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> Buffy's Book of Short Stories, Somewhere in Time
Acadian
post Mar 26 2016, 11:04 PM
Post #1


Paladin
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Joined: 14-March 10
From: Las Vegas



Welcome to Buffy's book of short stories! Rather than another chronological saga, this will be a collection of independent (generally short) stories that freely span Buffy's long and ongoing adventuring career. She'll tell you a bit more about that choice of format in her prelude below. One feature of the format she has insisted on is that the stories are not directly linked, sequential or particularly interdependent. While I believe you will find them reasonably consistent with 'Buffy lore', I'm looking forward to what I hope will be quite a bit of freedom and flexibility. The format should also make it easy for any readers who join us in progress or return from an absence, to jump right in with the current story.

For those well-familiar with Buffy, I hope you will continue to enjoy the enigmatic elven mage as she presents selective peeks into her neverending adventures across Tamriel. It is easy for Buffy and I to become emotionally overwhelmed as we contemplate the kind, enthusiastic and encouraging support that many have graced us with over the years. And for that we are profoundly grateful. My fervent hope is that you continue to find our efforts worthy of your valuable time.

For those new to Buffy, please do not let her long history deter you from jumping right in and joining us. While her series of full books are available on the Acadian sub forum, their sheer size makes reading them a daunting prospect. Fortunately, our 'Executive Summary' thread on the same sub forum offers what I believe to be a very effective summary that can easily be read in one sitting per book.

Table of contents


- Hard Crowds and Dancing Whales (1 episode) – post #12
3rd Era. Buffy fills in for sick bard at at tavern in Anvil.

- Unfinished Business – Buffy and the Box (1 episode) – post #24
3rd Era. Buffy finally reports back to Sanguine after inflicting nakedness on the Courtess of Leyawiin and some of her party guests.

- [u]A Bard’s Tale[/u] (5 episodes) – posts #34-66
4th Era. Buffy receives some valuable bard training at the Bards College in Solitude.

- The Case of the Missing Court Mage (2 Episodes) – posts #76-85
4th Era. Buffy helps locate an absentminded and missing mage in the Riften area.

Prelude


"Acadian, I don't want to write about the Oblivion Crisis right now." Getting up from the desk, I climbed up atop the corner bookshelf and sat down. "I want to write about being ambushed in the Reach by a Thalmor patrol. Or my first encounter as a Slayer with the vampiric Count of Skingrad. Or how, after I managed to lose Azura's Star, we traveled through time to retrieve it. Or maybe about that time when-"

"Buffy," interrupted the paladin, "all those things can eventually be crafted into your larger, overarching plot such that they fit properly along your timeline."

I hopped to the floor. "No!" Both hands planted themselves on my hips as my chin lifted defiantly. "I want to write about those things when the passion moves me to do so, not wait until it 'fits' into some silly book that's so long and complicated we can never write it. Whenever I write something I want, you complain if it doesn't make 'perfect sense' or that it doesn't fit at this point in our 'chronology'. By the time most of the tales I want to share fit into your unmanageable plan, I've long lost the passion that motivated me to write about them!"

There was a long silence before Acadian dubiously remarked, "Are you proposing a book with neither plot nor timeline?"

"Exactly! I am not a plot. I am an elf who travels, adventures and explores - with you, of course." I spread my arms expansively and twirled all the way around once before seating myself on a corner of the desk. "What's hard to understand about that? And would you rather read a story that I wrote when passion moved me to do so, or one that I had to force myself to write in support of some silly timeline?" I softened my tone. "Look, Acadian, you and I can travel between worlds and even move through time together. Why do my stories have to be 'in order'? When a butterfly moves across a meadow visiting flowers, does she do so 'in order'?"

The old paladin chuckled. "Despite my years and experience, the ability to successfully argue with an impassioned woman continues to elude me. Your butterfly metaphor contains a simple logic that I cannot refute. I will never fully understand the. . . whimsy that drives your choices but, over the years, I have grown to at least appreciate it."

"Does that mean. . . ?"

"Yes," he replied. "You are the true source of our passion for writing. I shall constrain you with neither plot nor chronology considerations."

"Thank you, my paladin." I crossed my dangling legs, folded my hands in my lap and smiled. "I know that I can sometimes be a little, well, erratic or even elusive."

