This book began with Buffy being briefly incarcerated in the Imperial Prison and will end as she attempts to bring freedom to the city of Kvatch. It is a sprawling story that will require more than 150 episodes, spread over five threads. Appropriately, I have nicknamed Book 1, 'Do You Know the Way to Kvatch?'

Thread 1 included episodes 1-26.

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Please allow me to offer a small summary of Thread 1 that I hope might prove useful as a review, or for those who are joining us in progress:

Buffy witnessed the death of Uriel Septim VII in the Imperial Prison. She eventually delivered the Amulet of Kings to Jauffre, who treated her rudely. Buffy's response to this, of course, was to drop the amulet on his desk and storm out.

At one point in her travels, Buffy encountered an Oblivion gate at Kvatch. Terrified, she quickly heeded the orders of Savlian Matius to leave the area. In their brief encounter however, Buffy seemed drawn to the brave Captain Matius - quite struck by his noble and selfless bravery. She was confident the Empire would resolve the situation that she considered well beyond her meager ability to influence.

Our orphan from Bravil then began to refine her confidence and skills toward adventure, even recently graduating from the Arcane University as a mystic archer.

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Now, for those newer readers who would like to catch up to us in one short sitting, you might find this helpful: Buffy – The Executive Summary Thread.

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When we last left Buffy, she had just earned the Star of Azura. It seemed her immediate plans were to dispatch some minor chores in the Imperial City, then head home. We now join Buffy, in the City of Mara.




"Hmph, she doesn't look like much of a mage to me," snorted Fathis Aren. "More like a half-dressed wood nymph running around with a bow most of the time. Thankfully, somebody at least coaxed the little forest creature into a proper dress tonight."

The Bravil guild was assembled at the dining table enjoying a meal in celebration of my graduation from the Arcane University. It had been delayed for several weeks because our guild head, Kud-Ei, had been visiting relatives in the Black Marsh. I was seated across the table from Fathis Aren. His words silenced the room.

I set my fork down and said icily, "I wasn't aware that your approval of my appearance was required." Fathis had been abusive towards me for some time. I guessed it was because I had, on more than one occasion, deflected his amorous advances. It seemed he liked 'wood nymphs'. I might have thought that humorous but, at the moment, there was nothing suggesting humor in the dark elf's dangerous manner. There was also no doubt that his magic skills vastly exceeded my own. To make matters worse, my bow was at home. It had never occurred to me that I might need to defend myself within the sanctuary of my own guild. Despite the blue gown that Delphine had kindly 'coaxed me into', I felt quite naked.

The Dunmer sorcerer coldly returned my gaze, seemingly unimpressed. "I'll caution you, young Apprentice, to mind your tone when addressing the Staff Wizard to the Court of Bravil." His hand was glowing menacingly and just a hint of sparks danced from his fingers as they drummed the surface of the table.

I felt my anger simmering as I slowly stood up. I knew I couldn't cast a spell to defend myself if I was seated. I was unsure if the powerful wizard across the table was similarly constrained, or whether his sparks were just for show.

Fathis' eyes remained locked on mine as he leaned slightly forward. With one elbow on the table, he slowly raised that ominously glowing hand towards his ear. The slight sparking between his fingers intensified slightly.

Kud-Ei, from her seat at the head of the table, stood as I did. "You just hold it right there Fathis!" The glaring Argonian crossed her arms defiantly over her chest. "I'll do anything for my girls. You may be someone important over in that castle, but this is my guild house. What has gotten in to you? Did the Count yank your chain today? If you think you can come in here and try to intimidate one of my mages, you have another thing coming. You just stop this nonsense right now and mind your manners, or get out of my guild! Is that clear?"

By now, Delphine Jend was also on her feet, with deadly resolve in her eyes. I realized Kud-Ei could instantly paralyze the sorcerer or take control of his mind if she chose. Delphine on the other hand, could freeze Fathis solid, then shatter him like a block of ice. Fathis might have been a match for one, but he could not hope to survive the pair of formidable guild mates now standing on my behalf. Mystical energy and tension pulsed through the room, causing the hair to rise slightly from the back of my neck. The power of these giants of magic dwarfed the pathetic flare spell, or even dancing cobra that I could cast.

If there was any emotion in Fathis' red eyes, it didn't show. He continued looking directly at me while addressing the head of the Bravil guild. "Why Mother Kud-Ei, I meant no offense to your young charge." The glow slowly faded from his hand as he reached for the goblet in front of him. "In fact, let me propose a toast to your newly returned graduate." He raised his goblet.

Fathis caused us no further trouble that evening. I had always admired and looked up to Kud-Ei. I now loved her dearly, and was so very proud to be one of 'her girls'.

After dinner, Ita Rienus pulled me aside. "Don't worry too much about Fathis. He fancies himself quite the ladies' man, and I know he's been pestering you. You're an attractive young elf with a beautiful heart and spirit, Buffy. To Fathis however, I suspect you simply represent another potential notch for his bedpost. That his advances have turned to insults is, oddly enough, encouraging. It means he realizes he's lost this conquest. I'm sure he'll move on to another soon.

Still shaken by the encounter, I asked, "Did you see how cold his eyes were, Ita? Do you think he will try to hurt me?"

"Oh my, he did scare you, child." The older Imperial's eyebrows furrowed with concern. "I truly don't believe you're in danger. Even though he's not in our chapter, Fathis is still subject to the rules of the Mages Guild Charter just like the rest of us. He won't cross the Council of Mages by hurting a member of the guild. It would risk his cushy position at the castle."

"I'm sure you're right. As much as he angers and frightens me, I hope someday he finds that special woman who can capture his heart," I smiled sweetly and added, "so she can break it and leave behind a crushed shell."

Ita's eyes widened, then she returned my smile. "Well I guess it's true enough that Oblivion hath no fury like a woman scorned. . . but enough of this kind of talk." Changing the subject, she said, "You look as pretty as the Dangerous Delphine tonight."

"Thank you." I blushed. "I'm afraid I didn't give her much to work with, but you know our irrepressible Delphine; she couldn't resist the challenge." I held up my arms, clad in blue velvet, and playfully spun around once. "Here I am, in one of her dresses. She even provided some of her jewelry for the night, and taught me another way I can arrange my hair."

Ita stabbed a finger at the air over my shoulder. "Look, here comes the Diva of Destruction hersel-"

"Oh there's our graduate!" Delphine breezed into the conversation. The bubbly Breton smiled and fussed busily with the neckline of my dress as she continued, "Now, isn't this much nicer than wearing those. . ." she wrinkled her nose, "animal skins you and Daenlin seem to favor?"

I couldn't help but smile. "Thank you for the fashion assistance, Delphine - and for standing on my behalf at dinner."

She frowned and lowered her voice - both were unusual actions for Delphine. "Listen, if that green bag of wind who does parlor tricks for the count bothers you again, you just let me know. I'll turn him into a chicken!" Without pausing for breath, her face brightened and she was off to another subject. "Don't worry about those destruction grades you got at the University, Buffy. We'll have you blowing things up before you know it. Why, we'll start with crates and barrels," Delphine's hands started dancing descriptively, "then work our way up to small buildings, then -" her eyes darted across the room. "Oh is that Carandial I see? You ladies simply must excuse me." As quickly as she had whirled into the discussion, Delphine was off again.

Ita shook her head, but smiled fondly as Delphine flittered away. "I get tired just watching her." The Imperial's eyes suddenly sparkled as she plunged a hand into the folds of her burgundy skirt and produced Azura's Star. Placing it in my hand, she said, "Thanks for letting me study this for the past couple days. It is indeed everything we had hoped for, and I know it'll serve you well."

"I'm very fortunate to have earned Azura's favor, Ita. I think she liked me. Thank you for sharing the legend with me and putting up with my badgering questions."

Another guest that evening was Ungarion. The Altmer owned 'A Warlock's Luck', the magic shop in Bravil. He was not a member of the guild, but visited us routinely. As the evening was winding down, he approached, smiling. "Let me add my congratulations and welcome home to you!"

"Why thank you Ungarion. I'm pleased that you joined us tonight." I looked up into his eyes and could see that he had more to say. Tilting my head pleasantly, I invited him to continue.

Ungarion dropped his voice and lowered his head towards me. "Buffy, some of your recent. . . ah, how shall we say this. . . adventures have come to my attention. In fact, there is a matter I would very much like to discuss with you," a single eyebrow climbed his forehead as he added, "privately. Would you do me the honor of sharing a meal in my store tomorrow after hours?"

I was intrigued. The high elf was a respected merchant and had always been kind to me. After a moment I replied, "Ungarion, I'd be pleased to. See you tomorrow then."

After the party was over and I was home in bed, I thought about the events of the evening. Buffy, what were you thinking, standing to confront Fathis Aren? Were it not for the intervention of Kud-Ei and Delphine, you could easily be dead now.

When I was insulted, I did or said dangerously stupid things. I was sure Fathis had hoped I would cast a silly flare spell or some such at him. Yes, that would have given him a handy self-defense justification to turn my bones into ash - which I had no doubt he could do. I thought about Boderi's characterization of me. Someday, my dragon spirit would really get my butterfly butt into trouble.

The episode with Fathis reminded me of my confrontation with Earana in Chorrol, after giving the 'Fingers of the Mountain' book to Teekeeus. My angry words overrode prudence there also. Were it not for the watchful Chorrol city guard, that incident could have meant my death. Unlike Fathis however, Earana was not a member of the guild. She was not restricted by the rules - but neither was I.

I had been back to Chorrol on several occasions since my first encounter with the rogue mage. Each time she had become more threatening. I was convinced that her death or mine was inevitable. Further, I firmly believed whoever chose the conditions and struck first would survive, while the other would not.

As I drifted off to sleep, my thoughts turned to Ungarion. What sort of mysterious business did the merchant of magic trinketry have in mind? Oh well, I would find out the next evening.

