Buffy the Bowgirl, Book 1, Thread 2, Do You Know the Way to Kvatch? Options

[Acadian]

Welcome to Thread 2, or the second season of Buffy's Book 1!

This book began with Buffy being briefly incarcerated in the Imperial Prison and will end as she attempts to bring freedom to the city of Kvatch. It is a sprawling story that will require more than 150 episodes, spread over five threads. Appropriately, I have nicknamed Book 1, 'Do You Know the Way to Kvatch?'

Thread 1 included episodes 1-26.

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Please allow me to offer a small summary of Thread 1 that I hope might prove useful as a review, or for those who are joining us in progress:

Buffy witnessed the death of Uriel Septim VII in the Imperial Prison. She eventually delivered the Amulet of Kings to Jauffre, who treated her rudely. Buffy's response to this, of course, was to drop the amulet on his desk and storm out.

At one point in her travels, Buffy encountered an Oblivion gate at Kvatch. Terrified, she quickly heeded the orders of Savlian Matius to leave the area. In their brief encounter however, Buffy seemed drawn to the brave Captain Matius - quite struck by his noble and selfless bravery. She was confident the Empire would resolve the situation that she considered well beyond her meager ability to influence.

Our orphan from Bravil then began to refine her confidence and skills toward adventure, even recently graduating from the Arcane University as a mystic archer.

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Now, for those newer readers who would like to catch up to us in one short sitting, you might find this helpful: Buffy – The Executive Summary Thread.

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When we last left Buffy, she had just earned the Star of Azura. It seemed her immediate plans were to dispatch some minor chores in the Imperial City, then head home. We now join Buffy, in the City of Mara.

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27 Graduation Party

"Hmph, she doesn't look like much of a mage to me," snorted Fathis Aren. "More like a half-dressed wood nymph running around with a bow most of the time. Thankfully, somebody at least coaxed the little forest creature into a proper dress tonight."

The Bravil guild was assembled at the dining table enjoying a meal in celebration of my graduation from the Arcane University. It had been delayed for several weeks because our guild head, Kud-Ei, had been visiting relatives in the Black Marsh. I was seated across the table from Fathis Aren. His words silenced the room.

I set my fork down and said icily, "I wasn't aware that your approval of my appearance was required." Fathis had been abusive towards me for some time. I guessed it was because I had, on more than one occasion, deflected his amorous advances. It seemed he liked 'wood nymphs'. I might have thought that humorous but, at the moment, there was nothing suggesting humor in the dark elf's dangerous manner. There was also no doubt that his magic skills vastly exceeded my own. To make matters worse, my bow was at home. It had never occurred to me that I might need to defend myself within the sanctuary of my own guild. Despite the blue gown that Delphine had kindly 'coaxed me into', I felt quite naked.

The Dunmer sorcerer coldly returned my gaze, seemingly unimpressed. "I'll caution you, young Apprentice, to mind your tone when addressing the Staff Wizard to the Court of Bravil." His hand was glowing menacingly and just a hint of sparks danced from his fingers as they drummed the surface of the table.

I felt my anger simmering as I slowly stood up. I knew I couldn't cast a spell to defend myself if I was seated. I was unsure if the powerful wizard across the table was similarly constrained, or whether his sparks were just for show.

Fathis' eyes remained locked on mine as he leaned slightly forward. With one elbow on the table, he slowly raised that ominously glowing hand towards his ear. The slight sparking between his fingers intensified slightly.

Kud-Ei, from her seat at the head of the table, stood as I did. "You just hold it right there Fathis!" The glaring Argonian crossed her arms defiantly over her chest. "I'll do anything for my girls. You may be someone important over in that castle, but this is my guild house. What has gotten in to you? Did the Count yank your chain today? If you think you can come in here and try to intimidate one of my mages, you have another thing coming. You just stop this nonsense right now and mind your manners, or get out of my guild! Is that clear?"