Acadian sighed. "Like a butterfly in a thunderstorm, my bowgirl."

"This will be fun!" I chirped.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Sep 4 2021, 12:42 AM


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Kazaera
post Apr 3 2016, 09:45 AM
Post #21


Finder
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Joined: 13-December 09
From: Germany



Poor Buffy, needing to contend against buxom Nords in order to keep her audience's attention! Her nervousness really shines through here, but she manages magnificently. And I love the way she summons her lute, and weaving illusion magic into her song - I've always really enjoyed it when a story gives us some of the mundane practical uses magic is put to in Tamriel, and Buffy has always managed that magnificently.

Now, I must say I'm deeply curious about Buffy managing to visit 3E Cyrodiil and 4E Skyrim at the same time - I figured Buffy-in-Skyrim had just lived through the intervening years, not actually time travelling! That sounds like an interesting story. Pleeaaase, Buffy? I'll bribe you with... *considers options* ...the umbrella/"Rainshield" spell from Adryn's world? I'm sure it can be extended to keep Superian dry as well!

I hear you about adaptation problems, by the way. I'm playing one character in Skyrim now who's originally from Morrowind, and she's not really sure how to view things like suddenly regenerating magicka despite her Atronach birthsign (and the fact that she had to hike out into the middle of nowhere to get her birthsign, grrr), the fact that Soultrap is now a Conjuration spell, or the sudden proliferation of constant effect enchantments!

(Also, thank you for the kind words about Adryn! embarrased.gif )

This post has been edited by Kazaera: Apr 3 2016, 09:46 AM


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Grits
post Apr 4 2016, 08:16 PM
Post #22


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From: The Gold Coast



Jerric and I enjoyed Buffys beautiful, magically multi-media song several times today. He loves it because of course Buffy wub.gif and also because it made him remember the dreams where he can fly. Im a sucker for Elven songbirds and penguin swimbirds. tongue.gif

I loved how Buffy won over the boisterous crowd just by being Buffy. Her adjustment to the Freya-sized bar stool was charming! happy.gif

I feel the struggle with working different game mechanics into one story where magic needs to be consistent. Jerric is campaigning to put an ESO spell into his Oblivion story. Its the one he calls Ignite Farts. (Not its real name.) As ever you and Buffy are an inspiration.


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Darkness Eternal
post Apr 4 2016, 09:50 PM
Post #23


Master
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From: Coldharbour



Great information on Buffy's world, Acadian and the changes that came with it. This is awesome.

QUOTE
This taverns goin ta blivion in a fertilizer cart!
Freya git sick from eatin yer leek soup?
That Nord wench cant sing but she sure do fill out the little dress she wears.
Did she fall over from bein top heavy and hurt herself?
Nah, she woulda bounced.


I laughed at this. Especially the last two. So Freya is absent, and in her place comes in Buffy the Bard. Has a nice ring to it. I can just picture the patrons making those comments. The way the words brought them to life was so amusing that I'm chuckling just as I write this laugh.gif

Buffy's introduction was just as accurate as any event where the show was given from some unexpected stranger. Buffy eased out of an awkward situation and slipped more into a better one as her confidence was found and the crowd was more receptive.

What a nice song!!


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And yet I am, and live—like vapours tossed.
I long for scenes where man hath never trod
A place where woman never smiled or wept
There to abide with my Creator, God,
And sleep as I in childhood sweetly slept,
Untroubling and untroubled where I lie
The grass below—above the vaulted sky.”
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Acadian
post Apr 8 2016, 02:04 PM
Post #24


Paladin
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Joined: 14-March 10
From: Las Vegas



mirocu- Thank you! Though it is SkyBuffy sharing her stories, many of them will be set comfortably in Lothrans 3rd Era.

hazmick- Fully embracing only one 'version' of Buffy who can time travel has actually freed us to write happily in 3rd Era settings if that makes sense. Thank you!

ghastley- Buffy has indeed been taking lessons from our favorite bard, Lisette. And how astute of you to point out why Buffy intentionally opted to delay summoning her lute until up on stage.

SubRosa- Freya the Weeble what a perfect name for the busty bard! Thank you for your kind words about Buffy incorporating illusionary visions into her music.

mALX- Aww, thanks! Im so glad you enjoyed the description of Buffys lute materializing, and agree with me that the music vid feels quite Skyrimesque.

