One quick superhero change coming up. In goes Superman - daring adventurer, out comes Clark Kent, mild-mannered Mages Guild member.

Well that was a guild start with Andy and Gabby. It looks like Buffy will have some time on her hands before Galerion arrives.

Eye to eye with another person? Does this mean that this green-haired stranger is perhaps a member of Buffy's own clan perhaps?

It does. Though I suppose it should not be so surprising here an Age past and within the heart of Valenwood itself. I look forward to meeting other Cloud Dancers.

So Buffy actually got "orphaned" twice. First the tree, then her parents as well. I assume that the tree as such has almost as an important role in the life of elves like being raised by actual parents. Or at least it does give them a feel of "being a part of something greater / belonging to something greater".

Great pic - nicely captured Buffy from the back with two braziers at sides and a bright glass window in front of her as a sign of warm welcome.

Does Buffy feel like she "arrived home" in a way?

Previously- Buffy entered the Elden Root Mages Guild, met several mages and confirmed Arch Mage Galerion was expected to visit within a few days. After explaining that she was a paladin whose quest overlapped with a concern of the guild, the guildmagister agreed that he would try to get her in to see the Arch Mage after his arrival. Buffy then met a fellow Cloud Dancer Clan elven mage from the Elden Root Tribe who explained it was customary for visiting Cloud Dancers to pay a courtesy call on the local treethane when visiting the tree of another tribe. Buffy accepted the offer to make such a call midmorning the following day.

*

Renee- “Yes, I am called Buffy,” is just an example of how, when trying to create a favorable impression, she tends to talk in a manner that she considers slightly more formal and that I consider somewhat old world. It is also just one more way to avoid literary redundancy in close proximity (ie: Answering “My name is X” with “My name is Y”). Buffy’s parents escaped the fire that devoured their tribe’s tree (Alderglean) when Buffy was still in the womb. They made their way to Bravil where Buffy was born and raised. Her father (Superior) disappeared during a vampire hunt before Buffy could walk and her mother (Marian) died of disease when Buffy was about twelve. So she does consider herself to be an orphan. Incidentally, Superian’s name is a blend of Buffy’s parents’ names.

Rider- Thanks. Buffy will review Bosmer clans/tribes a bit more in today’s episode in response to questions from Mirri. Mirri asking questions about Buffy and Bosmer is turning out to be a convenient ‘vehicle’ to review aspects of ‘Buffy lore’. Thanks for your comment about Valeria’s sympathy. I was trying to show that, from her perspective, she couldn’t conceive of being raised among humans or not being bound to a graht oak.

SubRosa- The superman change in a phone booth shows how acutely aware Buffy is that what she wears has an impact on how others react to her. Hence, she’ll eventually fill her ‘impressive chest’ with a wardrobe to account for that as well as climate and practical considerations. I’m glad you right away caught that huge ‘eye-to-eye’ clue that Valeria was a fellow Cloud Dancer.

Lopov- The Cloud Dancers Clan are quite connected to whatever tree their tribe live in. Somewhat the way dryads are in D&D. More on that as we progress. Buffy definitely felt something from Elden Root when first she saw it. I think you’ll enjoy it as she learns more about this tribe.



Remembering the shoppes on the lower levels, I headed there to pass some time as well as perhaps find some dinner.

“That robe fits you beautifully.” I turned to look up at the Breton who spoke. Her face was pleasant in a matronly way and framed by a head of black hair, liberally streaked with gray. She continued, “May I ask who tailored it for you?”

“Why thank you,” I replied. “A clothier in Leyawiin named Augustina did the alterations.”

“The name is unfamiliar,” said the woman, “but her skill is obvious. Forgive my forwardness, but the buckskin moccasins you’re wearing hardly do justice to that robe.”

I felt a warm flush of embarrassment. “Augustina told me the same thing.” It was then I noticed she was standing in front of a rather impressive display of footwear.

“I can offer you some fine options if you’re interested?” She looked down at my feet again and added, “Most everything I carry is available in sizes to fit Cloud Dancers.”

Well, she had me with that. A shoe shoppe that did not restrict me to the children’s section! “Might you have some sandals? Perhaps beige or gold colored strappy ones that come up to my knees?”

“But of course, young lady. How about these? Your moccasins look quite new; I’ll give you a significant credit if you’d like to trade them in.”

A few minutes later, with only a slightly lighter coin purse, I was proudly wearing a lovely pair of sandals that, I had to admit, looked much nicer with my robe than the moccasins I had traded for them.

I continued to wander, wide-eyed, among the variety of other vendors. I was just finishing a piece of flatbread wrapped around a succulent sausage when my attention was drawn to a ring. It was gold in color and adorned with a tiny butterfly. It looked quite similar to the one I left behind in Bravil.

“A beautiful ring for a beautiful elf.” The voice’s author was a Bosmer and obviously the owner of this small jewelry stand.

I remarked, “I recently. . . lost just such a ring that I wore on one of my toes for several years,”

“You’re in luck then.” He removed the ring from its display case and placed it in my hand. “Such a clearly refined young lady as yourself will undoubtedly notice the superb craftsmanship used to create this beautiful ring.”

