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.

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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]

Previously: After some sparks of misunderstanding with Falanu Hlaalu, the two elves discussed elven fertility and Buffy obtained the alchemical relief she sought. Already overemotional as she left Falanu’s shop, thoughts about the mechanics of dealing with her approaching period were the likely cause of a painful memory that surfaced. Finally, an encounter with Skingrad’s guard commander returned the elf’s swirling focus to her self-appointed quest.

Rider- Thank you. Yes, both Julian and Buffy experienced dashed hopes their first time. That is why you and I hope both women will return to the floor when the time and dance partner is right for them.

SubRosa- I’m glad that you and I have discussed elven fertility in the past, for I believe our ideas have reinforced each other to enhance both TF and BF. I appreciate your endorsement of how we portrayed Buffy’s time with Varon and his manipulation of the young elf with stars in her eyes. It was a relief to have her ruminations interrupted by Captain Dion!

mALX- Thank you (and Grits) for confirming that Falanu’s comment sharing Buffy’s preference for dead ones struck its intended humorous chord while soaring over Buffy’s head. I’m glad that Captain Dion’s appearance reminded you of the uncanny way he surprises us in the game.

ghastley- Thanks for noting that Buffy’s advice to Gladius seems to have born fruit!

The Lost King- It was both painful and vulnerable for Buffy to share her secret with us. Thank you so much for your kind words of support to her.

Grits- As odd as it sounds, I’m so glad that our efforts to have Buffy seem uncharacteristically b!tchy caused a smile. I expect SubRosa is as honored as I to hear that you find the elven biannual cycle worthy enough to incorporate into Jerric’s story via Lildereth. Thank you also for noting our reference to Gladius and Pelena, as well as your warm endorsement of how we ended the episode on a note of optimistic hope.

MyCat- I’m so humbled that Aramir named her bow ‘Earana’ and equally so that she might name its successor ‘Varon Vamori’. I surely did see that magnificent carrier deck shot you provided on Buffy’s potpourri thread featuring Buffy, Acadian and Phantom! Thank you so much!

KC- We couldn’t ignore Falanu’s infamous question of course and tried hard to factor in Buffy’s background and current emotional state in crafting that scene. Thank you for your kind words on the episode. They mean a great deal.

Destri- I so thank you for choosing to use the word complexity. I agree on the large number of moving pieces and currents in this past episode and you are just the master to draw them out. I particularly appreciate your recognition of the significance of Buffy being a half-breed; that, combined with her being an orphan and ‘buckskin-wearing mage with a bow’, helps explain her search to fit in and belong somewhere - even though she is routinely surrounded by those who care for her. I also enjoyed your thoughtful comments on my use of ‘protestations’ vs ‘proclamations’ which gave me much food for thought. I took your advice and did not change it, agreeing with you that it implies the current Buffy is thinking about her past after earning a slightly wiser perspective.

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131 Mmphlgl rgmphlf glgdrmph Kvth

Superian stopped at the threshold of a stone bridge along the Gold Road. The ravine below had likely been carved by spring water originating in the Kvatch mountains to our northwest, augmented by seasonal rainfall.

Although the sun had been welcome on my back as we left Skingrad in the cool of morning, it had overtaken us some time ago and was now quite warm. The mare perked her ears and turned her head, nostrils fluttering. Although my elven senses could not detect what she did, I understood her perfectly. "Let's find that water, girl."

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We turned to the south and, as Superian picked our way down the steep ravine, could soon hear the welcome sound of rushing water. Finally, we encountered the small stream. Its precious bounty was crystal clear as it danced and splashed over the rocks that failed to interrupt its flow south to the Strid River. I dismounted and joined Superian in drinking our fill. While I topped off a pair of waterskins, the mare enjoyed tender grass that grew abundantly on the banks of the stream.

The inviting water made my clothes fall off (of course) and I took the opportunity to scrub them. With that task complete, I figured I could use a bath as well.

Lifting one hand, I released a resist frost spell above my head and allowed it to settle over me before wading into the cold stream to wash myself. I removed the sea sponge to clean it as well, but it slipped from my fingers and the stream quickly carried it away. Oh well, I had more. My flow had started the night before and, if like the few other times I had experienced it since coming of age, would last only about three days. At least my emotions were much more under control now and the potions helped ease the cramping quite a bit.

