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> Buffy - Book 4, Drodda the Icewitch
Acadian
post Aug 21 2024, 12:49 PM
Post #1


Paladin
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Joined: 14-March 10
From: Las Vegas



Welcome to Buffy’s fourth book! As ever, her tale of continuing adventure remains one that is character-driven with more focus on her journey than the destination. Buffy is a magically inclined Bosmer. She travels intertwined with the spirit of an old ethereal paladin named Acadian who sometimes offers advice. Sometimes she listens.

Near the end of Book 1, Buffy helped the man she loved, Savlian Matius, free his city of Kvatch. They were successful, but the terrible cost included Savlian's very life. It was a physically and emotionally broken elf who retreated in grief and despair to her ancestral homeland. Book 2 picked up shortly thereafter and chronicled Buffy's journey of recovery and self-discovery through Valenwood. Book 3 took place in Cyrodiil and saw the Oblivion Crisis finally yield to the dawn of a new Era – even as Buffy accepted the challenges of walking an ancient path of her own and becoming a paladin of Kynareth.

Books 1 through 3, in their entirety, as well as an Executive Summary concise enough to comfortably be read in one sitting, can be found on our sub forum. That said, enjoying Book 4 does not really require more information than is contained right here in these few introductory paragraphs. I have taken care to have Buffy review significant aspects of her past as they become relevant. I welcome questions relating to her past though, that I may try and amplify or clarify things should our ‘review as we go’ approach prove wanting. More specifically, I want new readers to feel comfortable just jumping right into Book 4 without feeling obligated to read Buffy’s previous books first.

Book 4 joins Buffy in Cyrodiil shortly after the Oblivion Crisis. Soon, however, she finds herself confronted by a threat so vexing that the only path to resolving it will require the direct intervention of Kynareth, and for Buffy to forsake the life she knows.

I estimate that at one episode per week, Book 4 will require just under a year to post. My fervent hope is that you find our humbly offered efforts worthy of your time.

* * *


~ Part One – Cyrodiil ~


Episode 1


Reluctantly, I allowed my healing bond with Countess Odalys Goldwine to dissipate. She opened her eyes, saw the tears in mine and managed a weak smile. “Tell me the truth.”

I took her hand. “The wasting sickness that began in your foot has a Daedric taint. It strongly resists healing and has spread throughout your body. Were I to remove it now, it would destroy every organ it has infested. I’m sorry, Countess. Even with the assistance of Kynareth, I cannot save you.”

“Don’t blame yourself, Buffy," the Countess of Kvatch replied. "I will be at peace knowing that if anyone could have healed me it would have been you. Ironic,” a coughing spasm interrupted her words for several moments, “that Ormellius’ mage encased me in that magical ice to protect me from the Daedra. It almost worked.”

“I know they did their best,” I said. “Given the severe time constraint of Daedra breaking down the door, I’m not surprised that Count Goldwine’s court mage inadvertently left a small part of your left foot unprotected. That is how the wasting taint entered your body.”

“And I thought it was just an annoying limp I’d have to deal with.” Coughing wracked her body again as an attentive handmaiden quickly wiped away the blood it produced.

“In the months you’ve had since Kvatch was retaken from the Daedra,” I said, “you’ve largely restored this city to its former glory while inspiring your people. I’m sure the late Count would be proud. I know I will always be grateful for the mutual consolation we shared after both losing our mates. Let me ease your pain.”

“No,” she stayed my hands, “that will cloud my thinking and I have a request I must make of you while I still can.”

“I will do whatever I’m able Milady.”

“After I die, rule of Kvatch will be a ripe target. My city deserves better than the unproven offspring of some ambitious noble like the skooma-sucking son of Count Bravil.”

“I agree. How can I help?” I asked while trying to restrain a rising sense of panic. Please don’t ask me to try and become the Countess of Kvatch. As much as I love the city that Savlian Matius and I fought for and he died for, it harbors memories that are too. . . painful to make it my home. Not that the Elder Council would ever consider me – a Bosmeri orphan who can barely rule herself.

“I would like the Champions of Cyrodiil to succeed me,” she said. “Since moving to Kvatch and taking leadership of the Order of the Wolf, Sirs Agronak and Mazoga have proven their love for this city.” Her words were growing weaker and coming slowly now. “I have spoken with them and they are willing to accept the appointment if offered. I want you to be my advocate before the Elder Council. There will be resistance because they are orcs and neither is of noble birth. Will you do this for me?”

“I will advocate for you Milady, for I can think of no finer potential count and countess for Kvatch than Sirs Agronak and Mazoga.” Through her pain of trying to breathe, I could see a sense of relief in her eyes. “You must rest now.” As she almost imperceptibly nodded, I laid hands on her again.

