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

[mALX]

This episode began hilarious, but wound up being touching - and poor Buffy !! This may be my top favorite episode yet !!! AWESOME WRITE !!!!!

[Destri Melarg]

The exchange between Buffy and Acadian was priceless. Somehow I get the feeling that Buffy’s irritability is the greater of the two evils! It is, at the very least, the thing that should worry the guards more! Once more you are able to hint at this tantalizing peace of Buffy’s persona without allowing it to take center stage.

I know that Buffy already regrets it, but on behalf of everyone who has ever tried to stop over in Skingrad THANK YOU!! Glarthir is without question the second most annoying Bosmer in all of Cyrodiil!

Poor Erthor! To be standing in front of the wave when the dyke bursts (now that might have been the wrong choice of metaphor! ) can't have been easy. I see him heading back to Bleak Flats Cave now! At least we know who to blame for the 'Wraith incident' that is about to happen.

As much as it might embarrass Buffy, I think that choosing Falanu over Sinderion can only end badly.

[Acadian]

During Episode 129, Buffy arrived at Skingrad to spend the night en route to Kvatch. She refused to allow the disconcerting fact that she sensed vampires as she neared the castle to delay her journey. Nor was she dissuaded from her path by the curious proposition of a nervous Bosmer named Glarthir. She had been irritable all day, but it was not until she was snapping at a guild mate in response to a harmless remark that a sharp cramp announced the reason for her crankiness. As we left Buffy, she was headed for an alchemical shop.

SubRosa- It was such fun to have Buffy pass near Castle Skingrad again – now that she fully understands what the uncomfortable feeling means. I’m so glad you enjoyed Superian in the scene with Glarthir. I’m both surprised and pleased how the mare has evolved into such an important part of Buffy’s life.

ghastley- Poor wolf indeed. Here, I’m hoping to show that Buffy feels some kinship with wolves and tries to avoid killing them by using her detect life gear to skirt past instead of hunt them; but that goes out the window if they endanger her horse!

The Lost King- Thank you! Buffy will need today’s episode and two more on the road to reach Kvatch.

KC- I’m so glad our joke of warning the castle about Buffy’s mood struck a chord. Yes, Buffy will spend part of this next episode talking about dead things and elven girl stuff with Falanu. Thank you!

Grits- Given your own skill with beautifully creative scene setting, I’m humbled that you enjoyed how we opened last episode. I grinned at your observation of what a good friend Superian is. Thanks for noting the Vigge reference! I think you’ll like Buffy’s reaction to Falanu.

Rider- Thank you so much for letting me know that you suspected the cause of Buffy's unusual behavior before we clearly revealed it. I was very much hoping that would be the case. Buffy’ll get to discuss elven fertility a little more with Falanu coming up. I so look forward to a spark-filled meeting between Buffy and Count Skingrad someday, but that will be in another book. I suspect even Glarthir is wise enough to avoid a run in with Julian!

Foxy- I have heard that women who spend enough time together may find their cycles synchronizing. I can’t vouch for its validity and I never did pose the question to any of our woman drill instructors to gain their insight. I’ll certainly let you know if Buffy and Superian start routinely coming into heat at the same time.

mALX- I’m so pleased at the words you used to describe how the episode evolved! Thank you!

Destri- Writing Buffy as cranky instead of nurturing was somewhat of a challenge and I’m pleased it seemed to work. I expect between Buffy’s mood and Falanu’s famous question, they will not start off on a happy note. I do want to address some points about how elven fertility works in BF though, and hopefully it will seem more natural for Buffy to discuss it with an elf of her own sex.

All- In our next episode, I expect you may be as surprised as I to learn that the elven chatterbox, who wears her emotions on her sleeve, somehow managed to keep a significant piece of her history from all of us. Buffy reminded me that it is her feminine birthright to retain at least a few secrets until she is ready to share them – and by Mara, she certainly shares one in this episode.

* * *

130 Dead Things Are Best Left Undisturbed

The ornately carved sales counter appeared to be made of mahogany, but it was difficult to tell in the soft light of the small alchemy shop. Behind it stood a Dunmer who was quite overdressed for a merchant. The copper color of her hair no doubt came from one of her potion bottles and - oh, Buffy, stop it! I hated myself when I was like this.

"Me? I'm Falanu. House Hlaalu. As if that matters here." Although not unpleasant, she sounded less than enthusiastic.

"Well met, Falanu. I'm Buffy. I take it you're from Morrowind?"

"Yes, but I can't go back there." In response to the encouragement of my lifted eyebrow, she continued, "By the way, do you happen to know what the fine is here in Cyrodiil for Necrophilia? Just asking."

"Necro-what? The term is unfamiliar to me." I narrowed my eyes. "Is it related to necromancy? I’ve lost several guild mates to the foul black robes and been attacked by them myself." I felt magicka beginning to build in my right hand. "I warn you, I offer them neither warning nor quarter. As far as I'm concerned, the only good necromancer is a dead one." Although she wasn't wearing black robes, it was not lost on me that her brocade gown, although trimmed in gold, was black in color.