Lopov- Thank you for those kind words and enjoying the magical appearance of Buffys lute. I wouldnt worry about Freya being able to follow Buffy she has a couple impressive talents of her own. whistling.gif

Kazaera- Thanks for noting how Buffys nervousness gradually transitioned to confidence I hoped that would come through well. Im going to ask your forgiveness and remain coy about Buffys time travel until we can tell that story in our fiction. I confess Im also still toying with about three possibilities and want to take some time to ponder which suits her best.

Grits- Thank you so much! Im thrilled that being Buffy still comes through after our lengthy sabbatical from fiction writing. While embracing SkyBuff keeps her gaming exclusively in Skyrim, Im delighted to have discovered that it also frees our fiction to write anytime/anywhere in Tamriel.

DE- Im so glad you enjoyed the rowdy taverners comments and Buffys song. And thanks for your kind words as Buffy muddled beyond her awkward opening moments on stage.

*

As Buffys short stories will range widely across Tamrielic time and provinces, I think it might be helpful to introduce each with mention of its setting. This next one-episode story finds Buffy in 3rd Era Cyrodiil, before she learned how to travel between Eras.

* * *

Unfinished Business Buffy and the Box

Sanguines shrine rivaled the surrounding trees in height. The chubby horned elf of gray stone with a tankard in one hand watched over his revelers. Two Bosmer and a Khajiit in various states of dress and sobriety paid little attention as I slipped from Superians saddle to the ground.

From my mage satchel I produced a flask of Cyrodiilic brandy, then approached the shrine.

You look familiar, slurred one of the Bosmer.

My name is Buffy and I was here a long time ago.

Recognition appeared in his eyes. Ah, yes. Buffet. I remember now. My Lord sent you to Leyawiin to loosen you up.

Stand aside, please. My business is with Lord Sanguine.

He frowned, but did move out of my way. Looks like my Lords goal to loosen you up failed. A shame, as you look like such a tasty little thing. He lecherously licked his lips then grinned.

I sighed and approached the Prince of Debauchery. After placing the flask at his feet, I addressed the shrine. Lord Sanguine. I successfully completed the task you asked for in Leyawiin some time ago. I ask that you return the red dress I was wearing when I cast your spell upon the Countess of Leyawiin and her guests.

From everywhere and nowhere, his sarcastic voice filled the air around me. The prodigal elf has returned, and successfully so it seems. Did you lose track of time?

I stifled my bristling anger. I was delayed, My Lord, by your colleague and his minions at Kvatch.

Dagon never would take my advice to lighten up. You could learn from that lesson, my tight-butted little elf. He laughed cheerfully, blunting some of the sting in his words. But no matter, for time means little to us immortals. You did a fine job in Leyawiin exposing that stuffy countess and her noble friends. I must say it was a stroke of genius how you made an excuse to slip out of the dining hall so no one saw you cast my spell. When you reappeared naked yourself, the guards assumed you were a victim too. I almost spit brandy when one of the oafs chivalrously covered you with his own surcoat! Ah, yes, you provided me quite the pleasant diversion that evening. Well done!

Im pleased the task was completed to your satisfaction, My Lord. The dress? You see I borrowed it from a-

Yes, yes, Im sure you did. I heard what seemed to be a bored yawn. Youll find your dress and whatever else you were wearing in the chest right behind you.

I turned around in time to see a flat-topped sea chest of dwemer construction grow from a cloud of magic. The gray container radiated a continuous dull blue glow. I saw no latches but, as I passed my hand over the top, the lid slid open. Sure enough, I found Delphine Jends burgundy and green silk dress inside none the worse for wear. I also found myself quite intrigued by the chest itself. I faced the shrine again. Thank you, My Lord.

See? he said. No harm and a good time was had by all. In appreciation, Ill even let you have one of my prized artifacts. Behold! Sanguines Rose!

The conjuration magic this time was right in front of me, where a thorned staff appeared. It was topped by what appeared to be a carved rose in early bloom. I stared at the artifact hovering before me. Another staff? Sheogorath and Vaermina had long ago given me staves as well which now sat gathering dust in the Arcane Universitys Mystic Archives.

