Buffy the Bowgirl, Book 1, Thread 4, Do You Know the Way to Kvatch? Options

[Ceidwad]

I would place a wager on this, but I have a feeling any bet I place is going to end up wrong.

So...

1,000 Septims that a dragon DOESN'T show up at the tournament, with a side bet of 50 Septims that Count Terentius and Countess Caro both remain uneaten through such an event.

This way, I can't lose. If it occurs, I get my money, and an extra Drake based on the odds. If it does occur, I lose my money, but consider it well worth the investment.

[Acadian]

Episode 107 saw the end of tournament qualifications. With the field of ten that will advance to the final day of competition set, Buffy's attention was drawn back to the missing scroll mystery. When she sought clues from the tournament betting, she was admonished by Aradroth that it was too early, and to come back later. Wandering to pass the time, she pondered the threat posed by Alawen to her master's title. She then had an encounter with Countess Alessia Caro that made her feel guilty for shooting in a tournament at all instead of slaying Daedra for Savlian Matius.

Rider- Thank you for liking the mixture of scenes in this episode. Yes, Buffy's quandary of who to support - she's thinking wrongly and waaay to much about it of course. She is so focused on what she perceives as loyalty to Daenlin that she doesn't pause to consider what he might want for her. Oh, it would be so fun to see Julian sort out that nasty Countess Leyawiin!

Ceidwad- Gosh, thank you for your detailed and delightful assessment! Living near Las Vegas, I was able to briefly fortify my meager gambling knowledge via some local consultation. Hee! Buffy just can't get her head around Schlera wearing a cuirass and a skirt; what good is shooting if you can't look good doing it?

ghastley- Thank you. That is a great thought about having Aradroth not quite qualify to help preserve his shadowy persona. Alas, Winter Wolf and I worked out the details long ago; hopefully, as long as he doesn't finish in the top few spots, it should not bring him much notice. We're gonna solve that pesky scroll mystery in this very next episode!

SubRosa- I'm so glad you enjoyed Buffy's three or four word summaries of each of the contestants to round them up while reminding us of what stuck out in Buffy's mind about each. Thanks also for enjoying our attempt at the betting banter. Thanks for the pair of nits so I could fix 'em. And finally, I so appreciate your focus on her misguided but well-intentioned moral quandary that will likely continue to cause her problems into the final competition.

King Coin- Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed Buffy worming her way among the crowd and the betting scene. You are so right in assessing how displeased Daenlin would be to realize some of what Buffy is thinking!

mALX- Yes! Buffy gets dismissed by Aradroth and obediently retraces her steps right back through the gauntlet. And you're right about how displeased Daenlin would be regarding her self-appointed sense of responsibility about who wins the tournament. For professing to not care about a 'silly tournament', Buffy the busybody seems quite intent on meddling and fussing over it a great deal!

Grits- Oh you are so right! Buffy would have loved a ride above the crowd on dear Mazoga's mighty shoulders! Thank you for highlighting the poignancy of Buffy's dilemma, even if it is self-inflicted. I suspect she will ask both Superian and Acadian for advice as her quandary deepens. Boy, that foul Countess can loose some zingers, can't she? The woman simply dribbles insult!

Captain Hammer- Lol. If 'dragon' includes the spirit of one, your bet could be in jeopardy! If only we could get Buffy to quit worrying and simply unfurl her wings on the firing line. . . . We don't have more planned really for Alessia in the tournament, but we'll get to see quite a bit of His Pompousness (Count Bravil) on the big day and at the awards presentation that follows.

Ceidwad- Heh. Thanks for reading!

* * *

108 The Tournament of Archers, Part 24- A Cold Price to Pay

I raised a mug of warm cider to my lips.

"I'm sorry we didn't have much of a proper fare for dinner this evening, Buffy." Delphine Jend lifted a napkin from her lap and dabbed at the corner of her mouth. "I think the rest of our mages are out doing some night shopping."

"Oh, I love bread and cheese. I could fill up on it every day," I said truthfully. "The town certainly is bursting with merchants. I spent some time wandering among their tents before dinner."

"It's refreshing to have some decent selection here, if only for a few days," said Delphine. "I love our guild chapter, but I must confess that I miss the big city." Her wistful look faded to be replaced by the more familiar aura of confidence that normally animated the woman who could destroy buildings with a wave of her hand. "Someday, I'm going to be a destruction instructor at the University. You mark my words."

I nodded. "You'd be wonderful at it, Delphine. And you could go shopping in the Market District whenever you wanted. I know everyone here would miss you terribly though."