I tried not to smile at the merchant’s silken words and skill with flattery as I turned the ring in my hand. Don’t appear too eager, Buffy.

“Because of the unfortunate loss of your previous ring,” persisted the vendor, “and my special relationship with the master craftsman who created this one, I’m prepared to offer you a price well below its significant value.”

“And what might that price be?” I asked.

“For a mere 250 gold, your lovely toe can once again be adorned with a butterfly. Go ahead, try it on.” He quickly produced a chair for me.

I sat and lifted the hem of my robe to my knees, exposing my new strappy sandals. After slipping the ring over the second toe of my left foot, I announced, “It’s too large.”

“Have no fear, she of small feet, for I have the tools right here to perfectly size it for you. While you wait even.”

“I shall also require the ring to be enchanted with a potent ability to resist frost.”

“Hmm,” he began as one hand found his chin, “you are once again in luck. Should you purchase this ring, I will introduce you to my colleague who owns the enchanting shoppe in this very plaza. His skill with glyphs is unmatched and, with a referral from me, you will find his price very reasonable.”

“I am interested,” I said at length. “Since I will still need to have it enchanted, I’ll offer you 200 gold.”

That earned a wince from the vendor as he sucked in his breath with well-practiced skill. “You drive too hard a bargain, milady. Need I remind you of the skill required to craft such a ring? Or that you are unlikely to find another so closely resembling the one you lost?” After a calculated pause, he added. “I struggle to resist a pretty face though. . . I suppose I could manage to part with this ring for the paltry sum of 225 gold.”

“210,” I countered.

He shook his head. “I would hate to see you pass up such an exquisite piece of jewelry, but 220 is as low as I will go.”

“Agreed,” I said. “Payable as soon as you size it to my toe.”

“Done,” he said with a grin as he extended his hand to seal the transaction.

An hour later, half of which was spent with the enchanter, I was once again wandering among the vendors, occasionally lifting the hem of my robe to admire my new sandals and ring.

*

The following morning, I briefed Mirri on my progress so far to include that I would hopefully be able to meet with the Arch Mage within a few days. I also described my conversation with Valeria and the arrangement I had made to meet with the Elden Root treethane after breakfast.

“So what’s a Cloud Dancer?” Mirri asked while spreading soft cheese over a piece of flatbread.

I finished chewing the bite of pork cutlet in my mouth and reached for a fresh strawberry before replying, “Bosmer form clans, based upon shared beliefs, characteristics and customs. Groups of the same clan who live together form tribes. The Elden Root Tribe in this tree, for example, is part of a clan called the Cloud Dancers.”

“What makes the Cloud Dancer Clan different from other Bosmer clans?” she asked as she lowered her wine goblet to the table.

“Several things,” I replied. “First, each tribe of the clan lives in, and is bonded to, a graht oak. We are very small in size and our bones quite lightweight – almost like those of a bird, ideally suiting us to live among the highest branches. To literally dance among the clouds that frequently obscure the tops of these magnificent trees.”

“I guess having bird bones makes you pretty fragile?” asked Mirri.

"It does," I replied soberly, recalling how the same daedroth who had killed Savlian Matius during the final battle for Kvatch had broken my left upper arm so badly that it took weeks of healing by both priests and restoration mages to repair. I then managed a smile and added, "but that's what I have you for."

“Thanks for your trust, partner. Tell me more about these Cloud Dancers.”

“Our beliefs are different as well. Long ago, when Y’ffre approached the Bosmer offering relief from the curse of the Wild Hunt in exchange for compliance with the Green Pact, most of the clans accepted the offer. Some clans, however, embraced the shapeshifting of the curse and made an accord to control it with Hircine. My clan rejected both Y’ffre and Hircine, instead turning to the Mother of Nirn and the Goddess of Forest and Sky – more commonly known as Mara and Kynareth.”

I paused for a sip of tea then, in response to Mirri’s encouraging nod, continued, “In return for their protection from the curse, we revere and protect the forest as we responsibly use its bounty. We take great care to fully utilize any plants or creatures we take to clothe or sustain ourselves and waste none of the forest’s precious resources.”

“That explains some things, Buffy,” Mirri said. “Your small stature, the strawberries on your plate, the way your eyes lit up when you first saw this massive tree. . . . “

I enjoyed the description of how the Cloud Dancer clan earned its name. It makes perfect sense now.

Wearing a ring on a toe, well that`s clever! And with beautiful sandals it`s even better.

She handled that price quite nicely.

So now it`s off to the enchanter, I guess.

Never fear! I understand Valeria's feelings on the matter - many who are not Bosmer don't really know what that experience of losing their graht oak means to a clan, while a Bosmer would shudder at the thought of it and put it out of their mind as an unbearable loss. Mirri asking questions about Buffy's clan puts me in mind of Lili asking questions about Skyrim and likewise, Sten (and eventually, Sofie) asking questions about Bosmer and Lili's own travels. It's a great way to introduce or refresh a character's backstory to readers.

Shoes! Sized for Tinkerbell tiny Bosmer! I'm sure Buffy will be visiting this shop again.

A butterfly ring! And enchanted with frost! Even though it's technically not the same ring, I'm sure Buffy will think of her friend Jerric often while traveling around Second Era Tamriel. Especially once they find the Ancient Dragon's grave! The haggling that followed was a lesson for Julian! Hee!