Her red eyes opened wide and she held up both hands disarmingly. "Oh, it's nothing like that, and I assure you that I prefer dead ones too. Are you with the guild of mages then? If so, I offer a significant discount."

"Yes I am," I replied as the glow in my hand dissipated. I had just threatened this respected merchant in anger, yet now - only a moment later - I was blinking back tears of shame because of my overreaction.

"What can I help you with this afternoon, Buffy?"

"I'm hoping very much that you have some ingredients I need." I rummaged through my pack until I found a small note adorned by the quill strokes of Boderi Farano. She had written it upon finding me curled up in pain and unwilling to get out of bed one morning at the University. I read the words to Falanu, "Ginger, chamomile, primrose and cinnamon."

She nodded with a sympathetic smile. "That's an excellent recipe to soothe menstrual cramps." While searching the myriad containers behind her, she continued, "At least we elves don't have to deal with that every single month. No wonder humans can breed like rabbits. Even given our much longer life spans, we still can't keep up with them. Are you pretty regular?"

"Yes," I replied, "twice a year since I was eighteen. I can't believe humans come of age so much earlier than elves. My friend Delphine Jend told me she started when she was but fourteen!"

"And they don't seem to have as much trouble getting pregnant as we do either," Falanu said. "You can't swing a dead Khajiit by the tail in Cyrodiil without hitting a round ear. No wonder they run the Empire now. Oh, I do have all those ingredients. I'd be happy to mix them up for you into enough potions to last a few days. Only a small extra charge for that."

"Thank you, Falanu, that would be most kind of you. It. . . it seems I've done nothing but apologize all day; I hope you'll forgive my strong comments earlier."

"I understand, Buffy. I used to get pretty unpleasant twice a year myself, but I've gotten better over the last few decades."

I busied myself looking around at the oddities adorning the shelves and walls of her small shop while Falanu went to work with her alchemy equipment.

After a few minutes, she announced, "Here's the first potion. Drink it now."

I gratefully quaffed the spicy liquid down. "I'm sure this will help with the cramps. Once my flow actually starts, I'll regain a bit more control of my emotions."

The Dunmer continued to grind up ingredients and craft more of the potions. “Do you need any pads or sponges?” she asked. “I carry those too.”

I shook my head. "Nilawen - she runs the general store in Bravil - showed me how to use Abecean sea sponges a year or so ago and I have some with me. I’m sure I'll need one before tomorrow. I'm headed from here to a warm bath at the guild."

“Yes, that should help.” Falanu added a final potion to the small collection on her counter. “This should be more than enough. Take one in the morning and one at night."

After paying and thanking the alchemist, I stepped out of her shop onto the street, now lit by lanterns.

As I headed toward the guild, I looked forward to that warm bath. Nilawen had told me I was lucky that I could use the sponges. Apparently, some unmated young girls had trouble with them. She surmised that spending so much time riding Superian likely made things easier for me. Although I had to admit that straddling the fastest horse in Cyrodiil was not the gentlest thing on a girl's lower bits, the truth was buried in a memory that I had never shared.

Not with anyone.

I had only recently celebrated my sixteenth birthday. Stalking game, hunting and archery practice with Daenlin filled my carefree days back then. My evenings were often spent sneaking through the dark alleys of Bravil under the instruction of City Swimmer.

I hadn’t thought about boys much until Varon Vamori started taking a fancy to me. I was quite flustered by the fact that the handsome dark elf wanted to spend time with a skinny big-eared orphan like me. No one had ever written poetry for me before. His flowery words, the gentle way he touched my cheek and his protestations of affection quite swept me off my feet.

One evening after I said good night to City Swimmer, I was delighted to find Varon waiting for me outside as I returned home to Nilawen’s shop where I lived at the time. We went for a walk outside the city and soon found ourselves holding hands on the shore of Niben Bay. He kissed me and began unlacing the bodice of my dress. He said that if we mated it would seal our feelings for each other. When I confessed to him that I was not quite of breeding age yet, he didn’t belittle me or call me a child as I thought he might; rather, he told me he still wanted me. My answer was to nervously raise my arms as he lifted my dress over my head and dropped it on the ground.

He then lowered me to the soft grass under the stars and continued kissing me. As one of his hands roamed from my neck to my knees, the other fumbled with his own clothing until there was nothing but warmth between our skin. As his kisses and touching grew more insistent, it made me feel wanted and even proud that I was the cause. I tried to welcome his growing passion. When it hurt, I bit my lip but didn’t cry out – not even a whimper. Soon, it was over.

As we dressed I carefully watched his face in the moonlight, anxious for reassurance that he was pleased with me. He then walked me home. On the way, I clung to his arm and chattered excitedly about our future and such things as whether he liked the sound of Buffy Vamori. I told him that when I was older, I hoped I could give him a baby wood elf. Varon was strangely quiet though. I just figured perhaps it had been as big a step for him as for me.

