The bowgirl hoped the Daedra Lord could offer some guidance on how to lessen her fear and improve her skill when it came to fighting the creatures of Oblivion. Azura could read Buffy's heart and gave her cryptic instructions to proceed south. Acadian apparently understood Azura's guidance better than Buffy, for he seemed prepared to assist with navigation.

Rider- Thank you. Yes, it can be frustrating that NPCs in the game don't become friends like they do in our stories. Despite the fact that Buffy adores Daenlin for example, when she goes to replace the flowers in the ceramic vase she gave to him, he simply talks about perfect arrows and mudcrabs.

Thomas Kaira- Thanks for appreciating the flashback to one of Daenlin's hunting lessons.

SubRosa- Yes, ten or so 'bridge' episodes on her way to what will be a massive mini-series (maxi-series?). Thanks for appreciating the touch of how Buffy was trained to hunt. Thank you also for the nod to Savlian; I try to keep reinforcing that Buffy is motivated by people she cares for, not guilds, causes or governments. Her motivation regarding Kvatch will again be simply expressed in the next episode. I appreciate you seeing the butterfly dragon in Buffy - you always have.

mALX- How delightful of you to post our screenie of Buffy with her naked mare! I must admit that the shot of Buffy's butt was not exactly an intentional foreshadow of Acadian's first word. Yes, another Daedric Shrine coming up. Thank you!

The Vyper- Thanks for your insight on several quotes. We so appreciate it. Elberond has a wonderful idea of heating a rock by spell and holding it to warm his hands! Buffy loves it, and you already have her thinking about heating a rock to pre-warm her bedroll when camping in the cold!

Linara- Thank you for the kind words! I think you'll find the next episode very revealing about Acadian, and the one after that downright transformational for Buffy.

King Coin- Thanks! You're exactly right that they're on their way to a Daedric Shrine. It will prove to be the one Buffy has been searching for all along, and her last one for Book 1.

All- Thanks to everyone that mentioned Buffy's doctrine. I was hesitant to change it, but Buffy hates hypocrisy. That she allowed Fathis Aren and Alessia Caro to live after being mean to her or her friends troubled her by being inconsistent with her doctrine. She feels much better now that her doctrine better reflects her nature.

Minque and Alexander have graciously bestowed our own subforum here at chorrol upon Buffy and I, that we may archive her older threads in a central location. I have also opened what I hope will be a fun new thread there that we call 'Buffy's Basket of Potpourri'. I bring it up because the second post therein talks about Phabulous Phantoms.



"A dragon!" I breathed in amazement. The massive gray statue was undoubtedly a Daedric Shrine. I was mesmerized. A jagged dorsal fin began at the base of the skull and continued for a third the length of its graceful neck which swept up, then down into the serpentine body. And wings! Beautifully graceful wings that arced upward, longing to fly. Two powerful rear legs were poised to spring their owner skyward, while a pair of small forearms ended in prey-grasping claws. A long slender tail was coiled around the base of the statue balancing the neck's forward heft.

My mind was searching countless texts from my research about Daedric Princes. Dimly remembered pages flashed before of my eyes until one came sharply into focus:

'Peryite, also known as the Taskmaster, is the Daedric Prince whose sphere is the ordering of the lowest orders of Oblivion. Some accounts also claim his sphere is pestilence. Peryite's statue depicts a dragon, and is ostensibly concerned with ensuring all things are accounted for, neat, tidy and in their right order.'

I didn't understand what any of that meant except one word - dragon. He was beautiful! They had fascinated me since about the time I turned eighteen. While at the University, I recalled eagerly reading about them in several books, including 'Mysterious Akavir' and the 'King Edward' series. They were an Akaviri race that could fly, and closely linked to the various natural elements of destruction magic.

I continued to stare at the majestic gray dragon. Although I had read that most were red or black, Akatosh himself chose a gold dragon as his physical form. Perhaps there were other colors and varieties as well. Supposedly they were extinct, but I had my doubts about that. According to legend, they could shape-shift so how would one ever know? As I looked at Peryite, I doubted anything on Nirn could force such a beautiful and powerful race of beings out of existence.

Reluctantly, I coaxed my eyes from the dragon. Five followers stood motionless in the clearing around the statue. At first I thought they were simply mesmerized as was I, but after a time I noted they still had not moved.

Superian and I continued across the wooden bridge suspended high above the Silverfish River. The followers remained in some sort of trance or frozen state and didn't respond to my hails. With the sun fading behind me and stars beginning to appear overhead, I approached the shrine. Even astride Superian, I felt tiny beneath the gaze of the statue. As I touched the cold stone, Peryite's deep voice perfectly matched the powerful dragon it resonated from.

"This one moves! But wait. There are three. What has Azura sent me? A wood elf archer, small and underfed? A dark horse built for speed? No, it is this third presence that intrigues me. Speak, Dragonrider."

I was completely confused but, at my paladin's silent urging, kept my mouth shut. He responded for us aloud. "My name is Acadian, Milord. I am - or rather was - a humble knight in the Order of the Ice Dragons. We served the Graybeards."

"You date yourself, knight," Peryite replied. "It has been a very long time since an ice dragon flew above Nirn." I was feeling smaller every moment, as the Daedra Lord continued, "Your dragon must have been powerful indeed, for the presence is still strong. A name?"

"Phantom, Milord," said Acadian. "She and I perished together centuries ago, far to the north."

"The spirit of a dragon is immortal," Peryite mused. "I see she has sustained you. It must be true what they say about the bond between a dragonrider and my kin. I have never had the fortune. Nevertheless, I accept and honor the spirit of this sister called Phantom. What can I do for you, knight?"

