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

[Acadian]

Welcome to Thread 5 - the fifth and final season of Buffy's Book 1!

This book began with Buffy being imprisoned in the Imperial City, and will end as she attempts to bring freedom to the city of Kvatch. It is a sprawling story that will require more than 150 episodes, spread over five threads. Appropriately, I have nicknamed Book 1, 'Do You Know the Way to Kvatch?'

Thread 1 included Episodes 1-26.

Thread 2 began with a brief recap of thread one, then included Episodes 27-56.

Thread 3 began with a brief recap of thread two, then included Episodes 57-84.

Thread 4 began with a brief recap of thread three, then included Episodes 85-122.

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Please allow me to offer a small summary of our previous thread that I hope might prove useful as a review, or for those who are joining us in progress:

Thread four consisted entirely of a massive storyline called The Tournament of Archers. Buffy spent nine days in Bravil as she awaited word from the Council of Mages as to whether they would approve assistance for Kvatch. She used the time to catch up with old friends, make new ones, solve a mystery, right a wrong and compete in the annual tournament to decide the champion archer of Cyrodiil.

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Now, for those newer readers who would like to catch up to us in one short sitting, you might find this helpful: Buffy – The Executive Summary Thread.

*

We now join Buffy as she arrives at the Arcane University to learn if her guild is willing to provide some aid for the besieged city of Kvatch. Buffy has vowed to help Savlian Matius free his burning city or die in the attempt. She will deliver on her promise in this thread.

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123 Little Elves in the Big City

"Good afternoon. Can I help you?" The question came from a young-looking wood elf seated behind a desk in the administrative office of the University.

I found myself staring at the lavender hair spilling over green fabric that draped her shoulders. The striking locks framed a face dominated by large eyes that were deep violet in color. She had a small nose and her mouth (like my own) was too wide. "My name's Buffy and I'm hoping you have a bed available for couple nights?"

"I'm called Malin." The elf rose to her feet to reveal she was no taller than I and that her robe had been tailored to fit more like a dress than a bag. She offered a hand across the desk as we appraised each other and said, "It's not often I meet someone as short as I. Oh, I'm a student here working part time in the offices to help pay my way."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Malin." Smiling, I released her hand. "Yes, it's quite refreshing to speak with someone eye-to-eye for a change."

Her fingers sought a nearby drawer and deftly traveled over the files within. "Hmm, Baeralorn, Boderi Farano, Bothiel, Borrissean . . . here it is - Buffy." She placed what I presumed to be my folder on the desk and opened it. "I see you're a graduate holding the rank of Apprentice. I'm sorry, but I can only put Journeymen or higher into staff apartments. If you don't mind staying in the student boarding area though, we certainly have a bed for you to use." Turning to a cupboard behind her, she produced a blanket. "It's been getting cool at night so you'll probably want this."

Accepting the blanket, I said, "Thank you, any bed will be fine. I have business with Raminus Polus after the next Council of Mages meeting. Can you tell me when it's scheduled?"

"That meeting was this morning." Still on her feet, Malin leaned over an open journal on her desk and flipped through several pages. "The Headmaster has a very full schedule for the rest of today." Her quill hovered over a page as she studied it, "Can I put you down to see him tomorrow morning?"

"That would be most helpful," I said, repressing a sigh at the delay.

"Consider it done." The elf dipped her quill into a pewter inkpot. After making an entry in the journal, she turned her attention back to my file. "Buffy, I see your annual guild fee is due next month. You can pay that at any branch or course, but while you're here, would you like to take care of it now?"

"Oh, that's a good idea," I replied, reaching for my coin purse. As I fished out the required gold, I realized how optimistic I was being. Considering that I was determined to go to Kvatch soon, would I even be alive in a month - much less a year?

She accepted my gold and applied her quill briefly to my file. "All set until Evening Star after next."

"You've been most kind, Malin," I remarked. "Tell me, how do like the University?"

"I love it," she replied. "I'm so glad to be free from living in trees."

