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

[TrisRed]

Even though I would have loved to have seen Buffy win, I am thrilled that Alawen got the golden arrow!

As buffy said, its about time Alawen got recognised for her skill!

And also the fact that Daenlin beat buffy and all he showed jer was congratuations showed what a gret guy and teacher her is
Great write!

[Acadian]

During Episode 112, the ten finalists were honored at a night awards ceremony. The top three finishers were presented ceremonial arrows of bronze, silver and gold by Count Bravil. The tournament trophy was on display and we learned it would soon sail for Castle Anvil. The episode ended as the top three archers approached the firing line to entertain the crowd with displays of trick shooting.

ghastley- I suspect Daenlin was better treated by the Count in the past as long as he was still winning the Count's trophy for Bravil.

Rider- Hee! I see Regulus Terentius continues to live down to his reputation.

KC- Thank you! SubRosa and I figured the trophy was pretty valuable, so we agreed that having it sent by ship to Anvil with a FG escort was appropriate.

mALX- Thank you! I'm so glad the Count unintentionally provided some of the entertainment for the ceremony!

Zalphon- Why thank you. Buffy is humbled by your congratulations to her.

Grits- Thank you. Buffy was just so darned focused on her drama with Daenlin and Alawen, and what was in front of her own bow during the actual competition. Therefore, I really wanted to include at least a brief run down and some mentions of the other competitors here.

hazmick- It's so wonderful to have you back and I thank you for your kind insights!

Ceidwad- I agree. Several of the nobles in Cyrodiil are really interesting. Some are likeable, even admirable, while others of course are far from either. Buffy may be a knight, and welcome in the Court of Leyawiin, but if she can avoid Castle Bravil, she's a happy elf.

Rihanae- Thank you so much. Alawen is truly a deserving champion, Buffy did her master proud and Daenlin is happy with the results. What else could an elven bowgirl want?

* * *

113 The Tournament of Archers, Part 28- These Elves Can Shoot!

Once Daenlin, Alawen and I reached the firing line, we prepared for our demonstrations. Props and targets were quickly set up and arranged as we had previously detailed to the target handlers.

Daenlin was first up with his traditional trick shot. An apple was suspended from a wooden frame and set in swinging motion. The old Bosmer's arrow pierced the fruit in mid swing, causing it to burst apart. Applause filled the night air.

As the crowd quieted, I stepped up the firing line to face a long range target. Drawing two arrows, I handed them to the young target handler who stood at my right side. He dipped the points of both into a small iron urn at his feet. The arrowheads emerged covered by a very thick dark liquid. He then passed one over a nearby torch and fire leaped to its tip. As I nocked the flaming arrow and aimed, he similarly lit the second one and held it ready.

Satisfied with windage and knowing the range, I elevated the brightly burning tip of the arrow and loosed it into the night sky. I quickly nocked the second and aimed with normal trajectory. When my silent count reached a predetermined point, I fully drew and released the bowstring. Both arrows struck the target almost simultaneously, bursting it aflame. Although I welcomed the cheers, it was the look of pride on my master's face that once again swelled my heart. I stepped back, yielding the firing line to Alawen.

Three targets were placed at medium range with several paces laterally separating them. The ranger stepped up to the firing line in front of the left target and stood with her bow lowered.

Suddenly, one hand snaked into her quiver. Even as her arrow blossomed from the first target, Alawen dove into a right shoulder roll. Her bow never touched the ground, and a moment later she was on her feet loosing an arrow into the center target. After another shoulder roll to the right, she quickly sunk a third arrow into her final straw victim.

Alawen's entire demonstration took mere seconds, but the towering torches that illuminated the target line revealed three bull's eyes. After a moment of stunned silence, the crowd erupted in cheers, howls and applause for the Champion Archer of Cyrodiil.