When I sought him out the next day however, he was cool to me. I didn’t understand. As I tried to put my arms around his neck, he told me to stop acting like a child and that we were through. He left me with tears streaming down my face.

Before long, Varon Vamori was reciting the same poetry to Ardaline. I never spoke of it to her, nor City Swimmer, Nilawen, Daenlin or anyone else. I was concerned that Daenlin might harm Varon if he found out the dark elf had manipulated my affections. Even more though, I just wanted the memory of how naïve I had been to go away.

It was two years later, and at Kud-Ei’s request to recover Ardaline’s staff, that I next spoke to Varon Vamori. By then Acadian was traveling with me, but I never told him about what had happened between Varon and I. This time however, I was an associate mage with a charm spell and it was I who did the manipulating.

If there was a bright side, I supposed it was that when Fathis Aren tried the same Dunmeri charm on me after the University, I didn’t fall for it. I knew that most elves viewed mating differently than humans did. After all, given how hard it was for us to conceive, frequent coupling was almost expected of young she-elves to perpetuate mer on Nirn. But I was a half-breed. My body was Bosmer all right, but my mind and heart were half human. I wanted a man or mer that I could adore and share my life with. Was asking to have such feelings returned too much to hope for?

As the painful memory faded, I realized my feet had stopped in the middle of the narrow street in Skingrad. My gaze was on the flower garden that hosted the stone statue of King Rislav and his stallion, Corsair. Why were my emotions such a mess right before my period?

I heaved a sigh and continued toward the guild.

The approaching clip of steel boots on cobblestones from behind gave but scant warning. "Hold, citizen!" The voice was commanding but not threatening.

I spun around to find myself face-to-chest with a soldier. He wore the red and black surcoat of Skingrad over his mail. I looked up to see that the dark-eyed Imperial was nearly bald and had the olive skin of a Nibenean. Most notably, he bore the insignia of a Legion captain. Fortunately, I was intimidated enough to keep my big mouth - which had caused me so much trouble all day - closed.

"Forgive me if I frightened you, young lady. I'm Captain Dion. I understand your name is Buffy and that you've been asking around about Glarthir?"

I nodded. "Yes, I'm Buffy. Glarthir did proposition me for some mysterious task. I refused to hear his offer though, as I will be leaving for Kvatch in the morning."

"He's the town eccentric," the captain explained, "and mistakenly believes other citizens are out to cause him harm. So far, he has given us no reason to detain him, but he does bear watching. I appreciate your cooperation and urge you not to accept any offers from him." He studied my face for a moment, then added, "You mentioned Kvatch. I presume you're aware of the danger?"

I recalled Gladius Maro's response to the same question from me: There's a damn Oblivion Gate there!. Acutely aware of my verbal missteps all day, I settled for a more sedate answer. "Yes, I've been there. Do you have any word of how fares Captain Matius and his brave force of defenders?"

"No recent news from Kvatch itself," he said "but at the urging of Captain Draconis of Leyawiin, and with the support of Count Skingrad, I recently dispatched what guards we can spare to assist the effort up there. It seems several other cities have done the same. Why, just a few days ago, a soldier from Bravil passed through here with orders to Kvatch. Had a young woman with him. If I may ask, what draws you to that besieged city?"

What indeed? Doubts and tears threatened from just beneath the surface. Fears of a broken heart, flashing clannfear teeth and flames swirled through this emotionally charged elf. From the bubbling cauldron of my hopes, angst and dreams, there slowly rose an image. It coalesced into the man with the heart of a lion waiting for. . . me. “It’s where I belong.”

[haute ecole rider]

Aha! So Julian and Buffy have something in common! Besides being a sucker for a man in uniform, that is.

You did a very good job with Buffy's PMS-related mood swings. Yes, it does affect some women more than others (I'm one of the lucky ones, I suppose, or maybe it's just because I'm crabby all the time?).

Studies have shown that women who live in college dorms do tend to cycle close together. I know that my roommates and I ended up cycling at the same time by Christmas, through all four years of college. Something to do with the pheromones we give off as our hormone levels change. It's all done on a subconscious level.

And I'm not surprised that Buffy kept her encounter with Varon Vamori secret - it's not exactly something you want everyone in town to hear about. And it certainly goes a long way toward explaining her hesitation whenever the subject of Savlian comes up. I'm glad that our paladin is riding with Buffy now, and can coax her onto the dance floor!

[SubRosa]

A nice discussion with a respected merchant of Skingrad. Well, at the least the parts that Buffy was not talking were nice! Oh, I'm just kidding. Once she settled down all went well with the menstrual discourse. Lots of world-building there.

You can't swing a dead Khajiit by the tail in Cyrodiil without hitting a round ear.
I loved this ES version of an old phrase!

rather, he told me he still wanted me
Even more do doubt, as it means no child support in 9 months!