By now, Delphine Jend was also on her feet, with deadly resolve in her eyes. I realized Kud-Ei could instantly paralyze the sorcerer or take control of his mind if she chose. Delphine on the other hand, could freeze Fathis solid, then shatter him like a block of ice. Fathis might have been a match for one, but he could not hope to survive the pair of formidable guild mates now standing on my behalf. Mystical energy and tension pulsed through the room, causing the hair to rise slightly from the back of my neck. The power of these giants of magic dwarfed the pathetic flare spell, or even dancing cobra that I could cast.

If there was any emotion in Fathis' red eyes, it didn't show. He continued looking directly at me while addressing the head of the Bravil guild. "Why Mother Kud-Ei, I meant no offense to your young charge." The glow slowly faded from his hand as he reached for the goblet in front of him. "In fact, let me propose a toast to your newly returned graduate." He raised his goblet.

Fathis caused us no further trouble that evening. I had always admired and looked up to Kud-Ei. I now loved her dearly, and was so very proud to be one of 'her girls'.

After dinner, Ita Rienus pulled me aside. "Don't worry too much about Fathis. He fancies himself quite the ladies' man, and I know he's been pestering you. You're an attractive young elf with a beautiful heart and spirit, Buffy. To Fathis however, I suspect you simply represent another potential notch for his bedpost. That his advances have turned to insults is, oddly enough, encouraging. It means he realizes he's lost this conquest. I'm sure he'll move on to another soon.

Still shaken by the encounter, I asked, "Did you see how cold his eyes were, Ita? Do you think he will try to hurt me?"

"Oh my, he did scare you, child." The older Imperial's eyebrows furrowed with concern. "I truly don't believe you're in danger. Even though he's not in our chapter, Fathis is still subject to the rules of the Mages Guild Charter just like the rest of us. He won't cross the Council of Mages by hurting a member of the guild. It would risk his cushy position at the castle."

"I'm sure you're right. As much as he angers and frightens me, I hope someday he finds that special woman who can capture his heart," I smiled sweetly and added, "so she can break it and leave behind a crushed shell."

Ita's eyes widened, then she returned my smile. "Well I guess it's true enough that Oblivion hath no fury like a woman scorned. . . but enough of this kind of talk." Changing the subject, she said, "You look as pretty as the Dangerous Delphine tonight."

"Thank you." I blushed. "I'm afraid I didn't give her much to work with, but you know our irrepressible Delphine; she couldn't resist the challenge." I held up my arms, clad in blue velvet, and playfully spun around once. "Here I am, in one of her dresses. She even provided some of her jewelry for the night, and taught me another way I can arrange my hair."

Ita stabbed a finger at the air over my shoulder. "Look, here comes the Diva of Destruction hersel-"

"Oh there's our graduate!" Delphine breezed into the conversation. The bubbly Breton smiled and fussed busily with the neckline of my dress as she continued, "Now, isn't this much nicer than wearing those. . ." she wrinkled her nose, "animal skins you and Daenlin seem to favor?"

I couldn't help but smile. "Thank you for the fashion assistance, Delphine - and for standing on my behalf at dinner."

She frowned and lowered her voice - both were unusual actions for Delphine. "Listen, if that green bag of wind who does parlor tricks for the count bothers you again, you just let me know. I'll turn him into a chicken!" Without pausing for breath, her face brightened and she was off to another subject. "Don't worry about those destruction grades you got at the University, Buffy. We'll have you blowing things up before you know it. Why, we'll start with crates and barrels," Delphine's hands started dancing descriptively, "then work our way up to small buildings, then -" her eyes darted across the room. "Oh is that Carandial I see? You ladies simply must excuse me." As quickly as she had whirled into the discussion, Delphine was off again.

Ita shook her head, but smiled fondly as Delphine flittered away. "I get tired just watching her." The Imperial's eyes suddenly sparkled as she plunged a hand into the folds of her burgundy skirt and produced Azura's Star. Placing it in my hand, she said, "Thanks for letting me study this for the past couple days. It is indeed everything we had hoped for, and I know it'll serve you well."

"I'm very fortunate to have earned Azura's favor, Ita. I think she liked me. Thank you for sharing the legend with me and putting up with my badgering questions."

