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’s training continued as Kynareth shared her spells of Holy Light, explained their use and gave the young paladin a chance to practice them in conjunction with her new staff, Carsomyr. As the day concluded, Kynareth was satisfied with Buffy’s progress and announced that the following morning, they would discuss and schedule arrangements for her actual travel to the Second Era.

*

Rider- I’m glad you enjoyed our attempt to explain how Buffy’s staff works. You are absolutely right that Buffy, like Lili, is going to want someone wearing and wielding steel in front of her. Akatosh has provided Kynareth the power/knowledge she needs to accomplish her task of moving Buffy to the Second Era, so we won’t actually be meeting him.

SubRosa- Buffy’s shield is not quite as big as the pic made it look since the pic had the shield so close to the camera. Here’s another shot taken from more of a ‘Does this make my butt look big?’ angle. Yes, I figure Buffy’s Holy Light is inspired by the sun, just as Silverlight’s magic is inspired by the moon. The healing spells can be helpful in a fight indeed although there are some powerful foes that crank out enough damage to overwhelm. And you’re right – she’s gonna need someone sturdier than herself to help.

Grits- Buffy and Kynareth will discuss the when and where of her upcoming time travel in today’s episode. Then another episode to say her goodbyes. Finally it’ll be off to the Second Era in the episode after that! Buffy will describe the time travel experience from her perspective of course.

Lopov- Though I did use specifics in describing Buffy’s new suite of spells, my intent was to impart a ‘feel’ for what they, in combination with her staff, can accomplish in general. There actually won’t be a great deal of combat in this book and when there is, my plan is to refresh what her spells do as she uses them. So please don’t worry about trying to retain the details of this past episode.

Renee- Fun observations on the speech patterns! I confess, a good deal of it is subconscious; that is it just flows out of Buffy that way since she is of a different world. In the episode before this one Buffy’s weapon (Carsomyr) knew that she would be a paladin of Holy Light and Carsomyr determined that a magic staff would suit her better than a bow at this point. So she’s a staff wielding mage instead of a bow wielding mage for now. Blazing spear is a spell that Buffy casts through her staff causing a magical spear of Holy Light to launch to the target area as described. Buffy is constantly evolving – a necessity, given that she is my one and only character and needs to adventure for many years across numerous games. Her ability to control foes with illusion magic will be gone in the Second Era, but her ability as a healer has blossomed. In the Second Era, she’ll rely on a sturdy companion up front to help control foes, and that will work because of her ability to heal them in combat. So she is currently evolving into a combat healer. She’ll use a staff and Holy Light spells through this book. In the longer future though, she’ll learn other spells and Carsomyr will shift between bow and staff to best support whichever suite of spells she is using.

* * *

Episode 10

The following morning, I met Kynarath at our usual spot just north of Bravil on the shore of the Niben. We sat side by side watching the sun climb the trees across the river.

“My Lady?”

“Dame Buffy?”

I giggled. “I’m just a little Bosmer. You can call me Buffy, you know.”

“Of course I can. I was teasing you for calling me ‘My Lady’.” Her smile was bright, her eyes sparkled and her tone was light.”

I tilted my head. “What should I call you then, if not My Lady? Sky Goddess?”

“By Dibella’s silky breeches, I should hope not!” She gently elbowed me. “How about Kynareth? Or perhaps. . . .”

“Or perhaps what, My La- I mean Kynareth?”

She hesitated before she spoke, “I’ve watched you all your life, Buffy. I know how much you treasure your friends. Not to be presumptive, but I can think of no higher title.”

“You, who intervened when I alone could not heal Sir Agronak and my own life was in danger? You, who believed in me enough to choose me as your paladin? You, who are spending so much time helping and training me that I might successfully save our dragon’s spirit and the life of my precious mare?” I was blinking back tears by the time I said, “You have earned that title and more. . . my friend.” Without thinking, I hugged her. She hugged me back.

When we drew apart, I noticed her eyes were moist – like mine. Finally she said, “We have much to discuss today and I believe you started to ask a question?”

I smiled as I looked at her differently. I would not quest for her because she was a Divine and I was her paladin; I would do so because she was my friend. “Yes, My- I mean Kynareth. You said every one of your paladins has used the weapon I now carry. . . . Could that mean you only have one paladin at a time?”