Seriously, it was a good little scene of Buffy's first time with the smooth-talking Vamori. You portrayed him excellently. I can just see him pushing all the right buttons to get into Buffy's drawers. Then predictably, he made himself scarce once the deed was done, and moved on to the next young elf girl.

until there was nothing but warmth between our skin
Another excellent phrase.

And it is Caption Dion (I wonder if he is any relation to Celine?). I am glad that I am not the only one startled by his sudden appearances. He always seems to leap out of nowhere and shout at you. He once did it to me when I was sleeping!

“It’s where I belong.”
Indeed it is.

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Sep 18 2011, 09:26 PM

[mALX]

I assure you that I prefer dead ones too.

She wasn't lying there, lol. Really nice ending, Acadian !! On Dion - for the very first time in any of my games, Dion popped in on Maxical while she was sleeping in the upper Skingrad house - scared the living H out of me !! Lol, Great Chapter !!!

[ghastley]

...a soldier from Bravil passed through here with orders to Kvatch. Had a young woman with him.

So Buffy's advice was taken? I suspect he might get over-protective again when they get closer.

[The_Lost_King]

Well that is one big secret . Its cruel when men fill a womens heart with love and then crush it. I could not imagine how they could live with themselves .

[Grits]

The copper color of her hair no doubt came from one of her potion bottles and - oh, Buffy, stop it! I hated myself when I was like this.

This made me smile. At least it’s only twice a year.

I felt magicka beginning to build in my right hand. "I warn you, I offer them neither warning nor quarter. As far as I'm concerned, the only good necromancer is a dead one."

Falanu picked the wrong day to wear a black brocade gown!! What an absolute delight to see Buffy put her on the defensive, since Falanu has stunned so many folks with her surprise question! And how very Buffy that the unfamiliar term is just familiar enough for a hilarious misunderstanding.

"Oh, it's nothing like that, and I assure you that I prefer dead ones too.




I like the biannual elven cycle that Buffy and Teresa (and Lildereth) share. It seems that the lunar cycles don’t quite sync with the Tamrielic calendar, at least not in any way I could make work with the Khajiit Lunar Lattice. Abiene remarked that her time of the moons occurs about every two months. It’s good to be an elf!

I’m not at all surprised that Buffy kept the memory of her first time with Varon Vamori to herself, especially since the aftermath was humiliating. After all, it’s a very private experience and not a subject that comes up readily in sober conversation.


Why, just a few days ago, a soldier from Bravil passed through here with orders to Kvatch. Had a young woman with him.

Gladius and his alchemist bride-to-be! Yay, Sigrid will be happy to see her!

From the bubbling cauldron of my hopes, angst and dreams, there slowly rose an image. It coalesced into the man with the heart of a lion waiting for. . . me. “It’s where I belong.”

Beautiful!

[MyCat]

I'm now thinking that when Aramir needs a bow to replace her enchanted bow "Earana" she might consider a new "Varon Vamori"

OT: Did you see my post in Buffy's potpourri?

[King Coin]

Lol Falanu asks the question. First time I heard her say that I couldn’t help but sputter.
"I warn you, I offer them neither warning nor quarter.
A warning of no warning?
Whoa. Quite a surprise. I didn’t expect that at all. Poor Buffy!
“It’s where I belong.”
Good Ending.
You weren’t kidding when you spent last night teasing me about this chapter. Great Job.

[Destri Melarg]

I just loved the complexity of this chapter! It would be all too easy to paint Vamori as the villain, given his decision to take advantage of a young girl’s affections. But, like Buffy, we must remember that elven morality does not mirror human morality. What we see as reprehensible behavior was only a roll in the grass to elf-kind. Buffy’s desire to make future plans with her new love and her reticence to speak of the affair to anyone after the fact all derive from the human side of her DNA. Time and distance from the pain of rejection have given her the perspective to acknowledge that.

His flowery words, the gentle way he touched my cheek and his protestations of affection quite swept me off my feet.

This is an interesting choice of word here. Protestation gives the impression that he was dragged kicking and screaming to announce his feelings toward Buffy. But then why would he bother with flowery words or gentle cheek touching? One could also take it to mean that Buffy wasn’t really buying the act he was playing for her benefit. But she denies this by saying that he swept her off her feet (not to mention what happens afterward). I would have expected an expert in speechcraft to ‘declare’, 'announce', or ‘proclaim’ his feelings toward another, but then I realized that this is Buffy recounting actions made toward her. I don’t think you should change it; I just wanted to point out that the choice of word fit the tone of the chapter and has me thinking that Buffy’s recollection is still tinged by the shadow of bitterness, thanks to the time of year and her half human blood.

This post has been edited by Destri Melarg: Sep 20 2011, 08:37 PM

[Acadian]

Previously: After some sparks of misunderstanding with Falanu Hlaalu, the two elves discussed elven fertility and Buffy obtained the alchemical relief she sought. Already overemotional as she left Falanu’s shop, thoughts about the mechanics of dealing with her approaching period were the likely cause of a painful memory that surfaced. Finally, an encounter with Skingrad’s guard commander returned the elf’s swirling focus to her self-appointed quest.

