Chp 148: First impressions on the title. "Someones going to be getting a show." And that set my mind into the gutter for the whole chapter. Case in point, the first time I saw Strid River I read it as Stud River.

Buffy (and Savlian) touched on some of their more persistant fears but both decided to step out and dance. Yay!

Chp 149: And back to Kvatch with some 'sore muscles'. Poor Buffy isn't a Bustmer yet, couple more years maybe. Savlian may have ment ostler, but I think Boldan could still teach her to be a hustler.

The Blades make an appearence finally, only took them how many months to figure out what Jauffre intended? Tsk, they need more clear lines of communications and record keeping. Looking forward to Baurus' reaction to seeing Buffy, assuming he remembers her.

Episode 149 saw Savlian and Buffy return to Kvatch and begin settling into both the city’s war time footing and a new life together as the two agreed to share Savlian’s tent. When Lucilius briefed what had transpired during the couple’s absence, it became clear to Buffy that Baurus and a fellow Blade had arrived. She acknowledged that she needed to explain the nature of their business in Kvatch to both Savlian and Lucilius.

mALX- Well, better late than never for poor Baurus. Of course Buffy not coming forward after learning of Jauffre’s death didn’t help. Thanks for enjoying how we tried to use the Orphans Guild to bring out some humor, then slam things right back into perspective as we were reminded of why they are orphans.

McBadgere- Thanks for following the hand squeeze/sore muscles private joke between our couple. The next episode should help to review our treatment of how the Blades fit into things in the story.

Darkness Eternal- A warm welcome to Buffy’s world! I hope my comments above in post #236 helped provide some structure to things.

ghastley- I’m hoping that previous comment I made helped review Buffy & Baurus. You can also expect some review of that in this next episode.

SubRosa- Moria was such fun to write and, in some ways, reminds me of a younger Buffy – just with a slightly different set of ‘-isms’. Yes, Buffy and Savlian are really and finally beyond that tentative uncertain stage and have fully declared for each other. Hopefully, the couple that slays together stays together. Yes, the pieces to free Kvatch are falling into place.

KC- Thanks for your chuckle over Buffy’s sore muscles and some of Moria’s word challenges. Thank you especially for noting that our little elf wasted no time beginning to build a nest in her new canvas home. I always wished the Blades had been more involved at Kvatch. We rather carefully crafted their delay (via the death of Jauffre, etc) to support Buffy’s own delay, but they have finally arrived where they should be – at least a couple of them.

Grits- Thank you. As you pointed out, Savlian does listen carefully. His response to Buffy’s words may not be immediate, but it is clear that her needs factor very heavily into what he does. We’ll see more of that in this next episode. It was important to bring out and diffuse the potential for awkwardness involving Acadian, and this was the first private chance that Buffy had to do that.

TheBrume- Thank you! I’m so glad to see you continuing the tale of Lucius – it is a great story. Yes, this next episode should be a revealing meeting with the Blades, both reviewing the past and painting the way ahead.

liliandra nadiar- Stud River - I love it! Thank you for endorsing our dancing metaphor; the ‘I hope you dance’ theme has woven through this story. I also appreciate you noting the possibility that scrawny Buffy just might continue to ‘blossom’ for a few more years, given how slowly woodsters grow up. Baurus tracked down and met with Buffy right before she left the Imperial City for Kvatch, so she has been hoping for his arrival as part of her effort to get more fighters for Savlian.



“Lucilius should arrive with the two Blades soon,” said Savlian. “Given the implications of why they’re here, I’m surprised you didn’t share all this with me before now. You are not built to bear such burdens alone, Buffy.”

A cool breeze animated the grass on the southeastern edge of the encampment’s plateau. Our shadows, cast by a westering sun, were long over the ground as I looked down to stir the rich soil with a booted toe. After a few moments, I raised my eyes to meet Savlian’s. “Your shoulders are broad, and I know you carry the weight of Kvatch’s future upon them. I’ve sensed the toll it takes on you from the moment we met. I didn’t want to add additional concerns that may be for naught. As I told you and Lucilius, I’m not sure there are survivors - only that it might be possible due to the sustaining power of Akatosh’s altar and his disdain for Daedra. Even if Martin is somehow alive after all this time, I don’t know for certain that he is the son of Uriel Septim.”

