Buffy - Book 4, Drodda the Icewitch Options

[haute ecole rider]

Interesting explanation of how to wield the staff - it does jibe with what I've seen with my ESO Argis (my magplar). I really liked the reminder of what each spell does.

Good advice to have a tank in front of Buffy at all times - it is something Lili understands very well after her decades of adventuring around Nirn!

Looking forward to the challenges of time travel! Wonder how Akatosh will appear, if he will appear, in this story!

[SubRosa]

I had to look for a few moments to find Buffy in the Blocking pic! That is a big shield for a little elf!

Holy Light sounds like something Silverlight would use. Chanelling the goddess-given power of elemental Light to vanquish Darkness. I played her as a Light Domain cleric in Baldur's Gate 3, and she was really impressive.

A continuous healing spell on another person sounds like an awesome thing for a party-based game. Your back-liner healer could cast that on the party tank, and they could hold the line forever against the enemy.

It sounds to me like Buffy might want to become pals with someone in the 2nd Age such as a Titanborn...

I wonder if traveling back in time will involve a blue police box, or a phone booth? Or perhaps a hot tub?

[Grits]

How fun to hear Kynareth explain Buffy’s new spells and abilities, starting with the great Spell Power Cure. The names Blazing Spear and Radiant Glory give us a good idea what a bearer of Holy Light looks like in a fight! Delighted to see Buffy putting her spells together into a combat rhythm.

I wonder how… I wonder who… I wonder what… I guess I will be patient and wait to find out!!

[Lopov]

Buffy's done with being schooled about her new spells. I bet that she remembered it all but I'll need to read the story again a few more times to keep it all memorized.

Allies are often mentioned in the story...I wonder if that's a hint for things to come, that maybe Buffy will indeed find some allies to fight Drodda...

[Renee]

Thanks for posting the two pictures.

Yes I have noticed when sometimes her speech shifts from informal to more formal, I meant the actual structure of words though, the way verbs, nouns, adjectives (etc.) are arranged. There's a difference between how they're arranged when Buffy speaks compared to Kynareth, for instance, and vice versa. Kynareth also has a slightly 'different' way of speaking (compared to our society, 2024 Earth) yet she doesn't get quite as ....archaic, I guess.

I'd need to get scientific/more specific to explain what I'm noticing. Maybe I'll do that later, and then message you.

That's deep, the way she receives new spells. How many new spells? We've got 1). Spell Cure Power, which contains a dual effect, nice.

2). Regeneration, very powerful! It's got an area effect, seems like.
3). Cleansing Ritual also has an area effect.
4). Healing Ward is more specific. Can cast on self or specifically on someone else.

----------------

“Ranged heals! Long have I dreamed of such...."

Okay, this is what I meant up above. "Adjective noun! Adjective auxiliary-verb pronoun verb preposition noun..." Especially the second sentence. In our society, most folks might structure that like "I have dreamed about those..." or "I have dreamed about them..." So... "Pronoun auxiliary-verb preposition noun..."

That might be a little off, those terms. Been decades since I've been in school. But it's the structuring I'm referring to. I don't notice Kynareth arranging words the same way, even though she's otherworldly (and therefore is going to speak differently than we do) and also in the same story as your elf. And certainly not Mazoga or any of her other mortal friends back home. Hope that made sense! It's like the difference between Jan and Branwen, except I'm comparing a mortal and a god who reside in another realm entirely.

“Yes, but healing from distance is quite generic. It will keep an ally in the fight but is a far cry from the accurate diagnoses and precise healing you can accomplish by laying on hands.”

Kynareth doesn't get as exotic with her wording. We, in our society, might put the article "A" in front of 'distance', that's the main difference. It's not wrong that Kynareth doesn't do so, but it's also a slight deviation from us. So, that's what I'm trying to say. Buffy goes a little bit further away from modern Earth speaking than Kyne.

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Yes, I noticed the lack of offensive magic, as well. Can she still use her bow, or does being a Holy Avenger forfeit this ability? -- Blazing Spear sounds wicked, but Buffy's a bowgirl! 🏹

Radiant Glory = more awesomeness. Problem is it uses mana. Is it me, or does the glass cannon elf seem like she's searching?

[Acadian]

Previously- Buffy’s training continued as Kynareth shared her spells of Holy Light, explained their use and gave the young paladin a chance to practice them in conjunction with her new staff, Carsomyr. As the day concluded, Kynareth was satisfied with Buffy’s progress and announced that the following morning, they would discuss and schedule arrangements for her actual travel to the Second Era.

