Buffy - Book 4, Drodda the Icewitch Options

[Lopov]

I remember the Undertow Cavern from Cyrodiil but some quick googling revealied that the minotaur in question is one of the so called bosses.

Well done, Mirri and Buffy!

I like this story a lot, it has a high pace and it`s nice to read about some combat.

Her short sword carried a ‘taunt’ enchantment that would cause whatever foe it struck to focus its attacks exclusively on her

That sounds very useful as long as Mirri has someone to back her up. Which she does. And even someone with a great chest!

[haute ecole rider]

I really enjoyed reading Burri's adventures in Undertow Cavern. It must have been thoroughly plundered by the late 3rd Era since I do not recall so many treasures/trinkets laying around. Julian was certainly surprised by the amount of shinies in 2E Undertow!

Looks like we have a partnership now. Always good to have someone strong enough to take punishment from the big bads.

I remember Phae playing with Gap Closer when she was first starting out - she loved it. Was sad to lose it when we switched from S&B to dual wield.

And now it looks like Buffy has enough coin to go shopping - for real! More shoes, perhaps?

[Grits]

She looked at me. “That chest of yours is impressive.”

*spits tea*

What a great picture of Buffy and Mirri on their horses!

I love how seamlessly game mechanics weave through the story. That was a fun fight and a great showcase of shield and mage working together. Buffy’s “horselength” unit of measurement makes me smile!

[macole]

To see a bag-of-holding in use for the first time would be an impressive sight, I imagine.

[Acadian]

Previously- Mirri and Buffy rode to Undertow Cavern to evaluate their ability to fight together and dispatch a troublesome minotaur. It seems the pair is well matched as Mirri was able to hold the attention of their enemies while Buffy’s staff and spells kept the duo healthy and delivered enough damage to slay their foes.

*

Renee- The dungeon dive was a simple one but enough, I think, for the two ladies to realize that, together, they harness pretty good synergy. Buffy’s always done better as part of a duo where she can stand behind a Xena and play Gabriel.

ghastley- Mirri does a great job holding taunt, blocking and interrupting a boss. In game, it’s actually Buffy who positions to be away from the business end of a boss.

SubRosa- It’s awkward but I decided to use some of the MMO terms like buffs, taunt, gap-closer. . . although ‘tank’ would be a bridge too far. Yes, Mirri uses Rocky Balboa tactics but, like Stormcrow, she’s smart enough to wear some good armor. Oh, and Mirri has the advantage of having a handy pocket healer.

Lopov- This delve, of course, was for the two women to evaluate each other in action. They’ll do another small dungeon a bit later in the book to fill their coin purses. Late in the book will be a pretty good dungeon crawl to get to the ice witch and take her on.

Rider- SubRosa suggested ‘Burri’. . . I had been thinking perhaps ‘Muffy’? Buffy tripping over her robe while trying to sneak gives a pretty good clue as to what she needs to go shopping for. . . .

Grits- Heh, I couldn’t resist the ‘impressive chest’ joke. Being an equestrienne horse-crazy elf, Buffy tends to measure shorter distances in hands and horse lengths.

macole- Magic is such a wonderful thing, and a bag of holding is pretty high on the list of why. I fell in love with the idea when first exposed to it in Baldur’s Gate.

* * *

Episode 22

During the short ride back to Leyawiin, Mirri commented, “It’s only midday. There’s plenty of time to collect our bounty, sell that second horn along with those gems and divide up our gold.”

“Sounds great,” I replied. “A pair of gold coins would be two more than I have now.”

She smiled and after a few quiet moments added, “Buffy, I meant what I said back in the cave. I could feel your continuous healing and shielding. Even my blade dealt more damage. Your staff and spells made quick work of our foes. I’m willing to enter into a longer partnership and lend my assistance to your quest. What say you?”

“I meant what I said too, Mirri. When Dagail told me you would stand between me and danger, she spoke truly. Druvaakh never even gave me a glance. I’d be pleased for us to travel together.”

Riding side by side, we reached out and gripped each other’s forearms in a warrior’s clasp.

Once back in Leyawiin, the resultant gold from our brief but dangerous morning was enough for me to not only buy a coin purse but to fill it up quite handily.

“You really lost all your belongings?” asked Mirri. “Everything?”

I nodded. “Right down to my skin.”

“What are going to buy with your newly acquired gold?”

