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Acadian
Welcome to Book 2 and the continuing adventures of Buffy the Bosmeri mystic archer!

Buffy is a child of Tamriel, raised in Bravil and trained at the Arcane University. Her bigger story arc will eventually and magically cross temporal boundaries, enabling her to travel between the Third and Fourth Eras. Although Book 2 takes place in late Third Era Valenwood, Buffy's magicks and abilities reflect a blend of several games, with Skyrim being the most influential.

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 bowgirl who retreated in grief and despair to her ancestral homeland. Book 2 picks up shortly thereafter and chronicles Buffy's journey of recovery and self-discovery through Valenwood.

Book 1 (in both its staggering 176 episode entirety and an executive summary conveniently distilled to 1650 words) is available in my sub forum. That said, enjoying Book 2 does not really require more information than is contained right here in these few introductory paragraphs. For those not familiar with Buffy's long history, reading the executive summary is a nice overview - but not critical for those who wish to just jump right in here. I have taken care within Book 2 to have Buffy review significant aspects of her past as they become relevant.

The Valenwood we depict will certainly be recognizable to those familiar with its lore, but I have taken some geographic and cultural liberties. While forests and jungles are plentiful, we have extended the rolling prairies of Anvil's Gold Coast across the Strid River into the northern portion of Valenwood. Among our several cultural departures from Bosmeri lore, the most significant is that there is no Green Pact in Buffy Fiction. While Bosmer certainly revere nature, they gratefully use both its flora and fauna as needed - restricted primarily by a deep revulsion to wasting nature's precious gifts. This is the same philosophy that Buffy learned as a child from her archery master, Daenlin, as described in Book 1.

Buffy's is a character-driven tale and our focus is on the journey more than the destination. I estimate that, at one episode per week, the book will take roughly six months to post. My fervent hope is that you find our humbly-offered efforts worthy of your time.
* * *

~ Prelude ~


Episode 1

Spooked by small tremors beneath his hoofs, a young buck bolted from the moonlit meadow into the surrounding forest.

The ground’s slight quivering soon grew into a quiet rumble from deep beneath its surface. Despite the significant disturbance, it was but a tiny seedling that gently pushed aside the soil until it could unfurl into the night air. Once free, it quickly grew into a young sapling of about the same height as a person. A pair of opposing branches reached out to become arms. The trunk transformed into a feminine torso with two legs. Roots broke free from soil taking the shape of feet. Leaves grew into robes.

The resultant woman slipped her hood back upon slender shoulders, revealing olive skin and a softly featured face. Hair, the color of the loam from which she had risen, was gathered into a rather matronly low ponytail that trailed down her back. Eyes, dark as those of a doe, radiated love and compassion. She lifted her gaze and slowly rose toward the stars.

High enough in the same night sky to nearly touch Masser and Secunda there floated another robed figure. Her coloring was pale. The strong Nordic face was framed by a mane of freely flowing golden hair. Eyes the color of a bright afternoon sky carried wildness and a trace of sadness. She spread her robes into white wings and gently glided downward.

The Nirn Mother and Sky Goddess met atop a cloud and briefly embraced.

With a downward glance from Mara, a table along with three chairs grew from the cloud’s surface. “Will you do the honors, sister?”

Kynareth passed a hand over the table, causing an elegant tea service for three to appear. She looked to the east. “Do I see the slightest hint of light from the horizon?”

“I believe so,” replied Mara.

The two Divines waited quietly as they stood side-by-side, focusing their gaze eastward toward the promise of a new day.

When the grip of night could no longer restrain the sun and the earliest golden beams began to spill across the sky, a butterfly danced up over the edge of the cloud that served as tea platform. On pale green wings the tiny creature fluttered to a hover in front of the Divines.

If there was any warning or display of spellcasting, the blink of an eye would have missed it as the butterfly simply and instantly transformed into a third robed woman.

“Welcome, cousin,” said Mara.

The new arrival slipped back her hood, glanced down at the cloud vapors swirling around her feet then surveyed the scene. Unlike the white robes worn by Mara and Kynareth, the Goddess of Twilight’s robe was black, as was her severely restrained long silken hair. Emerald eyes conveyed the enigmatic blend of light and darkness that was her realm. Voluptuous ruby lips contrasted with her sharply angled cheekbones, gaunt face and creamily pale skin. Her exotic look was complemented by human-sized ears that each rose to a delicate point. “Mara, so nice to see you again. You also, Kyne. . . or is it Kynareth I understand you’re calling yourself these days?” Azura’s smile did not reach her eyes.

The two Divines, however, smiled graciously. “I am called Kynareth now. Thank you for coming. Tea?”

The three immortals sat. As Mara filled their cups, Kynareth asked, “I trust all is well in Moonshadow?”

“I believe you both know I can only leave it briefly twice a day during twilight. I presume you did not ask me here for tea and small talk?”

If the Divines took slight it did not show as Mara replied, “You are right of course, so I’ll get directly to the point. We need your help to foil Mehrunes Dagon’s pending plans of conquest.”

Azura lifted an eyebrow. “Go on.”

Mara took a deep breath. “I’m sure you realize that Dagon is only pausing after Kvatch. Now that he knows he can open portals from the Deadlands, he is doubtless engaged in the slow task of procuring and inscribing many more morpholiths into sigil stones. Meanwhile, his cultists relentlessly hunt for Martin Septim, hoping to snuff out any chance of relighting the protective Dragonfires. When Dagon has completed enough of the stones, we are sure he will unleash scores of his Daedra-spewing portals. . . no offence, mind you.”

“None taken, cousin,” Azura replied icily, “but why should I care about any of this?”

“Two reasons,” said Mara. “As Dagon opens more portals, his plague will spread across all of Tamriel, replacing your cycles of dawn and dusk with a permanent Oblivion sky.”

“Well, I concede you have a point.” Azura straightened slightly in her chair. “You mentioned a second reason that I should be concerned?”

“Yes,” stated Mara, “that brings us to an elf named Buffy who carries something we need.”

Azura’s eyes flashed concern, then anger. “What does my Slayer have to do with this?” Her tone was threateningly protective. “You Divines claim to care about mortals, yet you ignore their daily plight.” Emerald eyes glared at Kynareth with contempt. “As soon as Buffy’s mother, Marian, realized a new life grew within her, she asked you to be godmother to her child. And you ignored her.” Azura’s ire shifted to Mara as she continued. “Turning to the so called Goddess of Love, she received the same silent response. In desperation, Marian made her plea to the rising sun on the following morn. I did not ignore her.”

Azura seemed to compose herself somewhat as she lowered her cup to the table and continued, “Indeed, I was intrigued by the prospect. That I am poorly equipped for such a task did not deter me. It is my hand of faith that touched the tiny elf at the moment of her sunrise birth. I heard her first fitful, crying breaths. As I watched her grow from a distance, I confess the little urchin. . . touched something within me. I found myself often taking the innocuous form of a twilight butterfly in order to observe the mer-child more closely. The concept of love is a foreign one to my kind but, over time, I believe that is exactly what I began to feel for this young elf as I watched her stumble and scrape her knees, get teased by human children about her small size and large ears, drop her clothes at every waterhole and dance with butterflies. Sometimes she quite unknowingly even danced with me. I question whether you lofty Divines actually know what it means to love a child?”

The Goddess of Twilight clearly expected no answer as she continued, “Buffy’s bow kept her alive as she blossomed into young maturity. When she needed a means of replenishing its magic, who provided the answer in the form of an artifact that would help? I did. When love drew her toward mortal danger at Kvatch, who arranged for Lord Peryite to provide her the training needed to survive the Deadlands and fight Daedra? I did. When she prayed to each of you for comfort after her body and heart were broken mere months ago, what response did she get?” Azura’s words dripped with disdain for the pair of Divines as she answered her own question, “The same silence you gave her mother.”

“Your points are well taken, cousin,” replied Mara gently. “We Divines are skilled with creation, but our efforts to intervene directly with the affairs of mortals have led to disaster more often than not. At best, our ability to communicate directly with them is vague and tenuous. Even those who devote themselves to us in priestly service struggle to understand our intent. As a Daedra Lord, you must also realize that when you effectively claimed this child at birth, you quite fettered our already limited ability to communicate with or even influence her.”

Azura's eyes and tone softened noticeably. “I lack your skill with creation, cousins. And my passions sometimes lead to . . . regrettable results when dealing with mortals as well. But unlike you, I don’t shy from the need when it arises.”

It was Kynareth who spoke next. “It seems clear, ladies, that cooperation might be appropriate here.”
mALX

Wow, this was a fascinating and totally unexpected beginning to Book 2; Buffy's importance in the realms is going to be made much clearer than we knew of her in Book 1! This is Awesome, the idea of Azura taking Mara (who I know Buffy "worships") to task over her!

Awesome write, this was amazing!


SubRosa
I was uncommonly tickled to see Kynareth and Mara being described as the Nirn-Mother and Sky-Goddess. Kynareth especially made a fantastic entrance. Since they are waiting for the first glimmer of twilight, that could only mean one other is on the way.

