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

[Ceidwad]

I can only echo what others have said. You have left us on a real cliffhanger with the letter from the Legion - what will it say? Look forward to the update.

[King Coin]

Yay! Buffy's back

This chapter was great for easing everyone back in, you chose the perfect stopping and beginning points.

I remember Aravi traveling some time with Dro'Nahrahe on the Green Road. I'm glad she was featured in your story.

A message from the Legion? I can't wait to find out what it says!

[bobg]

Your skill at making Buffy's world real seems to grow continually; little details that bear a mundane charm. Time spent around horses is time well spent.

Reading the legendary exploit of Terresa brought back poignant memories of Angel's childhood. She was given to random acts of kindness toward wilderness creatures and bandits.

[Acadian]

During Episode 114, Buffy heard a wonderful story of bravery and compassion involving one of the top ranked archers from the tournament (Teresa) and a mother grizzly bear. After a morning ride, Buffy made her way through the post-tournament Bravil to her home and settled in for what she hoped would be a quiet day of writing. She was interrupted by the delivery of a letter.

mALX- Thank you for noting Buffy's split focus between Antoine and the horses. They are hard for her to ignore. She knew the only reason Antoine bet on her was out of friendship and loyalty to Superian's elf and felt obliged to return that loyalty.

Rider- I'm so glad this episode worked for you. I fell completely in love with Button during Teresa's rendition of the bear story. SubRosa has graciously allowed Button to become a permanent fixture in the Bravil stable in BF! *twirl* She joins the other permanent resident, Aetherius (Carandial's bay gelding) that we have mentioned several times.

hazmick- Thank you for those kind words! SubRosa and I knew early on that Buffy would hear the tale of Teresa and the Bear. I wrestled with when and how in the storyline to present it. We toyed with Buffy hearing it from the beggars or from the Priestesses of Mara. Finally, it struck me that the most natural and fitting way for Buffy the horse crazy elf to hear about it was from the stable with an emphasis on Button's role. I also waited until after the actual shooting because I wanted to lavish an entire episode to this wonderful tale of Teresa's bravery and compassion.

Khajiit_Thief01- I'm so glad that Buffy's simple observations helped 'paint' the picture of Bravil being returned to its normal sleepy self. Thank you also for pointing out Buffy's quickness to envy those who can do what she cannot.

Rihanae- Thank you! Despite their sometimes quick tempers and impetuousness, it seems both Buffy and Teresa feel a bit of a nurturing calling when it comes to healing. I think that is one of the reasons Buffy so well understood and endorsed Teresa's actions on behalf of mama grizz.

Grits- Thank you for drawing out that Antoine tends, quite naturally, to see things in horse terms - Betting on Superian's elf. How long will Superian be staying? I'm glad you enjoyed Button and the Bear. It was hopefully a wonderful tribute to Teresa and gave us the opportunity to review how Buffy's heritage and genes help shape who she is. I'm so glad the passage where Buffy tried to settle down to writing in her dressing gown sang to you - that means a great deal considering your own stunning ability to smith words with magical impact.

SubRosa- Yes, so nice to see our town slow down! As is so often the case, you drew attention to all I hoped you would: The town returning to normal (thanks for your kind words about the trash pickup details), Buffy's attitude toward money, her clear display that Mara speaks to her heart, and the impact of her being a half breed. For exactly the reasons you mention, I generally avoid specific money amounts unless they are necessary to support the context (such as when Buffy haggled down Olaf's price for her black cuirass).

And so, my magnificent partner, except for the permanent reminder of Button our stories now proceed along differing paths. Much richer I think for the wonderfully gentle intertwining we have been able to include in our renditions of the tournament. Buffy will linger in Bravil for several more days before ending the storyline when she is recalled to the University. Bravo to you, and please accept my thanks along with a bottle of Tamika's.

Ceidwad- Thank you! We'll open this next episode with that letter.

KC- I'm so glad you found this episode fit in well. Happily, I was able to fully present the shooting and awards ceremony before my trip. Oh yes, I recall now that for a time Aravi traveled with Dro'Naharhe as a companion. I'm so glad we got to mention her here!

bobg- Thank you. I remember dear Angel once helping a bandit to patrol outside an Oblvion Gate all night. I also recall her staying the weapons of others while she harmlessly frightened a hostile forest creature to its own safety. Yes, I believe Teresa's actions were quite 'Angelic'.