Another guest that evening was Ungarion. The Altmer owned 'A Warlock's Luck', the magic shop in Bravil. He was not a member of the guild, but visited us routinely. As the evening was winding down, he approached, smiling. "Let me add my congratulations and welcome home to you!"

"Why thank you Ungarion. I'm pleased that you joined us tonight." I looked up into his eyes and could see that he had more to say. Tilting my head pleasantly, I invited him to continue.

Ungarion dropped his voice and lowered his head towards me. "Buffy, some of your recent. . . ah, how shall we say this. . . adventures have come to my attention. In fact, there is a matter I would very much like to discuss with you," a single eyebrow climbed his forehead as he added, "privately. Would you do me the honor of sharing a meal in my store tomorrow after hours?"

I was intrigued. The high elf was a respected merchant and had always been kind to me. After a moment I replied, "Ungarion, I'd be pleased to. See you tomorrow then."

After the party was over and I was home in bed, I thought about the events of the evening. Buffy, what were you thinking, standing to confront Fathis Aren? Were it not for the intervention of Kud-Ei and Delphine, you could easily be dead now.

When I was insulted, I did or said dangerously stupid things. I was sure Fathis had hoped I would cast a silly flare spell or some such at him. Yes, that would have given him a handy self-defense justification to turn my bones into ash - which I had no doubt he could do. I thought about Boderi's characterization of me. Someday, my dragon spirit would really get my butterfly butt into trouble.

The episode with Fathis reminded me of my confrontation with Earana in Chorrol, after giving the 'Fingers of the Mountain' book to Teekeeus. My angry words overrode prudence there also. Were it not for the watchful Chorrol city guard, that incident could have meant my death. Unlike Fathis however, Earana was not a member of the guild. She was not restricted by the rules - but neither was I.

I had been back to Chorrol on several occasions since my first encounter with the rogue mage. Each time she had become more threatening. I was convinced that her death or mine was inevitable. Further, I firmly believed whoever chose the conditions and struck first would survive, while the other would not.

As I drifted off to sleep, my thoughts turned to Ungarion. What sort of mysterious business did the merchant of magic trinketry have in mind? Oh well, I would find out the next evening.

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From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

This post has been edited by Acadian: Oct 28 2011, 10:24 PM

[Acadian]

In Chapter 34, Buffy accepted a request from the University to look into the death of a mage killed by necromancers near the shrine to Meridia. She proceeded to the shrine and learned that the murderous black robes were holed up in nearby Howling Cave.

Tiny announcement: I went back and changed the episode that revealed Slayer's enchantments (Chapter 20). I changed the fire damage component to shock damage. I didn't want to deal with the bow burning off the clothes of its victims. Some arcing and sparking seemed more appropriate.

hazmick- Thank you! How Buffy's interest in Daedra Lords evolves over time will be an undercurrent for quite some time.

treydog- Realizing that Merida wanted an undead offering, I couldn't resist dredging up Buffy's hair conditioner recipe. It is the same one she shared with Alawen in BF 1.0. Thank you for picking up on the trust placed in her by several within her guild. It is not lost on her, and she willingly returns their loyalty. Despite the fact that she doesn't 'look' like a mage, the guild is indeed much like a family to her. Thank you.

mALX- Thank you! Buffy does indeed seem to somehow sidestep her way into quests sometimes.

Rider- Thank you for your inspiration that helped me spark the Valley of Horses to life. Aye, 'tis a magical place. Thanks for the nit; I agree and smoothed it out.

SubRosa- Thank you. Buffy makes me work very hard on the 'why' she would do something (like take on a quest). Hair glop - It was actually you and Teresa that caused me, long ago, to think in terms of creative uses for the alchemy ingredients in game. Imp chips and ectogoo - they're not just for potions and poisons anymore!

Grizzly- Thanks for the kind words. As Buffy deals with the necrodudes in the next episode, I hope you will see her 'cuddly like a rattlesnake' dichotomy on display.

Destri- Thank you. As I alluded above, I hope you will enjoy how Buffy's involvement with Daedra Lords evolves through several stages.

Foxy- One of the most precious compliments you have ever given me was likening Buffy to 'comfort food' a long time ago. I am quite honored to receive another such comment. Thank you!

