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 enjoyed dinner with her old archery master, Daenlin. Once settled into her guild for the evening she learned that she would be escorting Guildmagister Kud-Ei to a short notice meeting at the Arcane University for Guildmagisters and key University staff. It seemed Arch Mage Traven had a major announcement. After the meeting, Buffy was informed by Palatinus Boderi Farano that the Elder Council had directed the Arch Mage to stand down the Mages Guild and Arcane University within six months. Boderi asked Buffy to speak to Guildmagister Dagail who had also attended the meeting.

*

Renee- After losing Savlian Matius in Book 1 Buffy went to Valenwood in Book 2. Book 3 found her back in Bravil and her grieving was not going well at all. She was neglecting herself and engaging in self-destructive behavior to the point it required the ‘intervention’ she and Daenlin just discussed in our last episode to force her from her house into the guild hall and under the supervision of her guild mates. Happily, that was just what she needed at the time.

When we first started writing Book 1, Buffy’s accounts were quite accurate reflections of her game. Gradually, however, we have moved well away from that and now use her game merely as inspiration. This will continue. Her Second Era Tamriel should feel familiar to those who play ESO but we’ll take loads of liberties when it comes to specifics and mechanics. As ever, I appreciate the opportunity to answer questions about Buffy’s long history and future plans.

Rider- I’m glad you agree that it feels as if we are watching the Empire beginning to crumble. This is intentional of course, to make it easier for Buffy to feel comfortable abandoning it for Kynareth’s quest to the past. We won’t be closing the loop on what ultimately happens to the guild/University but today’s episode will shed some resolution on Kvatch’s future. Thank you for your insights.

Lopov- Sorry for the cliff hangers. We are indeed trying to simultaneously create a rather grim present to help ‘push’ Buffy away from the early 4th Era while portraying a situation in the past compelling enough to ‘pull’ Buffy into the Second Era. Thanks for bearing with us.

SubRosa- Thank you. Buffy has such a long history in Oblivion and so many dear friends there that saying goodbye will be a challenge for her. Yes, the Elder Council’s unfounded paranoia does not bode well for the Empire. Dagail - yes, let’s see what she has to share with Buffy in today’s episode.

Grits- Thank you. Gut punch is a perfect description of the Council’s decision to disband Buffy’s guild. Yes, with the prospects of Kvatch, the Mages Guild and Buffy’s dragon mare in question, things will be a bit somber for a few episodes.

ghastley- Thanks for reading! I’m afraid there’s not much Buffy can do about the Mages Guild going forward. I’d wager she’ll be able to do something about that pesky Second Era ice mage though.

* * *

Episode 5

Dagail was Guildmagister of the Leyawiin chapter and a very old Bosmer. I believed her to be a seer of some sort, for she knew things that seemed unknowable. She was somehow aware that my spirit was combined with that of the old paladin, Acadian. She told me I would become a paladin well before Kynareth called me. Her gift had taken a toll on her mind, however, for she routinely drifted in and out of lucidity.

I found the set of visiting Guildmagister quarters she was using. Before I could raise my hand to the door, I heard her voice, “Come in, Buffy.”

Unsurprised, I opened the door and stepped inside. Dagail was dressed in a burgundy brocade gown and her gray hair was fashionably arranged in an upswept style. The experience of numerous centuries was written in the lines upon her face. “Guildmagister, it’s good to see you again.”

Chestnut eyes returned my gaze. “Congratulations, paladin. I have not seen you and Acadian since Kynareth called you, but I knew the Divines would choose wisely.”

“Thank you. I am learning much about my new patron. Did you have a pleasant trip?” My question was motivated more by concern about her travel arrangements than idle conversation.

“Yes. My deputy Guildmagister and I shared a carriage.”

“Boderi said you wanted to see me?”

Her gentle but gnarled hands grasped mine as the old Bosmer looked into my eyes. “After Kynareth sends you to where and when you must go, seek me in the Leyawiin guild. I will be much younger then, but I will know you and how to help you.”

“I-I have not even been offered a choice about her quest yet. How do -“

“Shh, I must rest now.” With that, her eyes began to glaze. I knew further conversation would not be productive. Instead, I helped her into bed and quietly left.

As I closed Dagail’s door behind me, Kud-Ei approached. “Oh, Buffy, Boderi said I might find you here. I’m sure she told you the grim news. I must head back to Bravil immediately to notify our chapter and begin making arrangements.”

“I can retrieve your horse from Equestria and we can leave within the hour if you wish.” I found it odd that Kud-Ei was wearing a halter top, loincloth and her feet were bare.

She shook her head. “I will travel alone by swimming the river – faster, safer and an advantage of being an Argonian. You were right, I do not really require an escort. I will ask your help though.”

“What can I do, Guildmagister?” I asked.

“Follow me.” She led me into the nearby visiting quarters she was using. “Can you escort that nice mare the Bravil stable loaned me home from the University’s stable?”

“Of course. What else do you need?”

She pointed to the bed, upon which were arrayed her possessions including a mage robe, pair of sturdy shoes, several books and what appeared to be a journal. “Do you think you could get my belongings home for me? It would speed my travel greatly.”

“Of course. I’ll be back to Bravil only a day or so behind you.”