* * *

115 The Tournament of Archers, Part 31- I Hope You Dance

Dear Buffy,

Your letter was most welcome and I thank you for it. I carry it with me, and fear I shall wear it out. Lucilius Marcus arrived safely and briefed me on your efforts in Leyawiin. Given the hazards of earning your knighthood, I'm thankful no harm came to you even as I congratulate you on the achievement. Lucilius, with his passion for Kvatch and experience, is a blessing here. He is a fine second in command and his presence allows me now the occasional free moment.

We have suffered several injuries, but nothing that Sigrid, with her potions, could not heal. Our numbers have grown slightly, allowing for improved rotational shift relief. We are holding our own. Still, there is no help from the Legion beyond the three fine soldiers they provided shortly after you last left Kvatch. I privately must confess disappointment in my own senior leaders.

I am heartened however, by the efforts you are taking on our behalf. I hope Captain Draconis is able to effect aid from the other cities via her letters touting the example of her own Count Leyawiin. I hope also, that your efforts for some magical assistance from the Arcane University are successful.

Whatever you can learn about this damn gate will be welcome news. As you know, I can ill afford another failed attempt to close it. Even more welcome however, will be your return. I am quite touched to know how much you believe in us and the job we are trying to do up here. Rereading your letter and thoughts of your beautiful smile help brighten the long days. I miss you.

Humbly, Savlian

After rearranging the writing supplies on my table several times looking for the right words, I stared at a blank piece of parchment with quill in hand. "Acadian. . . you know about being a man, right?"

"I used to," the paladin replied, "before I started traveling with you." I felt, rather than heard, his light chuckle as it comfortably reverberated through me.

"I know it's been a long time since I was in Kvatch, but doesn't it sound like Savlian likes me? I mean. . . as in more than just someone to help him with that gate?"

"Buffy, for one so bright, sometimes you are not the sharpest arrow in the quiver." His words were not biting; rather they were like a gentle caress. "When you are hungry or in pain, I feel that. So it is when you are tired or happy. I am the reason you are an empathic healer, and much of the pain you accept when you heal is shared by me. In fact, I feel every physical response you have. I felt your reaction when Savlian cupped your cheek in his hand. Do you not remember that? Did you not see the look in his eyes? If you were to read his letter to Superian, even she could tell you the man cares deeply about you. Why do you not see that?"

I put my elbows on the table, plopped my chin into my hands and stared at the flames in my fireplace. "I surely do remember when he pressed his hand against my face," I said dreamily. "I know I just melted, my toes curled and my eyes closed. So I guess I didn't see his eyes, but you did? Oh Acadian, I hope you're right. I know how dedicated he is to Kvatch though. I'm not sure I can compete with a city. . . I-I'm not sure I want to. I also hope that it is truly Savlian that makes me feel this way, not just the image of a hero. I mean I barely know the man, yet the power of my feelings for him scares me." I heaved a sigh. "I don't know what to write."

"Humans live their lives quickly," replied Acadian, "and Tamriel is a dangerous place that can threaten even an elf's long lifespan. You will never know the answers to your questions if you don't enter the arena - or dance floor in this case. My recommendation?"

I nodded vigorously.

"I hope you dance."

I smiled at the image. "Thank you, my paladin. I'm glad you're a part of me."

I returned my attention to the parchment, and set quill to it.

My Dear Savlian,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I will keep it close to my heart. It finds me in Bravil, where I must yet wait several more days for the Council of Mages to decide if they will provide help for us. I'm honestly not sure what, if any, aid to expect. I long to return to Kvatch, and find myself frustrated by the delays.

Savlian, I have learned how to hunt and kill Daedra where they live, and I now know how to close that fiery portal. You were right; it must be done from inside the gate.

As soon as I can, I will return to Kvatch. And to you. I remember when you wisely knew I wasn't yet ready to enter an Oblivion Gate, and your strong arm pulled me back. I also remember your gentle hand on my face. When I do return, I will not run off again and we will close that gate.

With warmest affection, Buffy

I looked at the words I had quilled, my heart pounding at their forwardness. From my dressing table, I retrieved a small vial of citrus-scented perfume that Ardaline had made for me. I rubbed a few drops over the parchment before folding and sealing it with candle wax. Finally, I pressed the imprint of my Leyawiin court ring into the warm wax.

I exchanged my blue silk robe for a simple black-trimmed burgundy blouse and skirt of linen. Oh, and matching slippers of course. My first stop was The Fair Deal, where I bought several apples for Superian and her stable mates. While there, I noted much of the Courier was about the tournament results including a small paragraph about me. I then made my way to the stable where I delivered the apples and left my letter for the next sister of the black horse headed north. After a light lunch at the guild, I found myself home and once again wrapped in my dressing gown.

It was a much needed quiet afternoon, spent updating my journal and sipping Tamika's.

