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

[SubRosa]

"I caught the little fetcher high on skooma, kicking Aia, the begger."
Way to go Gladius! It is a good thing Teresa did not see that, or the Count would be looking for a new son (and she would probably be hiding out in Black Marsh or Valenwood)!

"We're here to serve, citizen."
This had me laughing out loud as well!

Why do sometimes I wake up and feel more skillful?
Because you just went up a level? Does this mean a trip to the Arena is immanent? Yes I think it does.

A nice, pleasant episode as Buffy ruminates on her plans and motivations, and spends some quality time with Gladius and Superian.


nits:
kicking Aia, the begger."
A typo in beggar.

[Destri Melarg]

I don’t have much to add to what has already been said. This one was over far too quickly! I’ll have some MORE, please.

[Remko]

I can relate to that. A horse indeed senses your mood. If you are distracted while riding and you have a properly trained horse he/she will immediately try to take the piss out of you. Forget to support the horse with your legs a couple strides, same result.

Funny story H.E.R. I always felt knees don't really do that much because of the leather. But it's fair to estimate you are a far superior rider compared to my (rather rusty) riding skill. If I ever decide to pick it up some day, I am gonna try it. I doubt the instructor will appreciate it though hahaha.

[Casper1984]

"Ha! Shops. Women," teased Gladius as he waved.

My 1st nit: "Ha! Shops. Women.",

"Acadian, you can chime right in here if you like. Why do sometimes I wake up and feel more skillful? That happened again yesterday. I now seem a little smarter, more nimble and even better able to control my will.

Lol, nice. That's called leveling up, Buffy!

"Every time I wake up with that feeling, I'm drawn to the Arena for another match. When I checked my raiment this morning, I counted the notches. This will be fight number twelve."

Wait, what? Next thing you know Buffy is the Grand Champion. By Azura!

[treydog]

The interaction between Buffy and Gladius was wonderfully written, giving us a glimpse of the guard’s personality and honor.

"I want to get there before the shops close."

Ah, Buffy is learning to turn stereotypes to her advantage. As any hunter knows, there are a number of ways to ambush the prey.

These episodes of internal dialogue and introspection are among my favorites, because we get to follow along as Buffy learns more about herself.

[Winter Wolf]

As others have said, it is the quiet chapters that give us time to think about the real girl beneath the pointy ears. Her care and concern for guard and horse says a lot about our little Bosmer.

So different to the way Aradroth treats Gladius, lol.

More, more!!

[Linara]

Looks like another decent soldier has been found. I must admit, when I read the first sentence I expected Buffy to be kicking Gladius's boat back to Skyrim! It's good she's made peace about it. The last few chapters have been very good indeed. Sounds like Buffy is done with the Daedric Lords for now...

[Acadian]

Chapter 46 was the first of a two-part story that found Buffy departing Bravil for the Imperial City. It seems she is determined to risk another Arena match.

Foxy- Thank you. I can think of no higher compliment for what we are trying to do than when you say reading Buffy is like curling up by a warm fire. For you to call my writing smooth and silky makes my heart sing. Readers, to fully appreciate the humble gratitude I feel as a result of Foxy's compliment, one has to understand that it comes from someone who can write this:

"Here Morkwin paused, and his eyes rested on a butterfly. Shimmering and opalescent, its wings made a visual poem of a tender beauty in the air as it danced on the soft breeze. Strange how I had never noticed before, how much like a woman’s eyelashes the dark border on the edge of its wings looked….it landed on a tiger orchid, even as Morkwin continued –"

Rider- Buffy has come to quite trust Superian's judgment when it comes to assessing people. Thanks for your warm encouragement when we pause to display the quieter times in Buffy's life.

mALX- Thank you so very much for likening Buffy to what I would call 'comfort food'. As I mentioned to friend Foxy, I can think of no higher compliment for what Buffy and I are trying to accomplish. Thanks to the guidance of yourself and dear Rider, Buffy has grown so very close to Superian - both in her game and story.

SubRosa- You're exactly right; the Count's son no doubt fared better under the rough, but just hand of Gladius than he would have at the pointy end of Red's bow! Our reference here, for other readers of course, is to the fact that Wretched Aia will become a friend to Teresa in her future. When Buffy puffed herself up to impersonate the statement of a Legion soldier, I had to practice that in front of a mirror to check that it worked - I suspect that really would have had you laughing. Thank you for the kind words, and catching my typo.