The Breton smiled, then tilted her head to look at the bags under my chair. "So, what did you buy?"

"I found some trinkets that will make nice gifts and picked up a couple bottles of wine from the tent that Tamika's winery has set up. Oh, I don't think I told you, I noticed a merchant the other day that sells nothing but shoes. Well, I finally got back there this evening."

Delphine perked up as she repeated the word, "Shoes?"

Soon, my skirt was hiked up and I was parading around the dining room to show off the three pairs of silk slippers I had bought in as many colors. "What do you think?"

"Oh, they're adorable, Buffy. So much better than those disgusting animal skins that come up to your knees you so often wear." Her eyes sparkled. "Did you get a child's discount for those little feet?"

"No," I pouted. "Most of those merchants are much more clever with their septims than I, and you know that batting my eyes has never gotten me anywhere." After a sly giggle, I continued, "A couple days ago though, I saw this gorgeous black cuirass I just had to have. But by Mara, what a price tag!"

"And?" prompted Delphine with an arched eyebrow.

"Well, I must confess that I did employ one of Kud-Ei's tricks." I winked. "You know, the illusionist's discount."

"Kud-Ei's charm magic has always been too subtle for me to grasp," Delphine said, "but I must admit it seems so much more appropriate than my 'Merchants Explode' spell."

Ardaline's smiling face suddenly poked around the corner. "I'm back!" She then stepped fully into the dining room, displaying both arms full of treasures.

"Did you buy out all the merchants?" asked Delpine.

"Oh no," Ardaline replied. "I think that would take a week! Most of them have closed for the night however."

I gathered my own shopping and said, "Well, that's my cue. I wanted to see Nilawen after closing time. Have a wonderful evening, sisters."

There were indeed less people now as I made my way along the streets. Except for a few vendors selling beer, ale and mead, the shops and temporary merchant stands were closed for the night.

It seemed most of the wares that had been displayed during the day were now safely locked away in stout chests. Some of the higher end merchants had hired strong-looking armed men to guard their merchandise overnight. Less affluent vendors were hovering nearby the chests containing their own wares or, in some cases, seated on them enjoying a late meal. I noted extra city guards patrolling as well.

Approaching The Fair Deal, I stepped up onto the porch.

"A fine evening to you, Buffy."

I turned to see the smiling face of Caccian Apinia. With a bag in each hand, I gave the Imperial a brief hug. "How wonderful to see you, Caccian," I said. He was one of three Bravil guards that I called friend. "Can you hold these for me, please?"

After he accepted my treasures, I unlocked the general store's door with a spell.

"Business with your friend Nilawen tonight?" Caccian asked as he returned my bags.

"Yes," I replied, "the poor thing has just been so busy all day, I'm sure."

"Would you thank her for the sliced ham wrapped in bread that she brought out to me earlier?" After I nodded, the guard continued, "With Nordinor running official bets for the tournament, I'm sure there's a lot of gold inside Nilawen's store. Make sure you lock up as soon as you're inside. We don't want anyone breaking in." After a chuckle, he added, "Well, besides you of course."

"Thank you, I will."

As soon as I slipped inside the store, I set my shopping on a nearby table and slid the door's bolt home. Nilawen looked up from sweeping the floor, blew loose strands of hair from her face and said, "What a day!"

"Sit," I commanded as I took the broom from her and continued the task, "you look exhausted."

"The gold's been good," she said, letting herself collapse into a chair, "but honestly, I can't wait for this tournament to finish so things will slow down some."

"You should have hired some help," I said.

Nilawen freed her dark hair, gathered the strays and retied the ribbon behind her head. "I had Ursanne Loche helping me earlier today, and she'll be in again tomorrow. She's hard working, honest and has a good head for figures."

"That's a great idea, Nilawen," I replied. "You need the help during the tourney and I'm sure Ursanne appreciates the extra income."

"She's too good for that irresponsible gambling husband, Aleron," said Nilawen.

"Aleron?" Previously oblivious to my presence, Nordinor had lifted his nose from the journals, ledgers and scraps of parchment that covered the table in front of him. "Good guess, but he's not the culprit."

I looked at the shady bookmaker and said, "Aleron's horrible about gambling, but I don't believe he would betray Daenlin."

"You're right," replied Nordinor. "He was heavily betting his - or rather Ursanne's - coin purse all right, but putting it all on Daenlin. We ruled him out as a suspect in the scroll caper early on. Your friend Ardaline had me going for a moment when she placed a heavy bag of gold on my table and stated your name."