“Some of the provinces, especially to the north, border on rebellion and the very fabric of Tamriel is in jeopardy without an emperor,” replied Savlian. “I confess to being somewhat overwhelmed to now learn that the very future of the Empire could be inside our own Chapel of Akatosh.”

“The Blades are here to assess and deal with Martin – if he lives – so you won’t have to,” I said. “After Kvatch is free and your mountain is once again the land of bear and eagle, let us focus on building a life here together. You’ve earned enough scars for a lifetime, Savlian. Someone else can nursemaid a would-be emperor or go fight on the Mara-forsaken border of Skyrim.”

The muscles of his jaw rippled. “But I have a duty to-“

“Serve an ungrateful empire that abandoned you to the very jaws of Oblivion?” I augmented my interruption by assuming ‘the position’ and continued, “Or a legion that has largely ignored your desperate plight? Have you thought about who or what is important to you after Kvatch is free of Daedra?” I closed my big mouth at that point, feeling guilty over my outburst. This beautiful man had so many things to concern himself with beyond the whining of a selfish elf. I knew this wasn’t the time or place for it but, as I looked up into the eyes that held my future, I couldn’t stop my silent thoughts: Savlian, my world has revolved around you for so very long. I’ve given up my home and will freely risk my life for you. You are more important than any empire. Will you ever be able to say the same of me?

“You’re beautiful when you do that.”

“W-when I do what?”

“Flash those blue eyes in anger as you defiantly lift that little chin and plant both hands on your hips.”

I opened my mouth then closed it again. Although disarmed by Savlian for the moment, his words had merely parried my concerns rather than addressed them. Again, I knew he had larger matters on his mind and I should simply drop it for now and support him. I hated it when Acadian told me I always had to have the last word, but I just couldn’t stop the peevish “Fine,” that eventually escaped my lips.

Savlian’s smiling expression turned serious and quite gentle as his hand cupped my cheek. “I know there is much truth in what you say, and I will think carefully on it.”

I turned my face slightly to kiss his palm, then pressed my cheek into his warm, strong hand. “That’s all I ask, Savlian. I trust my future to you.”

The softness in his eyes dissipated as his gaze traveled beyond me. “Here come our guests.”

I turned to see the two men approaching, escorted by Lucilius. I recognized the Redguard, Baurus. The other man, judging from the olive complexion and dark eyes, was a Nibenean Imperial. His black hair was pulled back into a queue. Both men’s brown robes were gathered at the waist by sword belts that each hosted a katana. I could see the toes of leather boots with each step they took. As they drew closer, Lucilius made introductions. “Dame Buffy and Captain Savlian Matius, this is Brother Baurus and Brother Arturo.”

A round of handshakes ensued. I could see now that Arturo was no stranger to violence. His nose had been broken and not healed well. A rather dramatic scar, no doubt caused by a blade, ran from the missing tip of one ear across the same cheek and down to his chin. His face – perhaps roguishly handsome at one time - was not at all favorable testimony to whoever the Blades used as healers. Of course, given the scars that adorned my own man, I -

“. . . to see you again, Buffy. Have you explained why we’re here?” My eyes snapped from Arturo’s face to that of Baurus as I realized the Redguard was speaking to me.

I nodded. “Savlian and Lucilius are aware that you are Blades and why you’re here. I’ve shared with them what I know of Martin, and explained how it’s possible there may be survivors inside the chapel.”

“Good,” replied Baurus. He then turned to Savlian. “Buffy was with me when the Emperor died and clandestinely carried his last wishes to the leader of the Blades. Grandmaster Jauffre was killed, however, before he could share or act on the information. That left Buffy as the only living soul aware of the name and location of the Emperor’s last possible heir. Alas, she is but a small elf in a large land and I lost track of her – until her name recently surfaced in the Black Horse Courier. An article about the Tournament of Archers mentioned her membership in the Mages Guild. Inquiries at the Arcane University allowed me to finally track her down.”

“Yes,” I said to Savlian, “when Baurus found me in the Imperial City, I shared with him everything Jauffre had told me.”

