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 36, Buffy debriefed Raminus Polus on her encounter with the necromancers of Howling Cave. Having earned Meridia's favor in the process, it seems Buffy is now quite enamored by the idea of Daedric trinkets. In fact, she has set her sights on hunting for more Daedric Shrines. Although stopping short of calling her a material girl, it is clear that Acadian is not optimistic about what Buffy will find.

Foxy- The F word. I never should have let Buffy sit on my shoulder as we read one of treydog's episodes featuring Athynae!

Rider- Thank you! I fear Buffy will become disillusioned seeking trinkets from Daedra Lords. The young have to learn these things for themselves though I guess.

mALX- I'm so glad the line you quoted resonated. If Acadian wants the last word, that's . . . Fine! Lol. Thank you!

SubRosa- Thank you for the kind words. I hope you enjoy the undercurrents as Buffy's focus on Daedric Shrines evolves. You are most right to point out that Raminus is an Imperial - thanks, I fixed it.

treydog- Thank you for your observations on Buffy and Acadian. They are completely different life forms, or species as it were. Given the obligate symbiotic nature of their relationship and its inherent closeness, the occasional spark of disagreement is unavoidable. Fortunately, they listen to, respect and learn from each other. Given what Buffy has already picked up from Athynae, I must agree that getting the two ladies together could be dangerous for all around them.

Destri- I believe Raminus is a good student of the wood elf free spirit nature. By asking instead of demanding, he ensured both Buffy's help with the necromancers and, after a nudge from Acadian, that the black soul gem made its way to Tar-Meena. Like a certain sweetroll, that black soul gem will resurface in a few chapters.

On to the Gold Coast indeed. A detour? How very insightful of you! Her next chapter takes place at the shrine to Malacath. How and why she avoided a detour into Kvatch on the way out there will be addressed in the chapter after that. She will face that decision on her return trip.

Linara- I'm so glad you enjoyed the bowgirl asserting herself in a very 'Buffy' manner. Thank you! In offering the ring to Tar-Meena, it seems Buffy's giving nature (to those who are kind to her) overrode her attraction to shiny trinkets. The same girl that would slowly torture necromancers, would offer the ring off her finger to a friend. I confess as well, that part of my intent was to demonstrate that the way Buffy is built as a mystic archer, she really doesn't need that ring - or any other magic trinkets beyond those she already has. She doesn't yet realize that though - so off she embarks on a 'material girl' expedition. Wait till you see what she does with the next artifact she gets.

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37 Malacath

"Good job! No one owns ogres but ME! And I fixed that maggot! The ogres own Drad! Make Drad eat dirt!" The massive stone figure of Malacath paused to boom forth a mighty laugh that shook the nearby pines and forced my hands to my ears. "Now you get a present. Keep up the good work. And be nice to my little brothers!"

The handle of a warhammer materialized in my hands. Its massive weight immediately sought the ground, decisively taking me with it. I heard orcish laughter behind me.

"Ho! Look at that, Ghorub. Volendrung's bigger than she is."

"Yeah, look at the tiny tree elf. Got more than ya can handle there, twig?"

I blew a strand of hair from my face, glanced up at the towering shrine to Malacath and whispered, "Your little brothers are making it quite hard to be nice to them." Releasing the grounded warhammer, I rose to my feet and slowly turned to face the pair of orcs. Lifting my chin, I planted both hands on my hips. "I didn't exactly see your big green butts down at Drad's estate fighting his henchmen to free those poor enslaved ogres."

Oops.

Silence descended. The axe that was slung on one orc's hip found its way to his hand, while his comrade slid a heavy sword free of its scabbard.

Buffy, when are you going to learn when to keep your mouth shut? I glanced at Superian some thirty or so paces away. Perhaps I could cast a spell to disappear, and make it to the speedy mare's back for a getaway.

