Buffy - Book 4, Drodda the Icewitch Options

[Lopov]

"Could he. . . don’t be silly, Buffy."

He couldn't. No way.

A lovely story, especially the conversation between Buffeeee ( ) and Rian. We got an insight to Buffy's thoughts only, but I wonder, what his were - I assume that he was asking himself just as many quesions.

A kiss on the cheek and now she'll depart? Is there any better way to confuse the poor man?

[Acadian]

Previously- Buffy’s next piece of unfinished business was to catch up with Dagail in Leyawiin. The two Bosmer discussed numerous things ranging from what happened to Drodda, Buffy’s future in the Second Era, inquiries about Buffy from the city’s guard captain and that Dagail is not a fan of the Green Pact. A visit from Captain Rian Liore found him and Buffy alone on the guild’s porch where it became clear he was attracted to Buffy. While the attraction is mutual, Buffy managed to turn his invitation to dinner into a future rain check.

SubRosa- Dagail is always fun to write. I wrote her rebuke of the Green Pact with you in mind. I confess that nice saying about Bosmer, leaves and finding each other was borrowed from an ESO NPC named Eveli Sharp-Arrow.

Grits- ‘Strong, noble type’. . . well that is what drew Buffy to Savlian Matius so I figure it is indeed ‘her type’. I’m afraid Buffy’s meeting with Dame Praxedes will once again involve the Arch Mage.

Rider- This book does indeed open the door to loads of possibilities in the Second Era. Mirri’s quest involving her family is certainly a possibility. Regarding Rian, his scene just jumped out at us as another thread to perhaps draw Buffy to stay in the Second Era as well as complicate things for her. I confess to no serious future plans for the pair though.

Kane- Buffy wrestled with the elf/human lifespan challenge when she fell for her late mate in the Third Era. Alas, their time together was cut short before either could age noticeably. In Book Two, she struck up an interest with a Bosmer fellow who was the son of his tribe’s chief. When he learned of Buffy’s dragon totem he concluded she would likely be unable to produce him an heir and they parted ways. So she doesn't have a great track record with men.

Lopov- You bring up a couple of very important (to me) points. 1. Buffy openly spills her feelings to us in her writing, but every woman should have a little mystery to her. The way we do that is adhering strongly to her first-person perspective. We know everything she knows, but what is going on in the heads of others is how we provide a bit of mystery. 2. Regarding Buffy confusing Rian with mixed signals, that is exactly right! That’s because she was quite confused herself. She is drawn to him but that scares her. She’s also subconsciously afraid to commit to anything because she still grieves for her lost mate, hesitates to imply a future to Rian when she may or may not stay to follow up, and she’s always been easily confused when it comes to men and romance. I’m pleased that what I was trying to convey seemed to come through – thank you!

* * *

Episode 45

“Welcome to Vulkhel Guard on the island of Auridon!” chirped Dagail.

As soon as the teleportation disorientation cleared, I attuned myself to the wayshrine. I could smell the ocean, see the ships and hear the gulls of the harbor to my south. The rest of the city beckoned from the west. “Dagail, I’ve never seen so many Altmer in one place!”

She giggled. “You’re in the land of giants now. My Guildmagister said the Arch Mage should be here. This is where he normally resides when not traveling. The Vulkhel Guard branch is kind like the heart of the guild, where much of the important stuff happens. I’ll take you there and if he and the Palatinus are in town, I’ll leave you and wayshrine back to Leyawiin.”

“Thanks for the help, Dagail.”

My head was on a swivel, admiring the uniquely graceful architecture, as Dagail led me through the rather large and quite open city. I had heard the various isles of Summerset portrayed as idyllic. That description was not far off. It was a beautiful day and most of the carefully tended trees and shrubs hosted pink flowers that spilled their scent into the sea breeze. Finally, I heard Dagail announce, “Here we are!”

We stepped into the guildhall. After passing through an elegant and spacious lobby, we found ourselves in a large room completely walled with full bookshelves. “Valaste, this is Buffy.”

The robed Altmer wore her blond hair pulled back into a bun. She turned to face us. “Welcome, Dagail, and I’m pleased to meet you, Buffy.” The studious-looking mage eyed me over with what appeared to be curiosity. I was glad for my own robe, as it served to establish me as a guild mage among strangers. She dipped her head graciously. “I am the Master of Incunabula, responsible for maintaining the guild's libraries and arcanaea, as well as seeking out new and interesting works to add to the collection. How may I help you?”

