Buffy the Bowgirl, Book 1, Thread 5, Do You Know the Way to Kvatch? Options

[Acadian]

Welcome to Thread 5 - the fifth and final season of Buffy's Book 1!

This book began with Buffy being imprisoned in the Imperial City, 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.

Thread 4 began with a brief recap of thread three, then included Episodes 85-122.

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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 four consisted entirely of a massive storyline called The Tournament of Archers. Buffy spent nine days in Bravil as she awaited word from the Council of Mages as to whether they would approve assistance for Kvatch. She used the time to catch up with old friends, make new ones, solve a mystery, right a wrong and compete in the annual tournament to decide the champion archer of Cyrodiil.

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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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We now join Buffy as she arrives at the Arcane University to learn if her guild is willing to provide some aid for the besieged city of Kvatch. Buffy has vowed to help Savlian Matius free his burning city or die in the attempt. She will deliver on her promise in this thread.

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123 Little Elves in the Big City

"Good afternoon. Can I help you?" The question came from a young-looking wood elf seated behind a desk in the administrative office of the University.

I found myself staring at the lavender hair spilling over green fabric that draped her shoulders. The striking locks framed a face dominated by large eyes that were deep violet in color. She had a small nose and her mouth (like my own) was too wide. "My name's Buffy and I'm hoping you have a bed available for couple nights?"

"I'm called Malin." The elf rose to her feet to reveal she was no taller than I and that her robe had been tailored to fit more like a dress than a bag. She offered a hand across the desk as we appraised each other and said, "It's not often I meet someone as short as I. Oh, I'm a student here working part time in the offices to help pay my way."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Malin." Smiling, I released her hand. "Yes, it's quite refreshing to speak with someone eye-to-eye for a change."

Her fingers sought a nearby drawer and deftly traveled over the files within. "Hmm, Baeralorn, Boderi Farano, Bothiel, Borrissean . . . here it is - Buffy." She placed what I presumed to be my folder on the desk and opened it. "I see you're a graduate holding the rank of Apprentice. I'm sorry, but I can only put Journeymen or higher into staff apartments. If you don't mind staying in the student boarding area though, we certainly have a bed for you to use." Turning to a cupboard behind her, she produced a blanket. "It's been getting cool at night so you'll probably want this."

Accepting the blanket, I said, "Thank you, any bed will be fine. I have business with Raminus Polus after the next Council of Mages meeting. Can you tell me when it's scheduled?"

"That meeting was this morning." Still on her feet, Malin leaned over an open journal on her desk and flipped through several pages. "The Headmaster has a very full schedule for the rest of today." Her quill hovered over a page as she studied it, "Can I put you down to see him tomorrow morning?"

"That would be most helpful," I said, repressing a sigh at the delay.

"Consider it done." The elf dipped her quill into a pewter inkpot. After making an entry in the journal, she turned her attention back to my file. "Buffy, I see your annual guild fee is due next month. You can pay that at any branch or course, but while you're here, would you like to take care of it now?"

"Oh, that's a good idea," I replied, reaching for my coin purse. As I fished out the required gold, I realized how optimistic I was being. Considering that I was determined to go to Kvatch soon, would I even be alive in a month - much less a year?

She accepted my gold and applied her quill briefly to my file. "All set until Evening Star after next."

"You've been most kind, Malin," I remarked. "Tell me, how do like the University?"

"I love it," she replied. "I'm so glad to be free from living in trees."

"Really? You don't care for the forests?" I asked.

"Ugh, no! They're full of . . . nature. I was born in a treetop village north of Arenthia. All the women of my tribe are as small as you or I. Well, as soon as I was old enough, my shaman suggested I travel to the capital city of Elden Root and join the guild of mages there. It's not a big city like here, but at least most of the buildings are firmly on the ground. As soon I completed my recommendations from the various Valenwood guild branches, I headed straight for Woodhearth and swam out to the first ship headed from Anvil to The Imperial City. No more trees for this little city elf."

"What type of mage do you hope to become?" I asked.

"I'm a singer and a dancer," she declared. No doubt in response to my curious look, she continued, "Birds taught me to sing when I was young and, of course, learning how not to fall from high branches makes one pretty nimble. I'm studying illusion and destruction so I can create fancy light shows for dance productions. I want to be a famous entertainer one day."