“That is exactly what it means, Buffy. Akatosh, Stendaar and Mara sponsor many paladins at the same time – usually more than a score. Despite being relatively new to the Divines, likewise with Talos. Arkay and Zenithar normally support half a dozen or more. Julianos and Dibella choose to maintain but a handful. And I. . . well, I have no more than one paladin at a time. Even during the Great Dragon War, the paladins who fought alongside Acadian were sponsored by other Divines. On occasion I have gone centuries with no paladin at all for, like you, I grieve hard. When I lost Acadian, I cried a blizzard of tears that blankets much of Skyrim to this day. During the time to which you will be traveling, I was in such a period so you will be the only paladin of Kynareth then just as you are currently.”

“Moving on,” she continued, “I know you were an avid reader at the University and that you have the ability to recall anything you have read. I presume you are familiar with the political situation of the Second Era? Such knowledge will be invaluable in allowing you to more discretely adapt to that time.”

“I think so.” I closed my eyes while my mind sped through the pages of relevant texts. After a few moments I looked up at Kynareth and was able to add, “There are three alliances all battling the Empire – as well as each other - for control of the Imperial City. Damage to the city and surrounding areas in Cyrodiil has been devastating and the war even ripples out, to a much lesser degree, into the respective provinces those factions control.”

“Go on,” she instructed.

“The Aldmeri Dominion alliance controls the area to the southwest,” I continued, “comprised of the homelands of the Altmer, Bosmer and Khajiit. The Ebonheart Pact is an alliance of Nords, Dunmer and Argonians and controls most provinces to the east. Finally, the Daggerfall Covenent operates from the northwest provinces of the Bretons, Redguards and Orcs. Some Tamriel-wide organizations, including churches and most guilds, have been able to operate with a good degree of neutrality.”

Kynareth nodded approvingly. “That will certainly suffice for all but the most intense political discussions. Are you familiar with how wayshrines were used in the Second Era?”

“Again, I believe so,” I began. “Today there but few wayshrines and they are used mostly as Divine worship sites. Up until early in the Third Era, however, there were many more and they were used like a form of portal or transitus network, though I’ve no idea what type of magic was involved. Touching one would attune the user to that particular wayshrine and enable them to instantly return to it from any other wayshrine. Who built them is not clear but many are of standing stone type construction.”

“Yes, Buffy, that will allow you to avoid asking questions that result in either an interrogation into your origins or an accusation of being daft. Let us move on,” she continued, “to a detail of the actual time travel. We know when, but where shall we send you? I know not the precise location of Drodda beyond the likelihood that she is collocated with the frozen corpse of Phantom somewhere in Skyrim. Skyrim in the Second Era is not kind to Bosmer, however, and I think you would be well served to arrive in friendlier territory. That should allow you time to get more comfortable with the spells I have given you and to establish some connections.”

I thought for a moment. “I’ll be trying to track down a rogue mage . . . so, perhaps the Mages Guild might be a good place to start. Oh, that reminds me,” I added, “Guildmagister Dagail, of Leyawiin somehow knows something of my quest, for she urged me to seek her out at the Leyawiin guildhall after you ‘send me to where and when I must go’.”

Kynareth smiled. “Ah yes. There are things about Dagail beyond even my ken, but her ability as a seer is without equal. I believe Leyawiin would be an excellent place to arrive. Well, probably on the outskirts I suppose. You will be naked after all.”

“When do I go?” I asked.

“The sooner you leave,” she replied, “the less you will need to rush things after you arrive, for you will want to proceed in a measured manner. Remember, it is likely half a year or more before Drodda is able to permanently damage Phantom’s spirit, and you will likely get but one chance to stop her. Do not rush things. In short answer to your question, Buffy, I think you should leave as soon as you are able to complete your goodbyes. Just remember that, on both ends for differing reasons, I would urge you to avoid discussion of time travel with anyone unless it is absolutely essential to the success of your quest.”

“Understood,” I said. “Boderi Farano will know what has happened when I disappear, and I think she’ll be pleased for me. I’ll send a letter to Sirs Mazoga and Agronak; I’d cry and perhaps even question my mission if I did that in person. That leaves my friends in Bravil and that will be tearful enough.” I paused for a moment. “How about the day after tomorrow?”

“That will be fine, Buffy. Let us meet here but at sunset. I want the cover of darkness to help mask your arrival. It will give you a bit of cover to get yourself sorted out. And find some clothes.”