Dagail injected, “Buffy, Valaste is a trusted friend, and well-informed when it comes to matters of the guild.”

“A pleasure to meet you, Valaste,” I said. “I have business with Dame Praxedes Rousseau. Can you tell me if she’s here?”

“The Palatinus?” she replied. “You are in luck. I’ll take you to her.”

“I’ll be heading back to Leyawiin now,” said Dagail.

I smiled and waved goodbye to my friend.

“Don’t be a stranger, Dagail,” said Valaste. She then turned to me. “Praxedes maintains an office here. Follow me.”

We discussed the scope of the branch’s prodigious library as the Altmer led me back through the lobby, then upstairs and down a wide corridor to an open door. We stepped inside. “Praxedes, Buffy here says she has business with you.”

The Breton looked up from her desk and smiled broadly. “Buffy! I’m pleased indeed to see you again. And thank you, Valaste, for helping Buffy find me.”

After Valaste departed, Praxedes asked that I close the door and motioned for me to sit in one of the two high-backed chairs in front of her desk. As I did so, I noticed eight candles burning in sconces around the walls of her office. A low bookshelf was behind her desk and above it hung a painting of the Dragon God of Time, Akatosh.

“I have many contacts, Buffy. I’m aware that Drodda has been stopped but would very much appreciate your firsthand account.”

I proceeded to brief the Palatinus, in some detail, on the sad tale of Dreanna-turned-Drodda and her eventual fate at the hands of Mirri and myself.

Praxedes listened without interruption as she studied my face over steepled fingers until I had finished my account and folded my hands in my lap. Finally, she spoke, “Perhaps the tragic story of a young mage seduced by the blessing and curse of an abundance of arcane talent. Maybe she began with admirable aspirations to control her gifts, but circumstances conspired to embitter her to the point where she embraced only the pursuit of magical power. I wonder though if perhaps she was possessed? Possibly cursed?”

“I am unsure as well, Praxedes. As a fellow paladin, you can appreciate that I felt intense evil radiating from her as we approached and during our battle. Yet the mortally wounded young woman I held in my arms for her last breaths died free of evil.”

She replied, “I suppose we’re unlikely to ever really know.” Tapping a finger on one of the parchments on her desk, she continued, “I’ve read the Windhelm Guildmagister’s report. Ciceri informs that you handled the matters of interviewing her mages and later advising them of their guildsister’s fate with grace and sensitivity.”

“I cannot forgive Dreanna,” I said soberly, “for destroying the Direfrost Clan – particularly in such a cruel and manipulative manner - but still. . . it brought me no joy to end her life.”

She looked up from the parchment and smiled sympathetically. “While you did what was necessary, it is clear that you care about your fellow guildmates – even those who stray. Your performance is exactly what I would hope for from a paladin and guildsister.” After a moment, she added, “Tell me, Buffy, do you know what the burning candles lining the walls of my office signify?”

Though surprised by the question, I did not hesitate as I replied, “Each candle is for one of the eight Divines. Collectively, they represent the Order of the Lamp.”

Praxedes raised an eyebrow. “I’m impressed. What else do you know of the Order?”

“Quite a bit, actually,” I replied. “Arch Mage Galerion founded the Order several years ago. His objective was a cadre of mage-knights who would be above temptation, corruption, power or politics. Their purpose would be to aid the guild in preventing the use of magic for foul purposes by practitioners both within and beyond the guild. He felt that mages who answer only to a Divine would be capable of what he asked and not be intimidated or influenced by secular considerations. . . not even by the Arch Mage himself. Therefore, he deemed that Knights Arcana would only be recruited from guild mages who were also paladins. Their efforts would be coordinated by a Palatinus, but a Knight Arcana’s first priority would always be to their patron Divine.”

“Buffy, you are indeed a mystery,” Praxedes said. “Either Arch Mage Galerion or I have designated every Knight Arcana since the Order was founded, and you are not among them. Yet, your compassion, performance and ability to stand unbowed before the Arch Mage all scream that you are a Knight Arcana.”

“As you told the Arch Mage,” I replied, “I am the instrument Kynareth chose to complete her quest. She is responsible for my presence here and has asked that I not share the details of how I came to be here.” I then added, “Surely you’re not considering offering me a position in the Order? Not after the reception I received from Arch Mage Galerion!”