"Really? You don't care for the forests?" I asked.

"Ugh, no! They're full of . . . nature. I was born in a treetop village north of Arenthia. All the women of my tribe are as small as you or I. Well, as soon as I was old enough, my shaman suggested I travel to the capital city of Elden Root and join the guild of mages there. It's not a big city like here, but at least most of the buildings are firmly on the ground. As soon I completed my recommendations from the various Valenwood guild branches, I headed straight for Woodhearth and swam out to the first ship headed from Anvil to The Imperial City. No more trees for this little city elf."

"What type of mage do you hope to become?" I asked.

"I'm a singer and a dancer," she declared. No doubt in response to my curious look, she continued, "Birds taught me to sing when I was young and, of course, learning how not to fall from high branches makes one pretty nimble. I'm studying illusion and destruction so I can create fancy light shows for dance productions. I want to be a famous entertainer one day."

"How wonderful!" I replied. "I love to sing, and my guild mates in Bravil tell me I have a pleasing voice for it." Remembering Acadian's advice about Savlian, I added, "Oh, and I hope to learn to dance someday."

Malin grinned, raised one arm gracefully and performed an elegant twirl. "Well then, we shall have to sing and perhaps dance together sometime. Oh, before you go, let me check to see if you have any messages." She looked through several boxes on the shelves behind her. "Here's a letter for you."

As I accepted the folded and sealed parchment, I said, "Thank you, Malin. It was wonderful meeting you. I'd best go settle in now and let you get back to work. I've had a long journey and am looking forward to spending some time this afternoon soaking in the University bath house."

I then made my way to the apartment of Boderi Farano, that I might pay a courtesy call on the Dunmer. There was no answer at her door. Asking around, I learned that she had been in meetings with the Council much of the morning and in the Headmaster's office all afternoon.

After finding my temporary quarters, I tugged off my boots and plopped onto the bed. I then examined the letter Malin had given me. The wax bore an imprint of what looked like a pair of crossed swords beneath a crown. I broke the seal.

Buffy,

You are a hard elf to track down. It was finally the recent Courier article about the Tournament of Archers that confirmed you are still alive and a member of the Guild of Mages. I made my way to the Arcane University as quickly as I could, where they confirmed your membership. I managed to speak to the headmaster there, who assured me that you were soon expected.

My name is Baurus and I hope you remember me. I was one of the Blades assigned to the Emperor when he was assassinated. It is urgent that I speak with you regarding his last words.

You have my assurance that nothing you may tell me will result in your arrest or confinement by either the Legion or the Blades.

While here in The Imperial City, I shall be staying in the Elven Gardens District. You may find me each evening in the tavern at Luther Broad's Boarding House. In case you do not clearly recall my appearance or recognize me without armor, I am a Redguard and will have the katana of a Blade within reach.

I beseech you in the name of Talos to grant my request. Again, I promise you safe passage after we meet regardless of what you may tell me.

In continuing service to the Emperor,

Baurus

I remembered the Blade named Baurus well, and his letter made me quite nervous that he might think I had something to do with the death of Jauffre. Yet, he had saved my life after the Emperor's assassin turned on me so long ago. He had also removed any record of my imprisonment and trusted me to complete the Emperor's task. What I mostly recalled about Baurus though was that the brave Redguard had been kind to me when he could have easily tossed me right back into a prison cell.

After much debate, some of it directed at Acadian during a long bath that afternoon, I decided to trust Baurus' word that he would not arrest me. In fact, I hoped he would believe my story and that I might be able to tell him something that could be of help to him.

I fretted over my clothes until finally stepping into a skirt of burgundy velvet. Its hem was trimmed in purple, just a shade darker than the blouse I dropped over my head. After strapping on some black sandals, I slipped into a black silk vest and laced it up. I pulled a brush through my hair several times, then tied a portion of it back with a ribbon. Figuring some credibility wouldn't hurt, I slid on my Leyawiin Court ring.

