Buffy the Bowgirl, Book 1, Thread 5, Do You Know the Way to Kvatch? Options

[King Coin]

Oh no, not that little twerp. At least he’s been put to use. Lol.

The two orcs sound more refined than I expected. Perhaps Mazoga has learned some speechcraft from Agronak.

Gods’ ghoulies it’s good to see you my pal!
That’s the Mazoga we know!

And we end on a sobering note. The battle to come and its aftermath.

[Darkness Eternal]

"Savlian and I quickly made our way up the squishy surface of one ramp to the upper ledge. By the time we arrived, the scamp was a lifeless broken heap, covered with frost."

Serves them right. No Mehrune's Daedra are impervious to ice! Ice ice babay!

"Noting that the domed roof of the tower sloped down into dark recesses around the perimeter, I grabbed Savlian’s hand and tugged him into a position that would better maintain our stealth. We crouched to observe, waiting for an opportunity to exploit."

Nice. I pictured this in my mind, as if I was watching it. "Get down, dude." type thing. Haha. Loved it.

"I’m not about to abandon the elf I love inside a damn Oblivion Gate!”

Chills! Oooh!

“I’ll never let go of you, Savlian.”
He pulled me to him and, atop a sigil tower in the Deadlands, we kissed.
Lively romanc in the Deadlands. Beautiful.


157:

When the tumbling and noise finally stopped, blue eyes opened inches away from brown ones. Although no longer on our feet, Savlian and I were still clutched tightly together. Cool air filled our grateful lungs. As we sat up, a cheer reached my big ears.

I can imagine the relief! Literally, to hell and back! The part where the air filled their lungs was pretty awesome, I know for a fact that Dagon's realm is inhospitable and the air is smokey and hot. You know, like breathing through your nose in a hot sauna but greater times beyond. It stinks that Menien got left behind though.

A handful of clannfears interrupted their birdlike stalking to claw curiously at the rain as it flowed over cobblestones. I could see a Dremora mage that appeared to be arguing with two warriors. Numerous scamps roamed the area. Studying their tall pointed ears, slight builds and almost stealthy movements.

Oh the frustration. You return from behind the enemy lines only to once again find yourself into their midst. I find myself cheering for Buffy and Savlian. I never liked Dagon or his Daedra to begin with. So I will root for them.

By Azura, chapter 158!

“By Azura! By Azura! By Azura!” All three of us wheeled toward the voice behind us. The young Bosmeri face and twisted steeple of yellow hair belonged to Fanador.

Oh gawd. Seeing Azura three times in a single sentance makes me cringe. This was myreaction when I read this.

And sweet, Agronak is back. And he's not whining about his pops!

And Mazoga too. Give it up for Malacath's Pariah folks! I always thought they would make a good couple, Mazoga and Agronak. Makes me want to go play Oblivion again. Great chapters, I caught up. Edge of the seat feeling, especially the Oblivion parts. Didn't think I stopped reading the tale, did you?

[Grits]

The plan to liberate Kvatch was great to watch unfold. And of course this line:

I’d much rather fight them on open ground than send our force into the gauntlet of assaulting my own damn gatehouse.”

Made me smile for Savlian as well as think about the frustration that the Kvatch defenders have lived with for so long.


“A well-needed morale boost,” remarked Savlian as we all watched the beautiful sight. He seemed to be studying the city gate and angle of the sun. “Plan our assault tomorrow for two hours after dawn.”

Sunrise must also be an unfamiliar sight to the Daedra, I’m guessing that Savlian is working it into his tactics. I love how Buffy enjoys the sunshine, thinks about hope, and simply relays Savlian's words without interpreting them.


“By Azura! By Azura! By Azura!”

Oh, how fun! Fanador and the mighty orcish knights!! This day just keeps getting better. Mazoga and Agronak were wonderful together. I had such an image of Buffy inwardly dancing with impatience while the green giants were talking war with Lucilius. Wiggle like a puppy, lol.

How sweet that Savlian suggested visiting the stable before they retired for the night. Fanador’s amorous, obstreperous donkey is the perfect sidekick for him.


“Belle and the wagon will be needed tomorrow to carry our wounded. . . and dead.” His hand moved from Superian and fell gently on my shoulder. “Our farmers – with their shovels – will be needed as well.”

At this sobering thought I was reminded that Savlian is probably preparing his young elf for what the next day will bring. Buffy’s earlier hopeful chatter about a wonderful future after the battle made me wonder how surviving it would change her. This was the perfect touch at the end of a beautiful episode.

