Buffy - Book 4, Drodda the Icewitch Options

[Acadian]

Welcome to Buffy’s fourth book! As ever, her tale of continuing adventure remains one that is character-driven with more focus on her journey than the destination. Buffy is a magically inclined Bosmer. She travels intertwined with the spirit of an old ethereal paladin named Acadian who sometimes offers advice. Sometimes she listens.

Near the end of Book 1, Buffy helped the man she loved, Savlian Matius, free his city of Kvatch. They were successful, but the terrible cost included Savlian's very life. It was a physically and emotionally broken elf who retreated in grief and despair to her ancestral homeland. Book 2 picked up shortly thereafter and chronicled Buffy's journey of recovery and self-discovery through Valenwood. Book 3 took place in Cyrodiil and saw the Oblivion Crisis finally yield to the dawn of a new Era – even as Buffy accepted the challenges of walking an ancient path of her own and becoming a paladin of Kynareth.

Books 1 through 3, in their entirety, as well as an Executive Summary concise enough to comfortably be read in one sitting, can be found on our sub forum. That said, enjoying Book 4 does not really require more information than is contained right here in these few introductory paragraphs. I have taken care to have Buffy review significant aspects of her past as they become relevant. I welcome questions relating to her past though, that I may try and amplify or clarify things should our ‘review as we go’ approach prove wanting. More specifically, I want new readers to feel comfortable just jumping right into Book 4 without feeling obligated to read Buffy’s previous books first.

Book 4 joins Buffy in Cyrodiil shortly after the Oblivion Crisis. Soon, however, she finds herself confronted by a threat so vexing that the only path to resolving it will require the direct intervention of Kynareth, and for Buffy to forsake the life she knows.

I estimate that at one episode per week, Book 4 will require just under a year to post. My fervent hope is that you find our humbly offered efforts worthy of your time.

* * *

~ Part One – Cyrodiil ~

Episode 1

Reluctantly, I allowed my healing bond with Countess Odalys Goldwine to dissipate. She opened her eyes, saw the tears in mine and managed a weak smile. “Tell me the truth.”

I took her hand. “The wasting sickness that began in your foot has a Daedric taint. It strongly resists healing and has spread throughout your body. Were I to remove it now, it would destroy every organ it has infested. I’m sorry, Countess. Even with the assistance of Kynareth, I cannot save you.”

“Don’t blame yourself, Buffy," the Countess of Kvatch replied. "I will be at peace knowing that if anyone could have healed me it would have been you. Ironic,” a coughing spasm interrupted her words for several moments, “that Ormellius’ mage encased me in that magical ice to protect me from the Daedra. It almost worked.”

“I know they did their best,” I said. “Given the severe time constraint of Daedra breaking down the door, I’m not surprised that Count Goldwine’s court mage inadvertently left a small part of your left foot unprotected. That is how the wasting taint entered your body.”

“And I thought it was just an annoying limp I’d have to deal with.” Coughing wracked her body again as an attentive handmaiden quickly wiped away the blood it produced.

“In the months you’ve had since Kvatch was retaken from the Daedra,” I said, “you’ve largely restored this city to its former glory while inspiring your people. I’m sure the late Count would be proud. I know I will always be grateful for the mutual consolation we shared after both losing our mates. Let me ease your pain.”

“No,” she stayed my hands, “that will cloud my thinking and I have a request I must make of you while I still can.”

“I will do whatever I’m able Milady.”

“After I die, rule of Kvatch will be a ripe target. My city deserves better than the unproven offspring of some ambitious noble like the skooma-sucking son of Count Bravil.”

“I agree. How can I help?” I asked while trying to restrain a rising sense of panic. Please don’t ask me to try and become the Countess of Kvatch. As much as I love the city that Savlian Matius and I fought for and he died for, it harbors memories that are too. . . painful to make it my home. Not that the Elder Council would ever consider me – a Bosmeri orphan who can barely rule herself.

“I would like the Champions of Cyrodiil to succeed me,” she said. “Since moving to Kvatch and taking leadership of the Order of the Wolf, Sirs Agronak and Mazoga have proven their love for this city.” Her words were growing weaker and coming slowly now. “I have spoken with them and they are willing to accept the appointment if offered. I want you to be my advocate before the Elder Council. There will be resistance because they are orcs and neither is of noble birth. Will you do this for me?”

