Buffy - Book 3, We're Having a Crisis Here! Options

[haute ecole rider]

Hrrm, that went rather better than Julian's visit to the same Count! I do see Count Leyawiin in a somewhat better light than the Countess, and I still do have ideas how things shake down after the Crisis. I just see him as being overly cautious and waiting to see what happens before he decides which side of the fence to jump.

I find myself enjoying the introduction of the Commander of the Knights of the White Stallion. A proper Imperial, to boot! I'm wondering about his past experiences - Legion, mercenary, otherwise? I am content to wait and see where this author chooses to take us in this story, and whether or not we learn more about Commander Flavius Aquinius.

[SubRosa]

Sir Flavius looks like the real deal. Warrior and aristocrat in one slightly dented package. He instantly reminds me of Savlian Matius. Or Pappy Vitellus from Bravil (except with manners).

That was a lively war council! I enjoyed your portrayal of all the characters, who bring both their passions and professionalism to the table.




Nits?:
just [as] I remembered.
I think you missed the "as" where I inserted it above.

[Darkness Eternal]

It was wise of Buffy not get herself involved with the Dark Brotherhood and their sadist organization. I read that chapter! I applaud her for staying true to her beliefs, and her decision spared her what could've been a lifetime of regret and something one can never walk back from.

Ah, so what led Lady Caro to her execution was her own murderous plots which didn't work out so well. Can't say anyone will shed a tear over her death, all things considering. Again, it was good to see Buffy recalling past events earlier in her story, which was no doubt very significant and important for her.

Sir Flavius is an interesting character, an-all true Imperial by name, attitude and looks! I have to say the dialogue is superb, and it flows well. I've enjoyed the exchange between Flavius, Buffy and Marius. I'm very interested in seeing what comes next. Buffy has powerful allies on her side.

[Lopov]

Thanks for linking me to the Earana story, that was a good read, Buffy in that time period seems very different as she does now. I wonder if anyone except her and Acadian later found out that she was behind Earana's death? I'll probably read more stories from that book, when I have time.

As others have said, Sir Flavius is an interesting character. We'll definitely hear and see more of him, he'll play an important role in the future, I reckon.

He gazed at the empty throne to his left. “I know treachery when I see it!”

Brilliant!

[Acadian]

Previously- Buffy relayed Martin Septim’s request for aide for Bruma and its rationale to Count Caro. Advised by Leyawiin’s guard commander and the Knight Commander of the Order of the White Stallion, the Count agreed to send a score of White Stallion Knights to assist with the defense of Bruma. The Count then dismissed everyone from his throne room except Buffy so he could have words with her privately.

*

Rider- To me, the Count always seemed rather a milk drinker. Part of the reason I introduced Sir Flavious was to show that Count Caro actually could rein in such a strong-willed Knight Commander when required. I envision Sir Flavius being from a noble family and having trained as a knight from an early age. I wanted to show that the Order of the White Stallion was in good hands but confess I don’t have significant plans for Sir Flavius going forward. Buffy will share some of her thoughts on both Flavius and Count Caro as she rides north toward Bravil in a couple episodes.

SubRosa- I’m glad that Sir Flavius came across as the gritty real deal - like Savlian Matius, Sir Keldorn (Baldur’s Gate II), Julian of Anvil (Rider’s fiction) or Pappy Vitellus (from Teresa fiction of course). Another reason I introduced Flavius was to, as you say, liven up the ‘war council’ with some crosscurrents and ultimately a good outcome. A score of mounted knights certainly trumps a squad of city guards! Thanks for catching that nit; I do archive Buffy’s story and the more error-free it is the better.

DE- Buffy’s not reluctant to kill varmints who deserve it but I’m glad she only does so on her own terms and not for hire. Thanks for noting the dialogue among Buffy, Captain Draconis, Marius Caro and Sir Flavius. I’m pleased with how it came together for a realistic result.