As the noise began to subside, I heard the senior judge's voice as it magically carried through the air. "So concludes this year's Tournament of Archers. The judging panel wishes to thank all ten of our superb finalists for their inspired performance. Thank you as well to the fair city of Bravil for hosting this wonderful event. The next location in queue for the tournament is Kvatch but, as you know, that city tragically remains under fiery siege. We therefore hope you will make plans to join us after fall harvest in the city of Cheydinhal for next year's Tournament of Archers. The night is young and I hope you will linger for a long evening of music, dance and merriment."

A final round of applause gradually yielded to the sounds of music, countless conversations and the shouts of merchants anticipating plenty of business.

Daenlin, Alawen and I heartily congratulated each other.

"Will you be staying long in Bravil, Champion?" asked Daenlin.

Alawen stared blankly. After a moment she seemed to realize the title referred to her. "No, Master Daenlin. I will return to Bawnwatch Camp now, then leave for Anvil before dawn."

I asked, "Do you have enough of that hair conditioner I gave you to get home?"

"I think so," she replied.

"I've lived long enough to understand a little about women," said Daenlin with a smile. He then ran a hand over his balding head. "The hair talk clearly means you ladies have things to discuss that don't involve me. Alawen, safe journey to you and, again, congratulations on your well-deserved title. Buffy, I'll be talking with the judges. Find me after you two say your goodbyes." The elf then gently tapped me on the nose with a finger, smiled at Alawen and stepped off to where the judges were now hoisting their cups.

"Would you like me to walk with you to the stable?" I asked.

The ranger smiled and shook her head. "Your place is here, young elf. I hope you will visit me should your travels bring you to the Gold Coast though."

"You can count on it," I replied. My hand slipped into a pouch at my waist and drew out a small package. "I saw this in one of the merchant tents and wanted you to have it."

Alawen unwrapped the parcel to reveal a delicate neck chain from which was suspended the small figure of a golden lion. She stared at me with moist eyes.

"You carry the mark of a lion," I said. "That means something special."

Alawen handed me the necklace and turned around. I reached up and fastened it around the taller mer's neck.

She turned to face me again. "I'm afraid I didn't get you anything."

"Yes you did," I replied, blinking back tears. "More than you know."

"We will both cry if we do not stop this." Alawen then pulled me into her arms. "I will miss you."

Her cuirass smelled comfortably of saddle soap as she held me. I could feel a gentle hand stroking my hair and knew that Alawen was thinking of her mother, Diana. She could hold me as long as she needed to.

After a long time, the ranger's embrace loosened. Her fingers finally trailed through my hair for the last time as she took a small step back. A moment later she spoke, "Thank you for your kindness and understanding, my friend. Sweet waters and green paths to you."

"Golden grasses and Abecean sunsets to you, my champion," I replied.

I watched the ranger as she headed for the stable, hoping that I would someday see her again.

As I turned to look for Daenlin, the tourney grounds remained brilliantly lit by the giant torches, augmented now by dozens of bonfires. I remembered the judge's words that Kvatch would be unable to host the tournament next year. My eyes followed the flames and sparks up into the night. Could Savlian could see the same stars as I? No, I decided. His sky was marred by endless streaks of lightning and fast moving dark clouds. "Hold your line, brave man. I'll get the help you need to end that siege and I'll be there just as soon as I can. I promise."

Shortly, I found Daenlin talking with the judges. The Imperial in charge said, "Congratulations on your silver arrow, young lady. Would you consider an informal shooting demonstration encore for my judges?"

"Me? I expect my master could provide a better performance than I."

Daenlin smiled but shook his head. "Unfurl those wings, my butterfly. It's you they want to see, and for good reason."

Sinia warmly nodded her agreement and prompted, "Tell us what equipment you need."

After studying the encouraging faces around me, I said, "I would like a single target at close range, a table and a small wooden stool." As the props were being arranged, I removed my boots and vest.

One minute video clip of Buffy's finale.