[ghastley]

I don't know if anyone else is having this issue, but the possibilities of the Adoring Fan getting involved in the upcoming battle are just boggling my mind.

I can just see a short-sighted Flame Atronach thinking she's finally found a male of her own kind.

[Acadian]

During Episode 158, Savlian and Lucilius digested the intelligence their elven scout had gathered from inside Kvatch and began refining battle plans. Savlian announced the assault would commence two hours after sunrise the following day. It was quite a surprise when Sirs Mazoga and Agronak arrived and offered their swords to Buffy and Savlian’s cause. After returning to the encampment with Savlian, Buffy noted how preparations for war seemed to pervade every aspect of life in Kvatch.

mALX- I thought about all the gear it would take to squire for a pair of heavy metal knights and wanted to give Fanador some help lugging it around. So glad you got a donkey kick out of it! Thank you!

McBadgere- Wow, high praise indeed, my friend. Thank you so much! From a master of creative names such as yourself, the endorsement of Fanador means a lot.

SubRosa- Thanks. Like you, I much prefer the path our Gray Prince is on – glory and the girl both! I grinned at your mention of Xena; although not a perfect match, I see much of her in the mighty Mazoga and, as you suspect, the connection was not coincidence. Although not quite Gabrielesque in nature, there is certainly an element of adoration between Buffy and her huge pal.

Zalphon- Thank you. The fun of using NPC’s in fic is their familiarity; the challenge is doing justice to them and wickering in believable changes.

KC- Thanks! I see Agronak as fairly refined; perhaps some training from his mother, combined with his strong desire to be a noble. Clearly, that refinement is influencing Mazoga. Both she and Buffy observe the convention of addressing each other somewhat formally in public – a measure of mutual respect for their titles. In their moments alone however, the pair of pals freely let loose with the ‘Zoga and Buff stuff.

Darkness Eternal- Thank you much for endorsing our attempt to weave romance into an Oblivion Gate! I also appreciate your pointing out how wonderful those first breaths of cool air after the gate closed must have felt. I’m so glad you like our Agronak and Mazoga; Buffy and I have become quite attached to them.

Grits- Thank you for noting Buffy’s approach to telling the story here. She knows very little of soldiering and organized assaults so she will largely be simply reporting her clueless observations. As ever, you certainly drew what I hoped you would from that episode, including what a couple the two orcs have become, Buffy’s excitement at their arrival, Savlian’s thoughtfulness to visit Superian and, of course the somber implications of Belle and her wagon.

ghastley- Oh you really had me in stitches there! A flame atronach sporting a yellow 'Fanadoo' and stalking the little Bosmer as a potential mate! Fanador will indeed serve in the upcoming battle, but in a supporting role as the squire that he has become.

* * *

159 Preparations for War

It was late into what had been a busy afternoon before we dropped off the sigil stone with Sigrid for safekeeping and finally made it back to our tent. I racked Slayer and my quiver, faced Savlian and we both grinned. “We did it!” I squealed, launching myself at him. My arms flew around his neck as both legs circled his waist. I was planting kisses all over his face and neck as his arms wrapped fully around me.

“Captain?” The voice outside sounded quite boyish.

Savlian sighed, then lowered his frowning elf to the ground. “Enter.”

It was the smith’s apprentice who appeared in our tent. “Batul finished repairing your sword and shield. She told me to deliver them.” He placed the Legion blade next to Slayer then leaned Savlian’s now gleaming shield against the weapons rack, taking care to ensure the wolf’s head was upright.

“Thank you, Tiberius,” said Savlian. “Tell Batul there is no rush on my mail and to focus on the equipment of others.” He touched a hand to his chest. “This spare armor is perfectly good to wear into battle.”

After the young Imperial left, Savlian turned to me. “Buffy, tomorrow will bear little resemblance to the fighting that you and I have seen together. I must lead my small army into the teeth of a defended city and castle within. We both know that large-scale melee combat is no place for you.”

“Your responsibility is daunting,” I paused to choose my words carefully, “and I do not wish to add to that burden. All I require is that you allow me to fight for you. I will fill any such roll you ask, and do my best to survive and make you proud of me.”

“I’ll not countermand Lucilius then when he, no doubt, assigns you to a position among our archers and mages where your lethality can be safely brought to bear. No doubt, your talent for healing will be required as well. I regret that I cannot lead the assault and fully focus on protecting the elf I love at the same time. Once the city is free, I will take measures to ensure I never face this dilemma again.”