Lopov- It has been at a glacial pace, but Buffy is gradually becoming of more 'good' alignment and more responsible in her judgments and choices - particularly when it comes to distinguishing between righteous justice and vengeful retribution. Later in Book 1, a detective came close to figuring out Buffy killed Erana, but not quite. Thanks for noting that line you quoted as the Count gestured to the empty throne next to him and admonished Flavius about treachery. I admit that part of why I introduced Flavius was built around wanting to use such a line.

* * *

Episode 18

Once we were alone, Count Marius Caro gestured toward the empty throne to his left. “Sit.”

“Yes, Milord.” After removing my bow and quiver, I hopped up into the throne. Sitting back fully back into the chair, my legs stuck straight out. As I moved forward enough to bend my knees, there was a large gap behind my back and both feet still hovered above the floor. The chair fit me no better than it would a human girl who had not yet seen a dozen summers.

“Buffy, it warms my heart to see you once again grace my court. I know not how you come to speak for Martin Septim, but he is fortunate to be so eloquently represented.”

“Thank you, Milord. A score of your knights will be a valuable contribution to the defense of Bruma.”

“Aye.” He then sighed. “This has been a difficult time.”

“Caelia told me of the decision Lady Alessia forced upon you. I’m so very sorry.”

He pointed at the throne in which I sat. “It was long ago, and from that very chair, a newly dubbed small elven knight risked my ire by gently urging that I lead Alessia out of her misguided fog. That same young knight also expressed confidence that I would do what was best for Leyawiin should it become necessary. I confess that the memory of your prophetic words eased the choice I had to make on behalf of my city.”

“You rendered the right judgment, as difficult as it must have been.”

He stared at me for a moment, as if weighing a decision. “You speak and look quite like you belong seated upon that throne, Buffy.”

I looked down at my dangling feet and suppressed a giggle. “I’m afraid I would need a footstool. . . and perhaps a thick back cushion.” When I met the Count’s gaze again, I realized with a start that he was serious. His eyes did not convey mirth, but rather a sincere and warm affection.

Before I could even begin to process what he might be implying, he continued, “Were Alessia alive, I would never admit the fact that I have been drawn to the beauty of your spirit since the moment you first brightened my court long ago. You saw the noble and kind heart of a champion within Mazoga when the rest of us could not see beyond her brutishly crude manner and tusks. You recognized the flaws in Alessia when love blinded me to the hazards they posed. When you assessed that Caelia’s soldiers were not properly trained to close that Oblivion Gate and my knights were fully occupied, you chose – at your own peril – to close it yourself and doubtless saved the lives of many soldiers. Buffy, I need a countess of proven courage and gentle wisdom who can help this city heal from the damage done by that chair’s former occupant. Perhaps. . . in time, you could grow to return my affection.”

There were so many reasons I could never accept his offer, but my mind raced to carefully frame the gentlest decline possible to this grieving widower. “Milord, I know you loved Alessia and hoped you could change her. I’m sure the knowledge that you ultimately made the right decision is scant comfort. You deserve a woman by your side who can give you and Leyawiin the full measure of her love. Alas, I have yet to deal with the grief of losing my own mate at Kvatch. I would not be worthy of the honor you offer when so much of my damaged heart still belongs to the ghost of another.” I watched his eyes carefully, hopeful that my words had struck the right balance between clarity and compassion.

After several long moments, he slowly replied, “I understand, Buffy, and apologize for placing you in the awkward position of declining a lonely Count’s poorly considered proposal.”

“There is no forgiveness required for the high compliment you have paid me, Milord, and I thank you for accepting this humble knight’s emotional deficiencies.”

“Given your recent service to my city, may I at least entice you to stay in Leyawiin by offering a promotion to Knight Sister in the Order of the White Stallion?”

I winced. “I’m afraid I must once again decline your generous offer, Milord. I currently seek a Divine sponsor among the Nine to become a paladin.”