* * *

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. The video clip was brought to my attention almost two years ago by Mrs Acadian. I was completely enthralled by it. So much so, that it spawned the inspiration for our tournament storyline.

2. We'll take a short break now. I leave in a few days for a periodic pilgrimage to visit Acadian Sr as he emerges from his ninetieth winter. The Tournament of Archers storyline began when Buffy arrived in Bravil to await word of assistance for Kvatch from the Council of Mages, and it will end when Buffy is recalled to the University. There are seven episodes remaining in the storyline. I could certainly post another before I leave, but right after the awards ceremony here is a convenient point to pause. So, I will be here for several days, then gone to a land of no computers for a week. I'll then return, catch up on things here for a day or so, and post our next episode on 17 June.

[hazmick]

What a brilliant finale to the tourney! A teary goodbye to our ranger friend and further thoughts of a certain guard captain The announcer's reminder of Kvatch really opened up Bravil as part of Tamriel with day to day life carrying on even with such a crisis underway.

I loved the three archer's displays, Alawen proving just why she is the champion with the other two Bosmer bowpersons showing just how darn good they are. Good sportsmanship all round. The video at the end was brilliant! It's not hard to imagine Buffy doing that...minus The Hoff (I don't think he'd fit in, in Bravil)


I hope you have a great week visiting Pappa Acadian

[haute ecole rider]

I think I had as much fun watching the Hoff's reaction as I did watching the girl shoot. Doesn't she perform for Cirque Soleil?

Lovely farewell scene between Alanwen and Buffy. And dearest Daenlin for taking the hair talk as a signal to diplomatically depart with his usual endearing style. The necklace is an appropriate gift for the lion girl.

Have a good trip with Papa Paladin. I hope the two of you have a great time swapping stories and just being together. May good weather smile upon you both. May the wind be at your backs. And though we've never met, please give my regards to your Dad, for he's certainly earned it with his service to our country.

[Grits]

You have my warmest wishes for a comfortable journey and a visit that exceeds your expectations.

Even more than the exciting displays of skills or the sweet exchanges between elven friends, I am touched here by how Buffy is so powerfully drawn to Kvatch. Despite her occasionally, um, short attention span and whimsy, her heart remains constant. I am reminded that though her steps may take her in different directions, each one makes her stronger and brings her in some way closer to Savlian.

[King Coin]

Buffy's two arrows on one target takes the cake in my opinion. Alawen is the quick shooting champion!

The goodbyes were so sweet, and Buffy even brought a gift. Good thing they go the Very Important issue of the conditioner settled before hand. I would love to see Alawen in Buffy's journal again!

[Zalphon]

Two arrows that ignite their target... Note to self, don't make the archer mad...

[RainbowVeins]

This whole chapter sang to me, especially the Bosmeri she-archers' tearful goodbye. But this,

"Golden grasses and Abecean sunsets to you, my champion," I replied.

this was simply beautiful. Be safe and enjoy your trip

[mALX]

You finally got to post the vid that inspired the Tourney for all of us to enjoy !!! WOO HOO Buffy !!! Awesome Write, Acadian !!! Just AWESOME !!!!

Be safe on your trip, and talk to your father of Superian !! <333

[Lady Syl]

Okay, this is going to be one ginormous review (omg, I didn't know ginormous was a real word, but it's not underlined with the spelling-error line! lol).

Chapters 8-10

Ch. 8--Water Makes Her Clothes Fall Off So, I guess she has to be really careful not to be out in the rain!
Great title! I love it.

Buffy has such a loveable and yet frightening personality! I love that! She may be small, and she can be tremendously sweet--but cross her and you're in for a big surprise. Earana was lucky perhaps, that Buffy had enough self-control to let it go "for now." Perhaps one of these days, that nasty Altmer will get her comeuppance if she runs across someone with less self-control than Buffy. I'm glad Buffy didn't give her the book.

Magic can be quite disconcerting for horses...--I am glad you made this point, because it makes sense, and it's not something I ever really considered until you said it.