Destri- Thank you! The next episode will complete this two-parter, and I know you will pick up on some distant foreshadowing.

Remko- Thanks! I appreciate your horsemanship and insight! Buffy relies heavily on the mystical aspects of being an elf, and having a spiritual connection to 'her little pony'.

Casper- Thank you so much for your keen eye. I do sometimes struggle with dialogue punctuation, so I carefully reviewed my references, sought the opinion of a master, and came to the conclusion that it was correct in this case. I really appreciate that you gave me the opportunity to research and review it to make sure.

Yes, reading between the lines, we see Buffy has just advanced to level twelve, while increasing her intelligence, agility and willpower. It is a small reminder in our story that although Buffy is very real, she does indeed live in the wonderfully magical game world of TES.

Buffy, the Grand Champion? In the last episode, she alluded that she hoped to learn the courage she sought before the Arena could kill her. In this next episode, she makes it clear how she feels about challenging the Grand Champion.

treydog- Thank you, for touching on two 'foreshadow' type things. First, Gladius' hard-nosed but just and equitable view of law enforcement does not seem to fit in very well in Bravil. I don't think he will be happy there. Secondly, Buffy is beginning to hone her verbal dueling/deception skills.

Wolf- Thank you! It is clear to me, that Buffy has a deep admiration for - even drawn to - noble hearts wrapped and armed with steel. Perhaps that's because they represent something she can never aspire to herself. Although she doesn't fully understand it, she will display it again in this very next episode.

Linara- Thank you. I was also pleased that Buffy has made peace with Gladius. She will not be rushing through the quests of Daedra Lords so quickly now. In fact, she will deal with only two more of them before Acadian finally leads her to the one she seeks.

* * *

47 Action in the Presence of Fear, Part 2

The Grand Champion of the Arena was awe-inspiring to watch. The orc with grayish-green skin was relentlessly destroying another wooden target. His majestic grace and power reminded me of Superian.

Agronak gro-Malog paused his training and reached for a jug of water. "Buffy, I see you're on the schedule this afternoon. Good luck."

"Thank you Agronak, but I know you say the same to my opponent." Seated on a bench in the Bloodworks, I carefully sighted down the arrows I had selected to make sure they were perfectly straight.

"You're right." The orc smiled. "I shall congratulate the victor and mourn the vanquished. That's the nature of life and death in the Arena."

Satisfied with the arrows, I returned them to my quiver. "Why do you do this, Agronak?"

"Buffy, I'm a half breed with no real family. Before she died, Mother told me that Father was a human - some kind of noble. But no one believes an orc can be a noble. In the Arena though, I'm a hero - the Gray Prince. I figure that's as close as I'll ever get."

"I believe orcs can be noble," I said quietly. "Why don't you become a knight or maybe even a paladin? That way you could apply your skills toward chivalrous things and help people who are weaker than you." I didn't add that weaker than this orc probably included everyone in Cyrodiil. "Surely it must be a lonely existence to stay cooped up in here, smashing targets and waiting for a challenger to someday kill you."

"Heh, you have a point there, but who would make an orc a knight?" His face then got quite serious. "And you're right. It does get lonely."

"I'll bet the right woman could coax you away from this life, Agronak."

He raised an eyebrow and looked down at me appraisingly. "Is that an offer?"

All the skin not covered by my skimpy raiment suddenly blossomed with a pink warmth. "Oh no!" I sputtered. "I-I meant simply that-"

Agronak flashed a toothy grin, his upper lip catching on one of his fangs. "I'm joking, Buffy. No offense, but I need a sturdy woman who can hold her own with a blade. A powerful sparring partner. An Orsimer woman."

Not quite sure whether I was relieved or insulted, I quickly nodded my head. "That's what I meant, of course."

He took a long drink, then dragged the back of a giant fist across his mouth. "Why do you compete? You're kind of small for this business aren't you?"

The question caught me by surprise, then I smiled. "Well, I'm a half breed with no real family just like you. I don't feel like a hero though. In fact I'm scared to death every time I walk up that ramp. By the time I get to the gate, I'm almost ready to pee in my raiment and run away. That's why I'm here though; to conquer that fear."

