Buffy the Bowgirl, Book 1, Thread 4, Do You Know the Way to Kvatch? Options

[Acadian]

Welcome to Thread 4, or the fourth 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.

Thread 2 began with a brief recap of thread one, then included episodes 27-56.

Thread 3 began with a brief recap of thread two, then included episodes 57-84.

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

Thread three began with Buffy's sixteen-part miniseries called 'The Leyawiin Expedition'. In Leyawiin, Buffy completed Daedric Shrine quests for Nocturnal and Sanguine. She befriended the orc, Mazoga and the two ladies became Knights Errant of the White Stallion. Buffy learned much of courtly ways and convinced Count Leyawiin to send a soldier named Sergeant Lucilius Marcus to Kvatch to help Savlian Matius. Buffy also convinced Captain Caelia Draconis, of the Leyawiin guard, to send letters to her counterparts in each of the other cities requesting that they consider following Count Leyawiin's example of providing some assistance to Kvatch.

Dagail, of the mages guild, helped Acadian gain the power of speech to augment his telepathic ability.

As Buffy prepared to leave Leyawiin, she and Acadian pondered the wisdom of their course. Trying to learn how to defeat Mehrunes Dagon's Oblivion Gate at Kvatch by consulting other Daedra Lords had yielded no answers. They agreed to seek the advice of the only Daedra Lord who had helped Buffy at all - Azura.

After visiting and obtaining the advice of Azura, Buffy made her way to the Daedra Lord Peryite. There she discovered that her paladin was actually an ancient Nordic dragonrider who perished centuries ago along with his ice dragon, Phantom. Fellow dragon Peryite was intrigued enough to offer Buffy the opportunity to learn what she sought - how to survive Oblivion and fight Daedra. And fight she did, emerging from Peryite's plane as a Daedra Slayer.

Buffy than asked the Arcane University for assistance to Kvatch. After investigating a matter at Wellspring Grove for Raminus Polus, Buffy earned a promise that her request would be taken to the Council of Mages. Raminus told her it would likely be two weeks before the Council would convene and that he would send word to Buffy's guild chapter in Bravil when he had a decision for her.

*

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.

*

We now join Buffy as she arrives in Bravil and begins a massive storyline called 'The Tournament of Archers'. Although it will span less than two weeks of the bowgirl's young life, it will require this entire thread and approximately thirty five episodes for her to tell the tale.

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85 The Tournament of Archers, Part 1- Home to Bravil

It was fall harvest time, and the air was cool enough that Superian's unlabored breathing created clouds of mist in the moonlight. As the warm moisture drifted back and encountered my cooler body, her breath turned to droplets. After a night of riding, I was wet and chilled.

Finally, streaks of morning sunshine began to slip between the trees and blaze cheerful beams across our path. The elusive kisses of warmth on my left side were welcome. Birds were beginning to flit and dance now, among the branches that formed a canopy above the Green Road.

We had not stopped, except for the occasional bandit or animal attack since leaving Harm's Folly. Helping Corrick had been the right thing to do, but I was aching to get home. I still had almost two weeks before I might expect word from the Council of Mages regarding help for Kvatch. I looked forward to spending the delay in Bravil.

Gradually, the leafy canopy fell behind us, yielding to thinner forest and an occasional glimpse of the Upper Niben as it began to widen. The sun had climbed, and now fully bathed us in its delicious warmth. As familiar walls surrounding the City of Mara came into view, my heart joined the birds overhead in song. I leaned forward to pat Superian's neck. "We're finally home, girl."

"Hail Bu- I mean Dame Buffy!" The booming voice came from a mail-clad soldier, wearing the surcoat of a Bravil guard. As I got closer, I recognized the smiling Imperial standing post at the bridge to the city's gate.

"And hail to you, Gladius." I reined Superian to a stop next to the man and slid to the ground. "That's the first and last time I expect to hear that 'Dame' stuff from you," I playfully chided. "Wherever did you hear such a thing anyway?"

"A Legion rider by the name of Lucilius Marcus passed through here some time ago on his way from Leyawiin to Kvatch, and spoke of you. He said they dubbed you a knight errant down there. Is it true that you talked Lord Leyawiin himself into sending help to Kvatch?"