Im sure you realize that Dagon is only pausing after Kvatch.
And now we know exactly when this is set

Just who I expected. smile.gif You gave us a wonderful description of the not only the abilities, but also inabilities of both Divine and Daedra. I did not fail to note how you framed those strengths and weaknesses in opposition to one another. Which leads to the inevitable conclusion that acting in concert is in all their best interests. I am sure we will be seeing that subject broached in our next episode.


hazmick
Excellent start. Interesting take on the divines and daedra, and 3 very different but wonderfully described ladies.

It seems Buffy still has a part to play in Tamriel's future, and of course ol' Mehrunes is still up to no good. I'm very much looking forward to it. happy.gif
ghastley
"You worship the Nine Divines, perhaps? Have they ever helped or harmed you? Of course not. Now, worship a Daedra Lord, and you get effects... bad ones, of course, but clear and measurable effects." Ulene Hlervu.

I see much the same logic here. The Aedra have limited ability to affect the now, having used it all up at the start. The Daedra did nothing to begin with, but can at least do something in the present. Except that most of what they can do is limited to their own realms, unless invited to act elsewhere, such as at their shrines. Mara and Kynareth can invite Azura to be their operative, and do things they can't, so they do have more power together.

Hmmm....

Andrea
Although I confess I still have yet to finish book 1, I got sucked right into this Prelude!

The Idea of Mara, Azura and Kynareth having a delightful cup of tea tickled me in a good way. Discussing the possible destruction of Nirn at Dagons hand, whilst drinking a cup of earl grey... PERFECTION!

I'm really excited to see where this story goes... seems like Buffy is worth more to these immortals than she origionally thought tongue.gif
Darkness Eternal
The three godesses and Buffy! What a privilege to be among these deities! This was very interesting. The differences between Kynarath and Mara and Azura is noticeable, and it extends beyond the color of their robes.

Heh, and Azura is mighty protective of her Slayer! So, Dagon's vile deeds have been noticed by the immortals.

This is great.
Grits
I loved the ultra-feminine sparring match over tea in the clouds! The two Divines and their Daedric cousin had me in absolute thrall throughout. Episode 1 answers the future question “But why don’t they just…” before it can become a distraction in the story, which is excellent and I’m taking notes. biggrin.gif I felt for Buffy’s mother Marian without even needing to hear what the problem was.

I think you did beautiful justice to all three immortals, but I am in awed delight over Kynareth. Her appearance made my Nord’s heart sing. wub.gif
Acadian
During Episode 1, Mara and Kynareth invited Azura to join them for tea and a discussion about Mehrunes Dagon’s pending plans for invasion. We learned that, somehow, Buffy seems to have a role to play. We also discovered that (unknown to Buffy), Azura is her godmother.

mALX- Thank you – Book 2 has been a long time in the making, no? Perhaps that is good, for it has given Buffy and I time to blend Oblivion and Skyrim in a way that makes sense for her.

SubRosa- So glad you enjoyed our portrayal (so far) of the three disparate goddesses. Thanks for highlighting what I hoped you would – Divines are good at creation, whereas Daedra Lords are good at directly influencing the here and now.

hazmick- Thank you! Buffy’s role in Tamrielic history is as a minor facilitator - a mere footnote in history. She was essential to Kvatch regaining its freedom, for example, but history will record her simply and anonymously as ‘the elven scout’ who helped Captain Savlian Matius close the first Oblivion Gate.

ghastley- I laughed at your game quote about the Aedra and Daedra – but that is pretty close to my view. Thank you. I credit you and McB with the inspiration to actually portray the immortals as fully inflicted with the concerns, trepidations, emotions and drama associated with mortals – real personalities as it were. We all knew Azura was capable of some serious vengeance, but who knew that a tiny elfling could unknowingly teach a Daedra Lord to love?

Andrea- No worries on Book 1. The bite-sized (~1600 word) executive summary in my sub forum will bring you up to speed – as will Buffy during her in progress recollections here in Book 2. Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement!

DE- Thanks! It has occurred to me for a long time that even though Buffy - born at the exact moment of sunrise - has no idea that Azura is her godmother, the two have quite a bit in common. Both dance between darkness and light, wear their emotions on their sleeves, and are capable of strong passions that drive them to action - for better or worse.

Grits- I so appreciate your kind words. You nailed it about the gods – they have limitations and don’t even necessarily play well together. Happily, immortal limitations also affect the more evil ones – as we learned, it will take Dagon quite some time to craft enough sigil stones to kick off the Oblivion Crisis in earnest. In fact, it will take him about as long as it does for us to complete Book 2. wink.gif

* * *

Episode 2

“Cousin Azura, you asked why the impending crisis will affect Buffy,” stated Kynareth. “You must know that once Dagon begins opening portals in large numbers that the young Septim’s Orsimer champions – what are their names again, sister?”

“Sir Mazoga and Grand Champion Agronak gro-Malak.” There was a hint of chastisement in Mara’s voice as she added, “And the young Septim, as you call him, has a name as well – it is Martin.”

“Oh yes,” continued Kynareth. “The large green pair will, of course, valiantly attempt to close all those Oblivion Gates and, ultimately, try to protect their emperor against Dagon himself. I know that your elf considers herself broken at the moment, but how do you suppose she will react as she learns that her close friend, Sir Mazoga, is up to her broad shoulders in danger?”

Azura nodded soberly. “Then you must stop Dagon, for mortals alone cannot defeat him. Nor can I. While there is neither loyalty nor trust among Daedric Princes, we are precluded from acting directly against one another without a majority concurring. To gain such agreement is akin to herding cats and has not occurred since we long ago agreed to split Sheogorath into his two disparate halves so they could annoy one another instead of the rest of us.”

“That brings us back to Buffy,” said Mara. “She holds one of the keys to defeating Dagon.”

“Are you daft or simply not listening?” growled Azura. “I’ve no doubt she will once again be a potent Slayer of vampires and daedric minions, but she has no hope against a Daedra Lord!”

“On that you are quite right,” answered Mara. “To banish Dagon will require Akatosh himself to transform into his dragon avatar.”

“The Dragon God?” mused Azura. “Yes, I suppose the might of his winged form could perhaps defeat Dagon. As it seems like you Divines have the matter well in hand, I fail to see how this involves me or my Slayer.”

“Akatosh is unable to change into his dragon form, thanks to my stupid curse,” confessed Kynareth rather sheepishly. Azura’s peevishly lifted eyebrow prompted the Divine to continue, “Do you recall the great dragon war?”

“Of course,” replied Azura.

“I was known as Kyne at the time and, in order to help the Nords battle Alduin and his ilk, we Divines allowed them to learn some of the very voice magic that dragons used against them. When that alone proved insufficient, I created the Order of the Ice Dragons - powerful and noble creatures, ridden by paladins of indomitable spirit and determination. Alas, Alduin and his corrupted dragons – many ridden by dragon priests - vastly outnumbered my valiant defenders. The last to fall was Phantom and her rider, Sir Acadian. It was brother Akatosh who, with help from the Nords, an Elder Scroll and folding time upon itself, was finally able to at least temporarily banish Alduin.”

“You mentioned a curse,” reminded Azura as her long crimson fingernails drummed silently against the tabletop of cloud. “I don’t have all day, you know.”

“Yes, as you keep reminding us,” continued Kynareth. “Without the malevolent leadership of Alduin, the remaining dragons dispersed to their more reclusive ways. Many were hunted down and killed by the Nords. Not comfortable with the temporary nature of Alduin's banishment, I eventually lent some permanence to the arrangement by cursing dragons such that they could never again appear in Tamriel. I exempted only my magnificent ice dragons, and the curse cannot be lifted unless one of them somehow takes to the sky once more. Since they all perished, I believed the curse would effectively be unbreakable. At the time, I did not realize my actions precluded even Akatosh from assuming his dragon form. A Divine curse is a double edged sword; once initiated, it cannot be changed or undone - not even by the Divine who created it. Though Phantom’s presently only a spirit, she is the only hope of breaking my curse that we have.”

“I am well-familiar with this Phantom and Acadian you speak of,” replied Azura. “Through magicks beyond my ken, they have existed within Buffy, even before she was born.”

“We know,” replied the two Divines, their voices echoing in unison.

“As I told you,” said Azura, “I was ill-equipped to assume the role of godmother that I promised Buffy’s mother. I learned, in many cases, by making mistakes. When I forced the role of Slayer onto her small shoulders for her own good, I was surprised when she did not embrace it. I realize now that by not giving her a choice, her rebellious reaction was completely predictable. Much of what else I have managed to learn has come from carefully observing the example of those who care most about her and have helped her grow. Their names include Daenlin, Kud-Ei, Boderi Farano. . . most influential of all, however, has been the paladin who travels within her. From each of them I have learned that young ones entrusted to us should be nurtured but not overly controlled. For it seems the mistakes I would want to shield her from are the very experiences from which she has learned the most. I have had to develop the counterintuitive ability of restraining my inclination to intervene.”