From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

Kud-Ei! hoorah! I loved your description of the mages' stand-off and the description of the magic at Fathis' fingertips. Do I detect a future confrontation with Earana? I'll be eagerly awaiting the next chapter!

P.S: Buffy looks good in that dress, nice screenie!

Oooh, that Fathis!

I found out on UESP Wiki that he is merely an Associate in the Mages Guild. After performing a few of Raminus's quests, my PC of the moment usually likes to pull rank on that Dunmer! Also, Julian will find out on her next visit that due to all the summonsing she has done in closing OG's, that she now has more skill in Conjuration than that egoistical Castle Wizard! Of course, both he and Count Terentius are welcome to each other.

There was a lot to like here. I really enjoyed the ongoing development of Ita Renius and Delphine the Diva of Destruction.

And Buffy needs to learn to count to ten!

I love how you captured the attitude of Fathis Aren.

Yay for Kud-Ei, and I see Delphine this time around as well! The scene with Fathis reminds me of a somewhat similar one in Sharpes Rifles, where an officer is acting like a complete boat at dinner, with Sharpe and his lady just a few tables away. Finally Sharpe turns and loudly declares "There are ladies present, one would hope there would be gentlemen as well!" Naturally, a duel nearly followed.

Well I guess it's true enough that Oblivion hath no fury like a woman scorned
Indeed it does not, especially when put in such a setting-friendly manner.

Someday, my dragon spirit would really get my butterfly butt into trouble.
Yep, that is our Buffy. Hopefully experience will temper her, well, temper.

And such an adorable picture. Buffy certainly does clean up very well! The necklace/neck seam remover mod you are using goes perfect with that dress.

It is always good to have friends- having a winning personality and earning that friendship certainly helps.



Good on you, Buffy!

And now Ungarion is up to something- mysterious- which may also find our blonde bow-bearing Bosmer beauty's butterfly butt in trouble.

Excellent writing Acadian! Looks like our little Bowgirl has a date. Buffy looked really nice in that Blue Velvet outfit by the way.

And now Ungarion is up to something- mysterious- which may also find our blonde bow-bearing Bosmer beauty's butterfly butt in trouble.








Naughty Trey!!! You also have caught the Foxy disease!!!

Congratulations on thread number two (or should I say three?)!

Like everyone else already said, the stand-off and the way that Buffy’s guildmates came to her defense was just great. I am also curious to know what Buffy plans to do about Earana and what Ungarion wants to speak to her about.

But my favorite thing about this chapter is the way that you characterized Delphine:

To paraphrase Ita; I got tired just reading that!

First off, congrats on the new thread!!!


Treydog already picked out my fave line - ARGH !!!! Lol. I recognized most of this, but you have touched it up, and this one is my fave of the two !!!

Diva of Destruction....

Chapter 27 resolved a potentially dangerous encounter with Fathis Aren during Buffy's graduation party at her guild hall. She later accepted an invitation from Ungarion to discuss some 'private business' the following evening.

hazmick- Thank you! Yes, Kud-Ei was the hero of this mages' standoff. I do believe Buffy is foreshadowing here about Earana - within a few episodes in fact.

Rider- Ah, good to know about Fathis - I guess anybody can be castle wizard in Bravil! The solid Ita and bubbly Delphine were great fun to write! Yes, Buffy and her temper. . . .

Zalphon- Thank you. Fathis is an interesting character. I know you like Dunmer.

SubRosa- Thank you! As ever, you picked up and mentioned much of what we were trying to do here. I remember, and thank you for suggesting we turn Buffy's spirit from an 'adventurer' to a 'dragon' - it is turning out to be durable and fun - particularly when combined with her frail and flittery butterfly side. I'm glad you liked the screenie.

treydog- Thank you for the kind words. Buffy the Bravilian Bowgirl loved your alliteration! Being the only mystic archer we have ever encountered, Buffy sometimes feels a little out of place in the mages guild; she was therefore overwhelmed at the display of support from her fellow mages.

Grizzly- Thank you! Buffy felt a little awkward without her buckskins or Arena raiment, but I agree with you that she looked pretty good in one of Delphine's dresses. As Rider has pointed out with Julian however, women never seem to believe it when told they look nice.

Foxy- Yes, a mysterious date with Ungarion. Hey - it's business - no ifs ands or butterflies.

Destri- Thank you! Buffy spends the next two episodes with Ungarion. Thank you so much for quoting the passage featuring the whirling dervish of energy.
Delphine:
Ita:
Buffy:

mALX- Thanks for mentioning the same line trey quoted. I liked that it highlighted the contrast and contradictions in Buffy's young, powerful emotions.

Remko- I'm so glad you enjoyed one of Delphine's appropriate nicknames! Thanks!



Bravil's streets were now dimly lit by flickering lanterns as I stepped from my home. Lighting a torch to brighten my path, I crossed the wooden bridge. Once the river that split the town was behind me, I turned right and soon found myself standing beneath the sign for 'A Warlock's Luck'.

In response to my knock, I heard several tumblers fall into place before the door swung open. "Ah, welcome. Please come in." Ungarion graciously ushered me inside and relocked the door behind me. "You look positively enchanting tonight."

"Why thank you Ungarion." I extinguished my torch and leaned it against the heavy wooden door. Seating myself in the chair offered by my host, I nervously smoothed my skirt. The mild smell of incense was overpowered by delicious smells coming from the simmering pot over a crackling fire. "Whatever you're cooking smells wonderful." My eyes were drawn to all manner of mystical curiosities that adorned the tables and counters. Parchments, bearing runes I did not recognize, filled the scant available wall space between tapestries.

"Something to drink perhaps?" the Altmer smoothly asked. "Wine, brandy?"

"Some Tamika's would be nice." I said pleasantly, trying to mask my wariness.

Ungarion poured some wine for me and Cyrodiilic brandy for himself. He then sat across the small table from me and raised his silver goblet, along with one eyebrow. "The boar stew will be ready soon. Shall we get down to business?"

After a token sip of wine, I responded, "Ungarion, what's this all about? Why the mystery?"

"Well, my dear, the mystery is necessary. What we are going to discuss is not something one talks about in public." Ungarion swirled the brandy, took a sip and lowered his goblet to the table. "Buffy, I presume you are aware that if you scratch the surface of Bravil, you will find quite the underbelly of a black market."

"You invited me here to reveal there's a skooma trade in Bravil?" I relaxed a bit. "Do you forget I've lived here all my life, silly?"

"No my dear." Ungarion shook his head with an indulgent Altmeri smile. "I have no interest in peddling refined moon sugar slop for the addicts across the street to swill. Nordinor can more than provide for their self-destructive habit. Now, as you know, I am an enchanter, merchant and retired adventurer. That positions me perfectly to quietly attain and move some rather. . . ah, unique merchandise items. The same darker aspects of my past that prevented me from ever being accepted into the guild of mages have provided a network of connections that quietly serves me well."

"So," I said, beginning to understand, "you run a side business trading in exotic and perhaps illegal items. What exactly are you getting at?"

"I think we can help each other, Buffy. But dinner is ready." The Altmer rose and brought stew, bread and cheese to the table, while I refilled our goblets.

"This is a wonderful meal Ungarion," I said truthfully between mouthfuls. "What is it you think we can buy or sell from each other?" I had started just touching the goblet to my lips instead of drinking from it. I figured I was outmatched enough here without any help from Tamika.

Ungarion raised a small bag from the floor and rolled the item it contained into view upon the table. Orange sparkles danced across its black surface and swirled above the sphere that was slightly larger than an apple. A disconcerting humming sound made my ears tingle as the object exuded magic into the air. "This, Buffy, is a sigil stone."

I couldn't tear my eyes from the tiny lights. They were like fireflies, hypnotically hovering around the stone. "Where did it come from? What does it do?" I put my hands over my ears.

Ungarion returned the distracting stone to its bag. The dancing lights followed it inside and the noise was silenced. "They often, but not always, come from the planes of Oblivion. Sigil stones can be used to open and maintain portals, or gates to the domains of Daedra. Of more interest to us however, is the fact that they can also be used to create enchanted items. Different stones have different strengths and abilities. Most of the effects are similar to what you can create at your enchanting altars, but often much stronger."

"But where do you get them Ungarion? Surely you don't travel to the planes of Oblvion!" I asked as I remembered the flaming gate I had seen at Kvatch.

"That is indeed one place they may be found," the Almer explained. "A sigil stone however, is simply a purified morpholith that has been inscribed by a Daedric Prince. . . or Deadra Lord if you prefer. No one can fathom the ways of such beings, or why they might traffic in these stones. Regarding the planes of Oblivion, the dragonfires normally prevent portals from forming. With Emperor Uriel dead and no successor crowned, the Temple of the One is now dark for the first time in recent memory. Centuries ago however, there were several periods when the dragonfi. . . . Ah, forgive me. I see I am losing you."

"Please Ungarion, get to your point." My feigned irritation was an attempt to conceal the intellectual inadequacy I felt. Morpholiths? Dragonfires? Ungarion was talking well beyond the level of my studies at the University.

"Let me phrase things a bit more simply for you, my dear." The Altmer continued. "Do not be so arrogant as to think you and I are the only adventurers to have walked Tamriel over the centuries. Further, do not presume to understand the ways of Daedra Lords. The exact nature of my sources are not important to this negotiation. What should be of concern to you, is deciding if you might be interested in acquiring one or more of these stones from me."

I was unprepared for this. Ungarion had just turned much of what I knew about enchanting upside down. My mind was swirling with confusion and possibilities. I tilted my head and narrowed my eyes. "What type of effects, and in what strengths can you provide?"

"Ah, I see you are interested." Ungarion's eyes brightened. "There are many effects, and the stones come in different strengths. Further, I can only supply what my sources are able to provide. Let's approach this from a different direction. What types of effects do you want that your precious University enchanting altars cannot provide?"