"True enough I guess, Gladius. I really don't care for titles though. I just want to be a simple girl from Bravil." Extending both arms to emphasize my simple hunting attire I pleaded, "Seriously, do I look like a knight? Just Buffy. Please?"

"Fair enough, Buffy." The professional soldier's weathered face creased into a warm smile. "Welcome home."

"Thank you. . . my friend." Although the words were a little hard to say, they were justified.

I led Superian to the Bay Roan Stables and started uncinching her saddle.

Gladius Maro had killed my beautiful friend City Swimmer. The Argonian had stolen from the chapel then resisted arrest with her dagger. The guard had given City Swimmer every opportunity to yield, but she persisted in her attack. She was no match for the veteran swordsman who was forced to cut her down.

I remembered drawing my bow against Gladius in anger, then realizing City Swimmer's death was her own fault. I knew Slayer could not ease my grief, and yielded to the guard. Gladius had gently placed his hand upon my shoulder as I wept, the lifeless City Swimmer in my arms. He had also provided a strong and steady arm than helped keep me from breaking down at the Argonian's simple funeral.

"Well, how's my girl?"

Startled, my thoughts of Gladius evaporated and I turned my head toward the cheerful words. The stable hand, in rough clothes, produced an apple and offered it to Superian. He then joined me in removing the mare's tack and grooming her.

"I'm sure she's missed you, Antoine." I gave the ruddy-faced Breton a handful of coins. "She quite adores you and the way you spoil her."

Antoine looked at the gold, then pocketed it. "You always pay more for Superian's care than you need to, Buffy. I like your mare, and would treat her my best without your extra money."

"I know that, Antoine." I shrugged. "Much of my gold does indeed go for Superian's care. My needs are simple though, so I don't miss it"

*

As I opened the door to the Mage's Guild, I noticed a small figure with his back toward me speaking to Ardaline. A bow and quiver rode outside the black traveling cloak he wore, and his hood was drawn back upon his shoulders. He ran a hand through unkempt brown hair, displaying the distinctive ears of a wood elf.

Ardaline saw me as I approached and I heard her say to the Bosmer, "Just a moment please." She then grinned, and quickly moved from behind her alchemy counter to give me a fierce hug. Breaking away and stepping back, the Altmer wagged an elegant finger. "You've been gone entirely too long. The only news of you we get is an occasional 'Buffy sighting' from the odd Legion soldier or Black Horse Courier rider.

"I know, I know," I said sheepishly. Changing the subject, I added, "Who's your friend?"

"I'm sorry," said Ardaline as she looked at the elf. "This is Aradroth. He recently moved here to Bravil. Aradroth, this is Buffy." Ardaline looked down at me and continued sternly, "She lives in Bravil too, but you wouldn't know it sometimes. Buffy's a fine illusionist and about the best archer around - well, except for Daenlin of course."

"G'day Buffy, how ya going?" As the elf extended a hand, his unusual words revealed an exotic accent I couldn't place. The polite smile did not match his slate gray eyes. They were cold, bored or devoid of passion - I couldn't determine which. They were also somehow familiar.

I offered my hand also, but he reached past it to grip my forearm in a warrior clasp. His stature was short - less than mine even - but his hand was strong. Instinctively I grasped his forearm in return.

"Well met, Aradroth." Face to face now, I could see that under his cloak he wore a black leather raiment. A sheath was strapped upside down to his chest, restraining a dagger. There was an elven short blade attached to his sword belt.

As Ardaline and Aradroth concluded their business, I placed several portions of fresh ectoplasm into a bowl on the alchemy counter. The Altmer's pretty blue eyes lit up. "Thank you, Buffy. I was running low. I see you've just cleared the chapel's undercroft again." She produced some coins. "Is this enough for your efforts?"

I dropped the gold into my coin purse without really looking and smiled. "Sure it is, Ardaline. I only need enough to board Superian, buy a few arrows and the odd bottle of Tamika's."