“Though I’m impressed with how well Dagail’s clothier altered this robe, I’d really like to add something more practical to my tiny wardrobe. Sneaking and fighting in a robe is. . . challenging.”

“You know, Buffy, there’s a fine armorer in town here. If I recall I think he also carries adventure wear in both cloth and leather.”

“Could you show me where that is?” I asked.

“Certainly, after all, my partner needs something more practical than a prissy pink dress or even a tailored robe.”

I grinned. “Lead the way.”

Once Mirri escorted me to the shoppe in question, she said, “Well, I need to bang the dents out of my own armor and clean the minotaur innards off everything. I’ll leave you now. Give my regards to Dagail. How about you join me tomorrow morning at the same tavern where we met and we can discuss our next steps regarding your quest?

“Great idea, Mirri. I’ll see you then.”

I spent the next several hours in the armor shoppe before my mage robe and moccasins were stowed in my storage trunk and my coin purse was noticeably lighter. I was, however, the proud owner of a new outfit. I counted myself fortunate indeed that the armorer happened to have something that would not only serve my needs but was small enough that only minor on-the-spot alterations had been required. The tunic fell to just below my hips and had long sleeves. It was of forest green silk with buckskin reinforcing several areas, trimmed with the fur of a gray wolf and cinched at the waist with a buckskin belt. My new breeches and boots were of buckskin as well. On the way back to the guildhall, I stopped at Augustina’s clothing shoppe in search of a gift for Dagail.

*

Dagail slowly circled, evaluating my new outfit as I told her about the success Mirri and I had enjoyed. “This quite suits you, Buffy. Forest green and buckskin are certainly your colors.”

I chuckled. “Well, I don’t fancy trying to sneak through another dungeon wearing a mage robe. I had to pay almost as much attention to not tripping over my hem as I did to the denizens of Undertow Cavern.”

“Since the quarry you seek is a spellcaster, Buffy, I think you’re wise to hold on to your guild robe. As an unknown mage, wearing it when you interact with other guild members will likely net you better cooperation than buckskins.”

I nodded. “Until better known in the guild, sounds like I’d be wise to follow the old adage, ‘When in the Imperial City, do as the Imperials.’ Oh, and thanks again for realizing that Mirri does indeed seem to be a good companion for what lies ahead of me.”

“I’m so glad my instincts may have been right on that, Buffy.”

In response to my inquiry as we shared a dinner at the guild hall, Dagail explained how she earned her own income from crafting and selling scrolls that could cast simple, practical conjuration and alteration spells. In fact, after dinner, she taught me several of the spells that powered her scrolls. She then showed me a few more tricks to using my magical map effectively.

We then headed upstairs and chatted late into the night about all kinds of things, including my plans to meet with Mirri in the morning. Dagail told me she had some shopping of her own planned.

*

Mirri lowered her wine goblet the next morning. “So, we travel to Elden Root, coax support for your quest out of the Arch Mage - Vanus Galerion. We then head to the Windhelm Mages Guild to try and ferret out clues about the location of this ice witch who is siphoning residual magic from the corpse of Kynareth’s ice dragon. Finally, we proceed to wherever she is and stop her. Does that about sum it up?”

I chuckled at her succinct description as I smoothed the skirt of my guild robe. “Yes, you have the right of it, Mirri. Dagail suggested you were attuned to a great number of wayshrines?”

Mirri nodded. “I think you’ll find I can get us most anywhere we might need to go.”

“Would you be ready to leave for Elden Root soon?” I asked.

She looked over her armor, weapon and shield in between sips of wine. “My saddlebags are upstairs in the tavern here. I don’t need much notice at all to collect them and be ready.”

"I’d like to spend the night with Dagail and say my goodbyes to her. How about early tomorrow after you’ve had time to break your fast?”

“I’ll collect you tomorrow morning at your guildhall then.” She tilted her goblet toward me and lifted one eyebrow. “Are you sure you don’t want some of this? It’s really quite good.”

“I do enjoy a small goblet now and again but can’t hold much.” I looked at the cup cradled in my hands. “I think I’ll stick with bergamot tea this morning.”

She nodded. “I’m rather an oenophile.”

I closed my eyes briefly, mentally scanning the countless books I had read while a student at the Arcane University and found the unusual word. “I’m not surprised, given how much you seem to be enjoying this bottle.”

“I’m impressed, Buffy. Rarely do I encounter someone who knows what that means.”