The Gray Prince planted his water jug on a nearby table and looked down at me. "I see." He was several times my weight and his rippling upper arms were bigger than my waist. "When we stop being afraid, it's time to quit. Remember this, Buffy: Courage is not the absence of fear; rather, it is action in the presence of fear."

I had unstrung Slayer's staff and was now bending it to accept a new silk bowstring. "I know an old paladin who tells me the same thing." Thankful for his encouragement, I looked up and added, "and you're a hero to me Agronak, whether you're in the Arena or not."

The orc smiled and picked up his blade. I heard the crash before it fully registered that in the blink of an eye, he had crouched, spun and shattered the wooden training dummy with a vicious slash. He winked at me as he bellowed, "Owyn, I'm gonna need another target out here."

I knew in that moment, that I would never challenge Agronak gro-Malog, Grand Champion of the Arena.

Digging through my pack, I continued preparing for the match. In my mortar and pestle I added some water, then ground in several herbs: milk thistle, dryad saddle polypore cap, harrada and green stain cup. The special poison that resulted would inflict four effects upon my opponent.

*

I paused at the bottom of the steps and looked up at the afternoon brightness of the Arena. The sun would be on my left side for this match. After poisoning three arrows, I carefully slid two of them into the sheath strapped to my right calf. I mentally rehearsed my intended actions one more time. Just because I had a plan didn't mean the yellow team combatant had to cooperate; I cleared my mind and hoped for the mental agility to be able to adjust if needed.

I knew a couple things for certain: This fight would be measured in seconds instead of minutes, and I could afford precisely zero mistakes.

With Slayer filling one hand, a poisoned arrow in the other, and my stomach churning, I started up the stone steps.

"Good people of the Imperial City." The booming voice silenced the crowd. The announcer then changed his tone to a thundering guttural growl that ignited the sea of spectators to cheering. "Welcome, to the Arena!"

For the twelfth time in my life those words brought my heart to my throat. Buffy, execute your plan. Nocking my first poisoned arrow, I aimed through the gate.

Concentrating on my target, I pulled him more clearly into view. I was expecting to see the orc, but it was still a sobering sight as the sun glinted off the blade of his axe. I swallowed hard, knowing I could not allow this first arrow to miss. That my opponent was such a massive target was scant comfort. Action in the presence of fear. As the gate came down, I drew silk to cheek, adjusted my final aim point and loosed the arrow.

The orc was fast. He was halfway across the Arena before the impact of my arrow and Slayer's enchantments caused him to pause, and sparks to dance around his body. My poison flooded into him, darkening his green skin. He collapsed, paralyzed, taking frost damage, losing health and having his speed slowly but permanently reduced. Within seconds however, he struggled to his feet and resumed his charge, slightly slowed now.

Calling forth the energy of Cobra's Dance, magic flew from my fingertips. The emerald snake was still swirling through the air as I reached toward my right thigh for the tail of a second arrow. My serpent struck the orc in his chest, paralyzing him again and adding more damage over time. He collapsed, but momentum carried him within two paces of me, showering my feet with sand. His axe was still firmly in his grasp.

I waited with my bowstring partially drawn. I didn't want to risk angle-skipping this arrow off the heavy raiment of the prone orc. He stirred. I knew within the next few seconds one of us would be dead. Struggling to his elbows, he looked up and our eyes met. I loosed my arrow into the exposed flesh at the junction of his throat and chest. The impact at this range jerked his hulking mass back to the sand.

It was over.

I stared down at my dead opponent, the announcer booming meaningless words and the crowd roaring. Shaking now, I had controlled my fear for only as long as had been necessary.

I looked up at the sea of timid souls cheering in the stands. None of them were worthy to even carry the axe of the almost unstoppable combatant at my feet.

"Rest in peace, Gladiator."

I turned and headed down the tunnel to the Bloodworks, blinking back a tear. Whatever stupid lust I had for battle was gone now. In fact I felt sick. Quickening my pace, I got to the renewal basin at the end of the tunnel as I started to retch.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Nov 14 2010, 04:59 PM

[MyCat]

An Orismer woman.

I think you want "Orsimer" here?

Also, if she fights an Arena match every time she levels up, and she has won twelve matches before this one (twelve notches,) this is her thirteenth level up making her level fourteen. You start out at level one, not zero. Or did I miss something?