"How wonderful!" I replied. "I love to sing, and my guild mates in Bravil tell me I have a pleasing voice for it." Remembering Acadian's advice about Savlian, I added, "Oh, and I hope to learn to dance someday."

Malin grinned, raised one arm gracefully and performed an elegant twirl. "Well then, we shall have to sing and perhaps dance together sometime. Oh, before you go, let me check to see if you have any messages." She looked through several boxes on the shelves behind her. "Here's a letter for you."

As I accepted the folded and sealed parchment, I said, "Thank you, Malin. It was wonderful meeting you. I'd best go settle in now and let you get back to work. I've had a long journey and am looking forward to spending some time this afternoon soaking in the University bath house."

I then made my way to the apartment of Boderi Farano, that I might pay a courtesy call on the Dunmer. There was no answer at her door. Asking around, I learned that she had been in meetings with the Council much of the morning and in the Headmaster's office all afternoon.

After finding my temporary quarters, I tugged off my boots and plopped onto the bed. I then examined the letter Malin had given me. The wax bore an imprint of what looked like a pair of crossed swords beneath a crown. I broke the seal.

Buffy,

You are a hard elf to track down. It was finally the recent Courier article about the Tournament of Archers that confirmed you are still alive and a member of the Guild of Mages. I made my way to the Arcane University as quickly as I could, where they confirmed your membership. I managed to speak to the headmaster there, who assured me that you were soon expected.

My name is Baurus and I hope you remember me. I was one of the Blades assigned to the Emperor when he was assassinated. It is urgent that I speak with you regarding his last words.

You have my assurance that nothing you may tell me will result in your arrest or confinement by either the Legion or the Blades.

While here in The Imperial City, I shall be staying in the Elven Gardens District. You may find me each evening in the tavern at Luther Broad's Boarding House. In case you do not clearly recall my appearance or recognize me without armor, I am a Redguard and will have the katana of a Blade within reach.

I beseech you in the name of Talos to grant my request. Again, I promise you safe passage after we meet regardless of what you may tell me.

In continuing service to the Emperor,

Baurus

I remembered the Blade named Baurus well, and his letter made me quite nervous that he might think I had something to do with the death of Jauffre. Yet, he had saved my life after the Emperor's assassin turned on me so long ago. He had also removed any record of my imprisonment and trusted me to complete the Emperor's task. What I mostly recalled about Baurus though was that the brave Redguard had been kind to me when he could have easily tossed me right back into a prison cell.

After much debate, some of it directed at Acadian during a long bath that afternoon, I decided to trust Baurus' word that he would not arrest me. In fact, I hoped he would believe my story and that I might be able to tell him something that could be of help to him.

I fretted over my clothes until finally stepping into a skirt of burgundy velvet. Its hem was trimmed in purple, just a shade darker than the blouse I dropped over my head. After strapping on some black sandals, I slipped into a black silk vest and laced it up. I pulled a brush through my hair several times, then tied a portion of it back with a ribbon. Figuring some credibility wouldn't hurt, I slid on my Leyawiin Court ring.

Once outside the University, I paused on the bridge leading to the city while I admired the breathtaking view down into the Valley of the Horses. Several animals grazed on the lush bounty below. A pair of imps hovered halfway up the canyon walls, diligently scanning their domain for wolves, lions and errant young horses. I couldn't see Superian and imagined she might be down by the western shoreline. Or, on second thought, perhaps she was under the bridge itself near the barn and pestering Thernd for some warm oat mash with molasses.

By the time my little legs carried me across much of The Imperial City, the sun had settled below the tall stone walls. Despite the delightful name, I had spent little time in the Elven Gardens section of the city. After asking a Legion soldier for directions, I found Luther Broad's Boarding House near the center of the district.

The tavern that comprised the ground floor of the inn seemed tasteful enough but not fancy - and it didn't smell of stale mead. I noted there was no welcoming fireplace which I pretty much required if I was going to enjoy a tavern. Behind the bar was a large balding Imperial wearing an attractive blue-green shirt. I presumed him to be Luther Broad. Oddly enough, a warhammer was slung over his shoulder which I figured was not a good sign. Nevertheless, the place seemed quite sedate.

