My gosh what an intense story. You two really have some 2-way communication going on. I don't have that with any of mine, and I'm not sure I'd want it. Wow, TWO years of labor, yikes. Makes sense though, since elves live longer.

I got a little confused about Moria though. She's Buffy's child? Oh wait, she's her adopted child?

This one's touching, probably the most touching from the 2nd book so far. We have a saying that goes like "For every bad there's something good" so I guess that in a way applies to Buffy - she won't have children of her own but her paladin, her mare (and her fans) will always be there for her.

How beautiful that Savlian's totem is a lion.

Gosh, this episode was a work of art from start to finish. Buffy's emotions and Acadian's wisdom felt so true and familiar from everything that has gone before. I love that what you've shown us about Buffy's dual nature led us to her two totems. And of course the best part for me was the very end, when Buffy realized that the family of elf, dragon-mare, and paladin will not be separated.

Rider- Thank you and I agree that breadcrumbs of Buffy’s butterfly/dragon dichotomy have been liberally sprinkled throughout her long fiction history.

BretonBlood- Thanks! We have always found the butterfly/dragon metaphor apropos for Buffy’s ‘glass cannon’ nature. Whereas Rider picked up on it from her years of support for Buffy’s fiction, I’m delighted that you – as a newer reader – found that our explanation during Buffy and Acadian’s discussion made it work for you and make sense.

ghastley- You are astute to suspect that tying Buffy down to a mate – as much as she might daydream about that – doesn’t really work well for an adventuring elf. I’m glad she realizes that her solace is the inseparable durability of Acadian and Superian.

hazmick- Thank you – a dragon totem is not what Buffy wanted to hear at all, despite Acadian’s logic. Today, we’ll learn Vandrelis’ reaction to the news.

DE- This was an emotional episode to write and I’m grateful that you mentioned a couple of what I consider to be significant passages.

SubRosa- As emotionally draining as the episode was to write, it was (in a way) fun both unleashing Buffy’s strong emotions and having some quite meaningful dialog between bowgirl and paladin. Thank you for your kind words on this important episode. I quite hoped long term readers would not be surprised by Buffy’s totems.

mALX- Thank you, dear friend. I know you enjoy Buffy episodes when she displays her strong emotions – and this past one certainly did that! I’m also glad that you are enjoying some of the Bosmer lore we are building.

Renee- Although many years spent with one character limits me in some ways, the up side is that Buffy truly does live in my heart – just as I live in hers, and our understanding of each other flows from that. I’m sorry that Moria’s identity was not clear. She was a young Imperial girl I created at the Kvatch encampment during Book 1. As mentioned, Savlian saved her from the daedric fires that claimed her parents and she quite stole Buffy’s heart. I’m glad you mentioned that it was not quite clear for you, as it teaches me that I should have probably expanded that section so that it not only reminded long term readers, but clarified enough for readers who joined us after Book 1. Thank you!

Lopov- This was indeed the most emotional episode of Book 2 from my perspective and I’m so grateful to hear that it touched you as well. I’d like to think that Acadian is a very comforting presence for Buffy that cannot be taken from her. I base that on the comfort that Buffy gives to me – that cannot be taken from me.

Grits- Thanks so much for recognizing so many of the key pieces of this important and emotionally draining episode. Your warm support is always so encouraging. That is especially comforting when Buffy and Acadian bare part of their soul for the reader.


Previously- Buffy discovered that she has two totems – apparently not unusual for an elf of the Spirit Catcher Tribe. She welcomed the news that one totem is a butterfly. Upon learning that her second totem is an ice dragon she did not deal well with the news. As she understands things, for a Bosmer to conceive, her totem(s) must be defeated by the totem of her prospective mate. And she can think of no totem capable of defeating hers. After a typhoon of anger, frustration and self-pity, she was willing to listen to some calm reasoning from Acadian.


When Superian and I finally returned to the Strid River Valley Tribe’s village, Violet was anxiously hopping from one foot to the other. Our hugs and tears, her chastisements and my apologies for causing her to worry about me filled several minutes before we settled down enough to actually talk.

“Who knows that I have a dragon as a totem?” I had visions of returning to whispers, pointed fingers and looks of pity. Or worse.

“I spoke with the shaman and medicine woman after you left the elders’ tent,” Violet replied. “A totem is a personal thing at best; in your case much more so. We all agreed that you would be the only one to share the nature of your totem – if, when and with whom you saw fit. You may rely on their discretion. And mine.”

I heaved a sigh of relief. “Thank you, dear cousin, for your clear thinking on my behalf while my emotions were banishing any rational thought from my head.”

“So what will you do?” she asked. “I mean about Vandrelis.”

I winced before replying. “I as much as confessed that I returned his interest yesterday, just that I wasn’t ready. He cares enough about me to ask my totem and I figure I owe him the truth.” I sighed again. “Vandrelis and I talked yesterday about him likely being the next chief and he said he looks forward to having a child that he can train to one day succeed him. I-I am sure he will no longer be interested in a. . . defective elf.”

“Buffy!” snapped Violet. “Don’t you dare berate yourself. It is a man’s responsibility to defeat your totem. If his is not up to the task, it is as much – nay, more – his problem than yours. If he considers you merely defective breeding stock, he does not deserve you. You are a beautiful elf and the forests are full of mer who would be lucky to have you whether their totem can defeat yours or not.”

She’s right, you know, silently opined Acadian.

I had to smile. “Thank you, Violet. I’m a lucky elf to have a cousin as caring as you. I know I’ll not sleep tonight if I am still fretting about this so I should tell Vandrelis now – before I lose my nerve.”

The sun was well on its westerly journey toward the Abecean Sea and my shadow was longer than my height when I found Vandrelis. He lowered the arrow he was fletching and smiled. “I haven’t seen you all day. Did you enjoy the feast last night?”

I returned his smile. “I did, even though I ate too much.” To emphasize my words, I patted my tummy – which only reminded me of my dragon-guarded womb and the reason I had sought out Vandrelis. “Will you walk with me?”

“Of course,” he replied.

Our small talk was pleasant as we headed down to the river and leisurely strolled along its bank. Vandrelis occasionally bent to grab a flat pebble and skip it across the water.

“I hope you’re not going to throw me in the river again today,” I teased.

He flashed me a beautiful grin. “I make no promises, Buffy. After all, it was just such a tactic yesterday that resulted in a kiss.”

Why did he have to be so damned handsome. . . and funny, noble, brave, comfortably fun to be with. . . . “About that kiss,” I began.

He raised both hands disarmingly. “You said yesterday you were not ready. Yet.”

“And I appreciate your patience with me, Vandrelis. I would, in fact, be untruthful if I said I do not harbor feelings for you. Remember when you asked my totem?”

“Of course,” he replied.

“I asked Violet about them last night and she told me their real significance. You know, between men and women.

“Buffy, it was not my intent to push you.”

“Violet was kind enough to consult the shaman and medicine woman on my behalf and, earlier today they conducted a ceremony in which I learned the answer.”

“Is your totem a prairie mammoth or grizzly bear?” He asked with a sparkle in his eye.

“It is neither of those,” I replied, “Why?”

“My totem is a tiger and those are the only two among the Nirn Mother’s children I know of that could likely defeat it. So, you see, should you continue to warm to my courtship the chances of us providing the tribe with a chief to follow me would be excellent.” He looked pleased.

“That’s important to you, isn’t it?” I asked, trying to hide my growing concern.