I shrugged. “I read a lot.”

“Really?” Her face lit up. "I love maps and old books. I can lose myself in a library or booksellers for days on end.”

“Something it seems we have in common,” I replied.

*

I was still struggling with my last round of painful goodbyes and here I was, in the throes of another. Dagail and I were both trying to restrain our tears. Finally, we just gave up and sobbed in each other’s arms for a time.

“I really do know this is what you must do, Buffy. And I’m so happy you'll have Mirri with you to help. It’s just that. . . being a seer tends to alienate friends, leaving me with few. It seems you’ve just gotten here and I’ve already grown very fond of you. It feels like we’ve known each other so long.”

“We have, Dagail. Centuries. I’m attuned to the wayshrine here and promised I’d visit you. I shall keep that promise. Oh, and I got something for you.” I summoned my magic trunk and produced a burgundy brocade gown – rather like the one I was used to seeing Dagail wear in the Third Era. “Augustina had this in just your size.”

Dagail sucked in her breath. “It’s beautiful!” Once we got her into it, she said, “I love how it feels. . . somehow familiar. I have something for you too, Buffy.” She reached under her pillow and produced a mage pouch. As she pressed it into my hands, she said, “This one’s enchanted with a spell of holding, like mine. I figured you could use it.”

My tears began again as I pulled her close. “You’re so very thoughtful. Thank you, dear friend.”

*

Screenshot: Buffy’s new adventuring outfit

This post has been edited by Acadian: Jan 18 2025, 02:32 PM

[Renee]

Yes, exactly. Gabrielles can be fun to play as well as Xenas. In Skyrim I've got a Gabrielle whose name is Celeste Yael. She's a healer. All she does, 90% of what she does anyway, is heal the party she travels with. Rarely, she'll need to break out a weapon. You'd think such a roleplay might become boring quick, since her NPC party gets all the glory, but it's surprisingly addictive keeping others going. I'd imagine this is compounded in ESO, in which you're getting feedback from actual, other Players after combat is over.

Wow, Buffy is POOR poor, with just four coins at the moment. 🪙 In some ways, that's my fave part of a game, when we're just starting out.

Mirri approves of your elf's healing work. Buffy is hired!

Is Leyawiin partially-flooded in ESO like it is in Better Cities (if that option is chosen)?

Nice, forest-green tunic + fur & buckskin, sounds perfect.

Wine-drinking in the morning, goodness! Tamriellic version of Kathy Lee. 🍷 (kidding) oenophile = A person who has a fondness or appreciation for wine. New word for me.

Wicked-awesome screenshot. Why're they sobbing so much at the end? Worried about the Ice Witch, I guess.

[ghastley]

Wine-drinking in the morning, goodness! Tamriellic version of Kathy Lee. 🍷 (kidding) oenophile = A person who has a fondness or appreciation for wine. New word for me.

ZOS thought it would be a new word for most people, so they had Mirri explain it. "I'm also a bit of an oenophile. It means I like wine. A lot." However, put that way, I'm unsure if she likes wine - a lot, or a lot of wine.

They're hinting about one of her rapport increases, when you craft an alcoholic beverage in her presence. Tanlorin also has the +1 for crafting wine, but you get +5 for drinking some, so the motivation is unclear.

It's good to see Buffy getting to look like Buffy. Without any pink.

[haute ecole rider]

How delightful to see the growing friendship between Mirri and Buffy!

But first, let's get my two nits out of the way . . .

First, I spotted a wayward comma:

Druvaakh, never even gave me a glance.

I had to read this a few times and still feel it reads better without that comma trailing after the Minotaur.

Second, and this isn't really a nit but rather a question: Did you mean Winterhold, or Windhelm? I ask because Winterhold is not yet part of ESO, while Windhelm as the capital of the fourth zone in the Ebonheart Pact; and personally, I often mistype one for the other. I'm sure you'll be able to put my mind at rest with your next post.

Now to the fun part. I was happy to see Buffy in proper adventuring attire, and this one certainly looks good on her! I smile whenever I hear Mirri talking about banging the dents out of her armor - you may recall Lyris saying the same thing to Sai at the end of the Markarth story line in ESO . . . It sounds like this new outfit of Buffy's will serve her needs properly for much of the time, but I do agree with Mirri's suggestion to hang on to the newly fitted mage's robe. This is where that Bag of Holding will come in handy!