The blond Altmer giggled. "Remember the last time we shared some Tamika's? The pillow fight and fashion show? I thought Kud-Ei was going to kill us!"

"Oh yes!" I grinned. "If Delphine had kept her mouth shut, we might have gotten the feathers cleaned up before-"

"Ahem." Aradroth cleared his throat, looking understandably bored. "Shock poisons?" The question, as he looked at the ectoplasm with a raised eyebrow, seemed more of a statement.

Without really thinking, I responded, "Well, that's one use, although the resulting poison can be a bit heavier than other options. Lighter weight poisons with more lethal and immobilizing effects can be created if-" Suddenly I noticed Ardaline staring at me, her mouth agape. I couldn't help but see a flicker of interest in Aradroth's eyes however. "-um, I mean, at least that's what they told me in alchemy class. Ardaline and I mostly use it in our hair conditioner recipe." I didn't add that the Bosmer's unruly brown mane could certainly benefit from some conditioning.

The smile from Aradroth did not extend to those gray eyes. He tipped two fingers to an eyebrow. "Ladies." Wheeling, he then pulled the cloak's hood over his head and made for the door. The lithe, effortlessly quiet exit revealed that he was no stranger to the ways of stealth.

*

Daenlin's face burst into a grin as I entered the Archer's Paradox. "Buffy! Welcome home." He grabbed both my hands and held them out to my sides as he inspected me. "You look wonderful, but a little underfed." He craned his head to peek into my quiver and frowned. "Getting a mite low back there don't you think?" Without giving me a chance to speak, he glanced at the wood elf in the corner of his shop inspecting arrows. "Have you met Aradroth?"

Finally, I pulled my hands free and gave the balding Bosmer a kiss on the cheek to shut him up. "Yes." I smiled. "I'm low on arrows, it's wonderful to be home and I've met Aradroth." I then added, "Daenlin, I need twenty broadhead elven arrows and five of those enchanted armor-piercing ones."

"That mix sounds like a beauty. I'll have the same," said Aradroth.

Daenlin scratched his head. "Not exactly deer hunting fare, you two. Let me check my stock on the second floor."

I watched Daenlin as he climbed the stairs, then turned to study Aradroth's unreadable face. I spoke first, "Given your arrow selection, it seems we've more in common than an appetite for poisons, yes?"

"So it seems," Aradroth replied with no emotion in his voice. He then cocked his head slightly. "Ardaline's a dear sheila but I believe I could learn more about the darker side of alchemy from you. Dinner? Perhaps Silverhome on the Water tonight at seven?"

I blinked, surprised at his matter-of-fact forwardness. Surely his interest in me couldn't be. . . no, I decided. Not with those cold, almost mean eyes. I expected his motive was curiosity. I was full of questions myself as I looked at his bow and curved elven short sword. I had no doubt he knew how to use them. Then, there was that intriguing black armor raiment and cloak. "I'm very flattered, Aradroth, but must decline. I'll be cooking dinner for Daenlin tonight like I always do upon returning to Bravil. I'm sure we can get together soon at my guildhall though."

Aradroth gave me a polite smile that did not reach his eyes. "I'll hold you to it. I hope that -"

"Well, you're both in luck in seems," interrupted Daenlin as he came down the stairs, his arms full of arrows. "Now, I've inspected each one of these." He began doling them out. "Have you heard? The archery tournament is to be held in Bravil this year, and within the week. I presume both of you will enter?"

I responded with a giggle and a curtsy. "Daenlin's Apprentice shoots where and when her master tells her to." I then gave him a meaningful look and added, "Oh, don't forget about dinner at my house tonight."

"We're not talking about living targets here, so what's the point, mate?" quipped Aradroth dryly.

Daenlin looked at the younger Bosmer and frowned. "Tsk tsk." Turning to me he winked. "Buffy, I see we'll have to work on our friend here. Oh, and how could I forget about our dinner date tonight?"

* From Buffy's scrapbook:

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This post has been edited by Acadian: Oct 28 2011, 10:26 PM

[Acadian]

In our last episode, Buffy prepared and shared a quiet meal with Daenlin. Topics at dinner between the two elves included Savlian, butterflies, knights and mages.