Rider- Thank you. Yes, both Julian and Buffy experienced dashed hopes their first time. That is why you and I hope both women will return to the floor when the time and dance partner is right for them.

SubRosa- I’m glad that you and I have discussed elven fertility in the past, for I believe our ideas have reinforced each other to enhance both TF and BF. I appreciate your endorsement of how we portrayed Buffy’s time with Varon and his manipulation of the young elf with stars in her eyes. It was a relief to have her ruminations interrupted by Captain Dion!

mALX- Thank you (and Grits) for confirming that Falanu’s comment sharing Buffy’s preference for dead ones struck its intended humorous chord while soaring over Buffy’s head. I’m glad that Captain Dion’s appearance reminded you of the uncanny way he surprises us in the game.

ghastley- Thanks for noting that Buffy’s advice to Gladius seems to have born fruit!

The Lost King- It was both painful and vulnerable for Buffy to share her secret with us. Thank you so much for your kind words of support to her.

Grits- As odd as it sounds, I’m so glad that our efforts to have Buffy seem uncharacteristically b!tchy caused a smile. I expect SubRosa is as honored as I to hear that you find the elven biannual cycle worthy enough to incorporate into Jerric’s story via Lildereth. Thank you also for noting our reference to Gladius and Pelena, as well as your warm endorsement of how we ended the episode on a note of optimistic hope.

MyCat- I’m so humbled that Aramir named her bow ‘Earana’ and equally so that she might name its successor ‘Varon Vamori’. I surely did see that magnificent carrier deck shot you provided on Buffy’s potpourri thread featuring Buffy, Acadian and Phantom! Thank you so much!

KC- We couldn’t ignore Falanu’s infamous question of course and tried hard to factor in Buffy’s background and current emotional state in crafting that scene. Thank you for your kind words on the episode. They mean a great deal.

Destri- I so thank you for choosing to use the word complexity. I agree on the large number of moving pieces and currents in this past episode and you are just the master to draw them out. I particularly appreciate your recognition of the significance of Buffy being a half-breed; that, combined with her being an orphan and ‘buckskin-wearing mage with a bow’, helps explain her search to fit in and belong somewhere - even though she is routinely surrounded by those who care for her. I also enjoyed your thoughtful comments on my use of ‘protestations’ vs ‘proclamations’ which gave me much food for thought. I took your advice and did not change it, agreeing with you that it implies the current Buffy is thinking about her past after earning a slightly wiser perspective.

* * *

131 Mmphlgl rgmphlf glgdrmph Kvth

Superian stopped at the threshold of a stone bridge along the Gold Road. The ravine below had likely been carved by spring water originating in the Kvatch mountains to our northwest, augmented by seasonal rainfall.

Although the sun had been welcome on my back as we left Skingrad in the cool of morning, it had overtaken us some time ago and was now quite warm. The mare perked her ears and turned her head, nostrils fluttering. Although my elven senses could not detect what she did, I understood her perfectly. "Let's find that water, girl."

Screenshot

We turned to the south and, as Superian picked our way down the steep ravine, could soon hear the welcome sound of rushing water. Finally, we encountered the small stream. Its precious bounty was crystal clear as it danced and splashed over the rocks that failed to interrupt its flow south to the Strid River. I dismounted and joined Superian in drinking our fill. While I topped off a pair of waterskins, the mare enjoyed tender grass that grew abundantly on the banks of the stream.

The inviting water made my clothes fall off (of course) and I took the opportunity to scrub them. With that task complete, I figured I could use a bath as well.

Lifting one hand, I released a resist frost spell above my head and allowed it to settle over me before wading into the cold stream to wash myself. I removed the sea sponge to clean it as well, but it slipped from my fingers and the stream quickly carried it away. Oh well, I had more. My flow had started the night before and, if like the few other times I had experienced it since coming of age, would last only about three days. At least my emotions were much more under control now and the potions helped ease the cramping quite a bit.

I climbed out of the water and fished another sponge from my pack. After a couple tries, I managed to get it in place. Using one of the new spells Borissean had taught me, I summoned a linen towel to dry myself. Once done, I dropped it on the ground, knowing a puff of yellowish vapor would claim it shortly.

As I looked at my wet clothes piled on the bank, I remembered Thernd's lesson on drying horse manure. I leaned over and touched a glowing hand to the garments until they were frozen solid. I then stepped back and dispelled the magical ice. The delightful result was dry greaves, blouse and boots. Smiling, I quickly dressed.

"I feel so much better now," I said to my mare and paladin. Having come down the eastern slope of the ravine, I carefully led Superian up the equally steep western side. We soon found ourselves on a small plateau with a breathtaking view. I looked toward the Gold Coast and, under a late afternoon sun, could see alternating ridgelines and ravines running from north to south as the vegetation gradually turned from green to gold in the distance.