And it's nice that Dagail taught Buffy a few more ways to support her shopping habit - a variety of income sources is invaluable when adventuring across Tamriel! And that brocaded burgundy gown she gave Dagail rings a bell - or two!

Looking forward to seeing how Buffy enjoys her time in Elden Root. I suspect it won't be long, but still, the place does leave an impression.

[SubRosa]

Now that our new pals are flush with cash it is time to spend some money! Buffy's new adventuring fit is both practical and resplendent with drip.

They have quite a bit of traveling ahead of them. But thankfully the 2nd Age has wayshrines, and Mirri seems attuned to enough to speed their travels along much faster than the old shank's mare.

Oenophile. I cannot say I knew what that meant. This was like reading an HP Lovecraft story. I had to stop to look up a word in the dictionary!

And some nice parting gifts between friends. Those bags of holding definitely come in handy.

[Lopov]

A great looking staff, a fitting outfit and a reliable sister in arms - Buffy couldn't ask for more!

[Acadian]

Previously- After completing a Fighters Guild quest together to evaluate each other, Mirri and Buffy decided a longer partnership was in order. With her quest proceeds, Buffy promptly bought herself a buckskin and silk outfit that would be more appropriate for adventuring. After Buffy explained her quest to Mirri, the pair decided to leave for Elden Root the following morning. Buffy spent her last evening in Leyawiin with Dagail and they exchanged gifts.

*

Renee- It was ESO where Buffy’s nurturing nature really blossomed in the form of healing. Leyawiin in ESO is not flooded. It actually handles the Niben very well with bridges that allow the city to occupy both sides of the river, yet high enough to allow most ships passage. I think the tears shared by Buffy and Dagail were, on Buffy’s part, letting go – even temporarily – of the only link in the 2nd Era Buffy has to where/when she comes from. On Dagail’s part, as she explains, being a seer allows her few friends – especially ones like Buffy with whom she can comfortably discuss her visions.

ghastley- Buffy did indeed feel good getting into some practical adventure wear that’s more trip-proof than a mages robe.

Rider- Thanks for pointing out both those nits so I could quickly fix them. Especially the Windhelm/Winterhold mixup. I’m thankful you and Lili are well-acquainted with the difference between those two bitterly cold places. I really enjoy having that bit of continuity Dagail provides between Eras. Even though she’s not part of ESO of course, she’ll be a fixture in Buffy’s story. Yes, I think Elden Root will have a very big impression on Buffy.

SubRosa- The wayshrine system allows for some interesting possibilities. Happily, with Mirri along, Buffy won’t have to slog to each one to discover the ones she needs before she can use them. The scale of ESO is so large that some sort of quick travel system is very helpful. Buffy now has her mages pouch of holding as well as her impressive chest magic trunk to store things. The trunk will be for less used items and the pouch more for items requiring quicker access.

Lopov- For starting out naked and afraid, Buffy is rapidly assembling what she needs to support her quest.

* * *

Part Three. Grahtwood

This region is the southern heart of the Wood Elves' great forest, and home to more of the gigantic graht oaks than any other part of Valenwood. Its capital, now also the capital of the entire Aldmeri Dominion, is Elden Root.

Episode 23

The next morning, after I finished a bowl of porridge and some strawberries, Mirri arrived, looking ready to go. She nodded approvingly at my new silk and buckskin outfit. After one last goodbye to Dagail, Mirri and I left the Leyawiin guildhall and headed for the city’s wayshrine. “You’ve not been to Elden Root, I presume?” she asked.

I shook my head. “I’ve visited other graht oaks before. In fact I was conceived in the highest branches of one. But, no, I’ve never been to Elden Root.”

“The Elden Root wayshrine is inside the tree on its ground level,” Mirri said. “I owe it to you that the first time you see the tree you have the perspective of enough distance to fully appreciate its scale. We’ll therefore arrive at another wayshrine and travel the remaining distance by horse.”

I’ll trust your judgement, Mirri.”

As we stepped up to Leyawiin’s wayshrine, Mirri grasped my hand in hers, saying, “Don’t let go until we arrive at our destination.” She placed her other hand on the shrine. A few moments later, we were gone.

When the world came back into focus, Mirri said, “We are at the Elden Root Temple wayshrine, roughly half a league northeast of Elden Root. Touch the shrine and attune yourself to it as I’ll have you do each time we arrive at one you’ve not visited before.”