I continued to be quite sure that keeping my mouth shut was the best course of action as my fingers nervously tangled into the familiar comfort of Superian's mane. Why didn't I know all this about my paladin?

Acadian replied to Peryite, "The elf, who now sustains what remains of Phantom and I, seeks your wisdom, Milord. Her quest is to help free Kvatch from the siege imposed by one of your fellow Princes. She requires the courage and skill to confront the denizens of the Deadlands."

"What say you, elf?" My heart quickened to realize the dragon was addressing me. "Why do you embark on such a quest? Fortune? Fame?"

"I-I do it for a man, Milord. His name is Savlian Matius."

"I sense truth in your words, elf. I will not openly confront Dagon; however, it would not displease me to see order restored to your plane. I would ask a service of you. If you survive, I expect you will gain that which you seek."

I took a deep breath. "How may I serve you, Milord?"

"You have seen my followers," the dragon's deep voice began. "They are an embarrassment to me. The fools cast a spell in the hopes of summoning me to them. It was prideful and foolish, and it has had its consequences. They are now trapped between worlds; their bodies here on this plane, their souls in Oblivion. I would have you reunite the bodies and the souls. I will transport you to the plane of Oblivion in which they are trapped. Find their souls. When all are collected, I will return you here. Prepare yourself to battle Daedra, and return only if you are ready to enter my plane."

I felt overwhelmed, almost numb, as I turned Superian into the clearing in front of the shrine and slid to the ground. I would make camp near Peryite's silent sentries.

After filling several water bags from the nearby Silverfish River, I dragged a slaughterfish that had interrupted my bath back to the campfire. While eating and checking my equipment, I finally dared think about the day's revelations.

I now began to realize why dragons had fascinated me since shortly after I met Acadian. The perceptive Boderi Farano had nicknamed me her 'butterfly dragon'. Before we had left the Black Mare Lodge, Acadian said that he had ridden mounts much larger than Superian. Dagail, Azura and Peryite all seemed to know more about my paladin than I.

Finally I blurted out, "Would it hurt to have told me more about you? Did you somehow forget to mention that you used to fly dragons and now you partially are one? You've always accepted me unconditionally, yet it seems you doubt my ability to return the favor and feel obliged to keep secrets from me." I blinked back my stupid tears. Why did I feel like crying when I was so angry? "You're a part of my very being, yet others know more about you than I. Can you understand how that hurts me?"

"Forgive me, my bowgirl, for I see I have failed you again. I feared that the more you knew of me, the more influence I would exert. I am ancient, and my story is history - best left to gather dust. You are young and the story of your life is still to unfold. I confess that I have helped you in minor ways, but I've always wanted the path you traveled to be your own."

"What do you mean about influencing me?" I said, beginning to calm down. "You've never forced your will upon me."

"How do you heal, Buffy?"

"By laying on of hands. . . like a paladin." My eyes opened wide. "Because of you?"

"Yes," he said. "It was never my intent, nor something I willingly caused. Nevertheless, it is my fault."

"You speak as if it is a curse, my paladin. Being an empathic healer is a blessing. If the ability comes from you, I welcome it and thank you for it."

"After centuries with Phantom, she and I are indistinguishable and I fear inflicting that upon you. Yet as Boderi clearly senses, you are already affected by the dragon spirit."

"Again, you speak of these things as a curse," I said. "Don't you know that I welcome your presence? The fact that it is bound to that of a dragon matters not. I accept you unconditionally - I learned that from you." I managed a smile. "For Mara's sake, I take you with me even when I go to pee. You're a part of me, like the blood that flows within my veins. I will not withdraw from you, my paladin, nor will I keep secrets - and I expect the same from you."

"Agreed."

"Fine." I sat quietly looking into the campfire in front of me. Eventually, my thoughts returned to the fearful task ahead.

Acadian apparently sensed that my anger and hurt was now turning to apprehension. He broke the silence. "Are you willing to accept Peryite's task then?"

I figured I had beaten Acadian up enough for one evening and had to smile at his obvious desire to let his history 'gather dust'. "Will you come with me?"

"Of course," he replied.

"Then, yes. After all, it's what I asked for, right?" I gulped. "In the morning, we'll enter Peryite's plane of Oblivion. I'm going to need our dragon spirit as we go into the very den of my nightmares."

This post has been edited by Acadian: Feb 9 2011, 08:41 PM

Another almost new chapter !!! I love the changes you made to the original chapter ... and the promise of more changes the dialogue foreshadows - GAAAAAH !!! I can't wait to see the new line unfold !!!


Believe it or not, I have a nit, lol. In this paragraph you have Buffy's thoughts wedged into the middle of Peryite's dialogue - just a bit confusing, brought the flow of immersion up abruptly till I sorted it out.

"You date yourself, knight," Peryite replied. "It has been a very long time since an ice dragon flew above Nirn." I was feeling smaller every moment. "Your dragon must have been powerful indeed, for the presence is still strong. A name?"

AWESOME CHAPTER !!! I will be on the edge of my seat with all these changes !!!

Ahhh, we learn more of Acadian our paladin! How rewarding!

A Dragonrider, indeed. Did he disappear between with Phantom? I can't help but thinking of a certain series featuring noble dragonriders and their even more noble dragons.

Buffy's hurt over being the last to learn of Acadian's history is very palpable here. Makes me feel you got the butt end of that at least once IRL. Again you capture the swirling emotions of a young woman very well.