Buffy's Kyne's Pact is actually very similar to Lili's Fourth Era Green Pact (according to Lore, cannibalism had pretty much dropped out of favor before the end of the Second Era, though certain rituals still call for it, as already previously mentioned). Looks like our two Bosmer would get along quite well. Fortunately Lili's bones are made of sterner stuff, though still fragile when compared to the likes of Stenvar.

Still looking forward to Buffy's first impression of Venus Galerion!

Ah, see that's what I was getting at for sure: that is something you thought through. She's not just saying "I am called Buffy" as a casual literary way, there's a little method going on. Indeed, such ways of speaking are more old-timey, which I love and appreciate. Blood Raven's the most old-timey.

Thanks for explaining her past. So the parents did make it to Bravil then. Ah-ha! So that's where Superian was derived from. I didn't know her parents' names: Marian and Superior, until now.

The matronly Breton cannot comprehend combining moccasins with such a beautiful robe! Buffy's life in the Second Era is full of fashion faux-pas so far! - Alright, she's got some sandals, very nice.

Yikes "a mere 250 gold...." has she even got that much at the moment? -- Buffy doesn't seem too concerned. She even wants a frost enchantment to be added, yikes, such a demanding little elf!

Very nice, the lore which updates some clans' compassion towards Mara and Kyne. ➕

Hmm, wonder what Mirri was about to say...

Hooray, Cloud Dancer-ready footwear! I can picture the strappy sandals. Great start filling up that trunk.

Oh my gosh, a new butterfly toe ring!! It was fun to watch Buffy pit her formidable bargaining skills against the vendor’s. “She of small feet,” had me giggling. That jewelry vendor was a delight. Three Nordic huzzahs for Buffy’s frost-resisting butterfly ring! May it avail her through snow, ice, and waterfall.

What an interesting conversation with Mirri about Cloud Dancer matters. I love watching their friendship grow.

As soon as that Breton started talking to Buffy about her moccasins, I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. In this case it was literal! And she has footwear in Cloud Dancer sizes!

And a new Resist Toe Frost Ring as well. No one will be able to accuse Buffy of having cold feet from now on.

I really enjoyed the Bosmer World-Building you have at the end here, of the various ways that Wood Elves have sought to evade the Wild Hunt by turning to this or that divine source. I have to say, I prefer the Cloud Dancer's solution to the others on offer.

Green Pact ... or strawberries?

Not a difficult decision to make.

Previously- After concluding her business for the day with the Elden Root Mages Guild, Buffy went shopping among the vendors on the tree’s lower levels. The following morning over breakfast, she briefed Mirri on her progress to date.

*

Lopov - I’m glad you enjoyed learning more about the Cloud Dancer Clan. We put a lot of thought into Buffy’s ‘roots’ to help account for her size and not being a Green Pact carnivore.

Rider- I agree, and you do a nice job of using the dialog between Lili and Sten to expand on the parts of their world the other is unfamiliar with. It makes sense to me that tiny Cloud Dancers would be something the Elden Root vendors are familiar with as far as sizes. In determining the details of the Cloud Dancers’ pact with Mara/Kyne, I’d like to think I was guided to some extent by the American Indian tribes.

Renee- Buffy’s story is so long and involved that I rely on you to help let me know when I need to review bits of it – thank you! Since the Green Pact tribes form the largest clan, most folk in the Second Era tend to think of Bosmer as carnivores. Buffy’s explanation about the Cloud Dancers helped explain Mirri’s observation that Buffy is clearly an omnivore. In ESO, Buffy’s learned that many of the Green Pact Clan are closet omnivores too, secretly eating salads and drinking wine.

Grits- It broke Buffy’s heart to leave Jerric’s ring behind so I knew we had to try and replace it in the Second Era. Buffy’s speechcraft is pretty good, but without her illusion magic to help her cheat, she is somewhat outclassed by a skilled vendor like that Bosmer jeweler. He certainly didn’t lose any gold on the deal but, hey, ‘She of Small Feet’ is happy.

SubRosa- Thank you. I know we’ve talked about the absurdity of the Green Pact before. What always made Buffy's head hurt was the idea that you can't eat grass but you can eat deer. . . but deer eat grass, so . There is a quest in ESO where you are supposed to help a hard-core Green Pact tribe ferret out who in their village picked a flower – so they can put the dastardly petal picker to death. Clearly a quest Buffy will not touch. Like you, she much prefers the Cloud Dancers’ pact.

ghastley- As one of the Bosmer brewers in Elden Root told Buffy, “I learned when I was young that High Elves brew things from berries and grains. I had such an argument with my mother after that. There is essentially no reason to be brewing anything from beetle stomachs.”




After breakfasting with Mirri I returned to the Mages Guild where I was met by Valeria. She led me out of the guildhall and to the door leading to the tree’s upper levels. I saw no handles, mechanisms or even guards but when Valeria placed her hand on the door it dissolved and we stepped through.

We found ourselves in an area featuring what looked like a glowing green portal. “The tree is too large to conveniently climb or walk everywhere,” explained Valeria, “so we use these openings into the tree’s circulatory system to help get around.”