His eyes widened with surprise. Then the trace of a smile appeared as he nodded. “I would take umbrage were it fealty to another noble that drew you from Leyawiin. Becoming a paladin, however, is an entirely different matter. Should the Divines be wise enough to call you, I know they will be well-served. You are a traveler, well-gifted with wanderlust, and I admit that your nature is probably best suited by being unfettered to the mundane concerns of men and mer. I wish you well with your quest, Buffy. You are always welcome in the Court of Leyawiin.”

“Thank you, Milord. For everything.”

[Lopov]

As soon as I read that the Count asked Buffy to sit alongside him, my first thought was whether her feet would reach the floor.

Well the Count isn't losing his time, that's for sure. On one hand it's to be expected...on the other hand I think he's rushing and that his "offer" wasn't proposed at the appropriate time.

I like your stories, where there's action and also where there's only dialogue, like this one. You manage to maintain the length of the dialogue long and captivating enough that by the time I come to the end, I still know, what was going on in the beginning.

[haute ecole rider]

Well, that certainly was an interesting twist on the character that is Count Caro of Leyawiin! That he turns out to be capable of seeing the true beauty in others regardless of appearance (and true evil, in certain cases) suggests to me to be an innate part of his character that was just called out, if you will, by his previous experience with our beloved Buffy. Certainly not one Julian saw!

And I had to chuckle at the memories this stirred:

“Given your recent service to my city, may I at least entice you to stay in Leyawiin by offering a promotion to Knight Sister in the Order of the White Stallion?”

[SubRosa]

Like Lopov, I immediately imagined that Buffy would not fit on the throne.

Ok, did not see that coming! One can certainly relate to the Count's feelings. Buffy is so very easy to love at the best of times. At a time like now, it smacks of the Rebound.

In any case, I think we all know what Buffy's answer will be.

Am I the only one who thinks "The White Stallion" sounds like a porn star?

[Lopov]

Am I the only one who thinks "The White Stallion" sounds like a porn star?

No.

[Renee]

17 -- Good lord. Count Caro really likes playing around with Flavius. SILENCE! one moment, "I prize thine servitude" the next. I like that you are spending a lot of time describing what a lot of gamers trudge through, or (In my case) barely bothered with, which is, the Assistance for Bruma quest (sic).

Wow, so Marius does not even know it was your elf who basically closed the gate? He only mentions his knights and others under his direct employ. Perhaps this is a measure of humility from the Buffster.

Uh on, private words with the Bosmer Bowgirl. Buffy's in trouble.

18-- Ha, she can't sit fully upon the human throne!

Oh.... oh no.... NO! Wow, he really made a pass at her, JUST AFTER what he just did to his wife. What in the??

Yeah, he can't trap her with some town position which is meaningless to her. She wants to be out there. Not trapped in Leyawiin.

[Grits]

Episode 16: Placing the uneaten pastry on Agata’s plate with a wink, I rose to my feet.

Buffy's humor, grace, and charm all rolled up in one gesture.

I loved Captain Draconis’s tale of discovering who was behind the attempt on her life. She had a quest!

Episode 17: In the lines of his olive skin were written more than half the years of a human lifespan.

This beautiful description brings to mind all the issues and heartbreak between humans and elves caused by their differing lifespans. I had to chuckle when Sir Flavius said “Forgive my appearance,” because I was at that moment thinking that he sounds hot. I loved the interactions between the Count and the Knight Commander.

Hmmm, private words with Dame Buffy. I wonder.

Episode 18: Oh my gosh, as soon as the Count asked Buffy to sit on the throne, my eyes were popping out like a frog’s! Then I had to giggle as Buffy wiggled around in the imposing chair.

Ah, when the Count mentioned Buffy’s advice to him way back when, his proposal made sense. He has been thinking about her generous heart and beauty throughout all of his troubles with Alessia and since. It was a shock to her, but she is in his mind’s eye every day. They both handled the No with remarkable grace.

Am I the only one who thinks "The White Stallion" sounds like a porn star?

Honestly, I giggle-snort every time!

[Acadian]

Previously- Count Caro quite surprised Buffy by making a case that she become his countess. The inwardly flustered elf managed to gently and rather smoothly decline the Count’s offer, blaming her own deficiencies which included her continued grieving for Savlian. She also explained her interest in becoming a paladin. Count Caro seemed to understand and reacted gracefully, even supportively. Buffy was able to depart on good terms.