"Ardaline?" My eyes flew open wide, then narrowed in defense of my friend. "Why, she'd nev-"

"You're right again," interrupted Nordinor. "Her bet was for you to show."

"What does that mean?" I asked.

"She'll make a small profit if you finish among the top three. Not much reward, but very little risk, given your skill. We call that a lady's bet, and I'm sure her intent was just to show support for a guild mate."

"I don't understand any of that. I just know Ardaline could never be involved in anything that would harm Daenlin or I." Heaving a sigh, I said, "Nordinor, I've had a long day and I'm starting to get cranky - so stop teasing me. Do you know who has the scroll or not?"

The Bosmer nodded. "I believe Reman Broder's our man."

"Reman?" I remembered the Imperial's harsh words to Daenlin. Cosmus had also told me that Reman was one those trying to buy the scroll from Kurdan.

Nordinor continued, "I have a pretty good idea what a wine man working for the Surile Brothers makes, and old Reman was betting like he owned the whole winery."

"On who?" I asked.

The Bosmer pointed a finger. "You. Remember what I told you? We figured our culprit would likely try to use that scroll to prevent Daenlin from winning. We were looking for someone to be betting heavily on the number two finalist.

Suddenly, it made perfect sense that Reman might want to discredit Daenlin while lining his own pocket. I leaned on the broom and scratched my head. "Are you sure?"

"Well, almost." Some of the certainty left Nordinor's face. "Aradroth should be back from having a quiet chat with Reman any moment now."

I leaned the broom against a wall and planted both hands on my hips. "I told you I don't want anyone to get hurt." I recalled the instant death Aradroth had delivered to the highwayman that tried to rob me. "A silly tournament is not worth what I know Aradroth to be capable of."

Nordinor held up one hand disarmingly. "Our dark friend accepted the challenge of your conditions. He -"

Three quiet and precisely cadenced knocks interrupted the Bosmer. Being closest to the door, I unlocked and opened it. Aradroth slipped into the store, his black cloak trailing behind him. I closed and relocked the door.

"Well?" I asked as both hands found their way back to my hips.

"Nordinor was right," said Aradroth as one hand slipped the black hood back to his shoulders, "and I found Reman quite cooperative. It seems I have that effect, especially when allied with darkness and surprise. The human seemed to find my offer of life quite generous in exchange for his scroll."

I closed my eyes for a moment. Thank you, Mara. I then looked into the steel of Aradroth's gray gaze. "It seems that once again I am indebted to you. What payment do you require for the scroll?"

"Do you know any frost magic?" he asked as one eyebrow climbed his forehead to hide under the unruly mop of brown hair.

"Very little, Aradroth." A flush of embarrassment warmed me and probably displayed itself above the neckline of my dress. I was quite poor at elemental destruction magic and not at all qualified to teach Aradroth about it. "My guild mate, Delphine Jend, is a superb instructor though. I would be happy to pay for her to -"

"Can you chill a bottle of ale?" interrupted the small elf.

"Well, sure." I tilted my head, confused. "Even I can do that."

"That is my price then."

I dug a coin from my purse and placed it on Nilawen's counter. She shrugged her shoulders, opened a bottle of ale and handed it to me. After a few moments with a blue glow in my hand, I presented the cold bottle to Aradroth.

Before accepting the ale, he reached inside his cloak and produced a scroll. "I inspected it before Reman and I concluded our business. It is the one you seek." As scroll and ale changed hands, the ghost of a smile played across Aradroth's thin lips. "I told you I wouldn't forget your kindness, Buffy." He lifted the ale briefly, as if in a toast, then took a long pull.

I stared at the dangerous elf for a long moment. "Nor will I forget yours, my heroic and dark friend."

"Well," said Nordinor cheerfully as he rubbed his hands together, "now that we have that nasty business behind us, let the tourney begin! What will you do with the scroll, Buffy? I'll bet Ungarion will pay quite the sweet septim for it."

"You'd lose that bet." I stepped behind Nilawen's counter and slipped the cursed roll of parchment into her fire.

[mALX]

Whew! So after over a year passes I finally find out what happened with that accursed scroll !!! I knew our wolfy friend was the stuff heroes are made from, dark assassin or not! WOO HOO!!! Aradroth to the rescue !! And another favorite chapter added to Buffy's list of Buffiest chapters !! Great Write !!!