I eased her pain then, mercifully, she slept. With her mistress asleep, the Countess’ handmaiden shifted her focus to me, bringing cool water, hot tea and fresh bread with soft cheese. We kept vigil through the night.

By dawn Countess Odalys was gone. “Join your Count in Aetherious now,” I said softly while her hands were still warm. As I left the Countess’ bedchamber, I was met by Sirs Mazoga and Agronak.

Their hopeful looks turned to despair as soon as they saw my face. Mazoga engulfed my shoulder with a massive hand. “Sorry, Buff.”

I tried to smile. “She died peacefully. I understand you're both aware of her request regarding a successor?”

Both orcs nodded. It was Agronak who spoke. “Countess Odalys was a fine ruler. We’d be honored if chosen to take up her mantle and finish what she started.”

I nodded. “I’m leaving almost straightaway to relay her wishes to the Imperial Council.”

After tearful goodbyes, followed by a quick visit to Savlian’s grave, Superian and I were on the road and riding into the morning sun.

**

My hands fidgeted as I sat on the hard chair. I’m sure I would have been tapping my feet had they been able to reach the floor. I looked up at the guard posted by the door. “How long do you think before the Imperial Council finishes deliberating and gives me their decision?”

The guard quietly replied, “No way to tell, Dame Buffy. You made a persuasive case. There are many in the Legion who well-remember what you, Captain Matius and the Champions of Cyrodiil did to free Kvatch. For what it’s worth, I think those knights could provide the strength and inspiration to make that city flourish once again.”

“Thank you,” I said. “I hope the Council agrees.”

The door opened and I was ushered back into the Council’s chamber. Those holding the future of Kvatch in their hands sat on the far side of a wide table as I stood before them. I could not read their faces.

“Dame Buffy,” began High Chancellor Ocato, “the Council has reached a decision regarding the late Countess of Kvatch's wishes regarding her successor. Odalys could not have chosen a better advocate. You certainly made a strong case that her success in rebuilding Kvatch should lend great strength to her recommendation. Further, you spoke eloquently to the character of Sirs Mazoga and Agronak, gained through your long history of friendship and fighting by their sides. You also made a strong argument for the superiority of earning one’s noble title via deed instead of birth.”

I realized I was holding my breath and forced myself to breathe. Their words were encouraging. So far.

“That acknowledged,” he continued as my hopes sank, “the Council feels Kvatch would be best served with the Champions of Cyrodiil remaining at the helm of the city’s valiant order of knights. Further, with so many changes affecting the Empire, we feel the people need. . . stability, a feeling of normalcy regarding how the Empire has always done business. Therefore, during a subsequent deliberation, we shall choose the next ruler of Kvatch from one of the well-known and respected noble families of Cyrodiil. Please accept our appreciation for bringing the late Countess’ recommendation to us for consideration. This proceeding is concluded.”

My hands were behind my back but I didn’t need to see them to know how white the knuckles of my clenched fists were. Nor did I need to see the hot flush of anger that rose above the neckline of my buckskins to know the color that traveled up to my face and out to the tips of my ears. I looked at each Councilor. Round-eared Imperials with soft hands, every one of them. Not one had ever seen a day of combat. Easy, Buffy, Countess Odalys was an Imperial as well. That is not the problem. That these ignorant fools are leading the Empire is the problem. I need to restrain my tongue. Nothing good for Kvatch can come from a display of anger toward them. I swallowed hard and finally spoke, “Countess Odalys was a skilled leader and friend. I appreciate the opportunity to have conveyed her considered recommendation.” I turned and left the chamber hastily so they would not see the tears I fought to hold back.