“I will advocate for you Milady, for I can think of no finer potential count and countess for Kvatch than Sirs Agronak and Mazoga.” Through her pain of trying to breathe, I could see a sense of relief in her eyes. “You must rest now.” As she almost imperceptibly nodded, I laid hands on her again.

I eased her pain then, mercifully, she slept. With her mistress asleep, the Countess’ handmaiden shifted her focus to me, bringing cool water, hot tea and fresh bread with soft cheese. We kept vigil through the night.

By dawn Countess Odalys was gone. “Join your Count in Aetherious now,” I said softly while her hands were still warm. As I left the Countess’ bedchamber, I was met by Sirs Mazoga and Agronak.

Their hopeful looks turned to despair as soon as they saw my face. Mazoga engulfed my shoulder with a massive hand. “Sorry, Buff.”

I tried to smile. “She died peacefully. I understand you're both aware of her request regarding a successor?”

Both orcs nodded. It was Agronak who spoke. “Countess Odalys was a fine ruler. We’d be honored if chosen to take up her mantle and finish what she started.”

I nodded. “I’m leaving almost straightaway to relay her wishes to the Imperial Council.”

After tearful goodbyes, followed by a quick visit to Savlian’s grave, Superian and I were on the road and riding into the morning sun.

**

My hands fidgeted as I sat on the hard chair. I’m sure I would have been tapping my feet had they been able to reach the floor. I looked up at the guard posted by the door. “How long do you think before the Imperial Council finishes deliberating and gives me their decision?”

The guard quietly replied, “No way to tell, Dame Buffy. You made a persuasive case. There are many in the Legion who well-remember what you, Captain Matius and the Champions of Cyrodiil did to free Kvatch. For what it’s worth, I think those knights could provide the strength and inspiration to make that city flourish once again.”

“Thank you,” I said. “I hope the Council agrees.”

The door opened and I was ushered back into the Council’s chamber. Those holding the future of Kvatch in their hands sat on the far side of a wide table as I stood before them. I could not read their faces.

“Dame Buffy,” began High Chancellor Ocato, “the Council has reached a decision regarding the late Countess of Kvatch's wishes regarding her successor. Odalys could not have chosen a better advocate. You certainly made a strong case that her success in rebuilding Kvatch should lend great strength to her recommendation. Further, you spoke eloquently to the character of Sirs Mazoga and Agronak, gained through your long history of friendship and fighting by their sides. You also made a strong argument for the superiority of earning one’s noble title via deed instead of birth.”

I realized I was holding my breath and forced myself to breathe. Their words were encouraging. So far.

“That acknowledged,” he continued as my hopes sank, “the Council feels Kvatch would be best served with the Champions of Cyrodiil remaining at the helm of the city’s valiant order of knights. Further, with so many changes affecting the Empire, we feel the people need. . . stability, a feeling of normalcy regarding how the Empire has always done business. Therefore, during a subsequent deliberation, we shall choose the next ruler of Kvatch from one of the well-known and respected noble families of Cyrodiil. Please accept our appreciation for bringing the late Countess’ recommendation to us for consideration. This proceeding is concluded.”

My hands were behind my back but I didn’t need to see them to know how white the knuckles of my clenched fists were. Nor did I need to see the hot flush of anger that rose above the neckline of my buckskins to know the color that traveled up to my face and out to the tips of my ears. I looked at each Councilor. Round-eared Imperials with soft hands, every one of them. Not one had ever seen a day of combat. Easy, Buffy, Countess Odalys was an Imperial as well. That is not the problem. That these ignorant fools are leading the Empire is the problem. I need to restrain my tongue. Nothing good for Kvatch can come from a display of anger toward them. I swallowed hard and finally spoke, “Countess Odalys was a skilled leader and friend. I appreciate the opportunity to have conveyed her considered recommendation.” I turned and left the chamber hastily so they would not see the tears I fought to hold back.

[Acadian]

Previously- Buffy met with Kynareth and learned that an ice mage is siphoning the residual magic from Phantom’s long frozen corpse – some 750 years in the past. Kynareth agrees to consult with the Dragon God of Time about the possibility of sending Buffy back in time to intervene. In the meantime, Kynareth suggests Buffy consider whether she is willing to leave the life she knows behind.

*

Renee- Thank you! Yes, Kynareth will be a major character in Buffy’s future and we’ll spend plenty more time developing her. And it does look like there may be some time travel involved to get Buffy where she needs to be. Regarding Skyrim - very early on, it was a dragon who saved Buffy’s life from the Imperials who kidnapped and wanted to behead her so she had no qualms with dragons. She also quickly learned that Stormcloaks disliked elves. Then she learned to dislike Thalmor as well. So. . . about the only organizational alliances she had were with the College of Winterhold and the Companions.