Could it be? My pulse quickened. I thought of the times Superian and I had been startled by foes. It was difficult and dangerous to travel with her, being unable to see approaching life signs - I couldn't cast my spell astride the mare. I knew exactly what I wanted. I tried not to show my eagerness. "Tell me Ungarion, can these stones enchant the mystical effect of detect life? And I don't mean the short ranges I can enchant at the University's altars."

Ungarion smiled. "I just so happen to have two such stones. They can each detect life signs up to a range of almost two hundred feet."

After picking up my goblet, I lowered my eyes and pretended to drink. I needed a moment to compose myself. I set the goblet down and said as calmly as I could, "Tell me, Ungarion, could these stones be used to enchant rings? If so, I might be interested - at the right price."

From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot


Ungarion's ability to sell the occasional sigil stone or other limited exotic merchandise at exorbitant prices does not exist in the normal game, of course. Feeling strongly that it should however, I have incorporated the ability into Buffy's game - albeit with significant restrictions.

So Ungarion brought Buffy to his house and plied her with food and drink (which was excellent BTW) all so that he could make a sale? No wonder The Warlock’s Luck is always empty, people are waiting for dinner! I half-expected him to ask Buffy to be one of his sources, given her adventurous nature. At first I thought Buffy had dropped her goblet when he told her that he did indeed have two stones of detect life. I laughed at the thought that whatever shrewd haggling Buffy might wish to engage in was blown by some spilled Tamika’s. I hope Ungarion doesn’t try to gouge her here. It would be nice for Buffy to have a source for the, shall we say, exotic item.

A nit?
It appears that Buffy was so eager to hear Ungarion’s proposition that she took an extra ‘of’ from the house.

That Ungarion, he's a sly one. I wish someone would sell sigil stones in-game...and give me food...and wine...
I, like Destri, was also expecting Buffy to be cast into Oblivion to find these stones, I am thankful that She's only buying one.

ARGH! Buffy looks so small next to Ungarion!!! Oh, I loved this scene in the original too, Buffy is quite the negotiator !!!

Sometimes I wish I didn't have to go inside the darned Gates to get a sigil stone! Ugh! The Deadlands are some of my least favorite places in TES - even SI's Dementia is preferable!

I loved what you did with Ungarion here. Making him an illicit dealer in sigil stones just adds a certain depth to the web that is Bravil. I keep thinking of Shanghai a hundred years ago, when all kinds of nasty stuff was going on then (and still is, to a certain extent I imagine). The fact that Buffy is going to get involved in this just adds another depth to her character.

This rewrite is better than what I remember of the previous one. I really liked your description of the sigil stone.

Those words juxtaposed with the screen-shot… “Next you’ll tell me water is wet.”



That University education was not wasted on our elf!

The description of the stone and of Buffy's reaction were the sort of first-rate storytelling I have come to expect from you.

An excellent meal, a pedantic Altmer, and a startling revelation. My mind and my belly are both well-satisfied with this chapter. I have a feeling that Ungarion will want something other than gold in payment- no, not that, either! He has been around Bravil too long to make the mistake of trying to extort that sort of “favor” from Buffy!

One of my favorite Altmer - Ungarion. I always loved his sense of humor in the game. He takes on a much darker feel in the BF, which is not a bad thing at all. You have made him into a something of a scoundrel, which is always good for man, as it gives him a bit of mystery and excitement. Here we see him with quite the tempting offer. Yet one has to wonder what the price might be for such rare and powerful treasures he has to offer...

I figured I was outmatched enough here without any help from Tamika.
One of those lessons a certain stringy Bosmer is still working on...


nits:
'A Warlock's Luck
Did you mean for there to be a closing single quote here?

Another excellent read from Acadian! I foresee many adventures in Buffy's near future, perhaps quests to obtain gold to purchase the Sigil Stones that he offers? Perhaps, perhaps Buffy will take no part in the illegal underground Black Market, although she did capture a human's life essence for her powerful bow. Can't wait for more!

In Chapter 28, Buffy discovered that Ungarion was quietly running a high end black market operation. As he showed her a sigil stone, and explained some details about them, the possibilities got the bowgirl's attention. She is quite interested, but equally curious about what the merchant may want in return.

Destri- Thank you. A dilemma: 'The Black Market' story would carry its impact better if presented all at once, but I find much of the detail gets lost if a post is too long. For better or for worse, I opted to split this story. I hope the second half will increase the stakes and tie some things together. Thank you so much also for catching that nit so I could fix it.

hazmick- Thank you! I hope you enjoy the second half of her 'dinner' with Ungarion.

mALX- Thank you! The screenie once again shows the contrast between a 1.1 height Altmer and Buffy, who at 0.9, is the same height as Daenlin. I fear Buffy may be outclassed here by the professional merchant.

Rider- Thank you for favorably comparing the rewrite to the original. It is some of the richer detail we included that pushed this chapter into two episodes. I hope you enjoy the second half. Argh! It just occurred that if Buffy wants sigil stones, she should simply seek out Julian - I hear she has loads of them!

treydog- Thank you for noting that the sigil stone physically affected Buffy right up to the tips of her pointed ears. You are correct that Ungarion will want more than gold in payment. And you wisely point out he is not likely to be seeking that kind of payment.

SubRosa- Thank you! Buffy will display the beginnings of some fine verbal dueling skills in part 2, but alas, there is no doubt she is outmatched by the polished, yet likable merchant. Thank you so much for catching that nit.

Grizzly- Thank you for the kind words! I hope part 2 answers the questions.

All- Now, the conclusion of 'The Black Market' -



Ungarion considered my questions for a moment.

"Infusing sigil stone enchantments to rings? Certainly. As far as what I would require in payment, that brings us to the other side of negotiating now doesn't it?" The experienced merchant smiled. "More wine, dear?"

I waved a hand over the top of my goblet. "No thank you. Please continue."

"I was talking to Daenlin recently. Really, Buffy, he is so very proud of you. Why you should have seen his old eyes sparkle as he told me about the bow you created." The Altmer's chatty manner suddenly became quite serious, and he looked directly into my eyes. "In fact, he mentioned exactly what the bow does and how many charges it has."

Ungarion paused to allow the effect of his words to sink in, before continuing. "Daenlin loves you like a granddaughter, however he lacks sufficient knowledge of magic to realize the betrayal hidden within his words. I, on the other hand, am quite familiar with the specifics of enchanting. Now, where in the world did a young elf like you get a grand soul?"

I felt a warm flush as the blood rose to my face and neck. I was sure the white blouse barely covering my shoulders did nothing to conceal my embarrassment. My bow, Slayer, had indeed been enchanted with a black soul gem containing the captured grand life force of a bandit. "I think you know the answer to that. Just like you also know the answer could expel me from the guild."

Dismay at having this dark secret discovered was quickly replaced by concern and anger regarding whatever leverage Ungarion thought he might try to exert over me. I chose my words carefully, opting for simple truth. "Ungarion, you need to realize that my loyalty is not to the guild of mages; rather it is to individuals who are kind to me - like Kud-Ei and Daenlin. Has my trust in the kindness you and I have displayed towards each other in the past been misplaced? It would sadden me greatly to leave the guild, but if you think I will allow you to manipulate me over my use of a black soul gem, you have another thing coming. There is nothing illegal about what I did. Can you say the same about your activities?" It was my turn to raise a single eyebrow. Your move Ungarion.

The Altmer's face, which had remained inscrutable during my little speech, softened. His smile reappeared and he held up one hand disarmingly. "Buffy, speaking as one with less than a. . . stellar past myself, please trust that I have no intention of revealing our little secrets. My intent was simply to highlight that we share a mutual appreciation for discretion. The guild doesn't need to know of your necromantic predilections. Similarly, neither the Legion nor the city guard need to know the details of my little. . . enterprise. Now, that said, I have customers who would pay dearly for black soul gems."

"I'm interested then - now that we understand each other. These two sigil stones you mentioned, what exactly is your price?" I felt a bit more in control, as I touched the goblet of Tamika's to my lips and pretended to drink.

"Ah yes! Down to business." The Altmer grinned and rubbed his hands together. "Each stone will cost you a black soul gem, plus a rather substantial amount of gold." He then quoted a figure that made me grateful I didn't have a mouthful of wine.

"Ungarion! That's more than Count Terentius demanded when I bought my small house." Why did I feel like an insect inside the lair of a rather brilliant, but oily spider? "Is there no way to lower the price?" As soon as the words left my mouth, I realized my pleading tone revealed too much eagerness.

"I'm afraid not," said Ungarion. He seemed to now be enjoying himself. "Any necromancer could supply me with black soul gems. I would prefer, of course, to deal with a more. . . trustworthy source such as yourself. On the other hand, you cannot imagine the risks involved in obtaining these sigil stones. I'll tell you what. If we make a deal right now, I'll throw in a couple rings for no extra charge and we'll send you out of here tonight with a pair of enchanted detect life rings. Need I remind you that between the two stones, that is a range of nearly four hundred feet?"

The merchant was experienced enough to have seen right through my feigned efforts at 'mild interest at the right price'. I blew an imagined strand of hair from my face in resignation. "Deal." Ok, Buffy, there goes most of the gold that just a couple weeks ago you were bragging to Daenlin about. "I'll need to retrieve the required payment from my home." Rising to my feet, I added, "I can be back in a few minutes."

After a quick run home, I was soon seated again across from Ungarion, a large bag of gold on the table between us. "You may trust that I have the gems. Now, make the rings."

Ungarion stood, and without inspecting its contents, moved the heavy bag to the floor behind his sales counter. He then reached into a display case and produced two unremarkable silver rings. "Wait here." He disappeared up the stairs.

I opened my pack, removed two black soul gems and hid them within the silken folds of my green skirt.

Several minutes later, Ungarion padded down the stairs and placed two softly glowing rings on the table. "Try them."