*

Lopov- As you know, people grieve differently. Perhaps it is too soon for the Count to really know what he needs. That said, he does make an effective case that Buffy in that throne would be good for Leyawiin. The Count might have had better luck obtaining Buffy’s full time council by offering the Court Mage position to her but he realizes that, realistically, Buffy’s path does not include being tethered to Leyawiin.

Rider- I have tried to portray Marius Caro as rather naively blinded by love and wishful thinking rather than being of a pernicious nature. I’d like to think that seeing the depth and danger of Alessia’s treachery has somewhat opened his eyes.

SubRosa- I agree that the Count’s ‘proposal’ does indeed smack of rebound. That said, he recognizes Buffy is a free-spirited butterfly and knows not when he might get another chance to speak to her of such matters in person. Bird in the hand, strike when the iron’s hot and all that. I chuckled as you conjured the image of a whole order of porn stars riding under the banner of the white stallion.

Renee- Buffy’s piece of 'Gathering Aide for Bruma’ is limited to Leyawiin and Bravil – other emissaries are soliciting help from the other counties. Part of my thinking here is that by limiting her to two counties, we hope to go into reasonable detail with each without risking repetitiveness or bogging down the story. Count Caro does indeed know that Buffy closed the gate outside his north wall: “Caelia informs me that Leyawiin is once again in your debt, this time for single-handedly closing an Oblivion Gate just outside our walls.” As I mentioned to SubRosa, I do think Marius was ‘on the rebound’ as well as unsure when he would see Buffy the Butterfly again. Though I believe Buffy could make a good countess, Marius’ chances with her were, of course, zero for reasons that include the ones you mentioned. She’ll actually muse a bit on her time in Leyawiin early in this next episode as she heads north to Bravil.

Grits- Your perceptions on each of the passages or themes you mentioned are exactly what I was hoping to portray in terms of blending humor, sobering thoughts, beauty, tragedy and – above all – the fundamental grace and goodness in Buffy’s heart. As ever, thank you for your insightful encouragement.

*

All- Were this a hard copy novel, the reader would note their bookmark now resting almost precisely at the midway point. As the Oblivion Crisis relentlessly moves to its ultimate resolution, I hope you will enjoy how Buffy’s supporting role continues to weave its way into more or less familiar events. The seed that Boderi Farano planted about joining her as a paladin will continue to grow as well and, before the end of the book, the Nine will reveal their intent in that regard.

* * *

~ Part 4 – Aide from Bravil ~

Episode 19

White stones marking the Ayleid ruins of Bawn grew from the forest’s floor near the Niben to my right as Superian carried me north along the Green Road.

Acadian teased, “Countess Buffy has a nice sound to it, don’t you think?”

“Oh stop it!” I scolded. “Though I’m flattered by his offer and truly hope Count Caro finds a worthy mate someday, I figure it’s too soon after the death of Alessia for him to really know what he wants. Besides he’s far too old for me and I’m hardly interested in being cooped up in a castle hosting parties and holding court or whatever countesses do.” I sighed. “As far as Alessia Caro goes, I want to feel pity for her but all I can muster is anger over how she exposed those I call friends to mortal danger.”

We rode quietly for a bit longer. To my left, the afternoon sunshine warmed my shoulder and silhouetted the gray tower of a former Legion fort. It had been purchased years ago by Castle Bravil’s court mage. Fathis Aren kept the place highly warded, presumably to ensure privacy for his research.

“I confess the title Dame suits you better,” offered the paladin. “At least your quest in Leyawiin was successful.”