[Acadian]

Let me pop in briefly to hopefully deflect any confusion, distraction or counting of fingers/toes regarding Buffy's correct level.

Buffy had just achieved level twelve at this point, there are two factors here:

1. Quoting from the previous chapter, "When I checked my raiment this morning, I counted the notches. This will be fight number twelve." Buffy is saying there were eleven notches on her raiment, and her next fight would be twelve.

2. The second factor is how/when she started, and therein lies some potential for confusion. She did her first fight, before ever leveling up (at level one) to help earn passage home to Bravil. Upon achieving level two, she fought her second fight. Although it is now 'triggered' by her leveling up, her first fight occurred at level one; this helped us keep her level and number of fights matched up.

So sorry for any confusion, and I so hope it won't distract from this episode.

I also think Buffy is hinting strongly that she may have finally cured herself of her 'Arena addiction' with this fight. I hope so, since I hate taking my shoes off to count her levels.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Nov 14 2010, 06:24 PM

[haute ecole rider]

Bravo, Buffy!

Yes, Agronak is right about fear and courage. If you stop being scared in dangerous situations, it's time to get out or you're going to die.

And kudos to Buffy for deciding not to pursue the Grand Championship.

The thing I always hated about the Arena is that someone has to die. Where's the sport in that? While I'm no fan of the fighting sports (boxing, wrestling, martial arts, etc), I'm cool with fighting until one is beaten, but not until one is maimed or killed. You don't need to go that far to prove who's your daddy.

This is a wonderful chapter because we see Buffy developing a growing empathy for the people in her life, not just her friends but also her opponents. They, too, are flesh and blood, though sometimes it's easy to forget when they're trying to kill you!

[SubRosa]

"Heh, you have a point there, but who would make an orc a knight?"
Hmmm, now who might do that...

It is good to see Agronak making a larger appearance, and I suspect as large an impression upon Buffy. Once more we see one more brick being placed into Buffy's emotional foundation as a warrior. She has had the skills for some time, the only thing she really lacks is the experience and that mindset. Things which her recent adventures have been slowly but steadily giving her.

On that note, you give us an excellent portrayal of Buffy's pre-battle jitters, and tie them in firmly with the advice of the Grand Champion.

We also see the in-game tips and tricks that gave Buffy her birth so long ago. Quite the deadly mix that our Miss Buff has in her cocktail!

An excellent bit of reality at the very end, where Buffy holds her last shot because the angle would have caused it to deflect her arrow. Instead she waits until she can get the shot at an exposed area.

And finally, an affirmation of Buffy's own elfmanity at the end, with her sympathy for her opponent. I suspect this will be her last arena match.

[mALX]

I felt shades of Sarrah's encounter with the Ogre in this chapter - the one that sent her over the edge for a while. Awesome Write! My fave part was your perfect description of (Wes Johnson) "The Voice of the Arena" - you nailed it !!!

This post has been edited by mALX: Nov 15 2010, 01:54 AM

[Destri Melarg]

God’s goolies! Is our Buffy playing matchmaker? Black Bow Bandits beware! And if Agronak doesn’t think an Orsimer can be a noble, I know a Lord who lives north of Cheydinhal who might disrobe him of his reprehensions. Of course, he would have to be careful not to impregnable or otherwise malleanate the Lady Rogbut. I’m sure if Mazoga were with him it wouldn’t be a problem. By the Nine, wouldn’t that be a dinner conversation well worth the eavesdropping?!

I am glad to see Buffy reach the end of her taste for the Arena. It just doesn’t fit the person she is becoming, or the task that she has inadvertently set for herself. I suppose she will just have to find another way to test herself on those mornings when she wakes up feeling smarter.

[Linara]

And there you have it why I can never finish the Arena storyline. Or the side quest for that matter.

I am glad to see Buffy reach the end of her taste for the Arena. It just doesn’t fit the person she is becoming, or the task that she has inadvertently set for herself. I suppose she will just have to find another way to test herself on those mornings when she wakes up feeling smarter.

I'll second that. Anyone who feels guilty over a Legion soldier doesn't really belong in the Arena... Linara always celebrates those mornings with several bottles of mead, so I can't say much for her intelligence, but it's nice to have some sort of ritual, not just the mundane 'pick three to level up and cue triumphant music' bit. A nice chapter.