"I'll trust you," I picked up the rings and looked Ungarion directly in the eyes, "after all, I know where you live, and I apparently don't have to tell you how dangerous my bow is."

Ungarion's eyes widened slightly, but his face remained pleasant. The spider apparently had not quite expected that response from the insect seated across from him. "Point taken, my friend. I promise you they will perform as I have said. Now, the gems?"

"Oh yes." I placed two black soul gems on the table.

Ungarion inspected the pair of dark stones, holding them up to his ear to ensure they were empty. He smiled. "More wine, my dear?"

"I think not. In fact I shall call it a night, Ungarion," I lied. "Thank you for dinner."

"Certainly." Ungarion unlocked the door to his shop and lit my torch for me. "Should you require more. . . shall we say, hard to find items, let me know, hmm?"

I walked home quickly. The smooth and experienced merchant had clearly flustered and outmaneuvered me. I didn't care.

Just a few minutes later I emerged from my house. The silk skirt and peasant blouse had been replaced by a hunter's vest, along with buckskin greaves and boots. My quiver and bow were on my back. I ran all the way through the dark town and out the city gate of Bravil before I stopped.

Pink glows erupted everywhere as I slid the two rings on. There was the guard on post at the end of the bridge. Behind the stables building were Superian and Carandial's bay, Aetherious. Gazing towards the Niben, I could see several crawling pink glows - mudcrabs - all the way down by the shore!

Superian didn't understand my excitement, but nevertheless became infected with it as I saddled her. She was prancing sideways, snorting and bobbing her head as I led her from the stables. I then mounted my precious mare, turned her north along the Green Road and let her choose the pace.

As we rode under the stars, I reveled in the feeling of confidence and safety. Finally, I could detect threats before they approached Superian and I. My new rings solved the problem of not being able to cast a detect life spell while riding. In fact, they would free me of having to recast my spell while on foot as well. I thought back to the countless times I had wished for this.

Reluctantly, I turned Superian back towards Bravil. Ok, so I was almost broke (again). And well, yes, I was dealing in black market goods. But I figured at the end of the day, a girl's gotta have what a girl's gotta have.

From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

The negotiation was first-rate! You infused Ungarion with a delicious sense of amorality. And Buffy’s understanding of her limits- both as a negotiator and in terms of her refusal to be pushed beyond a certain point- was excellent.



But I think my favorite "moment of truth" was:

I have to agree with Treydog on all counts here. This has always been one of my fave chapters, although now broken into two chapters - Buffy's ability to negotiate, Ungarion's ability to ride the lines of amorality and still be likable, Buffy realizing her own limitations - and her ability to rationalize her actions when they suit - This is Buffy at her most Buffiness !!!!! I love this chapter (these chapters) !!!!

I would disagree with Buffy's use of black soul gems if it were not for my Argonain friend's collection of...artifacts. Nevertheless, the negotiations were intense and the final outcome was very nice. I love the feeling of finding/purchasing an item that you have searched for. More soon please.

What a girl wants, a girl needs. Once again, I simply love how you portray Ungarion as a rather amoral scoundrel. Not to mention a brilliant negotiator. He sort of reminds me of Rhett Butler, only not quite as debonair.

He then quoted a figure that made me grateful I didn't have a mouthful of wine.
This is a wonderful turn of phrase.

Ungarion's attempt to ply Buffy with ‘more wine’ before beginning negotiations is a classic maneuver. I am so glad that she didn’t fall for it.

Then he begins to flatter our Buffy while subtly hinting at knowledge that he could use to blackmail her. Villain!! Thankfully Buffy did not rise to the bait. The way she turned the tables on him reminded me curiously of Michael Corleone talking to Moe Greene . . . ‘take a few days, think of an offer.’

Unfortunately she blows it by giving in to him in the end. But a girl's gotta have what a girl's gotta have!

Once again, you've stolen the will from your readers and enthralled us with your tale.

Julian's nodding her head at this! Her advice to Buffy: STAY OUT!

Loved the rest of this wonderful rewrite. And yes, it's funny how they grow on the rewrites. It's much harder to prune a rose bramble than it is to get it to grow! But the beauty at the center of this chapter is well worthwhile!

I find myself singing Christina Aguilera's "What a girl wants, what a girl needs..."...



Now this is definitely a well crafted chapter! And, strange to say, I'm actually beginning to like that sneaky and suave Ungarion...


... do, DO write another suave role for him later in the story!!!

Chapter 29 found Buffy outmatched by the black market merchant, Ungarion. Nevertheless, she emerged with a pair of powerful detect life rings that she considers well-worth the considerable price.

treydog- I'm so pleased that you mentioned everything I was trying to do here. Buffy is all about loyalties to individuals, not organizations. If she does something for her guild, it is because of loyalty to the individual friend who asks, not loyalty to 'the guild'. Therefore, threat of being 'kicked out of her guild' did not carry the leverage perhaps Ungarion thought it might.

This will be important as it relates to that gate at Kvatch. Whatever she does will be driven by deep emotional ties to a very real individual, not 'the Empire' or some 'illegitimate heir' she has never met, or even the 'city of Kvatch'. She sees her world as individuals, not groups or organizations.

mALX- 'Buffy at her most Buffiness.' Oh my, we can think of no higher compliment! Thank you so much.

hazmick- Thank you. Buffy used one of the three black soul gems she created to enchant Slayer. She just surrendered the other two to Ungarion. I believe by the time she may actually need another grand soul, minotaur lords (whose grand souls conveniently fit inside Azura's Star) will walk Nirn. So, I don't think we need worry about her going all necro on us.

SubRosa- Thank you. I'm so glad Ungarion came across as I hoped he would!

Destri- Thank you. I so appreciate your observations. Yes, Buffy was clearly outmatched here; yet, I am proud of the few bright sparks she displayed. She will get better at verbal dueling.

Zalphon- Aww. Thanks Z!

Rider- Thank you for the beautiful support! Buffy will listen to Julian. That Oblivion Gate she saw scares her badly. Why won't the darn Legion close it? Surely no one could expect a skinny elf to try? Yet. . . she can't quite forget about the effect being up there had on her. . . and she did promise to go back - someday.

Foxy- Wow! That you are singing 'What a girl wants, what a girl needs', combined with liking Ungarion, means I have succeeded on all counts! I quite like him as well. Another appearance? Absolutely! The likeable old scoundrel will cause some trouble for the distant archery tournament.

All- As Buffy's new detect life rings join Slayer and Azura's Star in her inventory, it marks a milestone. She now carries all the trinkets a self-respecting mystic archer needs to survive. Of course, it will take our material girl another eight or so episodes (and several Daedra Lords) to realize it is courage, brains and skill - not more trinkets - that she needs.

In the meantime, we will jump to another storyline as Buffy negotiates a dark fork in her path. She has often seemed quick to creatively rationalize or justify her actions. How far she is willing to flirt with the lethal aspects of her nature is the subject of our next miniseries, consisting of four episodes. We call it 'Dancing with Darkness'.




The sun was well below the walls of Chorrol now, as I patiently waited for full darkness. I was behind The Gray Mare tavern preparing my equipment. This was going to be a one shot, instant kill. I could ill-afford for my arrow to leave enough breath in Earana's body for her to cry out. All my equipment had been chosen for this very purpose.

The black tunic blouse and darkened buckskins I wore would attract the shadows of concealment.

My primary bow, Slayer, was safely stored at the stables, along with my quiver, Superian's saddlebags and tack. From the hidden depths of my magic bag, I now slid out the full length of another grummite bow staff and strung it with a silk bowstring. The weapon had been especially enchanted for this purpose. It would drain Earana's life and add several types of damage - all in massive amounts, but only for a brief moment. The bow's single powerful charge had been easy to enchant with merely the life force of a mudcrab - I only intended to shoot it once.

I had to sell several enchanted items, and craft many potions to afford the single arrow I carried. Ungarion didn't reveal his source, and I didn't ask. It was one of two I had purchased. Its mate had been sacrificed to the Bravil archery target. I had wanted to ensure I was able to account for the extra weight of the arrow and precise twist to the fletching that allowed it to rotate in flight for increased long range accuracy. The black and reddish-gold magic arrow was perfectly straight and immensely powerful.

The thick liquid I now drizzled over the tip of my arrow came from a vial I had found in the knapsack of a bandit. It would ultimately do less damage than the poisons I could make, but had been chosen because it would release its full toxic effect instantly instead of over many seconds.

Finally, there was the spell I had recently created at the University for this occasion. Casting it would temporarily enhance my skills and abilities with a bow.

Everything was ready as the darkness of night slowly settled over Chorrol.

The decision to kill Earana was. . . complicated.

Given the confrontation between us that had marked my Chorrol guild recommendation, I fully believed she would kill me if given the chance. Each time I had subsequently visited Chorrol, the rogue mage's insults had made her lethal intentions clear - restrained only by the presence of the city guard. I feared Earana would prevail in a fair fight. I was merely influencing the inevitable towards my favor. Or so I tried to tell myself.

The truth however was perhaps simpler and darker. I hated Earana for threatening me, and I hated myself for being intimidated by her. I wasn't sure if what I was about to do was driven by cowardice, vengeance or preemptive self-defense. Likely, all of these things.

Stepping out from behind The Gray Mare, I could see the flickering lamps that lined the street up to the Great Oak. It was now dark enough to remain unseen.

Chorrol erupted with several pink glows as I slipped on the pair of rings that could detect life signs. I lifted my fist and released a spell that would extend my range across the entire city.

My attention was focused on the solitary glow near the Great Oak. From studying her movements over several days, I knew this was Earana. She would be alone for a few minutes while the guard made his predictable rounds.

I moved several paces to the spot I had chosen for its unobstructed view of my target area. After casting the spell to boost my abilities, I nocked the deadly, poisoned arrow and brought it to bear.

