Buffy the Bowgirl, Book 1, Thread 2, Do You Know the Way to Kvatch? Options

[Acadian]

Welcome to Thread 2, or the second season of Buffy's Book 1!

This book began with Buffy being briefly incarcerated in the Imperial Prison 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.

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Please allow me to offer a small summary of Thread 1 that I hope might prove useful as a review, or for those who are joining us in progress:

Buffy witnessed the death of Uriel Septim VII in the Imperial Prison. She eventually delivered the Amulet of Kings to Jauffre, who treated her rudely. Buffy's response to this, of course, was to drop the amulet on his desk and storm out.

At one point in her travels, Buffy encountered an Oblivion gate at Kvatch. Terrified, she quickly heeded the orders of Savlian Matius to leave the area. In their brief encounter however, Buffy seemed drawn to the brave Captain Matius - quite struck by his noble and selfless bravery. She was confident the Empire would resolve the situation that she considered well beyond her meager ability to influence.

Our orphan from Bravil then began to refine her confidence and skills toward adventure, even recently graduating from the Arcane University as a mystic archer.

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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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When we last left Buffy, she had just earned the Star of Azura. It seemed her immediate plans were to dispatch some minor chores in the Imperial City, then head home. We now join Buffy, in the City of Mara.

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27 Graduation Party

"Hmph, she doesn't look like much of a mage to me," snorted Fathis Aren. "More like a half-dressed wood nymph running around with a bow most of the time. Thankfully, somebody at least coaxed the little forest creature into a proper dress tonight."

The Bravil guild was assembled at the dining table enjoying a meal in celebration of my graduation from the Arcane University. It had been delayed for several weeks because our guild head, Kud-Ei, had been visiting relatives in the Black Marsh. I was seated across the table from Fathis Aren. His words silenced the room.

I set my fork down and said icily, "I wasn't aware that your approval of my appearance was required." Fathis had been abusive towards me for some time. I guessed it was because I had, on more than one occasion, deflected his amorous advances. It seemed he liked 'wood nymphs'. I might have thought that humorous but, at the moment, there was nothing suggesting humor in the dark elf's dangerous manner. There was also no doubt that his magic skills vastly exceeded my own. To make matters worse, my bow was at home. It had never occurred to me that I might need to defend myself within the sanctuary of my own guild. Despite the blue gown that Delphine had kindly 'coaxed me into', I felt quite naked.

The Dunmer sorcerer coldly returned my gaze, seemingly unimpressed. "I'll caution you, young Apprentice, to mind your tone when addressing the Staff Wizard to the Court of Bravil." His hand was glowing menacingly and just a hint of sparks danced from his fingers as they drummed the surface of the table.

I felt my anger simmering as I slowly stood up. I knew I couldn't cast a spell to defend myself if I was seated. I was unsure if the powerful wizard across the table was similarly constrained, or whether his sparks were just for show.

Fathis' eyes remained locked on mine as he leaned slightly forward. With one elbow on the table, he slowly raised that ominously glowing hand towards his ear. The slight sparking between his fingers intensified slightly.

Kud-Ei, from her seat at the head of the table, stood as I did. "You just hold it right there Fathis!" The glaring Argonian crossed her arms defiantly over her chest. "I'll do anything for my girls. You may be someone important over in that castle, but this is my guild house. What has gotten in to you? Did the Count yank your chain today? If you think you can come in here and try to intimidate one of my mages, you have another thing coming. You just stop this nonsense right now and mind your manners, or get out of my guild! Is that clear?"

By now, Delphine Jend was also on her feet, with deadly resolve in her eyes. I realized Kud-Ei could instantly paralyze the sorcerer or take control of his mind if she chose. Delphine on the other hand, could freeze Fathis solid, then shatter him like a block of ice. Fathis might have been a match for one, but he could not hope to survive the pair of formidable guild mates now standing on my behalf. Mystical energy and tension pulsed through the room, causing the hair to rise slightly from the back of my neck. The power of these giants of magic dwarfed the pathetic flare spell, or even dancing cobra that I could cast.

If there was any emotion in Fathis' red eyes, it didn't show. He continued looking directly at me while addressing the head of the Bravil guild. "Why Mother Kud-Ei, I meant no offense to your young charge." The glow slowly faded from his hand as he reached for the goblet in front of him. "In fact, let me propose a toast to your newly returned graduate." He raised his goblet.

Fathis caused us no further trouble that evening. I had always admired and looked up to Kud-Ei. I now loved her dearly, and was so very proud to be one of 'her girls'.