What a very intriguing background you have given us for Acadian and Phantom (plus a lovely choice of terms!). It all works extremely well. Even better was Buffy's reaction to being the last to know about it all! That was so very realistic on her part. All in all a good, quiet episode that is yet filled with revelatory action!

Yet another fun read. Peryite is one of my favorite Daedric Princes. Ironically, his quest is one of my least favorite.


Indeed, it's hard to look away. The statue almost seems alive.


Quite understandable. Being the conduit in a conversation between a Daedric Prince and a dragon riding Paladin of the ancient world must make one feel like an ant in a valley between two mountain ranges.


Well, the Elder Scrolls tell of the return of dragons after Oblivion opens and the sons of Skyrim spill their own blood. Maybe Peryite will be able to manifest on Nirn and finally know the bond between rider and mount?


I think Buffy already has the courage and the skill she needs. Now, she just needs the confidence to go with it.


So now the question arises: Is it Acadian's influence brought out the dragon spirit in Buffy, or the dragon spirit that drew Acadian to Buffy? I wonder...


Nice explanation on the origin of her healing abilities.


Well said, Buffy! Well said.


Lol, who else but our beloved bowgirl could so chastise an ancient Paladin?


The next chapter should be quite interesting indeed.

What's this? Don't be going soft on us now, paladin! Buffy may have let this rest for now, but don't think for one second I will.

The discussion between Peryite and Acadian was quite enlightening... and mysterious. Makes me want to know more about the now immortal dragonrider, and about his companion Phantom. Mephala is spinning her threads now! Perhaps you should pay her a visit next? (though you probably won't do her quest, since it entails cold-blooded murder.)



ARGH! It's... the F word! Thankfully, you managed to salvage the situation by the time it was dropped, so at least you can rest easy knowing Buffy will still be speaking to you over the week.

In Episode 74, Buffy arrived at Peryite's Shrine, where she learned more about dragons - including the one whose spirit is bound to Acadian. Quite hurt by how much she did not know about her paladin, she angrily admonished him not to keep secrets. Peryite offered Buffy the opportunity to improve her skill at fighting Daedra. She now seems ready to enter his plane and face her fears.

mALX- Thank you so much! Acadian's background will not be center stage again for a long time, but it will come up occasionally and is just more depth on who and what he is. Thanks for pointing out that paragraph that caused you some concern. I made a minor adjustment that I hope helps preserve the flow.

Rider- Although I have seen the term dragonrider used in the titles of books and games, I have done no research on them. The only major fictional works that I have intentionally used to influence our story that I am aware of are Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the Clan of the Cave Bear series. I know our reference to Phantom is obvious. Thank you so much for your kind words on our efforts to capture Buffy's confusion, hurt and even anger.

SubRosa- Acadian's background was conceived quite some time ago, and we've dropped a few dragon hints along the way. We have a distant storyline (well beyond Book 1) planned in the province of Skyrim. I have mixed emotions about the announcement that TES V will take place in Skyrim. On one hand, I look forward to the possibilities it now offers; on the other hand, I am apprehensive about how much TES V lore will cause my plans to change and adjust - specifically how they will portray the Graybeards, dragons and Kyne. I'll just have to wait and see. I have tentatively moved Buffy's distant Valenwood storyline to precede visiting Skyrim to give us more time to sort it out. Part of me sure wishes TES V was in Hammerfell or Blackwood! Thank you for the kind words!

The Vyper- I appreciate your style of offering insight on specific passages and find it very helpful. Thank you. Let me address only a couple of your wonderful comments-

Buffy chastising Acadian. Although Acadian has rebuked the bowgirl on more than one occasion, he has certainly learned that Buffy requires the last word; even more so when that last word is 'Fine'. He admits that this is the natural birthright prerogative of a woman, just like changing her mind or owning fifty pairs of shoes.

Was Acadian drawn to the dragon in Buffy, or was it the dragon bound to Acadian that gradually imbued her spirit into Buffy? 'Tis the latter. When the energy of he and his dragon entered that magical Imperial Prison cell window in search of a new 'host', Acadian was quite chagrined to find that he had joined into the swirling mess of confusion that was the adolescent mind of Buffy. As Dagail surmised so long ago, he would likely have preferred his normal fare of a young knight or perhaps a sturdy ranger to mentor. As a paladin however, he has a firm grip on the word 'commitment', and has learned to accept the bowgirl without condition, just as she accepts him. What he wasn't fully prepared for however, was the magic that is Buffy and how it would cause such a profound blending of dragon, paladin and bowgirl.

Thomas Kaira- Thank you! I appreciate you cuing on Buffy's use of 'Fine'. Acadian regrets ever letting her talk to dear treydog's fiery Athynae. Buffy stands under the shadow of the last Daedric Shrine she will need to visit in Book 1. This next episode is the culmination of her evolving fascination with these Shrines. What she learns in Peryite's realm will be transformational for Buffy and represents a giant step closer to Kvatch.



Waves of dry heat welcomed me to Peryite's realm. Within seconds, I was reaching for an arrow as a clannfear - straight from my nightmares - charged. My Slayer-propelled arrow jerked the Daedra to a stop momentarily as a pair of his brethren quickly caught up to him. An emerald burst of illusion magic swirled from my fingertips into the massive shield-like head of clannfear number two. Almost instantly I tossed a sphere of magic into the air which erupted above my head. As the glow descended over me, I disappeared from sight and the bones of a skeleton appeared to take my place.