SubRosa- Oh my. I hope Simiplicia and Daenlin never get together to compare notes on their respective twig-children! It was previous conversations between you and I that inspired Daenlin to ask if there was a conflict between being a knight and being in the guild of mages. A very reasonable question that caused us to think it through. Thank you.

Rider- I agree with you about the Knight Arcana! I'm so glad you enjoy the BF Daenlin. Ya know how there are just some NPCs that are special? I figure Varel Morvayn is one of those 'precious' characters in JF. Your presentation of him will always flavor my view of him - and in a wonderful way. Thank you.

mALX- Thank you so much for those kind words. Yup, there are plenty of people in Bravil that are like family to Buffy.

Zalphon- Our blond micro-knight enjoys a couple of benefits from being a Dame. One is improved access to nobles. She never would have been able to arrange for an able sergeant/second in command for Savlian without her title. Secondly is her precious friend Sir Mazoga. Thanks!

Rick- Thank you for your kind words as you bravely continue catching up with us! After the tourney, I promise to slow our pace some. With so many stories posting so quickly, I think that will be a prudent improvement.

King Coin- Thank you! One of the wonderful things about Bravil is the midnight shopping! Just see Nordinor in the alley next to Nilawen's. That should help lighten Aravi's pack and fill her coin purse. Then she can peruse Daenlin's wares in the morning!

Destri- Magnificently dedicated job catching up on so many stories. Buffy has several godfathers and you, my friend, are certainly among them! Yes, Acadian talks! Both his and Superian's roles are expanded in 2.0 as you can see, and the telepathy limitation was a touch too limiting. We thought Dagail was the perfect way to help expand the voice in Buffy's head.

Grits- Now you see why we identified so strongly and were so impressed that Jerric was willing to close that gate even when he figured he might not survive. Buffy doesn't have the stones that Jerric has of course, but you sure nailed her motivation about that gate! Thank you for highlighting that.

Thomas Kaira- Yum! You're making me hungry talking about roast pork! Thank you for the kind words. We really do enjoy it when Buffy sits down for a one on one conversation with a friend. At least she managed to keep her nightshade and wisp stalks out of the roast.

Ceidwad- Yes! A Knight Arcana ranging across Tamriel in the service of her guild would certainly be a fine aspiration for Buffy. Perhaps that will give ghastley an idea for a mod! I agree that the Arch Mage job does seem like a let down to those who achieve it. Thanks!

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87 The Tournament of Archers, Part 3- Having a Spot of Trouble?

I heard the whisper of a spell being cast, and opened my eyes to find myself engulfed in a haze of emerald magic. Panicking, I tried to jump from my bed but neither arms nor legs would respond. A looming face framed by a black hood filled my vision. The cold, gray and emotionless eyes of Lucien Lachance looked down at me.

Waking with a cry, I realized it was a dream and that I wasn't paralyzed. In fact, my hands were shaking as I rose from my bed. Chilled to the bone, I donned a doeskin fur robe and stirred the embers in my fireplace to life with a fresh log. Sitting close to the fire, I tried to absorb its heat as I briskly rubbed my shoulders.

"Why did I just dream about the Dark Brotherhood?" I said as much for my own benefit as for Acadian's. "My killing is not for hire. That dream was likely just a load of imp chips caused by allowing Daenlin to pour me a third goblet of Tamika's last night."

No, that wasn't quite true.

I was pretty sure what had prompted the dream. Since meeting the dangerous-looking elf, Aradroth, I had been trying to place what it was about him that seemed familiar. Now I knew. His gray eyes held the same hard coldness as those of Lucien Lachance.

It was almost dawn, so I filled my kettle and started heating water for tea. "Acadian, did you feel my dream?"

"Of course I did," he replied. "You made the right choice back at the Inn of Ill Omen."