Screenshot

As my eyes fully adjusted to the dim light, I noticed a Redguard eating dinner in one corner. A katana in its scabbard leaned against the wall by his knee. Realizing that I had never seen Baurus without his armor or helmet, I was grateful for the hints he had given me to aid in recognition.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Oct 28 2011, 10:20 PM

[Acadian]

Episode 124 featured a meeting with Baurus. Buffy was relieved that she was not a suspect in Jauffre's murder, but surprised to learn that the Amulet of Kings had been stolen and she was the only living soul to know the identity of Uriel Septim's heir. She and Baurus discussed the chances of Martin being alive inside the besieged city of Kvatch. They parted with Buffy intent on proceeding to Kvatch and Baurus stating he would try to get assistance from his headquarters to investigate the possible claim to the throne.

KC- Even though Buffy doesn't know how to read men's intentions very well, at least she paid attention to what Luciana Galena tried to teach her. Yes, she will accept no more diversions; it will take her a couple more days at the University and a couple days on the road, but the blue mark on her map is squarely on Kvatch. Thank you!

Rider- Thanks for the nit so I could fix it. Thanks also for enjoying our twist! We have tried to work with the plot challenges of having that gate open for such a long time; hence, the death of Jauffre and Buffy being the only connection between the gate and the Emperor. I appreciate your endorsement of Buffy's choice not to accompany Baurus. On one hand, it might have helped generate more aid for Kvatch, but on the other hand, now that she feels qualified as a 'Daedra slayer', she is growing more and more impatient to get there.

SubRosa- Although Buffy considers her motivation regarding Kvatch to be quite selfish, she is not above exploiting or touting the 'nobility' of her cause to garner assistance (such as from the Blades). We'll see that again in this next episode. Thank you for summarizing so concisely why Buffy is going to Kvatch and that she grows increasingly impatient to get there.

Wolf- Regarding Buffy summoning ghosts to occupy Kurdan: At this stage in her story, Buffy was about level 14 and likely a Journeyman or Expert in conjuration. I suspect she could have summoned a more powerful spirit, but her priority was to produce a long lasting distraction, and she could summon a weaker ghost for a longer period. Conjuration will gradually become a much more important school for her. You are one of Buffy's 'godfathers' and we so appreciate your beautifully kind words and encouragement.

mALX- Thank you so much! A plot endorsement from the Mistress of Plotweaving is a treat indeed! I know I generally refuse to acknowledge that we even have a plot, but I see you have caught my humble attempts to tie several pieces together here.

Destri- Thank you for catching up! I know Alawen is a favorite NPC of yours and was delighted that you approved of how we portrayed her. I do believe she deserved to win the tournament. I'm so glad you enjoyed our review of the legend of 'Button and the Bear' as well as how we 'Buffy'ized' the Caught in the Hunt quest. I know that delaying the gate closing for so long is a credulity challenge - I so appreciate your kind endorsement of our efforts to at least partially address that. I must actually thank SubRosa for her kind insights in privately pointing out the challenges of delaying the MQ as I began crafting BF 2.0; as a result, I was able to incorporate some tweaks to render things somewhat more believable.

Grits- Given the supportive comments from KC, Rider, SubRosa and yourself, I'm so glad I worked in some reference to Buffy's bar lessons from Luciana - even though they were of course not necessary when it comes to the noble Blade, Baurus. I'm so glad you were able to view Baurus' letter and Buffy's meeting with the Blade through her prism. This last episode displayed Buffy's primary function in the Main Quest: she is the missing link between the Oblivion crisis and Martin. Like you, Buffy and I hope that her Kvatch arrival will see a rainbow palette of many surcoats.

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125 Arcane Assistance

"We are caught up in three conflicts."

I lowered the silver tea cup to my lap. "How so?" I was not encouraged by the grim expression seated across the desk from me.

"Although their motives are not clear, there seems to be a loosely organized campaign against us by the necromancers," continued Raminus Polus. "There have been more isolated attacks. We have special operatives gathering information on our enemy, their cells, movements and plans. I have just sent word to each guildmagister to brief their members as well as the local city guard about the potential threat. Teams of battlemages are actively hunting down necromancers in their lairs, while others are required to augment our normal contingent defending the University. That said however, I have just signed the orders for two battlemages to join your cause at Kvatch."