The clannfear under my command, along with the skeleton I had summoned, occupied the other two Daedra for the moment. I poisoned an arrow and nocked it. As I drew tension, my bow and hands reappeared in front of me. One clannfear had survived the melee and immediately turned his attention toward me.

Slayer stunned the Daedra as my hand shot over my shoulder for the tail of another arrow. The badly wounded and poisoned clannfear shook off the sparks that arced around his armored head and resumed the charge. With a calmness that surprised me, I stood my ground, pulled silk to cheek and loosed again. Before I could chase the arrow with a spell that would briefly immobilize my foe, the song of Azura's Star announced the fight was over.

While waiting for my pounding heart to subside, I slowly scanned my surroundings. Within the considerable range of my magic rings, I could see several pink glows, but none close by. Streaks of lightning bolted across a red and black sky that was filled with ominously shifting clouds. Nonstop rolling thunder provided noisy camouflage for prey and predator alike. Flames erupted irregularly from angry rivers and lakes of molten liquid that bubbled and hissed. These lava flows were the source of the unrelenting heat that seemed to bake even the rocks.

I was reminded of the image Acadian had shown me, as well as my brief venture inside the flaming gate at Kvatch. Part of me wished that Savlian Matius would burst through the portal behind me and, once again, snatch me back to the safety of Cyrodiil. "Welcome, Buffy, to Oblivion," I whispered in awe.

Yes, I was scared - but filled with exhilaration as well. This is what I wanted, after all. My nightmares of clannfears had always ended with their vicious beaks looming large while I tried to emit a scream that never came. I would awaken at that point, thrashing and shuddering at the thought of my flesh being torn from me and eaten. I tried to remind myself that my own skills were now considerable, and of how hard I had worked to improve them. I figured there was a fine line between confidence and terror; as I looked at the three dead nightmares before me, I hoped I would find that line here.

Pondering my course, I realized that this land was vast and confusing. There were no moons, stars, nor sun to guide me. It didn't matter. I carried plenty of full water bags, potions, poisons, a very full quiver and even a small supply of food. I had no map of this plane, but wasn't worried about precise navigation. I knew Acadian could help me locate the missing souls of Peryite's followers, but finding them wasn't my primary purpose here. I intended to hunt down every Daedra in this realm.

*

And hunt I did. Scamps, fire atronachs, clannfears, even Dremora.

Before the end of the first day, my sweat-soaked buckskin greaves and long-sleeved blouse came off. I allowed them to quickly dry in the baking heat as I donned my Arena raiment - at least my skin could breathe a bit better. I made a note to craft a powerful resist fire ring if I ever made it back to the University.

In what I estimated to be the several days that followed, I learned the strengths and weaknesses of Daedra. Scamps and atronachs threw spells that were easy to dodge. My arrows were much faster than their fireballs. Atronachs were immune to poison, but I had a spell that could strip that ability from them. Clannfears were frighteningly fast, but not when I drained their speed or controlled their minds.

Most Daedra were dispatched by Slayer from a stealthy distance. My specialty as a mage, of course, was illusion. When I encountered groups, I would trick and confuse them into turning upon their own. During the few close encounters I had, I used magic to calm, command, frighten or immobilize my enemies; that gave me the several seconds of safety I needed to bring Slayer to bear.

Despite the ever-threatening sky, there was no wind here - nor were there any trees or overhanging branches. Exploiting these facts, I experimented with a new archery tactic. I would fire a high angle arrow. As it arced gracefully overhead, I would carefully time the release of a second arrow using a flat trajectory. With practice I could cause both to strike the same or different targets simultaneously.

I learned to survive in this hostile land that had no day or night. When exhaustion demanded it, I even managed short periods of sleep. The plants were either dead or dangerous, but I discovered how to safely harvest some of them for poisons. The flesh of Daedra, while as foul tasting as rat meat, could be carefully cooked over the abundant flows of lava and sustain me. I realized that the limitation to my time here would be my water bags.

Huge pyres, billowing clouds of black smoke, marked the scattered locations of Peryite's followers. I was relieved to learn that freeing their souls did not require me to kill them; simply touching their ethereal presence in this plane would send their spirits back to the gray dragon of the Daedra Lord. As I located and freed each of them, I added a notch to a piece of spiddal stick in order to help me keep track.

At one point, I had to travel through an underground cave system, but it was no cooler under this realm than on its surface.

Atop a small tower, I found the only source of refreshment - a pair of small fountains. One bubbled forth blood, causing a brief wave of fear to grip me. Were there Daedric vampires? Based on my reading, I didn't think so and I had certainly not sensed the presence of any. Regardless, I ignored that fountain. The other however, offered a magical blue liquid that was reasonably pleasant to the taste. I drained that one.

Even after freeing all five souls of Peryite's followers, I continued hunting until the beasts of this realm became scarce and my water ran low. I was no longer paralyzed with fear at the thought of Daedra. Even the clannfears of my nightmares now fell to my newly honed skills and confidence.

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.

*

With my back to the magic portal that would return me to Cyrodiil, I raised Slayer to the lightning-filled sky in both victory and challenge. I then turned and passed through the archway of shimmering blue light.

Breathing deeply of the deliciously cool air, and basking in welcome sunshine, I barely noticed that Peryite's followers were now actively worshipping the gray dragon.

I went straight to Superian and gave her a hug. She welcomed me, but snorted with flaring nostrils as she bounced her head. I could see why - days of dried sweat, Daedra innards and singed reminders of fireballs passing too closely. "Oh my, I guess you're probably right. I'm sure I don't smell very good."