This was long range all right. I enhanced my focus, and pulled the Altmer into view. The wind was calm. No high obstacles would prevent the considerable aiming offset above her head that I would need. I was still unseen and wrapped in shadowy darkness. There were no nearby glows to see the arrow or hear the twang that my bowstring would release into the quiet night.

"Goodbye, Earana," I whispered.

At a well-practiced point in my breathing cycle, I paused. The fluid sequence that followed was the result of muscle memories developed through years of bow hunting. The bowstring came back to my ear, the arrow's tip found its final aim point well above Earana's head, and the fingers of my right hand that restrained the arrow uncurled.

The missile disappeared into the darkness of a high arc that would carry it across the city. After what seemed a breathless eternity, Earana was knocked from her feet. The pink glow quickly faded.

I very briefly had an ominous feeling - as if my actions had been observed by forces unknown. No time to think about that now Buffy. I quietly moved along the east wall to quickly offset myself from the line of flight my arrow had traveled.

A few minutes later, I emerged from behind a large boulder. Wearing a blue and green dress now, I carried no bow. It had taken several spells to completely disintegrate Earana's murder weapon.

I walked over to join a growing number of onlookers by the Great Oak.

My arrow was buried almost to its fletching in Earana's chest, and an expanding area of blood was darkening her green silk blouse. A guard, who had just arrived, was kneeling over the body. "There's been a murder! Did anyone see anything?" Those of us in the small group that had gathered, silently shook our heads in response. A pair of additional guards arrived and received orders from the one examining Earana. "Given the body's position, we have no idea where that arrow came from. Tell the gate posts to seal the entire city. I'll wait for Captain Bittneld to show up - I know he'll want this arrow as evidence." The two guards ran for the gates.

I seated myself on a bench under the Great Oak and smoothed my skirt. It had worked. All of it, just as planned. Sealing the city was fine by me; I had no intention of escaping. There was neither bow, quiver nor arrows in my possession. By volunteering to deliver some routine guild paperwork to the Chorrol chapter, I had the perfect cover. Within a couple days, Teekeeus would complete the roster of conjuration spells offered for sale by the Chorrol guild, and give me the forms for return to the University.

By now, the captain of the guard had arrived and more of his men were combing the city for an assassin. Several mages had gathered on the steps of the nearby guild, where I would spend the night. Tomorrow, I would walk the beautiful streets of Chorrol without fear of Earana.

Despite the considerable range, my arrow had not only found the Altmer, it had struck very nearly the center of her chest. I was proud of my skills. In fact I found using them for such a challenge downright exhilarating. I wasn't exactly happy about killing Earana though. Oh, I fully believed my survival had required this act of preemption. . . so why didn't I feel better about it?

I was still wrestling with this when I crawled into bed that night in the Chorrol guild. "Acadian, what's wrong with me? I'm so confused." He had been strangely quiet, as if trying to sort out my actions himself. A paladin would surely know about the things that were troubling me. "Can you help me?" I closed my eyes and opened my mind to him.

Humility. Righteousness. Protect the weak. Honor.

"What does all that have to do with me?" I scoffed. "There are no people who live by those things!"

The rebuke from Acadian came without hesitation, as he forced an image into my mind.

I remembered the incident - a wolf had surprised me long ago. Before I could draw my bow, the beast had closed the distance between us and leapt. The dark gray sanctuary of a heavy shield suddenly intercepted the wolf in midair. With one decisive thrust from a long sword, the animal was dead. The Legion soldier simply stated, "We're here to serve, citizen." Just as quickly he was gone.

Before I had time to fully reflect on this, another image formed. The scene was a memory that had been forever branded into my consciousness. Captain Savlian Matius was charging a Deadra as it emerged from the Oblivion Gate at Kvatch. He was selflessly risking his life to protect the survivors of his city, his men, and . . . even me.

I squirmed, feeling very small. I knew I could never be a paladin or soldier, but maybe I wasn't completely hopeless. "Acadian, you're right about humility. My skills are largely thanks to Daenlin and Boderi. I will try to be more humble. Honor and righteousness? I'm not sure I fully understand. I know I'm loyal to my friends and will fiercely defend them. I would lay down my life for Kud-Ei, City Swimmer, Daenlin, Superian or any of my friends. You know that. Doesn't that count for something?" I waited.

It did indeed.

"Protect the weak?" I continued. "But I am the weak! I need to kill to protect me. Look, I'm pretty fragile, as you well know. I'm also quite poor at defending myself when surprised or confronted at close range." I recalled several instances of barely surviving such encounters, and shuddered. "If I do the 'honorable' thing and wait for someone like Earana to attack first, I'll be dead. Then what would happen to you and Superian?"

By now, I was sitting up in bed. "In order to survive, I need to sometimes preemptively kill a known threat. Can you understand that? Would you let Earana live, and force me to timidly avoid the city of Chorrol? Or walk in fear, never knowing when I might fall to a fireball or lightning bolt? Don't you remember in Anvil, how that rogue mage, Caminalda, almost killed me with a single ice spell? Would you never seek out and destroy an enemy while they are plotting against you in their lair?" I closed my eyes again.

I sensed uncertainty, as the paladin pondered my basket of questions. Then acceptance.

"Thank you Acadian, for understanding." I sighed with relief. "I know my confused thinking is foreign to someone who is strong, brave and familiar with the ways of blades and steel. It's different when you're small and weak though. I may attack without warning from the shadows like a coward, but I'm alive. I really can't think of anyone else I can talk to about such things." I smiled grimly. "I can just see my friend Ardaline dropping her potions right on the floor of the Bravil guild if I asked her opinion about killing Earana."

I felt much better, and hopped out of bed before my thoughts could leave my head. Digging through my pack, I produced my journal supplies. Dipping quill into inkpot, I wrote:

'Sometimes it's necessary to kill someone if I'm convinced they're likely to harm me or my friends. I'm just not built for toe-to-toe fighting; if striking first, even from the shadows is what it takes to survive, so be it.'

Putting my journal away, I returned to bed. As I rolled over seeking sleep, I remembered that feeling I had earlier in the day. 'Observed by forces unknown?' What's that about, Buffy? I had no idea, but the heavy mantle of exhaustion was more pressing at the moment. I was sure I would sleep rather soundly - well, you know, for a murderess.


From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot



One additional combat multiplier Buffy used in her game for this assassination was switching from a bow to a dagger while her arrow was in flight. The damage multiplier for a sneak attack is based upon the type of weapon equipped when the arrow hits, not when it is launched. This allowed Buffy to enjoy a 6x melee damage multiplier instead of the normal 3x bow multiplier. Although she detailed this in BF 1.0, its logic defies even Buffy's impressive ability to rationalize, so we dropped it from BF 2.0. In keeping with the 'how to' minor aspect of her stories however, we opted to retain mention of it as a footnote. Here is the UESP wiki link that details this cumbersome quirk that can occasionally be useful for very long, planned shots.

I can relate to her "needing to kil before she is killed." Besides, good riddance of Eerana Save, kill Eerana, rinse, repeat FTW

The thick liquid I now drizzled over the tip of my arrow came from a vile

...vile...

...vile...


GOTCHA AGAIN Ole friend!!!

A Long, long time ago I caught you out in the 'vile' instead of 'vial" and now...


Hmmm.....

must resist, must resist....


AHH I can not stand it any more....



O.L.D. H.A.B.I.T.S. D.I.E. H.A.R.D!!!!!!

BWAAAHAA !!!! I got a sneak preview of the screenie in my email since I set myself as a follower of your photobucket !!!!!! BWAAAHAA !!!!

I got the feeling there were changes from the original in this one - making Buff more vulnerable? I have to go back and re-read the original to be sure, but either way - I like the vulnerability !!! Very feminine !!!

This brings to mind something a character in a drama I watched recently said:
"Killing is easy. Killing is so easy. What is hard is stepping all over the other person, and never letting anyone step all over you again."

Still, killing is something not to be taken lightly. I'm glad to see Buffy wrestling with the ethical considerations of her actions. Yes, it's good to see that *itch of an Altmer dead (she's just as rude to my PC in-game), and it's good that Buffy lived to enjoy Chorrol without her. But it does something to her spirit. Whether that's good or bad, it will take time to see.

I really liked this version so much better - it had smoother flow and just sang to me.

You really show Buffy leaving no stone unturned in her preparations to murder Earana. Using the best arrow she can buy (the rifling on the fletching was a good touch, a bow enchanted for just one shot, along with an instant damage poison. Finally, even a Fortify Markswoman spell. She is certainly not taking any chances! Not only do these things show how serious she is in the story, but they are also points to take note upon for people playing the game.

I very briefly had an ominous feeling - as if my actions had been observed by forces unknown.
Dum da dum dum!

Buffy does rationalize her actions quite thoroughly! Granted, she might have been right too... The greyness to the whole thing lends a strong aspect of believability to her character. Real people are rarely shining pictures of virtue. Everyone has their dark side. This is certainly Buffy's!

No Buffy, don't go to sleep! argh! sorry about that, i'm just excited about the next chapter is all.
This chapter was awesome, you really showed the tactics, preperation and wrestling with concience that Buffy had to go through before the deed could be done. Hoorah for Buffy and a brief pause for Earana, evil though she was.

While I might question Buffy about using a "preemptive strike" in other circumstances, not in these! It reminds me of an unwritten law in Texas (and I imagine other western states)- not that I generally hold Texas up as a moral compass...

Anyway, the situation was this a man was on trial for killing another man in a bar. The dead man had come in and "made his brag" (I'm Joe Badd-Boat and I can whip any man in the bar). The defendant shot him. His defense? "He needed killing." The defendant was acquitted.

If anyone "needed killing," it was Earana. Preferably frequent and painful killing.

Athlain certainly understands this sort of rationalizing....