“I wondered about that, given the tree’s size,” I said.

“Tribe members carry some of the tree’s sap within our veins,” she continued. “The tree will recognize this and help move me to where I want to go. And you too if you hold onto my hand.”

I took her offered hand and we entered the portal. We stepped out where a branch large enough to support riding Superian joined the trunk. When I looked down through the broken clouds, folks I could see moving along the ground looked the size of insects.

We encountered several fellow Cloud Dancers as Valeria led me along the branch until we entered a pod shaped chamber, perhaps two horse lengths in diameter. A small firepit in the center was contained within a circle of stones. Additional gentle lighting was provided by glowing mushrooms and lichens that grew along the barken walls. Behind the firepit sat two figures.

Valeria cleared her throat and announced, “Treethane Celelaen Ivyblossom, this is Buffy.”

The treethane was an elf in her prime – those centuries when our appearance changes little. She could have seen forty summers. Or 400. Lavender eyes looked at me from a face unlined by age. Sleek hair the color of snow spilled over her shoulders. She wore a cream-colored blouse that was liberally adorned with beautifully embroidered oak leaves. I could see that her lower body was covered by a forest green skirt. “Welcome to Elden Root, Buffy.” She indicated the figure next to her. “This is Elrihil, our tribe’s shaman."

Elrihil wore a tan robe. Though his features were slightly obscured by its hood, I could discern enough from the lines on his face and grizzled beard to see that he was old. Very old. He nodded. “Welcome, child.”

“I am pleased to meet you both,” I replied.

“Sit, Buffy,” invited the treethane. I did so, sitting cross-legged on the floor like my hosts. “Valeria, thank you for escorting Buffy to my chamber. Leave us, please.”

“As you say, Treethane,” replied Valeria before she turned and left.

Another elf, carrying a tray, entered and all three of us accepted a cup of tea before he left the room as well. I noticed the cups were actually shells of large acorns.

The treethane – Celelaen - took a sip of tea. “Valeria tells me your tree and most of its tribe were destroyed during a thunderstorm while your mother still carried you within. I am sorry to hear that.”

I nodded my acknowledgement.

“May I inquire what tree that was, Buffy?” she asked.

I knew my tree – Alderglean - did not exist in the Second Era for it was but a few centuries old when it was destroyed. I chose my words with care. “My mother never spoke of it, Treethane. I expect she thought I was too young to discuss such matters and was more focused on trying to raise me into the ways of the human settlement in which we lived. Before I was old enough to understand such things, she was taken by disease.”

“Heartbreaking,” commented Celelaen.

“I was fully grown before I discovered I was a Cloud Dancer and learned what little I know of our clan.”

“Tragic,” said the shaman, “to be tribeless and not bound to a graht oak. What of your father, child?”

“Although he escaped with my mother from our tree, he was killed by vampires before I learned to walk.”

A woman burst into the chamber. Celelaen shot her an irritated look. “I trust you have good reason for interrupting us, Melanie?”

“Apologies, Treethane,” replied the breathless elf. “My sister’s water has broken and she’s experiencing a most difficult labor.”

“And is our healer not with her?” injected Elrihil.

“Yes, shaman. She dispatched me here. She fears for the lives of both mother and child and asks that you join her to add your spiritual blessing to her efforts.”

Elrihil looked to the treethane who instantly nodded. “Go to her.”

I said with a tone of urgency, “Forgive my boldness, Treethane, but I am a paladin and healer. I offer my assistance.”

The treethane glanced from me to her shaman. Elrihil spoke. “I have heard of paladins and their healing ability to lay on hands. She should come with me.”

Celelaen replied, “Please go to her. Both of you.”

Elrihil stood up stiffly with the assistance of a staff that had apparently been on the floor beside him. After his staff emitted a brief lavender glow, he moved with the speed of a young elf as he grabbed my hand. We made our way back to the tree’s main trunk, through the same portal Valeria and I had used, emerging this time even higher in the tree. Soon we came to a dwelling sized pod, the shape of an inverted acorn. Elrihil pushed aside the hide covering the doorway.

We were greeted by the sounds of a moaning young elf on a low bed. Judging by her distended belly and raised knees covered by a light blanket, it was clear she was well into labor. Kneeling on the floor beside her was another elf. Elrihil spoke quickly, “Glendril, Buffy here is a paladin. What is the situation?”

Glendril looked up and replied, “Pelaynwen’s baby failed to turn before her water broke and it’s too late to do so now. The child is presenting breech first. This is Pelaynwen’s first, and the child is large. I question whether she can accommodate such a delivery. Mother and child have been struggling mightily and are now both exhausted.”

“I will call upon the powers that sustain us to grant their blessings,” said Elrihil.

I said to Glendril, “May I?”

“Please,” she implored. “I’m fast running out of ideas.”

I knelt on the floor beside the bed. “Pelaynwen, my name is Buffy. I am the Sky Goddess’ paladin and will be assisting Glendril to help deliver your baby. Can you hear me?”

Pelaynwen moaned but opened her eyes and nodded with a pleading look. “Please help me” she managed in a hoarse voice. “I don’t want to lose my baby.”

I could hear Elrihil begin chanting as he implored favor from the Mother of Nirn, Goddess of Sky, and Elden Root itself.