Arturo then spoke, “Baurus presented his findings and recommendations to Acting Grandmaster Steffan at our headquarters, who selected me to join Baurus for this investigation. Traveling as monks, we were waylaid several times by those who would take what little we carry and others merely seeking the blessing of Talos. Thus, it took nearly a tenday for us to get here.”

The Redguard then turned to Savlian. “Captain, given what you’ve heard, I hope you can appreciate our need for secrecy. We hope to avoid rumors, as well as to protect this Martin from assassins if he yet lives and is indeed the heir.”

“I see your need for discretion,” said Savlian, “and you shall have it from us. Is that the reason you present here as monks?”

“Yes,” said Arturo. “The Blades are closely aligned with Talos and our guise is not far from the truth. We hope that, beyond this meeting, you will acknowledge us simply as fighting monks who are here to help eliminate the desecration inflicted upon Akatosh’s Chapel. The fewer ears that hear we are Blades investigating a possible claim to the throne, the better.”

“I’ve known Martin for years. He’s a fine priest, but heir to the throne?” Savlian folded both arms across his chest. One hand then lifted to rub a square chin as his eyes fell upon me. After a long moment, his attention returned to the Blades. “I’ll leave it in your hands to determine matters of the Empire beyond Kvatch. I presume you’re aware that access inside the city is blocked until we can close the damn Oblivion Gate?”

“Aye,” said Baurus. “Captain, we understand who’s in charge here and appreciate your discretion and support of our task. While we’re here, our lives and blades are pledged to your service.”

“I gratefully accept your assistance,” replied Savlian. “Once the gate is closed, we’ll retake the city and you shall have access to the chapel. If Martin has survived and is indeed heir to the Empire, I understand your fealty will shift to him at that point. In the meantime, Lucilius will assign your duties.”

“Captain,“ Arturo exchanged a quick glance with his fellow Blade before continuing, “we do have other claims to the throne queued up for investigation. Do you have a plan and time frame in mind to attempt closing the Oblivion Gate?”

All eyes fell upon the Captain of Kvatch.

“I do.” Savlian looked south toward the Strid River where his attention seemed to linger for several moments. His eyes then traveled north and upward to the edge of the plateau that hid the city. Finally his gaze settled upon me, one eyebrow lifting almost imperceptibly as his eyes searched mine. I was unsure exactly what he had in mind, but I knew I would follow this man whenever and wherever he led. I dipped my chin ever so slightly in a single nod, meant only for him. Savlian then spoke, “Tomorrow morning, Buffy and I will enter the gate. Together, we’ll close it.”

*



Oh no she didn't !!!




I'll bet that doesn't happen often, Acadian's jaw probably dropped, lol.


WOO HOO !!! The Gate !!! Awesome Write !!

Never knew Savlian was a flirt.



Very touchy. So, they seem to be emotionally tied together, it seems. I had to back and read "Horses (and Elves) Need Water" for a better clarification.

"Are you hungry?"

"Only for you.”

Most excellent!!!...

I did very much enjoy this...

I like these Blades...So proper...

And the alignment with Talos thing...

Brilliantly done...

Looking forward to Gateyness...

Nice one!!!...

*Applauds heartily*...

I augmented my interruption by assuming ‘the position’

This could only mean hands on hips and chin lifted She shouldn’t so lightly insult someone she hasn’t met before though. Amused and a little disappointed in you Buffy, though exactly what I expect. I do hope she can convince Salvian to not go running around after this ordeal of closing the gate and freeing the city.

AHHH!!! The Gate!!

Whew, what a relief to have the post- damn Gate discussion with everyone. It was great to see how Savlian responded to “the position” and the f-word.

“I’ll leave it in your hands to determine matters of the Empire beyond Kvatch.

I think that was the answer we were looking for? I know it’s a serious subject, but Savlian’s “damn Oblivion Gate” always makes me laugh.

The whole last paragraph was just beautiful. Savlian’s thoughts were easy to follow through Buffy watching him look around, and the silent communication between the couple was as sweet as the hand squeeze in the last episode. Love it!