“Of course,” he replied. “An important task of being chief is training one’s successor. And the best source of a future tribal leader is from the loins of the current one.”

“And you believe that I would be a suitable breeding receptacle for the treasure of your loins?” What I had feared seemed to be playing out between us.

He stopped and faced me. “I admit it doesn’t sound very romantic when you put it that way. Is it so unusual for two mer to fall in love, become mated and hope for baby elves?”

“Of course not, if it truly happens in that order,” I said. “Otherwise, how could their love survive the possibility that baby elves might not grace their tent?”

Vandrelis scratched his head. “But you as much as admitted that my totem can defeat yours, so why is any of this a hindrance to our future?”

“I admitted no such thing.” I didn’t think Vandrelis could feel the gulf widening between us – but I could.

“I’m confused,” he said.

“My totem is not of the Nirn Mother, but a creature of the Sky Goddess.”

“What exactly is your totem? You are a formidable huntsmer. . . one of the Sky Goddess’ raptors?”

I took a deep breath. “It is a dragon. An ice dragon to be precise.”

His eyes opened wide. After many long seconds, his face then brightened and the sparkle ignited in his eyes again as he proclaimed, “Why you little vixen! You really had me beginning to worry. I suppose it serves me right after tossing you in the river yesterday.” He took my hand. “No, really, Buffy. Stop teasing. What is your totem?”

“I wasn’t teasing, Vandrelis.”

He studied my face for a time before slowly responding, “By the Mother of Nirn, there is truth in your eyes. A dragon? How is that even possible?”

“How it happened matters not.” I placed a hand on his cheek as a tear slid down mine. “Clearly, having a son or daughter to grace your tent and follow in your footsteps as likely chief is important to you. And I do not fault you for it. I have come to see how important this magnificent tribe is to you and how seriously you take the prospective mantle of its leadership. Indeed, you will make a superb chief. It is. . . j-just not I who will be at your side. Forgive me, dear Vandrelis, for not being what you need.”

We looked at each other for several seconds. He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it. Finally, he slowly nodded once. We walked back to the village together in silence.

*

I was unable to eat anything that evening as I told Violet all about what had happened with Vandrelis. I cried that night. Violet must have heard me, for she crawled under my furs and drew up close behind me, pressing the front of her body against the skin of my back and rump so we were like two spoons nesting together. She said it was to help her cramps, but I knew her real reason was to comfort me. I pulled her arm around me and eventually drifted off to sleep.

I really liked Violet in this chapter - She knows exactly what Buffy needs and when she needs it, even after knowing each other for such a short time.

Certainly a shock there for Van. He, and the tribe, have been so sure of his future position that he no doubt has everything all planned out. Would he change those plans to accommodate a dragon?

Aw, poor Buffy!

I was once again struck by how similar Violet is to Buffy in actions and wondered again if it was something unique to their tribe/heritage:



I've known Buffy to do this many times in the past (and also Bobg's "Angel.")

Awesome chapter! Now I wonder if he will turn his attentions to Violet; whose totem is easily eaten by tigers!

I'm seeing a little more of his positioning himself as next chief, rather than genuine interest in Buffy as Buffy. She had demonstrated her prowess in the mammoth hunt, so he needed her to be part of his entourage, rather than a potential rival (or ally of a rival, if it's strictly patriarchal). And now that's unlikely.

I imagine he's now looking for ways to move her on in her quest, or ensure she doesn't become a distraction to his ambitions. Violet looks like a key part of either strategy, but how does she view him?

There is a saying among Morgan Horse breeders: the stallion is only as good as his dam.

It really emphasizes the fact that it's the quality of the mare,, not the stud, that determines the quality of the offspring.

It takes an extremely prepotent, high quality stallion to improve upon a mare. That's why stud owners are so picky about the mares their boys are bred to.

Whereas a quality mare bred to an average stud is still going to reproduce herself, and that is something I've seen with my own Rosehill.

So I kind of understand where Vandrelis is coming from. He is taking the long view, and of course he wants strong sons. And it takes a strong woman to bear strong sons.

I'm somewhat disappointed that he still didn't press his suit further - just because he's a tiger doesn't mean the tiger can't thaw an ice dragon. Think of it - if he succeeded, that would be one heck of a child (likely a daughter would have a better chance to be stronger than a son - my own prejudice speaking). So if that's how he sees things, perhaps it's best that Buffy move on.

But damn, he's quite the heartbreaker, isn't he?

A defective elf? Buffy, Buffy, Buffy... Don't you know it is Teresa's job to sell herself short, not yours?

Poor Vandry is in for an unpleasant surprise. There is more to Nirn and Aetherius than mammoths and bears...

Now poor Buffy. But I am not counting out Vandrelis yet. Not with theme music like this...

Besides, as Queen Gorgo of Sparta once said:
"Why are you Spartan women the only ones who can rule men?"
"Because we are also the only ones who give birth to men."

How great that Violet and the others left the nature of Buffy's dragon and butterfly totem at their discretion. There is no need for everyone to hear about her personal problems. Buffy really shouldn't consider this as a defect. Violet had a point indeed. The man should worry about his abilities or lack thereof. It shouldn't be Buffy's concern.

The flirting between the two was so cute! I think they make a fine couple. But its up to Buffy and Vandrelis . . . and what else comes next to decide.

Buffy still struggles with the bad news, especially following her talk with Vandrelis. I do understand where he's coming from. Especially a hunter-warrior society that expects strong chiefs and hunters. This news did not come easy for him. I do hope the two will work this out.

I really do.

Hmmm... while I think Vandrelis's intentions are good, like he does care about Buffy, his reaction here makes me think he cares more about the tribe and providing the tribe with an heir that can be his successor.

I feel bad for Buffy, but maybe Vandrelis will come around... we can hope as they would make quite the pair.

Vandrelis' first reaction was expected, on one hand he has feelings for Buffy, on the other hand he now can't imagine their future together, at least not as he predicted it. Despite Buffy definitely being in a difficult position, Vandrelis is also not in an easy one - as a future tribe leader, he's expected to follow the tribe rituals and as such, have successors of his own.

What I liked about this chapter the most was that Buffy immediately knew Vandrelis of her totem. She didn't think about it too long, nor she decided to keep it a secret (and possibly leave), instead she openly said it to Vandrelis. That takes some courage and wisdom.

Aw jeez, poor Buffy! She's having such a rough time!

Defective?! DEFECTIVE?!? A gazillion times nope!

Violet was adorable and so much like Buffy in her mannerisms, loving care, and worries for others. Their kinship would be apparent even if she was somehow tall and green. How wonderful that the two cousins have found each other.

Poor Van, he is so used to the comfortable knowledge that his totem could gobble up the guardian of any fertile ground that he wished to seed. If he's talking about loins, he's already in love. I think he showed tremendous character in his moment of shock and disappointment. In the same vein, Buffy showed her beautifully courageous inner self when she told him the difficult truth and made herself vulnerable to whatever reaction he might have. The two of them laid a solid foundation of respect and affection for whatever connection they might carry into the future, even if it doesn't include little tiger-dragons.