After I added this new wayshrine to my tiny repertoire, Mirri had me close my eyes and led me a short distance away from the wayshrine before telling me to open them.

Looming out of the jungle morning haze ahead of me was a tree that nearly filled my vision even at this great distance. I looked up along its trunk. And up. And up. And up until the tree disappeared into the clouds. Even from here, I could see the tree featured many windows – but they appeared like tiny yellow dots of light against its massive trunk. “Well, stuff me gently,” I managed to whisper in awe.

Mirri, smiled. “Impressive, is it not? The girth of the tree at its base rivals that of the entire city of Leyawiin and its tallest branches are lost in the clouds.”

“Impressive doesn’t even begin to do it justice,” I breathed. Even from this distance, I felt. . . something. . . as if the tree itself beckoned me. The word ‘home’ floated among my thoughts and I was pretty sure I didn’t put it there.

Mirri summoned Gray and mounted. Once I could tear my eyes from the magnificent tree, I called for Superian and mounted as well.

We made our way along a jungle trail until it joined a road. The tree grew ever larger as we drew closer.

Eventually we passed under some of the tree’s roots that curved above ground and could see an arched doorway leading into the tree. I stopped and slowly turned in my saddle, trying to take it all in. There was a stable outside the tree along with numerous vendor stands selling a variety of wares. Some areas of the arched root system sprouted bulbous pods, each two or three horse lengths across at the base and rising to a point. These pods appeared to be dwellings, though one hosted a tavern sign, and a gentle breeze carried the lilting song of a bard.

A lake meandered near the tree and I could see that a massive above ground root provided a wide bridge leading away from the tree. In the shallows and along the nearby shore, I could see numerous bathers in various states of undress as they washed, dried or dressed themselves.

“The tree’s public bathing area,” Mirri commented, “where the warm air and pleasant water temperature combine with traditional Bosmer lack of modestly.”

We rode into the tree through a tall open archway. This ground level hosted a variety of merchants, a bistro where I could see several diners seated at small tables, and the tree’s wayshrine. I also noticed a number of watchful Bosmer city guards patrolling. I could now see there were two other open arches leading into this area besides the one we had entered through. We dismounted near the wayshrine so I could attune myself to it.

After unsummoning the horses, we climbed a wide ramp-shaped portion of the tree to a set of arched double doors, from which grew vines and green leaves and led to the second level. There we found crafting stations and merchants associated with smithing, working leather, cloth and wood, jewelry crafting, enchanting and even an alchemy station as well as a bank. On the far side of this level, another ramp led up and along the back wall. Along that wall were four doors flanked by banners indicating where they led. “I recognize banners of the Fighters and Mages guilds, Mirri, but what do those other two signify?”

“The banners with the crown on them flank the throne room of King Camoran Aeradan.”

“The tree has a king?” I asked.

“Oh no,” chuckled Mirri. “He claims to be the king of the provinces that comprise Valenwood, including this one - Grahtwood. Most of the Bosmer tribes pay little heed, however. I don’t expect many of them bend a knee to any authority beyond their own tribe, or perhaps whichever clan their tribe belongs to.” She pointed toward the fourth door. "Those banners with the oak tree depicted mark the door leading to the upper areas – where most of the Elden Root tribe lives. Access is limited to the tribe and its guests. This lower portion of the tree is quite cosmopolitan though. As you can see, the tribe willingly hosts all manner of non-Bosmeri folk, organizations and enterprises as long as no one harms their tree.”

“The mages guild is where I need to begin,” I said.

“Buffy, in your effort to coax support from Arch Mage Galerion, I fear my presence would be . . . counterproductive. As I’m sure you recall, I can rub people the wrong way when they first meet me. My lack of membership in your guild would not help things either.”

“Where will you go, Mirri? How will I meet up with you again?”

“I’ll use the wayshrine system to attend some matters elsewhere but I’ll arrange to breakfast early each morning at that café we saw on the ground level near the wayshrine. That way you can keep me apprised as you arrange things for the next step in our quest.”

I tilted my head, looked up at her and smiled.

“What?” she asked.

“You called it ‘our’ quest, Mirri. Thank you. And yes, I’ll give you a morning status report each day over breakfast. See you tomorrow.”

*

Screenshot: First glimpse of Elden Root

This post has been edited by Acadian: Jan 23 2025, 05:48 PM

[Lopov]

Mirri finally approves of Buffy's outfit.