*

Rider- I’m glad you enjoyed our attempt to explain how Buffy’s staff works. You are absolutely right that Buffy, like Lili, is going to want someone wearing and wielding steel in front of her. Akatosh has provided Kynareth the power/knowledge she needs to accomplish her task of moving Buffy to the Second Era, so we won’t actually be meeting him.

SubRosa- Buffy’s shield is not quite as big as the pic made it look since the pic had the shield so close to the camera. Here’s another shot taken from more of a ‘Does this make my butt look big?’ angle. Yes, I figure Buffy’s Holy Light is inspired by the sun, just as Silverlight’s magic is inspired by the moon. The healing spells can be helpful in a fight indeed although there are some powerful foes that crank out enough damage to overwhelm. And you’re right – she’s gonna need someone sturdier than herself to help.

Grits- Buffy and Kynareth will discuss the when and where of her upcoming time travel in today’s episode. Then another episode to say her goodbyes. Finally it’ll be off to the Second Era in the episode after that! Buffy will describe the time travel experience from her perspective of course.

Lopov- Though I did use specifics in describing Buffy’s new suite of spells, my intent was to impart a ‘feel’ for what they, in combination with her staff, can accomplish in general. There actually won’t be a great deal of combat in this book and when there is, my plan is to refresh what her spells do as she uses them. So please don’t worry about trying to retain the details of this past episode.

Renee- Fun observations on the speech patterns! I confess, a good deal of it is subconscious; that is it just flows out of Buffy that way since she is of a different world. In the episode before this one Buffy’s weapon (Carsomyr) knew that she would be a paladin of Holy Light and Carsomyr determined that a magic staff would suit her better than a bow at this point. So she’s a staff wielding mage instead of a bow wielding mage for now. Blazing spear is a spell that Buffy casts through her staff causing a magical spear of Holy Light to launch to the target area as described. Buffy is constantly evolving – a necessity, given that she is my one and only character and needs to adventure for many years across numerous games. Her ability to control foes with illusion magic will be gone in the Second Era, but her ability as a healer has blossomed. In the Second Era, she’ll rely on a sturdy companion up front to help control foes, and that will work because of her ability to heal them in combat. So she is currently evolving into a combat healer. She’ll use a staff and Holy Light spells through this book. In the longer future though, she’ll learn other spells and Carsomyr will shift between bow and staff to best support whichever suite of spells she is using.

* * *

Episode 10

The following morning, I met Kynarath at our usual spot just north of Bravil on the shore of the Niben. We sat side by side watching the sun climb the trees across the river.

“My Lady?”

“Dame Buffy?”

I giggled. “I’m just a little Bosmer. You can call me Buffy, you know.”

“Of course I can. I was teasing you for calling me ‘My Lady’.” Her smile was bright, her eyes sparkled and her tone was light.”

I tilted my head. “What should I call you then, if not My Lady? Sky Goddess?”

“By Dibella’s silky breeches, I should hope not!” She gently elbowed me. “How about Kynareth? Or perhaps. . . .”

“Or perhaps what, My La- I mean Kynareth?”

She hesitated before she spoke, “I’ve watched you all your life, Buffy. I know how much you treasure your friends. Not to be presumptive, but I can think of no higher title.”

“You, who intervened when I alone could not heal Sir Agronak and my own life was in danger? You, who believed in me enough to choose me as your paladin? You, who are spending so much time helping and training me that I might successfully save our dragon’s spirit and the life of my precious mare?” I was blinking back tears by the time I said, “You have earned that title and more. . . my friend.” Without thinking, I hugged her. She hugged me back.

When we drew apart, I noticed her eyes were moist – like mine. Finally she said, “We have much to discuss today and I believe you started to ask a question?”

I smiled as I looked at her differently. I would not quest for her because she was a Divine and I was her paladin; I would do so because she was my friend. “Yes, My- I mean Kynareth. You said every one of your paladins has used the weapon I now carry. . . . Could that mean you only have one paladin at a time?”