I imagine that Vandrelis also had a melancholy night. After all, if he wanted any of the local lasses who were interested in him, he would already have one at his side. He knows what is most important to him and did not try to hide that from Buffy, but I still think he has some thinking to do.

hazmick- You are very right – Violet is a gem and Buffy is fortunate she is there. Thank you!

mALX- Thank you so much for mentioning how Violet was hopping from one foot to the other – it was absolutely a tribute to bobg’s little Angel. Buffy and Violet carry sap from the same tree – and it shows in both their manner and appearance. I don’t believe Violet will be interested in the mer who rejected her dear cousin.

ghastley- A strong woman could certainly challenge Vandrelis for chief as it is not patriarchal in that regard like orc strongholds. While I think Vandrelis is foolish to pass up the possible opportunity to win Buffy’s heart, I do admire that he never misled her and was completely open and honest in what he sought. The fallout I see between Buffy and Vandrelis will be awkwardness, not competition – and I expect Buffy’s wanderlust will soon resolve that.

Rider- What neat insights into the breeding significance of mare over stallion! Vandrelis’ strength and fatal flaw is that he is ruled by reason. As I’m sure you recall, Savlian Matius’ strength and fatal flaw was that he was ruled by passion – and bore the battlescars to prove it. Yet, that is why Buffy – also ruled by passion - loved Savlian and could never love Vandrelis. That said, Vandrelis will no doubt make a fine chief, subordinating his own needs to those of his tribe.

SubRosa- Heh, your comment about Teresa did bring a faint smile. At least Buffy didn’t do Teresa’s signature chew on her bottom lip. Yes, Vandrelis’ loss, as Violet will point out today. Buffy didn’t take the totem news well of course, but she is an adaptable survivor. She’ll rapidly adjust to what we already knew was a perfect set of totems for her. Thank you!

DE- Thank you. Violet is both wise and perceptive – Buffy’s lucky to have her. Vandrelis certainly knows what he wants and I admire his directness. Unfortunately, what he wants Buffy cannot provide. Regardless, I am pleased that Buffy discovered this earlier rather than later.

BretonBlood- I think you are absolutely right. In Vandrelis’ mind, his tribe will always come first. In Buffy’s mind, one’s mate should always come first. Not gonna work I’m afraid.

Lopov- It was Buffy’s dragon totem that revealed Vandrelis’ priorities. If her totem had only been a butterfly, she never would have learned where his real priorities are. Although she doesn’t really appreciate it, her dragon totem has helped protect her once again.

Renee- Yes, Buffy is having a rough time. A dragon is a hard totem to live with. As you know, her first mate (Savlian Matius) died. And she can’t really get off the ground with Vandrelis it seems.

Grits- I’m so pleased you had the same overreaction to Buffy calling herself defective that Violet had! While the two cousins differ in some ways, I intentionally tried to have their similarities come through strongly. I think I understand Vandrelis’ decision based upon his sense of duty and belief that his tribe’s needs come first. That said, I’ve no doubt he will someday kick himself for letting Buffy get away.


Previously- Buffy and Vandrelis talked about totems. She knew how devoted he was to his role as the tribe’s future chief, and his words confirmed that he felt producing an heir to succeed him was an important part of a chief’s duties. When she finally confessed that her totem was a dragon, she spared him from making a choice she did not want to hear by making it clear that she was not what he needed in a mate.


Early the following morning, I slipped out of the women’s tent and made my way toward Superian. I saw the mare moving her head, as if tracking a target. As I got closer, I could see what she was watching. “Good morning, Dawn,” I said to the twilight butterfly as I conjured Superian’s hoof pick and went to work inspecting her massive hoofs.

“For what it’s worth,” said Acadian, “I agree with much of what your cousin told you. I’m sorry that things with Vandrelis did not work out, but you conducted yourself honorably and with kindness.”

“Thank you, Acadian. I know Savlian wanted me to move on – and I am trying. My totems are not easy to live with but I realize now it is they who showed my why Vandrelis is not right for me.”

“Buffy, I am glad that, even now, you are not afraid to open your heart to the possibility of finding love again - someday.”

“My paladin, I believe it is time to move on from this valley.” I had also moved on to the next step in Superian’s grooming regimen. “My mare and I both grow restless from being in one place too long.” As if to emphasize my words, Superian pawed the ground and snorted her approval. “Do you remember Violet’s offer to try and teach me the magic through which she gained her familiar?”

“I do,” he replied, “and I fully endorse anything that can help make our travels safer. That said, however, I feel your unease. What troubles you, my elf?”

“I already have the spirits of a paladin and butterfly within me. If I understand correctly, aspects of Phantom linger strongly as well. I mean, I’m only a small mer. . . how many spirits can I hold?”

After a moment, the paladin replied, “Spirits are like love.”

I scratched my head. “What do you mean?”

“When you fell in love with your precious mare, did you love your old archery master any less?”

“Of course not,” I said.

“And did your love for Savlian Matius diminish the love for your friend, Sir Mazoga?”

“No. . . and that I love my University mentor, Boderi Farano, does not mean I love you any less either. I think I see now. Spirits require no physical space. After all, how else could a creature like Phantom have ever dwelled inside me?”

“Exactly,” he replied, “and are you not a Spirit Catcher, after all?”

“Thank you, Acadian. It’s a decision I didn’t want to make without you and I feel better about it now.” I continued to work on Superian for several more minutes before adding, “I’ll speak with Violet this morning.”

I heard a giggle behind me. “You sure talk to your horse a lot.”

I turned. “Good morning, cousin. Are you feeling better today?”

She nodded. “My cramps are easing somewhat. Pressing my tummy against your warm rump during the night helped. Thank you.”

“I thank you as well, for your closeness helped ease my tears.” I dispelled the conjured brush in my hand and began combing my fingers through Superian’s mane in search of tangles. “I’ve come to think of you more as a sister than cousin, and I thank Azura that I found you.”

“I feel the same way, Buffy.”

I took a deep breath. “That is why it is hard for me to say the time has come for me to move on. I wish to see the Tall Trees for myself.”

Violet winced. “I was afraid of that. I can imagine it must feel somewhat awkward here after you and Vandrelis. . . well, you know. Part of me wants to go with you but, unlike you, I am a nester, not a wanderer. This river and the prairie it travels through are my home now. How can I help you prepare for the journey?”

“Do you remember what you told me about familiars?”

Her eyes lit up. “Of course! During your time here, we have indeed grown as close as sisters and I’m confident that we are able to fully share our magicks now.” She looked around. “We’re alone here. How about we try right now?”

Finished with my mare, I chirped, “That sounds great!”

With Violet’s hands on my cheeks and mine on hers, our spirits intertwined easily and the magic freely flowed between us. After a time, it was Violet who let the bond fade. She opened her eyes. “Well?”

“I do feel the presence of a new spell, but I am unsure of its school.”

“I don’t think they teach forest magic in Cyrodiil, Buffy,” she teased. “Remember, a familiar is not a summon – you cannot dispel it. Once it finds you, it will soon learn to make its home within you where it will come and go as it sees fit. Many familiars know some magic, but each is unique. They are quite independent, but uncanny in their ability to be responsive to your needs. Now are you sure about this?”

I nodded and filled my fist with this unusual forest magic. After releasing the spell, I looked around expectantly. Seeing no familiar, I asked, “Did I do it right?”

Violet nodded with a smile. “I told you that your familiar is not a summon. Even during your initial encounter, he or she will find you at a time and place of their choosing, not yours. It is not uncommon for your familiar to observe you for several days before making their presence known to you. You should just go on about your business now until your familiar finds you.”

I returned Violet’s smile. “Then I will be patient. Will you help me prepare for my journey?”