I then made my way down the short distance to the Silverfish River, pausing only long enough to drop my bow, quiver, and pack before wading into the cool water up to my neck. After drinking my fill, I removed my raiment and tossed it up to the shore. After a long, luxurious swim, I retrieved a pair of vials containing soap and shampoo, then scrubbed the last few days from my body and hair. Finally, I climbed out of the river and sat on its bank to dry in the sun while I combed some conditioner through my hair.

Whatever trinket that Peryite had in mind for returning the souls of his followers would pale in comparison to the lessons this realm had wrought upon me. "Acadian, thanks for believing in me and helping to navigate inside that confusing place. After we finish here, let's go right back across this river to the Imperial Bridge Inn. I need to sleep in a bed, with real sheets, pillows and everystuff."

"Everything," corrected Acadian with a light humor.

I jumped to my feet and planted both hands on my hips. With feigned indignation, I quipped, "And just exactly who appointed you as keeper of my speech? I said everystuff and that's what I meant. You know, maybe a savory meal seated at a real table with some wine, hopefully a nice room that has a thick carpet to curl my toes into. And some clean, soft sheets." I started to stick my tongue out but stopped, realizing that I was still quite naked. I quickly started gathering my things and dressing.

Acadian's response was equally playful. "Was it not just recently you asked for more communication from me, Buffy? Would you now deign to select my subjects?"

I opened my mouth to speak, then closed it. Not one to give Acadian the last word however, I then said, "Fair enough. Yes, I always want you to talk to me. You're a part of me; if someone were to put on one of my rings and look at us, they would only see one pink glow."

The old voice replied, "Let me say then, I'm quite pleased we're still alive. You've become quite the Daedra Slayer, no?"

"Thank you, my paladin. Maybe those nightmares will stop now."

As I climbed the hill to report to Peryite, I added with a dreamy smile, "We're getting a real bed tonight Acadian, did you hear me?"

This post has been edited by Acadian: Feb 8 2011, 09:37 PM

The entire time in the land of Peryite was wonderfully described and well written. I felt as if I was there, and I was rooting for Buffy to eliminate every last daedra from that place.

It was quite the trial by fire, but Buffy emerged stronger and more confident. And that's a good thing. Usually.

But it was this that made the entire chapter for me: The growing relationship between Acadian and Buffy is delightfully summed up in these two paragraphs.

This chapter feels exactly as I remember it, and Buffy facing her nightmares and emerging stronger for it - Awesome, just as I remember it !!

Now I need to see if I can pull that off.

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.
Buffy is so impressive!

“You know, maybe a savory meal seated at a real table with some wine, hopefully a nice room that has a thick carpet to curl my toes into. And some clean, soft sheets.”
And she’s still Buffy!

Lots of tactical information to digest here. ‘How to Rule the Deadlands,’ by Buffy. Savlian will not believe that this is the same bowgirl he once bodily hauled back through a Gate!

Nit, if you can believe I saw one:
The flesh of Daedra, while as foul tasting as rat meat, could be carefully cooked over the abundant flows of lave and sustain me.
I suspect it should say lava.

And by the way, calmly cooking and eating Daedra meat? Go Buffy!!!

Here endeth Act 2.

Buffy has now found the skills and strength needed to survive in the hellish world of the Deadlands, as well as teaching herself techniques and strategies for Daedra slaying. I would most definitely say that she is ready for whatever lurks behind the Gate in Kvatch.



Now now, Acadian, don't be encouraging her to F-bomb you again!

As for Peryites reward, Spellbreaker seemed like a pretty heavy shield, so I'm not sure if Buffy will find much use for it. By the same token I doubt she'll care. She got what she wanted wandering Peryite's hunting grounds, and her skills have now been honed to deadly precision.

Hircine would be proud of you, B.

Such a wonderful, action-packed opening! Here we see Buffy showing off not only all the tricks that she has learned to effortlessly defeat three clannfears, but also demonstrating the poise she has gained after much hard-earned experience. And nary a drop of pee in her anywhere! And I see she has also added a new trick (the High-Low Shot?) to her arsenal.

pulled silk to cheek and loosed again
This is a wonderful phrase!

The flesh of Daedra, while as foul tasting as rat meat, could be carefully cooked over the abundant flows of lave and sustain me.
Ewwww! One more reason Teresa is happily a vegetarian!

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.
Yes indeed. Buffy has finally reached the end of her need to visit daedric shrines as well, I should think.

And last, but certainly not least, a bath in the river. How did I know that was coming?

Nits:
There were no moons, stars{,} nor sun to guide me.
I am thinking that you lost a comma during edits where I inserted it.

Catching up on Buffy’s adventures is a brutal reminder of how much time I have missed. I can’t get fully caught up in one sitting, but I wanted to comment on what I have read so far. Hope you don’t mind wading through large blocks of text:

Chapter 59:

I loved the way that Buffy continued to pour spells into the rat, bouncing it along the cavern floor. That mirrors another occasion when fear and surprise kept her pouring spells into a zombie (or was it a skeleton?) long after it was dead. It seems that old habits really do die hard (sorry hautee). I also got a nice chuckle out of her description of slaughterfish as ‘life support systems for teeth.’ And the fact that she refuses to engage the bear is just another of those small details that make Buffy so endearing.

Chapter 60:

Ah Mazoga *insert contented sigh*, I loved this chapter way back when I first read it and time has done nothing to blunt the impact. Buffy exhibits an admirable and uncharacteristic self-control during her conversation with the orc. Nothing says ‘everlasting friendship’ like the desire to throttle someone upon that first meeting.