After dinner, Ita Rienus pulled me aside. "Don't worry too much about Fathis. He fancies himself quite the ladies' man, and I know he's been pestering you. You're an attractive young elf with a beautiful heart and spirit, Buffy. To Fathis however, I suspect you simply represent another potential notch for his bedpost. That his advances have turned to insults is, oddly enough, encouraging. It means he realizes he's lost this conquest. I'm sure he'll move on to another soon.

Still shaken by the encounter, I asked, "Did you see how cold his eyes were, Ita? Do you think he will try to hurt me?"

"Oh my, he did scare you, child." The older Imperial's eyebrows furrowed with concern. "I truly don't believe you're in danger. Even though he's not in our chapter, Fathis is still subject to the rules of the Mages Guild Charter just like the rest of us. He won't cross the Council of Mages by hurting a member of the guild. It would risk his cushy position at the castle."

"I'm sure you're right. As much as he angers and frightens me, I hope someday he finds that special woman who can capture his heart," I smiled sweetly and added, "so she can break it and leave behind a crushed shell."

Ita's eyes widened, then she returned my smile. "Well I guess it's true enough that Oblivion hath no fury like a woman scorned. . . but enough of this kind of talk." Changing the subject, she said, "You look as pretty as the Dangerous Delphine tonight."

"Thank you." I blushed. "I'm afraid I didn't give her much to work with, but you know our irrepressible Delphine; she couldn't resist the challenge." I held up my arms, clad in blue velvet, and playfully spun around once. "Here I am, in one of her dresses. She even provided some of her jewelry for the night, and taught me another way I can arrange my hair."

Ita stabbed a finger at the air over my shoulder. "Look, here comes the Diva of Destruction hersel-"

"Oh there's our graduate!" Delphine breezed into the conversation. The bubbly Breton smiled and fussed busily with the neckline of my dress as she continued, "Now, isn't this much nicer than wearing those. . ." she wrinkled her nose, "animal skins you and Daenlin seem to favor?"

I couldn't help but smile. "Thank you for the fashion assistance, Delphine - and for standing on my behalf at dinner."

She frowned and lowered her voice - both were unusual actions for Delphine. "Listen, if that green bag of wind who does parlor tricks for the count bothers you again, you just let me know. I'll turn him into a chicken!" Without pausing for breath, her face brightened and she was off to another subject. "Don't worry about those destruction grades you got at the University, Buffy. We'll have you blowing things up before you know it. Why, we'll start with crates and barrels," Delphine's hands started dancing descriptively, "then work our way up to small buildings, then -" her eyes darted across the room. "Oh is that Carandial I see? You ladies simply must excuse me." As quickly as she had whirled into the discussion, Delphine was off again.

Ita shook her head, but smiled fondly as Delphine flittered away. "I get tired just watching her." The Imperial's eyes suddenly sparkled as she plunged a hand into the folds of her burgundy skirt and produced Azura's Star. Placing it in my hand, she said, "Thanks for letting me study this for the past couple days. It is indeed everything we had hoped for, and I know it'll serve you well."

"I'm very fortunate to have earned Azura's favor, Ita. I think she liked me. Thank you for sharing the legend with me and putting up with my badgering questions."

Another guest that evening was Ungarion. The Altmer owned 'A Warlock's Luck', the magic shop in Bravil. He was not a member of the guild, but visited us routinely. As the evening was winding down, he approached, smiling. "Let me add my congratulations and welcome home to you!"

"Why thank you Ungarion. I'm pleased that you joined us tonight." I looked up into his eyes and could see that he had more to say. Tilting my head pleasantly, I invited him to continue.

Ungarion dropped his voice and lowered his head towards me. "Buffy, some of your recent. . . ah, how shall we say this. . . adventures have come to my attention. In fact, there is a matter I would very much like to discuss with you," a single eyebrow climbed his forehead as he added, "privately. Would you do me the honor of sharing a meal in my store tomorrow after hours?"

I was intrigued. The high elf was a respected merchant and had always been kind to me. After a moment I replied, "Ungarion, I'd be pleased to. See you tomorrow then."

After the party was over and I was home in bed, I thought about the events of the evening. Buffy, what were you thinking, standing to confront Fathis Aren? Were it not for the intervention of Kud-Ei and Delphine, you could easily be dead now.

When I was insulted, I did or said dangerously stupid things. I was sure Fathis had hoped I would cast a silly flare spell or some such at him. Yes, that would have given him a handy self-defense justification to turn my bones into ash - which I had no doubt he could do. I thought about Boderi's characterization of me. Someday, my dragon spirit would really get my butterfly butt into trouble.