To the south and far below us, the sun glinted off the wide Strid River. Beyond, rose the emerald mountains and tall trees of Valenwood. I pulled my eyes from the distant forests and unrolled my map. Once I determined our exact location, I announced, "We'll camp here tonight."

After stripping Superian of her tack, I groomed the mare and carefully inspected each hoof after our climb down then up the steep and rocky ravine. I then worked saddle soap into our bridle, buckskins, saddle and boots.

Quite a large branch had fallen at one time and now rested on the ground nearby - a veritable forest of dry firewood. I summoned an axe and managed to chop and break up a nice pile. Grabbing Slayer and my quiver, I then set out to scout for hazards around the campsite and hunt for dinner.

By the time stars twinkled above, I was feasting on roasted rabbit in front of a cheerful fire.

After my meal, I drank one of Falanu’s cramping potions then stood to practice spells for a time. Remembering Boderi's advice, I lowered myself to one knee. After a couple failed attempts, I successfully summoned my elven dagger - and emitted an excited squeal that brought a curious look from my mare. "I've never been able to do that before! Aren't you proud of me?"

Superian nickered affectionately and flicked an ear, which I chose to interpret as approval.

Placing my other knee on the ground as well, I attempted to cast the spell again. I couldn't even get the magicka to my hand. Frowning, I moved my feet and knees around and tried - unsuccessfully - several more times. I remembered Fathis Aren effortlessly making sparks dance at his fingertips while seated. Surely I could learn how to cast spells while kneeling; Boderi believed I could. Focus, Buffy, and maybe try a spell you’re well-skilled at.

With both knees still on the ground and toes pointed into the dirt, I lifted my fist with all the determination I could muster. White magic began to flow through my right shoulder and along my arm. This time it continued until filling my hand. As my fingers opened, the soothing glow of healing magic cascaded over me, bringing a very big grin to my face. "Thank you, Boderi."

I was a happy elf as I spread my bedroll beneath the stars.

Digging into my pack I pulled out a small brush and doeskin pouch. An elf's teeth could last a thousand years, but my mother had impressed upon me as a child the importance of not taking them for granted. I hadn't paid much attention until the first time I saw Cosmus the Cheat give me a big grin. From that time on, I was always very conscientious at cleaning my teeth. I had used a small flayed stick from an orange tree, but later came to prefer the bone brushes sold by Nilawen that were equipped with one row of bristles. Daenlin was well aware of my diligence; one day he turned his fletching skill to teaching me how to make my own brush for teeth cleaning - like the one I had just pulled from my pack. The handle was bamboo. One end had been split three times and each slot carefully fitted with boar bristles. The end had then been notched and tightly laced with fine silk thread to hold the bristles in place before they had been carefully trimmed to the same length.

I reached for the doeskin pouch which contained teeth cleaning powder. Fortunately, I had ground up a new batch the evening prior at the guild. The higher quality alchemy equipment that I preferred was quite complex. After having broken several of the fragile devices on the road, I no longer carried them with me. Rather, I relied on using guild facilities. The teeth cleaning powder was a simple recipe that Ardaline had showed me. The most important ingredient was dried iris flowers, well known for their magical teeth cleaning properties. Then salt to aid with cleaning and provide some coarseness. A pinch of glow dust helped with whitening and sparkle. Finally, some dried mint leaves ensured a nice taste and fresh breath.

I rubbed a pinch of the powder over my teeth. After drizzling some water onto my brush, I popped the end of it into my mouth and went to work. While brushing, I chatted to my paladin and mare about our plans, "Mmphlgl rgmphlf glgdrmph Kvth."

"I'm quite sure you don't expect me to understand that," replied Acadian.

[ghastley]

I like all this mundane use of spells. Resist Frost for bathing in cold water, "Summon Towel" etc. It makes the world much more magical in general.

I'd worry a bit about her freeze-drying her clothes, though. IRL freeze-drying is used mainly for disposable items (like "instant" foods) so it made perfect sense for turning dung into fuel. But it has the side-effect of disintegrating the target slightly, like repeated freezing and thawing does to rocks. If she keeps doing this it won't just be water that makes her clothes fall off. They'll crumble on their own.

I then set out to scout for hazards around the campsite and hunt for dinner. By the time stars twinkled above, I was feasting on roasted rabbit in front of a cheerful fire.


Was that a fearsome Battle Bunny, or one of the regular kind?

[SubRosa]

I just remembered, its Friday, that means Buffy!

First off, I love the title!

Its precious bounty was crystal clear
A wonderful description of water. Buffy's musings on the origins of the ravine, and Superian's suggestion that they go have a drink, were excellent. Naturally Buffy's clothes fell off!

And I see Buffy is continuing her practice on summoning every day items, like her towel. As I was mentioning to mirocu on the other forum a few days ago, that works very well with Plato's belief in a realm of forms, where the true, ideal form of everything exists. Sort of like a cosmic database. Everything here on Earth is just a shadow of those ideal forms. So it stands to reason that one could magicka to empower one of those forms, and thusly cause it to take on reality here.