“It seems you have learned the love of a mother for her child,” offered the Goddess of Love.

“Perhaps I understand it better than you, cousin.” The rising sun behind Azura now framed her in a golden aura. She leaned back slightly as if basking in its glow and closed her eyes. After a few moments, she reopened them. “I must soon return to Moonshadow until dusk. If I were to help, what would you have me do?”

Kynareth replied, “We need your skill at. . . directly influencing the affairs of mortals. If Phantom could once again materialize into a dragon and fly – even briefly – that would break the curse. We believe her spirit still contains quite a bit of draconic magic. No doubt it will be complicated. Acadian is the key, for both Phantom and Buffy will readily respond to him up to the full range of their ability. The paladin, however, will be loathe to allow the unpredictable risks and consequences to both his elf and dragon that such a transformation might entail.”

“Acadian places the needs of his elf above all else,” declared Azura. “For exactly that reason it is Buffy who is the key, not her paladin.” She gazed at the Divines for a moment, her face inscrutable. “I expect I can arrange something.” As Azura rose from the chair, she bid, “Farewell, cousins.” Her words still hung in the air as the two Divines found themselves, once again, staring at a butterfly. On pale wings, the Mistress of Moonshadow fluttered east until disappearing into the morning sun.

“You know, sister,” remarked Mara soberly, “if Azura is successful in helping to break your curse, it will only be a matter of time before Alduin reappears.”

“Let us deal with one crisis at a time,” replied Kynareth.

~ End of Prelude ~
ghastley
QUOTE(Acadian @ Jul 1 2016, 10:02 AM) *

To gain such agreement is akin to herding cats and has not occurred since we long ago agreed to split Sheogorath into his two disparate halves so they could annoy one another instead of the rest of us.”

And this from the only one possibly capable of it! Herding cats, I mean. She does have more influence over Tamriel's feline race than any other.

I like the implication that all this leads directly to TES V's events. That's way more story than Bethesda managed.
SubRosa
How right that it would be Mother Mara who knows the names of every living being on Nirn. While to Kynareth they are simply "those green ones". smile.gif

“I don’t have all day, you know.”
This was a nice admission to the Goddess of Twilight's very real time constraints!

Kynareth's dragon curse was a stroke of genius! Not only does it help explain away some of Bethesda's history, but it also presents us with an immediate concern to focus the story upon. The unforseen consequences of it reminds me of Maleficent, and how even she could not lift her own curse.

How delightful to see that Azura has learned the wisdom of parenthood. That one has to let ones children make mistakes, because that is the only way they can learn not to make those mistakes! I have always found her to be the most interesting of all the Deadric Princes(s), because she is the only one who wants to be loved by her followers.

And a lovely - and ominous - ending note. Only a matter of time indeed...
Lopov
Great prelude, Acadian, I enjoyed reading about the meeting of the Divines and how they play an important role in the life of the little Wood Elf. Mara made Azura an "offer" she couldn't refuse after hearing out two main reasons why their cooperation is necessary.

I plan to read the next chapter later on.
hazmick
Sounds like the divines have a plan. All they need now is for Buffy to swoop in and save the day so they can all be home by bedtime. Easy peasy. biggrin.gif
mALX



FINALLY!!!! The story of Phantom and Acadian !!!!!


KABOOOOOOOM !!!!!!!!!!!!!!


*mALX's head explodes*



I was just about to ask if this was TES Lore or Buffy Lore when you popped out with Phantom and Sir Acadian, laugh.gif


I have been dying to know how Buffy ended up being so important to the other realms where gods and Daedric Lords preside! How she became God-Daughter to gods; etc. This is AWESOME !!!


Oh, Holy Cow! Kyne cursed Akatosh! This is great stuff!


QUOTE

“It seems you have learned the love of a mother for her child,”


D'Awwwwwww!!!!!


Ooh, ominous foreshadowing in the last two paragraphs!


Awesome !!!!





QUOTE(ghastley @ Jul 1 2016, 11:00 AM) *

QUOTE(Acadian @ Jul 1 2016, 10:02 AM) *

To gain such agreement is akin to herding cats and has not occurred since we long ago agreed to split Sheogorath into his two disparate halves so they could annoy one another instead of the rest of us.”

And this from the only one possibly capable of it! Herding cats, I mean. She does have more influence over Tamriel's feline race than any other.

I like the implication that all this leads directly to TES V's events. That's way more story than Bethesda managed.



Agree with everything you said here!




Lopov
Great backstory as we learn why Buffy's role is more than important in the coming storm. The three divines in the prelude are portrayed in a more interesting way than in some official TES books. Seems that events in Oblivion and Skyrim will be inevitably intertwined.
Darkness Eternal
I recall Buffy had some time with Mazoga didn't she? Fun moments! The green pair will be quite a formidable force. Orcs are not to be trifled with, especially if one is a knight and the other a grand champion of the arena.

Godmother Azura . . . don't know if this is a blessing for Buffy or something else.

How great to her Alduin and the dragons- Ice Dragons certainly sound awesome. Akatosh having relations to the Dragon War and Skyrim's storyline is just great . . . and Buffy will be a part of it as far as I know. This is all just connected in such a way that Buffy has a touch of destiny upon her. Azura knows Buffy is formidable against monsters and Daedric creatures, but to face a Daedric Lord is precarious indeed.



Acadian
In Episode 2, which concluded our Prelude, we learned that the Divines’ plan for dealing with Mehrunes Dagon involves Akatosh assuming his dragon avatar. The wyvern in the ointment here is an ancient curse levied by Kyne back in the Merethic Era after the Dragon War that prevents the appearance of all dragons - save her beloved ice dragons. It seems the only way the curse can be broken is if one of these creatures somehow once again takes to the sky. Trouble is, the only known remaining ice dragon is the spirit of Phantom who travels bound to Acadian within Buffy. The Divines have asked Azura to use her considerable skill at influencing the affairs of mortals to help break the curse.

ghastley- Thank you for your insight and kind words. I confess I did wrestle long and hard trying to blend Skyrim’s ancient Dragon War, Oblivion’s pending crisis, and Skyrim’s future return of the dragons in a way that made sense for Buffy’s story. Dragons were a big challenge - since Phantom was part of Acadian and Buffy long before TES V was even announced.

SubRosa- Thanks for picking up on the personality quirks I tried to display among the three immortals. Gosh, I’m so pleased you liked the idea of Kyne’s dragon curse and how it relates to both Oblivion and Skyrim! I’ll unabashedly confess that I attribute much of how we see Azura to Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maleficent in the movie of the same name – so I’m tickled as can be that you mentioned her! One of the significant decisions we wrestled with during our long sabbatical was the roles of the three immortals who appeared in the prelude. As you can see, it is Azura who emerged as a mother figure and Buffy's patron - even though Buffy doesn't yet know it.

Lopov- Thank you! I’m glad we were able to give the three immortals some personality while foreshadowing some of the bigger events to follow.

hazmick- Thanks! So all Azura has to do is arrange for an ice dragon to fly. Well, if anyone can manipulate things to make that happen, I suppose it is she. tongue.gif

mALX- It’s been a long time since we’ve touched on the history of Acadian and Phantom. Much of that time was spent figuring how to fit them into all the new lore that came with Skyrim in a way that made some sense. And now we know that Azura has been Buffy’s secret godmother for all her life. Poor Buffy will continue through all of Books 2 and 3 before learning the secret that we now know. Thank you!

DE- Thanks! Yes, Buffy and Mazoga are Errant Knight Sisters of the White Stallion. The Gray Prince gave up his Arena gig to become a White Stallion and the mate of Mazoga. The two orcs showed up to help Buffy and Savlian free Kvatch - where it became clear they were the champions that Martin Septim had seen in his dreams. Last time Buffy saw them, they (and Baurus the Blade) were escorting Martin from Kvatch to some secret safe place. Though Buffy will never be the champion or hero of anything, there is no denying her subtle aura of destiny that you mentioned.


~ Part 1 - Dragons Live Forever ~

* * *

Episode 3

No sooner had I finished singing than my audience of torchbugs began to disperse.

“Buffy, that was beautiful,” remarked Acadian.

“Thank you, my paladin. For everything.”

“Your images came through perfectly, as if we were there again, astride Superian and racing alongside that herd of wild horses south of the Imperial City when you were still a student at the University." After a moment he added, "While my ability to transmit such vivid memories is only via telepathic mind link, I suppose it shouldn’t surprise me that you have developed a similar talent via your singing voice.”

"Daenlin always told me that I have my mother’s singing voice," I mused. "The ability to share what's in my heart via song seems to be a combination of Acadian telepathy and illusory magicks."

Countless stars sparkled their homage to the twin fullness of Masser and Secunda that hung above the Valenwood sky. After loosening a vine around my waist, the simple tunic fashioned from a single giant leaf I wore fell into the grass and reeds at water's edge. The leather strip restraining my ponytail followed. I then slipped into the meadow's pond. A small number of playful fish investigated while I luxuriated in a cleansing swim. It had been several months now since the terrible day that freed Kvatch but cost the life of my Savlian. The patient support of Acadian, unconditional love of Superian, and verdant greenery that teemed with life, had all helped me grow beyond self-pity.