Im sure youre bursting to know what it does! exclaimed Sanguine proudly.

Actually, I-

It briefly conjures a random daedra to help fight your foes! he interrupted.

Like the one that killed my Savlian, I thought grimly. Surely you must be reluctant to part with such a magnificent artifact, My Lord. Perhaps a more modest token might serve me just as well and allow you to retain your beautiful Rose?

You would dare bargain with a Daedra Lord? he boomed ominously.

I gulped.

You must have the stones of a minotaur hidden in those tight little greaves of yours. His laughter then filled the meadow. Very well, Ill hear your proposal.

I released the breath I just realized I'd been holding.

Emboldened by the fact that I was still an elf instead of an ash pile, I said, Perhaps Your Lordship would consider keeping his magnificent staff and, instead, gifting this humble elf with the magical chest holding my red dress. . . and one other small favor that Im sure is insignificant to one as powerful as yourself.

He replied, What a shame you are such prudish thing, for I can imagine countless uses for that silver tongue besides clever flattery. He laughed again. Ah, yes, the chest. . . tis but one of my tens of thousands of realms. A tiny realm, yes, but notably larger inside than it appears. Im intrigued. Continue.

In addition to the ability of summoning this magical chest, I would ask for the lifting from my spellbook of your magic that rather traumatically removes clothing.

I agree with your requests, he said, subject to two. . . minor conditions of my own.

The first condition? I asked nervously.

A simple thing, really. Join me for a friendly little drinking contest. It doesnt have to be soon. As Ive said, time is rather meaningless to a Daedric Prince. Shall I call for you in, say, two hundred years or so? Perhaps you will have loosened up some by then.

I was mystified by his nonsensical request. . . but could see neither harm nor any real chance of it ever happening. Agreed. And your second condition, My Lord?

Not that Im a perverted voyeur, mind you. . . well, actually I am, but If you cast that Lets Get Naked spell right here and now for me, I will then remove it from your repertoire of magicks and gift you with a spell to conjure the chest you desire. He chuckled. I assure you that Im referring the blue dwemer box behind you, not the modest contents of your blouse.

And I assure you, Lord Sanguine, that Nordic breasts would hinder more than help this small-framed archer and equestrienne.

So you do have a sense of humor, after all!" he boomed jovially. "Well, will you humor me and display your wares in exchange for the dwemer box?

Agreed, My Lord.

Splendid! The staff in front of me evaporated into a small puff of magic. I looked behind me to see that the magical chest had vanished as well. Well talk about the staff again perhaps during our date in a couple centuries. And you will be able to summon that box as soon as you banish your clothing to it.

By now, Sanguines three revelers were seated on the benches arrayed around the shrine, waiting for the show. I supposed I shouldnt have expected to come away from negotiating with a Daedra Lord unscathed. Oh well, nothing I hadnt displayed to countless waterfalls. I lifted my hand and cast Sanguines spell. Sure enough, I and the three revelers were instantly and fully exposed.

Well done! cried Sanguine. While I do like to tease, youve been a good sport and have quite the fine little figure, my dear.

The three revelers applauded, stood and opened several bottles of wine. The older Bosmer said, Seeing as youre now properly undressed, are you sure you wont stay for dinner? Our Khajiiti sister here gives the best kitty licks, and you can be the main course!

I couldnt help but smile. I appreciate the offer, but Im sure I have somewhere else I have to be.

Pleased to note that Sanguine had indeed replaced his silly spell, I filled my hand with the new magic and cast it. Sure enough, the magical chest appeared, floating slightly above the ground. I retrieved my clothing, dressed and dispelled the chest.

As I approached Superian, I said, Did you enjoy the show?

The mare nickered softly.

After mounting Superian, I turned her south.

Acadian, you really dont need to tell anyone about all this.

Of course not, Buffy, he replied with a chuckle.

I glanced at the westering sun. We should easily make Skingrad by nightfall. Well get a room at the tavern instead of the guild Ive dealt with enough lechery today without Vigge trying to watch me sleep.

That new chest seems deceptively large inside, remarked Acadian. There should be plenty of room for camping gear and provisions. Even spare waterskins, I should imagine.

And all the other things a girl needs. The shoe shoppe opens first thing in the morning.