“Aye, that it was,” I replied. “A score of White Stallion Knights will be a potent addition to the forces defending Bruma.” Since Acadian seemed in a conversational mood and I knew Superian didn’t mind listening, I continued, “Sir Flavius is an interesting, even compelling, man. It’s clear he is devoted to his knights and has certainly accomplished much during his tenure as Knight Commander. There’s no doubt he’s quite fluent in courtly matters, but,” I paused to chuckle, “he’s certainly not shy with his quickly-formed and strong opinions. Like the stallion namesake of his order, Flavius seems well-bred, strong-willed, and surely a challenge to -"

My musings were interrupted when several pink glows of life blossomed at the edge of my twin rings’ ability to detect them. "Now what's that up ahead?” I could identify the unmistakable and large shape of a horse. Nearby, what seemed likely a dismounted Legion rider was engaged in combat with a pair of small round hovering glows. “Wills-o-the-wisp!” At my urging, Superian burst into a thunderous run, and the trees between us and the fight ahead flew past.

As I drew her to an abrupt stop just short of the Legion bay and leaped to the ground, I dismissed a twinge of guilt for intentionally using the other horse as a shield for my own mare. As one of the sparkling creatures fell I was relieved to see that the soldier’s blade could overcome his foes’ resistance to mundane weapons. The man likely had a small enchantment on his arming sword for just this type of situation. Roaring, “For the Empire!” he turned to face the other wisp.

With the soldier between me and the wisp, I raced toward them. Trying to use my bow against the tiny target erratically dancing around the moving man was out of the question due to the risk of friendly fire. To make matters worse, wisps were immune to my illusion spells. He would have to do the killing, but I hoped to reach him in time to keep him healed.

A beam of orange magic reached out from the wisp and began sapping the man’s life.

Suddenly a Khajiit burst from the trees beyond the deadly fight. With a speed much greater than mine, bootless cat feet closed the distance. A short blade held in each forepaw slashed into what I imagined to be the back of the wisp.

Before my feet could deliver me close enough to touch the soldier’s back with a restorative spell, he collapsed.

With no steel standing in front of me for protection, and both hands overflowing with white healing magic, I stared in terror at the sparkling foe hovering before me. My feet frantically scrambled to back up and open some distance. Though the soldier was down, it was now the Khajiit who still made it too risky to use my bow. Kitsune appeared at my side but her illusory yips to draw my attacker’s ire were ignored. As orange magic reached out for me, I began to channel the healing magic that filled my hands into myself. Mercifully, a final slash from one of the Khajiit’s flashing blades exploded our foe into a shower of glowing dust.

The feline skirmisher and I stared at each other only long enough for me to see that she appeared uninjured before I dropped to my knees beside the soldier. The pale glow of his fading life extinguished before I could lay on my hands to attempt a healing. “H-he’s gone.” I removed his helm and gently placed a hand on the Imperial’s cheek.

“The brave human’s name was Octavius Amatiu.” I glanced over to see the Khajiit on one knee reading the back of the soldier’s shield.

I raised my tearful eyes toward a passing white cloud. “Mara, this soldier, Octavius, has risen beyond his shell of flesh and steel. I commend you his spirit and ask that your loving hand guide his journey.”

The Khajiit was now on her feet and I looked up at her as she stared sadly at the soldier’s body. I slipped off my rings to see her more clearly. She wore elven-made armor without helm. All four paws were wrapped in a mixture of leather and cloth, leaving her claws exposed. Cream colored fur was liberally accented with dark markings, reminiscent of a snow leopard, and a shock of red mane swept back over her head. “Thank you for trying to help this man, and for very likely saving me and both horses.”

“I am sorry I did not arrive sooner.”

I noted that she did not speak in the traditional Khajiiti manner, which often occurred when a kit was raised by another race. . . or under the yoke of slavery. As I rose to my feet, I realized that she was Daenlin’s height – not even a head taller than I. Both ears were adorned with loops of gold. A thin white scar ran almost vertically down one side of her muzzle. She appeared to be evaluating me as well.

“I am called Buffy.”

“My name is Aravi.”

*

Note: Aravi is the character of King Coin, presented here during her latter days in Oblivion before moving to Skyrim. KC and I collaborated on the scene several years ago and Buffy’s fiction has finally advanced to where it belongs. Aravi’s appearance will continue into the next episode before the two say farewell.