I like the way you portrayed Jauffre in Buffy's perspective--he doesn't seem as likeable, and that is good because it sets Buffy's encounter with him apart from most of the others. I always liked him, but I like having the change of perspective with Buffy.

When Jauffre told her she must find Martin, her reaction was priceless, and I'm finding it to be classically Buffy. She got defensive right from the start, and when she says, "You're not the boss of me!" I chuckled to myself--it sounds like something a child would say to a sibling, and it's so very fitting with the young, tiny wood elf who isn't used to this kind of thing!

*****

Ch. 9--Ride Fast and Shoot Straight

In this chapter, I'm seeing some changes in Buffy's perspective that show growth and learning. When she admits to herself that the guard who arrested her was just doing his job, I smiled to myself. It can be hard to admit when you have been in the wrong, but doing so shows intelligence and humility. I am glad to see this.

My most precious possession was between my legs after all. And of course, it was Superian! Good job throwing us readers for a loop there! She really loves that horse, and it's sweet.

And so, Buffy watched the highway man die slowly and painfully. One of those cases where you see the darker side of the sweet little wood elf--be kind to her and her own, and she'll be your friend for life. Cross her and you just dug your own grave!

******

Ch. 10--You Don't Look Like a Mage

First off, I loved the detailed descriptions you gave of the goblins at Derelict Mine. It was done very well and made the image of them much easier to conjure up in my mind, and also made them seem more real.

motley crew FTW!

Goblin blood was red like mine. I wasn't sure why that surprised me.--It's human nature to view something like a goblin as being alien, so to find a similarity in something so vital as blood, would be a somewhat shocking revelation. Maybe humans/elves and goblins aren't all that different after all...?

Something that really stood out in this chapter was the scene with Sinderion. The way Buffy views him is excellent, and he becomes even more likeable than he is in game. I especially loved the way you introduced the Nirnroot quest! It was original and creative, and I give you kudos for coming up with such a great way to open that quest!

When Buffy learned how to use the Call of Corsair, that was very interesting. I like the way Superian reacted to being suddenly transported to a different location! It's very fitting for a horse.

All of it was excellent!

This post has been edited by Lady Syl: Jun 5 2011, 04:10 PM

[SubRosa]

As the others have said, your portrayal of the besotted Count really brought episode 112 to life. Daenlin's not to subtle dig at his tournament prowess. All the more delightful by how it soared clear above His Drunkenness' head.

Episode 113 is of course bittersweet, as all endings are and we see new friends go their separate ways. A parting all the more emotional for Buffy with the secret that she carries of Alawen's parentage. Hopefully we will indeed see the shy ranger from the Gold Coast again some day. At the next tournament at least!

And now, I see Buffy's thoughts turning to Kvatch. Ever since the beginning of this tale, we have seen her destiny brewing there. I have the feeling it is finally about to reach its boiling point.

[Khajiit_Thief01]

WHEW! Finally caught up after starting all the way back in Thread 1.

This story has been an absolute joy to read! I love the character of Buffy--she has matured greatly over the course of the story, yet there is still much she must learn about both the world, and herself. I also love how every "storyline" seems to impart a different lesson on Buffy--during this one, for example, she learned several, including upholding personal integrity, staying true to oneself, and humility. Oh, and how to deal with the unwanted advances of sleazy men at bars.

The character of Acadian is also very intriguing--given his advanced age and experience, one might expect him to "guide the story" moreso than the title character, yet I am pleased that he conciously makes the decision to let our Bowgirl make her own choices--even if they could potentially take her down a darker path, as they almost did in the Dark Brotherhood storyline. Giving Acadian an actual voice presented another attempt at developing the character, and I was pleased at how masterfully you wrote it.

Finally, your descriptions of archery in the world of TES are a thrill to read. I was never one to play archers in my games (I usually stuck to the more close-combat characters), but your vivid descriptions of the art of the bow have certainly been a pleasure to read.