“That is exactly what it means, Buffy. Akatosh, Stendaar and Mara sponsor many paladins at the same time – usually more than a score. Despite being relatively new to the Divines, likewise with Talos. Arkay and Zenithar normally support half a dozen or more. Julianos and Dibella choose to maintain but a handful. And I. . . well, I have no more than one paladin at a time. Even during the Great Dragon War, the paladins who fought alongside Acadian were sponsored by other Divines. On occasion I have gone centuries with no paladin at all for, like you, I grieve hard. When I lost Acadian, I cried a blizzard of tears that blankets much of Skyrim to this day. During the time to which you will be traveling, I was in such a period so you will be the only paladin of Kynareth then just as you are currently.”

“Moving on,” she continued, “I know you were an avid reader at the University and that you have the ability to recall anything you have read. I presume you are familiar with the political situation of the Second Era? Such knowledge will be invaluable in allowing you to more discretely adapt to that time.”

“I think so.” I closed my eyes while my mind sped through the pages of relevant texts. After a few moments I looked up at Kynareth and was able to add, “There are three alliances all battling the Empire – as well as each other - for control of the Imperial City. Damage to the city and surrounding areas in Cyrodiil has been devastating and the war even ripples out, to a much lesser degree, into the respective provinces those factions control.”

“Go on,” she instructed.

“The Aldmeri Dominion alliance controls the area to the southwest,” I continued, “comprised of the homelands of the Altmer, Bosmer and Khajiit. The Ebonheart Pact is an alliance of Nords, Dunmer and Argonians and controls most provinces to the east. Finally, the Daggerfall Covenent operates from the northwest provinces of the Bretons, Redguards and Orcs. Some Tamriel-wide organizations, including churches and most guilds, have been able to operate with a good degree of neutrality.”

Kynareth nodded approvingly. “That will certainly suffice for all but the most intense political discussions. Are you familiar with how wayshrines were used in the Second Era?”

“Again, I believe so,” I began. “Today there but few wayshrines and they are used mostly as Divine worship sites. Up until early in the Third Era, however, there were many more and they were used like a form of portal or transitus network, though I’ve no idea what type of magic was involved. Touching one would attune the user to that particular wayshrine and enable them to instantly return to it from any other wayshrine. Who built them is not clear but many are of standing stone type construction.”

“Yes, Buffy, that will allow you to avoid asking questions that result in either an interrogation into your origins or an accusation of being daft. Let us move on,” she continued, “to a detail of the actual time travel. We know when, but where shall we send you? I know not the precise location of Drodda beyond the likelihood that she is collocated with the frozen corpse of Phantom somewhere in Skyrim. Skyrim in the Second Era is not kind to Bosmer, however, and I think you would be well served to arrive in friendlier territory. That should allow you time to get more comfortable with the spells I have given you and to establish some connections.”

I thought for a moment. “I’ll be trying to track down a rogue mage . . . so, perhaps the Mages Guild might be a good place to start. Oh, that reminds me,” I added, “Guildmagister Dagail, of Leyawiin somehow knows something of my quest, for she urged me to seek her out at the Leyawiin guildhall after you ‘send me to where and when I must go’.”

Kynareth smiled. “Ah yes. There are things about Dagail beyond even my ken, but her ability as a seer is without equal. I believe Leyawiin would be an excellent place to arrive. Well, probably on the outskirts I suppose. You will be naked after all.”

“When do I go?” I asked.

“The sooner you leave,” she replied, “the less you will need to rush things after you arrive, for you will want to proceed in a measured manner. Remember, it is likely half a year or more before Drodda is able to permanently damage Phantom’s spirit, and you will likely get but one chance to stop her. Do not rush things. In short answer to your question, Buffy, I think you should leave as soon as you are able to complete your goodbyes. Just remember that, on both ends for differing reasons, I would urge you to avoid discussion of time travel with anyone unless it is absolutely essential to the success of your quest.”

“Understood,” I said. “Boderi Farano will know what has happened when I disappear, and I think she’ll be pleased for me. I’ll send a letter to Sirs Mazoga and Agronak; I’d cry and perhaps even question my mission if I did that in person. That leaves my friends in Bravil and that will be tearful enough.” I paused for a moment. “How about the day after tomorrow?”

“That will be fine, Buffy. Let us meet here but at sunset. I want the cover of darkness to help mask your arrival. It will give you a bit of cover to get yourself sorted out. And find some clothes.”

[Renee]

I notice stuff like speech patterns, sorry I rambled so much. Yes, a lot of times when dialog occurs it's semi-subconscious for me too, except nowadays I notice this sort of stuff. While writing, it's sort of like automatic writing/control is dropped so a person can speak in his/her voice (not mine). While editing, I become conscious of their speech patterns.