And that is the point that makes me very certain of Buffy's heart. She can take pride in her skill, while recognizing the consequences of the act. She is not a heartless executioner who then goes off to have a hearty meal.



Buffy's halo may be a bit tarnished and a tad crooked, but she has one just the same.

This chapter really bothers me. On the one hand I can sympathize with Buffy’s rationalization for killing Earana. On the other hand, Earana wasn’t some ‘vile creature’ plotting Buffy’s doom in her lair. She was a living, breathing individual whose only crime that I could see was ticking Buffy off. Who gave Buffy the right to pass judgment on her? It doesn’t matter if Earana's threats intimidated Buffy. It doesn’t matter if Buffy felt that Earana would kill her if given the chance. The only thing that matters is the act, and the act is premeditated murder.

But none of that constitutes what bothers me. What bothers me is that I was rooting for Buffy to succeed! During your wonderful and detailed description of Buffy’s preparations I kept thinking ‘I hope this works.’ When she strung her bow and sighted for that impossibly long shot, I sighted right along with her. When she described the control of breath born of practice and muscle memory, I held my breath too. And when that fateful missile hit home and Earana’s spark faded, I breathed a sigh of relief. Her exhilaration after the fact was echoed in me, and I could see why Acadian would choose to confine his comments to the pointing out of the more positive aspects of chivalry.

I can’t bring myself to condone what Buffy has done, but I can’t find it in my heart to condemn her either.

That is what bothers me, and I am grateful to you for it.

Buffy, how could you kill another living being? You make me so dissapointed.

Acadian give me a hug, it's wonderful.

Chapter 30 was the first of four episodes comprising Buffy's miniseries, 'Dancing with Darkness'. The rogue mage Earana had threatened Buffy during several visits to Chorrol, dating back to her University recommendation. Buffy became convinced of Earana's lethal intent. She carefully planned and executed a preemptive assassination of Earana.

Remko- Thank you for understanding Buffy's perspective. What do you do if Earana has threatened your life and you believe she can and will kill you. . . but has not launched an attack or broken any law? Buffy does not make threats unless she plans to follow through on them; she assumed Earana operated the same way, and responded accordingly. Was Earana all bluff? Or did she simply threaten the wrong wood elf? We'll never really know perhaps. Buffy will never lay claim goodness, merely loyalty to her friends and a strong survival instinct.

Foxy- Vile vs vial. I remember well. In fact it was even in my mind during this chapter. Too much editing. Pouring the vile liquid from the vial. Then just using a vial. Then just drizzling the thick vile liquid. Then, argh! Ok. Those vile little vials will get a chance to kick our butt again in two more chapters. We'll try to do better!

mALX- Thank you so much mALX. You understand Buffy well. She has tried very hard to teach me the foreign concept of how it feels to be small, weak and vulnerable. That perspective strongly shapes her response to threats.

Rider- Thank you for sharing in Buffy's feelings as she wrestled with her controversial choice. She has no idea if she did the right thing, and I don't think she is completely done processing it yet.

SubRosa- Once again, you highlight everything I am trying to do here. Cold and very detailed premeditated preparations. Inadvertently triggering a likely nocturnal visit from you know who. Trying to wrestle and rationalize her way through a very grey area.

Although I have come to understand Buffy well, presenting her complex nature properly can be a challenge for my humble skills. When you, so long ago, coined her as 'cuddly, like a rattlesnake' you let me know I was close to the mark in accurately displaying her character. As you say, like so many of us, she is not good, nor is she evil. She is simply a young and imperfect elf trying to survive in a dangerous land. Thank you.

hazmick- Thanks for endorsing Buffy's preparations. In the next episode, Buffy will loiter in Chorrol dealing with unfinished business - some of it quite surprising.

treydog- Thank you for sticking with our bowgirl as she wrestles with her darker side and tries to learn how it fits into her swirling, still unformed 'code of conduct'. 'Dancing with Darkness' will be very formative for her I expect.

Her closing line ('I was sure I would sleep rather soundly - well, you know, for a murderess.') is more tongue in cheek and foreshadowing than perhaps it sounds. In Oblivion, one's invitation to join the Dark Brotherhood opens with the dialogue: 'You sleep rather soundly, for a murderer."

Destri- Buffy is quite conflicted and will become more so. To see that her choices and actions had the same effect on you is very gratifying. It seems that over the course of time, our flawed and confused bowgirl may have wormed her way into your heart. If so, you may be assured that I know the feeling well. On one hand. . . but on the other hand. . . but, oh my . . . she doesn't have enough hands to sort it all out - yet. Dancing with Darkness, indeed.

Zalphon- Lol! How could she kill someone? Well, first she puts poison on her arrow. Then she nocks it, then. . . . Buffy simply assumed that Earana meant her threats, and responded accordingly. Thank you Zalphon!




"Hail, Buffy. Isn't it a beautiful morning?" Nardhil looked up from grooming the chestnut gelding. As I craned my head to see around the horse's powerful hindquarters, the pretty Dunmer quickly added, "Don't worry, Superian's fine. She missed you though. Here she comes."

My mare wandered out the open corral gate and approached, nodding her head. I buried my face in her neck before remembering my manners. "I'm sorry Nardhil. I just missed her, with the city sealed up for the past few days. I'm grateful for you looking after her."

The Dunmer swept an errant lock of black hair from her face and paused to rest both hands on her hips. "Isn't that murder business just awful? The guards were out here asking me all about who belonged to the half dozen or so visiting horses. This morning when they unsealed the gates, I had just as many angry travelers and merchants out here to collect their mounts and depart - as if it was my fault their travels had been delayed here in Chorrol." She placed a hand on my shoulder and smiled. "I'm glad for at least one friendly face this morning, and relieved that Superian's elf was not harmed."

"Oh, it was awful inside the city," I said, widening my eyes. "We couldn't leave of course. The guards wanted to know everything about everyone. I'm surprised they didn't ask my dress size. I mean, it delayed my business for the guild too," I shrugged, "but what can you do?"

"Well, I think they're wasting their time." Nardhil led the chestnut into the corral. She then returned, patted Superian on the shoulder, and began raking up recent horse droppings. "But do those guards care what I think? Nooo. They just ask me a bunch of stupid questions about harmless merchants and innocent wood elves. From what I hear, whoever killed that high elf was a real pro. Sounds like the Dark Brotherhood to me. The assassin probably just slipped right over the city walls within seconds of doing his job. Mark my words, he's laughing in another county by now."

"You really think the Dark Brotherhood did this?" I probed, stifling a wince as I recalled my recent visit from Lucien Lachance.

"Sure they did. That high elf, Earana?" Nardhil switched from her rake to a shovel, "Quite the snoot, that one. She treated me like I was. . . this." A large shovelfull of manure plopped into the waiting wheelbarrow.

The Dunmer paused, leaning on her shovel. "And what a temper! Why, one time she was walking by the stables with her Altmeri nose so high that she slipped on some horse manure and fell. She jumped to her feet, and started screaming about her ruined silks and how incompetent I was." Nardhil's red eyes flashed with what looked like both fear and anger. "I had to dive for the ground to miss the fireball she threw. Thankfully, before she could cast another spell, the guard on duty at the gate ran over and pressed his blade to her throat."

Nardhil gazed into the barn, as if remembering the incident. "Oh, Earana had plenty of enemies, all right. Perhaps she finally threatened someone who had a temper that matched hers."

I squirmed inside at her words, but I was pretty sure the discomfort didn't show on my face. Just to be safe, I reached down and began inspecting Superian's hooves as I replied, "Well, that was the word inside the walls too. It seems half the city had reason to kill Earana. Aside from the arrow they recovered from her body, and too many suspects with motive, I guess the guards don't have much to go on."

"I'm just glad they're done playing their games, locking down the city and questioning everyone. They'll never catch who did this. Just like the murder of that monk down the road."

"Monk?" Superian's feet were fine. I stood up straight and met Nardhil's red eyes. "What happened?"

"Oh, some fellow named Jeffrey or Joe Frye or some such got himself killed. Silly monks. It's bad enough being outside the gates, but at least the stables have the nearby guard to keep an eye on us. Those monks live in a priory away from the city where no one can protect them." The dark elf smirked. "Lots of good their precious Talos did them. Anyway, I figure it was bandits because the guards that went to investigate said the dead monk's locked chest had been broken into and was empty. Apparently the other monks had no idea what was in the chest, so they couldn't even provide a list of what was stolen."

"Bandits?"

"Sure. You travel a lot Buffy. You know how ruthless they are. Simple robbery. That monk probably woke up and surprised them. I mean, I guess they don't know for sure. It happened at night and the other members of the priory didn't see anything, but what else could it have been?"

"Nardhil, do you remember when this happened?"

"It was quite some time ago." She rubbed her chin for a moment. "Let's see, you've been here on several occasions. . . oh, I remember now. It happened about the time you first introduced me to that beautiful mare of yours."

"That was my first visit here. In fact, I recall stopping at Weynon Priory to deliver a package when I was trying to earn a recommendation for the University. The monk called Jauffre was rude, and we even had words at the time. He was healthy enough when I left though."

"Oh my," said Nardhil. "He must have gotten himself killed shortly after you met him. We all just kind of forgot about it. I don't even think the Black Horse Courier carried the story." The Dunmer shrugged. "It was only the murder of Earana that made me think of it. Say, how did all those recommendations you were after go anyway? Did you get into the University?"

"Yes." I blushed with a smile. "I just graduated recently."

Nardhil's hands went back to her hips and she beamed. "Well congratulations, Buffy. I can see from your pack though, that you must be ready to travel. Here, let me help you."

After we gathered my saddlebags, bow, quiver and tack from the barn, the Dunmer helped me saddle Superian.

Nardhil dragged a hand across her brow to wipe the moisture that was beginning to glisten in the morning sun. "Next time you're up this way, we'll have to share a bottle."