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that so many of us here see Count Leyawiin as a decent (albeit ineffectual) man married to the biggest harpy in Tamriel. I look forward to the moment when Countess Alessia’s actions make Buffy savor the chance to cast stark reality upon her.

Chapter 61:

Buffy’s excursion to the Shrine of Nocturnal bears unexpected fruit. There appears to be madness to Acadian’s method. The location of Fisherman’s Rock gave Buffy the leverage to sway Mazoga, and her retrieval of the Eye gave her the leverage to sway Weebum-Na. I’m not sure that I (or Acadian for that matter) approve of her threats against Bejeen, but we both accept that Buffy is no saint. Isn’t it funny how an encounter with a mountain lion is all that is needed to redeem her in our eyes?

The irony in this statement is simply staggering! I wonder what Savlian would have to say about that! Excuse me Miss Pot (er Buffy), you are officially black!

This post has been edited by Destri Melarg: Feb 8 2011, 10:30 PM

"As I climbed the hill to report to Peryite, I added with a dreamy smile, "We're getting a real bed tonight Acadian, did you hear me?"
Are you guys sleeping together?

This is maybe my favorite chapter. Buffy grows up, at least as a predator.

You're welcome! And thank you for taking the time to clarify things a bit for me and for brining us all such a wonderful story to follow.

With a calmness that surprised me, I stood my ground, pulled silk to cheek and loosed again.
Isn't it amazing how you can be as jittery as a frightened squirrel before a battle, but as calm as a gentle breeze in the middle of one?

Nonstop rolling thunder provided noisy camouflage for prey and predator alike.
Don't start thinking like that, Buffy! Remember, Daedra live in the Deadlands and are used to the constant thunder. To them, it's just "background noise" that won't even register unless they're actually paying attention to it. If you're not careful, they'll be able to hear your footsteps through that racket as easily as a bandit would in a silent cave. Stay stealthy!

Part of me wished that Savlian Matius would burst through the portal behind me and, once again, snatch me back to the safety of Cyrodiil.
I can't blame Buffy for feeling that way. The first time one of my characters entered an Oblivion gate, I thought we'd wandered into Dante's Inferno.

Yes, I was scared - but filled with exhilaration as well.
Ah, the mix of fear and exhilaration that comes from being on the edge of disaster. Who can count the many warriors that have felt the same?

I figured there was a fine line between confidence and terror; as I looked at the three dead nightmares before me, I hoped I would find that line here.
I have a feeling that those nightmares will be far less frequent now.

I intended to hunt down every Daedra in this realm.
Very good, Buffy! The best way to fight your fears is to confront them directly. I used to be afraid of heights. Then I went skydiving and got over it.

I made a note to craft a powerful resist fire ring if I ever made it back to the University.
Very handy in the Deadlands, but it won't protect you from lava. So don't go swimming!

In what I estimated to be the several days that followed, I learned the strengths and weaknesses of Daedra.
Now Buffy is truly a student of war! Learning to overcome your enemies' strengths and exploit their weaknesses is a bit of an art. Putting that knowledge into practice can be a very heady felling indeed.

Despite the ever-threatening sky, there was no wind here - nor were there any trees or overhanging branches. Exploiting these facts, I experimented with a new archery tactic.
Buffy is truly thinking like a warrior here: Her normal strategy is to strike from cover, but that's sometimes very lacking in the Deadlands. So what does she do? She comes up with a tactic that turns the lack of cover into an advantage! Well Done, Buffy!

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.
Indeed. And quite an effective predator at that.

"Let me say then, I'm quite pleased we're still alive. You've become quite the Daedra Slayer, no?"
Lol, I can see the playwrights of Cyrodiil penning a new dramatic play: Buffy, the Daedra Slayer.

Edit- Odd. For some reason, the 'Quote' tags aren't working right. (at least, they don't appear to be on my screen)

This post has been edited by The Vyper: Feb 10 2011, 10:38 PM

Okay, caught up on another fanfic. Busy week of reading, let me tell ya'! But enough about that, on to Buffy!

I must first congratulate you on crafting such a wonderful story, with unbelievably believable characters and a magnificent narrative. The Whedon-inspired portions are icing on the proverbial cake for myself (doubt it? just look at my handle ), but you truly make it come alive as your own.

Your dealings with the various Daedra lords are truly inspired. I always hated the "Find Daedra Lord, give offering, do quest, collect useful thing" nature of their quests. Buffy's deeper motives are tune of my own heart, something I truly enjoy.

In Episode 75, Buffy entered Peryite's plane of Oblvion and faced her nightmares. A frightened bowgirl entered the burning realm, but a confident Daedra Slayer emerged.

Rider- Thank you for rooting for Buffy! And thanks also for appreciating the unique and growing relationship between she and her paladin.

mALX- Thank you! I swear Buffy has a masochistic streak! When something terrifies her, she seems to seek it out.

King Coin- You and I have tested the high/low trajectory simultaneous impact trick, and the game mechanics don't really support it. Historically however, it has successfully been used by both archers and artillery.

Grits- Thank you. Buffy the Daedra Slayer - but she still likes to sip Tamika's and curl up in clean sheets! Thanks for pointing out that nit so I could fix it.

Thomas Kaira- Thank you so much for the vote of confidence that Buffy is getting ready for that Oblivion Gate! Spellbreaker will likely end up on display with several other Daedric artifacts at the Mystic Archives.