I had a character long ago named Mycharonna who was insane and wrote crazy poetry, she wrote in a voice waaaay different from mine, or any of my characters! - That's when I began to pay attention to this stuff. We really can hear our characters speak (hear their voices in our heads) during a story/during gaming, right?

I see, no bow (Edit: for now).

That is true. Buffy's appeared in other gameworlds/realms, so she needs to adapt. "Her ability to control foes with illusion magic will be gone in the Second Era" That's fine. " In the longer future though, she’ll learn other spells and Carsomyr will shift between bow" YESSSSsssss!!! 🏹

The "My lady" conversation had me rolling! Mostly because this awkward set of replies occurs with a goddess.

Interesting. She's not doing this to obey an Aedra, she's doing this quest (these quests?) out of friendship.

Kynareth "lost" Acadian, what does that mean?

Buffy's got a photographic memory. Practically MENSA-level in our terms, Huh. Wow, the political arena of the 2nd Era is complicated!

Collocated! a word that is habitually juxtaposed with another with a frequency greater than chance:
"collocates for the word “mortgage” include “lend” and “property". That's a new word for me.

Interesting that she's not to discuss what's to happen as she time-travels to the past. Almost a non-disclosure agreement. So yeah, some folks, very few, are going to know what happened to her. But there's a long list of folks who know your elf, but won't have a clue why it's been X amount of time since they've seen her. Rumors will sprout, no doubt.

This post has been edited by Renee: Oct 23 2024, 04:37 PM

[haute ecole rider]

I smiled at the "how shall I address thee?" conversation at the beginning of this chapter. Much like Sten struggling between "Ma'am" and "Boss" when deep down, so deep even he doesn't know it yet, he wants nothing more than to call her "Lili" or something sweeter It's a common quandary whenever two people of very different classes/castes end up working together closely as more or less equals.

Interesting that most Divines will field an army of paladins, but Kyne (as she is called in Skyrim) has only one at a time. Hmmmm - I wonder if it implies that she sees each paladin more as a living breathing individual and less as a tool to strategically use?

I also enjoyed the brief history of wayshrines from 2E to 3E - especially since in the Gold Coast DLC I find wayshrines in the same locations as those in the Gold Coast TES IV Oblivion. Good explanation of how they deteriorated/evolved from points of magical travel to places of informal worship.

Ah, so we are off to 2E Leyawiin! I'm sure Buffy will be impressed by how shiny and new it looks compared to the second shabbiest city in 3E Cyrodiil!

But first, farewells to our Bravil friends - a sad but necessary prelude to our next Buffy adventure. How typical of Buffy to think of her friends first before starting out.

[Lopov]

My-La-Kynareth sounds fine too.

A nice description of how "things" work in the Second Era. Since I've been away from ESO for a long time myself, I'm thankful for some refreshments / explanations.

Looks like that all that now remains is to say goodbye to her dear friends and depart on a journey...

This post has been edited by Lopov: Oct 25 2024, 08:06 PM

[SubRosa]

"By Dibella's silky breeches" is one I will have to remember.

That is quite the revelation that Kynareth only has a single paladin. It really is quite an honor then. You have to be special to her. Not just "The Help".

It's funny, because even though I usually roll January as a paladin in games that have the class, I do not know who January would be a paladin of in Tamriel. In January's own world it is simple enough: Freyja. In D&D she is usually pledged to Selune, since she the light shining through darkness. Or to Ilmater, as he is a god of compassion. But there is not really a goddess of magic and death and love all in one being in the Elder Scrolls. I think she would have to serve the entire pantheon of Divines all at once.

Well that gives a brief summary of what Buffy will be walking into back in the 2nd Era. Plus an idea where to start thanks to Dagail. It looks like we are going to be on our way back in time!

[Grits]

I smiled as I looked at her differently. I would not quest for her because she was a Divine and I was her paladin; I would do so because she was my friend.

I adore this very Buffy moment!

When I lost Acadian, I cried a blizzard of tears that blankets much of Skyrim to this day.

And here Kynareth becomes a real, feeling entity to me. Beautiful!

That was a great summary of the Second Era Tamriel political situation. Neat to think of wayshrines deteriorating and turning to different use over the centuries.

Hugs to Buffy as she tackles her farewells.