“If I say no, somehow I know you will still leave. So, of course I’ll help. When do plan to leave?”

“Sunrise the morrow,” I replied.

“Then we have much to do. Let’s get started.” With that, she grabbed my hand and led me back up toward the center of camp.

It was a busy day indeed. I notified the elders of my intentions, profoundly thanking them for the tribe’s hospitality. I was gifted with a generous supply of bergamot oil and steel arrowheads. Violet explained that both would prove more valuable than gold or gem as forms of currency within the central deep forests and jungles that hosted the Tall Trees. My provisions grew to include a pouch each of wild oats and smoked mammoth strips, along with two additional waterskins.

Perhaps most significant was a gift from the tribe’s leather artisan. He presented Superian with a custom fitted saddle crafted from the very mammoth I had helped hunt and bring home to the tribe. The main portion of it was of pelt, but its pommel and cantle were crafted of bone. It was fitted with leather saddlebags and numerous fittings for attaching plenty of cargo. I welcomed the ability to carry more. While my mage satchel was indeed enchanted to hold more than its appearance suggested, its capacity was not unlimited and the more I put into it the harder it became to readily retrieve things I needed in a hurry.

I slept rather well that night, comfortably anxious to get Superian and I traveling again.

It was too early even for Dawn, my mysterious twilight butterfly friend, when I put Superian under bridle and saddle. Violet and I kept a circle of magelight active as we loaded the mare’s saddlebags.

No sooner had we finished than Vandrelis appeared out of the predawn darkness. “I wanted to say goodbye, Buffy.”

Violet complained, “Oh, imp chips! I forgot that silver ring I wanted you to have, Buffy.” She continued over her shoulder as she trotted back toward the tent, “I’ll be back in just a few minutes.”

I smiled at Violet’s perceptive courtesy for I knew she had no rings, silver or otherwise. I then turned to Vandrelis. “Thank you for coming. I was unsure if I would see you.”

He looked awkwardly at the magically-illuminated ground. “I just wanted you to know that I’m sorry things did not work out for us. You will always be welcome in my valley.”

“Thank you, brave huntsmer.” I rose up on my toes and kissed him on the cheek. “Cool waters and golden grasses to you.”

He smiled. “No longer do you speak like a Cyrodiil, fellow huntsmer. May gentle breezes carry the scent of your prey.” He turned and disappeared into the darkness.

Violet, by contrast, advertised her approach with a candlelight spell twinkling above her head.

I answered the question in her eyes. “Vandrelis is not angry with me and said I will always be welcome here.”

“I’ve no doubt he will lead this tribe well. . . but he is a fool for letting you go, Buffy. Be that as it may, I do expect you to come back and visit me.”

I nodded. “You are the only blood family I have, cou-“ I stopped myself. “I mean, sister.”

She smiled, we hugged, and tears that carried a trace of sap from the same tree mingled.

As the eastern sky began to brighten I mounted Superian and, with a final brief clasp of our hands, I left Violet and the Strid River Valley Tribe behind.

A perfect time to depart. Buffy has learned a lot from her time with the tribe, and I'm excited to see where she'll go next. The open road awaits!

I'm surprised that Superian hasn't learned that Candlelight spell, so she can tell Buffy when it's time for her grooming.

Ahhhh. Such a satisfying little chapter here!

I really have nothing to say, except that this left me with a faint smile on my lips (yes, I'm "borrowing" from Sage Rose!) and a warm feeling on the cockles of my heart.

Yup, time to leave, indeed . . .

As others have said, time to leave has come.

No big fuss about saying goodbye, that's for the best, besides Buffy will probably visit the tribe again, now that she has a sister there.

I really liked the part as Violet pretended to forget the ring.

Dawn might not be there when Buffy was departing but it will welcome her soon as skies begin to brighten.

I see Superian has even noticed the regular visits by the twilight butterfly. Dawn is such a great name for it.

“Spirits are like love.”
Now that almost brought a tear to this Witch's eye.

and I thank Azura that I found you.
A very prescient choice of spiritual figures, considering who is fluttering around on twilight wings.

Don't forget the imp chips Violet!

Time to move on. That was a lovely sojurn in the Strid River Valley. But I look forward to the land of the tall trees.

Initially I was somehow convinced Buffy and Vandrelis where going to be together but thanks to the totems we were able to see that this is not the case. They were never meant to be. Buffy's strength not only comes from her bow . . . Acadian has been nothing but helpful and wise to her ever since the beginning. The advice he gives are great, and the support he offers cannot be measured.

We are just as prepared to join Buffy in her next adventure. Steel arrowheads and some provisions were the kind gifts from the elders and the tribe . . . and I stand in agreement with Violet regarding the worth of the arrows compared to gems or coin.



Trust me I know how that feels. Buffy's on the right path here




Heh. She must have learned this from her sister, Buffy


A great and happy farewell, and a wonderful conclusion to this story arc as we learned much from Buffy and her heritage. This was one of the best you hae written, Acadian!

It's good to see Buffy moving on after she learned so much about herself and her tribe. It's time to move on and continue. Hopefully she gets to see Violet again... although I get the feeling that Violet and Vandrelis will end up together and that could make things interesting.

Even had it not been for their totems not matching up; Buffy has always been a roamer, she can't stay in one spot long. It took her a LONG time of fretting over Matias before deciding that (for him she could bring herself to stay in one spot, because he belonged to his town and it wouldn't be fair to expect him to leave it and travel with Buffy).

So I kind of expected this to be a passing thing, and Buffy's tears were for her future of not having a child; not for her future not having Vandrelis in it = that was very telling.

No, she was not ready yet, but it was a good sign that she was able to feel interest again. What she needs would be someone who is an Adventurer such as herself (that hasn't taken an arrow to the knee) who can travel with her or she with him; not someone who would try to tie her to a town or have to uproot to follow her.

I am anxious to see the familiar, and wonder if this is Kitsune's entrance, lol.

I am absolutely LOVING Buffy's unique lore in this story !!!!! Awesome Write !!!

hazmick- Thank you! It seemed like a natural time for Buffy’s wanderlust to conveniently preclude any awkwardness of staying.

ghastley- While Superian can’t cast spells, she is certainly the horse of a mage, who patiently cooperates with Buffy’s spells - even serving as guinea pic on occasion. In time, she will become more magical herself.

Rider- Aww, thanks for your kind words. Buffy’s story is and has always been primarily about feelings and how Buffy deals with them. I guess they say character-driven rather than plot-driven.

Lopov- Thank you for noting how we tried to ‘show’ how perceptively thoughtful Violet is when she ran off to fetch a nonexistent ring to provide Buffy and Vandrelis a private moment. Yes, little Dawn will show up again.

SubRosa- Thank you. I’ve long looked forward to addressing how such a tiny elf can hold so many spirits! I do think imp chips was one of your inventions but Buffy has used it for so long that part of my intent was to show how alike the two cousins are – even in their quirky cursing.

DE- Gosh, thank you so much! Even though it wasn’t all foresty, I loved developing and writing this past section of the book, so heavily influenced by prairie dwellers and ancient tribal ways.

BretonBlood- Thank you! I too am looking forward to Buffy’s travel into the dense jungles of central Valenwood.

mALX- Your assessments and comments are so very spot on. No surprise, given how well you know Buffy. Buffy can indeed love deeply enough to settle down for the right man. But. . . the right man would know that she needs to wander/adventure and not ask her to settle down. . . . We’ll introduce her familiar in this very next episode. Thanks, my friend.