Or so I told myself.

As I surfaced, slicked back my hair and glanced around, I smiled to see that Superian had waded out to join me. She paused where the water touched her chest for a long drink.

The mare’s head lifted sharply - water trailing from her mouth - at the sound of a wolf’s call. It was close enough that I decided to cut our bath short. I mounted Superian in the water and, as she carried me ashore, another lupine howl pierced the air. Then another. They were getting closer. While I had been distracted by the soothing waters and beautiful night, it seemed a large pack of the predators had surrounded the small meadow. Much too nervous to dismount and recover my tunic or Superian’s tack, I simply grabbed my mage satchel off the tree limb from which it hung and slipped its shoulder strap over my head and one arm. We continued cautiously closer to the middle of the meadow.

I could now hear growls and see numerous pairs of golden eyes glowing back at me from the jungle that surrounded the pond and clearing on three sides. On the fourth side, however, forest with less ground cover and greater distance between trees beckoned. I turned Superian in that direction and we were off.

My mare was fast but, given her size and the need to avoid trees, the predators were able to keep up.

Although we could not outrun the wolves in this forest, I knew Superian could maintain her speed long after our hungry pursuers became exhausted. And even better, the trees were becoming smaller and fewer.

We had just begun to slightly open the distance when we fully emerged from the forest. Superian quickly accelerated to the full glory of astonishing speed she was capable of.

My hopes for our escape were suddenly dashed as the ground ahead became a black void in the moonlight. We were racing toward the edge of a cliff!

I could now hear the sound of crashing water far below. Superian’s speed almost certainly precluded stopping in time. As the other side of the gorge came into view, I feared the distance to safety was too great, even for my speedy mare. Superian made our choice as she powerfully launched us in attempt to leap the chasm.

We were halfway across when it became sickeningly clear that the brave mare’s attempt was futile. The distance was simply beyond the ability of any horse. With my heart in my throat and Superian’s momentum slowing, I glanced down at the angry white water battling large rocks far below.

I cried out, “Acadian, help us!” but had no idea what - if anything - my paladin could do at this point.

“Vensahliz.” Acadian’s urgently spoken word was unfamiliar to my long ears.

“TIID KLO UL!” The booming response literally thundered across the night sky in a powerfully deep but undeniably female voice. A goddess?

Suddenly, everything came nearly to a standstill. Superian’s mane no longer whipped my face; each white hair moved at a barely perceptible rate. Water droplets from the wet mare hung in the air, almost motionless as they glistened in the moonlight. The raging river far below seemed frozen in time. “Buffy, we only have a few seconds. Cling tightly to your mare – no matter what.” Acadian’s next words were not addressed to me. “Thank you, Vensahliz, for pausing time. I must call upon your aerial skill once more. I know there will be consequences, but I ask, old friend, that you do what you must to help us.”

At that point, everything careened back into full speed. As our downward momentum quickly overtook any lingering forward progress, I felt intense pain - as if a powerful spirit was being ripped from within me. The mare’s white mane transformed into a pair of long spikes – or horns perhaps - and her black coat was replaced by pale gray scales. I turned my head sharply at a strange sound behind me to see giant whitish wings unfurling. It was only then I realized that instead of my arms and legs being wrapped around the neck and bare back of my mare, I was clinging to the upper neck of a massive dragon that could only be Phantom - the long-dead mount of Acadian!

The pain had stopped, but certainly not my fear as the river below raced up at us.

Phantom’s wings flapped once and our descent slowed. Her long tail swung out to one side as those mighty wings attacked the air once again. Although her wingtips now spanned nearly the entire width of the canyon, her maneuver had brought us into alignment with the river so we had air instead of cliff wall ahead of us. The hungry rocks jutting up from the river like teeth were getting much closer, however, and white water now churned with a terrifying roar.

The dragon’s wings powerfully bit into the air again and, for the first time, I felt more like we were flying than falling. Another flap. I held my breath.

The spray of deafening white water filled my face, but we were skimming above it!

Phantom lifted her horned head slightly and, as her long-unused wings settled into a steady rhythm, we finally began to climb.

“Buffy, she is weak and will need to land soon,” warned Acadian.

Sure enough, at the first open area alongside the river, Phantom flared her wings and landed rather ungracefully. She lowered her head, allowing me to slip to the ground. I marveled as I stepped back to admire the massive creature.

The dragon's coloring ranged from gray to translucent blue to white. Her horned head alone was as large as Superian; its weight, along with that of her neck and chest, was awkwardly held off the ground by clawed hinge-joints midway along the leading edge of both partially folded wings. Two powerful legs, that supported the mass of her haunches, ended in feet tipped with talons as long as my arms. Counterbalancing her long neck, Phantom's tail trailed out for several horse lengths behind her on the ground before ending in the shape of an arrowhead. Her eyes were the color of mine, but glowed as if her body could not restrain the magic within. I managed to say, “Y-you are terrifyingly beautiful. Thank you for saving my life.”

Suddenly I recovered from being awestruck and demanded, “Acadian! Where is Superian?”
ghastley
Other people just write cliff-hangers, but Acadian leaps us off them! ohmy.gif

I like the way the "Slow Time" shout was used here. It affects all but the shouter, and so gives Phantom time to get in position for the rescue. Consistency with the game always makes these things work better.

But now I have the same question as Buffy.
Darkness Eternal
What I liked about this chapter is Superian. Her trusty mare has been with her as long as I remember, and was, is and will be a tremendous help to her. Namely, when taking her through the Valewood forest teeming with hungry wolves and other beasties. They make it past the forest and the company of trees to a sparser ground only to reach the edge of the cliff- and over! I won't lie. I was glued to the screen seeing what would become of Buffy and her horse, and was surprised at the use of the Voice and the beautiful dragon that came to Buffy's aid. But I find myself asking the same question as Buffy and Ghastly . . .

Where's Superian?
mALX

OMG!!!! OMG !!!! Gobble ... Gobble ... OMG !!!!!!!!!!!!! This was the absolute best chapter of Buffy fiction EVAH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HOLY COW !!!!!!!!! Gobble ... Gobble ... OMG !!!!!!!!!!!!!

This was amazing!!!!!!! I'm in awe!


WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



ghastley
QUOTE(mALX @ Jul 8 2016, 05:47 PM) *

OMG!!!! OMG !!!! Gobble ... Gobble ... OMG !!!!!!!!!!!!! This was the absolute best chapter of Buffy fiction EVAH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HOLY COW !!!!!!!!! Gobble ... Gobble ... OMG !!!!!!!!!!!!!

This was amazing!!!!!!! I'm in awe!


WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Perhaps a more... tempered reaction... might be called for?" - Falk Firebeard. biggrin.gif
mALX
QUOTE(ghastley @ Jul 8 2016, 05:59 PM) *

QUOTE(mALX @ Jul 8 2016, 05:47 PM) *

OMG!!!! OMG !!!! Gobble ... Gobble ... OMG !!!!!!!!!!!!! This was the absolute best chapter of Buffy fiction EVAH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HOLY COW !!!!!!!!! Gobble ... Gobble ... OMG !!!!!!!!!!!!!

This was amazing!!!!!!! I'm in awe!


WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Perhaps a more... tempered reaction... might be called for?" - Falk Firebeard. biggrin.gif



rollinglaugh.gif



hazmick
Well I certainly wasn't expecting that! Absolutely marvelous, but I too am worried about Superian. ohmy.gif
Lopov
Awesome and very tense. The scene as she's in the air above the raging water below, suddenly on Phantom instead of on Superian, is written in a really beautiful and picturesquely way. Just like everyone else, I wonder what happened to her mare?
SubRosa
I remember those wild horses south of the Imperial City.

Buffy wearing a leaf! What wonderfully appropriate Valen-Elf apparel.

Uh oh, wolves. It was very thoughtful of Buffy to escape and simply avoid a confrontation, rather than put herself in the position of being forced to kill the wolves.

“TIID KLO UL!”
I don't know the specific words, I can easily recognize the dragon speech here.

Phantom flies again! That was a very thrilling escapade! But where is Superian?
Renee
Sorry I've not been keeping up, but it's good to catch up finally. I love the way the aedra & daedra are influencing things behind the scenes!

And then that poor Buffy. All she wants to do is take a bath, and look what happens! laugh.gif Wow, so she actually flew on a dragon, all because Kynareth allowed these sort of dragons to exist in the first place. That's so lovely.
Acadian
In Episode 3, Buffy and Superian were startled by a large pack of wolves and fled into the night. Attempting to leap a river gorge that was far too wide, they found themselves out of airspeed and ideas. Acadian urgently asked his ancient and long dead dragon mount for help. Phantom did not disappoint as she forced her spirit from within Acadian into Superian. She then used the mare's body to transform herself into an ice dragon and flew Buffy to safety. Once on the ground and the shock began to wear off, Buffy demanded to know what happened to her precious mare.

ghastley- The last episode was a ‘jump off the cliffer’! I enjoyed introducing Phantom with a roar – er, shout. Thank you.