“Some of the provinces, especially to the north, border on rebellion and the very fabric of Tamriel is in jeopardy without an emperor,”
This was a welcome piece of world-building, which is to say that without an Emperor, an Empire is naturally in a precarious position.


I augmented my interruption by assuming ‘the position’ and continued,
I loved this! We all know the "position"!

“Fine,”


Baurus' discretion is very prudent. Of course he and Arturo would want to keep their true identities and purpose secret here. The last thing the need is for the Mythic Dawn to learn they missed out in killing Martin, and try again.

“Tomorrow morning, Buffy and I will enter the gate. Together, we’ll close it.”
Yes! After so long we will see the Empire Strike Back, erm, I mean the Kvatch gate closed. Seriously though, it really good to find us reaching the culmination of your tale, and seeing the Daedra thrown back to the pit whence spawned them.

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Feb 10 2012, 03:47 PM

Hey Acadian, how does youre story tie in with other stories concerning the Kvatch Oblivion crisis?

Is there any connections I should look out for? I'm kinda interested in those aspects, because I just find it awesome. And also because I don't like my stories to contradict lore and other stories as well.

This post has been edited by Darkness Eternal: Feb 4 2012, 10:36 PM

I don't have much to say that hasn't been said. Just know that I really liked Buffy and Salvian's back and forth. It seemed quite realistic.

“You’re beautiful when you do that.”

“W-when I do what?”

“Flash those blue eyes in anger as you defiantly lift that little chin and plant both hands on your hips.”

Oh dear. Even when Buffy is giving a super serious view on the situation Savlian still can't resist a good flirt with her

“. . . to see you again, Buffy. Have you explained why we’re here?” My eyes snapped from Arturo’s face to that of Baurus as I realized the Redguard was speaking to me.

Hehe! When I read this I had the most awesome vison of Buffy simply gawping, open jawed. I'm not sure why...

Wehey! It's time for some gate closey-ness! I'm sure Buffy will handle it, but i am still super excited to read the next chapter!

AMAZING!

So as what I can only assume is the near end of this book and it look's like it is going to end with a BANG!

I'm not sure why but Arturo seem's to terrify me with your description of his looks alone! Haha.

Well, as TheBrume noted there isn't alot to say that hasn't already been said; but with THAT said this was an amazing, funny and slightly touching chapter which is leaving me eager for more!

Great work!

Episode 150 carried a strong undercurrent of spoken and unspoken communication between Buffy and Savlian as they began to meld visions of their priorities and future together. Against this backdrop, our couple met with Lucilius, Baurus and Arturo. Savlian agreed to support the Blades’ investigation into a possible claim to the throne and to provide access to the chapel once the city was free. The two Blades pledged their support to Savlian’s efforts until that time. The Captain of Kvatch ended the meeting by announcing that he and Buffy would enter the Oblivion Gate the following morning.

mALX- Hee! It takes quite a bit to render Buffy speechless. Thank you!

Darkness Eternal- Thank you. Buffy and Savlian met ever so long ago and have gradually become emotionally tied together for sure. I sent you a PM touching on Buffy’s rendition of the Oblivion Crisis which is not tied to any other fanfics. Just as the Emperor told her, Buffy plays a role in the Oblivion Crisis, but it will not be her who saves it. We have featured several ‘crossovers’, but they focus on the characters and their natures, generally within isolated story lines rather than trying to meld specifics of disparate game worlds.

McBadgere- Thank you. It seemed so natural that the Blades would travel incognito, and monks of Talos seemed the perfect fit.

KC- It is so gratifying to realize that, given the context, when Buffy said she ‘assumed the position’, readers knew exactly what she meant. She is struggling a bit with her eagerness to fully support Savlian versus her hopes for their future. Some of that spilled out of her in this past episode.

Grits- Thank you. When Savlian said he would leave matters of the Empire beyond Kvatch in the hands of the Blades, Buffy’s heart sang. She is learning that the man does indeed factor her needs heavily and consistently into his decision making. And that is all she was hoping for. Happy elf! Thanks also for noting Savlian’s tradition of using of ‘damn’. We will continue to have some fun with that as it begins to rub off on his impressionable elf.