A lovely and vivid description of Elden Root. During my ESO Travels, we've been there rarely but your description brought back some memories, for instance three archways leading to the center of the tree.

[SubRosa]

Well stuff me, Buffy has made her first wayshrine journey, and her first visit to Elden Root.

Larger in circumference than Leyawiin, and certainly much taller. That is some tree! I liked how you use dialogue to convey that.

No waterfalls in the public bathing area. So that might not be strong enough a pull to get Buffy out of her clothes.

It sounds like the King is a King in his own mind, and little else. A common enough circumstance for many kings IRL as well.





nits:
Eventually we passed under some of the tree’s roots that arched above ground and could see an arched doorway leading into the tree.
You have a repetition of the word arched in the same sentence. It might flow better if you changed the first one to something like curved, or bowed; or the second to something like vaulted.

[ghastley]

I was initially wondering why Buffy wasn't looking for somewhere to stay the night, until I remembered that she is already a proper Mages guild member. Is Snugpod in her future?

The little changes you have made to Elden Root seem to correct the same things that always annoyed me. King does not live right at the top, but in the upper section. The rest of the population has homes, presumably getting smaller towards the top. There is more than one place to eat in a city.

And they did remember to attune the wayshrine. I have had a character who came from Haven, and went up the tree without doing so. It's a lot harder getting back after a guild daily without it.

[haute ecole rider]

“The tree’s public bathing area,” Mirri commented, “where the warm air and pleasant water temperature combine with traditional Bosmer lack of modestly.”

This observation of our mature companion's made me smile. How true in more ways than one!

I did find a small nit, one I've missed myself in my own edits:

“Oh no,” chuckled Mirri. “He claims to be the king of the provinces that comprise Valenwood, including this one - Grahtwood. Most of the Bosmer tribes pay little heed, however. I don’t expect many of them bend a knee to any authority beyond their own tribe, or perhaps whichever clan their tribe belongs to.” She pointed toward the fourth door. Those banners with the oak tree depicted mark the door leading to the upper areas – where most of the Elden Root tribe lives. Access is limited to the tribe and its guests. This lower portion of the tree is quite cosmopolitan though. As you can see, the tribe willingly hosts all manner of non-Bosmeri folk, organizations and enterprises as long as no one harms their tree.”

Seems you are missing an opening quote before the bolded 'Those'

I really enjoyed Buffy's first view of Elden Root. I first approached it from the south, after completing the quests at Haven and helping the circus get their show back on stage there.

Trust Mirri to be ever practical regarding touching base on a regular basis. Breakfast at the cafe every morning? I'm in!

I also see Mirri is incredibly wise in choosing not to accompany Buffy when she meets Vanus Galerion. There's been times I wished we'd permanently lost that blowhard on the transport to Coldharbour. Ah well.

[Renee]

OH nice, they're off to Valenwood. Are any elves portrayed as cannibals in ESO? Hmm, I just did a quick search of the Green Pact at UESP. Seems it's more about being a carnivore a cannibal. It's that darn Pocket Guide which started that nonsense!

That's so awesome, a tree so tall it climbs into the clouds. I seem to recall Buffy went into a huge tree in Book 3, however she's still awed by this mammoth in Elden Root.

Gosh the description of Elden Root's vicinity is so placid. Yet breathtaking. 🌳

Whoa, Mirri is recusing herself from entering the MG!

[Grits]

And Buffy gets her buckskin and silk! She looks great in that outfit. And now she has a mage pouch! She quest and market-ready!

Mirri lowered her wine goblet the next morning. It is a treat to see Mirri being Mirri.


“Well, stuff me gently,” I managed to whisper in awe. Oh my goodness, this is charming and hilarious.

Mirri’s approach for a first view of Elden Root does it justice. What a spectacular place. I smiled that it subtly reached out to Buffy.

[Acadian]

Previously- Buffy and Mirri magically traveled to a wayshrine near Elden Root in the Valenwood province of Grahtwood. Buffy’s first glimpse of the massive tree city left her (almost) speechless. They rode the remaining distance and Mirri gave Buffy a bit of a tour of the outside and lower levels of the tree – including the location of the Mages Guild. At that point, Mirri departed for business elsewhere and the pair agreed to meet for breakfast each morning so Buffy could brief Mirri on her progress in gaining an audience with the Arch Mage.