[treydog]

The scene with Agronak was quite good- Buffy shows her people (Orc?) skills in that exchange. And she reveals a bit of her own dreams even as she tells the Grand Champion that he needs to find a “good woman.”

Just because I had a plan didn't mean the yellow team combatant had to cooperate…

That’s why he is called “the enemy.”

The unadorned description of the combat and Buffy’s reaction to it make me believe this is the last of her Arena matches. And the fact that she had a relatively personal conversation with Agronak just moments before facing another Orsimer is significant, as well. Our bow-girl appears to have learned another hard lesson in the only way that matters. Rather in the same way that the bump in the bridge of my nose is a reminder to not do stupid things…

This post has been edited by treydog: Nov 17 2010, 06:18 PM

[Acadian]

In Chapter 47, Buffy shared some history with the Grand Champion of the Arena, learning they have some things in common. She then managed to survive her twelfth Arena match. Perhaps she has learned enough about the nature of fear and courage to discontinue her Arena career.

MyCat - Thank you for catching my typo on Orsimer. I already addressed Buffy's level and, again, apologize for any confusion.

Rider- Thanks. As a petrified youngster faced with my first parachute jump from a C-130 in 1974, an old salt told me, "No one cares if you're scared. What counts is doing what you're trained to do when the time comes." I'm so glad Buffy now understands that. I know Julian does.

SubRosa- Thank you for the kind words. I see of course that you, along with Destri, picked right up on my attempt to foreshadow some of Agronak's future. This was certainly an emotional episode for Buffy. I so hope the Arena has served its purpose for her.

mALX- Anytime a parallel is drawn between Buffy and Sarrah, it makes my heart sing. Thank you. For those not familiar, Sarrah (RIP) was Angel's older sister - both characters created and written about by bobg. Wes does indeed bring our hearts to our throats with his Arena announcements! I'm so humbled that my words conveyed some of that impact.

Destri- Yes, Buffy will be on the lookout for a strong Orsimer woman who needs a mighty orc to lock fangs with. I agree entirely in suspecting that Buffy has outgrown the Arena. She has more important, and just as dangerous tasks to attend to. Thank you.

Linara- Oooh! Thank you! Waking up feeling more skillful, and celebrating the fact with some mead Tamika's sounds wonderful! Buffy, don't you think that might be so much better than peeing your raiment, throwing up or getting killed in the Arena?

treydog- I actually suspect there was a subconscious part of Buffy that may have been experimenting with her flirting abilities during the scene with Agronak - I'm not sure. Any such possible intent on her part evaporated the moment it briefly appeared that he might be expressing interest in her. Who can fathom the mind of a young she-elf? Thank you for your kind comments. I take Buffy at her word that she will never challenge the Grand Champion.

* * *

48 The Sisters of Akatosh

As the pine forest surrendered glimpses of a stone chapel, I drew Superian to a stop next to a large moss-covered rock. As she stood quietly in the lush grassy undergrowth, I unrolled my map across the mare's neck.

I figured we were about half way along our trek from the Imperial City to the blue mark Acadian had placed on my map. Our destination was Sanguine's Shrine, northwest of Skingrad. Another day of travel, perhaps two.

The filtered streaks of sunlight that managed to slip through the forest came from ahead of us - low in the west. This might be just the place to stop for the night.

I slid to the ground and led Superian closer. The chapel, of cut stone, looked to be in fine condition, and its spire rose almost to the tops of the pines. On the forest floor, steel blue entoloma grew plentifully. Similarly, an abundant supply of lady's mantle nestled among the boulders and low-growing bushes.

A solitary farmhouse of natural stone and mortar, capped by a thatched roof, shared the small clearing with the chapel. Inside a small fenced plot that adjoined the house, carefully tilled soil sprouted vegetables and herbs. Wielding a rake, as she toiled in the garden, was a Bosmer wearing a simple blue and green dress.

"Hail," I declared. "I am a traveler and would welcome a friendly face."

She quickly turned her head my direction and stared briefly before replying, "forgive my surprise, young elf. Visitors are infrequent, but always welcome at Gottlesfont Priory." She leaned her rake against the fence and added, "I am Sister Agrond." Stepping to the door of the farmhouse, she pushed it open and called, "Phebe, we have a visitor."