SubRosa- Thank you for the kind words as we unabashedly tried to show how far the mystic archer bowgirl has come. On the Daedra flesh, ewww is right, but Buffy figured out that chewing on the Oblivion plant life was even worse! Yes! Finally she can stop traipsing around after Daedric Shrines, at least for the rest of Book 1. Thanks for your help with that nit.

Destri- A hearty welcome back to you, my friend! Thank you for the kind words. I loved that you picked up on Buffy being peeved that Mazoga did not follow her instruction against the backdrop of her own irresponsibly impetuous inability to follow Savlian's orders.

MyCat- Thank you for the joke about Buffy and Acadian sleeping together! It was indeed our intent for the reader to ponder that very question and conclude that they are a single pink glow sharing one frail elven body, and that their bound spirits transcend the considerations of flesh. They both wish the same thing for Buffy's heart: that she discover more than Daedra at Kvatch. Thank you also for your fabulously kind words on Buffy's growth.

The Vyper- Thank you for the wonderful comments! I'm so glad you appreciate the bowgirl's ability to (when given time to think about it) come up with creative and innovative plans and tactics. She was so proud that her own pee was not among the disgusting things all over her Arena raiment coming out of Peryite's realm.

Captain Hammer- A warm welcome to Buffy's world! I deeply appreciate you taking the time to catch up and grace us with such a comforting comment. Yes, once one gets beyond the tongue-in-cheek name, Buffy sees her world and those who inhabit it in rich and complex colors. Thank you again and I hope we can continue to earn your readership.



I waited nervously with both hands folded in my lap. As I looked across the desk at Headmaster Raminus Polus, I had no idea what his response would be to my plea for assistance.

The Imperial had listened intently as I spoke of the flaming Oblivion Gate. I described the Daedra that poured forth to be intercepted by the brave efforts of Kvatch's small force of defenders. I had been careful not to leave out the plight of our own mage, Sigrid, and the fate of her guildhall. Raminus now leaned back, his elbows resting on the arms of his large chair. Above steepled fingers, his hazel eyes gazed thoughtfully at the intricate designs crafted into the ceiling of his office. The simple guild-issue blue robe draping his shoulders attested to his humility, while belying the considerable authority he wielded.

Raminus broke the silence. "Buffy, have you asked the Elder Council for help?"

"No, Master Wizard. They have ignored the requests of Captain Matius. Do you think they would listen, or even grant audience, to a young wood elf from Bravil?"

I'm sure Raminus saw the pleading exasperation in my eyes, because his emotionless face creased into a gentle smile. "Well, I prefer to think of you as a promising young Apprentice of the Mages Guild, but your point is taken." He placed his palms on the desk. "It's true that Imperial battlemages answer to the Council of Mages, much the same way that city guards report to local county lords." The middle aged Imperial ran a hand through his black hair that was laced with streaks of gray - no doubt caused by the requests and antics of Apprentices such as myself. "However," he continued, "I won't have battlemages used as fodder. Could this Captain Matius put any assistance we provide to effective use? Does he know what he's doing up there?"

"Know what he's doing?" Bristling as I repeated the Headmaster's words, I started to aggressively come forward in my chair. I then stopped and took a deep breath. Compose yourself, Buffy. You can better defend Savlian without anger. I forced myself to settle back in the chair and unclench my jaw. Weeks of playing court games in Leyawiin had improved my discretion when it came to choosing words and controlling impulses. "How many Daedra from that gate have made it past Captain Matius to threaten the rest of Cyrodiil? I think the answer to that is proof he knows what he's doing. Consider how long he's been holding that line. Does that not speak sufficiently to his leadership and ability to effectively use limited resources? Savlian Matius has the heart of a lion and the soul of a hero; he simply needs more help, Master Wizard."

Raminus slowly nodded his head, seemingly satisfied by my words. "And what is your role in this?"

"I'm going to close that gate." The words just fell out of my mouth before I could stop them. They were true enough, but I had never dared utter them before. "Savlian needs assistance to maintain a defensive perimeter until that portal from Oblivion can be destroyed. He will then need that same help to retake Kvatch from the Daedra that siege it from within."

"Buffy, do you know anything about closing an Oblivion Gate?" His smile was one an indulgent parent might offer an ignorant child. "I know you've had some dealings running errands for Daedra Lords before, but do you have any idea the power they wield?"

I could see I would have to work for this. Thankful for having read most of the books that filled the shelves in Raminus' office, I also recalled the words of the Bravilian black marketeer, Ungarion. I took a deep breath and began my lecture. "A portal to an Oblivion Plane is maintained by the power of a sigil stone - a purified morpholith that has been inscribed by a Daedra Lord. Removing the stone closes the portal." I reached down into my pack nestled on the floor beside me.

The words 'sigil stone' had their intended effect. Raminus had dropped the indulgent smile and his eyes were open wide. "You have clearly done more research than I gave you credit f-"

The Imperial stopped in mid sentence as my hand emerged from my pack displaying Azura's Star. I placed the artifact on the desk in front of him. Fishing into the pack two more times, I added Meridia's Ring of Khajiiti, and Nocturnal's Skeleton Key to the top of his desk. "I have earned the favor of numerous Daedra Lords. In fact Tar-Meena has several more of their artifacts on display at the Mystic Archives. If you ask her, I'm sure she will verify who provided them. In answer to your question, Master Wizard, I know quite a bit about Daedra Lords and their power. As you can see, my research goes a bit beyond academic study."