I am definitely looking forward to reading more of Buffy's adventures, and I can't wait for the next part! Great job on the story, and on your skills as a writer!

This post has been edited by Khajiit_Thief01: Jun 17 2011, 05:10 AM

[Acadian]

In Episode 113, the top three tournament finishers each provided a brief display of trick shooting. The senior judge then announced the end of the formal ceremonies and invited the crowd to remain for a long evening of celebration. He also explained that although Kvatch was next in queue, that city's fiery siege rendered hosting the tournament impossible. He announced Cheydinhal as the next tournament site. After a tearful goodbye to Alawen, Buffy joined Daenlin for the festivities.

All- My pilgrimage to visit Acadian Sr. went well and I thank everyone for the kind wishes. Although we spent some time discussing the inevitable future and his wishes, there was time to talk about past loves that went by such names as Phantom, Corsair and Superian.

hazmick- Thank you for your wonderful summary that honed right in on everything I hoped you would!

Rider- I have been chomping at the bit for so very long to post that video of 'Buffy's finale'! Thank you for the kind words regarding Alawen and Daenlin.

Grits- Given how wonderfully rich your own characters are, I am humbled that you were touched by the farewell between Buffy and Alawen. It felt good to tie the farewell back to the time Alawen and Buffy spent doing each others hair and learning much about each other. I thank you so much for your endorsement of how we have tried to portray Buffy's bigger objective and the fiery city in which she hopes to find it.

KC- We thank you so much for liking Buffy's demo the best of the three! Like you, Buffy would love to see Alawen again. I expect she will, but not in this current book.

Zalphon- Thank you for enjoying Buffy's two arrow trick, flame enhanced this time.

RainbowVeins - I'm so glad you enjoyed the tearful goodbye between Buffy and Alawen. Their final wishes for each other were indeed very traditionally elven and I'm delighted you found the words beautiful.

mALX- Thank you! I know you have seen that video clip before and I'm so glad you enjoyed it and how it fit into the story. Acadian Sr did clarify a couple points on the real Superian for me. She was a large thoroughbred who competed as a hunter/jumper and was the granddaughter of Gallant Fox. I had been unsure how far removed from Gallant Fox her lineage was. She was tolerant of strangers, but in typical thoroughbred fashion, high strung, full of energy and very much the one man horse of my grandfather.

Lady Syl- My goodness. What a beautiful and nostalgic review of some of Buffy's older episodes. You so thoughtfully drew out so very much of what I hoped you would. I think you can see why I like Syl so much with her dark and light sides, for Buffy shares some of that with her. They both approach things from a perspective of physical vulnerability due in part to their small stature. Buffy's vengeance and cruelty toward her foes is, oddly enough, brought forth by either a very defensive and nurturing response to a threat against those she holds dear or a highly developed sense of self-preservation when she is in danger herself. Buffy is fascinated by goblins, so I'm glad you enjoyed our lingering on their description and behavior some.

SubRosa- Thank you for enjoying how we portrayed the Count and for your very consistent references to him via Teresa's eyes during the tourney. Buffy and I both quite adore Alawen and join you in hoping to see her again in the future. And thank you for drawing out the significance of Kvatch. Buffy will linger in Bravil for a few days now until she is recalled to the University (in about eight episodes). Once that happens, her focus on Kvatch will become rather obsessive and she will be loathe to tolerate any further delays.

Khajiit_Thief01- What a joy to have you caught up! I thank you for those kind words and perceptions regarding Buffy and Acadian.

* * *

114 The Tournament of Archers, Part 30- Button and the Bear

Once Antoine and I eased Superian's saddle onto her pad, he began adjusting the girth while I fitted her bridle. I asked, "How much did you lose by betting on me to win the tourney?"

"A month's pay," he replied then quickly added, "but I'd bet on Superian's elf again if the tournament was tomorrow."