“I know your feelings for me Savlian; you show them in every action you take. I don’t want you to feel torn or guilty for one moment. The man I love not only has a small elf to deal with, but a whole army and city to worry about as well.” I reached up to caress his cheek. “When the sun rises, morn after the morrow, it will shine upon a free Kvatch. You and I both want as many of her defenders alive as possible to see it.”

“Thank you, my beautiful elven scout. Your words are like soothing magic to this troubled spirit.” He pressed my hand to his lips for a moment before continuing, “I will be unable to protect you with my shield tomorrow. Do not expect shadows to hide you. Invisibility will simply make you a more likely victim for the unintended blade or arrow of an ally.”

I smiled with feigned confidence. “I’m a small target.”

“I know that, Buffy. Your leather scale armor served you well in the Deadlands, but tomorrow favors steel over stealth. Do you have anything stouter?”

I pulled the magical bag of holding from my feather-enchanted pack. “I can stuff an amazing array of items in here, although I do try to limit things or I would never be able to find what I need.” My arm disappeared up to the shoulder and, after digging around, produced two sets of upper body armor. “I pulled this forest green elven mail off a small bandit near Leyawiin that Sir Mazoga nearly beheaded. This other black cuirass is called Night Shadow and I bought it from a vender in Bravil during this year’s Tournament of Archers.”

Savlian ran experienced eyes and hands over the two assemblages. “Both armors are exceptionally well-crafted, lightweight and have sturdy breastplates. They also boast substantial pauldrons, replete with haultguards to protect that precious neck of yours. This green set, however, provides protective hip skirting of mail and will serve you better tomorrow. Do you have any greaves with some metal to them?”

I smiled as the magic bag once again swallowed my arm. “Here. I bought and had these fitted in Leyawiin.”

He held up the light mail greaves that, except for their size, were similar to his own. “Perfect. We’ll check the fit and adjustment of everything carefully in the morning.”

I nodded my agreement then asked, “What else do we need to do so you are ready for tomorrow?”

“I want to speak with Lucilius again to review our battle plans.”

“Knowing how you two work together, I suspect he is thinking the same thing.” I placed both hands behind my back, looked up coyly and added, “Shall I summon him for you?”

Savlian lifted an eyebrow. “I know you’re a skilled mage, but surely you -“

“Kiss me,” I interrupted.

He did so.

“Captain?”

I sighed. “Come in, Lucilius.”

“Good evening, Milady,” said the soldier as he allowed the tent flap to close behind him. “Sir, I thought you might want to review and adjust plans for the assault, unit assignments and coordinating instructions.”

“Has Merandil completed his fire support plan so we can refine the initial attack formation?”

“Bad news on that count, sir. Destroying the Oblivion Gate failed to disable the Daedric warding atop the city walls as we hoped it would. We still can’t send high angle fire into the city. Merandil recommends standing off the formation a hundred paces. With our swordsmen kneeling at the ready, the archers behind them can deliver direct fire as soon as we open the city. When the Deadra hopefully charge out and our front ranks stand to engage, Merandil’s shooters can shift to high angle fire with a killing zone just outside the gate.”

“Make it so,” replied Savlian, “and run the barricades perpendicularly from the walls out to the front corners of our formation. I want an alley of death for the Deadra to run, but I damn well don’t want them flanking us.”

“We’ll do it, sir.”

“Corner units where our front flanks meet the ends of the barricades?” Savlian’s question was more of a statement.

Lucilius nodded. “They’re built around pairing magic with steel. The one on our left will consist of the Orsimer knights, Raccan, Sigrid and I. The right front corner will be protected by our pair of battlemages, Dreelius, Dame Buffy and you. Except for our one mystic archer, the mages can’t shift to high angle fire. From those corner positions, though, they won’t have to cease their flat trajectory attacks when our front ranks engage. The enemy won’t flank the steel on those corners either.” He glanced down at me before adding, “Between Sigrid and Dame Buffy, we’ll have a strong healing ability on both sides of the formation as well.”

“Well done, Lucilius,” said Savlian with a grim smile. “The arrangement also disperses you and I to positions where we can effectively command and control, yet remain unlikely to both be taken out at the same time. I think that provides everything I asked for. Now, eventually we’ll need to maneuver our. . .”