[ghastley]

What I'm reading here is putting a lot of pressures on our Buffy. She now knows that Aleron needs Daenlin to win, Ardaline needs her to show, and she wants Alawen to do well, too. That doesn't leave her many options for the result!

"... it seems so much more appropriate than my 'Merchants Explode' spell." is just priceless!

[haute ecole rider]

I just loved all the banter in this episode! From Delphine's 'Merchants Explode' spell (HAH!) to Caccian's remark about keeping everyone (but Buffy ) from breaking into Nilawen's overflowing shop, and Nordinor's teasing about who has that darned scroll, to Aradroth's dark flirting for a cold ale, it has been an absolutely delightful read.

And I'm with mALX - it's a relief to finally know, after a year, who bought that scroll! Its fate is so appropriate. Now no one can mess with the tourney outcome! Ooops, did I just jinx the shooting?

[SubRosa]

I was able to briefly fortify my meager gambling knowledge via some local consultation.
So you hired Danny Ocean?

I noticed a merchant the other day that sells nothing but shoes
The infamous shoe merchant strikes again! I loved the chit-chat between Buffy and the other girls about shopping. Hopefully no merchants were exploded! Not only does it reinforce her relationships within the guild, but it also shows us more of how the tournament is not simply about people shooting bows, but is an entire community event.

Lucky Caccian, I know quite a few people who would like to hold Buffy's treasures... Seriously though, her encounter with the guard again shows us more of her relationships with the people of Bravil. Not to mention that being friends with a city guardsman is helpful for breaking into stores!

And another mention of Aleron Loche, and his unfortunate wife Ursanne. Looks like someone's setting the stage for a certain Bravil quest?

"Her bet was for you to show."
Well of course Buffy is going to show up at the tournament. She would not skip it! Seriously, your consultations with Danny Ocean show in Nordinor's descriptions of the betting. Right down to a 'lady's bet'.

And the Mer in Black shows that a soft word and a knife held to someone's throat gets you more than just a soft word. Quite the gallant assassin he proves to be as well, when he asks for payment. Got to love a guy with style, and he shows it there.

Finally, Buffy ends it perfectly with how she handles the scroll.

Let the tournament begin!

[King Coin]

So it was Reman! He was my first suspect but then I wasn't sure it was him because he seemed like the obvious choice. I'm so happy that the scroll business is done with help from Aradroth. Now we just have to work out whether Buffy will be a good friend to Alawen or not.

[Grits]

"Oh, I love bread and cheese. I could fill up on it every day," I said truthfully.

I hear a Nord trying to comment, but he can’t stop laughing.

Delphine is a riot in this episode! And Buffy, with her “Illusionist’s Discount”!!

Except for a few vendors selling beer, ale and mead, the shops and temporary merchant stands were closed for the night.

Just the essentials.

"Nordinor was right," said Aradroth as one hand slipped the black hood back to his shoulders, "and I found Reman quite cooperative. It seems I have that effect, especially when allied with darkness and surprise. The human seemed to find my offer of life quite generous in exchange for his scroll."

*shiver* It seems that Aradroth’s persuasion wheel only has one wedge! But then the whole exchange of scroll for ale was charming. In a terrifying, dark assassin way.

Yay, the scroll is dead! Bring on the inner turmoil!

[Ceidwad]

Damn, I wanted to see the chaos that might be caused by the use of the scroll in the tourney! Ah well, at least the best mer will win now! (Unless Riveus wins, that is)

Aradroth certainly seems to be very generous to Buffy. Could it be that there is a soft spot lurking somewhere in that cold, dark heart which longs for a ditzy gal like her?

This post has been edited by Ceidwad: May 19 2011, 12:59 AM

[Captain Hammer]

I'll accept "Dragon in Spirit" only if it's a fully certified Dragonborn (Dovahkiin!) carrying a letter with notarized signatures of the Greybeards saying that 1) This is a Dragonborn (Dovahkiin) with all attendant powers and duties, 2) He/She has killed at least one dragon and that dragon's soul has been taken by said Dovahkiin, and 3) Said Dovahkiin utilizes at least one recognizable Dragon-Shout (Thu'um Power) to demonstrate. That way we can guarantee that a literal dragon's spirit is present, instead of the more metaphorical kind. Metaphors do not satisfy the conditions of the bet.

Now, as for the scroll. I am honestly not surprised that it would be Reman that bought the scroll with the intent to use it on Daenlin, or even to use it on Buffy. It seems like the perfect way for a spurned lover to get revenge on the rival he has blamed for decades.