Note- Now at about two thirds through the book and ready to begin its fourth (and final) part, I thought this might be a good time to review things and look ahead. Our Prelude featured a cloudtop meeting among the Nirn Mother, Sky Goddess and Mistress of Twilight. Part One saw the spirit of Phantom emerge to briefly take flight, thereby fulfilling the dragon’s small role in resolving the coming Oblivion Crisis. Part Two delivered a magnificent conjurable bow to Buffy. Part Three lingered in the Strid River valley and plains as Buffy learned much about Bosmer culture. Part Four will see Buffy travel deep into central Valenwood in search of the massive Tall Trees that spawned her.

In our previous episode- Buffy learned and cast a new ‘Find Familiar’ spell but understands that her familiar will find her at a time of its choosing – not hers. Realizing that Vandrelis was not right for her, Buffy’s wanderlust quickly resurfaced. After preparations, heartfelt thanks and some tearful goodbyes, Buffy, Superian and Acadian left the Strid River Valley Tribe.




We made good time heading south over the prairie. Despite considering myself a forest elf, I had quite grown to appreciate the rolling hills, golden grasses, wide open vistas and magnificent herds of grazing animals. The open terrain well-suited the speed, maneuverability and elevated shooting perch that Superian afforded me.

We had little trouble outrunning and exhausting a pride of hungry lions that gave us chase. The several individual grizzly bears we encountered gave plenty of noisy warning to remain clear of them – advice we readily heeded. The majestic prairie mammoths paid little heed to us as long as we navigated a respectful distance around them. A lone wolf actually skirted around us, yielding to my mighty mare. So too did numerous coyotes that seemed rather common on the plains.

One fox caught my attention, however. The animal was smaller than a coyote - with a tail that rivaled the rest of its body in size. That it had been paralleling us I took initially as coincidence or perhaps curiosity. After a time, however, I grew suspicious and turned Superian from our southerly course for a few minutes, then resumed our intended track. Sure enough the fox shadowed our movements.

I drew Superian to a stop and, after scanning for danger all the way around us, turned my attention to the fox. It stood no more than a half dozen horse lengths from us now and returned my gaze. The animal’s coat was mostly a mottled snowberry blond and buckskin in color. Its throat, chest, belly and the tip of its tail were white. “Are you my familiar?” I asked.

The animal cocked its head inconclusively.

I dismounted and slowly approached. “I’m Buffy.” Feeling a bit vulnerable more than a few steps from the speed of my mare out here in the open prairie, I backed up until my long ears could once again easily hear Superian’s breathing. I was pleased that the fox not only followed, but continued right up to me after I stopped. I took to one knee and extended a hand.

I could now tell the fox was a vixen as her nose drank the scent from my hand. “My mare’s name is Superian.” There was little doubt in my mind that this small animal was indeed my familiar and she was clearly unafraid of my mare and I. “Oh, and there’s an old paladin who travels within me that you may hear from as well.” I stood and absently twisted an errant strand of blond hair in my fingers as I pondered exactly what kind of help a small vixen could offer Superian and I. “What do you think, Acadian?”

“Firstly, greetings, fox,” he began. “Buffy, do you remember Violet’s words about what kind of familiar you might get?”

I nodded then recited, “The familiar that finds you cares little for what you want, but knows exactly what you need.”

“Perhaps she will show you when she’s ready,” he offered.

“Or maybe she’s still trying to figure out what I need,” I replied.

While Acadian and I were talking, she had moved past me and now stood directly in front of Superian. As the vixen craned her neck, Superian lowered her head until the two touched noses. The sight melted my heart and Superian’s clear endorsement of this new member to my own little tribe filled me with confidence.

“Time to get moving again,” I announced. “Hopefully we can find another water source before dark.” I mounted Superian and we continued south. I was pleased that the vixen had no trouble easily loping along at Superian’s walking pace.

The prairie gradually yielded to an increasing number of green trees. Sure enough, we soon came upon a small stream. Our progress across the plains had been superb but I noted the shadows were now long and the sun hung low above the Abecean Sea. "We'll camp here for the night."

I didn’t have to stalk on foot very far to locate a rabbit. Slayer was a magnificent bow, but ill-suited for small game – unless I wanted to spend the rest of the evening collecting rabbit parts from the prairie. Rather, emerald magic swirled from my fingertips with its characteristic lack of haste to close the dozen horse lengths between us and paralyze my small quarry. A telekinesis spell then delivered the animal to my hand. Conjuring an elven hunting knife, I used the blade’s handle to lightly thump my still immobilized prey on the back of its fragile skull to instantly kill it. I paused to thank the small creature for its bounty and wish its spirit a speedy return to the plains. My dinner-to-be was no mammoth, but it deserved my full measure of reverent gratitude.

I gathered enough readily available dead branches to last the night and, after laying a campfire, my hand flamed it to life. As the rabbit roasted, I stripped off Superian’s tack and groomed her.

Cool water and fresh rabbit under the stars made me glad to be traveling again. I offered the vixen some of my dinner. She declined. She offered me some of the snake she had caught for herself. I declined. Superian had a whole prairie to graze from, so my bigger concern for her was ensuring the mare’s significant water needs - and camping by this small stream would take care of that for the evening at least.

After dinner I cleaned my teeth using the bamboo and boar bristle toothbrush that Daenlin had fletched for me long ago. A small doeskin pouch carried my toothcleaning powder - a finely ground mixture of iris flowers, mint leaves, salt and glow dust that Ardaline of the Bravil Mages Guild had taught me to make.

I then dropped my clothes and stepped into the stream. Although not deep enough to swim in, I splashed around enough to remove the day’s worth of prairie dust. After drying off with a conjured towel, I built up my fire to help deter predators.

Finally, I curled up in a wolf pelt that Violet had given me, relying on the keen ears and noses of mare and fox to keep watch through the night.

The vixen’s spirit visited mine while I slept. I learned her name and that she was skilled with both illusion and alteration. When I opened my eyes to the dying embers of my fire and slight glow from the eastern horizon, her face was inches from mine. Dark eyes stared intently at me as soft breath tickled my nose. Ears that rivaled mine and Superian’s in size swiveled and perked in search of threatening sounds. “Good morning, Kitsune.”

My twilight butterfly guardian, Dawn, visited us for a time as I broke camp, topped up my waterskins and saddled Superian. Once astride my mare, we continued south.

Aaaah that's the stuff. Some good ol' wilderness wandering to make Buffy feel more...Buffy-ish. We also meet the new member of the group - Cute? check. Friendly? Check. Long ears? Check. Welcome to the gang!

I like the way magic is an everyday thing in Buffy's world. Not just talking to Kitsume, but Paralysis/Telekensis for rabbit-hunting, and summoned towels.

Summoned towel for the win! If this was ever mentioned before, I must have missed it.

Warm welcome to Kitsune! Those warm, dark eyes of her might be just what Buffy needs.

Aaaand Here's Kitsune! How wonderful that we get to see how she and Buffy meet!

Familiar, indeed! She is perfect for our little Bravilian Blond Bosmeri Bowgirl!

What the fox said! It is nice to finally learn the story of how Buffy found her fox companion.

So we have found out what Buffy's familiar is, very nice. I like how Buffy's spirit can connect with the familiar in her sleep, almost as if she is going to the spirit world to talk with her familiar. I can't wait to see how Kitsune helps out Buffy in the future.