DE- Thank you for noting how important Superian has always been to Buffy. Their bond of mutual dependence will grow even stronger moving forward, introducing new benefits and challenges.

mALX- By Azura, thank you, my friend! Kind words indeed. I’m so glad you enjoyed it.

hazmick- Thanks! Not to worry – Superian is in there. . . somewhere.

Lopov- Aww, thank you. That scene where time stopped and horse transformed to dragon in the air was an emotionally important one for me to depict as you say, picturesquely. I so appreciate your supportive words.

SubRosa- Bark biters, tree huggers and now, leaf wearers! I’m glad you recognized the dragon speech. Though Phantom may shout again someday, it won’t be in this book. That said, I could think of no better way to introduce her physical presence.

Renee- Thanks for joining us! Aedra, Daedra, wolves, dragons – yes, all the poor little elf wanted was a bath. tongue.gif

* * *

Episode 4

“Phantom and I have sacrificed our bond,” explained Acadian soberly while I stared at the imposing ice dragon before me. “This allowed her spirit to join - rather forcefully - with Superian. Dragon and mare are now bound as one. Just as she and I once were. Just as you and I have always been.”

“I’m sorry that you and Phantom were forced to take such drastic measures. I-I wasn’t paying enough attention to our surroundings. Perhaps if I had tried to hold our ground back at that meadow with my spells instead of fleeing in panic. . . .”

“Don’t second guess yourself,” admonished Acadian gently. “You made the right choice to use Superian’s speed and escape. You were surrounded by nearly a score of wolves. What brought such an unusually large pack to our location I have no idea, but before you could have cast your fear spell in the several directions required to affect them all, I’m sure some would have been upon you.”

The paladin was right but that did little to ease my apprehension about exactly what ‘dragon and mare are now bound as one’ meant. Slowly, I approached the beautiful winged creature. “Superian?” The massive head lowered, turning sideways so I was looking directly into one of the dragon’s glowing eyes. I placed my hands on the cool scales of her muzzle and looked deeply into that eye. After a moment, I smiled. “Yes, my precious mare, you are in there with Phantom.”

“She has little time left in this form,” said Acadian.

“What do you mean?” I replied. “Will she turn back into Superian? Can Phantom do this again? Do I have a flying mare now? Are we -”

“As you know,” the paladin interrupted, “Phantom and I died long ago. Her spirit is but a shadow of her former self - and this transformation has drained her mightily. I don’t know if she will ever be able to accomplish this feat again. I do know that her ability to sustain the physical presence of a dragon will soon fade and she will doubtless try to turn back into Superian.”

“What do you mean, ‘try’?” I said with growing concern.

“Phantom did what she needed in order to save us but. . . I confess I am unsure of the consequences.”

I suddenly noticed the moons and stars had faded. A growing glow on the horizon heralded the beginning of a new day. The day after I almost died. The first day of a new life shared by Phantom and Superian.

As the sun peeked over the eastern treetops, the ancient dragon that had saved Superian and I from certain death touched me gently with her nose, then lifted her head and moved back a step or two. Her ponderous movement over the ground reinforced that the sky was her natural domain.

She opened a maw filled with imposingly dagger-like teeth and spoke. “Lokkendovsonaak?” I instantly recognized her deeply powerful and husky voice that now filled the air around us. It was the same one that had commanded time itself to nearly a standstill.

“She understands us perfectly, but speaks only in dragon tongue,” explained Acadian. “The word she spoke means sky-warrior-priest and refers to me.” Acadian raised his voice slightly to address Phantom, ”Yes, old friend?”

“Nid krosis. Dahmaan Vensahliz.”

“No sorrows,” translated my paladin. “Remember Phantom.” He then added, “Dragon names generally have three parts. Vensahliz is her name and it means wind-phantom-ice.” He then replied to her, “Agreed. We have seen each other through many battles and will share many more. Elf, paladin, horse and dragon will remain together.”

Phantom’s eyes slowly blinked and she tilted her head. A deep but gentle rumble escaped through her teeth in a small cloud of cold mist. A sigh, I decided . . . of relief? It was then I fully realized that the actions she took to save us were motivated by selfless devotion to Acadian without regard to consequences. She was likely now as concerned - even frightened - about the unknown ramifications as Acadian and I were. I was glad my paladin’s words had helped sooth her – just as he always seemed to know how to reassure me when I needed it. The ice dragon then looked down at me. “Malkroronin. Nid krosis.”

“Little-sorcerer-archer. No sorrows,” Acadian said. “That must be her name for you, followed by the same admonishment she gave me.”

I nodded, hoping she would continue.

She did. “Dovah gro key nahlaas mahfaeraak.”

“Dragon bound horse alive forever,” translated Acadian.

“Does that mean what I think it does?” I asked.

“Phantom seems to think so,” replied Acadian. “The potential lifespan of a dragon is long enough that some would indeed say it defies time.”

Phantom slowly nodded. Her whole body then began to glow until her brightness rivaled the rising sun. As the light gradually began to dissipate, I could see her shape changing, decreasing in size, wings evaporating. My relief was boundless when the indistinct shape began to resemble a horse.

When her glow had faded away, I stared in disbelief. “Superian. . . y-you’ve changed.”

The horse that stood before me now looked dramatically different than the Superian I knew and loved. From a rather tall sixteen hands at the withers and trim weight of eleven times my own, she now stood at what I estimated to be a towering eighteen hands and a heavily built twenty times my weight. Her hoofs – the size of dinner plates - were heavily feathered in white fur. The mare’s mane and tail were the color of my own ash blond hair. The upper portion of her formerly black coat was now a palomino-chestnut hue. Her face, throat, chest, underbelly and legs were cream colored.

I slowly approached. The mighty mare lowered her head. Eyes that overflowed with the blue glow of draconic magic looked into mine. She nuzzled me and I hugged her as joyful relief flowed between us. “Yes, you are Superian, and you now carry Phantom within you. Thank you, mighty dragon, for saving and returning my precious mare to me.”

“I might have anticipated her physical changes,” said Acadian somewhat sheepishly, “were they not forced upon us with such unexpected urgency.”

“I will not protest, my paladin. What you and Phantom did – what you sacrificed – you both did out of love for me. If you doubt your decision for one second, just imagine how Superian would look now had you not intervened.” I shivered slightly. “Our broken bodies would have been tossed among the river’s sharp rocks until they settled on the bank somewhere to become food for the mud crabs. Besides, how could you have forecast these changes?”

“Well,” Acadian began, “I expect her size is influenced by the fact that Phantom was created in Skyrim. Her frame of reference is from a land where horses are larger than those found in the southern provinces. Dragons are unfamiliar with hair or fur so I’m guessing she took inspiration for Superian’s coat from you – a blonde often covered in buckskins.” After a moment he added, “Overall, I’d say she did well. There are no horns, scales, wings or talons on your mare. The only visible evidence that Superian carries the spirit of Phantom is her eyes - and I’d wager we’ll not encounter anyone who has ever gazed into the glowing blue eyes of an ice dragon.”

“I’m quite sure I will grow to love her new look,” I said. “In fact it is with great relief that I realize her lifespan now is much closer to my own. The thought of losing her to age in the blink of a couple decades has always terrified me.”

I conjured the mare’s grooming equipment and heaved a sigh. “Your coat is a mess, and just look at the tangles in your mane and tail!”

To my delight, a pale green butterfly joined us – the kind I had often seen around sunrise or sunset as far back as I could remember. The small creature slowly fluttered all around Superian and I with what appeared to be great interest as I went to work on the mare. I giggled. “Are you here to help or simply supervise this morning?”

“While the care you take of our dragon-mare is admirable,” commented Acadian, “have you forgotten that your magic satchel with its shoulder strap is the only thing you are wearing?”

I frowned. “Are you afraid our butterfly friend here will fly off to tell its friends about the naked elf grooming a horse?” I did, however, pause long enough to pull out a tattered set of buckskins from my mage satchel. As I donned the tunic, I couldn’t help but notice it did indeed match Superian’s primary color. My hands then returned to the mare. “You know, Acadian, I think I may have peed myself about the time she transformed into a dragon.”

“I’m sure she didn’t mind, Buffy. Besides, I expect our skim through the rapids washed everyone quite thoroughly.”

“So,” I mused, “are you going to tell me how Phantom brought time itself almost to a standstill with her voice?”

“Perhaps. But not today.”

*

From Buffy’s Scrapbook
ghastley
Hmmm....

This looks like a jump out of Cyrodiil and into Skyrim. Is the "pale green butterfly" a Luna Moth?

/wonders if Superian is "the Dragonborn"?