I nodded. "You're right. I almost killed Rufio. Indeed, had I known the poor girl who was his victim, I likely would have been swept into the Dark Brotherhood. I'm guessing Aradroth chose differently than I." I picked up my looking glass and peered into it, wondering if my eyes would have grown cold like those of Lucien and Aradroth had my choice been different. I then reached for a brush and began pulling it through my hair. "I know Lucien talked about a loving family of dark brothers and sisters, but I have to believe that kind of life must be lonely." Filling my tea cup, I added, "The way Aradroth presents himself, I bet he doesn't have very many friends. I turned down his dinner invitation because he frightens me, but I must try to overcome that and make him feel welcome in Bravil."

"Caution might be in order here," warned the paladin.

"I know," I heaved a sigh and tugged on a set of buckskin greaves, "but remember when I first saw Mazoga? Sometimes you just have to reach out, even if you're scared."

While I pulled on my boots, I could feel Acadian pondering my words. Finally, he replied, "And sometimes you are wiser than I."

"Stop it, you'll make me cry." I stood, dropped my robe and slipped on a brown blouse. After finishing the warm tea, I grabbed my bow and quiver, then stepped outside.

The sun was up now and I was surprised by the bustling level of activity that was not present the day prior. Strangers were everywhere. I was intercepted on my way to the Mages Guild, right after crossing the foot bridge connecting the two halves of the city.

"Gentle lady! Just a few septims and one of these banners can be yours." The wandering vendor held up a small green flag depicting a crossed bow and quiver. "See how the staff of the banner is an arrow?" The vendor flashed a broken-toothed grin. "Wave this for your favorite bowman at the tournament. I only have a few left."

"Oh, no thank you." I returned his smile then continued toward my guild, cheerfully trailing words behind me, "I wouldn't want to take one of your last banners."

The guildhall was a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle. It seemed not many mages were interested in traveling to Bravil to see archers shoot.

I found Kud-Ei and Ardaline seated at the dining table sharing tea and a plate of freshly sliced fruit that had been lightly sprinkled with ground cinnamon.

"Welcome home, Buffy." Kud-Ei's orange eyes sparkled over her tea cup.

I wrapped one arm around the Argonian's neck and playfully nudged Ardaline's shoulder with the other hand before grabbing a strawberry. "My, the town is certainly busy getting ready for the tourney."

"Yes," said Kud-Ei. "I hear the inns are almost full. Probably every bed in Bravil will be taken before long. I would not be surprised if the inns of Faregyl, Ill Omen and even Pell's Gate fill up with visitors. Hmph, shooting sticks at bunches of straw." She looked at the bow on my back and added, "No offense to you of course, dear." I had learned to read the smiles of Argonians by watching their eyes. Kud-Ei's smile clouded now as she said, "You look distracted, child. What is it?"

Removing Slayer and my quiver, I plopped into the seat next to Kud-Ei, then accepted a cup of tea from Ardaline. "What do you ladies know of this elf, Aradroth?"

Kud-Ei's eyes opened wide. "Buffy, do not tell me you are smitten by him!"

My eyes flew open as wide as Kud-Ei's. "By Mara, no!"

Ardaline giggled. "But he's just your size, Buffy!"

"He's not at all attractive you know," I huffed, "and he certainly isn't very nice. In fact he's kind of frightening. Do you know anything about him? Is he skilled with magic?"

"He has caused no trouble since his arrival in Bravil." Kud-Ei set down her cup and shook her head. "He paid for instruction in a couple basic illusion spells but, well, let us just say he is a Bosmer who lacks the aptitude for magic you inherited from your Breton father."

Ardaline chimed in, "I gather from Nilawen, that Aradroth spends more time skulking around dangerous holes in the ground surrounding the Niben than practicing magic. Oh, and he's often drinking ale with Nordinor when I visit The Fair Deal."

"Thank you both," I said as I stood. "It's so good to be home! I'm going to spend the next couple hours soaking in the guild's tub and just pampering myself from head to toe."

Exiting the guild by late morning, I made my way among the vendors, visitors, hopeful contestants and even the odd noble. All of this, of course, passing under the scrutiny of pickpockets and the quiet practitioners of Bravil's black market undercurrent.

