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- The relationship between Kynareth and her paladin continued to grow and deepen. Together, they decided that, after a couple days for Buffy to say her goodbye’s, the elf’s initial destination in the Second Era would be the outskirts of Leyawiin.

*

Renee- Buffy and Acadian have shared many lives in numerous worlds and times. How the two of them manifest each time changes. Buffy knows this but Acadian is the keeper of their memories when it comes to details. She knows that their last life was in Tamriel during the Merethic Era and Acadian was a paladin of Kyne. Acadian and his ice dragon mount (Phantom) died during the Great Dragon War. That is what Kynareth was referring to in losing Acadian. Buffy’s role during that life is unknown to her. . . but she will learn it by the end of this book.

Rider- I like your comparison of the delicate dance between Lili and Sten with Buffy and Kynareth. In this past episode, Buffy learned a great deal about how much Kynareth cares for her paladins and Buffy in particular. The change in their relationship to friends brings things to a new level for Buffy, for Kynareth is right about how important friendship is to Buffy.

Lopov- Buffy will scrupulously avoid entanglement in what she will consider a counterproductive war. Relying on the neutrality of the Mages Guild will help her. I did want to give an overview of Second Era politics though and I think it was reasonable of Kynareth to make sure Buffy has an idea of the situation and how things work before she arrives. You are right – Buffy will say her goodbyes in today’s episode, then depart in the next.

SubRosa- As you know, Buffy doesn’t do things for gods, empires guilds or organizations. What motivates her to action is the needs of those she holds dear. No surprise then that, by bringing their relationship to one of close friends instead of Divine and worshipper, Kynareth has earned Buffy’s devotion. At the same time, it seems the little elf has quite wormed her way into Kynareth’s heart as well. Heh, I think you’re right in that Freyja would need the entire Eight/Nine to fully focus her nature.

Grits- Thank you for highlighting the significant development between Buffy and Kynareth as the two have grown into friends. Though she’s a Divine, Kynareth comes equipped with a full range of emotions. I believe the Divines chose well in matching Buffy with Kynareth.

* * *

Episode 11

I spent much of the following day writing – and rewriting – a letter to Mazoga. Finally, after many drafts, I folded and wax-sealed the tear-stained missive and placed it in the guild’s post, care of Guildmagister Sigrid at Kvatch. I’d be gone by the time my large pal got it. That was just as well.

Late afternoon found me at Nilawen’s general store. “I was just closing up, Buffy. Daenlin is picking me up for dinner soon.”

“Romance in the air, is it?” I teased.

I was stunned by the color that immediately blossomed above her neckline and the look she gave me to realize that I had stumbled into not being far off the mark. How had I not seen this coming?

“Well,” she said still blushing, “I lost my husband before you were born and have grieved long enough. Besides, you know better than I what a good elf Daenlin is.”

I grinned. “I’m ecstatic for you both!”

Daenlin came into the shoppe and looked from me to Nilawen.

“She knows, dear,” said Nilawen.

I bounced from one to the other, hugging them both. I fervently hoped that, by having each other, it would ease what I had to tell them.

“I’m afraid. . . I have something to tell you both.”

“That sounds serious,” said Nilawen as she hung out her closed sign to avoid being disturbed.

“There’s no easy way to put this,” I began. “Kynareth has called me to a quest. I leave tomorrow and I can say neither where I’m going nor when I may return.”

My words were met by stunned silence. Nilawen finally spoke first, “Buffy, tell me, I’m sure that Kynareth has good reason for asking this of you but is it what you want?”

I nodded. “It is. The quest involves rescuing a dear friend.”

“Then you go with our blessing and best wishes.” Nilawen sighed. “You know you’ve been like a daughter to me.”

“I’ve felt like a daughter to you as well. You’re the one who delivered me into Tamriel. You were always a set of welcoming arms after my mother died.”

Finally, Daenlin spoke, his eyes moist. “I knew this day would come, my apprentice. Knowing I had a hand in raising and training the accomplished young elf who stands before me now. . . well, that is the greatest accomplishment I could ever aspire to. I – we’ll – miss you terribly but we love you, little butterfly. Enough to set you free, for we know you must fly.”

“Thank you, Master. Your guidance in life, woodscraft, respecting the spirits of forest creatures, the bow and so much more will serve me well as long as I live. For if Nilawen has been like a mother to me, you have filled the role of the father I never got to know.”

After a long three-way hug, and with tears in my eyes, I let myself out of the shoppe.

*

We were seated for breakfast the next morning at the guildhall when Kud-Ei tapped a spoon against the side of her teacup several times. “Fellow mages, Buffy has something she would like to tell you.”

All eyes fell to me. “Dear friends,” I began, “as you know, I am Kynareth’s paladin. It’s not an easy life but it is one I chose. My Lady has called upon me to embark on a quest. I’m afraid I cannot share the details of where this will take me or even when I may return. I leave this evening, however. Please know that I treasure the friendship each of you has shown me over the years and shall miss you all, my guildsisters – and brother. I know that, with Kud-Ei’s guidance and your efforts, the Magic Emporium will soon flourish.”

After a few moments of silence, I heard, “Well, dear roommate, I feel like someone just peed in my porridge.”

Ever insightful, Ardaline’s joke was just what was needed. There were chuckles followed by a couple ‘Me too’s’. The conversation was awkward, but Kud-Ei helped steer it toward questions about Kynareth and being a paladin that I could readily answer.

After breakfast, the mages went to work. Their tasks involved executing Kud-Ei’s vision of turning the guildhall into a large private magic shoppe. I helped some but, by midday, went upstairs to go through my belongings. I placed my mage pouch of holding on Ardaline’s bed. Though the contents were inconsequential, I knew any mage would be grateful for the pouch itself. It was then I remembered the enchanted toe ring on my left foot that had been gifted to me by a dear friend. I stepped out of my silk slippers, removed the ring and sighed. It was adorned with a tiny butterfly, and its potent resist frost enchantment had eased my path in cold places many times. Though too small for Ardaline, perhaps she could wear it on a neck chain or have it resized. I slipped it into the mage pouch on her bed.

After summoning and opening my storage trunk I realized there was nothing of benefit to anyone else in there. I retrieved the black headband worn by Savlian Matius and pressed it to my cheek. Though the stains of his sweat and blood were still there, his scent had long faded. After a good cry, I reluctantly placed it back in the trunk. There were lots of clothes, but I knew of no mage small enough to be interested in clothing that was cut for a woman but sized for a child. As I rummaged through my footwear, I recalled the many times I had admonished Daenlin or Acadian that it’s not possible for a woman to have too many shoes. Again though, I was sure no one had any use for silk slippers or buckskin boots that were sized for a child. I closed and unsummoned the trunk. “It’s only things, right, Acadian?”

“True enough,” he agreed. “I believe they wear clothes in the Second Era. You will just have to go shopping.”

That brought a faint smile to my lips. “Thanks for trying to cheer me up. As long as I have you and Superian, I’ll be fine.”