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Acadian   Buffy - Book 4   Aug 21 2024, 12:49 PM
Acadian   Previously- Buffy went for a ride and vented her d...   Mar 19 2025, 01:04 PM
SubRosa   Poor cold princesses. Thankfully Buffy has some fr...   Mar 19 2025, 09:21 PM
Grits   "Princesses!" Mirri is a hoot. Oh d...   Mar 20 2025, 02:08 AM
Lopov   I enjoyed the backstory of Drodda the Ice Witch. I...   Mar 21 2025, 04:49 PM
Kane   :( Poor Dreanna. I fear she's another case of ...   Mar 21 2025, 06:54 PM
Renee   My guess is nixads might be mentioned in lore, per...   Mar 24 2025, 05:47 PM
Acadian   Previously- Buffy and Mirri arrived in Windhelm. ...   Mar 26 2025, 12:43 PM
Lopov   As the focus now shifts to Dreanna and her past, t...   Mar 26 2025, 01:47 PM
ghastley   The incomplete burning of Dreanna's belongings...   Mar 26 2025, 02:40 PM
Grits   I love Buffy’s gentle treatment of Hreinhilde. A...   Mar 26 2025, 03:28 PM
SubRosa   A flagon of mead does seem like just the thing to ...   Mar 26 2025, 09:27 PM
Renee   Aw, she froze Hreinhilde. See, I feel bad for Drea...   Mar 30 2025, 02:10 PM
Kane   I love the depths you are laying onto poor Dreanna...   Mar 31 2025, 06:41 PM
Acadian   Previously- Buffy spoke with Hreinhilde, a young m...   Apr 2 2025, 12:37 PM
Renee   Yes, that's the question: is there any Dreanna...   Apr 2 2025, 05:17 PM
Grits   This made me cackle. Willow is adorable. I love h...   Apr 2 2025, 06:43 PM
ghastley   I'm with Grits on the healers learning from ne...   Apr 2 2025, 07:44 PM
SubRosa   I loved Buffy's use of the map. It something t...   Apr 3 2025, 12:39 AM
haute ecole rider   Sorry, couldn't resist a reply to this: Like...   Apr 4 2025, 01:50 AM
Kane   Let the search begin! Interesting that the tra...   Apr 5 2025, 01:15 PM
Lopov   Though I have enjoyed the current book from the ve...   Apr 6 2025, 10:04 AM
Acadian   Previously- With some creative trial and error, Bu...   Apr 9 2025, 12:43 PM
Kane   I always enjoy the prep time before the quest...   Apr 9 2025, 02:01 PM
Renee   You're welcome. Ooh, a heavy white robe. And...   Apr 9 2025, 04:29 PM
SubRosa   That was very kind and thoughtful of Hreinhilde to...   Apr 9 2025, 09:47 PM
Renee   All that great food and Mirri eats a bug! Typ...   Apr 10 2025, 04:04 PM
Grits   Buffy looks lovely and warm in her winter robe...   Apr 10 2025, 01:18 AM
macole   A nice day of controlled shopping. The white winte...   Apr 10 2025, 05:12 AM
ghastley   I think Buffy's robe will make sneaking easier...   Apr 10 2025, 05:17 PM
haute ecole rider   Hreinhilde giving Buffy her twelve year old winter...   Apr 10 2025, 05:56 PM
Lopov   An important trait of wool is indeed that it's...   Apr 11 2025, 12:39 PM
Acadian   Previously- Hreinhilde gave Buffy a winter guild r...   Apr 16 2025, 12:32 PM
Lopov   So Buffy's father was a Breton. A detail that ...   Apr 16 2025, 05:50 PM
SubRosa   Some warm vittles then on to the road. I never l...   Apr 16 2025, 09:22 PM
haute ecole rider   That little scene with Willow the bug hunter remin...   Apr 17 2025, 12:03 AM
Grits   *spits tea* :rofl: There’s so much to love in ...   Apr 17 2025, 03:27 AM
Kane   :( Buffy losing her mate in the third era must hav...   Apr 17 2025, 04:08 PM
Renee   Potions in general last a short while in Elder Scr...   Apr 17 2025, 05:14 PM
Acadian   Previously- Buffy and Mirri began their journey to...   Apr 23 2025, 12:52 PM
Kane   The hunt is on! Hopefully Buffy and Miri aren...   Apr 23 2025, 01:36 PM
ghastley   I am a little worried if ambient cold is making th...   Apr 23 2025, 01:50 PM
SubRosa   It looks like Bufirri will be enjoying some rabbit...   Apr 23 2025, 09:45 PM
Grits   Gosh I love a camp scene, and this one really deli...   Apr 24 2025, 01:50 AM
haute ecole rider   This little phrase made me twirl! Though we ...   Apr 24 2025, 06:13 PM
Lopov   Resting up in a cozy shelter before the hunt in th...   Apr 26 2025, 09:14 PM
Renee   Buffy = CG, yes I agree. :) She does plenty of goo...   Apr 28 2025, 06:32 PM
Acadian   Previously- After spending the night in a small ca...   Apr 30 2025, 01:00 PM
haute ecole rider   I quite enjoyed this rendition of one of the ...   Apr 30 2025, 05:28 PM
Grits   Great catch of that tripwire by Willow! At her...   Apr 30 2025, 06:20 PM
SubRosa   So Buffy starts off with some solid crowd control,...   Apr 30 2025, 09:50 PM