I had wondered if this was Kitsune's role in Buffy Lore, really glad to learn how Kitsune fits in the big picture of Buffy's life! And yeah, she feels more in her element in nature and traveling than locked down into town life.

I have always loved Buffy's use of magic for everyday things, but have to say that I didn't enjoy hearing about the killing of the bunny,

Wasn't there a children's song about picking up rabbits and bopping them on the head? Probably good Maxical was a vegitarian, lol. Urk.

Awesome Write !!!!

Episode 18, "Spirits are like love." Like I've told my children, love multiplies. (It's time that divides! ) I thought it was great that after some thought Buffy realized that her totems protected her future even though it cost her some immediate disappointment.

Aw, Buffy's warm rump has soothing properties. Now everyone's going to want a treatment. What a very well-timed and peaceful departure. After all, a good way to move on is to move on. How lovely to know that wherever Buffy wanders, she and Violet are connected through sisterly love and that trace of tree sap.

Episode 19, Snowberry blond! I love that Slayer is not for hunting rabbits. Buffy's interaction with her familiar over dinner was sweet and also exciting, for it showed some nice non-verbal communication between elf and fox. Then when Kitsune introduced herself to Buffy as she slept, it just got better! Buffy is traveling to the Tall Trees with a small, beautifully-eared tribe of her own. Oh, and somehow it tickled me that Kitsune offered Buffy a bite of her dead snake.

hazmick- Hee, Buffy and the Long-Eared Gang! It did indeed feel good to be on the road again. Thank you!

ghastley- As ever, I appreciate your insight. Displaying how seamlessly magic flows through Buffy’s routine tasks was part of my intent.

Lopov- Buffy can’t conjure big storm atronachs but she’s pretty good at summoning mundane objects. Similarly, she can’t blow up buildings with fireballs or freeze enemies in their tracks, but can use destruction magic to cook, chill an ale or start a campfire.

Rider- I confess that part of our vixen selection was due to what we could cobble together as a follower in Skyrim. I’m delighted that the Fennic Fox in ESO suits Buffy just as wonderfully. Thank you!

SubRosa- Thank you. And coming up, we’ll begin to learn of what help the little fox can be to the little elf, big mare and old paladin.

BretonBlood- Thanks! Buffy’s ability to host spirits goes ever so far back – to when she first learned of the old paladin within her. That inspired us to develop the idea of her tribe being ‘Spirit Catchers’.

mALX- As ever, you know Buffy so well. She did indeed leisurely relish over every detail of her first night back on the road with her own little gang. She is most at home under the stars sleeping near her precious mare.

Grits- I figure the spooning helped Buffy's wounded heart more than Violet's semiannual cramps. I’ve been trying to figure out how to work in ‘snowberry blond’ for quite some time. Superian requires quite a bit of care and feeding; I’m glad Kitsune seems much more self-sustaining – even unobtrusive. Thank you!


Previously- Buffy, Acadian and Superian made good progress traveling south across the prairie as golden grasses and acacias finally yielded to deciduous forest. They were joined by a new member of Buffy’s small tribe – a vixen familiar named Kitsune.



By midmorning, our southerly trek had left the prairie behind. Open forest now surrounded us.

Loud grunting heralded the sudden charge of a giant boar, nearly half Superian’s size. Instinctively, we wheeled and my mare was thundering back the way we came before I remembered Kitsune. We circled just widely enough to remain clear of the slower boar and raced back in search of the vixen. Suddenly I felt her – as a spirit - within me. A moment later she materialized, curled up securely in the small space between my hips and the bone pommel of Superian’s saddle.

Relieved, I focused Superian’s speed and maneuvering on quickly exhausting the pursuing tusker. After a short time, the boar slowed to a walk and stopped, barely able to stand. I could hear its exhausted panting. “You’re lucky I’m not hunting large game today.” We resumed our southerly course as I taunted over my shoulder, “Big pig.”

Kitsune circled around my waist several times before deciding that she did indeed prefer the spot right in front of me instead of behind me in the saddle. “It’s nice to know that I can’t lose you,” I remarked. After a time, she leaped to the ground and resumed her easy lope alongside us.

By late afternoon, good luck carried the soft babble of a nearby spring to the long ears of my thirsty mare, Kitsune and I. As we slowly approached, bad luck carried the hoarse grumbling of trolls. We stopped as two of the monsters came into view next to a small spring-fed pool.

“My mare needs water,” I stated quietly. “I don’t suppose you’ll share?”

One troll thumped his chest as the other bounced aggressively up and down. Both increased the pitch of their threatening grunts.

“I didn’t think so.”

If I dismounted, I had several options involving magic and bow but surrendered speed, elevation and maneuverability. To retain the advantages of mounted archery meant foregoing my arsenal of spells. In either case I was unsure what Kitsune could bring to a fight. Choosing to remain in the saddle, I unshouldered Slayer and backed Superian up to gain the flexibility that more range provided.

My first arrow solidly staggered one of the beasts. His friend roared loudly and began the peculiar ambling charge of a troll. While Slayer helped draw my second arrow, Kitsune loudly yipped a challenge. To my surprise the troll instantly veered toward her instead of the much larger threat posed by a mounted archer! Trolls could never be accused of being the brightest arrows in the quiver, but even they weren’t that dumb. As an illusionist, I quickly recognized my own school of magic in play. Clearly, Kitsune’s yip was some form of targeted ‘taunt’ magic.

My second arrow finished the already wounded troll near the spring, allowing us to focus on just one foe. I began nocking a third arrow, with still no reason to maneuver my mare.

By now the remaining troll was upon Kitsune. His long arms swung repeatedly as the vixen nimbly danced narrowly clear. Just before my arrow slammed into him, he managed to connect, sending the small fox through the air. Simultaneously, I felt a small but sudden drop in my magicka. She landed on her feet and immediately charged right back across the troll’s frontage to retain his attention on her. Neither her appearance nor movement indicated she had taken damage from the troll’s solid hit that would have killed a normal fox. Her low stature made her easy to aim over and my next arrow killed the troll.

Slayer was still dispelling as I slipped to the ground and ran to my familiar. Bright eyes showing no signs of distress greeted me. Placing my hands upon her, Acadian provided the restoration magic for me to assess her condition and heal any injuries she might have. Her physical damage was limited to only the mildest of bruising – which Acadian and I quickly healed.

I stood, scratching my head. “So, you can taunt foes, causing them to target you instead of Superian and I. In return, it seems, a successful attack against you robs my magicka instead of your health. Our lives and spirits seem quite intertwined. Your warcries and agility allow me to safely bring my bow to bear. It’s also clear that, even as you defend me, I must kill our foes before their attacks against you overwhelm my arcane reserves and leave you vulnerable.”

I recalled that, during her dance with the troll, Kitsune had made no effort to bite – not that her small teeth could have damaged such foes. I shook my head in amazement as the full implications struck home. “You are all shield and no weapon, whereas. . . I am all weapon and no shield!”

Acadian recited Violet’s words to me again, “The familiar that finds you cares little for what you want, but knows exactly what you need.”

“So it would seem,” I replied. Kitsune tilted her head happily and waved a luxuriant tail, causing me to chuckle, then add, “And to top it off, my valiant vixen, you seem to relish your role. You are indeed what I need.”