The episode with Fathis reminded me of my confrontation with Earana in Chorrol, after giving the 'Fingers of the Mountain' book to Teekeeus. My angry words overrode prudence there also. Were it not for the watchful Chorrol city guard, that incident could have meant my death. Unlike Fathis however, Earana was not a member of the guild. She was not restricted by the rules - but neither was I.

I had been back to Chorrol on several occasions since my first encounter with the rogue mage. Each time she had become more threatening. I was convinced that her death or mine was inevitable. Further, I firmly believed whoever chose the conditions and struck first would survive, while the other would not.

As I drifted off to sleep, my thoughts turned to Ungarion. What sort of mysterious business did the merchant of magic trinketry have in mind? Oh well, I would find out the next evening.

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From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

This post has been edited by Acadian: Oct 28 2011, 10:24 PM

[D.Foxy]

Besides," I shrugged, "she might even be nice, like the Emperor was."



Famous last words!!!

[mALX]

I'm sure you know which is my fave part!!! And whenever Miss Buffy buys a new journal, I know a new thread will be starting soon !!!! WOOOOOOOOT !!!!

Awesome Write !!!! Buffy's interations with others is always my fave parts of your story !!!! And I will keep my eyes on the FanFic page for Buffy II !!!!

Have her help you put it up into a stick twist.

Er...is she talking about using ... a ... (cough, cough) ... THONG ???? ROFL !!!!!!

This post has been edited by mALX: Dec 11 2010, 07:18 PM

[SubRosa]

she's a Nord, and many of them rely on their breasts instead of fashion
This gave me a good laugh! Especially after meeting Sigrid so recently.

Delphine is the whirlwind of energy and fashion that we all have come to expect, with some very perceptive pointers on hair styles no less.

A lovely little interlude between Buffy and Nilawen. I see it is almost time for a new journal! The real gem here is Daenlin's remark to Nilawen though.

Finally a nice wrap-up at Casa de Buff, where we see Buffy's natural insecurity about not knowing how to act around nobles. Such an excellent response by her fairy godfather, in calling up the image of the Emperor. I am glad to see that Teresa is not the only wood elf who has found him to be a guiding star!

[Zalphon]

"I was hunting ghosts in the Undercrofts" That is definitely Buffy I loved that line.

[Grizzly20]

A lot of laughs came for me in this chapter! I particularly liked the Nord comment by Delphine. I can't wait to see how the dinner party turns out, or how finding Delphine's Khajiit friend turns out! Amazing work once again Acadian, you manage to immerse me in your writing so that it feels as if I'm really there, sometimes I even hear the characters talking in my head it's so well written. =)

[hazmick]

"she might even be nice, like the Emperor was."

First of all, Haa-Rei is shaking his head and would like me to tell you to tell Buffy NOT to go to castle Leyawiin. If Buffy does go through with it, Haa-rei hopes she will put the countess in her place.

Anyway, this chapter was brilliant! Delphine seems to have limitless energy (as all good destruction users should have) and she clearly knows what she's talking about.

More soon I hope!

This post has been edited by hazmick: Dec 12 2010, 12:34 AM

[Grits]

"I don't think Mara would appreciate one of us fire storming her chapel." Hilariously put and absolutely true. Buffy would be so thoughtful as to consider collateral damage.

"I sang softly to myself and Acadian as I carefully inspected everything from bowstrings to poisons to blue velvet shoes." Mayhem and footwear, tra-la-la. I love it.

Your Delphine is so vivid, she frightens me a little!

[MyCat]

"He simply told me that if you hold onto a butterfly, it cannot survive." Well put.

Every time she thinks of Sigrid she thinks of Savlian too. Her eyes must be turning green

Looking forward for the screen shots from the next couple of chapters.

[Destri Melarg]

My favorite Delphinism:

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Delphine admonished. “If you had little ears you wouldn’t be a wood elf.”

It isn’t so much the line as the attitude that accompanies it. Confident is definitely the right word to describe her. She should be preceded with a warning . . . like a hurricane! It is like she is saying:

‘Silly girl! Don’t you know that thought-space is limited? Why would you choose to entertain an idea that takes away from thoughts of fashion and making enemies explode?’

I continue to marvel at your ability to render Bravil as an effective base for Buffy. Affection and familiarity gives a sense of the history that she shares with these people. Even the account of her one trip to the Palace gives us an idea of the occasional rain that dampens Buffy’s idyllic home.

[Winter Wolf]

Delphine shook her head and clucked disapprovingly.

I always get a thrill from seeing such simple description that works so well. I can almost see the feathers on the wooden floor.

Great to add the part about Delphine and Maxical being friends from way back. If there was every one reason to hide under the bed covers, it is this!!
If Maxical ever arrives in the Bravil Mages Guild, I am packing up camp and heading for the Valus Mountains.