[SubRosa]

I am just imagining Countess Buffy and her friends at a dinner party, and suddenly everyone's clothes vanishes! Oh wait, we don't have to imagine that do we?

Wills-o-the-wisp or Willo-o-wisps? Now there is an authors conundrum.

Things are really going from bad to worse in this sudden encounter with the Wisps! You have quite ably manage to inject a real sense of danger into the story, which is not easy with a character who is by now so able as Buffy. Kudos!

Aravi! It is great to meet an old friend.

[haute ecole rider]

It certainly sounds to me like Buffy was impressed by this Sir Flavius in more ways than one

I hate losing those Legion riders! That is why I crowned them in my game (and named them, too). So sad to lose one - Cyrodiil can spare none of them.

Aravi! So good to see her again! She has been sorely missed on these pages.

[Grits]

Bootless cat feet! Flashing blades! It’s Aravi!!

Racing to help the Legion rider when she knows her Illusion spells and bow won’t help her is my favorite Buffy moment in the story so far. I could hear that wisp absorb noise when it turned on her. Yikes.

[Lopov]

Like haute, I also feel that Buffy was greatly impressed by stallion-like Sir Flavius.

A thrilling battle - as SubRosa points you, you created a sense of imminent danger when WotW focused on Buffy.

Nice to include Aravi to the book, that was an unexpected surprise.

[ghastley]

You need to tell Buffy to open up Options, (or is it Settings?) and turn off friendly fire.

There are so many things that help the solo adventurer, but hinder them in teamwork, especially invisibility. Never let an Archer behind you when you're invisible!

And great to see Aravi get another guest appearance. Does this mean KC is about to add more adventure with Buffy as a guest?

[Acadian]

Previously- With her task in Leyawiin complete, Buffy rode north toward Bravil. Along the way, she tried to assist a Legion rider battling a pair of wills of the wisp. The fight did not go well but was somewhat salvaged by the sudden appearance of a Khajiit skirmisher. The soldier did not survive. Buffy learned the Khajiit’s name is Aravi.

*

SubRosa- If Buffy were Countess, all her parties would be clothes optional of course. Thank you for your comments about Buffy’s fight. I try to make most her fights rather decisive, even elegant, but sometimes (much to her chagrin) she does encounter moments of sheer terror.

Rider- I’m with you. Buffy used to often temporarily adjust Superian’s speed to match Legion bays and just ride along with those Legion riders, helping them and even repairing their gear after fights.

Grits- KC and I drafted this scene way back before Aravi moved to Skyrim. It’s a joy to feature her in the last and next episode. That fight was indeed another example of Buffy instinctively charging in to help someone without considering the cost.

Lopov- Buffy was indeed intrigued by Flavius. I suspect in some ways he reminds her of Savlian. Noble in character and strong enough to wield steel and face challenges head on instead of relying on the crutches that Buffy’s fragility requires (subtleness, speechcraft, stealth, illusions, range. . .).

ghastley- I confirmed with KC some time ago that he’s still fine with me using the scene, but this two-episode cameo with Aravi will be their only time together in Book 3. I don’t know if he has any plans to continue presenting Aravi's adventures. No friendly fire is definitely a nice feature of ESO. One reason we want to bring the Oblivion Crisis to a close is to achieve a good point of 'completion' for Buffy to subsequently learn time travel and finally allow her fiction to move beyond the Third Era.

* * *

Episode 20

As soon as Aravi and I gripped each other’s forearm in a warrior clasp, I experienced a sharp twinge in my lower abdomen. Acadian felt it too, for he silently warned, ’It’s only been two months. You know what this means.’ The paladin was better with dates than I, and he was right. My next semiannual time of fertility, with its attendant cramping, wasn’t due for four more months. This was a Slayer’s warning of nearby vampires. The pain eased noticeably as we broke our grip.