Once outside the University, I paused on the bridge leading to the city while I admired the breathtaking view down into the Valley of the Horses. Several animals grazed on the lush bounty below. A pair of imps hovered halfway up the canyon walls, diligently scanning their domain for wolves, lions and errant young horses. I couldn't see Superian and imagined she might be down by the western shoreline. Or, on second thought, perhaps she was under the bridge itself near the barn and pestering Thernd for some warm oat mash with molasses.

By the time my little legs carried me across much of The Imperial City, the sun had settled below the tall stone walls. Despite the delightful name, I had spent little time in the Elven Gardens section of the city. After asking a Legion soldier for directions, I found Luther Broad's Boarding House near the center of the district.

The tavern that comprised the ground floor of the inn seemed tasteful enough but not fancy - and it didn't smell of stale mead. I noted there was no welcoming fireplace which I pretty much required if I was going to enjoy a tavern. Behind the bar was a large balding Imperial wearing an attractive blue-green shirt. I presumed him to be Luther Broad. Oddly enough, a warhammer was slung over his shoulder which I figured was not a good sign. Nevertheless, the place seemed quite sedate.

Screenshot

As my eyes fully adjusted to the dim light, I noticed a Redguard eating dinner in one corner. A katana in its scabbard leaned against the wall by his knee. Realizing that I had never seen Baurus without his armor or helmet, I was grateful for the hints he had given me to aid in recognition.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Oct 28 2011, 10:20 PM

[mALX]

I can't say it as eloquently as it has already been said above. The eternal kinship between Acadian and Buffy will sustain her through this and future lifetimes. It is apropos that she returned to the place their love was consumated the first time, that she has some time out of the public eye to really grieve in her own way without interference and under the careful watchful eye of Acadian and Superian.

The reading of that journal entry was so Buffy, and the song beautiful and perfect for what Buffy is going through.

All that said, all I have left to say is this ... BWAAAAAAAAAAAAA !!!!!!!! Maxical and I will miss you Miss Buffy !!! Please come back soon !!!!

AWESOME Write, all 300,000 words plus, through the years and both forums - Buffy has shared a lot of herself and her memories with us in these chapters and we love her !!!!!

This post has been edited by mALX: Aug 4 2012, 07:37 AM

[haute ecole rider]

A fitting end to quite the wonderful journey. It is amazing to think how far our dear Buffy has come in her life. She has experienced both joy and heartbreaking tragedy. Though she feels very weak right now, there is a core of strength that keeps her going. How much of it is due to both Acadian (bless his immortal heart!) and Superian and how much of it is innate to our favorite dragonfly is not a point worth debating. What matters is that she is stronger now than she ever was.

All good things come to an end, and so, now, with great reluctance, I close this book. Wow.

[Darkness Eternal]

And so concludes this epic tale of perseverence, romance, emotion and thrills! By the way, I read your other chapter and commented.

Two years! . Goodness gracious, this IS a saga! A beautiful one, too!

So, we're off to Valenwood, huh. The native land of the Bosmer. A beautiful song following a final entry in the journal. I could say so much, but regretfully, I cannot until I have went back and read the entire tales and the summary you posted in the subforum . This truly was a beautiful ending to an epic story of love and hardships, and though it might had ended in a somewhat happy ending(Savlian is a memory), it fills the heart with hope that there will be some sort of respite for our heroic bowgirl.

My hat to you, Acadian. One of the great talented writers in these forums. For the shortime that I read the story, I was enjoying every bit of it and this is in all honesty. Beautiful conclusion to this tale, and may Buffy find the peace she needs, though by this chapter, it is obvious she indeed did.

[Zalphon]

All I can think of is: "Nothing stays gold, Ponyboy."

I'm going to miss this...

[Acadian]

In our concluding episode of Book 1, Buffy had returned to ‘Savlian’s meadow’ just across the Strid River in Valenwood. There, under the night sky, she finally came to terms with letting go of her hero. She also acknowledged that, bolstered by Acadian, Superian and her other friends and mentors, she would return to civilization – someday.