SubRosa- Thanks for appreciating the long-term effects of no Emperor on the Empire. And for instantly knowing ‘the position’! I just couldn’t imagine the Blades advertising their business by showing up in their easily identifiable armor – thanks for agreeing that their discretion was appropriate.

TheBrume- Thank you for the kind words regarding interaction between Buffy and Savlian as they adjust to actually and finally being a couple.

Tabrasa- Thank you! When it comes to Buffy, Savlian seems to deflect her concerns, then quietly think about them and make the right decision. I loved the effect you described of Buffy’s mouth gaping open during a rare speechless moment.

Rihanae- Thanks for your words about Arturo. We tried to add some interest in a short amount of space. Buffy’s detailed study of his injuries betrayed both her underlying skill as a healer, and frequent ability to ruminate her way into losing grasp of her situation.



Superian and I stood quietly nuzzling each other. This magical time right before dawn was my favorite part of the day for trying to understand things. That I had awakened in Savlian’s arms less than an hour ago continued to be like a dream come true. He understood my need to spend some time with Superian on this day that would see us enter the Deadlands. And I understood his need to write and leave behind a final letter of instruction should we not return. I had left him in our tent with a kiss, and taken from him a promise to soon join me at the stable.

After our meeting with the Blades, the rest of the previous day had been busy with preparations, repairs and inspecting our gear. Savlian had made some adjustments to the shoulder areas of my scale leather armor so it fit notably better than during our training expedition. We had culled down what we would carry to allow for the numerous full waterskins I assured him we needed.

Thoughts of the monumental task ahead had filled my afternoon with trepidation that manifested as a decidedly clingy elf. By the time we crawled into our bedding at the end of the day, I was desperate to be held. Savlian confessed that he shared my apprehension and had pulled me close. Tender kisses and gentle whispers between us gradually pushed aside thoughts of the Oblivion Gate. For a time, Savlian made the fears go away and my body responded to his.

Lovemaking inside our canvas home had necessarily been more subdued than our unrestrained romping on the bank of the Strid River. A sip of Pelena’s potion had worked wonders, restraining my volume to barely audible sighs and chirps. Savlian teased that it did not diminish my ability to provide almost nonstop commentary, albeit at a whisper. Oh, and we were very careful to observe my spell casting positional limitations, lest I set our tent ablaze in a moment of passion.

Cuddled together in the glow that followed, Savlian’s fingers stroked my hair while mine mapped the old scars covering his chest. We agreed that we could feel the Oblivion Gate – both its presence and our approaching time to enter it – return to our tent like an ominous and unwanted guest.

The mare now nickered softly as my fingers busied themselves with imagined tangles in her mane. “My paladin, I have made provisions for Superian, but what will happen to you if I die?”

“I have long wondered when you would ask. The answer, however, is likely to change how you think of your own life. Are you sure you wish to know?”

“Damn it, Acadian! I may get us killed today so don’t pull that with me. I willingly share every aspect of my life with you. When you kept your history with dragons a secret until Peryite revealed it, I thought I made it quite clear that I don’t appreciate you keeping things from me. Now, out with it.”

I could feel the paladin deliberating until finally, more of his words surrounded me, “As long as we enter the Dreamsleave together, we will emerge together. There is no telling what form we might take.”

“B-but I thought I was simply one in a long line of hosts that has sustained you over the centuries?”

“And I must confess that I have not taken steps to dissuade you of that notion,” he replied. “In truth however, you are the long line of hosts. We have taken many forms and identities, often blended together as we are now, other times side by side.”

I scratched my head, feeling more than a little overwhelmed. “You mean we could end up as a pair of Ayleids enslaving humans in the First Era?”

“Yes, or serving them in the Second astride a dragon. Roles, times and places you cannot begin to imagine.”

“A white-bearded wizard and his apprentice?” I asked, unsure why the image popped into my mind.

“Or a sorceress and her black cat familiar,” he replied.

“I don’t remember any of that.”

“Nor would you, Buffy. Your memories begin anew with each form we take – in that regard, you are very mortal. I am the repository of our history, which spans time, distance and even worlds. Although of different species, we have evolved into mutual dependence.”

“And you waited until I was imprisoned in the Imperial City nearing the age of eighteen to initially reveal yourself? I could have used your help when I was younger, you know.”