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35 By the Detritus of the Profane, Part 2

An iron bowl hosted a flickering blue flame just outside the entrance to Howling Cave. Bright midday sun filtered through overhead branches, casting dappled light upon the otherwise shaded floor of the small grassy meadow. The same breeze that animated the gently swaying treetops, carried the smell of death. Birds cheerfully sang above the tranquil setting that was decorated with gravestones, open coffins and the remains of men or mer in various states of decay. A statue depicting an ominous robed figure seemed to be guarding the heavy wooden door.

Slipping to the ground, I patted the shoulder of my nervous mare as her nostrils fluttered at the smells. My hand reached for the comfort of Slayer, and I quietly entered the cave.

The odor was stronger in the musty darkness. I could detect several well-dispersed life signs in what seemed to be more abandoned mine than cave. Stalking with methodical care, I killed several rats, a couple zombies and one skeleton. No necromancers - only a door that appeared to lead deeper into this foul-smelling place.

As soon as I entered the next section of this cave, I pressed my back against the door and involuntarily sucked in my breath. There was a forest of large pink glows nearby. With a panicky flick of my wrist I disappeared. I now had a moment for my pounding heart to slow and sort this out.

I was at the end of a short tunnel. The candlelit chamber ahead was full of life signs. I could see a mixture of zombies and necromancers moving about, still unaware of my presence - perhaps half a dozen figures, and all quite close.

Now what, Buffy? Maybe I could convince them to reduce their own numbers. I would need some help though.

One of the necromancers stopped, giving me a clear shot. Forming an emerald globe of energy in my right hand, I sent it swirling towards the black-clad figure.

The black robe I had tricked into becoming my ally, quickly summoned a zombie and attacked his comrades.

I immediately released a lavender glow in front of me, from which a ghost materialized. He floated towards the chamber and began casting magic waves of cold into the fray. Perhaps we could cut this crowd down to something more manageable.

Between the taunts, screams, groans and summoning auras, it was difficult to judge what was happening in the swirling sea of pink ahead. Eventually however, the combat stopped. The survivors began searching for my ghost, but he had expired during the fight. I disappeared again as a mist of magicka settled over me.

It seemed the black robes were smart enough to suspect the source of their problem was near the entrance door. There were now two of them within arm's length, glaring at the space occupied by my invisible form. Turning sideways, I threaded a path between them. Continuing past the hanging spiked ball trap that someone or something had triggered, I entered the chamber ahead.

The cavern contained two dead necromancers and one zombie that was alive - or undead, or whatever zombies were. I cast a spell to command him (it?), then another to resummon my ghost. I backed deeper into the shadows as both my allies attacked the two black robes still posted by the entrance door.

Oh for Meridia's sake! I rolled my eyes in frustrated irritation as each of the necromancers summoned their own zombie. This was getting ridiculous. Undead fists and steel daggers passed harmlessly through my ghost as he struck our foes with icy fingers. Finally the fighting ceased, leaving once again, two necromancers blocking the exit.

I snuck into a corner to rest a moment and sip a potion to help recover magical energy faster.

Fortunately, these two necromancers made no attempt to detect my life sign in the dark. Rather, they seemed intent on waiting for intruders to emerge through the door they continued to guard. Were they apprentices, who simply didn't know how to search for pink glows? Or, since they hadn't actually seen me yet, perhaps they believed my ghost was the only threat they faced. Either way, I felt more comfortable with the odds now. I could feel my grip on Slayer changing from that of the prey to that of the hunter.

With my appetite for magicka sated, I crept back to where I could see the door. I cast a command spell at one of the necromancers. Each summoned a zombie (of course), and a balanced fight began. I selected and applied a poison that would both kill and prevent spell casting.

Finally, I nocked the first arrow of this fight. Over its tip, I watched the Buffy team battling the black team. Presently one of the necromancers was killed, his zombie evaporating. The other summon quickly expired.