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hazmick
post Apr 8 2016, 02:38 PM
Post #25


Mouth
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Joined: 28-July 10
From: North



An excellent chapter. Buffy seems to have developed a distaste for Daedra, which is hardly surprising given her past experiences.

A pocket realm of Oblivion inside a summon-able chest? Now that is a clever idea. Haa-Rei is now trying to figure out how to make one of his own. happy.gif


--------------------
"If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world."

"...a quotation is a handy thing to have about, saving one the trouble of thinking for oneself, always a laborious business."
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ghastley
post Apr 8 2016, 03:09 PM
Post #26


Councilor
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Wait a moment. Does this mean that Buffy has actually managed to fill her Bag of Infinite Holding with shoes, and she needs another container? ohmy.gif Maybe she just has so much in that one, she can't find what she's looking for.

Or is it just one for now, and another for later? So she can have a separate stash in Skyrim?


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Mods for Oblivion and now Daggerfall and Skyrim. Fan fiction, too, and I play ESO.
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Renee
post Apr 8 2016, 03:25 PM
Post #27


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From: Ellicott City, Maryland



My gosh, those people sure aren't very nice to your tight-butted elf, eh? Undressing in front of them all = yicch! Poor elf. [censored].

I'm hearing the voice of James Earl Jones when Dagon speaks.

QUOTE
Emboldened by the fact that I was still an elf instead of an ash pile


biggrin.gif

This post has been edited by Renee: Apr 8 2016, 03:59 PM
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mirocu
post Apr 8 2016, 04:00 PM
Post #28


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I have to say that out of all the Daedra, Sanguine at least have a sense of humor unlike some other ones. Not without consequences though.

But at least Buffy got a nice chest out of the deal! And to be honest I dont know if any pun was intended or not here... tongue.gif


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Lol bird

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate,
I am the captain of my soul.


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SubRosa
post Apr 9 2016, 12:12 AM
Post #29


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From: Between The Worlds



I can definitely attest that Buffy has some impressive stones under those buskins... Maybe not Fighters Guild stones, but some real rocks nonetheless.

I don't blame Buffy for not wanting Sanguine's staff. For one thing, there's no telling where its been! Let alone the associations with monsters that tried to destroy the world, and did slay her beloved.

Uh oh, I think Buffy might regret agreeing to that drinking contest in 200 years!

Let's not forget the shoes! laugh.gif



QUOTE(mirocu @ Apr 8 2016, 11:00 AM) *

But at least Buffy got a nice chest out of the deal!

Maybe not as nice as Sigrid's, but still pretty good... wink.gif laugh.gif


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mALX
post Apr 9 2016, 07:10 AM
Post #30


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From: Cyrodiil, the Wastelands, and BFE TN



QUOTE

What a shame you are such prudish thing, for I can imagine countless uses for that silver tongue besides clever flattery.


ohmy.gif

Well now we know Bill Clinton's Sanguine's "act of choice," rollinglaugh.gif

QUOTE

Acadian, you really dont need to tell anyone about all this.

Of course not, Buffy, he replied with a chuckle.


Uh...but Acadian never said he wouldn't write it down and post it for all of us to read, dear Buffy!

BWAAHAA !!!!

This was so much more the feel of Buffy's voice here in this chapter; I can tell you were totally immersed in the writing here! (and I see foreshadowing for Buffy doing Sanguine's quest in Skyrim in this one, too - WOO HOO! )

I'm assuming you have a summonable chest as a mod? I need something like that, lol.

And Buffy shoe shopping to fill the chest had me in stitches!!!

And yes, Viggie's bedhopping can keep you from getting well rested in that Guild hall, lol. I think if you sleep downstairs he leaves you alone, lol.

Awesome Write !!!!!



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Lopov
post Apr 9 2016, 08:09 PM
Post #31


Master
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From: Slovenia



Nice recollection of events at Sanguine's Shrine. When Sanguine was about to reveal his conditions, I expected one of them will be for Buffy to expose herself. Judging from reactions of Sanguine's worshippers, it was quite a sight to see. laugh.gif


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"I saw a politician the other day."
"Horrible creatures - I avoid them whenever I can."
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Grits
post Apr 10 2016, 02:54 PM
Post #32


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Ah, the introduction let me focus on Buffy’s words from the very first one without any wondering about where or when. Thank you for that!