Following some bread and cheese, I practiced my spells into the evening. My magical skills were improving and I was becoming more efficient at using magicka. When I did return to the University, I would be able to create new spells that were more powerful and creative. I added several entries to a page of my journal that I maintained for new spell and enchantment ideas.

Finally, I climbed into bed. After rereading Savlian's letter, I clutched it between my breasts and extinguished the bedside lantern.

[mALX]

WOO HOO !!! Acadian is BACK! He was greatly missed during the Tourney, lol. Great Chapter! I love that Matias is carrying the letter with him as he fights the Daedra. Great Write !!

[haute ecole rider]

As if this didn't give away Savlian's feelings about Buffy:

I carry it with me, and fear I shall wear it out.

Then this only makes it more obvious:

Rereading your letter and thoughts of your beautiful smile help brighten the long days. I miss you.

Dear Buffy, Savlian is as touched by you as you are by him. Even Julian could see it, as love-blind that she is. Savlian doesn't strike me as the sort of man to throw casual endearments about. He says what he means and he means what he says.

I loved this little scene with the letters. I'm glad that she got a letter from Savlian. It came at a good time, when her newfound friends left town, the excitement of the tourney is over, and she has a chance to look ahead to the future again and worry about the Mages Guild's upcoming decision. What a great inspiration to keep going! Not that she needed it, but it only validates her determination to close that Gate outside Kvatch.

This post has been edited by haute ecole rider: Jun 21 2011, 03:11 PM

[hazmick]

"Acadian. . . you know about being a man, right?"

Being a man? Well...we can pee standing up...and...erm...we never talk about thoughts and feelings, forsaking such things in favour of beer and...stuff...yup, that's about it.

I loved Buffy's hesitance when replying to her "friends" letter. Should she send it? Of course! Drop some hints and finish it off with a dab of perfume.

A wonderful chapter, now you have me all interested in Buffy's love life! I can't wait to see what happens in future chapters!

[King Coin]

Another wonderful chapter. This letter brings Buffy's quest sharply into focus after spending lots of time focusing on the tournament. Buffy's self doubt is understandable and very natural. I echo Buffy's paladin

"I hope you dance."

[Grits]

What a heartwarming pair of letters!

"Acadian. . . you know about being a man, right?"

A delightfully vague and all-encompassing question! I got a big smile out of it.

I know how dedicated he is to Kvatch though. I'm not sure I can compete with a city. . . I-I'm not sure I want to. I also hope that it is truly Savlian that makes me feel this way, not just the image of a hero. I mean I barely know the man, yet the power of my feelings for him scares me."

Buffy shows a great deal of maturity here, her concerns are real. And her paladin’s recommendation, I hope you dance, is a perfectly beautiful piece of advice.

I so enjoy the image of each of them holding their letter close to their heart.

[SubRosa]

Savlian misses Buffy, and is afraid he is going to wear out her previous letter... Buffy can indeed be less than sharp an arrow where it concerns him. How often that is with the one person you really care for.

Acadian's talk with Buffy reminded me of a Babylon 5 episode. "My shoes are too tight," said Londo Mollari, "and I have forgotten how to dance." Words his father once said to him as an old, and broken down old man who forgot how to love. I am glad to see that Buffy's shoes are not too tight, and she still remembers how to dance.

[MyCat]

Buffy's back! (And Acadian. We all have to deal with passing the torch to the next generation.)

I hope she realizes that elves and humans have an order of magnitude difference in their life spans.

[Zalphon]

"Buffy, for one so bright, sometimes you are not the sharpest arrow in the quiver." His words were not biting; rather they were like a gentle caress.

I liked that

[Acadian]

In Episode 115, Buffy studied the letter she had just received from Savlian Matius. Not only did Savlian seem to be doing well given the circumstances, but Buffy believed she read affection between his lines. Acadian agreed. Emboldened to follow her heart, Buffy crafted a response, displaying her own affection slightly more openly than Savlian had. Finally, she ended her day by rereading his letter and falling asleep with it clutched in her hand.

mALX- Thank you! Buffy's dance card was just so darn full during the lead up and shooting portion of the tourney, that is was difficult to squeeze in interaction with Acadian.

Rider- I'm so delighted that the assessment shared by you and Julian is similar to Acadian's. Buffy is frightened by her feelings, but I don't expect that will stop her from reaching out to see where they lead. It means a great deal that you and Julian think highly of Savlian.

hazmick- Thank you for your interest in Buffy's love life and there certainly will be more of it in the future. For a young elf that wears and shares her feelings and observations about everything so openly, I expect Buffy will be no different when it comes to that subject.