An instinctive glance skyward verified more than adequate afternoon sunshine to burn vampires. My eyes then traveled to those of the skirmisher in front of me. Hers were green, with no hint of red or gold. This Khajiit was no vampire, but it was certain that she was infected. “I am a skilled healer. Are you injured?”

“The first wisp was dead before I got within its range. The second remained focused on the soldier, then you, allowing me to safely kill it. I am uninjured.”

Did she not realize she carried the disease of vampirism?

By now, Superian and her new Legion friend had wandered over to join us. The soldier’s mare nudged the armored corpse, then both horses snorted and backed away a few paces. “I want to check Octavius’ mount for injuries.” My glowing hands quickly confirmed the bay was fine, but I intentionally lingered while inspecting the animal, giving me time to think. While I was pleased that Aravi wasn’t injured, the fact that she had no wounds for me to heal eliminated a comfortable avenue for me to reveal that she was diseased. The only mortal on Nirn who knew I was a Slayer was Boderi Farano. I didn’t care to be known as a freak of Azura, and I certainly didn’t want vampires hunting me down trying to prove themselves by killing a Slayer.

I looked at Aravi, who was collecting the residual glow dust from our foes into a small pouch. She glanced my way and said, “I am not familiar with how Imperials honor their dead. Should we offer his body to the soil? Fire? Water?”

“I would build a flaming pyre for him if alone and far from help," I replied. "Fortunately, neither is the case today. Bravil is my destination and but a short ride to the north. I would like to deliver Octavius’ body and horse to the city guard there. If you would permit it, I can cast spells to strengthen the two of us and reduce the soldier’s weight long enough to lift him over the back of his horse for one final ride. I think we can get him there before dark.”

“I am willing to help secure this brave man to his horse and think your plan is a sound one. I will not accompany you though, for my destination is Fort Redman to the south.”

Between the two of us and my spells, we were able to muscle the Imperial over the back of his mare without adding the indignity of stripping off his heavy armor. As we lashed him into position, Acadian convicted me with his silent words, ’Buffy, your skill as a healer implies responsibilities that the elf I know does not retreat from.’

Aravi strapped the soldier’s shield across the man’s back while I rigged his sword belt over the Legion mare’s pommel. Acadian was right. It was the role of Slayer I rejected, not that of healer. “Fort Redman,” I offered, “is reputed to be a vampire lair.”

“Yes. I hunt them. For reasons that are my own.”

We stepped to the front of the horse and I met her gaze. “Aravi, I have. . . abilities. Among other things, I can sense the presence of vampires. I detect the taint of vampirism on you and believe that you are infected.”

Both ears flattened back, but her expression gave no further clue to her reaction. I could see the tip of her tail as it flicked out to one side then the other. Green eyes gazed beyond me toward the Niben for a time before returning to study my face. After several more long moments she spoke, “As a vampire hunter, I have been infected and cured many times. There comes a dangerous point, somewhere between immunity and vampirism where the taint remains, but the darkness is hopefully kept at bay. I find it necessary to seek spells or potions on almost a daily basis to manage the condition.”

“I am unfamiliar with what you describe but freely offer my curative magicks. I can remove the simple form of porphyric hemophilia before a patient is fully turned. I don’t know if I have the skill to provide you a more permanent solution. Would you like me to try? As a healer, I promise discretion. All I ask in return is the same from you regarding my abilities.”

Both ears perked up and her eyes reflected a ray of what I thought might be hope. “You may count on me to return your discretion. As for my illness,” she exhaled as if reaching a decision, “I would appreciate your attempt to lift its curse.”

I nodded. “My healing is rather like that of a priest and I will be laying both hands upon you. Relax for me, please.” I quickly drank a potion. Its blend of chamomile, ginger, primrose and cinnamon would ease the cramping that I expected to worsen while in physical contact with Aravi. Filling my hands with white magic, I placed one upon each side of her face.