I’m tickled to find out what happened after Leyawiin with the Sanguine situation. Buffy’s magical wardrobe is a charming part of her duality. A wanderer who needs a pocket realm to hold her accouterments!

Every bit of the dialog with the sly Lord of Lechery and his revelers made me grin. I love how Sanguine countered Buffy’s proposal for the chest and one favor by adding two conditions of his own. The future drinking contest was a masterful touch!

Buffy’s grim reminder of Kvatch and Savlian hit close to home. I imagine it would be difficult for veterans of the Oblivion Crisis to deal with any kind of dremora.

The gentle exchange with Acadian at the end made a warm finish to the Sanguine box business. Camping gear, water skins, and new shoes, that’s Buffy! happy.gif

This post has been edited by Grits: Apr 10 2016, 02:55 PM


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Kazaera
post Apr 13 2016, 06:47 AM
Post #33


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Buffy dealing with Daedric princes! Wonderful. Some people would assume a dress and getting rid of an annoying spell weren't worth bargaining with Sanguine, but not our intrepid bowgirl! laugh.gif And she nabs a chest that's larger on the inside! Nice, and definitely better than yet another staff for the walls of the Arcane University. smile.gif

QUOTE

A simple thing, really. Join me for a friendly little drinking contest. It doesnt have to be soon. As Ive said, time is rather meaningless to a Daedric Prince. Shall I call for you in, say, two hundred years or so? Perhaps you will have loosened up some by then.


Buffy, no! It's a trap! It's... oh no, she's already accepted. /o\ I have the sneaking suspicion you'll regret that agreement, Buffy. And it won't be in two hundred years from your perspective.

Finally:

QUOTE
Oh well, nothing I hadnt displayed to countless waterfalls.


laugh.gif


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Acadian
post Apr 15 2016, 01:43 PM
Post #34


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hazmick- Thank you! Buffys tried several clever storage options, but I think she likes this summoned chest the best.

ghastley- Our thinking is that her bag of holding is now a more modest mage satchel that can serve more as a day pack with her heavy duty needs and cold food storage etc in the summonable chest. Peeking ahead, Buffy has to time travel naked, so everything she needs has to be conjurable.

Renee- Thank you! I figure it does take some stones to barter with a Daedric Prince and not become an ash pile. laugh.gif

mirocu- Thanks. I agree that Sanguine is . . . not disgusting like several of his colleagues are.

SubRosa- I remember the frustration Buffy felt after her second useless staff (from Vaermina). One more from Sanguine was just too much! Yup, a girl cant have too many shoes or too much closet space, she figures. Thank you!

mALX- Thank you! Im so glad you could see the Buffy you know in that episode. Yes, we do have a summonable chest mod.

Lopov- Thanks! I figure Sanguine lives up to his title as the Prince of Debauchery.

Grits- Thanks for the feedback about including a few scene-setting notes preceding the stories. It never quite fit into our fiction plans to get Buffy back to Sanguine for her Leyawiin reward during Book 1. But what she would want from it has been firmly in mind for a very long time. Nice to share this bit of unfinished business.

Kazaera- Thank you. Yes, Buffy may regret her deal with Sanguine. She is a bit prudish when it comes to her behavior, but not so much about dropping her clothes. I figure its a child of nature wood elf thing.

*

Our next story focuses on how the Bards College helped Buffy refine her vocal gifts. This takes place in Skyrim during one of her time traveling excursions. This story actually precedes her performance at the Flowing Bowl that she shared with you a couple stories ago.

Each of the five episodes that comprise this tale culminates in a music vid. I have been ruthless in my editing to ensure the prose portions are both short and sharply focused on setting up the music vid selection that crowns each episode. My hope is that you will be able to see, hear and feel Buffy's gradual progression from an amusingly humble start to what we know that she is capable of.

* * *

A Bards Tale Part 1

My long day in the saddle melted away into the warm bathwater. Closing both eyes, I began softly singing for Acadian. When I heard the door creak ajar, then quietly shut, I closed my mouth and opened my eyes.

Your singing is beautiful, Buffy, please dont stop. It was Lisette, the Winking Skeevers bard. She also helped serve drinks and tended the inns bath for any women staying there.