"Having seen several guild mates killed by the black robes, as well as having been attacked by them myself, I cannot dispute the threat they pose," I said. "I'm most grateful that the guild can spare some assistance for Kvatch. What are the other two conflicts you refer to, Archmagister?"

Raminus went on, "Another challenge is caused by the continuing absence of an Emperor. The Elder Council, via the Legion, is struggling to hold the Empire together. The Mages Guild generally tries to remain out of the political fray, but several of our chapters beyond the borders of Cyrodiil are concerned about being caught up in what may be a growing civil war. At a minimum, it renders communication and conducting cross-border guild business difficult."

"I've heard of the unrest in outlying provinces from Legion soldiers that I have encountered during my travels," I said. "And the third conflict you referred to? Does that involve the Oblivion Gate?"

"Exactly," he replied with a sober nod. "The decimation of our Kvatch chapter is a grim reminder of another threat posed by the Emperor's death. The Dragonfires no longer protect us from Oblivion. If our assessments are correct, it seems the Daedra Lord Mehrunes Dagon has chosen this opportunity to interfere directly with mortal affairs. We do not know why he chose to target Kvatch or, after all this time, why he has not pressed the attack. There are those who suggest that the permanent loss of Kvatch is an acceptable price to appease a Daedric Prince; neither I nor Arch Mage Traven endorse that view."

I kept my mouth shut as the Imperial rose to his feet. He filled a cup on his desk with steaming tea, then tilted the pot my way with a raised eyebrow. Since my own cup was almost full, I politely shook my head. He then reseated himself and continued, "These conflicts affect each other. The Legion is spread too thinly by provincial unrest to bolster Kvatch. The guild's priority must be the war on necromancy because we can expect no outside assistance to defend ourselves. Your Captain Matius has done remarkably well at containing the impact of that Oblivion Gate; ironically, it's that very success that hinders his chances of getting help from the Empire."

I felt anger rise within me as I recalled the ongoing cost of Savlian's 'success'. Taking a sip of tea, I used the time to suppress my feelings and carefully compose my words. It was both clear and understandable that Raminus' priorities were guild-centric. "I am grateful for the assistance you have provided, but is there not more that we can do to avenge the losses inflicted on our branch at Kvatch? Or to help free the city so the guild can be rebuilt?"

For the first time since our grim meeting began, the Headmaster of the Arcane University smiled. "We have taken several steps in that direction, Buffy. Indeed, some of them began as soon as you made your request."

"Thank you, Archmagister," I said. "I love the family I have found within the guild of mages, but I must tell you that I have taken a vow. I will help Savlian Matius free Kvatch, or die in the attempt. I'm sure you can understand how grateful I am for any help you can offer."

One eyebrow lifted as he seemed to assess the big words from a small elf. "I believe you, for I quite vividly recall the bloody heart of a Dremora that you dropped on my desk at our last meeting to demonstrate your point. You are not the only mage who feels strongly about Kvatch. After the city was attacked, we offered the sole guild survivor, Sigrid, duty at the University or with any branch of her choosing. She refused reassignment and insisted that her place was in Kvatch."

"I'm not surprised," I said. "Sigrid takes her responsibility to the guild very seriously and is an important part of the city's successful defense."

Raminus nodded. "Yes, her determination to maintain the chapter is what kept us from closing it. In fact, we have formalized her authority to match her responsibilities. You may congratulate Guildmagister Sigrid when you see her at Kvatch."

"When I see her?" I repeated with a smile. "I take it then that you endorse my desire to proceed to Kvatch?"

"Yes," replied the Imperial. "Rather than asking you to apply your skill to our necromancer scouting or hunting efforts, we are supporting your actions to help Kvatch. In fact, after written consultation with Kud-Ei, I have reassigned you from the Bravil branch to Sigrid's chapter. I am confident your research into Daedra Lords will serve you well there."

It made perfect sense of course, but my transfer to the Kvatch branch brought home the magnitude of my endeavor. Images of pillow fights with Ardaline and disastrous experiments with hair conditioner recipes were swept away - replaced now by visions of standing alongside Sigrid to slay Daedra as they emerged from that fiery portal to the Deadlands. I swallowed hard. "Th-thank you, Archmagister. I know Sigrid is dedicated to the defense of Kvatch and I will try to serve her well. At least there will now be two in her chapter."