Edit: So then I opened the screenshot and got one of the answers...
hazmick
Ah, that's a relief. So now we have a dragon in the group. Or rather, the dragon that was in the group is still in the group, but is with the horse instead of the paladin. wacko.gif At any rate, it was really cool to hear some dragon speak from Dovahorse, and I hope the stain washes off biggrin.gif

That screenie is great. I love Superian's colouring there.
SubRosa
What brought such an unusually large pack to our location I have no idea,
I have an idea, and I suspect that twilight, moons, and stars are associated with it. whistling.gif Not to mention pale green butterflies...

Superian is now the Dovahmare! Her new look is fantastic, especially her glowing Draugr Dragon-blue eyes. As the picture illustrates, so much like her blond buskined little archer sorcerer.
mALX

This story of Phantom is some of the best writing you have ever done! This explains so much that I wondered about the connections between them! And now the hint that Buffy is also immortal; I hope you will explain that too in this story! Somehow in story form it is all so much clearer!

Buffy conjuring grooming equipment had me rolling! This was an amazing, AWESOME Write !!!!


Darkness Eternal
Woah.

Dragon and Mare bonding? So essentially Superian is now Super-Dovah? This is simply fantastic. Makes a beautiful, loyal and formidable creature into something greately beautiful, loyal and formidable. I like her eyes. So mystic.

The fact that Superian talks makes it great. Thankfully for Buffy Acadian is there to translate.

Also, Sub mentioned something. It may certain implications to a certain Daedric godmother? No? Am I on the right track here?

This is great. New paths unfold for Buffy as she learns old mysteries. I can say we are learning along with her, too.

goodjob.gif
Lopov
Lots of things to comment on - first of all, I enjoyed a conversation between Buffy and Acadian, especially as she has lots of questions but Acadian kindly interrupts her. Written in such a way that I could not only picture them, but almost hear them.

Secondly, the transformation back to Superian is written just as well as the transformation to Phantom - I like that Superian now has some draconic effects, if that's the correct way of saying it.

Thirdly, I learned a few new English words from this episode.

And last - I have a new background picture on my laptop, straight from Buffy's scrapbook. My fiancee loves it too, especially the butterfly, she said the picture is so soothing.
Acadian
In Episode 4, Buffy learned more about how Phantom had forcefully joined with Superian in order to save both elf and mare. As the weakened dragon’s spirit became unable to sustain her winged physical presence, the form of her new host reemerged. Though the horse was now much larger and colored differently than the Superian that Buffy was used to, the little elf was simply overjoyed to have her precious mare back. As the sun rose, the pale twilight butterfly form of Azura visited to survey the results of what she had arranged.

ghastley- Thank you! The influence of Phantom’s spirit on Superian will be subtle and we’ll gradually reveal aspects of it as we progress. Phantom’s role in the Oblivion crisis is complete. By managing to fly, she has broken Kyne’s curse, allowing Akatosh to assume his dragon form when the time comes. And, yes, in a couple centuries Alduin will figure out that he can return to the skies as well. Just as Buffy will not be the Champion of Cyrodiil, neither she nor her dragon-mare will be the Dragonborn. tongue.gif

hazmick- You got it! Buffy and Acadian have traveled together in various forms through many lives that span across numerous times and worlds. During the life preceding their current one, Acadian was a dragon rider in Skyrim during the Merethic Era. When they all died during the dragon war, Phantom’s spirit somehow managed to travel with them into their current life in the late Third Era. To save Buffy and her mare when they leaped over that cliff, Phantom tore her own spirit free from Acadian (inside Buffy) and bound it to Superian. One implication is that when Buffy and Acadian’s current life ends, Superian might be able to make the leap with them to the next. Maybe.

SubRosa- Thank you for pointing out the influence of Azura in both the unusual wolf attack and how they ‘herded’ Buffy and Superian over that cliff. I love the ‘heavy’ look of the Skyhorses and have always wanted to transition Superian to more of an ‘Epona’ look.

mALX- Thanks! Interesting question as to whether Buffy is immortal or simply referring to her long elven lifespan. She can die, but reincarnates – she and Acadian have done so for millennia. She has no memories of past lives though - but Acadian does. Conjuring grooming equipment – Buffy loves her ‘utility’ magicks. biggrin.gif

DE- Thank you. Yes, it was Azura who ‘engineered’ the wolf attack that herded Buffy and Superian over that cliff. Phantom’s full transformation into a dragon was an anomaly – fueled by extremis and almost certainly a bit of Azuran magic. Acadian is right that Phantom will unlikely be able to repeat that feat. Nor will she be able to give speech to Superian. We’ll gradually see the subtle but helpful abilities that Phantom’s spirit now brings to Superian but I need to shut up and not get ahead of the story. . . .

Lopov- I do like the word draconic – meaning dragon-like. Thank you for the kind words regarding our dialogue and Superian’s transformations. I’m both flattered and humbled that Buffy’s screenie graces the screen of your laptop!

* * *

~ Part 2 – On the Wings of a Dove ~

Episode 5

There was a sudden fluttering sound above and behind me. I struggled to control Superian as she reared in surprise, grateful for the crude bridle and saddle I had managed to craft from vines and pelts respectively. As I settled her, a white dove swooped down upon us.

My alarm eased as the bird perched comfortably on my shoulder and cooed softly. “Why, hello there,” I said. “You gave my mare and I quite the start.” She calmly looked at me as I slowly lifted my hand. “You look like a courier dove from the Arcane University, but what are you doing all the way down in Valenwood?” As I touched the bird, she transformed into a scroll.

I quickly looked around the meadow, listening carefully for dangers in the surrounding forest and assessing routes of escape should Superian and I be attacked. Satisfied, I unrolled the parchment and instantly recognized the elegant quill strokes of my University Advisor, Boderi Farano.

Buffy,

I hope this messenger was able to hone in on your magical essence based upon the required sample you gave us back when you were a student here. And I hope she has found you well.

I read with great interest, pride and sadness Guildmagister Sigrid Firewalker’s after action report detailing the closure of Kvatch’s Oblivion Gate and subsequent recapture of the city. Firstly, my deepest sympathies over the death of your Captain Matius. It may be of some consolation to know that he is being hailed as the Hero of Kvatch. I understand your need to grieve privately and can think of no better place for you to do so than your ancestral homeland.

For what it’s worth, Sigrid spoke glowingly of your courage and skill under fire. I am thankful that your badly broken left arm was healing well as you left Kvatch, and that the healers expected you to fully recover soon.

I know your magicks will help protect you, but was alarmed to learn that your powerful bow was broken beyond repair during the same battle that took your mate. I shared my concern with Guildmagister Kud-Ei in Bravil who consulted your archery master there. Daenlin had apparently been working on a special bow and quiver for you since even before the Tournament of Archers. He provided the results of his craftsmanship, along with a set of notes detailing your archery talents, limitations and requirements.

The Praxographical Center, in consult with the Chironasium and guided by Master Daenlin’s notes, enchanted both bow and quiver. They further rendered the results into a conjuration spell that you will find emblazoned into the rune at the bottom of this scroll.

I know that your body and heart can be as fragile as a butterfly, but I also know that the spirit within you rivals that of a dragon. May the Nine speed your pilgrimage to find what you seek, and bring you safely back to us.

I remain your advisor, instructor, mentor and friend,

Boderi Farano


I wiped a tear from my cheek, then passed a hand over the runic symbol at the bottom of the scroll. It glowed briefly as I absorbed its arcane knowledge. The scroll was then engulfed in a swirl of magic, from which the white dove reemerged and promptly winged away. The ability that had flowed into me seemed. . . different than what I had expected. Boderi said the spell would conjure a bow, but the magic felt much more like that which summons a creature. A living bow?

Slipping to the ground, I filled my left hand with the new spell. Opening my fist to release its magic, I felt the grip of a bow materializing against my palm and instinctively closed my fingers around it. Simultaneously, the welcome familiarity of a quiver settled against my back.

The large elven weapon in my hand was fashioned from a relatively open-grained wood that was unknown to me. Its ears and the area above and below the leather-wrapped handgrip had been reinforced by beautifully molded and engraved sections of chitin. I could feel the weapon pulsing slightly as if eager for use. Subtle hints of pale bluish magic slowly traveled along its length. The staff was long, thick and gracefully recurved - features indicative of great power. While I craved the high damage and long range of such bows, I questioned my ability to manage the heavy draw likely required. Then I recalled that the specifications for the weapon had been guided by none other than Daenlin.

I smiled and slipped an arrow from the quiver. The four-bladed rather slender tip was beautifully crafted from what appeared to be no less than forge-hardened mithril steel. I assessed the arrowhead as likely a very effective compromise between penetration and stopping power. The wooden shaft was long and flawlessly straight. I noted that the three rows of exquisite feather fletching were not only perfectly uniform, but had been mounted with a slight twist – a feature that would cause the arrow to spin in flight, improving both range and accuracy.

Nocking the missile, I addressed the silk bowstring. When I began to pull, I felt the bow willingly respond. I now understood. This bow was indeed alive – and attuned to my needs. With very little effort from me, the staff relaxed its recurve, bending its limbs toward me until my hand rested against my ear and the arrow’s fletching kissed my cheek. Normally, I could hold that position but for a moment so I was astonished that, with the bow’s assistance, I was able to maintain full draw long enough to leisurely aim! Such a feat, particularly with a large bow, was normally possible for only the strongest of Orsimeri archers.