“That’s exactly what I’m considering, Buffy. I would be negligent, however, to not assure myself of at least a bit of your background. I propose we ask Kynareth herself. I shall be satisfied with whatever she tells me. Even if it is simply to drop the matter. What say you?”

I tilted my head. “Praxedes, how would you propose we go about this?”

“If you allow it, Buffy, I will lay hands upon you and establish a healing bond in search of what Kynareth may share with me.”

I frowned but said, “Give me a moment to ask Her guidance.” I closed my eyes, seeking Kynareth’s wisdom. ’Trust our Divine, Buffy.’ silently offered Acadian. Though Kynareth did not speak to me, I found her answer in my heart. I opened my eyes. “Kynareth and I will entertain your probe. How much – if anything – she will share with you, I do not know.”

We both stood and Praxedes came around the desk to me. As she placed a hand on each of my cheeks, I reached up and did the same to her. “We’re both paladins,” I reminded her, “and this goes both ways.” She nodded and we established a mutual bond of healing between us.

[SubRosa]

Vulkhel Guard on the island of Auridon? I am going to guess that is in the Summerset Isles from the second name.

Hmm, I must confess that I had assumed the evil within Drodda was that of her own making. But now that Dame Praxis brings it up, I do wonder if she had 'help' in turning to the Dark Side. I am sure more than one Daedric Lord might quite easily fill that role.

I must confess that once the Dame explained the constitution of the Knights Arcana, I saw exactly where that was going. Buffy becoming an Arcane Knight in the Second Age would certainly be a natural fit, given that she is one in the 3rd Age!

Now this is interesting. Buffy is throwing the dice by performing the mind-meld with Dame Praxis. But she seems to be an honorable, reputable person. And besides, while being outed as a time travel might prove inconvenient, I don't think it is illegal or immoral or grounds for hostile action either. Though I am sure people would want to know who wins the next hundred Super Bowls, so that they can bet on the games...

[Grits]

That was a lovely introduction to Vulkhel Guard, one of my favorite cities.

I love the calm confidence that Buffy brings to her paladin life. The contrast with her uncertainty and confusion when faced with an attractive man who likes her is so endearing.

Oooh this is interesting! Buffy is of course a perfect candidate, and the Arch Mage can go fly a kite if he doesn’t like it. I wonder if Akatosh will have anything to share about Praxedes through the paladin healing bond?

[Kane]

So, it sounds like Buffy will be onto bigger things! That sounds like a very lofty council to be a part of!

[haute ecole rider]

@SubRosa: Yes, Auridon is the easternmost isle of the Summerset Isles - if you declare for the Aldmeri Dominion during ESO character creation, Vulkel Guard is your starting city. It's lovely, delightful and fun to visit - unless you're a tiny Bosmer who hates craning her neck to look taller people in the eye (that would be me. . . )

Back to Buffy! Dagail as chauffeur was fun! Wish I had her to call upon when I needed a new wayshrine!

So our Palatine is a devotee of Akatosh? Wonder how she and Julian would rub along?

Hmmm, Order of the Lamp, huh? Somehow it makes sense that Buffy would join this organization, and yet, somehow something of her butterfly spirit might chafe at any potential constraints that may be imposed. We'll have to see . . .

Somehow I just don't see Buffy and Rian becoming an item - not sure why. He certainly fits the chivalric heroic mold that made Savlian Matius such a favorite of mine/ours. Will have to wait and see, right?

Looking forward to seeing what happens next!

[macole]

From the swirling of leaves to the laying of hands, I am intrigued by how you describe mechanics of the magic.

It's been awhile since I've heard the Order of Lamps mentioned. I like the Knightly orders.

[Lopov]

The previous story began with Dagail's Buffeeee and this one with Dagail's chirping.

Kynareth and Acadian will without a doubt once more provide valuable advice for Buffy.

Let's see, how the second meeting with the Arch-Mage goes.


Also, we're in vacations on one of southern Croatian islands and there are lots of butterflies in the camp. Sometimes there are so many flying at once that on the path to our house, one literally walks "between" them, it's a really magical experience as they touch the skin. They always remind me of Buffy for some reason.

[Acadian]

Previously- Dagail escorted Buffy to the Mages Guildhall in Vulkhel Guard. Once confirming that Dame Praxedes was there, Dagail returned to Leyawiin. After briefing Praxedes on the sad story of Dreanna, the Palatinus turned the conversation to the Order of the Lamp and confessed she was considering offering Buffy an appointment to the Order, but needed to know a bit more about Buffy’s background. When Buffy clung to secrecy regarding how Kynareth arranged her presence, Praxedes proposed establishing a bond of healing between them and said she would be satisfied with whatever Kynareth did – or did not – share with her.