I laid both hands on Pelaynwen’s round belly. Glendril’s assessment was accurate. The baby was positioned breech first and he was exhausted from trying to progress through a birth canal that strongly resisted such an obtrusive delivery. Glendril was also right that it was too late to attempt to turn him.

After doing what I could, I allowed the healing bond to fade and removed my hands. “Pelaynwen, I have eased your pain and that of your baby. I have also restored vigor to your exhausted bodies and infused your birth canal with magic that will allow it to relax and help accommodate the arrival of your baby.”

“I can feel the baby trying again,” she said.

“Good,” I took her hand. Glendril held mother’s other hand. “I need your help, Pelaynwen,” I continued. “When feel your baby struggling to come out, I need you to push.”

She cried out, but I could feel her pushing to help.

“When the child pauses to rest, you must also,” I ordered. “As you feel him trying again, you must push again to assist.”

“Him?” she repeated. “I’m having a boy?”

I nodded just as she cried out again frantically.

“Push, Pelaynwen,” I encouraged as I raised the blanket enough to check her progress. “You’re doing wonderfully, mother, I can see your baby. Let me try to help.” The baby’s last push had forced a small tear but also allowed the baby’s rump to partially emerge. Glendril dabbed at the bleeding as I, thankful for my small hands and tiny fingers, was able to get enough purchase on the baby to assist. “One more big push, Pelaynwen,” I urged, “we’re almost there!” Between her pushing, and me being able to now help pull the child into the world, his slippery body fully emerged, accompanied by another cry from Pelaynwen.

At this point, Glendril knew exactly what to do as she gently took the baby, ensured his umbilical cord was free of his neck and skillfully coaxed him to breathe. I was afraid to breathe for several seconds myself, but finally heard the newborn’s cry and Glendril announce, “Congratulations Pelaynwen. You and Nigel are indeed the parents of a healthy baby boy!”

I laid hands on Pelaynwen. After again easing her pain, I channeled my magic to mend the tear made by the baby’s delivery.

Mother was smiling as tears coursed down her cheeks. Glendril had already cut the child’s umbilical cord before the two of us cleaned him up and placed him at his mother’s breast. I laid hands on the child and was able to confirm Glendril’s assessment.

After we delivered and removed the afterbirth, Glendril and I cleaned Pelaynwen up for visitors.

With mother and noisily suckling son in the care of husband and sister, Elrihil, Glendril and I left them to go brief the treethane.

Elrihil spoke first. “Our tribe is blessed with its newest elf, a fine baby boy.” He then motioned Glendril to continue.

The tribe’s healer briefed Treethane Celelaen in detail on the difficult delivery.

Celelaen turned her gaze to me. “I thank you, paladin, for it seems we owe the lives of both mother and child to you.”

I shook my head. “No, Treethane. It was the skill of Glendril, the blessings invoked by your shaman, and the Sky Goddess guiding my hands that enabled this successful delivery.”

Elrihil spoke, “My Treethane, Buffy is overmodest, for I saw what she did. Buffy has been among us for but a few hours and has already saved the lives of two tribe members. Perhaps this tribeless sister Cloud Dancer has earned a place in the Elden Root Tribe?”

Celelaen looked at me as she took several moments to ponder Elrihil’s recommendation. “What are your thoughts on this matter, Buffy?”

“I-I confess that as I first approached Elden Root, I felt. . . something. . . as if the mighty tree was calling me. . . home. I mean, yes, I’d be honored to join this tribe. . . that is, if the travel my service to Kynareth requires doesn’t preclude it?”

The treethane and her shaman shared glances and almost imperceptible nods before she replied, “It is settled then, Buffy. Elden Root shall be your tribe and home, but you are free to travel as you wish.” She then spoke to her shaman, “Having grown up without a tribe, Buffy may be unfamiliar with some aspects of what it means to be a member of a tribe within the Cloud Dancer Clan. School her, and if she still wishes it, prepare her for the ceremony.”

“As you say, my Treethane,” replied her shaman.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Feb 12 2025, 07:57 PM

Delightful! I enjoyed Buffy's rather laborious introduction to the clan of Elden Root. Am I correct in thinking they are of the same Cloud Dancer tribe as Buffy?

Two nits:
I have to admit this reads as IvybLossom to me, would that be correct? Or did you intend to have the name stand without that "L"?

And in the next paragraph it seems our lovely tree thane lost her closing quote here:

I do admit I had quite a different vision of how the "doors" in Elden Root function, given that they are part of a living tree, but your version works just as well!


As someone who grew up with 26 mature oak trees on a half acre lot, I had to smile at all the comparisons to acorns in this installment. They were a lot of fun when I was little, except when they piled up at the top of steps and rolled under your feet like ball bearings. I used to pretend having tea with them, grinding the flesh down to make "tea" and steeping them in the largest acorn shell . . .

Interesting that you have the child take a more active role in the labor process than is typical. Not nit picking here, just making an observation. You did mention that Bosmer have tree sap in their veins, so . . .

I have to admit my favorite part of the whole installment was when Buffy asked "May I?" before laying hands on Pelaynwen. Too many so called medical professionals don't bother to take the patient's needs under consideration before diving into their assessment of the patient's condition.