"Stop!" The powerful command came from a third orc. I had briefly met the brown-robed leader of these followers when I accepted Malacath's task. His name was Shobob gro-Rugdush, and his voice carried authority. "Mug, Ghorub, stay your weapons. She may be small, but this elf possesses something you do not - the favor of our Lord."

Dark eyes glared and upper lips curled, but the axe and blade were lowered, as Mug and Ghorub stepped back.

Shobob approached me calmly. His hands were the size of dinner plates, but they were open and empty. I gulped, but did not reach for my bow. He spoke. "Now that you've completed Malacath's task, you are welcome here - despite the protests of my youthful companions. I must confess, I did not expect to see you return, Bosmer."

"Thank you for your timely intervention," I said looking up at the orc towering above me. This is a 'little' brother of Malacath?

Shobob curled his lip slightly, but judging from his kind brown eyes I assessed the expression to be a smile. "You have earned Volendrung," he continued. "May I help you lift it into your pack?"

"I'm afraid that would merely render the pack too heavy to carry." I thought about my magic bag. Buffy, what are you going to do with a hammer you can't even lift? I stared at the massive weapon for a moment, then lifted my face to meet the orc's eyes and smiled. "Shobob, I'm touched by your chivalry and kindness. I would be deeply honored if you would carry my mighty warhammer as your own, and wield it on my behalf."

His dark eyes opened wide as he stared at me questioningly.

I nodded.

Shobob slowly removed the two handed axe from behind his shoulders. After lowering it to the ground, he effortlessly hoisted Volendrung across his broad back. When he met my gaze again, I believed his eyes were shining with moisture - although it may have just been the angle of the westering sun as it sought the Abecean Sea.

"Shobob, you are truly an orc worthy of this weapon." I shot a smug glance at his dumbstruck companions.

"I don't believe you told me your name, Bosmer."

"I am called Buffy."

"Well, Buffy, I will proudly wield Volendrung, and remember your kindness with every skull it crushes."

I forced a crooked smile.

"Sit with me." Shobob lead me to a bench under the shrine's shadow. "Every hopeful follower of Malacath strives to gain the favor of our Lord. I earned his blessing many years ago. My task was to help a young orc escape nearby Fort Crowhaven. She was a simple servant, and heavy with child at the time. Malacath did not take kindly to her being seduced by the Imperial noble that she worked for. Only some sort of foul magic could make a fine orcish woman lower herself to consort with a human."

He jerked a large thumb towards Mug and Ghorub. "These two lugs remain unblessed. They failed on more than one attempt to even locate where Drad kept the ogres. Tell me, Buffy, how did you do it?"

"Well," I began, "Lord Drad was pretty evasive, but the lady of the manor seemed quite anxious to sit and enjoy some girl talk over tea, strawberries and sweetrolls. Lady Drad told me of the hidden mine and even revealed where she and Lord Drad kept a key. Frankly, I don't think she liked the idea of enslaving ogres at all." I grinned slyly. "After dark, I slipped back into their estate and pinched the key."

Shobob glanced at the sulking Mug and Ghorub, and chuckled. "Well I guess that explains why those two didn't get very far. Perhaps Malacath realized this job called for a woman's touch." He then looked down at me appraisingly. "You're one third our size. Did you not encounter any of Drad's guards?"

"Not until I actually entered the mine," I replied. "Then, oh my yes! I know some illusion magic though, so I was able to convince them that they were the intruders, not me. See, one nice thing about being small is that I could cast my spell, then hide in a crevice between some rocks. I had to repeat that a couple times until only one wounded guard remained."

Shobob let both raised eyebrows ask his next question.

I glanced over my shoulder at Slayer in response.

The orc nodded his understanding, then a sparkle animated his eyes as he broke the brief silence. "Tell me about the ogres, Buffy."

"I used one of the guard's keys to open the holding cells and free them. Those were the first ogres I ever saw, Shobob, but I will never forget them. They're beautiful. Ogres are majestic, gray, gentle giants. I agree with Malacath - they should be free. Why, when I left, they were teaching the Drads how to farm."