Oh well, glad the scroll's been destroyed. No telling what it could have done had it not been fed to the fire by our heroic . . . wait, did Buffy read the scroll herself to make sure of what it was that she torched?

*Cap goes back to check. She did not.*
So we have Aradoth's word that the scroll has been destroyed . . .

*Cap runs off into the Bravil night.*

[Thomas Kaira]

And so ends the saga of the Scroll of Drain Archery! Good riddance!

Good shooting tomorrow, Buffy! Knock 'em dead!

[Acadian]

Buffy spent her early evening shopping then enjoying a quiet dinner at her guild with Delphine Jend in Episode 108. As it grew later, she returned to The Fair Deal as instructed by Aradroth, hoping that the evening's betting would have yielded some clues to solve the scroll mystery. Nordinor had not only identified the culprit as Reman Broder, but Aradroth had convinced the Imperial to surrender the scroll. After purchasing the troublesome parchment of drain marksman from Aradroth, Buffy destroyed it.

mALX- Buffy saw something in Aradroth upon their first meeting. It was probably Buffy's experience with Mazoga that prompted her to reach out to someone who appeared to be dangerous and without friends. Thank you for your wonderful support and encouragement!

ghastley- Buffy still doesn't understand any of that betting stuff, she just wants Daenlin to win. Thank you for highlighting our nod to Delphine with her 'Merchants Explode' spell!

Rider- I'm so glad you enjoyed the banter. Thank you for highlighting the irony of Buffy's unique niche in Bravil as the guard, Caccian, held Buffy's shopping so she could 'break into' Nilawen's shop. Gosh, that assassin works cheap for just the price of a chilled ale! Perhaps there is a heart in there.

SubRosa- You'll note that Buffy only bought three pairs of shoes, so there should be loads of selection still available for T & T (Tadrose & Teresa). Thank you for highlighting, as Rider did, how naturally Buffy 'flows' through Bravil. Oh noes, I hope Aleron doesn't get himself into trouble! Hopefully, Daenlin will win and Aleron will be ok. Thank you for the kind words for Aradroth; I have to believe that dear Winter Wolf is proud of his elf.

King Coin- Heh, I will never be a mystery writer, that's for sure! I was just hoping to have enough twists and suspects that Reman wasn't the only choice. You are exactly right that the next crisis will be Buffy's own swirling indecision on how to respond to what she perceives as conflicting loyalties.

Grits- Thank you! I'm so glad that Aradroth prompted words from you like: shiver, charming and terrifying all at the same time. It means a great deal to hear that the way Winter Wolf and I hope to portray Aradroth came through clearly. Inner turmoil? Coming right up!

Ceidwad- Buffy is so glad to have concerns about the scroll behind her! I suspect Aradroth's soft spot for Buffy is somewhat similar to Mazoga's soft spot for Buffy. That is, caused by a small elf that reached out to someone that others shun in fear. As far as romance, I doubt it. I suspect Aradroth would be too free with the phrase, "Fetch me a beer, Sheila," for Buffy's liking. Similarly, I'm sure Buffy's chatterbox nagging about Aradroth's profession would cause Aradroth to offer a prayer to the Night Mother.

Captain Hammer- Regarding the dragon bet, I'm sure you'll win! Buried within Buffy and Acadian is indeed the spirit of an ice dragon called Phantom, but she is not evil. Buffy can talk your ear off, but no dragon shouts. Thank you for noting that Buffy did not check the scroll! That was a very intentional reflection on Buffy's trust of the dangerous elf she now calls friend.

TK- I agree: Good riddance to that scroll! Thanks for the well wishes for the big day!

All- And so ends not only the scroll mystery, but Buffy's fifth day in Bravil and the final day of tournament qualifications. I am so thankful for everyone's patience as Buffy lavishes so much time and attention on this massive storyline. Continuing thanks also to the stunning talent of SubRosa as the efforts of our long collaboration on this storyline bear fruit.

Looking ahead, Buffy will need three episodes to describe the final competition, two more to share the awards ceremony with you, and seven more episodes to wind things down in Bravil before she is recalled to the University to learn if the Council of Mages will authorize any aid for Kvatch. All told, she'll spend thirty six episodes in Bravil and leave the City of Mara nine days after arriving.

* * *

109 The Tournament of Archers, Part 25- What Should I Do?

"Thank you for your beautiful thunder and speed this morning, my precious mare. We both needed it."