I climbed out of the water and fished another sponge from my pack. After a couple tries, I managed to get it in place. Using one of the new spells Borissean had taught me, I summoned a linen towel to dry myself. Once done, I dropped it on the ground, knowing a puff of yellowish vapor would claim it shortly.

As I looked at my wet clothes piled on the bank, I remembered Thernd's lesson on drying horse manure. I leaned over and touched a glowing hand to the garments until they were frozen solid. I then stepped back and dispelled the magical ice. The delightful result was dry greaves, blouse and boots. Smiling, I quickly dressed.

"I feel so much better now," I said to my mare and paladin. Having come down the eastern slope of the ravine, I carefully led Superian up the equally steep western side. We soon found ourselves on a small plateau with a breathtaking view. I looked toward the Gold Coast and, under a late afternoon sun, could see alternating ridgelines and ravines running from north to south as the vegetation gradually turned from green to gold in the distance.

To the south and far below us, the sun glinted off the wide Strid River. Beyond, rose the emerald mountains and tall trees of Valenwood. I pulled my eyes from the distant forests and unrolled my map. Once I determined our exact location, I announced, "We'll camp here tonight."

After stripping Superian of her tack, I groomed the mare and carefully inspected each hoof after our climb down then up the steep and rocky ravine. I then worked saddle soap into our bridle, buckskins, saddle and boots.

Quite a large branch had fallen at one time and now rested on the ground nearby - a veritable forest of dry firewood. I summoned an axe and managed to chop and break up a nice pile. Grabbing Slayer and my quiver, I then set out to scout for hazards around the campsite and hunt for dinner.

By the time stars twinkled above, I was feasting on roasted rabbit in front of a cheerful fire.

After my meal, I drank one of Falanu’s cramping potions then stood to practice spells for a time. Remembering Boderi's advice, I lowered myself to one knee. After a couple failed attempts, I successfully summoned my elven dagger - and emitted an excited squeal that brought a curious look from my mare. "I've never been able to do that before! Aren't you proud of me?"

Superian nickered affectionately and flicked an ear, which I chose to interpret as approval.

Placing my other knee on the ground as well, I attempted to cast the spell again. I couldn't even get the magicka to my hand. Frowning, I moved my feet and knees around and tried - unsuccessfully - several more times. I remembered Fathis Aren effortlessly making sparks dance at his fingertips while seated. Surely I could learn how to cast spells while kneeling; Boderi believed I could. Focus, Buffy, and maybe try a spell you’re well-skilled at.

With both knees still on the ground and toes pointed into the dirt, I lifted my fist with all the determination I could muster. White magic began to flow through my right shoulder and along my arm. This time it continued until filling my hand. As my fingers opened, the soothing glow of healing magic cascaded over me, bringing a very big grin to my face. "Thank you, Boderi."

I was a happy elf as I spread my bedroll beneath the stars.

Digging into my pack I pulled out a small brush and doeskin pouch. An elf's teeth could last a thousand years, but my mother had impressed upon me as a child the importance of not taking them for granted. I hadn't paid much attention until the first time I saw Cosmus the Cheat give me a big grin. From that time on, I was always very conscientious at cleaning my teeth. I had used a small flayed stick from an orange tree, but later came to prefer the bone brushes sold by Nilawen that were equipped with one row of bristles. Daenlin was well aware of my diligence; one day he turned his fletching skill to teaching me how to make my own brush for teeth cleaning - like the one I had just pulled from my pack. The handle was bamboo. One end had been split three times and each slot carefully fitted with boar bristles. The end had then been notched and tightly laced with fine silk thread to hold the bristles in place before they had been carefully trimmed to the same length.

I reached for the doeskin pouch which contained teeth cleaning powder. Fortunately, I had ground up a new batch the evening prior at the guild. The higher quality alchemy equipment that I preferred was quite complex. After having broken several of the fragile devices on the road, I no longer carried them with me. Rather, I relied on using guild facilities. The teeth cleaning powder was a simple recipe that Ardaline had showed me. The most important ingredient was dried iris flowers, well known for their magical teeth cleaning properties. Then salt to aid with cleaning and provide some coarseness. A pinch of glow dust helped with whitening and sparkle. Finally, some dried mint leaves ensured a nice taste and fresh breath.

I rubbed a pinch of the powder over my teeth. After drizzling some water onto my brush, I popped the end of it into my mouth and went to work. While brushing, I chatted to my paladin and mare about our plans, "Mmphlgl rgmphlf glgdrmph Kvth."

"I'm quite sure you don't expect me to understand that," replied Acadian.