I find myself wishing we could spend more time in Buffy's Elden Root, but I fear we must press ahead and address the issue of Drodda the Ice Witch soon.

That is a handy magical door. Ooh, a sap elevator. That reminds me of the odd magical mass transit system that Black Marsh has in the lore.

I liked the acorn cups. Not only tree-themed, but tree itself. That is a nice bit of reusing existing material.

Ah, broken water. An opportunity for Buffy to use one of her more pleasant gifts and help people. Much nicer than using the gifts involving smiting evildoers.

A breech birth. That is dangerous. It is a good thing there are healers present. Phew, that was nerve-wracking. But in the end a safe delivery for all involved.

And it seems Buffy has found herself a new home, perhaps. I suppose we shall have to see what that entails. But if she decides or is forced to remain in this Age forever, at least she will have a place where she belongs.

! 🥗

'Jerric's Ring.' So that ring was a gift from Jerric?

That's so awesome; they can't just climb/walk everywhere, they have to use the veins & arteries (so to say) of the giant tree. Reminds me of Daria's trip to Telvanni territory. Folks are basically living inside a living thing.

Their cups = large acorns!

Okay, wow. So Buffy's home hadn't even begun growing yet. Or wasn't mature enough to live within. [censored].

“Tragic,” said the shaman, “to be tribeless and not bound to a graht oak.

This really hits home. We have ways of saying the same thing on Earth all the time. We don't have tribes (in modern society) and aren't associated with a tree. But there are plenty other ways which mirror our times & place.

Ah, time for Buffy to get to work. For she is indeed a healer. Has she ever been a midwife, though? Doesn't matter; she is up.

Phew. Let me finish reading later; this is getting serious...

Intense indeed, so many emotions rush through; you really lose your mind. Pelaynwen is pretty focused though. She's probably been through whatever equivalent to Lamaze classes they've got in Valenwood. Elrihil is chanting. Glendril has some experience while Buffy performs magic! THAT right there is what we need here on Earth, whatever healing magic can assist. Wonder how far that would go, if we had the option to include Restoration. Some docs from our world refuse to acknowledge even homeopathic aids and treatments, of course...

"I'm having a boy?" -- Sounds like there isn't a magical equivalent of sonograms on Nirn.

Yeah I'd say she's earned her place as an honorary Cloud Dancer. Not only saved the child, but maybe even saved Pelaynwen.

This post has been edited by Renee: Feb 15 2025, 04:10 PM

That was an unexpected turn of events...from a meeting with high-ranking Elves of the Elden Root to helping the woman giving a birth to a baby boy! If it were a daughter, they should have named her after Buffy. Nevertheless, she has now earned her place among the Elves.

Love the tree sap elevator. Not only does it save a ton of climbing for the tree’s tribe, it also saves Elden Root from making a million stairs for them.

“Barken walls,” what a delightfully Bosmer phrase. I enjoyed all the acorn imagery.

Mara bless a labor and delivery paladin with small hands and tiny fingers! Elrihil’s recommendation for Buffy to join the Elden Root Tribe felt perfectly natural after her role in the birth of Pelaynwen and Nigel’s son. I wouldn’t be surprised if Elden Root itself whispered into the shaman’s ear.

Sounds like there is more to being a tribe member than a sap-portal key. I look forward to learning about it.

Also, I’m sure I’m not the only one wishing for a lavender-glowing staff like Elrihil’s, but only if I don’t have to sit cross-legged on the floor!

Previously- Buffy paid a courtesy call on Elden Root’s treethane. The visit was interrupted by news from the tribe’s healer requesting the shamen lend his blessings to a most challenging birth in progress. As a paladin and healer, Buffy was recruited to assist. The delivery was difficult but successful and Buffy was of critical assistance – earning an invitation to join the Elden Root Tribe.

*

Rider- In Buffy lore, tribes are subsets of clans. When Bosmer of the same clan live together, they form a tribe. This is somewhat the opposite of how American Indians do things, where the tribe (or nation) is the bigger group. I expect our portrayal is influenced somewhat by the Clan of the Cave Bear books. At any rate though, yes, Buffy is a Cloud Dancer who has now been adopted into the Elden Root Tribe (of the Cloud Dancer Clan). Sorry for any confusion. Everything about conceiving and birthing elves is difficult – to help compensate for their extra long lifespans. Mirri will actually quote Berenziah later in this book: ‘Elven children are slow to come, and most demanding of their welcome.’ As you know, only the first two levels of Elden Root are available to explore in ESO. I join you in wishing we could spend more time exploring the upper areas where, in Buffylore, her new tribe lives. Since I envision Elden Root as Buffy’s ‘home’, I hope to gradually have her share more of it perhaps in the future. Thanks so much for pointing out those two nits so I could quickly fix them.

SubRosa- I remember using a vine/pulley/pod system to have Buffy get around when she visited a tribe of Cloud Dancers in their graht oak back in Book 2. Using the tree’s ‘circulatory system’ for Elden Root was an evolution of thinking to what I believe to be a better system. Buffy is indeed forming bonds in the Second Era. At the moment, she’s trying not to think about her future after she completes the quest that sent her there. She’ll have to face that before the end of this book however.