I aimed out about a dozen horse lengths to a dead branch the size of my thigh and loosed. Surprised at the bow’s quietness upon release, I realized that it had controlled its recovery to reduce characteristic ‘bow twang’ to a soft hiss. The arrow flew true to its target, shattering the section of branch that it hit.

I fired again. The resulting shot split a rock the size of my head.

“Well stuff me gently," I said quietly as I lowered the weapon and stared at it in awe. "I’d wager your magic includes the ability to pierce armor. Powerful, accurate and quiet - a true sniper weapon. Like your predecessor, I shall call you Slayer.”

Having a bow in my hand again – especially this elegantly magical one – flooded me with confidence. Deep in the dangerous forests, meadows and jungles of Valenwood, I began to feel a bit more like predator than prey. “Thank you, Master Daenlin. You know your apprentice well.”

As I shouldered the weapon, I realized one of its other features. Rather than being summoned for a fixed time, I could feel a small drain on my magicka – less than my regeneration rate - that sustained the bow as long as I allowed the arcane energy to flow. With the weapon on my back, I tried to bring a spell to one of my hands. Nothing. It seemed that sustaining the bow precluded the casting of other spells. I allowed the magicka link to fade and, after the bow and quiver dissipated, was easily able cast other spells.

“I take it you are pleased?” offered Acadian.

“You have a gift for understatement, my paladin. I’m sure there are other features of this bow and its quiver that will reveal themselves as I use them.” I then chirped, “Let’s go kill something!”

“Don’t get carried away, my bowgirl.”

*

From Buffy’s Scrapbook
hazmick
As an archer and Conjurer, Haa-Rei finds Buffy's new bow very interesting. I'm just glad that she has something with which to defend herself. Daenlin certainly knows his stuff!

I imagine Buffy's wish for something to kill will be coming true very soon.
ghastley
I'm always fascinated with the balance of the game. So add one powerful bow, but take away spell-casting in return.

Does " It seemed that sustaining the bow precluded the casting of other spells" include having to wait until it expires, or can Buffy choose to dispel the bow when she needs to do so?

The letter from Broderi means she's in TES IV time still, or again, or something like that, so I presume that Buffy still has things to complete, even if Superian doesn't. I'll be watching.
Darkness Eternal
Hmm. That caught me by surprise when the dove became a scroll and back again. Purely magical. Even in that moment Buffy was ever so vigilant. After what happened, I can't blame her. How interesting that Azura put her in that position in the first place. I suspected she had a finger on it.

The mention of Captain Matius stirred the heart. May he rest in peace.


Daenlin's gift is a great one that best suits Buffy. After the misplacement of the last one, this one looks considerably superior and, well, alive. Deadly, indeed.


Lopov
I was slightly afraid at first that the dove is gone for good once Buffy read the scroll but Boderi Farano thought of everything. I also liked that Buffy checked her surroundings before reading the message, you can never be too sure in any wilderness.

Great description of the bow and how it's attuned to Buffy's needs. Now she's no longer bowless. wink.gif

Though the Slayer is a vital part of the final image, one can't miss Buffy either. Despite having just met with her bow, they already look like they've been together for years and know each other accordingly so.
mALX

First off, the letter from Boderi was very touching! It was not only great for a reminder of so many afternoons of sitting on a bench in the gardens at the Arcane and the close relationship between Boderi and Buffy; but it also included a brief history and background from Book 1.

I love that the bow was a gift from people who cared about Buffy and made specifically for her. Putting a bow like that in her hands will go a long way toward healing the pain of her loss and bringing her back!

This screen of the bow made me want a living bow too! The wood grain is Awesome! I loved the description of how it conjured as a living being rather than a weapon or armor; very cool!

Awesome update !!!


mirocu
I´m terribly bad at reading, I´m sorry to say, but I had to make this post.

I´m simply amazed at the level of development and progress Buffy has made over the years. I still remember her riding around in the forests of Cyrodiil, occasionally visiting Lothran in Bruma or on the shores of Anvil. I also remember her flat at the University and the version of Slayer she had back then. Even Superian has undergone drastic changes it seems, but I´m glad to know she´s still at Buffy´s side, through thick and thin.


Carry on, guys.


*sniff*


happy.gif
SubRosa
The courier dove reminds me of the owls from The Harry Potter universe. smile.gif

That was a lovely little interlude about a girl and her bow. I thought it was so perfect that Boderi, Kud-Ei, and Daenlin all collaborated to create the new, summonable Slayer.

Buffy has definitely gone native in her scapbook picture! The brown buckskins suit her so perfectly, as does her new wood-grained twin of Auriel's Bow.
mALX

Oh, SubRosa reminded me that I meant to mention the Courier Dove too, that was Awesome!



Renee
Hey, that's pretty neat, a living weapon for Buffy! How brilliant.

I love the part when the bow shatters that rock, I can just see her getting all obsessed with it. Man, I gotta make one of my t00ns go to Vallenwood one of these days.

And she looks fantastic in that pic too, my goodness. wub.gif
Grits
Catching up here, what a delight! Oh my gosh, Kynareth’s curse from her Kyne days is pure genius. I love everything about it, especially that solving this era’s crisis will lead to the next one. Beautiful! I am so tickled to learn more of Acadian and Phantom in the Dragon Wars. How perfect that Kynareth thought her paladin was the key, only to learn from Azura that she was looking at things from the wrong angle. After all, Azura is the one who pays a lot of attention to their mortals.

In Episode 3 I had to snort over “wyvern in the ointment.” laugh.gif Woo, getting naked is a Nord-approved way to start a story. Then oh my gosh, Phantom taking over for Superian in mid-air with a Shout was such a thrill! What an entrance! She is magnificent!!

Right away in Episode 4 I was hopeful for what Phantom’s new bond with Superian might mean for all of them. As brought out in Part 1’s title, dragons live forever. Buffy’s rapid-fire “flying mare” questions were so Buffy, that made me smile. Oh, and then Vensahliz made me cry. How lovely to see Azura checking on them at the end, even in the screenshot!

I love the practical magic that opens Episode 5. Now the dragon and butterfly symbols hold even more meaning. Wow, the new Slayer is just right! Of course it would be, having been made by people who know Buffy so well and love her so much. I loved getting all of the details as Buffy learned them. Now I won’t have a bunch of questions when Buffy gets to slaying! biggrin.gif Wow, that screenshot is gorgeous! The bow is a beauty, and so is the elf who wields it!

I have loved dragons since Anne McCaffrey’s Ramoth and Lessa, so reading/seeing Buffy on Phantom even for the briefest time was so special to me. It’s amazing to look at Superian’s blue eyes now and know that there’s an ice dragon in there!
Acadian
In Episode 5, a courier dove from the Arcane University brought the bowgirl a spell that conjures a powerful and magical weapon.

hazmick- I’m so pleased that Haa-Rei finds Buffy’s mystic archery interesting. I assure you that Buffy is fascinated by Haa-Rei’s own blending of bow and magic in ESO. smile.gif

ghastley- Thanks! Buffy can dispel the bow at will. Our setting for Book 2 is Valenwood during the late Third Era – after the Kvatch gate is closed but before Dagon assembles enough sigil stones to open a bunch more gates.

DE- Thank you. I’ve thought for a long time that mages should have a less mundane way of sending messages than normal couriers – hence, the courier doves. The loss of Savlian Matius will have a lasting impact on Buffy.

Lopov- Thank you (and DE as well) for mentioning Buffy’s vigilance. Part of that was her natural fragile skittishness and part of it was exactly because she did not have a bow. I’m so pleased that you like her new bow!

mALX- Thank you for your kind words. I know that Buffy’s history is long and detailed so I’m hoping, when bringing up things from her past, to provide a bit of context for newer readers and even to refresh the memories of long-term readers. Yes, Daenlin and Kud-Ei from Bravil are a big part of why Buffy is an archer-illusionist and Boderi Farano of the University is the one who really taught the mystic archer how to fully blend bow and magic. As you can tell, her new bow is quite the hybrid, incorporating elements of spirit magic, bound bow and conventional bow.

mirocu- With nearly 8000 hours of TES playtime, I find Buffy’s spirit remarkably true and unchanging but, as to be expected, her trappings do evolve over time. Little did you or I expect that the magical courier dove concept pioneered by Lothran and Buffy to facilitate their exchange of letters would find a home in Buffy’s story! Thanks so much for popping by to let me know you’re reading. That means the world to Buffy and I. happy.gif

SubRosa- Aww, thank you for the warm encouragement. As you know, we tried several bows before settling on this hybrid. Like you, I love that its origin is so influenced by those precious to Buffy.