For two more days, we traveled through the forest as the trees gradually grew denser and the underbrush thicker. As Kitsune and I grew more comfortable together, I learned that with a thought from me – or on her own whim - she would willingly retreat to within me. Similarly, she would exit the sanctuary my body provided and appear at my side whenever she chose or at my telepathic request. More and more I was beginning to understand what it meant to be a Spirit Catcher.

Another day of travel saw the forest transition to jungle. Ferns and creeping foliage covered the ground. All manner of tropical trees filled the air with vines, fronds, leaves and branches. The highest of these rose to a canopy that increasingly obscured the sky. Our progress slowed dramatically and I was grateful for three sets of perked long ears, listening for danger.

An intense encounter, but nothing the gang can't handle - especially now that they have Kitsune the magplar Spirit Fox shielding them!

Beautiful description and demonstration of Kitsune's abilities and limitations. I love that Kitsune's shield-type magic draws from Buffy's magicka. Kitsune's taunts can keep a foe's aggression focused on her, but there is still a sense of urgency for Buffy to finish them off. Her familiar gives Buffy some time and space to do what she does best but doesn't do the job for her. I love the balance of power and vulnerability in Buffy's world.

Oh my gosh, I'm so excited to see Team Buffy enter the magnificent and dangerous jungle!!

Hey Acadian I sent you a PM. You responded but I never did. Well just got settled and now I have more time to catch up on things.


Part Four:

Oh I so wanted to read more about the exciting chase between the pride of lions and Buffy and co. Upon meeting and coming across so many animals it was expected that she would cross her familiar. I am surprised and yet no so much that it turned out to be a fox. I remember Kitsune before in her adventures in her potpourri. Great to see how they met each other! Se'll make a fine companion. We've all grown on her already hehehe.

I said it before and I'll say it again. Buffy is to be admired. There is no great measure between life where she's considered; whether it be small game or a titanic-sized one, all creatures are worthy of respect and reverence. I like that about her.


Episode 20:

That was a close one. Whether it a prairie or forest, danger and threats always lurks. Fortunate for her she was able to oust the pork. If Trolls were any smarted, they'd allow her to pass on about to get some water. The only smart troll I know was the one who wrote that letter under a bridge before he drowned . . . and the grammar was atrocious, but anyway Buffy made small work of them.

Kitsune had me amused from start to finish. She's the epitome of cute. There is a fine contrast there and ability that she has . . . quite useful for Buffy and Superian. This was a fantastic way to learn about her powers of luring and distraction as she balances Buffy. It all comes to full circle in the lessons we've learned about familiars and Acadian's words of wisdom.

Welcome to the jungle . . . Fun and games?

Great write Acadian!

I remember (years ago now) when you were first discovering Kitsune's role in combat and her perfect size for Buffy to shoot over her and not hit her! This is such a more detailed explanation, very cool lore you are creating here!!!

My favorite line has already been brought out, but deserves a second quoting:



Awesome Write !!!

Everybody else has already noted the same point. Your best ally complements your abilities, rather than matching them.

And the landscape continues to change. Are we there yet?

It is nice to know that Buffy cannot lose Kitsune. One of the nice things about being a spirit, is not being tied to any particular atoms.

I don't think the trolls are going to share that water either! Time for the bow I think.

being the brightest arrows in the quiver
I smiled at this wonderfully appropriate analogy.

Tying Kitsune's physical form to Buffy's magicka was a very clever turn of world-building. It also ties in so perfectly with Buffy's heritage as a Spirit Catcher

You describe trolls so perfectly here!

This is deep too...



That was fun reading about some Buffy in action.

Nice chapter Acadian. I love the way you incorporated Kitsune in this chapter with how when she is attacked it affects Buffy's magicka, I thought that was very genius.

Kitsune is very cute, you can just picture her actions perfectly and it makes you kind of laugh at a tiny little fox taking on a troll and acting fierce. She is the perfect match for Buffy, as you said, she is all shield and no weapon, or you might say all bark and no bite... and Buffy is the opposite so they are perfect for each other.

Kitsune is just the cutest possible shield.

Very vivid description of trolls thumping their chests and bouncing as they spotted a possible prey.

hazmick- Aww, thanks! Glad you enjoyed meeting Kitsune.

Grits- Buffy is used to the interdependence of symbiant/host due to her long association with Acadian. It just seemed natural that Buffy and Kistune (just like Buffy and Superian also) must depend on each other to survive. I so hope you enjoy our foray into the jungle. Though it was written before I touched ESO, it is not as dissimilar as I feared it might be.

DE- Thanks for drawing out the importance/reverence that Buffy affords the prey that she needs to sustain herself – be it mammoth or rabbit. I’m also glad you’re enjoying Kitsune. We designed her to be low maintenance – unlike the ever-present care/feeding considerations that Superian demands.

mALX- Thank you. I’m delighted that Kitsune has become a ‘keeper’. Though her role evolves somewhat, she has a place in Skyrim, our fiction and even ESO.

ghastley- I do enjoy the similarities and contrasts between the little elf and her vixen. Are we there yet? Yup, coming right up!

SubRosa- Thank you. As I mentioned to Grits, Superian is a high-maintenance girl to the point of driving Buffy’s decisions/choices. I wanted Kitsune to be pretty care-free. I do like how elf and fox are bound together in their own way – different but similar to Buffy-Acadian and Buffy-Superian.

Renee- Gosh, I’m so glad the troll charge came across as TES-accurate. Thanks also for your kind words about how we described familiars.

BretonBlood- Thank you. I wanted Buffy and Kitsune to be interdependent. That the vixen uses Buffy’s magicka for 'reactive shielding' seemed perfect to help establish that.

Lopov- So glad you enjoyed meeting Kitsune and the troll fight! Thanks!


Previously- As Buffy continued south into woodlands, it was a battle with two trolls where Kitsune showcased her value. The vixen familar used illusion to distract foes, along with agility to avoid most hits and the ability to tap Buffy’s magicka as a damage-absorbing shield when necessary. As the group continued south, deciduous forest transitioned to increasingly dense jungle.



As the jungle continued to thicken, it eventually and completely hamstrung my large mare’s life-saving speed and maneuverability. I gave up trying to ride at all.

With Superian following closely, stealth – my normal ally on foot - was useless. The thick undergrowth reduced our visibility, stealing away the advantage of my keen vision and powerful bow’s range. Every few steps, I had to pulse my detection spell to verify the immediate area was free of predators. Even Kitsune’s ability to nimbly dance clear of foes was hampered by the dense flora. Encounters in the jungle with larger carnivores such as wolves, panthers and even durzogs, required the vixen to distract them while my magicka absorbed damage meant for her and I fired Slayer from nearly point blank range. All manner of small creeping, crawling and slithering threats concealed themselves beneath the thorny undergrowth. Sleep was out of the question, so I had to rely on my spells to stave off fatigue. The trees were getting taller though – at least I assumed so based on how expansive some of their girths had become. The canopy screened their upper branches from view.

After a day and a half of this, we paused near the base of the widest tree trunk I had yet seen. Too much time relying on spells instead of sleep was taking its toll as I leaned unsteadily against Superian. “I don’t think I can go on, Acadian.” Tears began to spill. “I-I’m even beginning to question my ability to get us back out of here.”

“Whatever choice you make is fine, Buffy,” replied the paladin, “but you’re too exhausted to either continue or retreat right now. You desperately need sleep before making such a decision.”

“Everything down here wants to eat us!” I cried in exhausted desperation.

“You must get above the dangers of the jungle floor and up into the branches of one of these big trees. There you can sleep.”