Stopping by the stables, I barely recognized the approach to my city. Brightly colored banners draped our 'Welcome to Bravil' sign. Bare-chested men were busily setting up target frames and building large seating structures as they sweated under a warm sun. On the ground laid rolled up tarps that would soon shade both the judges table and the seating area for nobles.

I looked forward to my archery master, Daenlin, winning the tourney again. My little town, which was part of the very forest and river itself, could then return to its peaceful and overlooked beauty.

While saddling Superian, I spoke with Antoine. "Do you expect a large influx of horses for the tournament?"

"Not as many as you might think, Buffy." The Breton stable hand ably assisted getting Superian ready to ride. "It takes money for horses, and most of them wealthy noble types don't care so much for archery. Nope, they like jousting and the heavy stuff. You know, armored swordfighters and even lancers." He smiled reassuringly. "Don't you worry none. I'll make sure your mare's care don't suffer."

Superian was high stepping and bouncing her head as I led her from the stables. She settled only slightly once I was in the saddle. There were a fair number of people coming into Bravil from the north and we kept to one side of the Green Road. The mare's snorting and prancing encouraged travelers to seek the other side of the road. As we continued, we met fewer people until we were almost alone.

"I know you're full of energy, girl. As soon as we pass this one traveler ahead, I'll slip on my detect life rings and you can run."

The lone Khajiit cheerfully returned my smile as he approached. Suddenly, and with the cat-like quickness his race is known for, he crossed the road, grabbed Superian's reins and pressed the tip of a dagger just below my left breast. "Your gold or your life."

I could feel Superian's fear and uncertainty as it mirrored my own. If she sidestepped into the Khajiit to knock him down or tried to charge forward, the dagger would find its way between my ribs. Sensing my will, she stood motionless. If I could somehow get to the ground, I could cast a spell to immobilize this robber and bring Slayer to bear. "I do have some gold, and I will surrender it to you for safe passage. Please, I implore you not to hurt my mare or I."

The Khajiit grinned, revealing a mouthful of sharp teeth that matched the yellow color of his threatening eyes. "A wise choice."

"My coin purse is buried deeply in my pack." I looked down at the dagger still pressed against me. "Will you permit me to dismount that I may retrieve it?"

The Khajiit appeared to ponder my request for a moment. "This one will allow it, but only if you make no sudden moves and stay on this side of the hors-"

Suddenly, his head was snapped back and sideways as if something had grabbed the back of his mane. A dagger, wielded by a black-gloved hand, flashed from behind the Khajiit and buried the full length of its blade under the highwayman's chin. The yellow feline eyes remained open, staring at the sky and frozen in death.

As the cat sank to the ground, standing behind him was a small elf dressed in black.

Gray eyes looked up at me. "G'day, Buffy. Having a spot of trouble?"

Superian was ready to bolt, but I did not ask it of her. Instead, I sat stunned in the saddle and stared at my rescuer.

Given the speed with which Aradroth had struck, and my own lack of quick response, the Bosmer would have had plenty of time to take Superian's reins and replace the highwayman's dagger with his own against my ribs. But he didn't; rather, he unhurriedly pulled free the blade that had delivered instant death by piercing the Khajiit's brain and wiped it clean. He then slid his dagger into the inverted sheath strapped to the chest of his black raiment and deftly secured it with a thumb strap.

I could see feathered tails and the ear of a bow protruding above his shoulders which were draped in the same traveling cloak he wore when I met him the day prior. The beautiful hilt of an elven short sword rose from a scabbard riding at his right hip. He lifted a hand and swept back the black hood, revealing his brown tousled mop of unkempt hair and Bosmeri ears.

Slowly recovering from my shock over the whole episode, I warily slid to the ground where at least I could cast spells. Superian lowered her long nose to the dead Khajiit, snorted and took a step away. Finally, I found my voice, "Do you make a habit of rescuing damsels in distress?"

"Surely I don't. Had you gotten your feet to the ground, I have no doubt it would have been your magic that claimed this feral cat's mind instead of my blade. I simply needed the practice and hope to earn your favor."

"Well, Superian and I thank you. I'm not wealthy, but you are welcome to the gold that I carry. I hope it will be sufficient for your brave efforts?"