KC- Thank you! It was indeed our intent to spotlight Buffy's quest and who inspires her to pursue it.

Grits- Thank you! Acadian has traveled with Buffy for so long that when asked to think like a man, he had to pause for a moment. I'm so glad you endorse his advice. I agree with you that despite her youth and inexperience in the arena of love, Buffy does have some good insights. I think she realizes Savlian feels something for her, but she is restrained by her own lack of self-confidence. She does indeed point out some valid concerns that she should learn the answers to. Given the separation of distance and time, their letters are the most personal thing they have to hold on to.

SubRosa- Acadian did get a little blunt inferring Buffy was a dull arrow and that her mare possessed more insight into love than Buffy. I'm glad he offered her the dance advice, for I quite adore the arena / dance floor metaphors. You have to actively participate in life with its risks to ever hope of fully experiencing it of course.

MyCat- Thank you. You are exactly right in noting how differently humans and elves age. Buffy is aware of this and has even pondered it - in fact she will do so again in this next episode. She still has yet to fully confront whether she can accept or deal with it or not in a potential mate.

Zalphon- Thank you. That 'dull arrow' comment from Acadian could have easily earned him a full blown hands-on-the hips, chin in the air lecture from Buffy under other circumstances. Fortunately, their spirits are interwoven to the extent that she could sense and properly assess his intent.

* * *

116 The Tournament of Archers, Part 32- A Wet Morning

The lush grass that was flattened beneath me softly tickled my back and legs. Intoxicating sounds from the nearby waterfall filled my ears. A gently cooling breeze played across the water droplets on my skin. I could hear birds chirping in the sunlit branches above us as I stared up into the beautiful brown eyes that were deep enough to hold my dreams. Smiling, I reached out to slip off the black headband. His face drew closer. As a gentle hand moved my wet hair aside and touched the side of my face, I closed my eyes with a sigh. A moment later, I felt his lips meet mine.

I returned his kiss, which was gentle at first. As it grew more insistent, my lips were parted and we tasted deeply of each other. Fingers gently caressed and teased along the outline of one pointed ear, sending a shiver straight down my back. The sensation rippled through my hips and continued to my toes. His hand slowly traced a path along my neck. Enchanted fingers then fanned open to span from shoulder to throat, awakening an ache for more.

A knocking sound caused me to cry out in surprise and disappointment as Savlian disappeared. The beautiful sun-dappled meadow was replaced by near darkness. A dim light from embers in the fireplace revealed that I was in my own bed - alone. One hand was still between my breasts, clutching the letter he had sent me. I closed my eyes tightly and squeaked, "Savlian, come back to me."

"Dame Buffy?" The woman's soft voice that managed to carry through my door chased away any hope I had of returning to my dream.

"Just a moment," I managed to say breathlessly as I reluctantly pulled back the covers and swung my feet to the floor. Judging from the hint of light teasing my windows, I figured it was morning, but very early.

I donned a doeskin robe and padded to the door. "Who is it?"

"Ursanne Loche," came the answer from the other side.

I opened the door to see the Breton wearing a dark cloak and hood, standing in a steady rain. "Ursanne!" I grabbed both her hands, quickly pulled her inside and pressed the door closed against the weather. "Hang up those wet things and sit while I stoke the fire and start us some tea."

"I'm sorry to disturb you so early, Milady." Ursanne hung her hooded cloak on a peg by my door and joined me in the main room of my home.

Once the fire was dancing brightly, I filled my kettle. Pouring some water into a basin, I washed my face and hands to clear the night away. I said to Ursanne, "Milady? You and Aleron have called me Buffy since I was born."

"I know, Milady, but I hear you are a knight now, and that is why I am here. To humbly petition your help."

"Give me those wet shoes so I can set them near the fire to dry," I demanded with a frown and outstretched hands.

After placing her shoes near my hearth, I brought some fruit, bread and cheese to the table. I then knelt before the seated woman and wrapped a wolf pelt around her cold, wet feet. "I'll have hot tea ready for you soon." Finally, I sat in the chair across the table from her. "How can I help you?"

"It's about Aleron, Milady. We went to the tournament awards ceremony, and he was terribly upset that Daenlin didn't win this year. After we got home, it was very late. Instead of coming to bed though, he said he needed to go out and see someone. As you know, that ceremony was two nights ago. I haven't seen him since." Her chin started to quiver and a tear escaped to slide down her cheek. "I'm so worried. I fear his gambling may have finally gotten him into something too deep to get out of."