Renee- Yes! Jerric gifted Buffy an enchanted toe ring of resist frost for her birthday quite a few years ago via some magic arrangements between Acadian and Grits. She is delighted to have found a replacement, for both sentimental as well as practical reasons. I’m glad the baby elf's delivery seemed intense – it certainly was for Buffy. Yes, having a paladin lay on hands can serve as a sonogram!

Lopov- Heh, I actually thought about the baby elf being a girl and having the mother name the child Buffy. But then. . . who would name a medieval fantasy wood elf something as silly as 'Buffy'?

Grits- I’m so glad the invitation for Buffy to join the Elden Root tribe felt natural after Buffy helped deliver their newest member – that was my hope. Given how important the Sky Goddess is to the Cloud Dancers, it also seemed natural that the tribe’s treethane would be receptive to welcoming Kynareth's paladin into her tribe - even granting errantry to travel as she needs. Buffy will explain some of the perks of her new tribe in today’s episode.




“So, the tribe’s shaman and I discussed Cloud Dancers much of yesterday afternoon before the ceremony,” I said to Mirri over a bowl of porridge and cup of tea. “I didn’t realize, for example, that Elden Root is actually a different variety of graht oak called an elden tree. They’re much larger of course and this one, along with Falinesti, are the only known such trees. Both are considered among the oldest living things in Tamriel.”

“I’ve often wondered why Elden Root is so much bigger than other graht oaks,” Mirri replied as she finished up a plate of what she said were kwama eggs. “What was the actual ceremony like, Buffy? Did you have to munch on bark or such?”

I smiled while peeling a tangerine but continued, “Well, I guess the most significant part was when the shaman made a small cut across the palm of my hand and another similar one into the tree. When I pressed our wounds together, I could feel our blood and sap intermingling. I now carry some of Elden Root’s sap in my veins and the tree carries a bit of my blood – along with the blood of thousands of those who came before me as members of this ancient tribe.”

Mirri paused her wine goblet midway between table and mouth. “But you are free to come and go?”

“Of course,” I replied. “The tribe and tree mutually protect each other. If Elden Root is in danger, I will feel it. No matter where I roam, I can instantly return here.”

“That sounds like a handy ability, Buffy, to recall here without a wayshrine.”

I nodded. “We’ll have to test it to see if by holding hands you can travel with me like we can with wayshrines. There are some other benefits as well,” I continued. “For example, because Elden Root’s sap flows through my veins, blood suckers – from mosquitoes to vampires – will now find my blood distasteful. Yet there is way too much blood still flowing through me to draw the interest of things that suck sap.”

“Lucky elf!” she teased.

“I am, but not because of that. You see, I’m an only child and my parents are dead. I didn’t even have a place to call home,” I looked around at the tree surrounding us, “until now.”

She smiled. “Then I’m happy for you, Buffy. “Where did you actually come from?”

I chose my words carefully. "The tree of my original tribe was destroyed by a thunderstorm, forcing my parents to flee while I was still in the womb. I was born and raised south of the Imperial City in a town called Bravil.”

Mirri winced and sucked in her breath. “I can guess. As the Three Banner War encroached, you lost your family but managed to escape.”

“And here I am,” I replied. “How about you, Mirri? From where do you hail?”

“I was raised in Balmora on the isle of Vvardenfell and my parents still live there, but I maintain a home in the province of Malabal Tor. The house is not large but its location is convenient as it overlooks both a wayshrine and settlement of Bandaari traders who keep an eye on the place when I’m not there. I must take you there, sometime.”

“I’d like that,” I replied. “Oh, the Guildmagister confirmed that Arch Mage Galerion is due to arrive late this afternoon. He said he’d speak to the Arch Mage on my behalf and try to schedule an audience for me – perhaps as early as tomorrow.”

“Hmm,” said Mirri as she placed two fingers alongside her cheek, “How’s your coin purse faring?”

“It still has a pleasant jingle, but I confess I noticeably lightened it my first evening here for these.” I raised one foot so Mirri could see my purchases. “The ring’s enchanted with resist frost.”

She took my foot into her lap and looked more closely. “These sandals and the toe ring are lovely, Buffy!”

I smiled, both surprised and pleased. “So you do have a girly streak in you, my partner! At least a little one.”

The blue-gray tone of her skin darkened somewhat in what I imagined was a Dunmeri blush. “You caught me but don't tell anyone.”

I grinned, and was again surprised to see her briefly do likewise. “Why do you ask about my coin purse?”

“It seems we both have light dance cards today so I thought we might visit the Undaunted enclave here in Elden Root to check their job board for something simple and local. A chance to augment our coin purses and further hone our ability to fight together. What say you?”

Once again, I was thankful for all the history books I read while attending the Arcane University. I knew that the Undaunted was an intrepid band of dungeon explorers that did not survive into the Third Era. I hefted my not quite full coin purse again. “If the task is honorable and we are able to return by this evening, I should be happy to accompany you.”

*

Less than an hour later we arrived at another wayshrine – this one in northern Grahtwood. “According to the map,” said Mirri, “our contact is just down this trail, outside the Ayleid ruin of Wormroot Depths.”

I frowned. “That sounds inviting.”