*

Lopov- Yes, the first glimpse of Elden Root really left an impression on Buffy.

Subrosa- There’s plenty of waterfalls but none right at the base of Elden Root. I’m sure Buffy will try out that bathing area at some point in this book. Uniting the Bosmer under one banner is akin to herding cats. If the Bosmers’ biggest strength is being able to fight masterfully in their forests and jungles, their biggest weakness is the bickering and refusal of the clans to work toward a common purpose. Thanks for the nit; I changed it per your suggestion.

ghastley- Buffy’s a wanderer and gregarious. That combination will probably have her spending most nights with friends or in Mages Guildhalls among fellow mages. I don’t expect she’ll end up with a house of her own in her story. As you know, the game does nothing with Elden Root above the first few levels. In Buffy lore there’s a whole tribe of Cloud Dancer elves who make their homes above that as you say.

Rider- Thanks for the nit so I could quickly fix it. I think Mirri is right that her abrupt nature and heavily armored appearance would not be helpful to Buffy’s efforts at sweet talking the Mages Guild.

Renee- Cannibals. . . some of the Green Pact Clan tribes do abide by the meat mandate and ceremonially eat the flesh of their defeated enemies in the belief that it will transfer the strength of their foes to themselves. In fact, there is a quest involving a tribe poisoning themselves when on the verge of defeat by a quite traditional Green Pact tribe. When the victors ate the flesh of their vanquished, they were poisoned as well.

Grits- Yes, Buffy’s gradually getting her kit built up again. And you’re right, her first glimpse of Elden Root was a magical moment.

*

A reminder: In Buffy lore, most Bosmer belong to clans based upon common beliefs and characteristics. Those of the same clan who live together form tribes. This becomes relevant in today’s episode and Buffy will further review this – and some of the differences among clans - as we proceed through the book. By the way, we are now half way through this book.

* * *

Episode 24

Before entering the Mages Guild, I slipped behind a vine covered branch that hid me from view. I then conjured my storage trunk and changed from silk and buckskins into my tailored mage robe.

The Mages Guild was a very large open chamber that appeared to be formed or grown by the tree itself. There was no evidence that the hand of man or mer had shaped its natural bark-covered walls or planted the ferns and wildflowers that grew with abandon around its perimeter. Two large trees - each hosting a lush bloom of blue flowers - had chosen to grow from the floor in the middle of the chamber.

Ramps along both sides of the chamber rose to a second open level. The wall above that area was dominated by a window that appeared to be two or three horse lengths across. I imagined this was but one of the tiny dots of light I had seen along the tree’s trunk when I first saw Elden Root from a distance. As I looked up, I could see wispy clouds that kissed the chamber’s high ceiling.

Certainly, there was plenty of room for practicing all kinds of spells, as several mages in the central area of the guildhall were doing. It seemed most of the guild’s facilities were along the back wall of this level. I made my way there.

“Are you new here?”

The voice came from a blond Altmer, also in the robe of a mage. I looked up at her and replied, “Yes, I am called Buffy and have just arrived from Leyawiin.”

“I’m Andorie. I bid you welcome. You’ll find we host a unique guildhall, nestled here in the great tree.”

I placed my palms together in front of me, fingertips up, and briefly dipped my head in the greeting used by guild mages. “I thank you for your welcome, guildsister.”

She returned the gesture then led me a short distance to another mage. “Guildmagister Gabin Geric, this is Buffy, newly arrived from Leyawiin.”

The dark-haired Breton’s face was decorated by both mustache and goatee. "Welcome to our guildhall, Buffy,” he said. “Feel free to use the facilities during your stay. We have several empty beds if you require quarters?”

“That would be most gracious and appreciated, Guildmagister.”

Andorie excused herself and stepped away.

“May I ask what brings you to Elden Root and how long you expect to stay?”

“Of course, Guildmagister. I am a paladin and here on a quest for My Lady Kynareth. I hope to enjoy your hospitality for less than a tenday.”

His eyebrows climbed noticeably. “How may I assist your quest, Dame Buffy?”

“My mission overlaps with a concern of our guild. I therefore wish to inform Arch Mage Galerion before I proceed. A guildsister in Leyawiin advised me that he is expected in Elden Root soon. I would seek audience with him.”