“Thank you, Buffy. I will go now.” With that, she turned and left.

I summoned my magic storage trunk. It had been a gift from Sanguine after I completed his questionable prank of magically disrobing the Countess of Leyawiin and her guests at a stuffy dinner party. As I opened it and placed Kud-Ei’s things inside, I smiled, recalling the look on Countess Caro’s face and her futile efforts to cover her naked bits. The chest allowed me to use the mage pouch of holding at my waist for quick access to only the things I might need in a hurry or more discreetly.

I closed the trunk, dispelled it and looked around. That was it. There was nothing more for me here. “Acadian, we’ll leave in the morning. I’ll say goodbye to Thernd, Equestria’s stable manager, when we pick up the mare that Kud-Ei used. We’ll tether her behind Superian for the trip back to Bravil.”

I was up the next morning before most of the University came to life. I coaxed the kitchen out of some fresh bread, soft cheese and a handful of strawberries before heading out through the main lobby. The young apprentice on duty at the reception desk was not known to me but I was greeted with, “Good morning to you, Dame Buffy.” She handed me one of several copies of the Black Horse Courrier on her desk. “The Courrier’s delivery rider just dropped these off.”

“Thank you,” I replied while glancing at the headlines. I skimmed over the lead story about my guild being dissolved, simply to verify there was nothing in it I didn’t already know. Another story caught my eye however:

Elder Council names new ruler of Kvatch!

A spokesman for the Elder Council announced late in the day that Canuvius Carvain would succeed the late Countess Odalys Goldwine and assume the mantle of leadership at Kvatch, effective immediately.

As reader’s will recall, Countess Odalys recently died after her long bout with a mysterious wasting sickness. Her illness is believed to have been contracted while a captive during the Daedric occupation of Kvatch. Daedric magic is suspected.

The name Carvain will be familiar to those who follow Cyrodiilic politics, for Canuvius is the son of Countess Narina Carvain, who has ruled Bruma for many years. Though this is young Canuvius’ first foray into a position of responsibility, he comes from a family of well-respected Imperial nobles who have lived in Cyrodiil for many generations.

~

I returned the Courrier to the stack it came from and looked at the apprentice busily writing in her official logbook. She was a Breton who could not have seen more than sixteen summers. What will become of you, I wonder? You, who are just beginning your journey into the arcane. Will it be truncated by the short-sighted paranoia of fools who sit on the Elder Council? What dreams do you have for the future that the guild could have helped you achieve? Finally I said, “I wish you well, Apprentice, wherever your journey takes you.”

She looked up from her task. “Thank you, Dame Buffy. . . may I ask you a question?”

“Of course,” I replied.

“My instructor said I will be unable to graduate since there is not time to complete my studies before the University has to . . . well, you know. And, you see, my family spent most of our gold for my tuition. . . .”

“Headmaster Raminus Polis is a wise and fair man. I’ve no doubt the University will return your tuition to you if they are unable to complete your studies.”

“Thank you. That will really help my family. I had hoped to learn enchanting and work as a guild mage. . . but I guess my mother knew best after all when she said I should learn to sew and become a seamstress like her.”

“Best wishes to you and your family, Apprentice.” I forced a smile to hide the bitterness I felt. Dreams, indeed.

The morning sun was still low as my feet carried me down the long and winding stone steps to Equestria in the Valley of Horses below the bridge connecting the University to the Imperial City. Acadian remarked, “At least this young Carvain is not the son of Count Bravil.”

I sighed. “I guess that’s something. I just hope he’s wise enough to listen to Sirs Mazoga and Agronak. And his court mage, Sigrid. Oh, and Lucilius Marcus, his guard force commander.”

Before long, we were on the road south again, the borrowed mare from Bravil tethered behind Superian while Kitsune loped along beside us.

“I feel like my world is going to Oblivion in an ox cart, Acadian. I don’t know how much more bad news I can take.”

“I share your trepidation, my elf, for it does indeed seem like a dark time for the Empire.”

“Speaking of time, Acadian, we have not talked about the momentous choice Kynareth may present me with. All I know for sure is that I’ll make no such decision without your counsel. Tell me your thoughts.”

“I go where you go, Buffy. And I will not second guess your path.”

“That’s reassuring of course, my old paladin, but you're evading my request.”

“I suppose I am, Buffy. The hesitancy is because my thoughts on the matter are selfish. Phantom is as precious to me as Superian is to you. . . but I know how important your wide circle of dear friends here in Cyrodiil is to you.”

“I am torn as well, Acadian. I do believe, however, that as much as I treasure my friends, family is even more important. You, I, Superian and Phantom may be the oddest family imaginable, but we are the only family we have. If Phantom's spirit is truly in danger and we must forsake the life we know here to save her, then so be it.”

“I. . . thank you, Buffy.”

Well, this was something new. There had been many times when fear or worry had wound me up to the point where I fluttered about, trying to fly up and hide in the tallest tree I could find. And, as many times, despite my sometimes lashing out at him, Acadian had calmly talked me back down to Nirn, easing my fears with just the right words. Never before, however, had I known him to be uncertain, torn over what to do. . . even a bit fearful perhaps. And it had been I who calmed him down for a change. For I could certainly feel that his trepidation had eased. It somehow made me feel better as well – something I desperately needed now.