"Thank you," I said, nodding my agreement. I pressed several more gold coins into her hand than Superian's care required. "Yes, when I pass through again, I'd be honored to buy you dinner at The Oak and Crosier."

"Deal. Safe travels, sister. Where are you and that fine mare headed, anyway?"

With a foot in the stirrup, I bounced up and swung into the saddle. "Well, I have to courier some documents back to the Arcane University." Turning Superian out onto the Black Road, I added over my shoulder, "Then I'm supposed to meet someone at one of the inns south of the Imperial City on my way home to Bravil."

As Weynon Priory came into view, I thought about Jauffre. It seemed the monk had been killed right after I met him. I gathered that the Amulet of Kings had been stolen as well. I wondered if Jauffre had told his Blades about an heir?

Should I talk with the monks? Superian drew to a stop. I placed both hands on the pommel and stared at the stone buildings.

Remembering how I stormed out of the Priory, they might figure I was the one who killed Jauffre. I didn't need that, especially after just putting an arrow through Earana's black heart. I had delivered the Amulet of Kings only because the Emperor and Baurus had been kind to me. It wasn't my fault that the monks apparently lost it. I owed them nothing.

Besides, no one except the Emperor could wear the amulet anyway. I wasn't sure I believed what Jauffre had told me about an illegitimate heir. If it had been true, why would he ask a little wood elf to go fetch the next Emperor instead of sending all his Blades? No, I figured he just wanted to get me out of his balding hair. Well, fine. He succeeded on that count.

What did Jauffre say the heir's name was? Oh yes, I remembered the details. It didn't matter though. There was no priest named Martin in the Kvatch encampment. Savlian had described how deadly the fighting in the streets had been, as screaming people tried to flee. Those who didn't make it to freedom, before the Oblivion Gate outside the walls sealed Kvatch, had been trapped. How could anyone caught inside that burning city with bloodthirsty Daedra possibly still be alive after all this time? I shuddered.

Sensing my decision, Superian slowly continued south towards the Imperial City.

I slipped on my pair of powerful detect life rings, and scanned the forest that flanked both sides of the road ahead of us. It was a beautiful morning with birds chirping high in the branches above us. My new rings had proven themselves during our recent travels. They gave me the ability to see life signs from the saddle before threats became aware of Superian and I. We were confidently able to bypass hostile glows, or stop and preemptively deal with them.

Leaning forward to pet the mare, I said, "We'll get you a brief visit with Thernd and Bandit while I drop off these documents at the University. Then we'll continue to the Inn of Ill Omen."

I took a pull from my water bag. "Oh, quit worrying, Acadian. Lucien was very kind to me. He said there was a whole family of caring brothers and sisters waiting to welcome and love me - just as soon as I completed an initiation task for him. I'm sure whatever this Rufio fellow did must have been really bad. Otherwise Lucien wouldn't want him killed, would he?"

From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

I loved this new chapter, but was surprised to hear the rumor of Jauffre's passing. Of course, it would be an effective way for him to disappear with the illegitimate heir, especially after the Amulet was stolen. Intriguing plot twist there!

The guilt Buffy is feeling over Earana's death - well, not the death itself, but more her involvement in it - rang true. Knowing that her actions are defined as a capital crime can be scary, but it shows courage on her part that she went ahead with it. Yes, she took Earana's threats seriously, and acted accordingly. Now she has to live with the consequences. That too, takes courage. I have no doubt that our little blond wood elf has plenty of it. Her character (or cojones, as I prefer to think of it) is larger than her body, as it should be.

So she fell for the line of the family of brothers and sisters waiting for her. Geez, how many suckers did Lucien Lachance reel in with that? It's got to be the worst pick up line in the history of Cyrodiil!

You've got so much foreshadowing in this chapter it makes my head spin!!!!! This is HUGE!!! I see Kvatch = Matias, Cheydinhal = DB - just to begin with !!!! And Jauffre dead? OOOOOOOOHH!!!!! This is a HUGE chapter Acadian !!!!

Here is a line that had me laughing out loud:




ROFL !!!! Poor Buffy! Just when she almost had it rationalized that Earana was despicable and needed killing! ROFL!!!

Jauffre dead!? never saw that coming, you handled it well. Buffy doesn't seem to be struggling with Earana's murder, I suppose she was a mean person.

I disagree with Haute slightly, the DB is a loving family! Ocheeva and Teinava are nice Argonian's--even Vincente is a kind person. Super Duper!!

Thinking along this lines might mean Edmu- er.. Edward's asssessment that they are in fact prostitutes being the correct one.... hmm...... He wasn't recruiting assassins but something different altogether....

Loved the dialogue between the Dunmer and Buffy.

As a sidenote; why do I get the distinct feeling the words "powerful hinduarters" were a substitute for something less flattering?

Nardhil's tale about Earana made me laugh, until the part about the fireballs! Yikes! That really does a good job of reinforcing the danger that Earana did present to Buffy. A bit of reassurance that it was not all in her mind.

It looks like you have pushed up some events in the Oblivion Crisis. Jauffre dead, his chest broken into (and I presume the Amulet of Kings stolen). I kind of wonder if it was the Mythic Dawn, or Lucien Lachance who did it!

I enjoyed Buffy's discussion with Nardhil. It brings us up to speed on everything that has happened, and does it in a way that naturally flows from dialogue. At the same time it adds more depth to a supporting character, and also shows us one of the many relationships that Buffy has with the stablehands across Cyrodiil.

At first, I was a little disoriented when Buffy did not detail the meeting with Lucien. But the more I thought about it, the more sense it made. As Athlain will discover, it is not wise to record everything that happens in your journal. You may intend it to be private, but that does not mean someone else won't read it... I also think she feels ambivalent about the meeting- and is trying to ignore her misgivings. Finally, from purely the writer's POV, it is a scene that is familiar to anyone who has ever been "contacted" by the DB.

Having information come out through conversation was a wonderful touch- it allowed for much more "showing, not telling."

Earana's short fuse being revealed should give Buffy some solace- especially as it turns out the unlamented Altmer attacked one of Buffy's friends.

The apparent death of Jauffre and Buffy's reaction to it go a long way towards showing her personality. She did as Baurus and the Emperor asked- and she gave Blades Grandmaster exactly as much courtesy and respect as he gave her. It also shows that events are continuing with the Crisis, even as Buffy seems to feel unconnected from them...

I think Buffy will discover soon enought that Lucien's smooth words mask a darkness she will NOT embrace. Her morality may be "flexible," but there are lines she will not cross.

Given that rationale, I hope she never meets Alval Uvani!

Are you kidding? She had me at . . .


Now, as for this chapter:
For the first time, I think you may have put a foot wrong here, my friend. The thing that made Buffy’s assassination of Earana so arresting was the fact that none of us (Buffy included) really knew if Earana deserved her fate. Having Nardhil paint Earana as a fireball-throwing harpy who just needed to die blunts the shock of Buffy’s actions and lifts her out of the darkness that you wanted her to ‘dance’ with. It is indeed a difficult thing to explore the darker aspects of a character we have grown to love and admire. Even when we have darkness flooding through our story our tendency is to build a platform upon which our hero can stand without getting his/her feet wet.

Now for the rest . . . news of Jauffre’s passing is surprising. I think Buffy is not seeing the forest if she does not detect a correlation between Jauffre’s death, his desire to have her find Martin in Kvatch, and the fate that has befallen Kvatch. Events are swirling all around her, yet she is too locked into the idea of a ‘family’ to notice. That speaks so eloquently to the complexity of her character that it renders me (almost) speechless!

The shot that was heard around the world. Well, across the Pacific pond, at least.


Yeah, it is a very tough thing how to portray a character that is honest to both them and the writer (and not to mention the readers) lol. I, for one, have never seen Buffy as a knight. She has always given me the impression of one who marches to her own drummer. In D&D she is what we would call a 'classic' Chaotic Good alignment.

Buffy is a strong individualist marked by a streak of kindness and benevolence, she believes in all the virtues of goodness and right, but has little use for the laws and regulations that support it. Her actions are guided by her own moral compass, and are rarely in agreement with the rest of society.

Her connection to the DB (and acceptance of Aradroth) in BF 1.0 was an indication of that.

Acadian, never feel that you need to justify our little Buffy, those things mean very little in the grand plans that she sees for herself.

Chapter 31 was 'Dancing with Darkness', episode two of four. The city of Chorrol was opened from 'lockdown' after the murder of Earana, and Buffy made preparations to leave. She learned that Jauffre, from nearby Weynon Priory had been murdered almost immediately after receiving the Amulet of Kings from Buffy. It seems that perhaps the Amulet was stolen as well. Buffy dismissed the information and implications, assuming that if there had been an heir living in Kvatch(which she questioned) he would not have survived the Daedra attack. It seems she is now headed to the Inn of Ill Omen to see a man named Rufio.

Rider- Buffy asked me, that since she refused to go fetch Martin, why would not Jauffre dispatch his Blades to do it? It seems she just found out why. Admittedly, Jauffre's death is one of several steps we will take to enhance (as best we can) the believability of delaying Kvatch so long. Thanks for your wonderful words about Buffy's cojones (heehee). Buffy is a young orpahan, and you are right that her naivete is on display regarding the allure of a family of loving brothers and sisters; Lucien certainly knew which button to push.

mALX- Thank you so much! I am so pleased that, while your head is spinning, you trust me to deliver some clarity before this miniseries concludes. My intent at this point is to have readers wondering.

hazmick- Buffy will grow to accept the killing of Earana as necessary, and something she would do again if required. She will explain some more about her desire for a 'loving family' in the final two episodes.

Remko- Thanks for the kind words about Buffy's scene with the Dunmer stablehand, Nardhil. I was hoping to show that Buffy is merely a small part of her complex world.