Momentarily, a smallish women - in an oversized robe that was the color of the forest - appeared in the doorway. A matching hood largely obscured her face. "Good day, and welcome traveler." The gently lilting words marked her unmistakably as a Breton. I could not help but smile at her manner of dress, as images of green bags from the University flitted into my head.

Agrond continued, "this is Phebe Jeanard. We are Sisters of Akatosh and tend this priory. Have you journeyed far?"

"Well met, Sisters. I'm Buffy, from Bravil, and I've traveled from the Imperial City. It is late in the day. Might my weary horse and I prevail upon your hospitality for the night?"

"Of course," Agrond quickly replied. "You may stay as long as you like; we maintain a spare bed for travelers, and you're in time for supper. Turning to the Breton, she continued, "Phebe, would you please add another plate to our table?"

"Of course, Sister." With that, the hooded robe disappeared back into the house.

Agrond pointed to Superian. "We have a well that you're welcome to use. As you can see, there is also ample grazing." Her face was well-lined with age, but framed by honey-blond hair, and I felt welcome here as her brown eyes smiled warmly. "Why don't you tend to your horse's needs, then join Phebe and I."

"Thank you, Sister. That sounds perfect."

After the Bosmer went inside, I felt an insistent nudge against my back that pushed me toward the well. "Yes, Milady Superian. Your elf will fetch you a drink right away."

*

I cut another bite of boar cutlet and swirled it in the wonderful leek and mushroom sauce that also decorated several bites of roast potato and pumpkin on my plate. "This is a wonderful meal, Sisters. I'm grateful."

"Thank you," Phebe replied softly. The Breton had lowered her hood for dinner, revealing a pale face with plain features. Her thin brown hair that was cut rather short. I could see now that she was young - even more so than I. "We are blessed indeed," she continued. "Our small flock of settlers at neighboring Brindle Home provides fresh meat from hunting and even brings us a fine selection of wines from the nearby vineyards of Skingrad."

"And," added Agrond, "we grow much of our own food, and harvest the local alchemical ingredients. We even craft potions to barter for our other modest needs. The lady's mantle and steel blue entoloma that you no doubt noticed in the area, grows wild and is quite helpful for restoring health and magical energies."

I reached for the open bottle of Tamika's to refill our three pewter goblets. "How wonderful to live in such a bountiful part of the forest."

"Buffy," said Agrond as she dabbed a napkin to her mouth, "you said you were from Bravil. Are you a child of Mara?"

I nodded my head as I hurried to swallow a mouthful of potato. Wiping my lips, I replied, "yes. I studied each of the Nine Divines at the Arcane University, but it has always been Mara who speaks to my heart."

Agrond smiled broadly. "Good for you, child. Phebe and I will give our nightly prayers to Akatosh in the chapel after supper. Would you join us?"

"I'd like that," I said. "Can you pass the bread, please?"

*

As Agrond closed the heavy wooden door behind us, Phebe reverently lowered her hood again and said, "Welcome to our sanctuary."

The chapel itself was beautifully maintained, its floors fairly sparkling. The light from several sconces that lined the walls, combined with that of the abundant candles flanking the altar to provide a welcoming glow.

"Are there many such chapels to Akatosh?" I asked.

Phebe replied hesitantly, "I-I was born and raised in Brindle Home, and have never traveled. Agrond is still teaching me how to be a Sister. I heard there is a beautiful temple in the Imperial City?"

"Oh, I know the one," I said, immediately regretting my words. Perhaps I had made Phebe feel embarrassed about not being well-traveled.

"Yes, you are quite right, Phebe," rescued Agrond with a gentle smile. "There are three in Cyrodiil. Gottlesfont Priory right here, Temple of the One in the Imperial City, and," she paused as her eyes clouded, "the Chapel of Akatosh in Kvatch."

I breathed in sharply and pushed images of the flaming city walls from my mind. Not before Agrond noticed.

The Bosmer took my hand. "You have been to Kvatch since. . ?" Her words trailed off as she tilted her head.

I nodded slowly. "And you?"

"No," replied Agrond, "I've never traveled beyond Chorrol, Skingrad and the Imperial City. I was trained at Temple of the One. Sadly, I did not know any of the priests assigned to Kvatch. We can only hope that some of the townsfolk who didn't escape the city made it to the chapel."

Phebe beat me to my question. "What good would that do, Sister? I heard Daedra overran the city. How could anyone that didn't make it out survive?"