Some more world building too I see, with the Buffster's practice of magicka while sitting. Likewise with the odds and ends of brushing one's teeth. How delightfully perfect that Daenlin would instruct his young padawan in the art of fletching her own toothbrush!

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Sep 24 2011, 05:56 PM

[mALX]

An elf's teeth could last a thousand years, but my mother had impressed upon me as a child the importance of not taking them for granted. I hadn't paid much attention until the first time I saw Cosmus the Cheat give me a big grin. From that time on, I was always very conscientious at cleaning my teeth.

ROFL !!!

Loved the worldbuilding descriptions and details into how a mage accomplishes the various accomodations we modern-folk take for granted !! Lol, the summoned towel was my favorite !! Awesome Write !!!

*

This post has been edited by mALX: Sep 23 2011, 08:20 PM

[Grits]

A screenshot with Superian is always a delight. That looks like a lovely, sunny day for the inevitable result of Buffy hearing a waterfall. Although her resist frost spell could turn every pool into a hot tub. Buffy’s summoning a towel along with SubRosa's remarks have made me think hard about enriching my ideas of summoning and conjuration. So inspiring!


By the time stars twinkled above, I was feasting on roasted rabbit in front of a cheerful fire.

I love this warm, simple image. How beautifully put.


An elf's teeth could last a thousand years, but my mother had impressed upon me as a child the importance of not taking them for granted.

As they say, you should only floss the ones you want to keep. How clever of Buffy to make her own toothbrushes and tooth powder. I love these glimpses into the rich world she lives in. Even tooth brushing is magical.


"I'm quite sure you don't expect me to understand that," replied Acadian.

Always a pleasure to hear from Acadian.

[King Coin]

This was a nice short episode. Buffy’s taking some time to just enjoy the little things before the Battle for Kvatch. Once she gets there, her life will be very different I expect. I feel like this is the calm before the storm.
The area Buffy is in now is one of my favorites in the game. That stretch of road is very nice.

[Zalphon]

I love the chapter name after the " * * * "

[Acadian]

During Episode 131, Buffy and Superian found a stream near the Gold Road east of Kvatch. After enjoying some cool water, they climbed to the top of a small plateau overlooking Valenwood and prepared camp for the night. Buffy made solid progress learning how to cast spells while kneeling. She also explained that since the higher quality alchemy equipment she prefers to use is so fragile, she now relies on using guild facilities instead of carrying it with her. Finally, she started to reveal her plans for the next morning while brushing her teeth.

ghastley- I’m so glad you join me in liking the mundane use of spells. Oh noes! I hope Buffy’s magic for drying things works better than boring old earth physics. Otherwise, she’ll have to go shopping for more outfits. . . oh wait. . . maybe that would not be so bad.

SubRosa- Thank you! Buffy’s pack is getting a little lighter since she learned how to summon a few simple everyday things. She finally learned how to cast a spell while kneeling! I’m pretty sure that’s as far as she’ll ever progress through her positional limitations. I don’t think she’ll ever be able to cast while actually sitting, riding or lying down. As I researched ancient toothbrushes/toothpastes, I was struck by the notion that fletching an arrow tail and a toothbrush might fit right into Daenlin’s skillset.

maLX- I’m so glad you liked Buffy’s pause here as she shared some details of her everyday ablutions and personal chores with us - and how a touch of magic weaves into some of that. Thank you!

Grits- Thank you for those kind words! I so appreciate that you didn’t mind us taking a couple paragraphs to have Buffy tell you all about how she cleans her teeth.

KC- Thank you. Both this past and the next episode allow some shared quiet time for Buffy, her mare and paladin for reflection before they enter the bustle and lack of privacy of what will be an expanded Kvatch encampment.

Zalphon- Thanks for liking the eloquent way Buffy named the past episode.

* * *

132 Through the Fire

Of course he couldn’t understand what I was saying. I finished cleaning my teeth and rinsed my mouth. "I'm sorry, Acadian. I said, we'll leave by sunrise and try to get a deer. I think we can make Kvatch by mid morning and I want to show up with a contribution for the stewpot." As I peeled off my clothes under the stars, my mind drifted to the day's earlier breathtaking view of the Strid River and beyond. I said dreamily, "Someday we'll go to Valenwood."

"First, we have to survive the flames of Oblivion," the paladin replied. For a fleeting moment, I thought I detected a trace of fear in his voice. Just as quickly, I dismissed it as unlikely.

Heaving a sigh, I gently said, "You sure know how to spoil even a brief distraction, don't you?" I crawled into my awaiting bedroll. "Good night, my paladin."

"Good night, Buffy."

"Good night, Superian."

The mare inhaled deeply then comfortably sighed.