I plopped onto the chest in one corner of our tent as the conversation progressed from fire support to large scale tactics that I didn’t understand. Drawing a handful of hair over one shoulder, my fingers began absently braiding and unbraiding it. I was quite frightened – and distracted I’m sure - at the prospect of a big melee fight in the open with so many allies and foes.

“. . . some resistance to their fire attacks thanks to those rings provided by Dame Buffy. . .”

I went over my own spells and tactics, rejecting many of them as inappropriate for the venue I envisioned.

“. . . vulnerable while funneling each rank through the open. . .”

My mind struggled to imagine what could happen as I attempted to devise solutions to my own ineffectiveness in open battle. I couldn’t share my fears with Savlian – he had enough to worry about.

“. . . prepared to change our tactics after first blood is. . .”

I so wished I had Boderi Farano to help me sort out how I could possibly be of use in the scenario I foresaw. I kept envisioning Slayer piercing our own soldiers as they charged across its deadly line of fire.

“. . . wheel the formation in front of the chapel to face the castle. . .”

Without time and stealth to carefully set up my shots, how could I possibly . . .

“. . . do that for us, Buffy?”

“Forgive me, Savlian. I-I was distracted. What would you have me do?”

“Lucilius has pointed out that the Legion will eventually demand a report on how the Oblivion Gate was closed. Could you perhaps write out some notes on how we did so while the specifics are still fresh? That will free Lucilius and I to continue refining plans for tomorrow.”

“Of course.” I was actually grateful for the diversion as I set quill to parchment and detailed what we had learned inside the Deadlands of Mehrunes Dagon. Once my task was complete, I used restoration magic to absorb my words and restore them several times onto additional blank sheets of parchment. I thusly created several copies. I knew that most arcane clerks favored alteration magic for the task, but restoration came more naturally to me.

It was late when Lucilius finally left us.

*

I awoke in the cool of predawn.

A gentle hand pulled the hair from my face then lovingly trailed up and down the skin of my back. My fingers slowly traced the line of a deep scar that ran from one shoulder over the muscles of Savlian’s chest, then across the man squares on his stomach almost to the opposite hip. “When this day is over,” he said quietly, “I will have seen enough blood to know who and what is worth spilling it for. I want to wake up each day just like this morning, with the golden silk of your hair caressing my skin. There may be tasks ahead that we agree need to be done, but every day I will ask myself how to best provide for the needs of my elf.”

“I love you, Savlian. We will free your city today, then build a life here together.”

“Aye. It’s almost dawn.” He rose and pulled me to my feet. “Let’s get you into that armor and adjust the fit.”

[McBadgere]

I placed both hands behind my back, looked up coyly and added, “Shall I summon him for you?”

Savlian lifted an eyebrow. “I know you’re a skilled mage, but surely you -“

“Kiss me,” I interrupted.

He did so.

“Captain?”

I sighed. “Come in, Lucilius.”

That, was just too funny...Well done m'friend!!... ...

Loved the whole chapter...

The way Salvian's conversation drifted through Buffy's thoughts was brilliantly done...

And I loved muchly the restoration photocopier...Excellent idea!!... ...It's these cool little ideas for magic that make these worlds so brilliantly alive... ...

Nice one!!...As ever!...

*Applauds heartily*...

[mALX]

I love the way you wove through Buffy's distracted thoughts for her own battle plans between the ones that were being made around her.

This little detail was outstanding:

taking care to ensure the wolf’s head was upright.

AWESOME WRITE !!!!!!!

[King Coin]

Savlian sighed, then lowered his frowning elf to the ground. “Enter.”

I think if they want more time alone, they’ll have to leave camp…

I’m glad Buffy has some appropriate armor for the battle to come.

Oh that was perfect, Buffy summoning Lucilius!

That was a great scene of Buffy trying to decide what she should do while Sav plans the assault.

[SubRosa]

I like how it is our tent now, rather than Savlian's. It is a nice little example of how their relationship has grown by leaps and bounds since the Buffster's return to Kvatch.

Like the others I also loved how Buffy summoned Lucilius! Yes, some things just seem to be written in the stars for our couple, like never having a moment to get busy!

Obi-wan and Luke, erm I mean Savlian and Luke, erm Savlian and Lucilius have some solid tactics for their coming attack upon the city. Leaving poor Buffy with naught to do but worry about how she will do so far out of her normal comfort zone, in the middle of a pitched battle.

At least Luke and Obi gave her the task of writing out a report on the closure of the gate. That gave Buffy something to do, other then worry about the coming battle. Seeing her photocopy spell at the end was a delight. As you know, I love seeing everyday uses of magic, aside from just blasting things.