"Who have you spoken to about this?" I asked as I pressed a linen handkerchief into her hand.

Ursanne dabbed at her eyes. "I asked Captain Lerus for help. She told me that since the tournament was over, Aleron had probably run off to the Imperial City to bet at the Arena. When I told her more of what happened, she scoffed and said she couldn't be bothered having her men chasing around after deadbeats."

I rose, brought us each a cup of tea and slid back into the seat across the table from my guest. I was struck by how much gray now augmented her brown hair. Had the change occurred too gradually for me to notice before? Did the fact that humans lived their short lives so quickly make them creatures to pity or treasures to cherish? "Go on."

"Well," she continued, "I thought about asking one of the guards directly. Gladius Maro has shown kindness to Aleron and I, and he plays no favorites when it comes to the law." Ursanne frowned. "Then I realized that helping me would just get him into trouble - again. Every time he tries to do the right thing, he manages to upset someone in the castle. Then he ends up getting stuck on post by the stable or out on that island in the bay. I hear Captain Lerus was furious when, some time ago, Gladius arrested the Count's son for kicking poor Aia."

"I fear you're right," I sadly replied. "Gladius would no doubt try to help you, and get punished with a poor shift schedule for disobeying Captain Lerus."

"I was going to try and hire the Fighters Guild," she said, "but Aleron took every septim we had. I have no money at all now, Milady. And no one else to turn to." Her eyes swept the floor as the tears started again. "I-I don't know what to -"

"I will help you, Ursanne," I interrupted.

She looked at me with reddened eyes and tear streaked cheeks. "Mara bless you, Milady."

"Do you have any idea who Aleron may have gone out to see two nights ago?" After Ursanne shook her head, I continued, "I recently learned a little about tournament betting and may have some ideas. I can see you're exhausted though, Ursanne. Try to get some rest, and I'll find you as soon as I learn something."

She took one of my hands in both of hers and brought it to her lips. "Thank you, Milady. I shall await word in the chapel, where I will be asking Mara to watch over and protect you."

I helped Ursanne with her shoes and cloak, then closed the door after she left.

As a result of my efforts to locate the drain marksman scroll that Reman Broder had intended to sabotage the tournament with, I had a pretty good idea where to start the search for Aleron. He had over bet his purse on Daenlin, most likely with money borrowed from Kurdan gro-Dragol. The orc was dangerous, greedy and cunning. I didn't relish another meeting with him.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Jun 26 2011, 12:48 PM

[haute ecole rider]

Oooh, a wet-dream! What a way to start the day! Unfortunately I know just a little too well the feeling that results from waking up just when the going gets good. Poor Buffy!

And now we see Ursanne at her distressed best. Bless dear Buffy for making her comfortable first. Buffy is a consummate hostess toward her friends.

What a wonderful summation of the state of things in the town guard. Your version of Captain Lerus is a little different from mine but still fits the in-game situation very well.

And is Buffy about to get caught up in the world's most dangerous hunt? I look forward to finding out!

[King Coin]

Woah! Buffy has really fallen in deep for Savlian.

Oh no! Buffy seems to know Ursanne and Aleron well. Careful around Kurdan Buffy!

Always a pleasure, Acadian.

[mALX]

Oh no, Buffy and Kurdan to meet again! I see trouble in her future! GAAAAAH !!

[hazmick]

I hope Buffy knows what is about to go down. When Haa-Rei did that quest he only just managed to get out alive. Our Bosmer needs health potions! Lots of 'em.

[Grits]

A wet morning, indeed. Darn it, Ursanne!! It seems that Buffy’s dreams can be as delicately enchanting as the bowgirl herself.

Did the fact that humans lived their short lives so quickly make them creatures to pity or treasures to cherish?

I am reminded here of the caution that makes Buffy the butterfly such a deadly force with her bow. It makes perfect sense that while she sometimes may not be the sharpest arrow in the quiver (I didn’t say that, Buffy! ), she would approach the heart’s arena/dance floor with care.

The orc was dangerous, greedy and cunning. I didn't relish another meeting with him.

I am chilled by the thought. A poisoned arrow won’t get any information from Kurdan. I look forward to seeing how Buffy gets this job done.

This post has been edited by Grits: Jun 26 2011, 05:39 PM

[MyCat]

Buffy is never going to see Savlian again, unless she is very very careful! And there's traps in her future too.

[ghastley]

This quest isn't an easy one for a ranged/stealth character. It will be interesting to see how the mystic side of the archer comes through.

I like the change from Ursanne being totally passive and waiting to be approached by the player. It just makes so much more sense this way, especially with that explanation of why the city guards can't do anything.