Dawn had been just a promise during our ride, but now the first streaks of sunshine filtered into the stables to augment the glow stones. Isabeau and Antoine used them to provide light inside the old wooden building for night or early morning grooming. As I hung up the last of Superian's tack, I said to the gelding in next stall, "Aetherius, I'm glad Carandial insisted that these stones from his Ayleid research be used instead of candles or lanterns as a condition for boarding you here. We've never had to worry about a fire in the stables."

Returning my attention to Superian, I grabbed a hoof pick and carefully inspected each of her feet. "Neither you nor Acadian care a bit about the tournament finals today, do you? Both of you are wiser than I."

After roughing Superian's coat with a curry then flicking it clean with a stiff brush, I started going over the mare with her soft body brush. "I simply want my master to win today and for him to be proud that his apprentice can shoot almost as well as he." Once she glistened like polished ebony, I set the soft brush aside and began working my fingers gently through her silky long tail, then mane. "I don't know if I can match Daenlin's skill but even if I could, I never want him to know it."

Finally, I stood in front of Superian and pressed my forehead against her long nose. I could feel both her spirit and that of Acadian so comfortably intertwined with my own. "I fear my new friend Alawen, but I fear myself more. I know I can reduce my own score if necessary, but I believe I also have the power to lower hers just as effectively as that cursed scroll of drain marksman could. My mere presence and encouragement seem to enable the ranger to overcome her fear of crowds. If I treat Alawen with coolness, I'm sure she will shoot poorly and my master will win. If I encourage her, she may beat Daenlin. Either way, I will hate myself for betraying one or the other." I felt a tear trace down one cheek. "It's almost time for the final competition and I still don't know what to do."

"Your shoulders are too small to carry the burden you place upon them," said the paladin. "I know you will support both your friends. If any one of you wins, it will be with grace and humility. The other two will rejoice in congratulations. You know my words are true."

I nodded, dragged a hand across my cheek, then flicked the bits of hay from my cream colored blouse and buckskin greaves. Lifting my dark vest from a hook, I slipped both arms into it then laced it up. After pulling my own brush through my hair a few times, I grabbed Slayer and my quiver. With a quick smooch over my shoulder to Superian, I stepped outside.

"Where's Charger's mistress?" I asked, reaching up to rub the old war horse's forehead.

"You just missed her," replied Antoine as he went about removing Alawen's tack from the white mare. "I figure she be out on the firing line getting ready for the big day. Shoot well today, young lady. I got me some septims riding on you."

"Why thank you, Antoine." I closed the gate to the corral behind me.

The reviewing stands, now trimmed with bright banners, were about half full already with a steady stream of spectators filing into them. Approaching the firing area, I could see most of the finalists were already milling about. Some were joking, while others inspected their equipment. I could see Daenlin smiling and chatting with the judges. Alawen was pacing nervously like a caged panther.

"Good morning, my ranger," I called out cheerfully.

"And to you, my scout," Alawen replied. I could see her relax as soon as our eyes met. "Shoot well today, young elf."

"You also," I said.

She nodded her head toward Daenlin. "Your master was looking for you earlier."

"I'm not surprised." I then added hesitantly, "I'd best report to him straightaway."

Alawen reached out and squeezed my hand. "Go to him. I am fine now that you are here."

I nodded.

Daenlin's face illuminated as I approached. "Well, I was beginning to worry about you."

"I spent the early morning with Superian," I replied.

"I should've known," he said gently. "You're a horse crazy elf, even on tournament day."

I gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "She's not like a carriage that one can just park and forget. You know that, Daenlin. She's my friend and I love her, just like you."

His brown eyes sparkled. If he was nervous at all about the tournament, it didn't show. "Well, I'm flattered to be in company as fine as your mare."

"Oh, you know what I mean, silly," I said with a giggle. Just being near Daenlin was like a soothing potion for my nerves.

He placed a hand on each of my shoulders and turned me to face him directly. "Are you ready to tear the tens out of your targets?"

"I just want you to be proud of me, Master."

"Then your wish is granted many fold." He then admonished with a raised eyebrow, "Just focus on your own shooting and do your best, Buffy."

Could he see into the dark turmoil swirling within my heart?

"Well, it's about time, short one." The booming voice came from Lum gro-Baroth and the target of his words was the small elf in black slinking our way.

Aradroth pinned the orc with a glance that did not invite further comment, even from the shirtless mountain of green rippling muscle.