I paused and smiled, "That's sweet of you, Antoine. And just exactly how much does Isabeau pay you each month?"

After he told me, I dug into my coin purse and counted out the amount of his modest monthly wage. "Here, I have some extra gold from a recent treasure hunt along the Panther River."

The Breton's face flushed with more color than its normal ruddy tone. "You don't have to-"

"Yes I do," I interrupted, pressing the coins into his hand. Closing the subject, I added, "It looks like a nice morning for a ride."

Antoine pocketed the gold. "Sure does. Even better with all them noisy merchants and crowds gone. The horses are happier too with the tournament over. Is Superian staying in Bravil much longer?"

"Oh, I expect we'll leave within a few days." As I led my saddled mare to the corral gate, she was bouncing her head and starting to prance with energy. "I'm just waiting to be called back on business to the Arcane University. I'll miss being home, but I know Superian will be happy to be on the road."

"Speaking of roads," a concerned look clouded the stable hand's features, "watch out for trolls during your ride."

"Trolls?" I paused, my hand on the gate.

"Aye," said Antoine, "Olava, from the chapel, brought a basket of carrots out here for Button early this morning." He smooched at the nearby draft horse, who flicked an ear in response then lowered her massive head to drink from a trough. "Anyway, Mara's living saint told me quite the story."

I briefly studied Button, who had long been a fixture at the stable. I figured the Shire was nearly twice the weight of Superian and, if properly harnessed, could probably bring down a building as easily as she pulled tree stumps from the ground to help clear fields. She belonged to the chapel and ably pulled their wagon, regardless of load. Her cargo ranged from priestesses and chapel supplies, to bringing in massive portions of the fall harvest for farmers who could not afford their own horse and wagon.

Despite Button's great size and power, she was remarkably gentle. My own mare was wise enough not to tease her, so they got on well. Button was a darker bay color than Carandial's gelding, Aetherius. White feathering draped her sturdy lower legs and fanned out over the mare's massive hooves. She also sported a white blaze that ran down her forehead. I returned my attention to Antoine. "Tell me the story."

"Happened a couple weeks ago but, as busy as things have been with the tournament, Olava just told me about it. I was off that day, so Isabeau hitched up Button. Then Olava took the wagon and went out on behalf of Mara to bless the crops with her red wine of life. Well, you know how important fall harvest is, so an escort was contracted to watch over Olava and Button. The Fighters Guild assigned that same red headed elf who, just yesterday, did so well in the tournament."

"Teresa's her name," I said, "and she surely is a fine archer." Despite the insistent nudges against my shoulder from the impatient nose of Superian, I said to Antoine, "Go on."

"Well, on their way back from the fields, the red head - I mean Teresa - commanded Olava to stop the wagon. Olava thought the elf was worrying needlessly, but did as she was told. Teresa jumped out on foot to scout ahead while Olava and Button slowly followed behind. The wood elf must have known something wasn't right 'cuz, sure enough, they soon came upon a wounded grizzly along the Green Road. Hard to imagine anything more dangerous than that."

My eyes were open pretty wide by now as my head bobbed in agreement. "What happened next?"

"Olava said that Teresa caused some kind of green aura to swirl around the bear, which calmed it right down. Then the elf poured potions over the beast's wounds to sooth them. She even cast a healing spell on the animal. Finally, Teresa and the bear went into the forest together. After she came back from the woods, Teresa told Olava the bear had been wounded defending her cubs from trolls. Mama grizz apparently killed all three trolls, but lost both cubs and got herself pretty beat up - that is until Teresa healed her. Sounds unbelievable, don't it?"

"Well," I replied, "Olava speaks for Mara; if she said it, then it is the truth. I've seen Teresa shoot. She could have killed that bear, allowing Olava and Button to safely pass. Instead, she risked herself to heal a mother and noble creature of the forest. I think Mara would approve. Although I expect Teresa would deny it, she's a hero."