As arcane power flowed through the intimate bond between us, I noted countless old wounds. Some had been healed by experts, others by amateurs or potions. I ignored them as I searched for disease. Although clearly similar to porphyric hemophilia, what I found was more persistent – as if partially integrated within every organ. I was startled as a horrifying scene flashed into my mind of several sleeping patrons inside an inn being slaughtered. Just as suddenly the vision was replaced by leaves and branches whipping past in near darkness. The sprint stopped at the crest of a ridge, revealing the first rays of a new sun. Then the frightening images ceased.

I transitioned my focus from diagnostic to therapeutic. First I tried a general healing spell. The disease diminished greatly, but traces remained. I began to understand why Aravi experienced only temporary relief with normal spells or potions.

Refining the focus and intensity of my magic, I was able to completely eliminate the disease from a small portion of her body. Encouraged, I worked methodically from one area to the next, from organ to organ. By the time I was almost done, my heart sank. The disease had already begun to reappear in the first areas I had treated! I continued this for a time until the futility became clear. As my desperation grew, I tried to absorb her disease into my own body for I knew that, as a Slayer, I could not be turned. By the time that proved unsuccessful, I was exhausted and low on magicka. Reluctantly, I allowed the healing bond to dissipate and lowered my hands.

As Aravi’s eyes read mine, the hint of hope they had held was replaced by a look of stoic disappointment.

“I’m sorry, Aravi. I was able to temporarily improve your condition significantly, but it moves from one organ to another, reappearing faster than I can fully cure it. I tried several techniques to no avail. I expect you’ll continue to require frequent spells or potions to keep this at bay as you search for a permanent cure.”

“Thank you for the attempt, even though it was not successful.” She glanced over one shoulder at the sun now kissing the treetops. “I am comfortable traveling at night and, since you want to reach Bravil before dark, let us be on our separate ways.”

“May green grasses and cool waters ease your path, Aravi.”

“Farewell, Buffy.” She returned my smile before slipping noiselessly into the forest.

As Superian and I led the Legion mare and her cargo north toward Bravil, I commented to Acadian, “That was a terrifying feeling, being helplessly unable to use my bow to defend myself against that wisp with Aravi in the way.”

“Remember it well, Buffy,” replied Acadian, “for in order to fully understand the importance of defending the defenseless, you must experience the plight of feeling powerless yourself.”

“Are you trying to train me as a paladin?” I teased.

[SubRosa]

Uh oh, Buffy is getting cramps. I remember what that means!

I loved Buffy's conundrum here, and wanting to protect her identity as The Slayer. It not only hearkens me back to a certain TV show whose name Buffy shares, but it also reminds me of superheros.

Well that is thrown out there. We will see how this goes.

I liked the touch of Buffy brewing a quick potion to lessen her cramping before she begins healing.

I enjoyed your description of Buffy searching through Aravi for the disease, and then combating it. It reminds me of shamanic healing. In their traditions, disease is caused by evil spirits. To cure someone, you travel to the spirit world, find the spirit responsible, and defeat it.

Finally, a brave admission of feeling fear and powerlessness. And a wise observation that feeling empathy for those in such straits, is an important component to fighting for them. Otherwise you end up fighting not for the people you purport to protect (can I alliterate that any more?), but rather for your own ego. That can only end badly for everyone. This was where January started from as a superhero, and it is always her foundation. Looks like Avery will have to make a new cape for Buffy!

[Renee]

uffy’s piece of 'Gathering Aide for Bruma’ is limited to Leyawiin and Bravil – other emissaries are soliciting help from the other counties. Part of my thinking here is that by limiting her to two counties, we hope to go into reasonable detail with each without risking repetitiveness or bogging down the story.

Sure, that makes sense. Otherwise ES6 might finally be out by the time you're wrapping up the Main Quest from 2006.

Aw, sounds like she's blaming herself for the guard's demise. After all the adventuring she's done, she's not truly hardened yet.

WHOA she meets Aravi!!! Nice. I remember King Coin's character. Wherever Coin is.

Buffy has Cure Disease. Very good. Interesting that Aravi would not already know how to cure this herself. I wonder if that's based on KC's roleplay somehow.

This post has been edited by Renee: Apr 29 2020, 06:49 PM