“You have been informed correctly. We do indeed anticipate the Arch Mage’s visit within a few days. Since your quest is in service to a Divine, I’m sure he’ll try to accommodate you during his busy schedule here. Until he arrives, please avail yourself of our guildhall and feel free to ask Andorie or myself should there arise else you need."

"Thank you, Guildmagister.”

He was then drawn into another conversation by a pair of mages who were quite insistent that he settle some sort of argument.

So far so good. My stomach convinced me to find the guild’s cooking and pantry area and forage a midday meal of water, boar stew and bread. I spent much of the afternoon learning my way around the guild and meeting fellow mages. I learned that the only area of the guild separate from the large main chamber was the Guildmagister’s combination office and quarters. One of the mages explained it was the only area of the guildhall that allowed for private meetings. I was pleased to discover the guild had a fine library.

“Excuse me.”

I turned from the bookshelf I was investigating to find myself eye-to-eye with an elf no taller than I who possessed a young face and eyes the color of emeralds. Pale green hair spilled over the shoulders of her guild robe.

“I noticed your arrival earlier as I was practicing my spellcasting,” she said. “Your size suggests you are a fellow member of the Cloud Dancer Clan?”

“Yes, I am called Buffy.”

“My name is Valeria and I bid you welcome, Buffy, to both our guild hall and the great tree of my Elden Root Tribe.”

“Thank you, Valeria, I’m pleased to meet you.”

“My treethane wishes to be informed whenever a visiting Cloud Dancer arrives and I have done so. I’ve been instructed to relay her invitation for you to call upon her morning of the morrow.”

“I’d be honored, Valeria. To where shall I report?”

“Are you staying here in the guildhall?” After I nodded my reply, she added, “May I collect you midmorning then? I’ll escort you higher into the tree where our treethane holds court.”

“I’ll meet you here then and look forward to both meeting your treethane and seeing some of the upper areas of this magnificent tree.”

She smiled and relaxed, clearly relieved to have successfully completed her task. “Fellow Cloud Dancers are rarely seen away from whichever tree their tribe lives in, Buffy. May I ask your tribe?”

I winced. “I’m without a tribe. My tree was destroyed by fire during a thunderstorm and my parents were among the few to escape. I was still in the womb.”

Her eyes opened wide. “Oh Buffy, I’m so sorry to hear that. I cannot even imagine being stripped of my tree!”

“Thank you, Valeria. Having been raised among humans, please forgive my unfamiliarity with the customs of visiting your tree as a Cloud Dancer.”

She slowly shook her head and frowned with a hint of pity as she repeated, “Raised among humans. . . . Again, I’m sorry Buffy. Yes, when a Cloud Dancer visits the tree of a tribe not her own, a courtesy call upon the hosting tree’s thane is customary.”

“I am indebted to you, Valeria, for helping to spare me the appearance of rudeness.”

“Well, I hope you enjoy your stay here in Elden Root. Excuse me but I must report your answer to my treethane.”

“See you in the morning,” I said as I watched the small mage walk away.

*

Screenshot: Elden Root Mages Guild

[Renee]

I see, so it's "some tribes" that were cannibalistic. Not the entire province, I see. Sometimes the lorehounds make it sound as if every Bosmer in Valenwood is supposed to be a cannibal.

Clans + tribes, what a good idea.

Kiss the sky in that high chamber, literallly.

"Yes, I am called Buffy," she says to the Altmer. Why does she phrase it that way, and not "my name is Buffy?" --- I am called suggests ... I dunno. I know her name was given because of her habit of running around in the buff as a child. But the way she says "I am called" suggests she doesn't see Buffy as ...

Hmm, let's see if Arch Mage Galerion already somehow knows why Buffy is here.

'treethane!' --- So her parents escaped. Did they then go to Bravil, or not? Sorry, trying to learn some Buffy lore. Pretty sure she was an orphan, which means her parents did not go to Bravil.

Gorgeous picture of your elf's ponytail.

[haute ecole rider]

Thanks for the review of Bosmer culture and clans/tribes in Buffy lore. It's surprisingly close to what I had visualized for Lili so I really enjoyed this.

No nits this time, either there is none or I'm cross-eyed from running too many vet dungeons.

Really enjoyed your description of the Elden Root Mages Guildhall. It brought back memories of my early days in ESO.

Her eyes opened wide. “Oh Buffy, I’m so sorry to hear that. I cannot even imagine being stripped of my tree!”

Lili knows this feeling all too well, sadly . . .