“I was with you at the moment of sunrise that marked our entry into this life – and every moment after. I wept with you through skinned knees and every taunt about your ears or size. Growing up as a small elf among humans was challenging enough without subjecting you to the additional burden of an unseen presence - until age could permit understanding.”

My head was spinning. “What of Phantom? I have seen her in your – I mean our – dreams and can often feel her presence.”

“She is an enduring shadow of our distant past.” After a moment, he added, “Once loved by a dragon, the bond is eternal.”

“By Kynareth’s wings, Acadian! How am I supposed to process all this?”

“Be at ease, Buffy. Savlian’s job today includes protecting this frail wood elf. With due care, we can live hundreds of years here before we need worry about moving on.”

“Well, I did ask. At least I know that if we do die, I won’t be orphaning you.”

Acadian’s response was silent: I’ll be quite upset if you drag us from the Deadlands into the Dreamsleave, my bowgirl.

“I’m not going to die this day,” I said.

“Not on my watch you won’t.” Savlian’s arrival explained Acadian’s shift to telepathy. My Imperial’s smile yielded to a look of gentle determination. “Buffy, we’re a well-trained team and draw courage from each other. We will rise to whatever is required to bring each other home. It is Oblivia who will not survive this day.”

I mustered a grin of bravado as I tried to set aside the distraction of Acadian’s revelations. “Yes, you and I will finally close that damn gate.”

Savlian gave me a crooked smile and a wink. “Where did you learn such unsavory language?”

“Where do you think?” I playfully poked at the dark wolf head on his camouflaged surcoat.

“Are you hungry?” he asked. “I know we’re taking almost no food that we may carry more water, but nothing says we can’t enter the Deadlands with full bellies.” Savlian presented a small bag. “Weedum-Ja just provided this for us when I stopped by her kitchen.”

We issued carrots to Superian and each of her stable mates. By the time Savlian and I did justice to some bread, a wedge of cheese and some smoked venison strips, the eastern horizon had grown cheerful with the promise of a rising sun. After I tossed a kiss over one shoulder to my mare, Savlian and I started up the hill, each munching a carrot.

Both of us were dressed and equipped the same way we had been during our training expedition to Fort Agarctova, except for less food and a lot more water. I noted Savlian’s leather boots were much quieter than the steel ones he would normally wear defending the barricade.

By the time we passed Camp Defiance, the carrots were gone and my crunching turned to chatter. “Did you finish your letter?”

“Aye,” he replied. “If we don’t return from the Deadlands, Lucilius will find his battlefield commission in our tent and assume full command of Kvatch.”

“A prudent precaution, but it will be unnecessary, I’m sure. We will destroy that gate and bring each other home.” To brighten the mood, I then gave my voice to song - as much for the butterflies in my stomach as for Savlian.

The familiar sights and sounds of the Daedric sky soon loomed overhead. As we crested the plateau, I could see Ilend Vonius’ watch team – including Gladius and Dreelius – arrayed against the flaming portal to Oblivion.

Lucilius and Sigrid both waited behind the perimeter and, as they noted our approach, strode to meet us. “Hail, Milady, Captain.” Lucilius’ gauntleted fist crashed into the wolf on his chest. “You both look dressed to exploit whatever cover and shadow you may find inside Oblivia.”

Savlian lowered his own bare fist from the almost hidden wolf on his subdued surcoat. “Aye. Let’s put her to rest.” He turned to the Nord in blue. “Thanks for being here to wish one of your mages well, Sigrid.” His eyes then returned to his fellow soldier. “What are your questions, Lucilius?”

“I presume you’ve checked over the rigging of each other’s armor?” After Savlian and I both nodded, Lucilius continued, “Both quivers full?”

“Twenty five arrows each,” I replied.

“Plenty of full waterskins?”

“Can’t you hear us sloshing?” joked Savlian.

Sigrid addressed her question to me, “Healing potions?”

“Only a few for me,” I said. “I will heal Savlian if he is in need. I have dispel and restore magicka potions as well. Oh, and a full complement of poisons of course.”

“Repair hammer?” asked Lucilius.