"Yup. That's what Olava says. I bet folks'll be talking about the tale of Teresa and the bear for a long time. Why, it wouldn't surprise me if some bard set it to song and it became a legend 'round these parts. Well, like I said, you and your mare watch out for trolls."

"We will, Antoine." I mounted Superian, who snorted her approval that we were finally ready to ride.

Relying on my rings to warn us of trolls and bears, we rode south. It was a beautiful, crisp autumn morning and the road was quiet.

Daenlin had taught me to respect the forest, taking no more than I needed. Teresa's actions therefore made perfect sense to me. Even though I tried to give bears a wide berth, regrettably, they often attacked Superian and I on sight. I could calm or even control creatures with illusion, but I knew Teresa wasn't a mage. Some Bosmer could peacefully pass among forest predators without magic. I envied Teresa. As a half breed, I had been blessed with a Bosmer's love of bow and a Breton's aptitude for magic. Alas though, I had no Bosmeri special powers with animals like Teresa apparently did.

Once back from our ride, Antoine helped me remove Superian's tack and groom her.

Leaving the stable, I paused to note progress as the tourney grounds were being transformed. The merchants were gone, and a score of men were laboring to dismantle the wooden reviewing stands and other structures. Soon, the trampled grass would rise to reclaim the area and leave no trace of the busy past week.

Inside the town, most of the visitors were gone as well. Notably though, many of the beggars from other cities remained. They had joined Cosmus and Aia in busily filling burlap bags with litter. Although they might find the occasional item on the ground worth salvaging, their primary motivation was a single coin paid for each full bag of trash. In this manner, the streets were quickly becoming free of leftover tournament debris. Given the effectiveness of this policy, I ascribed it to the castle's steward, Dro'Nahrahe. The Khajiit seemed to be the only member of Bravil's court that cared about the town's condition. I didn't know her well, for when I did occasionally see her outside the castle she was always too busy to talk.

As I crossed the wooden bridge to the southern portion of Bravil, my gaze swept down to the river bisecting the city. Most of the vessels that been docked during the tournament were now gone. I turned left onto the boardwalk and, shortly after passing The Archer's Paradox, my small home welcomed me.

After stoking the fireplace, I exchanged my buckskins for a comfortable dressing gown of blue silk. Singing quietly to myself and Acadian, I prepared a cup of bergamot tea. On my table was a full inkpot, several new quills and my journal. "I'm looking forward to a nice quiet day of writing, my paladin." No sooner had I settled into my chair, than the sound of a hand knocking on wood brought me back to my feet.

I padded to the door and opened it. "Antoine? Is Superian all right?"

The Breton quickly replied, "Aye, she's fine. Right after you left the stable, one of them courier riders stopped and left this for you." He held out a letter. "After I delivered the town's copies of the Black Horse Courier and all the mail to Nilawen, I figured I'd bring this right to you."

I reached into a small bowl on my entry table, then pressed a coin into Antoine's hand as I took the letter. "Thank you. Would you like a cup of tea?"

"No thanks, Buffy. I need to be getting back to the stable."

Once alone and reseated at my table, I looked at the masculine quill strokes that spelled out my name on the front of the letter. Turning the tri-folded parchment over, I recognized the imprint on the wax seal as that used by officers of the Imperial Legion.

[mALX]

GAAAAAH !!! Is it a letter from ... Matias? WOO HOO !!! Buffy was at her Buffiest in this chapter - first her preoccupation with the horses when Antoine started telling his tale - till it got interesting, then he had her full attention, lol. And paying a friend that takes good care of her horse back for the bet - knowing it was her fault that he lost it - VERY Buffy !!! Loved this chapter !!! Great Write !!!

[haute ecole rider]

mALX in her usual hyperactive exuberance pointed out pretty much everything I liked about the chapter. I especially liked the way Buffy lingered in her description of Button. Such an odd name for a massive Shire, but it suits the big girl. And how nice to hear of the legend of Teresa of the Faint Smile and the Bear from another POV!