Thats quite the compliment from a songstress of your skill, Lisette, but Im too self-conscious to perform for others the way you can. I stood, and gratefully accepted the towel she had brought.

Undeterred, Lisette said, Look, I know a beautiful voice when I hear it. Why I believe I could even see the images of butterflies in a meadow as you sang.

I nodded slightly as I combed out my damp hair. It wasnt your imagination, it was mine. I cant help the images that flow through my singing voice. So now you know another reason I could never sing publically.

She stared at me. Do you know how many bards would love to have such an ability? She took the towel from me and handed me my clothes.

Im a traveler and adventuress, not a bard, I said as I dressed.

Buffy, many bards are travelers. Why, on the road is where the inspiration for so many tales and songs comes from. Look. Im just finishing my shift. Let me introduce you to Pantea Ateia, Dean of Vocals at the Bards College.

Now? I asked as Lisette helped tie back my ponytail.

Of course, now! The larger woman grabbed my hand and I had little choice as she led me out the door.

*

Lady Pantea, this is Buffy, said Lisette. You simply must hear. . . and see her gift!

The stately Imperial who had just swept into the recital room was well dressed. She smiled at me. Lisette has an ear as fine as her voice, so I look forward to hearing yours. Do you have a song in mind?

I nervously shook my head.

Unphased, Pantea said, Do you know A Dragonborn Comes? In response to my nod, she smiled encouragingly and continued, Its popularity and heroic message make it a wonderfully forgiving first tune for a nervous bard. Lisette will accompany you on lute.

Lisette grabbed a lute and strummed a verse of the song to warm up. Show us your voice, Buffy, and the gift that it carries.

The dragon I knew best was Phantom and I thought of her as I opened my mouth. I was still nervous as a chipmunk, but hoped it didnt reflect in my voice. What I saw on Lisette and Panteas faces as I sang, however, was not very encouraging.

1:36 min music video


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Screenshot: Buffy in Artaeum
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mirocu
post Apr 15 2016, 04:21 PM
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A wonderful song, perfectly vocalized by our dear Buffy! Her gifts (voice and ability) are more precious than gold happy.gif



*sniff*


-Keep it up, girl! biggrin.gif


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I am the captain of my soul.


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Lopov
post Apr 17 2016, 08:50 AM
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Nicely written conversation between Buffy and Lisette as she helps the singing Elf in the inn's bath.

As mirocu says, the song is perfectly vocalized for Buffy so I have to wonder why would Lisette and Pantea not be enthusiastic about it. wink.gif


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ghastley
post Apr 17 2016, 01:14 PM
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Do I smell a slight story arc coming on, with things lost in caves? Maybe it's the "Part 1" in the title that does it. laugh.gif

A bathtub in the Winking Skeever? Pictures, or it didn't happen!

Vivid images of dragons might be a bit daunting to those who haven't met one, I suppose. And since Buffy isn't Dragonborn, her images may be different from their expectations.



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Mods for Oblivion and now Daggerfall and Skyrim. Fan fiction, too, and I play ESO.
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SubRosa
post Apr 17 2016, 07:42 PM
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Why, on the road is where the inspiration for so many tales and songs comes from
Talsgar speaks!

A lovely little story of how Buffy found her voice. smile.gif


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Grits
post Apr 18 2016, 10:34 PM
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Oh how fun to get to see Buffy evolve from a beautiful and charming but untrained singer-songpicturemaker to the uniquely gifted bard that we saw win over the crowd at the Flowing Bowl!

Im told that Buffy in the bath is a great place to start any story. Some suggest that Buffy sing a song about that part. whistling.gif I am beside myself with delight seeing her interact with familiar faces in Skyrim!

Your editing discipline is admirable. Part 1 is a precisely cut jewel. I love it!


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mALX
post Apr 19 2016, 04:02 PM
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What a cute little Elfin voice Buffy has in this episode! Like Ghastley, I see a future for Buffy in the Bard College coming up, perhaps helping them retrieve certain lost instruments! How exciting, and one of my favorite fun questlines in Skyrim; but with Buffy involved I know it will be AWESOME !!!

Loved the natural scene with Lisette, easily visualized !!! Awesome Write!




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