Now it is almost dawn. Preparations have been made. Next Friday, or the one after that, I expect we will be back in Kvatch.

[Grits]

How lovely that Buffy and Savlian got at least a tiny celebration of their victory in the Deadlands. That they were of one mind and mood here makes me think about how they must have been silently attuned to each other throughout the afternoon.

“I’ll not countermand Lucilius then when he, no doubt, assigns you to a position among our archers and mages where your lethality can be safely brought to bear. No doubt, your talent for healing will be required as well. I regret that I cannot lead the assault and fully focus on protecting the elf I love at the same time. Once the city is free, I will take measures to ensure I never face this dilemma again.”

Savlian says a lot in a few sentences here. I’m reminded of how capable and trusted Lucilius is, and that Buffy will be part of a unit in the battle, not hidden somewhere on her own. I worry for what she will have to face when she heals people, and how she will deal with the choices she will probably have to make as part of that responsibility. And at the end of his remarks, Savlian indicates that while Buffy has been chattering about their future together, Savlian has been planning how he will “make it so.” Wonderful!

Buffy’s “Summon Lucilius” spell was a welcome touch of humor after the sobering small target and armor discussion. I love the way scraps of conversation wove through her worried, wandering thoughts as she doubted and second-guessed herself. She spent so long preparing herself to close the Gate, and now she only has a few hours to learn how to be in a huge battle.

Having her take on the burden of writing their report was a great idea from Savlian. I guess he noticed the nervous hair-braiding. I love the copy spell because it’s clever and also because Buffy remarks that the same task can be done in more than one way. Really neat!

Waking together just before dawn was a beautiful way to end the chapter and look ahead to the next one. Of course I’ve never prepared for a war, but I know how it feels when there’s work to be done right before everything changes. This chapter had that feeling throughout. Possibly my favorite chapter yet.

[ghastley]

Now look what you're about to make me do!

If your "Summon Lucilius" were a real spell, it would be unique in requiring two people to cast it. So now I'm wondering if a mod could add two-person spells to the game, and how they'd work, and what they'd do.

Especially when cast by two unusual people like Angeline and Diablita.

[Andrea]

WOWOWOW!

I've only just joined and I am already Wowed by this story! I think I may need to read the summary just so I can keep up, but what i've read so far is amazing!

Buffy is so funny, and I love the idea that she shares her body with a spirit who speaks with her and guides her. GENIUS!

I'm very over excited at the moment, and i will calm down eventually. Just excited to be a part of something so big!

Right, enough babbling, off to the summary I go, but I just thought i'd say 'hi' and that you've got another fan

[Acadian]

Preparations for war continued during Episode 159 as Savlian and Buffy discussed how the following day’s battle to free Kvatch would not allow them to fight as a team the way they had cleared Fort Agarctova and closed the Oblivion Gate. Buffy tried to comfort Savlian’s concerns, even consenting to wear sturdier armor. Lucilius visited, and the two leaders of Kvatch discussed more of their plans. Buffy’s swirling fears of melee combat in the open and limited knowledge of larger scale warfare caused her to miss many of the details.

McBadgere- Thanks muchly for your endorsement of the way we tried to weave snippets from the Savlian/Lucilius conversation into Buffy’s distracted ruminations. Clearly we were trying to show her concerns while making an effort to slip a few details of the coming assault to readers.

mALX- As I hinted to McB, I was nervous about weaving so many distractions into Buffy’s thoughts and I’m so glad that it seemed to work. Thanks also for noting that tiny bit about Tiberius placing Savlian’s shield to honor the wolf it bears.

KC- Thank you. Our poor ‘newlyweds’ are hard pressed to get moments alone! I can’t believe Buffy intentionally ‘summoned’ Lucilius.

SubRosa- I’m so glad you noted Buffy’s intentional word selection as she referred to ‘our’ tent. Heh, the couple perhaps regrets closing Oblivia – it seems one of the few places they could be alone! Those notes on ‘how to close an Oblivion Gate’ may come in handy to someone in the future. . . but for now, I’m so glad you appreciated Buffy’s photocopying. Much of our thinking on everyday uses of magic is inspired by your own skill in this area.