SubRosa- I tried to leave it uncertain as to whether Drodda turned to evil all by herself or her vulnerability drew some evil force to influence or even possess her. Buffy and Kynareth’s concern about too many folks knowing how Buffy got there is that it would make her a ripe target for every political leader in Tamriel – the power to know the future! Dagail the seer can at least claim she has no control over her visions as a seer. Buffy’s gut tells her that Praxedes is trustworthy and discrete discreet, and Kynareth seems to agree.

Grits- I hadn’t really thought of it that way but you are right! Buffy’s polish and speechcraft generally fail her when it comes to romance. In this next episode, we’ll get to see the Arch Mage again.

Kane- Once again, Buffy seems to be putting down roots to keep her in the Second Era without even realizing it.

Rider- The wayshrine system makes for some interesting possibilities. Buffy can live in her tree in Elden Root but pop over to Leyawiin for tea with Dagail any time she likes. When working up the details for the Order in Buffy lore, I was careful to include that a Knight Arcana’s first priority is always to their Divine. And since Kynareth (in Buffy lore) is the queen of whimsy, I think Buffy will continue to have quite a bit of freedom.

macole- Thanks for your kind words on some of our spell descriptions. I love the incompatibility of our fragile little elf being a knight.

Lopov- Yes, young Dagail seems to do a lot of squealing and chirping! We’ll get to see the Arch Mage again in today’s episode. Enjoy your holidays! How magical to dance among the butterflies!


Notes regarding Order of the Lamp- Per TES lore, Vanus Galerion founded the Order shortly after the Mages Guild was established but details are scarce, giving us lots of latitude. Per Buffy lore he required his Knights Arcana to also be paladins for the reasons described by both Buffy and Praxades. This is a good time to remind everyone that, at the urging of Palatinus Boderi Farano, Buffy was dubbed a Knight Arcana in the Order of the Lamp by Arch Mage Hannibal Traven after the Oblivion Crises at the end of Book 3. Déjà vu!

And now, on to our final episode.

* * *

Episode 46

I could feel Praxedes’ gentle, inquisitive probing. For my part, it was easy to confirm that she was everything she appeared to be: A paladin of Akatosh, driven by unwavering devotion to her knights and an obligation to temper the heavy hand and arrogant behavior of her Arch Mage. Eventually, we allowed the bond to fade and withdrew our hands.

As she returned to the chair behind her desk, I sat as well and asked, “Satisfied?”

She nodded. “Kynareth deigned to share with me how you came to be here. I understand and will respect your insistence on silence regarding the matter. I also realize now why you are so familiar with the Order of the Lamp. In fact, I suggest we formalize what we both know to be the case.“

The door to her office swung open without so much as a knock. “Praxedes, Queen Ayrenn has asked the guild for a court mage. I’d like your recommendations by – “

I recognized the voice of the Arch Mage. Praxedes stood. Vanus stopped speaking for a moment as soon as he saw me also rise above the back of my chair.

“You again?” he remarked with a frown. “I thought I dispatched you to seek out and slay Drodda. Have you given up already?”

I planted a hand on each hip, lifted my chin defiantly and replied, “If anyone ‘dispatched’ me, it was Kynareth, and I have completed Her quest.”

He closed the door behind him and slumped into the office’s third chair. “So. . . the wicked witch is dead.”

I remained on my feet and glared at him. “She was not a ‘wicked witch’. She was a young guildsister who, after a series of tragic accidents and being unable to control her gift, was seduced by the lure of its power. That it was necessary to kill her is no cause for celebration.”

He frowned again. “Well, the guild is obliged to you for eliminating the threat she posed. Praxedes, toss our witch-slayer some coin before she leaves.”

I could see Praxedes’ fury building as she placed both hands on her desk, leaned forward and, with a glare in her eyes that I’m quite sure matched my own, replied, “I shall do no such thing, Vanus! How long have you enjoyed the gift of paladins who are willing to assist the guild in spite of your overbearing attitude? I assure you that Buffy completed her quest with no interest in either your approval or gold from our coffers. Have you learned nothing? You asked for strong-willed, independent-thinking and incorruptible paladins that are willing to help our guild, yet express disdain when faced with exactly what you asked for! Before you stands a guild mage and paladin who is in every way the equal of any Knight Arcana in the guild. In fact, I was just trying to tender her an offer to join the Order when you barged in.”