“We’ll see, I guess,” she replied.

After I attuned myself to this new wayshrine, we conjured our horses and rode along a jungle path flanked by palms, dense ferns and a variety of vine-covered trees. I recognized a patch of low growing flowers and stopped to harvest some of their roots. Mirri remained on Gray, watching curiously. As I remounted Superian I explained, “These keep well in my pouch as they dry and, as their name – soaproot - suggests, lather into a lovely soap that gently cleans both elfskin and buckskin without removing natural oils. I’m used to carrying plenty of such supplies, but after losing everything I’m trying to restock as I can.”

It was but a short distance farther before the verdant canopy under which we rode thinned enough to admit rays of midmorning sun and we found ourselves entering a clearing. Two weatherworn tents flanked a campfire that hosted a cooking pot. An elderly Breton, in the robe of a guild mage, sat on a stool and was using a crate for a makeshift table as he busily wrote in what appeared to be a journal.

As we drew closer, he stood to face us. “If you’re looking to rob me, there is nothing of value here in my small camp. If you insist however, I must warn you that I am not without the ability to defend myself.” He emphasized his point by conjuring the glow of fire magic into one hand.

We stopped our horses and dismounted. I could see now he was indeed old, replete with both hair and beard of gray. “Be at ease,” I said, “for we mean you no ill, nor do we have designs on your belongings.” Since I had changed from my robe into buckskins before leaving Elden Root, I summoned the guild’s blue glowing magic symbol to my hand to identify myself.

The magic in his hand faded to be replaced with a conjured symbol matching the one I displayed. “Forgive my caution, guildsister, for there have been bandits about. I am Archimbert Dantaine, but folks call me Bert. What brings you to my research camp?”

Mirri answered, “I’m Mirri and this is Buffy. We have an Undaunted contract to assist you. I understand there is something in nearby Wormroot Depths you wish to have retrieved?”

“I am indeed glad to see you then!” he replied. “Yes, I’m a scholar and my specialty is the magic of Ayleid light.” He dug into a nearby sack and produced a dull crystal the size of his fist. “I am trying to unlock the mysteries of this Ayleid crystal but, as you can see, it is quite devoid of magic right now. I am convinced that it can be filled at an Ayleid well and happen to know there is one in the bowels of the Ayleid ruin that is now ignorantly called Wormroot Depths. Alas, the ruins are currently infested by Daedra and, well, I’m an old researcher, not a battlemage. That fire magic I displayed was mostly a bluff.”

“And you’d like us to take your crystal into the ruins, find this Ayleid well and recharge it,” I surmised.

He nodded, looking hopeful.

Mirri and I looked at each other briefly before she announced, “We accept your task, Bert.”

“Thank the Eight!” he replied. “May I offer you a bowl of potato, leek, white cap and carrot stew? It’s nearly ready.”

“Thank you but no,” answered Mirri. “Give Buffy your crystal and we’ll seek your Ayleid well straightaway.”

This post has been edited by Acadian: Feb 20 2025, 09:43 PM

That's a deep connection between Buffy and the tree.

Mirri is eating kwama eggs! That brings back some memories of kwama mines from Vvardenfell.

Hi Bert!

Being an experienced explorer of Ayleid ruins from Cyrodiil, Buffy probably already knows what to expect (more or less).

I love that Elden Root and her elves protect each other. Buffy’s new home is much more than just a place to live. Tree sap bug repellant is the best perk so far!

What a delight to discover Mirri’s girly streak. It’s fun to see their friendship growing.

Archimbert! He is so charming. Jerric stops to say hello every time he passes.

The ride through the Northern Grahtwood forest was especially pleasant to read as there is a rare snowfall outside my window. I can just imagine the bird and animals sounds – and best of all, no bug bites!

Yay, we get to spend time with Mirri again!

I almost broke out in laughing at her line about munching on bark!

On a serious note, I loved the blood-bonding ritual between elf and tree, and all that it entails.

Some careful dancing there by Buffy while relating her past, and allowing Mirri to fill in the blanks on her own, rather than reveal that Buffy's past is in fact, Mirri's future.

So Mirri and Buffy are going to participate in the local gig economy for adventurers and take a shift driving an Uber slaying baddies. It's good work, if you can get it.

From the looks of this Breton academic, I wonder how well this job might pay. But in the very least, they will get a full belly from it afterward. Still, there might be some valuable loot to be had within the Ayleid ruin (as there often is), along with Daedra bits that alchemists might pay for. Plus it is a good opportunity for Buffy and Mirri to work together once more.

Wormroot Depths! Whoo!

First, one nit, or maybe not a nit. ZOS spells it MalabAl Tor, but I see you have spelled it MalabOl Tor. Perhaps that was intended?

Like Jerric, my gang always stop to visit Bertie whenever they visit Wormroot Depths (as it is the locale for additional quests added by subsequent DLCs). Sometimes Julian will take a ride up that road just to check in with him.

Mirri's moment of girliness really does a lot to lighten her character and make her more of an unexpected delight.

And Buffy's collection of herbs along the way puts me in mind of a repeating mental dialogue between my character and their companion: "Stopping again? Do we really need to collect that?" "Yes, never know if you might have need of it."