My intent with Book 1 was to write what I hope was a satisfying saga that could both stand alone as well as be suggestive of follow on books. Buffy and I need a break at this point to spend more time focused on our game while continuing to savor the stories of those who have graciously and reliably supported our efforts. While not committing to more books at this point, it is certainly a possibility as we tinker with some of the details of Buffy’s way ahead. The overall future of her world is clear to me and she endlessly creates story much faster than her humble scribe can keep up.

I have learned so much during this journey, thanks largely to help and support from each of you. Specifically, I will employ the following lessons to any future books:
1. Reduce the length of future books dramatically, to the neighborhood of 10-50 episodes. This packages storylines into more manageable ‘chunks’ that are easier to commit to. I confess to stealing this idea from SubRosa’s ‘chapters’ concept. For example, in the future, such things as ‘Child of Dawn’, ‘The Leyawiin Expedition’ or ‘Tournament of Archers’ would be their own book.
2. Complete the rough draft for a book before beginning to post it. This helps tie things together and enhances the ability to consistently weave themes and adjust throughout with the end more clearly in mind.

While we are resting, playing and thinking, I will archive this final thread of Book 1 to the Acadian Sub Forum here at Chorrol. I have updated our ‘Executive Summary’ thread there to reflect the end of Book 1. Also on our sub forum, I will try to share glimpses of Buffy’s life and our plans via her ‘Potpourri’ thread.

McBadgere- Thank you! The title, ‘I Will Remember’ was simply taken from Buffy’s last line of dialogue before her closing song. I so hope you will continue regaling us with evocative tales of the Knights of the Nine!

ghastley- Roasted crab under the stars. Heh, I guess Buffy does know how to grieve after all. Till she runs out of hair conditioner! Thanks, and warmest wishes as your fertile imagination continues to bring wonderful mods to Oblivion!

KC- Thank you. I’m so glad you agreed with Buffy’s choice to return to the Strid River for a time. Gosh, I’m so pleased you have begun to incorporate writing into your fantastic vids and screens. You do such a magnificent multimedia job of bringing Aravi, and now Kharjo, to life!

Grits- I appreciate your endorsement of Buffy not only echoing the passage from her journal, but metaphorically closing Book 1. You well know how we often lay bare the souls of our characters and hope they are well received. Your soothing words on my humble efforts have always been such a source of comfort. No wonder, given how your grace and wit allow you to bring your own characters so delightfully to life.

SubRosa- After selecting Enya to represent Buffy’s singing voice, I was so pleased to learn that you enjoy her music as much as I. During our saga, I have often relied on your steady and wise advice. I feel fortunate that the stories of our elves could gently intertwine on several occasions – most notably during our massive ‘Tournament of Archers’. You have been a pure joy to work with and a wonderful inspiration. I so hope Teresa’s saga has many years remaining; there are so many mysteries in Cyrodiil for her to uncover.

mALX- You beautifully summed up what I was trying to do in our last episode – thank you! You and I have both been stumbling along in this world of fan fiction like a pair of awestruck six years olds for several years now. Thank you for making this journey with me. I am so excited as Maxical is approaching her destiny!

Rider- Thank you so much! Buffy has indeed experienced an emotional roller coaster. I join you in believing in her inner strength though. Sadly, it seems there is some truth to the old adage, ‘That which does not kill you, makes you stronger.’ Warmest wishes for your health to get sorted out and, as things allow, I anxiously await more of OHDH. Julian’s long and hard-fought adventures have finally brought her to the brink of an empire's destiny! I so hope she someday gets to gaze peacefully at the Abecean sunset from her porch at Gweden Farm.

Darkness Eternal- Thank you. I know it's hard to ‘catch up’ with a long story in progress and I’m deeply humbled that you find Buffy worthy of your efforts. I wish the best for you as you continue with tales of those who thrive under the moons or in the bloody sands of the Arena.