“Nay,” replied Savlian, “Buffy can summon one as we need it.”

Lucilius pulled a pair of rings from the bag that I had given he and Savlian my first day at Kvatch. “You’ll need these.”

Savlian took one of the rings of fire shielding and slipped it on.

I displayed my fingers. “I’m already wearing one. I enchanted it long ago for this occasion.”

Lucilius returned the offered ring to its bag. “I’m relieved to hear that, Milady. That was the smallest of the lot and quite too large for you I’m sure.” His smile faded as he turned to Savlian. “Last minute instructions, sir?”

Savlian nodded. “I know we’ve discussed retaking the city, but I want you to oversee detailed assault planning. Ilend can help with the layout inside the walls, and Merandil can draw up fire support plans. Rely on Sigrid for matters involving healing and the use of mages.”

“Understood, sir.” Lucilius then turned to me. “Milady, inside that gate you will be filling my role as the Captain’s second in command. I’ll rely on you to provide wise counsel, and perhaps a touch of prudence when required.”

My hands found their way around Savlian’s arm. “I’ll bring him back, Lucilius.”

“And you, Savlian Matius,” admonished Sigrid, “don’t break one of my mages. The Kvatch guild chapter attracts few enough as it is.”

He answered Sigrid’s smile with a wink, “Not to worry, Magister. Buffy’s a small target and fits behind my shield just fine.” As if to emphasize his words, he slipped the steel disc from his back and fitted it to his left hand and forearm.

Savlian and I then moved forward into the defensive line. He engaged briefly in comfortable banter with each member of the watch team, culminating with an agreement to bring back any Daedric whiskey we found.

The butterflies in my stomach took full flight at the sound of Savlian’s arming sword sliding ominously from its scabbard. I slipped on my pair of detect life rings to join the one of fire shielding, then pulled Slayer from my shoulder. We moved up to the gate and staged just off to one side in order to preserve a clear field of fire for the watch team.

“Ready, my scout?”

“Yes, my captain.”

I then followed my hero into the jaws of Oblivion.

*




These blew me away! Loved the whole section on their past and possible future, the explanation for why Acadian didn't show up till she was 18. And now, on to the gate !! Awesome Write !!

*

Ohh. . I like how the potions can be added in some situations that does not involve battle or survival, but intimacy. Reminds me of that woman with the Dibella statue in her home who likes to use stamina potions and "Horker horns" and leather straps . I love this part here because it's mostly love rather than base lust.



Yes, wouldn't want to die just yet, now would we? Though I always imagined dying in the Deadlands meant your soul or body getting claimed by Dagon. Hmm. I must do research!

And I love this chapter, because it was simply great with an awesome cliffhanger in the end. Can't wait to revisit Dagon's plane of Oblivion through their eyes! You kept me waiting!

"Damn it, Acadian!"

And Stallion potion...

They're becoming quite a team.

This magical time right before dawn was my favorite part of the day for trying to understand things.
I am not sure if this was intentional, I suspect it is, but this is so appropriate for Azura's Child of Dawn.

That was a brilliant revelation of the Acadian/Buffy bond. I really like this better then the idea of it just being a sudden, chance pairing one night in prison (that sounds creepy in a way I did not intend! ).

Now Oblivion awaits! Oorah!

Savlian teased that it did not diminish my ability to provide almost nonstop commentary, albeit at a whisper. Oh, and we were very careful to observe my spell casting positional limitations, lest I set our tent ablaze in a moment of passion.

How funny! Always a chatterbox. I’m so relieved that they didn’t accidentally invent the spell “Lovers Explode.”

The whole revelation of Buffy and Acadian’s history was mesmerizing. This demanding reader imagines all kinds of possibilities!

Oh, and Buffy’s “unsavory language” had me in stitches. And now (gulp) into the Gate!!

Oh, and we were very careful to observe my spell casting positional limitations, lest I set our tent ablaze in a moment of passion.
I was thinking that it is very fortunate that Buffy isn’t very skilled in destruction magic.

Sounds like Acadian and Buffy have been together a lot longer than we originally thought.

I like Savlian’s entrance. Not on my watch you won’t.

This is exciting! They’ve entered the gate!!