Sinia, the line judge broke in. "Well, now that all ten finalists are here, let me say a few words before the final competition begins." Our group drew close around her as the Redguard continued, "First, each of you should feel proud to stand among the finest archers in Cyrodiil. It's quite an accomplishment. Today's competition will consist of three sessions. During each of these you will shoot one round just like the one you completed for qualification. The shooting order will be from the highest qualifier to the lowest and we will take a one hour break between the three sessions. Count Bravil will make opening comments shortly, then Daenlin will be the first shooter up for round one. Best of luck to each of you."

I noted the ranger studying the distant trees, either longing for their comfort or perhaps assessing the wind. Every few moments, she would glance my way. Although not physically clingy like I was, Alawen needed me. She drew comfort and confidence from my presence just as surely as I did from holding onto Daenlin's strong arm. I studied the ranger's face, trying to divine any family resemblance to my master. Forget about meddling, Buffy; Alawen's wishes in this matter are clear.

My thoughts were interrupted by three patches of white lace that caught my eye as they bobbed their way toward the reviewing stands. A grin came to my face as I realized the parasols were screening the morning sun from none other than Kud-Ei, Delphine Jend and Ardaline. Towering near them were both Carandial and Henantier. The raised hands of Aryarie and Ita Rienus directed them to an open area in the stands that the two mages had apparently saved for the guild. Seeing the entire branch assembled could only mean that Kud-Ei had actually closed the guild hall for the day. As the mages were seated, Delphine wasted no time applying a thin stream of flame from her fingertip to the silver tea pot that Ardaline held. Momentarily, Kud-Ei's ever present tea cup was filled and the Argonian raised it to her thin reptilian lips.

Guilt washed over me as I returned their enthusiastic waves. I had been jealous of the camaraderie and support that Parwen, Teresa, Lum and Kurz enjoyed from the Fighters Guild. I had even questioned whether my brother and sister mages cared that I was competing. I knew they were not fans of archery, so their presence meant they were here for me. How foolish I had been to doubt the love and loyalty of my own guild mates.

The brief fanfare of a trumpet drew everyone's attention toward the separate and raised reviewing area reserved for Count Bravil and his guests. Under the blue and white striped tarp that shaded the large private box, I could see perhaps a score of nobles. I recognized Countess Alessia Caro of Leyawiin and Count Bravil's spoiled son, Gellius.

Count Terentius now stood at the forward edge of the box, leaning on the handrail. To his left, Captain Viera Lerus stood impassively rigid. The Count was rarely seen without her at his side. I was sure it was for security reasons, but rumors had persisted for years that there was more to it.

At the Count's right side stood Fathis Aren, Court Mage. After Regulus Terentius nodded, Fathis presented him a brass cone that was perhaps the length of a man's arm. The object was similar to one I had seen the Arena announcer use. Owyn the Blademaster had told me it was called a speaking trumpet. As Count Bravil raised the device, it emanated a gentle glow of magic. "Welcome to my fair City of Mara, visitors and residents alike." His words echoed effortlessly across the now quiet tournament grounds. "I am proud to host this assemblage of Cyrodiil's finest archers as they. . . ."

My mind wandered as the Count droned. I could see the scoreboard had indeed been cleared and redone for today. Plaques bearing the names of the ten finalists were arranged now, with Daenlin's at the top. To the right of the plaques were rows of pegs that would eventually hold the scores for each of our three rounds as we all progressed, and ultimately our final tally for the day. To the left of each shooter's name was a single peg. A solid red plaque to indicate the current shooter was now being affixed to the peg left of Daenlin's name.

". . . and so, let the final completion now begin." Count Bravil finally stopped talking.

Giving my hand a gentle squeeze, Daenlin disengaged my arm from his and stepped off for the firing line. As the Bow of Infliction found its way from his back to his hand, the crowd filled the air with cheers and applause. My heart was bursting, and I had to blink back tears of pride as my master drew his first arrow.

[haute ecole rider]

Finally, the finals! And a wonderful runup to the start of competition.

I enjoyed everything, from Buffy's early morning conversation with her two best friends to her encounter with the finalists.

But this made me smile:

My thoughts were interrupted by three patches of white lace that caught my eye as they bobbed their way toward the reviewing stands. A grin came to my face as I realized the parasols were screening the morning sun from none other than Kud-Ei, Delphine Jend and Ardaline. Towering near them were both Carandial and Henantier. The raised hands of Aryarie and Ita Rienus directed them to an open area in the stands that the two mages had apparently saved for the guild. Seeing the entire branch assembled could only mean that Kud-Ei had actually closed the guild hall for the day. As the mages were seated, Delphine wasted no time applying a thin stream of flame from her fingertip to the silver tea pot that Ardaline held. Momentarily, Kud-Ei's ever present tea cup was filled and the Argonian raised it to her thin reptilian lips.