[Acadian]

Previously- The relationship between Kynareth and her paladin continued to grow and deepen. Together, they decided that, after a couple days for Buffy to say her goodbye’s, the elf’s initial destination in the Second Era would be the outskirts of Leyawiin.

*

Renee- Buffy and Acadian have shared many lives in numerous worlds and times. How the two of them manifest each time changes. Buffy knows this but Acadian is the keeper of their memories when it comes to details. She knows that their last life was in Tamriel during the Merethic Era and Acadian was a paladin of Kyne. Acadian and his ice dragon mount (Phantom) died during the Great Dragon War. That is what Kynareth was referring to in losing Acadian. Buffy’s role during that life is unknown to her. . . but she will learn it by the end of this book.

Rider- I like your comparison of the delicate dance between Lili and Sten with Buffy and Kynareth. In this past episode, Buffy learned a great deal about how much Kynareth cares for her paladins and Buffy in particular. The change in their relationship to friends brings things to a new level for Buffy, for Kynareth is right about how important friendship is to Buffy.

Lopov- Buffy will scrupulously avoid entanglement in what she will consider a counterproductive war. Relying on the neutrality of the Mages Guild will help her. I did want to give an overview of Second Era politics though and I think it was reasonable of Kynareth to make sure Buffy has an idea of the situation and how things work before she arrives. You are right – Buffy will say her goodbyes in today’s episode, then depart in the next.

SubRosa- As you know, Buffy doesn’t do things for gods, empires guilds or organizations. What motivates her to action is the needs of those she holds dear. No surprise then that, by bringing their relationship to one of close friends instead of Divine and worshipper, Kynareth has earned Buffy’s devotion. At the same time, it seems the little elf has quite wormed her way into Kynareth’s heart as well. Heh, I think you’re right in that Freyja would need the entire Eight/Nine to fully focus her nature.

Grits- Thank you for highlighting the significant development between Buffy and Kynareth as the two have grown into friends. Though she’s a Divine, Kynareth comes equipped with a full range of emotions. I believe the Divines chose well in matching Buffy with Kynareth.

* * *

Episode 11

I spent much of the following day writing – and rewriting – a letter to Mazoga. Finally, after many drafts, I folded and wax-sealed the tear-stained missive and placed it in the guild’s post, care of Guildmagister Sigrid at Kvatch. I’d be gone by the time my large pal got it. That was just as well.

Late afternoon found me at Nilawen’s general store. “I was just closing up, Buffy. Daenlin is picking me up for dinner soon.”

“Romance in the air, is it?” I teased.

I was stunned by the color that immediately blossomed above her neckline and the look she gave me to realize that I had stumbled into not being far off the mark. How had I not seen this coming?

“Well,” she said still blushing, “I lost my husband before you were born and have grieved long enough. Besides, you know better than I what a good elf Daenlin is.”

I grinned. “I’m ecstatic for you both!”

Daenlin came into the shoppe and looked from me to Nilawen.

“She knows, dear,” said Nilawen.

I bounced from one to the other, hugging them both. I fervently hoped that, by having each other, it would ease what I had to tell them.

“I’m afraid. . . I have something to tell you both.”

“That sounds serious,” said Nilawen as she hung out her closed sign to avoid being disturbed.

“There’s no easy way to put this,” I began. “Kynareth has called me to a quest. I leave tomorrow and I can say neither where I’m going nor when I may return.”

My words were met by stunned silence. Nilawen finally spoke first, “Buffy, tell me, I’m sure that Kynareth has good reason for asking this of you but is it what you want?”

I nodded. “It is. The quest involves rescuing a dear friend.”

“Then you go with our blessing and best wishes.” Nilawen sighed. “You know you’ve been like a daughter to me.”

“I’ve felt like a daughter to you as well. You’re the one who delivered me into Tamriel. You were always a set of welcoming arms after my mother died.”

Finally, Daenlin spoke, his eyes moist. “I knew this day would come, my apprentice. Knowing I had a hand in raising and training the accomplished young elf who stands before me now. . . well, that is the greatest accomplishment I could ever aspire to. I – we’ll – miss you terribly but we love you, little butterfly. Enough to set you free, for we know you must fly.”

“Thank you, Master. Your guidance in life, woodscraft, respecting the spirits of forest creatures, the bow and so much more will serve me well as long as I live. For if Nilawen has been like a mother to me, you have filled the role of the father I never got to know.”

After a long three-way hug, and with tears in my eyes, I let myself out of the shoppe.