Grits- You certainly pulled all I had hoped you would from our humble words. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you sharing your insights on what we are trying to portray.

ghastley- Leave it to you to consider the possibilities of a ‘Summon Lucilius’ spell! I shudder to think who (or what) would result from an Angeline and Diablita summoning session! Buffy has a penpal on the other forum (Lothran); the two of them jointly created a spell that summons a carrier dove to transport letters between them.

Andrea- Thank you so much for joining us! I see you are aware of our ‘Executive Summary’ thread that provides a 2000 word summary to catch up if you are short on time. I so hope you will stay with us! I'm delighted to see that you are off to a magnificent start with Jessika’s Journal and look forward to us supporting each other.

All- Savlian’s Army of Kvatch will require the next nine episodes to free the city. Although we’ll see some recognizable elements from the game, expect a larger scale and numerous twists, turns and changes from the battle we’ve all fought atop Kvatch Mountain. Movie and speech buffs may recognize that some of Savlian’s words, tone and actions in today’s episode were influenced by leaders (fictitious and real) as diverse as King Arthur, Maximus Decimus Meridius and Ronald Reagan.

* * *

160 Open Fire

By the time Savlian was satisfied with the fit of my forest elven armor and we slipped out of our tent, nearly half the sun’s orb greeted us from a bright eastern horizon. He led me to the stable for a quick visit with Superian, then to the spacious open-sided tent that covered the encampment’s feeding area.

Despite my growling stomach, we didn’t eat right away; rather, Savlian joined Lucilius and several of the team leaders as they moved among the large number of soldiers and handful of mages who were enjoying a meal. Lucilius brandished a flagon in each hand and was topping off diners’ cups with apple-berry juice. Unsure what was expected of me, I found a brimming clay pitcher and joined Lucilius in filling the mugs of soldiers as they ate.

As ever, I was impressed by Savlian’s magical ability to inspire his soldiers via cheerful banter. In this case, he not only verified they were being well-fed, but confidently joked about the victory dinner that Weedum-Ja was planning.

I nearly bumped into Fanador as he was hurriedly stuffing all manner of food into a large bag. As the cheerful Bosmer slung his burden over one shoulder, he confirmed that it was for delivery to his knights, along with the fighting monks of Talos and others currently on duty up near the city gate.

As soldiers finished eating, they would gather their weaponry from arming tables just beyond the rolled up sides of the yellow and white tent, then head up the hill. Once it became clear that there remained plenty of food, Savlian and I accepted bowls of porridge and joined his subordinate leaders as they ate.

“Savlian,” I said quietly as I placed one hand on his forearm, “it comes quite naturally to me to see that others are fed first, but it is certainly not the behavior I’ve seen from leaders of wolf packs or goblin tribes at meal time; they eat first.”

“Indeed, my elf,” Savlian replied patiently, “many armies operate that way. These soldiers, however, are the muscle and bone that will deliver victory today. I will see to their needs before my own.” He then gave me a crooked smile. “Besides, what happens to that leader of a wolf pack or goblin tribe when they are wounded or begin to show their years?”

“They’re killed and replaced by subordinates eager to seize their position.” After a moment, I added, “I like your style of leadership better.” Finally, even Lucilius and the other leaders headed up the hill. “Shall we go with them?”

“Nay. My arrival at the city gate heralds the assault.” Savlian poured us each another cup of juice. “Lucilius has numerous details to yet set in place. He needs some time up on the hill to do his job before I can do mine. Soon enough, Buffy.”

A group of the encampment’s farmers approached the tent, placing their picks and shovels on the arming tables. Two of the five humans were women, but all had callused hands and skin that had been creased and darkened by the sun. After filling bowls and plates, they joined us. The oldest looking man said, “She be a good enough day for killin’ Daedra I s’pose, Cap’n?”

“Aye,” replied Savlian. “I intend that we have a better day than our foes. This spring, you’ll be sowing your crops where they belong – into the rich fields surrounding our city walls.”

“Akatosh watch over ye and yer lads.” After a sharp elbow to his ribs from one of the leather-skinned women, the grizzled farmer glanced at me and added, “And yer fightin’ lasses o’course.”

“Thank you, friends. My second in command asked for your help today, did he not?”

“That he did,” the same farmer replied. “When the fightin’s done, we’ll plant yer fallen on the western edge of the upper plateau. There, they can rest and watch the sun set o’er the Abecean each eve. ‘Tis the least we can do. Lucilius told us ta wait till the assault started afore showin’ up though. When d’ye figure that’ll be?”