A moment later, the lone survivor was jerked violently by the impact of my arrow. He staggered against the door and collapsed. One of Slayer's enchantments caused arcing sparks to dance around and through his body for a moment. He managed to struggle to his feet. Dazed and unsteady, he leaned his back against the door behind him. I could now see an emerald tinge, that I found quite beautiful under the circumstances, had blossomed into his face and hands.

I nocked a second arrow that could impale the necromancer to the heavy wooden door, then paused to watch him. He raised a fist. I smiled to see that no orange aura formed. No zombie materialized to his aid. He was unable to cast spells, and his life was slowly yielding to my poison. I chose to let his torment linger, staying the arrow that could have delivered instant death.

He stared into the shadows that hid me. In pain and confusion he tried over and over to cast a spell until he succumbed. I returned the arrow to my quiver and relaxed a bit. Amazingly, I was unscathed.

Shouldering my bow, I slipped on a ring of light to see better, and reached for my hunting knife. I checked the necromancer's corpse and completed the bloody task of recovering my arrow.

A search of his robe, and those of his companions revealed some gold coins, potions, spell scrolls and a black soul gem. Recalling that part of my task here was to gather evidence, I collected up the items. I then removed one of the robes that was undamaged by arrow or dagger, rolled it up and placed it in my pack.

After removing the ring of light, I slid Slayer from my back. There remained one distant life sign within the considerable range of the two rings I wore. I cast a spell to temporarily boost that distance even further. Still, just the one glow. By its shape and movement, I assessed this to be a fifth, and final necromancer.

I explored the cave in vain, for clues that could explain the brazen daylight assault that had killed one of our mages and a follower of Meridia. Finally, only the last necromancer's cavern remained. It was dimly lit by candles.

Silently blending into shadow, I approached until I could see that this black robe was wearing a hood; I guessed that meant he was probably the leader. On one of the walls, hung a filthy red and black banner bearing the skull and bones symbol of my enemies.

A corpse was hanging by its feet in the cavern. I knew it wasn't Phane Thierry, who had been killed near Meridia's shrine. The young mage's body had been recovered by the Skingrad chapter, and was buried next to the Great Chapel of Julianos. The cemetery there was well-patrolled by guards, especially after Phane's death.

No, the body suspended from the ceiling of this foul cave was that of some other poor nameless victim. Entrails protruded from an incision running from his breast bone to his crotch. As a hunter, I knew this man or mer was being field dressed like a deer or boar.

Because of the chamber's layout, this would be a fairly short range fight. After applying another combination poison, I fit the tail of my broadhead arrow to Slayer's silk bowstring. Tracking the target with the tip of my arrow as he moved about the cavern, I waited patiently.

He stopped in front of the corpse. Working with a knife and tongs, he started removing organs.

I was glad for my anger, as it prevented nausea.

The impact of my arrow from this range propelled the necromancer into a nearby wall, and forced the air from his lungs. Thanks to the bow's enchantments and some quiet sidestepping, my exact location remained uncompromised. The black robe was unable to cast spells and too badly injured to stand. His life was quickly draining from his body as he stared with confusion at the poisoned arrow imbedded deeply in his chest.

I stepped from the shadows, with another arrow nocked just in case. "You'll be dead in a moment," I purred to the necromancer. "Perhaps I should reanimate you and we could do this a few more times? Would you. . . enjoy that?" I dropped the seductive tone before continuing, "As I told one of your dead comrades in Vilverin: No warning, no quarter."

His eyes registered my words, then rolled back in his head and closed. As the pink glow faded from his body, I added, "Oh, I forgot. I don't know how to reanimate things anyway. Sorry."

I knew clearing this cave had been a necessary task, but I made no pretense of being noble or righteous about my motivation. I had enjoyed killing these necromancers. If I felt hatred for them, I couldn't help that it bubbled forth in the tactics I used. I made no apology for my cruelty when it came to two-legged varmints who would harm those I held dear.

I quickly searched the chamber, anxious to leave the dark stench of Howling Cave.

On my way out of the cave, I thought about Phane Thierry. He would never attend the University, nor fulfill his dream to become an Imperial Battlemage. These black robes had snuffed out his young life. "Rest in peace, guild mate," I whispered. "You are avenged."