Vanus blinked as I calmly sat down. Praxedes’ rebuke had been more eloquent than my temper ever could have allowed me to manage.

“Praxedes,” he finally replied, “surely you’re not serious. To be quite frank, she’s an insolent, loose fireball.”

Praxedes remained on her feet and it was clear that her ire had not diminished. “Because she does not wilt in the presence of the Great Mage? Vanus, did you not hear a word I said? Need I remind you – yet again - who insisted that your Knights Arcana be paladins? You correctly believed that only paladins could be relied upon to have the strength of will and character to brook no intimidation from mages, guildmagisters, or even the Arch Mage. Dame Buffy has, through her word and deed, demonstrated the courage, resourcefulness, prowess, compassion and strength of character that we ask of our Knights. Rather than insulting her, you’d be wise to agree with my judgement here. That is why you asked me to be your Palatinus, is it not?”

“Excuse me,” I injected when Praxedes took a breath. “Since this discussion is about me, perhaps I might have some say in the matter?”

The eyes of both Arch Mage and Palatinus turned from each other to me.

“As we’re being frank here, Arch Mage, I’m not exactly wetting myself to be one of your knights. The only reasons I would even consider it are because I endorse the concept of why you formed the Order and admire the obvious and caring leadership of your Palatinus.”

Vanus’ gaze shifted between me and Praxedes. Slowly, one corner of his mouth turned up slightly and I believed I even saw a small sparkle in his eyes. “Arguing with one Knight Arcana is challenging enough. Even the Great Mage, however, cannot withstand the withering fire produced by two of you.”

Praxedes lifted an eyebrow. “Arch Mage, does that mean what I believe you just said?”

“Yes, Praxedes.” He then turned to me. “Welcome to the Order, Buffy. Do you have any requests regarding your ceremony?”

“Thank you, Excellency. I have questions for Dame Praxedes, but if I accept this honor, I would ask to be dubbed by her in a private ceremony.”

“Granted,” he replied. “I’ll leave you both to it then, and Praxedes, I’d like your recommendation regarding a court mage for the Queen by noon.” He opened the door and, on his way out, turned to add, “And Praxedes? Don’t question my judgement again. I’m wise enough to have hired you.” With that, he was gone.

Praxedes heaved a sigh as she lowered herself into her chair.

“My head is spinning,” I confessed. “What just happened?”

The Palatinus chuckled. “The Arch Mage and I both humbly ask that you join the Order of the Lamp.”

“Would you be my primary contact for Order business?” I asked rather apprehensively.

“Yes.” She smiled knowingly. “I suffer the Arch Mage so that, generally speaking, our knights don’t have to.”

“Then I would be honored to join your Order, Palatinus.”

She stood, as did I. Calling magic that I recognized as conjuration, an arming sword materialized in her hand. As she came around her desk, she said, “Buffy would you take a knee?”

I did so.

She gently touched the tip of her blade upon one shoulder. “It is my high privilege to dub you into the Order of the Lamp.” She moved the blade to my other shoulder. “From this day forward, you shall be known as a Knight Arcana.” She unsummoned her blade, smiled and said, “Please rise, Dame Buffy, and welcome to the Order.”

As I stood, I saw, for the second time in my life, the Order’s candles – one for each Divine – brightly shine their approval. “Thank you, Palatinus.”

Epilogue

I reveled in the warmth of the verdant jungle that wrapped itself around us as Superian and I followed the narrow trail. Birds and monkeys serenaded us from above as Willow happily darted among the trees, gorging on the abundance of flying insects. The rich smell of moist dirt filled my nostrils, along with a plethora of scents from flowers, mosses, herbs and mushrooms that would tantalize any alchemist. Though we were over half a league from Elden Root, gaps in the tall ferns, oaks and palms occasionally afforded a glimpse of the mighty tree. My tree.

“With the defeat of Drodda, the danger to our dragon-mare has passed, Acadian. Our task in the Second Era is complete.”

“Aye,” he replied, “and I feel your trepidation over the decision we both know Kynareth will ask of you when next you see her.”

“Yes,” I admitted, “but that’s not a decision I will make without your counsel.”

“I am grateful that you seek my opinion, Buffy, though we both know what my counsel, as well as Kynareth’s, will be. Indeed, it is the same advice you would give yourself.”