Savlian drained his cup and set it firmly on the table. He then rose to his feet. “My scout and I are starting the trek up there now.” As we gathered our weaponry he glanced eastward, then turned to the farmers and added, “Give the sun enough time to rise another fist above the horizon, then start up the hill. I’ll try to keep your work to a minimum today.”

*

As Savlian and I crested the upper plateau, I was struck by the unusual sight of Kvatch’s gray walls bathed in bright golden light. The midwinter sun followed a somewhat southern path and I realized now that Savlian had chosen the time of assault to place the morning glare into the eyes of our foes.

Flanking the city’s gate and about thirty paces apart, two parallel rows of sharpened wood barricades butted against the stone walls. These barriers extended perpendicularly from the city for what I estimated to be a hundred paces. Their ends met the front corners of a large formation.

Among the rainbow of surcoats, I recognized Ilend, Bjorn and Calvaria as three of the team leaders evenly positioned in the front rank of sword and shield users. Right behind them was a second rank of similarly equipped soldiers that included the robed ‘fighting monks,’ Baurus and Arturo.

Across the same width of frontage behind the sword ranks was a row of archers. I could readily identify their Altmeri leader, Merandil, as he stood nearly a head taller than any of his bow users.

Standing near the right front corner of the formation were Arielle and Roliand in their gleaming plate armor, along with Dreelius in his blue robe. At the left front corner, Sirs Mazoga and Agronak dwarfed even the armored Raccan and well-filled velvet gown of Sigrid. I understood now what Lucilius had meant about blending steel, magic and healing into these two corner anti-flanking units.

Lucilius stood in front of the entire formation, gauntleted thumbs hooked confidently into his sword belt.

Behind the rear rank and hitched to a flatbed wagon was the chestnut mare, Belle. A massive hoof, heavily feathered in white occasionally pawed the ground. More often than necessary, she tossed her head to clear the recalcitrant blond forelock from her eyes. I could tell she was steady enough, but nervous.

My guild sister, Pelena, hovered between the left wheels as if guarding the line of bags attached to the outside edge of the wagon. I had no doubt they were filled with potions of healing. Along the flatbed’s other side were attached numerous baskets – each bristling with feathered arrow tails. Stable master Bolden, squire Fanador and smith’s apprentice Tiberius quietly talked nearby. I now understood that Belle’s duty was not only to carry the dead and wounded, but to provide resupply as well.

Savlian and I moved up along the right side of the formation until he positioned me between Dreelius and the battlemages at the forward corner. When he stepped out in front of the ranks, every voice grew still.

As Savlian approached Lucilius, each of the two men crashed a gauntleted fist into the black wolves that draped the steel on their chests. A cheer filled the cool morning air as my heart raced with both fear and pride. A confidently smiling Savlian raised one hand and his warriors again went silent. After some words between the two leaders, Lucilius stepped off to the front corner of the left flank.

All eyes and ears were on the Captain of Kvatch. “I know that Lucilius has briefed you to the point that by now all you want to do is kill something.” Chuckles of confirmation rippled through the ranks. “Be assured that you’ll soon have the chance. Today we change the destiny of this city.” Savlian’s face was like cold steel, but his dark eyes blazed fire and determination. “There are those who approach the end of their lives wondering if they ever made a difference. I promise each of you that before the sun sets this day, you will never need ponder that question. Thanks to you,” his Legion blade sang from its scabbard and defiantly spiked the sky, “Kvatch will be free!” I startled at the animalistic roar that erupted from the formation, then heard the sound of every weapon being readied.

Savlian then joined me and unslung his shield. As he fitted it to his left forearm, he gave a nod to Arielle Jurard and Roliand Hanus. Both battlemages left my side and made their way right up to the city gate, where they turned and waited.

“Prepare to deliver fire.” Savlian’s words calmly cleaved the air.

“You heard the man,” trilled the high elven voice of Merandil. “Nock your arrows.” As his archers did so, the sword ranks ahead of them took to one knee. A nudge from the robed elbow of Dreelius helped quiet my butterflies and prompted me to set the tail of an arrow to Slayer’s silk. I noted sparks dancing over the glowing scales of the Argonian’s hand.

Savlian then commanded, “Open the city.”

Arielle bathed the heavy wooden doors in magic to remove the warding she had placed the morning prior. As soon as she and Roliand pulled them wide open, both battlemages jumped clear and ran toward the right barricade.

The words, “Open fire!” from Merandil barely preceded the first volley that flew into the city. Arrows were joined by lightning bolts from the staves of Raccan and Sigrid, posted at the formation’s left front corner. The moment Arielle and Roliand completed their sprint back my corner unit, Dreelius and I opened fire as well.