A dark shape interrupted the twin moons' light to cast a shadow as it glided over the snow. Approaching the campfires of a small village, flames erupted from the low flying shadow’s author to streak across the ground. Huts burned and tiny figures ran like insects. The attacker slowly circled, no doubt preparing to launch another blast of fire.

From high above the horrifying scene, Phantom opened her maw and spewed a burst of blue magic toward the snow and flames below. The icy blast unerringly closed the range, adjusting course to intercept its target. Upon impact, the interloper’s wings literally froze in place and the beast plowed a long furrow into the snow. The villagers swarmed to attack the downed fire dragon and its rider.

A burst of flame suddenly streaked close beneath us. Although the fire blast was much faster than Phantom's ice attack, it displayed no ability to detect the ice dragon's cool aura or change course once launched. Even as Acadian's helmet snapped toward the source of the fire, Phantom turned her massive head and spit blue magic at the pink glowing origin of the attack.

Our rapidly closing foe deftly reversed course.

Phantom tucked her left wing and rolled toward our enemy to give chase. My legs tightened around her neck as did my arms around the waist of the paladin in front of me. I pressed myself against the back plate of his armor as he leaned forward. Although the smaller fire dragon could outrun the ice blast, no foe could match the intercept speed of Phantom. Indeed, she quickly accelerated past her own freezing burst of magic as we hurtled after the fleeing dragon.

Approaching her prey, Phantom rotated both rear legs forward while smoothly adjusting her wings, neck and tail to compensate. The dragons flown by the Ra Gada could not survive a high speed talon strike from the massive Nordic ice dragon.

Our target’s rider glanced over one shoulder just in time to give warning. The red dragon snapped left into a hard descending turn causing Phantom's talons to strike only air.

The ice dragon couldn't match the maneuverability of her smaller opponent and didn't try. As Acadian urged her into a sweeping turn and scanned to reacquire our target, three pink glows suddenly appeared on the horizon and were closing quickly. Their size and shape were unmistakable. A glance toward the ground confirmed that our fleeing foe, bolstered by the appearance of allies, had turned to rejoin the fight.

Phantom belched another freezing burst of magic toward the closest target.

Four streams of fire promptly answered.

With a word from Acadian, the ice dragon lifted her massive head toward the twin moons; her sleek neck, body and tail followed. Mighty blue gray wings propelled us straight up. I glanced over my shoulder to see one of our foes tumbling Nirnward – its wings frozen by Phantom’s ice blast. Upward we sped, even as flames began to engulf us.

I awoke with a start.

Both hands flew over my arms and legs checking for burns. The only source of fire was the flickering embers that had cooked my dinner. Superian stood calmly nearby, her coat glimmering softly under the combined light of moons and stars above. We were still safely at our campsite just south of the Gold Road. "Acadian," I said breathlessly, "that wasn't my dream; it was yours. Yet. . . I was there, and somehow understood things that only you and Phantom could know."

"I'm sorry, Buffy," replied the paladin. "Just as I experience your dreams, it seems that that sometimes I can't keep mine from you and our thoughts can become entangled. That memory is centuries old and I don't know what caused it to surface. Sometimes Phantom and I. . . relive things best forgotten."

"I don't mind," I replied soberly. "I know you need me to survive, and my body is a willing vessel that I share with you and Phantom. It never occurred to me that my paladin could be afraid of anything, but. . . of course you are. I realize now that you not only fear fire, but I can understand why. Your dream was breathtaking - and terrifying." After a moment, I added, "I bet I know what brought it on. We are headed to a place of fire. Is that aerial battle where you and Phantom. . . died?"

"No. Her speed saved us that night, but we were indeed later brought down by flame. It was never my intent to burden you with the concerns of an old paladin and his dragon. I feel sometimes we are much more trouble than we are worth."

"We're a team," I said. "You and Phantom flow and intertwine within every part of me. I-I can’t imagine my life without you. You led me to my magic bag and my dancing cobra. It was your words that helped bring me back from the brink of the Dark Brotherhood; yet you would have willingly accompanied me over that cliff had I not stepped back. You realized long before I did that my fascination with Daedra Lords was not for trinketry, but a search for the knowledge to close that Oblivion Gate for Savlian Matius. Your unobtrusive wisdom has helped me countless times, yet you unconditionally accept me when I fall short – as I did at Borderwatch and on countless other occasions. I'm gifted as a spiritual healer because of you, Acadian. I may have been born a butterfly, but the spirit of a dragon now courses through me.”

I added a couple small pieces of wood to the embers then used a third to stir the small campfire to life. As sparks jumped skyward, I said, “Let's sit up under the stars for a time. I can still feel that you're troubled. Would you like me to sing to you?"

"I'd like that. And I expect our mare and dragon would as well."

I thought for a moment. "Acadian, we've seen much violence and bloodshed in our travels, and more is likely ahead. I will open my mind fully to you. Come into my thoughts now and let me comfort you with a more beautiful side of Cyrodiil." I began to sing a song that Mother taught me when I was no taller than Nilawen’s countertop.

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