Rider- Well, the acorns are out of the bag now and it does indeed look like ESO for Buffy. Our challenge was devising a reason compelling enough to cause her to leave the life she knows in Oblivion. The Elder Council will display yet another ‘crack’ in its ability to wisely rule the Empire, and Kynareth will elaborate more on how dire the threat to Buffy’s dragon mare is. Once those pieces are in place, Buffy’s final decision should seem natural, even predictable.

SubRosa- Thank you for your kind words regarding our depiction of Kynareth. She will develop into a major character as she earns Buffy’s trust and Buffy worms her way into the Divine’s heart.

macole- I’m so glad you are learning more of what makes Buffy tick. My challenge with such a long multibook saga is trying to review relevant pieces of her history and lore adequately as we progress. As I’ve mentioned, I welcome questions should my efforts in that regard prove insufficient.

Grits- Thank you! My hope is to present Kynareth as both the goddess that she is, but also possessing a warm approachability to her paladin. We spent much time devising some purpose that would coax Buffy to travel to the Second Era for, as you say, leaving her friends behind will not come easily. A nice thing about Kynareth is that, like Acadian, she is timeless and will be with Buffy regardless of Era.

Lopov- I appreciate the kind words about Kynareth’s arrival. She has been interesting (and enjoyable) to write, and will remain an enduring character in Buffy’s world.

* * *

Episode 4

Kynareth had certainly given me much to think about. I was distracted as I spent much of the day catching up on local news with Nilawen while helping in her general store. By early evening, Daenlin stopped by and coaxed me to dinner at Silverhome on the Water.

I was well into a grilled salmon steak when my old Bosmeri archery master remarked, “You seem distant, Buffy, what troubles you.”

I finished chewing, swallowed and took a small sip of wine as I carefully considered my words. I would not lie to or mislead Daenlin. But neither did I want to worry him. “I have a decision to make. . . and it’s a big one.”

“That sounds serious.” He wrinkled his brow. “Would it help to talk it out?”

“I don’t think so, Master.” Though he was no longer my archery master I continued to use the honorific. “Kynareth has called me to consider a quest for her. The mission is important but would take me far away for perhaps a very long time. Beyond that, it involves details I cannot discuss.”

Daenlin set his fork down. “I can see this is important to you. Whatever it is, I know you’ll make the right decision.”

I took his hand. “Thank you, Master.”

“How do you enjoy living at the guild?” asked Daenlin, helpfully changing the subject.

“It’s good for me, I think, to be surrounded by my guildmates. I. . . I’m thankful that you and Kud-Ei forced me to sell my house and move into the guild. You both were right; I was not doing well by myself after losing Savlian.”

“A thank you, is it?” asked Daenlin with a smile and wink. “I’ll take that over the ‘Daenlin, I hate you!’ and bruises on my back I received when I carried you over my shoulder out of your house to the guild hall.”

I chuckled, even as I felt a flush of embarrassment. “I hope I’ve learned some of the wisdom both you and Kud-Ei have tried to teach me over the years.” With a last small drink, I emptied my wine goblet, set it on the table and pushed it away.

Daenlin watched and said, “I expect you have much to think about. How about I walk you home to your guild?”

Later that evening, Ardaline and I were upstairs, sitting cross legged on our beds wearing flimsy sleeping tunics and catching up with each other. Kitsune was comfortably curled up on my pillow, her luxuriant tail draped over her head. Our occasional giggles were interrupted by Kud-Ei. “I am sorry to interrupt your girl talk but I received an unusual letter from the Arch Mage today.”

“Unusual?” I asked.

Kud-Ei nodded. “Arch Mage Traven has called for a meeting three days hence of Guildmagisters and senior staff of the University. It is unusual for its short notice. Such things are normally scheduled several months in advance. Whatever it is, must therefore be quite important. Ardaline, I want you to act as temporary Guildmagister in my absence.”

“M-me?” squeaked Ardaline. “Would not Buffy be a better choice? After all she’s a Knight Arcana in the Order of the Lamp.”

“Nonsense, young lady. I’ve seen how deftly you manage customers as our alchemist. Fair, courteous but not easily cheated or manipulated. This will be a fine opportunity to further develop your leadership and confidence. Besides, Buffy will be escorting me to the University.”