[hazmick]

I am loving Buffy's views on Teresa's activities. It really works! I am also loving Antoine, he's one cool dude. I must have spoken to him hundreds of times with Haa-Rei yet you have built him into a real character who I would trust to look after my horse...if I had one. You have continued to show your readers the Bravil that Buffy sees, which is completely different yet completely the same as we all know it. Hoorah!

It's also good to hear that your trip went well, it's always good to take time off. Especially to see family.

[Khajiit_Thief01]

Another great chapter, Acadian! Well done!

[/i]Inside the town, most of the visitors were gone as well. Notably though, many of the beggars from other cities remained. They had joined Cosmus and Aia in busily filling burlap bags with litter. Although they might find the occasional item on the ground worth salvaging, their primary motivation was a single coin paid for each full bag of trash.[/i]

I particularly loved the bit above. That description really adds life to the scene and really helps to immerse the reader in the environment, as these things happen in real life (homeless collecting trash in the hopes of salvaging it for coins, a city employing volunteers to help clean up after a festival, etc.).

Buffy's musings on Teresa's powers to calm animals was also quite enjoyable to read. Buffy is no doubt growing to accept the things she has been given in life, yet there are still some things she wish we had that she does not. I believe everybody has that feeling once in awhile: "What I would give to sing/dance/fight/speak/etc. like THAT person!" Buffy is a believeable and endearing character because of these things.


Finally, you HAD to end it there, didn't you? Right before the letter!

[TrisRed]

I love this chapter! Welcome back!

I love how highly Buffy speaks of Teresa; I can understand Buffy's understanding of Teresa's need to heal the bear.

A mysterious letter? You've got to love a good ol' mystery letter! I suspect it is from Matius... at least i hope it is

[Grits]

How sweet that Buffy reimbursed Antoine. Her heart is as big as the Niben Bay! I love how Antoine asks if Superian is planning any road trips.

What fun to hear the legend of Teresa and the Bear! Buffy confirms the important part; Teresa put herself at risk for a creature that most others would have filled with arrows. An interesting reminder of Buffy’s natural abilities, too. Her beautiful rapport with Superian is non-magical!

After stoking the fireplace, I exchanged my buckskins for a comfortable dressing gown of blue silk. Singing quietly to myself and Acadian, I prepared a cup of bergamot tea. On my table was a full inkpot, several new quills and my journal.

How this passage sings to me! Three little sentences evoke the most warm and comfortable feeling. Until…

"I'm looking forward to a nice quiet day of writing, my paladin."

Noooo! Statements like that always precede an interruption! But the mysterious letter is far more auspicious than, say, a phone call from school. Now, hmmm… Lucilius is a sergeant… A letter from Savlian?!

[SubRosa]

How nice and quit the city is now that all those outside have gone! Phew, and none too soon. It sure is good to sit back and relax in the country once more, without all that hustle and bustle.

Buffy was very generous to cover Antoine's losses. It shows that money is not all that important to her. So long as she has enough to see to her needs (and to shopping ), the rest of it does not really matter to her. Plus a clever bit of dodging on the exact amount it was that Antoine lost, or what he is paid. That is always a pain, especially since the game does not help at all, the way its prices for things are all over the place.

And such a lovely retelling of the story of Button and the Bear. The real strength of the tale however, was not in the information itself, but rather in how you used it for further reflection on the part of Buffy in regards to her dual race parentage.

Olava speaks for Mara; if she said it, then it is the truth.
This also show us where Buffy's religious inclinations lie, all without telling us.

The beggars cleaning up the trash was a good acknowledgment of the logistics of such an undertaking as the Tournament. Attributing it to the Castle Steward was a delicious, again reinforcing what a wastrel the His Pompousness is.

And finally we close with a mysterious letter from the Imperial Legion. I hope Buffy has not been drafted!

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Jun 18 2011, 08:46 PM