*

We were seated for breakfast the next morning at the guildhall when Kud-Ei tapped a spoon against the side of her teacup several times. “Fellow mages, Buffy has something she would like to tell you.”

All eyes fell to me. “Dear friends,” I began, “as you know, I am Kynareth’s paladin. It’s not an easy life but it is one I chose. My Lady has called upon me to embark on a quest. I’m afraid I cannot share the details of where this will take me or even when I may return. I leave this evening, however. Please know that I treasure the friendship each of you has shown me over the years and shall miss you all, my guildsisters – and brother. I know that, with Kud-Ei’s guidance and your efforts, the Magic Emporium will soon flourish.”

After a few moments of silence, I heard, “Well, dear roommate, I feel like someone just peed in my porridge.”

Ever insightful, Ardaline’s joke was just what was needed. There were chuckles followed by a couple ‘Me too’s’. The conversation was awkward, but Kud-Ei helped steer it toward questions about Kynareth and being a paladin that I could readily answer.

After breakfast, the mages went to work. Their tasks involved executing Kud-Ei’s vision of turning the guildhall into a large private magic shoppe. I helped some but, by midday, went upstairs to go through my belongings. I placed my mage pouch of holding on Ardaline’s bed. Though the contents were inconsequential, I knew any mage would be grateful for the pouch itself. It was then I remembered the enchanted toe ring on my left foot that had been gifted to me by a dear friend. I stepped out of my silk slippers, removed the ring and sighed. It was adorned with a tiny butterfly, and its potent resist frost enchantment had eased my path in cold places many times. Though too small for Ardaline, perhaps she could wear it on a neck chain or have it resized. I slipped it into the mage pouch on her bed.

After summoning and opening my storage trunk I realized there was nothing of benefit to anyone else in there. I retrieved the black headband worn by Savlian Matius and pressed it to my cheek. Though the stains of his sweat and blood were still there, his scent had long faded. After a good cry, I reluctantly placed it back in the trunk. There were lots of clothes, but I knew of no mage small enough to be interested in clothing that was cut for a woman but sized for a child. As I rummaged through my footwear, I recalled the many times I had admonished Daenlin or Acadian that it’s not possible for a woman to have too many shoes. Again though, I was sure no one had any use for silk slippers or buckskin boots that were sized for a child. I closed and unsummoned the trunk. “It’s only things, right, Acadian?”

“True enough,” he agreed. “I believe they wear clothes in the Second Era. You will just have to go shopping.”

That brought a faint smile to my lips. “Thanks for trying to cheer me up. As long as I have you and Superian, I’ll be fine.”

[ghastley]

But the Second Era doesn't have a Goddess Store! Where will she shop?

I suspect she won't have any difficulty finding underwear, but may find the choice to be limited.

[haute ecole rider]

Hmm, shopping in the Second Era - I suspect Buffy will find plenty of options to like! Especially once she discovers she can dye them any color she likes (green and brown, I know)

Aww, Nilawen and Daenlin! Julian still holds a soft spot for the proprietor of the Archer's Paradox - no one else has ever told her "I'm so happy to see you I could burst!"

And Ardaline comes up with the perfect but unexpected humor to Buffy's news. I too, chuckled at that remark of hers.

And farewell not only to friends, but to mementos that hold poignant memories for our little Bosmer. So sad to put them aside, but it's part of moving on.

Looking forward to time traveling in the next installment!

[SubRosa]

I am wondering if Buffy's letter to Mazoga is simply addressed to "Pal". Or signed that way.

Daelin and Nilawen are getting busy? That is awesome! Especially since they are already Buffy's surrogate parents.

And more goodbyes, to both people, and to the little touchstones that one collects in a lifetime. Well now, that is an upbeat ending though. We will have to go shopping!

[Renee]

That's so heavy. Writing a letter you know will be read once you're gone.

Stunned silence, yes. From their perspective, what does that even mean? Kynareth? You're communicating with an aedra?? Hmm, well they don't seem that surprised. They seem to know already such an occurrence can happen at any time, seems like.

She's leaving treasured items behind, this is sad.

"I believe they wear clothes in the Second Era..."

[Lopov]

Sometimes jokes or cheerful remarks are exactly, what's needed in times of departures or sadness. I really like two such ones in the story, the first remark from Ardaline and the second one, that there's probably clothes in the Second Era.