Zalphon- Thank you. I’m delighted to see that you have started another tome in the Zalphon series!

All- Once again, I’m humbled by the warm support, my friends, and thank each of you very much! Buffy sends:

* * *

[Darkness Eternal]

Thanks! I appreciate it. It was a hell of a ride, Acadian. It is sad that we won't see more of Buffy's adventures for now, but we rest knowing she's out there doing her thing, and one day, just one day, she may return in a whole new tale of adventure. It was a fitting conclusion that she exiled herself to the wilderness to embrace her roots and go back to her ancenstral home. Maybe a short-story on her life in the jungles? I suppose I am asking too much.

[mALX]

I have to confess, when I saw this update in my email I jumped up excitedly, thinking you had an Epilogue for us, lol. Buffy is already missed, she will always be who I think of when I hear the words "Bowgirl" or "Mythic Archer." !!!!

This post has been edited by mALX: Aug 10 2012, 05:25 PM

[hazmick]

Just thought i'd stop by and say hello, and to let you know that i'm busy reading through Buffy's story again. I've been gone for so long that i've decided to start from the very beginning (not that it's a bad thing though)

[Doommeister]

You...you...you had Savlian die?? Noooooo not Savlian :'(

Unfortunately as soon as I read there was a daedroth in there, I knew this would happen. I feel for Buffy as she enters what is probably gonna be the worst time of her young life.

Good luck Buffy, and know that in your grief, there are friends who will support you.

...................edit..........
Ok finished reading now, and I am glad to see that you are healing, and that you are coming to terms with your loss.

Acadian, my hats off to you and I will patiently wait for a next book, if there is more.

This post has been edited by Doommeister: Aug 20 2012, 11:28 AM

[Captain Hammer]

Weeeeellllllll, how about that.

It has taken me a while to get caught up, and all I can say is "wow."

You've really taken Stephen King's advice to heart: "Kill Your Darlings."

It works. I know Savlian has to live for most of us, that we can follow the main story of Oblivion, but you've successfully handled how Buffy is not going to end up as Champion of the Order of the Dragon. Another knight of the White Stallion Black Mare just might, but that is clearly worth an entirely separate story.

And yet, no story ever truly starts, or ends, without touching another story. or hundred, along the way.

I know Buffy is done for a while. But I hope the "Buff-livion" Verse continues, with some of our favorite characters returning. Without any room for a Countess Kvatch in my story, I'm relying on you to make my dreams come true, Acadian.

[hazmick]

by Kynareth Acadian, never has a piece of literature made very emotional yet here I am, at 2AM, cradling a cup of tea and getting all misty eyed Buffy's adventure has been an absolute rollercoaster ride and I'm genuinely grateful to have been able to be here to read it.

I hope you and Buffy have a great time resting, relaxing and just generally having some time to think.

I would love to see Buffy in Skyrim though, perhaps exploring the home of the dragons with her old paladin? I know Haa-Rei would love to see her there Again, thank you, to you and your elf, for just being so darn great.

[Heather V]

This seems so exciting! Seeing as it seems there won't be an update for a while I can read from the beggining without worrying about catching up

Can't wait to start reading!

[TheBrume]

I've finally caught up, but now I'm disappointed that its over
I'm going to miss this. It was fun while it lasted.

[Winter Wolf]

What is this? The end of the Buffy stories. Awesome, my Aussie mate, to see that you vast work has reached a point where you are very content to take a break. I will now sit down and have a very enjoyable read!

Our lovely 'bonny lass' has taken many different forms over the past years, and she has always popped up when we never expected it. Who would have thought that she would make a name for herself in the small backwater province of Bravil? Incredible when you think about it....

Buffy is guided by her own moral compass and it (and it alone) will decide when she will make her next guest-star appearance. Will we never see her again?

To quote Acadian, 'Me thinks not!'

This post has been edited by Winter Wolf: Oct 9 2012, 09:23 AM