Raminus' mouth had opened when he saw Azura's Star, his jaw dropping lower with each object I had placed before him. Finally he closed his mouth and turned in his chair. Retrieving a book from the shelf behind him, he began leafing through it, alternatively glancing at its pages and the items on his desk. I could see the familiar title of the text, 'Tamrielic Lore'. After emitting a scholarly 'hmm' and 'ahah' several times he gestured at the items and looked at me questioningly. "May I?"

"Of course." I nodded with a smile. I had certainly struck some sort of chord, and hoped that was a good sign.

After carefully examining each item and consulting the book several more times, Raminus announced, "Yes, the texts are correct. These are just as described. From what I know of these Daedric Princes, I see Boderi Farano has not overstated the talents of her young Apprentice. Now, if you intend to close an Oblivion Gate, you realize you will have to fight Daedra?"

Again reaching into my pack, I produced several more items and added them to the growing collection on Raminus' desk: a portion of scamp skin, the claws of a clannfear and a small vial of fire salts. "I have used and discarded more of these than I can recall, Master Wizard." Finally, I added a package wrapped in oilcloth that was slightly larger than a man's fist.

Raminus chuckled, "That pack of yours is just full of surprises. So are you, it seems." Focusing on the package, he pulled it closer and began unwrapping the oilcloth. His eyes opened wide as he involuntarily leaned back and released his breath in a quiet whistle. "A heart?"

"Dremora," I said quietly.

Raminus picked up a quill and poked at the object, carefully examining without allowing his fingers to touch it. His interest in the bloody organ seemed so academic. He still didn't get how serious I was, or the life and death nature of the struggle at Kvatch. I bit my lower lip and contemplated my next move. I was out of helpful things in my pack to plop on his desk to further convince him, but. . . I did have one more arrow in my quiver of tools to persuade Raminus. This 'arrow' was a verbal one. I nocked the shock-enchanted words to my tongue and loosed them.

"The Daedra I encountered inside Peryite's plane included two Dremora. I cut their hearts out." Pointing at the dark red object on the desk, I continued, "This is one of them; I ate the other."

My verbal arrow found its mark. The impact caused Raminus to drop his quill and stare at me in disbelief. "Wha- why? By the Nine!"

"Master Wizard, your knowledge of magic is unmatched, but do you understand what it takes to provide the meat that graces your table? Have you ever stalked a deer or faced down the charge of a boar?"

"No. No I haven't," said Raminus. His eyes remained fixed on the Dremora heart sitting before him.

"I learned to hunt as a child. My archery master taught me the old Bosmeri ways. By eating the heart of your prey you honor their death, gain insight into their nature and absorb some of their power. I don't ask that you understand the mindset of a predator; simply that you take me seriously. I know there will be Daedra blocking my path. They will not stop me."

Raminus silently rewrapped the heart and pushed it toward me. After a moment, he spoke solemnly, "As Akatosh is my witness, I believe you may indeed be the one to close that gate, Buffy. I will support your effort. My voice as Steward however, is but one on the Council of Mages. Can you help me convince Arch Mage Traven and the rest of the Council?"

My pulse quickened. "Of course, Master Wizard. What can I do to improve the outcome?"

"Buffy, there is a matter that preoccupies the Council of Mages and must be addressed first. I fear it may involve danger, but," he made a sweeping gesture at the items on his desk, "likely far less than that involved in garnering this. . . ah, collection."

Was this a trick? Did the Headmaster mean what he said, or was he simply using my desperation as a means to get some task accomplished? I studied the face across the desk. Raminus had always been kind, wise and supportive of my ways. I saw those same things in his eyes now. I liked and wanted to trust this man. Besides, I didn't really have many options other than to cooperate. "I will proudly serve my guild in any manner you wish, Master Wizard."

A warm smile rewarded my compliant trust. "Buffy, we never asked you to complete the traditional pilgrimage that students go through to retrieve wood for their mage's staff." Raminus glanced at Slayer, now leaning against the wall of his office. "Boderi and I felt the staff of a bow was all you needed in this regard. The wood for a mage's staff comes from a hidden grove tended by two of our mages, Zahrasha and Eletta." Raminus' eyes narrowed. "Several days ago, I sent our newest student to retrieve the wood for his staff. He has not returned. Of equal concern, neither Zahrasha nor Eletta have reported to the University for their scheduled resupply of provisions."

Master Wizard Raminus Polus leaned forward, locked his eyes onto mine and continued, "Wellspring Cave, east of the city, is the entrance to the grove." With that, he stood, ending our meeting. "I have a new class of young mages to welcome." He gathered some texts and turned to leave. "Be careful, Buffy."

After retrieving my things from Raminus' desk, I grabbed my pack, quiver and Slayer. I then made my way from the University's central tower across campus to the Mystic Archives. Upstairs, I met Boderi Farano waiting for me with a pot of tea.

"Well, how did it go?" inquired the Dunmeri battlemage. She motioned to a nearby bench and we both sat.

As we sipped tea, I told my University advisor and friend all about the meeting with Raminus.

Boderi listened intently until I finished, then smiled thoughtfully. "The Imperial City wasn't built in a day. Stone by stone you are building your path. I'm delighted to see you mastering patience and carefully using words to achieve your purpose." A playful sparkle illuminated her beautiful red eyes. "Now, my butterfly dragon, did you really eat the heart of a Dremora, or was that just a masterful stroke of calculating your words for a desired effect?"

I lowered my teacup, cocked my head at Boderi and smiled sweetly. "Would I do that?"

Between Buffy's bag of tricks with everything but the kitchen sink in it - and Polus with a dumbfounded look on his face - this chapter was and remains among my faves! Great Write - AWESOME Chapter !!!