Daenlin knows that there aren't any perfect arrows but maybe he found a perfect woman. Or at least close to perfection. Because pure perfection can be boring.

[Grits]

Nilawen and Daenlin together! That’s wonderful news! I can imagine them at home sharing their memories of dear Buffy.

Aww, how sweet of Buffy to pass her toe ring along to Ardaline.

It’s only things, indeed. Buffy carries all she needs within her. And she has that magical trunk for when she finds some things that she wants from the shops in the second era!

[Acadian]

Previously- Buffy spent some time in Bravil saying goodbye to friends. She then sadly inventoried her belongings that would not travel with her and prepared to meet Kynarath that evening.

*

ghastley- Haha, underwear will be a whole new concept for Buffy! Yes, no Goddess Store but the apparel options in ESO are pretty good.

Rider- You are right - Buffy loves the whole outfit/costume/dye system. Oh don’t you just hate it when someone pees in your porridge?

SubRosa- Having Nilawen and Daenlin get together only occurred to me as we were drafting that goodbye scene, but it does help soften the parting I think and seemed such a natural fit.

Renee- Thank you. Buffy’s guildmates know she is a paladin of Kynareth but are only now seeing what that can mean. Good thing that Kud-Ei wisely helped steer her mages away from pressing Buffy too hard on when she might be back.

Lopov- That episode was a poignant one so I’m glad that adding a couple spots of humor helped to soften it some.

Grits- Nilawen + Daenlin seemed a natural fit. I’m glad you noted the toe ring. For those who might not know, Grit’s character, Jerric, gifted that toe ring to Buffy for her birthday several years ago. Happily, she’ll be able to find a suitable replacement later in this book. She’ll soon be reminded though, that her gold won’t travel with her, so that’ll put a kink in her shopping plans for all the stuff a girl needs.

* * *

~ Part Two – Blackwood ~

Straddling the great Niben River and extending east into the bogs of the Argonian homeland, Blackwood serves as the maritime gate to Cyrodiil—a valuable, if perilous, stretch of territory greatly prized by Khajiit, Argonians, and Imperials alike. The region’s largest city, Leyawiin, is found in the southwest where the Niben River flows into the Topal Bay.

Episode 12

“Good evening, Buffy.”

I nervously turned to face Kynareth. “I’ve said my goodbyes and am as ready as I can be. I think.”

“You will be fine, my paladin,” she replied. “I have prepared you as best I can. Let us wait until the full cover of darkness so your arrival draws as little attention as possible. It will be spectacular enough. Do you have any questions while we wait?”

“Yes, Kynareth. Will you be there for me? Like you’re here for me now?”

“I will not travel with you, for I am already there. And here. And across all times. Yet even I do not fancy having one foot in each of two times simultaneously by having the now me join the then me. The shorter answer is fear not, I will be there for you.”

“I’m confused, but that last part sounds good to me, my friend.”

“Buffy, have you heard the tale of the six swans?”

Kynareth’s captivating tale of a young girl’s loyalty, sacrifice and perseverance passed the time as a golden dusk gradually yielded to a blanket of stars.

“We are ready,” she announced.

I took my lead from her and stood as she did.

She placed a hand on each of my shoulders and leaned down to kiss me on the forehead. “Safe travels, my paladin.”

She then stepped back, assumed her Divine form, glowing wings and all, and lifted one hand toward the sky. The sparkling stars suddenly disappeared behind newly formed clouds and I heard the rumble of thunder.

I neither saw nor heard the bolt that took me, but I was suddenly encased in a sphere of lightning small enough that I was forced to crouch into a ball. I remember being propelled skyward and was soon above the clouds and traveling at a speed that caused the stars to blur together until I could not see. Then I felt a sensation of falling until, suddenly, everything stopped.

I was on the ground, still crouched in my small cocoon, and it was still night. The lightning that surrounded me began to dissipate. The arcing and sparking finally subsided and the sphere of energy that had transported me faded away. The last things I remember were excited voices and a bouncing torch rapidly approaching.

*

I awoke with a groan but kept my eyes closed. I could feel the spirits of Acadian, Superian and Phantom. My relief was immediate. We all made it.

I felt a soft hand on my forehead, followed by a cool wet cloth. A woman’s voice said, “Corporal, our patient is showing signs that she may awaken soon. Please notify the Captain.”

A man’s gruff voice responded, “Aye,” before I heard bootfalls on a wooden floor fading with distance.