Renee- Thanks! We spent lots of time with three different bows before committing to this one. Shattering that rock is Buffy’s clue that the bow probably has armor piercing among its magicks. I consider that an important RP element since arrows in game pierce steel as easily as leather. I’m glad you enjoyed her selfie with bow. tongue.gif

Grits- Thanks much for catching up with us! As I’ve said so often, I love the encouragement you give us and your eye for details. I think you now see some of the challenges we faced when TES V collided with Buffy’s established lore regarding Kyne’s Order of the Ice Dragons and Skyrim’s history. Not to mention the whole time change thing between Oblivion and Skyrim.

*

Today’s episode is short so let me use the opportunity to briefly review and look ahead.

The prelude established some deep background regarding the small role that Buffy’s dragon spirit plays in Tamriel’s future - and the large, but secretive, role that Azura continues to play in her goddaughter’s personal destiny. All of this remains quite unknown to Buffy.

Parts 1 and 2, while quite brief, served to equip Buffy with the trappings that a horse-crazy bowgirl needs. With a mighty mare and a powerful bow, Buffy is now ready to focus on her Valenvoyage of self-discovery.

We begin Part Three now, which takes place primarily in the Strid River Valley and adjacent rolling plains that we have incorporated into northwest Valenwood. I’m sure you will see the influence of tribes that once inhabited the great plains of North America. Those familiar with Jane Auel’s ‘Earth’s Children’ series will also recognize strong influences from her storytelling of prehistoric clans – even the title of Part Three honors the name of one of her books.

Peeking further ahead, Part Four will see Buffy travel deep into the forests and jungles of central Valenwood where it is said some of the trees grow tall enough to kiss the clouds. Part Four will also conclude this book and find Buffy drawn toward Cyrodiil.

* * *

~ Part 3 – Plains of Passage ~

Episode 6

The forest was nostalgically similar to that carpeting the Niben Valley around Bravil. Streaks of morning sunshine penetrated its foliage to dance across the right side of mare and elf as we leisurely made our way. The ground had been gradually rising for several hours now and I noticed the forest beginning to thin. Less and less often did I find myself having to lean well forward against Superian’s neck as she dipped her head to pass under low branches. By my reckoning, this day would see us traverse a high and arid area of rolling prairie before descending to the Strid River that defined Valenwood’s northern border. I had no intention of crossing into Cyrodiil but I figured the river would comfortably support a campsite long enough for me to hunt a deer, process its meat into dried strips for traveling and even tan the hide into buckskin. Birds punctuated the relaxing morning with song as my thoughts drifted to the prospect of fresh fish for dinner followed by a cleansing swim.

Superian’s sudden stop jarred me into realizing the treetops had gone silent.

Blocking the path ahead stood a minotaur. Taller than an Altmer and several times as wide, he cut an imposing figure. I knew these creatures to be both foul-tempered and territorial. As I pondered whether to retreat, the bull-man snorted and pawed the ground with one hoof in challenge.

My mare answered defiantly in kind.

“You’re right,” I whispered to her as I eased Slayer from my back and nocked an arrow. “We no longer need to run from such brutes.”

The minotaur raised a crude mace and shook it threateningly. Superian read the signals from my knees and stood motionless as I drew and aimed. While my mounted accuracy did not match what I could achieve on foot, this was a large target. I loosed.

The arrow slammed into the front of his left shoulder, staggering the beast.

By the time I drew and aimed again, the minotaur had closed nearly half the distance. My arrow flew harmlessly under his raised mace arm.

Superian turned slightly and we bolted forward, passing close by his left – unarmed - side. After a few seconds, I wheeled the mare around sharply, snatching a third arrow from my quiver.

Our foe had turned and begun his charge anew. My arrow hit high on his chest. He staggered, dropping the mace as I readied a fourth arrow. After a long moment he fell backwards, resonating against the ground with finality. Returning the unneeded missile to its quiver, I shouldered Slayer. “Thank you, Superian.” I leaned forward and patted her neck as we closed the distance to the minotaur. “You’re a brave and steady warhorse.”

I attributed Superian’s improved courage under fire more to the archer on her back than the dragon spirit within – for when I was not in her saddle, she was no braver than any prey animal. Aside from her changes in size and appearance, I had noticed few differences in the mare since Phantom had joined her. She did seem generally less skittish though. I liked to imagine that the ever-present companionship of the spirit she now carried inspired the same comfort and confidence that Acadian afforded me. Perhaps part of her calmness now was due to her larger size and what Acadian assured me was a much more robust constitution. I had, in fact, noticed that when she sustained minor cuts, scrapes or insect bites they healed completely within a matter of moments. Overall though, Superian was still very much my precious mare.

I severed my arcane link to Slayer, allowing bow and quiver to evaporate as I dismounted. It was a welcome break from the weapon’s small but constant magicka drain required to sustain its presence.

I knelt to examine the semi-bovine corpse. My spent arrows would dispel within the hour. The bow’s quiver had a capacity of twenty five and materialized with a full complement each time I summoned it. I did note a small pouch at the monster’s waist and recovered several assorted rubies, sapphires and even a small diamond.

While I could sustain and shoot Slayer from astride Superian, my positional spellcasting limitations precluded summoning it from the saddle. If I wanted the bow available while riding, I had to conjure and shoulder it on the ground before mounting. I did so and we continued on our way.

Having used Slayer for nearly a tenday now, I had learned more of its magic. The weapon’s primary attribute was the wondrous ability to help this weak elf with its powerful draw and control recovery to nearly eliminate any sound as it fired. Even though I had not yet engaged an armored foe, I was convinced that the bow infused its arrows with the ability to pierce armor. Experimenting with Azura’s Star had revealed that the weapon could channel the arcane energy of its dying victims into magicka gems. While this ability could be useful for filling such stones, Slayer did not need recharging. Its magic was, like its very presence, drawn from my own magicka reserves.

The sun had still not reached its zenith when I drew Superian to a stop, allowing our long ears to listen carefully. I smiled at the welcome sound of trickling water that indicated a spring or small stream ahead.

As we drew closer, my keen eyes detected no movement or threats. Noting Superian’s relaxed ears and breathing, I was confident that her long nose picked up no scents of concern ahead. “Let’s stop up here to get a drink and fill our waterskin.”
Renee
Yeah, look out minotaurs, and any enemy who doth face Buffy and her new bow. I visualized that minotaur like a bad monster in a movie...you just sort of know he's not going to last too long! hehe.gif

mALX


I had some trouble understanding a few parts in this story; probably because the reader kept getting "Lll'd" to death.

First off, I absolutely LOVED the first paragraph; Buffy at her Buffiest!

Not sure if I understood the next part, I think the "defiantly" threw me. Was Superian challenging a minotaur? She wasn't afraid of it? Or is it because she has the dragon inside her giving her moxie?

Oh, this fight was Awesome!!! I haven't actually seen fighting on horseback in Skyrim vids, I want to look some up after this! AWESOME !!!

The second line I had trouble with understanding was the arrows:

QUOTE

My spent arrows would dispel within the hour.


Okay, the spent arrows are the ones sticking out of the minotaur, right? Is that what you are talking about? And by dispel, does that mean the arrow itself will disappear and go back to the void or wherever it was conjured from? Or are you saying the magical enchantment on them will dispel within the hour?

I'm sorry, Acadian, I was just not understanding what you were conveying there. It isn't your writing at fault here at all, it is my brain not picking it up.

I think Buffy is right; if the bow split a rock in half it is probably armor piercing, lol.

LOVED how Buffy compared "our long ears," that was such a testament to how close Buffy is to her mare!

Awesome Write, and sorry about my issues - it is me, not your writing.








Lopov
Buffy in conjunction with Slayer and Superian is a winning combination. I had a good feeling about this fight when it was about to begin. And a quiver that 'refills' on its own - Buffy couldn't ask for more. wink.gif
SubRosa
The streaks of morning sunshine dappling through the foliage paints a wonderfully bucolic setting right from the start.

If Buffy is not going to run from that brute, then that is a bad sign for that brute!

Superian regenerates? Let's hope she didn't take on any of Wolverine's less social habits! wink.gif Still, Buffy is the best there is at what she does, even if what she does isn't particularly pretty...
Darkness Eternal
The chapter title had me hooked. Indeed a native feel to it. Then again, everything Bosmer is nature-centric. Their religion, beliefs and ways are not so different.

The stroll through the forest was beautiful and captivating. The tranquility of a forest is a great thing, but as all beautiful things, there is an ugly side . . .that comes in the form of foul-tempered Bull-Men. Viciously territorial, indeed. I remember they were scattered throughout the wilds of Cyrodiil. Seems Valenwood has them, too.

The ones in ESO come armored. Yikes.

I had a feeling one arrow wouldn't be enough to deter the beast, but one in the right spot made sure to drop it a final time. Superian was quite the friend, here, as always. I think Superian's ability of self-healing will come in handy, if it hasn't already. That was pretty cool. I'm glad her trusty mount has all these powers.

Slayer is an awesome weapon; no soul gems required. Buffy's magicka reserves are enough to make the weapon come to life, and its deadly arrows into a foe. Glad her journey is coming along well. Not a day passes where its not adventure for her. biggrin.gif
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