Renee   Smiled at Star Trek reference. :) Heating of the r...   May 1 2025, 03:58 PM
ghastley   I liked the verbal taunt, too. The game should let...   May 1 2025, 04:38 PM
Kane   Buffy and Mirri have their work cut out for them a...   May 2 2025, 12:26 PM
macole   A great scene, thoroughly enjoyed the clash betwee...   May 2 2025, 04:51 PM
Lopov   Looks like the members of the Direfrost clan suffe...   May 6 2025, 05:53 PM
Acadian   Previously- Making their way deeper into Direfrost...   May 7 2025, 12:27 PM
Renee   Dreanna shows up telling lies, it seems in the jou...   May 7 2025, 04:04 PM
haute ecole rider   As I read the diary (ledger?) I was reminded of Na...   May 7 2025, 04:51 PM
SubRosa   Reading the journal is quite a journey. It starts ...   May 7 2025, 10:14 PM
Grits   Oh no, any hope of redemption for Dreanna is gone....   May 7 2025, 11:26 PM
Kane   Well, that certainly does make it seem like Dreann...   May 8 2025, 01:32 PM
Lopov   Poor Vladgeir. He fell for Dreanna's charms an...   May 11 2025, 07:51 PM
ghastley   Since the 'immense source of power' has it...   May 12 2025, 01:31 PM
Acadian   Previously- The journal of a defeated Direfrost Cl...   May 14 2025, 12:33 PM
ghastley   No, sneaky archers was (will be?) a Skyrim thing. ...   May 14 2025, 01:52 PM
haute ecole rider   First, a couple of nits: I admit I had to scrat...   May 14 2025, 04:24 PM
SubRosa   It looks like Drodda is not much for housekeeping....   May 14 2025, 05:19 PM
Renee   Hmm, I don't know. Drodda is supposedly busy w...   May 14 2025, 05:21 PM
Grits   That is an excellent use of the staircase! The...   May 14 2025, 07:34 PM
Kane   Thank goodness an arrow didn't find Buffy soon...   May 15 2025, 12:40 AM
Lopov   I wonder if Drenna already knows that "her...   May 15 2025, 08:31 AM
Acadian   Previously- Buffy and Mirri found a door they hope...   May 21 2025, 01:10 PM
Renee   Nice, so Willow's got some Thief skill as well...   May 21 2025, 06:35 PM
Grits   Mirri makes an excellent point that in killing the...   May 21 2025, 09:04 PM
SubRosa   Some neat sympathetic magic by Willow, as she is a...   May 21 2025, 10:04 PM
ghastley   Willow is almost running the show now. I hope she ...   May 22 2025, 06:26 PM
haute ecole rider   While I echo what everyone else has pointed out, t...   May 22 2025, 07:02 PM
Lopov   Willow is a handy companion. She'd be very use...   May 24 2025, 05:06 PM
Kane   Willow has indeed become a vital part of the team....   May 27 2025, 07:53 PM
Acadian   Previously- After encountering a magically locked ...   May 28 2025, 12:44 PM
Lopov   So looks like there won't be any allies for Mi...   May 28 2025, 02:31 PM
SubRosa   I like your description of the room being x number...   May 28 2025, 10:09 PM
Grits   Yikes, that exploding frostkin could have been the...   May 28 2025, 10:52 PM
Renee   Yes, that was going to be my guess: Willow would e...   May 29 2025, 05:00 PM
haute ecole rider   Banekin! or Frostkin in this case. I hate the ...   May 30 2025, 11:48 PM
Acadian   Previously- Buffy and Mirri finally fought and nav...   Jun 4 2025, 01:08 PM
Lopov   When Mirri got covered in ice, I feared for a seco...   Jun 4 2025, 08:16 PM
Grits   Mirri’s verbal taunts are a delight. If I ever p...   Jun 4 2025, 08:45 PM
SubRosa   “Who disturbs my concentration?” I heard this...   Jun 4 2025, 10:28 PM
haute ecole rider   And now the circle feels complete - Phantom, Acadi...   Jun 5 2025, 10:23 PM
Acadian   Previously- Buffy and Mirri finally engaged Drodda...   Jun 11 2025, 12:40 PM
SubRosa   All cleaned up after a long day of smiting. I gu...   Jun 11 2025, 06:01 PM
Grits   ”You know, you’re even smaller without your cl...   Jun 11 2025, 10:08 PM
Lopov   Mirri is right - there are a lot of spirits in Buf...   Jun 15 2025, 05:21 PM
Kane   I've missed a few chapters but the events in t...   Jun 16 2025, 01:19 PM
Acadian   Previously- After escaping from Direfrost Keep, Bu...   Jun 18 2025, 12:40 PM
SubRosa   Wow, it has been 44 episodes. The time seems to ha...   Jun 18 2025, 11:01 PM
Grits   Dagail is an absolute riot. I adore her. He is ki...   Jun 18 2025, 11:38 PM
haute ecole rider   I'm glad to hear that Buffy and Mirri are cons...   Jun 19 2025, 06:40 PM
Kane   Love (and gossip) is in the air! I wonder if t...   Jun 19 2025, 07:46 PM
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