"I don't know for sure that they could," Agrond shrugged, "but I suspect that Akatosh would not suffer Daedra in his house."

My heart lifted. "Do you really think that's possible?"

"I do, Buffy. I believe Akatosh would protect members of his flock that sought the sanctuary of his chapel."

Phebe piped in, "Buffy, you said you went to the Arcane University. Can you summon a Daedra? I mean, we're standing in a house of Akatosh right now. Could we see if it's true?" Although speaking to me, Phebe's eyes sought those of Agrond.

I looked questioningly to the older Sister of Akatosh as well.

The Bosmer's brief look of uncertainly was replaced by a smile as she replied, "I don't see why not. Buffy, if you can cast such a spell, give it a try."

I hated scamps, but they were the only Daedra I knew how to call forth. I hadn't summoned one of the ugly creatures since the University, and it took a moment to recall the magic. I then allowed a glow to form in my hand. Once my fist contained enough energy, I released it into the air in front of me. As the orange cloud of magic settled, a form begin to materialize. As soon as the summon within became recognizable as a scamp, it fizzled and disappeared.

The three of us stood wordlessly, staring at each other. It was Phebe that broke the silence as she suddenly clapped her hands together and squealed, "oh, how exciting! It worked!" Her face quickly reddened as her hand flew to her mouth and she dropped to her knees. "I-I mean, of course it would work. Praise be to the glory and might of Akatosh, the First God, the Dragon God."

Agrond took Phebe by the arm, gently encouraging the Breton to her feet. "Don't be embarrassed by your youthful exuberance, Sister." With a sparkle in her eyes, she added, "Why, I expect perhaps even Akatosh himself may have been young at one time."

I smiled at the interaction between these two, as I identified with the self-conscious and wide-eyed Phebe. I could almost hear the loving guidance of Daenlin, Boderi or Kud-Ei, as Agrond wisely mentored her young charge.

My excitement at our wonderful discovery quickly faded as a troubling thought occurred. "Agrond, although it seems Akatosh could keep the Daedra from entering his chapel at Kvatch, how could anyone besieged inside survive?"

The Sister pointed up to a large stained-glass window. It featured a depiction of Akatosh, with the head of a dragon on one shoulder and an hourglass in his hands. "Behold the Dragon God of Time who can banish Daedra from his house and wields the hourglass of time itself. Do you not think he could arrange to feed and care for his flock for as long as necessary?" Despite the power of her words, Agrond's face was a gentle study in honest humility as she went on to admit, "I don't know the answer, Buffy, but I suspect Akatosh would not forsake those inside the protection of his sanctuary." She held out both hands - one each for Phebe and I to grasp. "Let us pray."

This post has been edited by Acadian: Nov 17 2010, 10:19 PM

[haute ecole rider]

What a lovely chapter! I always felt there was more to Gottlesfont Priory than you see in-game. For some reason I always think of Shrewsbury Abbey from the Brother Cadfael mysteries (I'm a fan of Brother Cadfael myself just because he's an old soldier ).

A couple of nits:

It was Phebe that broke the silence as she suddenly clapped her hands together and squealed, "oh, how exicting! It worked!"

I guess there was so much excitement that the c and the i leapfrogged each other.

"Agrond, although it seems Akatosh could keep the Daedra from entering his chapel at Kvatch, how could anyone survive besieged inside?"

The phrasing feels awkward to me. Perhaps - how could anyone inside survive being besieged? or maybe -how could anyone besieged within survive?

I loved the dinner at the Priory, and the explanation of how the sisters could eat so well living in such an out of the way place. Just one question, though - they're practically cheek-by-jowl with Fort Wooden Hand, a Marauder Fort! I suppose it's another example of Akatosh's benevolent protection, but then how does one explain the destruction of Akatosh's city? Ahh, the inconsistencies of Bethesda!

[mALX]

How cool, having Akatosh keeping Daedra away! And Buffy's likening the mentoring of the sisters to her own worthy mentors, that was very Buffy!! - and explaining how Kvatch will wait for her to arrive !!! Awesome Write !!!!

[Linara]

"welcome to our sanctuary."

A capital W perhaps? That was a very nice chapter, although I'm curious, is there really a Brindle Home and the chapel. Sounds like the kind of place Linara likes to visit. Once again you incorporate your skill to make touching characters such as Phebe and Agrond.