“And that would be?” I asked.

“Follow your heart,” he urged. “What does it say to you?”

I smiled at my old paladin’s wisdom. “I have many friends in the early Fourth Era. . . but I have earned some wonderful new ones here as well. Though Vanus Galerion is overbearing, self-centered and thoughtless of others, his vision for the Mages Guild ensures it will flourish, whereas we both know what the Fourth Era bodes for the guild.” An opening in the canopy gave me another view of where Elden Root’s upper branches met the drifting white clouds. “I have a home here, Acadian, among a group of fellow Cloud Dancers that have welcomed me into their tribe. A home where I truly feel I belong.”

We rode in silence for a time before I added, “Perhaps my decision will not be so difficult after all.”

~The End~

This post has been edited by Acadian: Jul 2 2025, 05:17 PM

[haute ecole rider]

*Sighs*

The end indeed!

Loved how both Praxes and Buffy stood up to that insufferable excuse of an Arch Mage! Makes me wonder if Shalidor was the same way when he was alive . . .

Anyways, I'm glad Buffy is staying with her tree in the Second Era. I have a hard time seeing her make her way through 4E Tamriel and its time of chaos. At least now she's home among her trees and her people. Where she belongs. Talk about being born out of time!

And *soapbox time* not exactly a nit, but I feel obligated to call this out. I suspect spell check does not differentiate between these two.

Discrete means separate. As in the hourglass contained discrete grains of sand.

What is actually meant is Discreet. It means to be quiet, unnoticed. As in a spy must be discreet in their choice of company.

Per Merriam-Webster:

What to Know
Discrete means "separate," while discreet means "unobtrusive." Both words have the same etymology coming from the Latin discretus which means "to keep separate" or "to discern." An easy trick to tell them apart is to remember is that the "e's" are separated by the "t" in "discrete."

I hope this helps everyone!

*Gets off Soapbox*

What a satisfying story, and an introduction to 2E Buffy! I'm glad you wrote this, and even happier that you gave us all the chance to read this story. It is true to Buffy's spirit, and gave depth to one of my favorite Oblivion characters!

[Grits]

Oh my goodness, fireworks in Palantinus Praxedes’s office! I love how the Arch Mage was won over by Buffy standing up to him again. I imagine that he put Praxedes through a lot before he decided she was the one for the job.

I love that Buffy chose a swift and simple dubbing ceremony. Dame Buffy of the Second Era!

My tree.

A home where I truly feel I belong.

How wonderful that Buffy’s mission through time has brought her home. Between her role in the Order of the Lamp, her partnership with Mirri, and her membership in a Cloud Dancer tribe there should be no shortage of adventure. Oh, and also isn’t there a captain in Leyawiin who is hoping for a date?

Thank you for sharing this beautiful story! It has truly been a delight!

[ghastley]

You have really nailed Vanus Galerion in this one. Overbearing, but not stupid. And if he doesn't push his underlings, they won't learn to push back.

Of course she's staying. But she does have new loose ends ...

[SubRosa]

Once again, Praxedes is a far more pleasant individual to spend time with than Galerion. Dispatched indeed! He ain't dispatchin' shit...

To be quite frank, she’s an insolent, loose fireball.
He has clearly never met anyone who is insolent, loose, nor a fireball in his life if he thinks that is it!

Well that went as well as it could. Galerion is lucky he has Praxedes to act as a salve for his abrasive nature. Which I can see is not accidental. He at least plainly understands that he rubs people the wrong way, and knows that he needs someone who does not if he wants to make the guild work.

OTOH, good storytelling requires conflict, and Vanus Galerion delivers.

And Buffy is Lamped up for a second time. I believe that answers the question of whether or not she will remain the 2nd Age.

[Lopov]

A final story already? Time sure flies fast. I still remember the opening as it had happened yesterday. Well, at some point every good story comes to an end though I do hope that the ending is merely the new beginning of the coming book.

Nice outro!

The Arch-Mage didn't have any chances agains Buffy and Praxedes.

I hope that we'll see more of Rian in the future and maybe Buffy will even learn to love again.

[macole]

A very satisfying ending. Buffy survives her greatest challenge, the test of the Arch-mage and is accepted as Knight Arcana. Vanus' wry smile tells me that this was his objective all along. I think Vanus knows more than he lets on.

"...the wicked witch is dead" I can hear the munchkins singing.