That last bit made me laugh out loud! I can just see the mages, surrounded by archery fans, bringing a bit of their own civilization to the tourney. It brings to mind the image of a Monty Python-style British upper-class tea party among the bleacher bums at Wrigley Field. Thanks for the delightul comic relief!

[Thomas Kaira]

And so it begins.

Really, Buffy, do not worry so much about this tourney. Just do your best and shoot your best. Daenlin will remain a proud man even if you beat him or if you finish bottom (though you may disappoint many a better, but who cares about them?)

Yes, I really want Buffy to win this one. She has deliberately hamstrung herself for the sake of her master long enough. It is time for this flower to bloom.

[SubRosa]

Dawn had been just a promise during our ride
This was a lovely piece of word-crafting.

Glad to see Carandial's stones being put to good use. Barns are such easy places to go up in flames, how very clever to put that old Ayleid magic to use in protecting this one from that possibility.

I don't know if I can match Daenlin's skill but even if I could, I never want him to know it.
I think by now we all know that she has not only matched, but surpassed Daenlin. Yet hearing Buffy's thoughts is so undeniably adorable, in how she places her godfather's happiness above that of her own.

but I believe I also have the power to lower hers just as effectively as that cursed scroll of drain marksman could
Oh noes! Buffy does have herself quite the quandary here. Hopefully she will think upon her comparison of the scroll, and just as she felt herself bound to nullify it, she will also do the right thing here for both her friends.

In support of this, you do a wonderful job of portraying Buffy's relationships with the Daenlin and Alawen at the tourney grounds. What I found especially touching was when she realized that just as she drew strength from her relationship with Daenilin, Alawen did the same from her.

"You're a horse crazy elf, even on tournament day."
Yep, that is our Buffy!

As others have noted, how nice it was to see the elegant ladies of the Mages Guild having their tea party in the stands!

So the Count and Lierus are an item? Interesting. Or perhaps she is using some form diabolical mind control over the Count, and has to be in close proximity for it to work? Lost Ayleid magic no doubt. That might also explain his fall from grace from a champion to a corrupt winesot. Perhaps like Theoden King, he is in fact a good man under it all, a helpless puppet on the strings of Saruman Lierus.

And we're off! Isn't it amazing how many episodes it took to get to this point, the culmination of the Tournament? 25 for Buffy, and it will be 20 for Teresa. She still has 3 more segments to finish before getting to this point. I think it shows just how much work we both have put into not simply the shooting, but setting the environment and developing the relationships between all of the characters involved. I can honestly say that I am extremely proud to be part of this joint endeavor. I have been writing since I was in my teens, and have never done anything like it.

This post has been edited by SubRosa: May 22 2011, 12:29 AM

[King Coin]

It begins!

Why am I not surprised Buffy spent the early morning with her horse?
I'm glad that a certain paladin advised Buffy to be supportive of both of her friends. She seems to be treating Alawen with kindness, but will that continue as the tournament winds up? I take it as a positive sign that she sought out Alawen first.

I can't wait to see how things go! Great chapter!

[Ceidwad]

Scroll or no scroll, I'm sure this will be an excitng and unpredictable tourney with many twists and turns before the end!

[mALX]

Giving my hand a gentle squeeze, Daenlin disengaged my arm from his and stepped off for the firing line. As the Bow of Infliction found its way from his back to his hand, the crowd filled the air with cheers and applause. My heart was bursting, and I had to blink back tears of pride as my master drew his first arrow.

Very touching paragraph, my fave (of course, lol) in the whole chapter !!! Another chapter that has to go into my Favorite Buffy's !!! AWESOME WRITE !!!!

[Zalphon]

Giving my hand a gentle squeeze, Daenlin disengaged my arm from his and stepped off for the firing line. As the Bow of Infliction found its way from his back to his hand, the crowd filled the air with cheers and applause. My heart was bursting, and I had to blink back tears of pride as my master drew his first arrow.

Very touching paragraph, my fave (of course, lol) in the whole chapter !!! Another chapter that has to go into my Favorite Buffy's !!! AWESOME WRITE !!!!

I'm inclined to agree, Malx.

[minque]

Reading along, trying to catch up, but it will take some time so bear with me....this is excellent enjoyable writing!

thank you Acadian!