I could tell I was on a bed with a blanket up to my neck. I blinked a couple times and opened my eyes. In a chair at my bedside was a Breton of middling years with several locks of stray auburn hair that had escaped whatever restrained the rest behind her head. Brown eyes looked into mine.

“Wherrre. . . “

“Shhh,” she replied. “Welcome back, young elf. You were struck by lightning last night but seem miraculously unharmed. My name is Brielle. I’m a healer with the Ivory Brigade here in Leyawiin and you’re in my infirmary. Can you tell me your name?”

“I. . . am called Buffy,” I managed to croak.

“Can you manage a sip of water, Buffy? It will help your voice.”

I nodded and managed to get down a few sips from the cup she held to my lips. I heard boots approaching - more than one pair - and turned my head enough to see two men enter the infirmary. One took a post at the door, the other continued to the side of my bed.

“Captain, as you can see, our patient is awake,” the healer – Brielle - reported. “Her name is Buffy, but she is still disoriented.”

The man who studied my face was an Imperial who appeared to be approaching three decades of age. He was handsome – very much so, in fact, and his face was framed by somewhat disheveled blond hair that was darker than mine. His armor was of forest green cloth, dark brown leather and metallic plating of dull gold. He looked important.

“Buffy, my name is Rian Liore, Captain of the Ivory Brigade contingent here in Leyawiin. No one we’ve spoken with seems to recognize you. Can you tell me where you came from or how you got here?”

“W-what happened to me?” Though more alert now, I figured feigning some continuing confusion and asking questions myself was preferable to overtly misleading my interrogator.

“As I said, Captain, she is still disoriented,” cautioned Brielle.

Captain Liore scratched his head. By Kynareth, he was adorable. I found myself wanting to reach out and brush aside the dark golden locks that fell over his eyes. . . Stop it Buffy! Stay focused. I'm being interrogated by a soldier with enough rank that he can toss me in his dungeon if he takes a mind to.

At any rate, he answered me, “Well, we’re not exactly sure. The two guards posted at our east gate last night report a freak storm suddenly appeared out of a clear sky. There were several lightning bolts. One struck quite close, right at the river’s edge. One of the guards ran down to investigate. He says he saw you crouched on the ground and surrounded by dissipating arcing and sparking before you collapsed. Seems the lightning strike must have fried away whatever clothing you may have been wearing but, thankfully, left you merely unconscious. He wrapped you in his surcoat and carried you here to the infirmary. You’re a lucky elf, Buffy. Alas, my guards combed the area again this morning but could find no trace of any clothing or other belongings.”

“I don’t remember exactly how I got to Leyawiin,” I said truthfully.

“You were near the docks when the guard found you,” the Captain offered. “Our best guess is that perhaps you were dropped off there. A passing merchant ship did dock briefly just before the storm. Does that stir any memories?”

“I’m afraid not. Sorry.”

“No need to apologize,” he continued. “You’re lucky to be alive, much less unharmed. Hopefully the memories you’ve lost will come back. Any chance you might recall why you came to Leyawiin?”

I nodded. “I do remember that. I came here to visit my friend, Dagail.”

“Captain,” said Brielle, “Dagail is a young mage with the guild here in town.”

Captain Liore turned to his guard at the door. “Corporal, would you see that this mage Dagail is brought here? Tell her to bring some clothing for her friend Buffy.”

The Corporal replied, “Yes, sir,” and was gone.

“Buffy, once Brielle is satisfied that your condition warrants release from the infirmary, you’re free to go. I’m sorry about the trauma of your arrival and loss of your belongings, but I hope you enjoy your stay in Leyawiin.”

“Thank you, Captain,” I said with relief as he turned to leave. I had passed my first test here, avoiding discussion of time travel while telling the truth. Mostly.

[haute ecole rider]

Well! That was quite the arrival!

I knew Kyne would be there for Buffy in 2E just as much as she has been in 3E/4E. Have faith, little elf - Kyne has been around as long as Nirn has had weather!

Captain Rian Liore! I laughed out loud at Buffy's initial reaction to his long wavy locks. I admit I have a different reaction to the good Captain, but he's good support in the ESO storyline, so I try not to hold his hair (which honestly makes me think of General Custer) against him.

And soon we will see young miss Dagail! How delightful! I bet she has already seen Buffy in her visions, and will know what to do when she sees her fellow Bosmer lass.

Most important of all, Acadian, Superian and Phantom are still with Buffy! Yay!