“I will not abandon my mare down here while I seek safety above. And we’ve already determined that Kitsune will not separate herself from me to guard Superian.”

“Then you will carry Superian up into the trees with you.”

“Acadian, I’m so tired. . . you don’t even want to hear what I think you just said.”

“You heard correctly, Buffy. Do not underestimate the dragon within your mare. Just as Phantom turned from spirit to join with Superian, I believe that, if I use our Call of Corsair power, she can return to spirit form, bringing the mare with her and back by my side – safely within you.”

Astonishment at the prospect pushed only some of my fatigue aside. I recalled learning the Call of Corsair ability from the ghost of King Rislav the Righteous in Skingrad and had used it many times to teleport Superian to me. “I’m so exhausted, my paladin, that I don’t trust myself to think this through. . . Superian’s tack, my supplies, how we return her to horse form and, I’m sure other questions that elude me. . . . All I know is that I trust you. Tell me what I must do to recover from the mess I’ve led us into.”

“Cast your stamina spell one more time, Buffy, then follow my instructions. By the time it wears off, I hope we will have you up where you can safely rest."

After I cast my spell, Acadian directed my actions as I moved some dried mammoth strips from Superian’s saddlebags into my mage satchel and strapped two waterskins to myself. “What about her tack and the rest of our supplies?”

“Anything cinched or strapped to her will travel with your mare. I know you are exhausted, Buffy. It will not be long now before you can sleep. Just place your hands on Superian when you are ready to receive her spirit.”

I did so. “I’m ready, my paladin.”

“Ven Sah Liz,” he said, “return to me. I need you.”

Acadian’s simple words still hung in the air as his magic traveled through my hands into the mare. Superian’s form began to fade into swirling vapors that gradually engulfed both she and I. I could feel her twin spirit joining with mine. Then the vapors, mare, tack – all of it was gone.

“She is safely with me, Buffy. Climb this tree before your stamina spell wears off.”

I scrambled aloft, so tired that it only vaguely registered when Kitsune took sanctuary within me. Continuing up a ways, I stopped when I came to a promisingly wide fork in the branches. I sat and took a long pull from a waterskin, then tried to get comfortable.

Acadian said, “Sleep here, Buffy. You were conceived in the treetops of this land. Trust to the ancient instincts within you. You will not fall.”

“Thank you, Acadian, I’ll try to get some . . . .“ exhaustion claimed me before I could even finish my sentence.

I awoke slowly with a luxuriant stretch before I remembered where I was. Sure enough, I had slept well – and not fallen. “Good morning, my paladin. How long. . . ?”

“It is midday. You went to sleep early yesterday afternoon.”

I stretched again and tested my limbs. “I guess I needed every bit of it. I’m not even as sore I would have thought.” I giggled. “I guess I really am a tree elf after all.”

“I’m glad your head is clear,” he replied. “Might I make a suggestion?”

“Please do,” I urged.

“If you climb this tree high enough to get above the canopy, you should be able to get a better perspective on things to help you decide our course.”

“Good idea,” I said, but my stomach insistently rumbled its dissent. I sat in the tree’s fork to chew down a couple smoked mammoth strips and chase them with a pull from one of my waterskins. I then quietly burped and started my climb.

My upper body strength was poor but being light of light weight meant little was required. It was also not lost on me that slender branches that would never hold a Nord or Imperial easily supported my ascent without even bending. I now fully appreciated why elves of the Cloud Dancer tribes had light, almost birdlike bones. Fragile yes, but well-suited for the trees.

The shadows of the jungle brightened as I climbed. When I finally got above the canopy and my eyes adjusted to the explosion of sunshine and clear sky, I looked to the south out over an endless sea of emerald treetops. Piercing the canopy were numerous taller trees. Of these, a handful rose impossibly high. I stared in disbelief. “Acadian, look at that! Surely an elf in their high branches could kiss Masser and Secunda as they passed by those towering giants at night!”

“Buffy, do you think some of those trees host elves?”

“I imagine they do.” I heaved a sigh. “Do you think we should try to continue or turn back?”

“Superian is safe,” he began. “I expect that food, water and places to rest are plentiful up here if you know where to look. I think that if you trust your elven ingenuity and tribal instincts, either course is well within your grasp.”

“Our grasp,” I corrected. Pointing south toward the tallest tree I could see, I declared, “We’re going that way.”

Your description of what Buffy was feeling in the beginning of this chapter is the overwhelming feeling that hits me every single time I enter Grahtwood; where I'm sure she is at this moment in her story. And she didn't mention the jungle noises, but your description was vivid enough that I could hear them!

Awesome write, you really brought the feeling of being there out so well! And I'll bet she is headed toward Elden Root now!

What I love about this is that = all this was written before you even picked up the ESO game and played it, so your imagination was so spot on for what is actually in that region!!!!!

Totally Awesome Write !!!


Two Nits:



Missed an edit here.




should be able to get a better perspective?

“Everything down here wants to eat us!” I cried in exhausted desperation.

Perfect. I love how the needs of surviving the jungle drove Buffy naturally up into the trees. Without Violet as a tour guide Buffy will discover the answers within herself, before she sees or hears from other tree-dwelling elves (if she eventually does) how they thrive in their environment. What a marvelous journey!

I have yet to visit the Dominion lands in ESO. So I am relying on Buffy's story to draw a picture of the jungles of Valenwood for us.

What I noticed in this chapter are several instances where Buffy is adapting her lifestyle/daily routines to the quirks of gameplay not just in Skyrim, but also in ESO. Most notably, what happens to the mounts when you dismount them. Also I am glad to see Buffy starting to adapt her hunting style to shorter range encounters, characteristic of ESO combat. If you wrote all this before picking up the game as mALX said, I'm pretty impressed! It is impressive that every sentence in this segment foreshadows the adjustments Buffy the perennial avatar has had to make moving from Oblivion to Skyrim and on to ESO.

Wonderful!

I imagine it wasn't easy for Buffy as she ventured into thick jungle. Not only she couldn't ride her mare any longer but her vision was obscured by thick growth. So checking the surroundings / exploring the place from heights sounds like a good alternative. Paladin is right - sometimes a good night's sleep is all you need and problems present at night, are only a dim memory in the morning.

It's interesting to see a Bosmer struggling in the forest, where the natives thrive. Buffy has much to learn about being a woodsy wood elf, it seems.

As hazmick points out, she's having to adapt to wood elf country. Riding a horse is something they wouldn't do, it seems.

I've always pictured them travelling between the trees above ground, so I'm curious to see how she proceeds from here. Will she find an aerial roadway?

The jungle terrain is just as dangerous and unpredictable as the creatures that dwell there, and Buffy is through a whole different level of stress when it comes to traversing these lands. It can be unsettling for a young explorer like herself in such a giant jungle. I've never ventured in Valenwood but I have seen and heard of plenty of other adventurers in ESO that have been there. How overwhelming it must have been for her.

Her selfless spirit comes out well here. She's so thoughtful of Superian. Once again Acadian comes to the aid of our dear Mystic Archer, and gives valuable advice not only to aid Buffy but her mare.

At least she got some deserved rest here.

“Acadian, look at that! Surely an elf in their high branches could kiss Massur and Secunda as they passed by those towering giants at night!”

Nit(Or perhaps not): Massur here should be "Masser." I don't know if that was intentional, and was meant to portray the way Buffy says it.