[Acadian]

Episode 56 found Buffy in Bravil, getting plenty of fashion tips from Delphine to help prepare for Countess Leyawiin's dinner party. Later that evening, Buffy discussed some of her concerns with Acadian, as she packed and made final preparations for what she expects may be a lengthy visit to Leyawiin.

Foxy- Buffy does tend to be an optimist. Thanks!

mALX- I thank you so very much for permitting and supporting the mention of a certain little red-headed feline here. I knew you would right away recognize the imminent opening of a new thread to continue our story! Thank you for your kind words regarding Buffy's interactions with others. She does indeed play well with those who are kind to her.

SubRosa- Thank you for highlighting what I agree were important parts of this episode: Nordic breasts, the whirling Diva of Destruction (and fashion), a new journal, Daenlin's insightful butterfly remark, Buffy's insecurity, and Acadian's vote of confidence in his bowgirl.

Zalphon- Thank you! To Delphine's chagrin, Buffy is indeed a hunter.

Grizzly- Oh my goodness, such beautiful words! For us to bring you some laughs, and for you to feel immersed in Buffy's story and be able to hear the characters talking makes our hearts sing! Thank you!

hazmick- Thank you. Buffy will indeed go to Castle Leyawiin, but Haa-Rei's warnings, along with her own trepidation will hopefully ensure she takes a cautious approach.

Grits- Yes, Delphine can be frightening; she keeps wanting to teach Buffy to blow things up! And her energy - she just never stops! She would be like Tigger the Tiger if she were not so potentially dangerous when angry!

I'm glad also that you enjoyed Buffy's singing; she actually has a rather nice voice (at least that's what her paladin tells her). Thank you!

MyCat- I'm glad Daenlin's butterfly remark caught your eye.

Buffy admires Sigrid greatly; however, it would not upset her if the darn Nord was perhaps just a bit less attractive. . . . Thank you!

Destri- Thank you for picking up on how easily and naturally Delphine dismisses Buffys ear concerns. Buffy figures that's easy for Delphine to say - you know, with those cute little round human ears. *Sigh*

Somehow, Buffy's good nature and discretion allow her to dance comfortably among the guards, shady characters and most citizens of Bravil. She has however, learned to avoid the castle and those who inhabit it.

Wolf- I'm so glad you enjoyed Delphine! She is fun to write because her mannerisms and actions so clearly display her thoughts. Yes, she is a little bit like a Maxical who knows how to aim!

All- My heart swells with gratitude toward Buffy's many friends who have supported our humble tale and offered encouragement. As the bowgirl departs for Leyawiin, look for her next episode as we begin thread number three. Thread three and Buffy's other threads may be found on Acadian's sub forum.

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This post has been edited by Acadian: Nov 26 2012, 10:01 PM

[mALX]

Congrats on the completion of thread two - AWESOME Buffy tales !!!! You ROCK !!!

This post has been edited by mALX: Dec 14 2010, 04:44 PM

[treydog]

Wonderful tactics throughout; it is always interesting to read the “why and how” of Buffy’s combat techniques.

I looked at the ethereal undead that had been reduced to a puddle on the cold stone floor, and whispered, "I know how that feels; better you than me."

That gentle, honest humor we have come to love.

"There's nothing worse than traveling without proper soap, shampoo and conditioner.

Now THAT is a "Buffy moment!"

The entire episode in the Bravil Guild just sings with its wonderfully-drawn characters who are familiar to us all, especially Kud-Ei and Delphine.

The Maxical cameo is a treat in itself- but there is also the added depth it gives to Delphine- who then turns back into her usual whirlwind with advice on hair, shoes, and jewelry.

And you manage again to make Bravil a real community with Nilawen.

And finally, Acadian’s gentle reminder to Buffy that she is “someone special.” We all know that already, of course, but it is good to recall that the Emperor thought so, too.

It is so good to have Buffy and her paladin here at Chorrol, and it is a joy to see the conclusion of one journal in the certain knowledge that there is another ready and waiting.

[Grizzly20]

Congratulations on the completion of thread two! Buffy's story is romantic, full of suspense and thrills, comedic, and a very nice portion of action; I love it! I can't wait for the third thread, keep up the great work Acadian.

[Acadian]

mALX- Thank you! I look forward to you and I continuing our journey together in the wonderful world of fanfic.

treydog- Your gentle encouragement and kind words mean the world to us.

Grizzly- Romance, suspense, thrills, comedy, action - such a wonderful compliment! Thank you so much for reading.



This post has been edited by Acadian: Jul 31 2011, 01:18 AM