I tilted my head. “I'd be honored to do so, Guildmagister. . . but I’m curious. You’re a grandmaster illusionist and the road between here and the University is reasonably safe. . . .”

“Your perceptiveness does not fail you, Buffy. Whatever news the Arch Mage has to impart must be important for him to call us together on such short notice. As Ardaline reminds us, you are a Knight Arcana; I think we both can predict Palatinus Boderi Farano will want to see you after the meeting.”

I nodded. Kud-Ei was Guildmagister for good reason. “When do we leave and are you comfortable riding one of the stable’s horses?”

“I have preparations to make tomorrow. We’ll leave after breakfast the following day. And yes,” she admonished, “I do know how to ride a horse.”

Ardaline and I stayed up later than we should quietly speculating in the dark about what could cause the Arch Mage to call such a meeting. Once finally asleep though, my dreams were visited by visions of an evil ice mage trying to draw power from Acadian’s dragon.

*

My escort mission to the University was uneventful.

Boderi Farano was not only Palatinus of the guild’s Order of the Lamp and fellow paladin, but she had been my advisor, then mentor since I first came to the Arcane University to begin my studies. I had never kept secrets from her. Her discretion was without question and her advice always wise. It was Boderi, in fact, who maintained custody of my completed journals and memoirs. She knew about Acadian, Phantom, my godmother Azura. . . everything. No surprise then that the evening before the Arch Mage’s meeting, I had shared the details of the situation Acadian and I faced with Phantom and the choice that Kynareth was soon likely to present me. Though Boderi offered no advice better than what Kynareth had already told me, it felt good to share the situation with her.

This morning, however, I found myself making a pot of tea in Boderi’s parlour and waiting for her to return from the Arch Mage’s meeting. At length, I heard her door open. I poured cups for each of us and turned toward the door. “The tea is hot and I hope the Arch Mage had good-“ I froze as I saw Boderi. Her beautiful green skin had a gray ashen tinge and the look in her ruby eyes was one of despair.

“The news is not good, Buffy, and there is no easy way to say it,” the Dunmer began. “The Elder Council has decided to disband the guild. They’ve given Arch Mage Travin six months to complete the process.”

I managed to get the cups onto a table without spilling too much and my small butt into a chair without my knees buckling. “What could possess them to make such an absurd proclamation?!?”

Boderi’s unsteadiness was much more subtle than mine, but she slumped into a chair as well. “It would seem,” she said with a sarcastic bite to her voice, “that our successful support of the Empire during the Oblivion Crisis revealed that, when necessary, the guild can be a martial force to be reckoned with. Our reward for the brave actions of our battlemages and healers is to now be perceived as a potential threat. The Council is apparently concerned that should the guild disagree with whatever policies they might decree, that we could muster the power to unseat them.”

“Troll dung!” I exclaimed. “The guild has never attempted to interfere with the policies or politics of the Empire. Emperor Uriel understood this. So did Martin Septim. Their deaths, it seems, have dealt far-reaching and dangerous consequences to the Empire. That Elder Council is as useless as a sundial in a sandstorm.”

“Your words echo much of what we heard at the meeting, Buffy. Believe me, the Arch Mage feels as you do. Yet we are certainly not going to do what the Council fears and wage war against them. I’m afraid we have no choice but to stand down the guild and the University.”

“What’s to become of the responsible study of magic? A descent into hedge wizardry?”

“That is a possibility I suppose,” she said, “but frankly, none of us know. The overwhelming administration of this task will be shepherded by Raminus Polus.”

“Small and bitter consolation," I replied, "that Raminus is peerless at managing the myriad details that standing down the guild will require.”

“Buffy,” Boderi tried to smile, “my beautiful butterfly-dragon. Last night you asked my advice regarding the choice Kynareth may present to you and I had none for you at the time.” She sighed. “Today I would urge you to seriously consider what she may offer. I fear there are dark days ahead for the Empire.”

I nodded solemnly.

“Oh,” added Boderi, “Dagail was at the meeting and asked that you stop by the visiting Guildmagister quarters before you leave for Bravil and she for Leyawiin.”

“I’m not sure when Kud-Ei might want us to leave and, since I’ve no idea when Dagail might depart, I’d better do that straightaway.”

Boderi and I stood. I closed the two paces between us and we hugged. I couldn’t help but feel this might be the last embrace we ever share.