"More than that," he continued. "Sigrid reports that despite the humble conditions of her facilities, a young Argonian with some skill in destruction magic has asked to join her chapter. She has accepted him as a new associate. Further, we have assigned a recent graduate of our weapon recharging program to the Kvatch guild. He left several days ago, laden with numerous enchanted weapons."

"Some of this occurred before the Council of Mages even met?" I asked, recalling that Boderi Farano had told me I could have no better advocate than Raminus Polus.

"Yes," he replied. "At our last meeting, you convinced me that you might be able to close that Oblivion Gate at Kvatch and, with some assistance, help free the city. I immediately ordered a full on-scene evaluation and recommendations from Sigrid. In fact, I delayed setting a date for the Council meeting until I received her assessment."

After a sip of tea, he continued, "I've also had several meetings with our Imperial Legion liaison to learn who we're dealing with and hammer out command relationships; it seems that young Matius has a fine reputation." Raminus opened a file on his desk and leafed through it. "Trained initially as a Legion Forester. Wounded defending a settlement in the West Weald from trolls. Made sergeant early. Sent to a line outfit fighting up north during the war between Elinhir and Falkwreath. Most of his unit was killed - including his lieutenant. Battlefield commission. Wounded again - badly enough this time to be pulled all the way back to the Legion hospital in The Imperial City. Recovered. Sent to Kvatch as assistant guard commander - likely as a well deserved break from combat. Promoted to captain right before the Daedra invasion." Raminus closed the file. "He's certainly got the credentials to be in charge of something like this. The Council of Mages was comfortable acting on Sigrid's recommendation to temporarily assign what battlemages we could spare directly to Captain Matius."

As I sequentially extended the thumb and fingers of one hand, I silently counted: Me, a recent graduate of the University's recharging program, a new associate and two battlemages. Savlian would be pleased with me. "Given the various fronts demanding the guild's resources, I am most grateful for your help and confidence."

Raminus leaned forward to place his elbows on the desk and studied me over steepled fingers. "Buffy, as you know, Legion service is a prerequisite for our battlemage program and those individuals are trained by Boderi Farano."

"She also trained me," I said proudly. I knew that Boderi had served in the Legion decades ago - before she joined the Mages Guild and more or less invented the battlemage program. I was quite unsure where Raminus was going with this. Given my big words about helping Savlian, did he expect me to join the Imperial Legion? Did they even have scouts? What if I didn't get assigned to Savlian? Buffy! Pay attention!

". . . matter clearly involves one of Boderi's specialties, so she was called upon to provide her opinions to the Council this morning. I believe it was her impassioned testimony regarding your skill and abilities that convinced the Council your cause is feasible. Further, when I met with her to discuss which battlemages to send to Kvatch, she volunteered for the assignment herself."

My eyes flew open wide. Realizing that my mouth had responded similarly, I quickly closed it.

Before I could give voice to a response, Raminus continued, "I denied her request of course. Given the various threats to the guild, she is badly needed here at the University. She not only trains battlemages, but also directs the efforts of our special operatives that . . . quietly perform a variety of tasks for the guild."

Still stunned to realize that my advisor, mentor and friend would risk her life for my cause, I managed to say, "Of course. I understand."

A slight smile joined an uncharacteristic expression on Raminus' face that I could only describe as sheepish. "After I endured some less than ladylike words for my denial of her request, Boderi selected the two battlemages for duty at Kvatch. She also wants to see you before you leave."

I tilted my head, "Will I be working for Boderi then?"

"No, she wants to assess your training and brief you on some details. You'll be working for Sigrid once you get to Kvatch. We all understand, however, that Captain Matius is in charge of the overall effort up there." With that, Raminus rose to his feet signaling the end of our meeting.

"Thank you again for everything, Archmagister," I said as I stood.

"Much of the credit is due to your own tenaciousness, Journeyman." A broad smile garnished the human's features as he reached across his desk.

Somewhat confused, I grasped his offered hand. "Journeyman?"

"Yes, congratulations on your promotion - effective immediately. You may consider it a well-earned reward for your service to the guild, including uncovering and avenging the attack at Wellspring Grove a couple weeks ago. Now, go report to Boderi."

This post has been edited by Acadian: Aug 15 2011, 03:22 AM