The tactic seemed to work, as several volleys of arrows and spells fired into the open gates elicited Daedric shrieks and screeches. I even heard Azura’s Star sing for me at one point.

Soon enough though, the Daedra bested their confusion and mounted a charge. More arrows and spells tore into them as they were channeled by the barricades toward our kneeling swordsmen. As Daedra continued to pour from the city, I focused my arrows on those attempting to cast fireballs. I was greatly relieved when I killed a Dremora mage almost as soon as it stepped into view.

“High angle fire!” roared Savlian. The arrows paused briefly. Our sword ranks rose to their feet to meet the oncoming numbers of wounded Daedra who were slowed as they clambered over the bodies of their own dead. Savlian and the two battlemages stepped in front of Dreelius and I to meet any enemies that might try to slip around the end of the barricade and flank us. A glance to the other side of the formation revealed that the steel of both orcs, Raccan and Lucilius blocked any view of Sigrid. The sound of multiple bows loosing skyward barely preceded the first blood drawn by sword.

[Darkness Eternal]

Good chapter. Akatosh has indeed watched over the lads..and "Y'er lasses" too. I was pleased to see the Dremora Mage fall to Buffy's arrows. Nice shot

I swear, you incorporate a good tale within the conflict. Everytime I play Oblivion or set foot near Kvatch, I will remember Buffy and Savlian. It's good that you decided to spend time writing about the conflict.

[mALX]

What a dramatic beginning to the Battle of Kvatch! I always hated these two battles and the one for Bruma - always lost good men in Kvatch, and just plain hated melee fighting, lol. (my sword always hit the wrong side ... "Hey, I'm on YOUR side!")

I especially loved the feel of everything being in slow motion throughout. Like every moment and movement was being recorded by the gods - really Awesome the way you did that!!!

Raccan and Lucilius blocked any view of Sigrid.

Awesome Write !!

This post has been edited by mALX: Apr 13 2012, 03:13 PM

[Andrea]

OH.MY.WOW!

This chapter is truley amazing (definatly what great season finale's are made of ). What starts as what I can only describe as the last supper, or rather breakfast, and carefully delves into perfectly written action is incredible! I actually felt like I was there, watching as the Daedra charged at our heroes! I can't wait for more!

[McBadgere]

As a wise man once said "You take the 10,000 on the left..."

Fantastic stuff...You know by now I like the militaristic stuff, and as always, I'm absolutely in awe of your skill of not only providing absolutely brilliant evocations of strategy and the fighting, but throughout there's the "Human" element of it all...Sheer brilliance...

Once more, m'friend, I bow to thee...

With my steel do I pledge to thee, my Captain...To the end!...And all that... ...

Aw hell...This was just amazing...

*Bows further*...

Nice one...

*Applauds heartily*...

[King Coin]

That’s good that Buffy got a visit with her Mare before the battle starts.

Excellent battle plan, I was at first wondering why Sav chose the time he did.

Ah that was pretty satisfying, opening the gates and shooting everything inside. Awesome chapter!

[ghastley]

I realized now that Savlian had chosen the time of assault to place the morning glare into the eyes of our foes.

This does two things at once. It highlights the level of planning Savlian's capable of, and illustrates Buffy's understanding of him.

This is beginning to resemble Agincourt. Was that a conscious inspiration?

[SubRosa]

Nine episodes for the Battle of Kvatch? One per Divine perhaps? I am glad you are giving it such a sharp focus. Your entire fan fic has been building to this point, it deserves to have this kind of attention lavished upon it.

I liked the big meal before the battle. I was watching Battle 360 recently, which chronicles the U.S.S. Enterprise's role throughout the Pacific War. On the morning of the Battle of Midway, one of the Enterprise pilots commented that the knew something big was going to happen because they got served steak and eggs for breakfast.

I agree with Buffy. I like Savlian's style of leadership better then the other examples.

I am guessing the five farmers are going to be hauling away wounded and dead? Just the dead I see. I loved the thought given in where to bury them. They will have a good view from there at least!

Arrows, lightning bolts, and swords! Here we go. Savlian's plan is working so far. I expect that the Daedra will get a very bloody nose attacking the Kvatch barricades. That will use up some of their strength, and make things a little easier when they finally do enter the city. I forsee the problems beginning there, especially the deeper they go into the ruins...