SubRosa- Thank you. My intent was to open this miniseries with the shocking coldness of Buffy's assassination in part one. In part two, I was hoping to reveal, after the fact, that Buffy's instincts about Earana were correct. While Buffy recognizes it as premeditated murder, she will also embrace the resolve to repeat such an act if preemption and vengeance so require. In Buffy's world it represents the lighter side of gray that she deems essential to keep her butterfly butt alive. Her true dance with the darker end of the spectrum occurs in this very next chapter. My intent is to portray what Buffy encounters at the Inn of Ill Omen in challenging shades of gray as well. Alas, no easy or black and white decisions for this girl.

treydog- Thank you! Yes, we made some significant choices in this episode and I am so glad to have earned the endorsement of your wise old doggie eyes.

Lucien: What to present on or off camera is the stuff of hard choices indeed. Admittedly, I am trying to manage the length of Buffy's saga to some degree by not presenting a Lucien Lachance scene. My hope is that references to him in both of the final two episodes will flush out what is needed. I truly hope you will enjoy the emotional roller coaster that is this next episode.

Jauffre: As a simple elf from Bravil, Buffy is quite ignorant regarding 'affairs of state'. As surely as her eyes glazed over when Uriel Septim was discussing 'Emperor stuff' way back in the Imperial Prison, she figures that sorting out who is in charge of the empire and how to run it, are matters for nobles who understand such things. I will not be surprised to see Buffy begin to grow beyond that simple understanding as she travels and gains experience. Any involvement she may have in the Main Quest however, will be triggered by individuals she holds precious, not by vague concepts like 'the empire'.

Destri- To say that Buffy captured your heart in Chapter one of her original story brought tears to our eyes. Thank you, my friend.

Regarding Buffy's Dance with Darkness, I hope that I am working from the unfair advantage of seeing all four episodes laid before me and knowing what is coming. To dance with darkness requires both light and dark. In Buffy's world of hiding in the shadows, we mean light gray vs dark gray of course. Earana's death, believe it or not, represents the light (well, lighter gray anyway). It is a decision she will grow to embrace without apology, and be quite ready to repeat if/when necessary. It will become a part of her true nature. What Lucien is asking her to do represents the dark (well, a darker gray anyway). I hope to present the choice Buffy will face in this next episode as darker than Earana, but still very gray. I assure you that the choice Buffy makes when faced with Rufio will be . . . gray.

Wolf- I am so pleased you dropped in, for no dance with the DB would be complete without your oversight. Thank you for the soothing words. Buffy's moral compass exists in the shadows, just as she fights. She would sacrifice herself for her horse, yet cruelly torture the highwayman who would swing an axe at that same precious mare. She will grow a great deal in the next two episodes.




By the light of several flickering candles, I studied how the tail of the arrow in front of my right cheek fit to the partially drawn silk bowstring of Slayer. My eyes slowly trailed along the shaft of the arrow as it passed the junction of my left hand and bow staff. Moving ever so slightly up and down with my breathing, was the broadhead tip of that arrow - centered on the sleeping Rufio.

The stirrings of concern I felt from Acadian, rippled from my head to my heart and were not making things any easier. He didn't understand.

I started to draw full tension on the bowstring, but just as with my two previous attempts, I stopped. Gently easing all tension off the bow, I returned the arrow to my quiver. Standing in the basement of the Inn of Ill Omen, I now stared at the sleeping Breton. Lucien Lachance had told me that killing Rufio would complete my initiation into the arms of loving brothers and sisters who were waiting for me.

A Family.

I don't know if you can truly appreciate a family unless you don't have one. I never knew my father before he disappeared. My mother died when I was twelve, and I was an only child. Many were the nights I cried myself to sleep wishing I had brothers and sisters who loved, or even picked on me - just someone I could belong to and who would accept me. Lucien said this new family would welcome me into their loving embrace. I longed so much for that. He had even presented the gift of a beautiful dagger to demonstrate the love of my new family.

That's why I was trying so hard to kill Rufio. Unlike others I had killed though, Rufio was no threat to me. He was a complete stranger. What did he do that would make Lucien want him dead?

On the nightstand next the sleeping Breton were some of his belongings: a broken quill, two septims, a half-eaten apple, a piece of parchment and an amulet. I moved closer to examine them.

The parchment was actually an article cut from the Black Horse Courier. It told of the unsolved rape and murder of a young woman named Idonis Arcadia. The crime had taken place recently in the Imperial City.

The amulet glowed softly with some form of enchantment as I picked it up by the delicate gold chain. Turning it in my hand, I saw the back was engraved:

'For my sweet Idonis on her sixteenth birthday. Your loving father.'

Narrowing my eyes, I moved closer and nudged Rufio with the toe of my boot. I then stepped back, ready to paralyze him if necessary.

The Breton jumped from his bed in surprise. "Who are you? What do you want? I ain't done nothin'!"

I quickly agreed with Lucien's description of Rufio as weak. Perhaps some threatening would get him to enlighten me. "Oh, but I think you have, Rufio." I nodded my head towards the items on the nightstand.

Rufio's beady eyes darted to the incriminating evidence, then shot a glance over my shoulder towards the door behind me.

Reading his intent, I added, "Don't try. I've locked it."

His eyes then jumped to Slayer, before finally stopping their travels to stare at the ominous green glow gently pulsing in my right hand. "N-no! Please! I didn't mean to do it, you understand me? She struggled! I-I told her to just stay still, but she wouldn't listen! I had no choice!"

"Blaming the victim, are you?" Perhaps he would tell me more if I emphasized just how much danger he was in. I allowed the magic in my hand to fade, then slid an arrow from my quiver and took one step back. "Would you like to try attacking me?" Yes, self-defense would be a lovely excuse to kill this wormy man.

"Oh, please, no! I can pay you! Name your price! Anything! Anything! Please, just let me live!"

My response was to fit the arrow's nock to my bowstring.

Separated from me by the bed, Rufio cowered into the corner.

The pathetic Breton wasn't going to make my decision any easier by defending himself.

He must have killed this Idonis Arcadia. The victim's father probably asked for Lucien's help to set things right. I fought to dispel images of Rufio leering over a young girl. My skin crawled and stomach churned into a knot as I imagined the fear, helplessness and violation she must have felt. Then rage welled up within me.

As the bowstring came back to my ear, my fingers should have instinctively uncurled. They did not. I just stood, staring at the quaking man over the tip of my arrow.

Buffy, is this the path you choose?

The paladin was right. He knew why I had paused. As my arm began to quiver from holding full tension on the bow, I reluctantly eased the tail of my arrow forward.

Now what, Buffy? As I stared at the cowering Breton whose fate was in my hands, a plan formed.

I slid the arrow over my shoulder to rejoin its companions, then filled my hand with magic. As the spell hit Rufio, he became rigid, falling to the floor. I spoke, surprised at the coolness in my voice. "I know you can hear me; you just can't move. When you recover, you will climb onto the bed, lie perfectly still on your back and do exactly as I say. If you do not, I will paralyze you again, then pierce your heart with an arrow."

After a few seconds, Rufio was able to move. He clambered from the floor to the bed and dutifully lay upon his back, eyes wide.

I rubbed my glowing fingers together and continued. "Did I make myself clear?"

Rufio looked up at me from the bed. "Y-yes, milady. Whatever you say. Please just don't hurt me."

"I am not your lady, Rufio. And yes, you will indeed do exactly as I say."

I shouldered Slayer and reached into my pack. Passing over the dagger Lucien had given me, I pulled out a pair of a green vials. I then unsheathed my hunting knife and coated the blade. "Just lie still. If you struggle, I will have to kill you. Since those are the same instructions you gave young Idonis Arcadia, they should be easy for you to follow."

Rufio's eyes were like saucers overflowing with fear, but he didn't move.

I dragged the blade of my knife down one of his forearms, drawing blood and allowing the poison to enter his body. I then reached for the second green vial and repeated the process.

As I waited for the emerald tinge of Rufio's skin to return to its pale Bretonic color, I calmly said, "Neither your wounds nor these poisons will kill you. The toxins coursing inside you however will damage your speed to the point you cannot move. You will remain so until someone - I expect a healer from the Imperial Prison - fixes you."

Cleaning my knife on Rufio's shirt, I continued, "Cheer up. Things could be worse; my blade could have strayed into your pants." I slid the weapon home into its sheath. Turning towards the nightstand, I carefully arranged the incriminating Courier article and amulet so they would easily be found.

"Since you can't move and have plenty of time, you might reflect on just how it feels to be helpless and vulnerable. Oh, and you might also hope that the Legion finds you before a hungry rat does. I understand the smell of blood can sometimes attract them, and with you being unable to move and all. . . ."

I turned to leave, casting a spell to free the lock's tumblers. "Farewell, Rufio." I closed the door behind me.

As I reached the ladder beneath the basement's trapdoor, I paused. "Acadian, Rufio's an evil man. I don't suppose the Dark Brotherhood is a family that exacts justice against those who have eluded it?"

You were born in the morning, Child of Dawn - but not this morning.

I sighed. "You're right. It would be too naïve - even for me - to expect my assignments would involve exacting justifiable vengeance. Rufio almost fit that, you know. I wanted to believe. . . ." I stirred the dust on the floor with the toe of my boot. "I allowed my desire for the loving family that Lucien promised to push my judgment aside, didn't I? Even though I might have been able to rationalize that Rufio deserved to die by my hand, I know I would be asked in the future to kill innocent people without even knowing the reason. I can't do that. I guess I wouldn't make a very good assassin."

I reached for the ladder, but then stopped again and added, "Acadian, you know I will kill to protect myself and those I love - I have readily done so before and make no apology for it. I'm not proud of murdering Earana, but I have no regrets and would do it again if necessary. I know she would have tried to kill me - and succeeded had I not preempted her. Rufio was different though. He was no threat to me. Whatever he did is best handled by the Legion. My killing is not for hire, and the Dark Brotherhood is not the family I seek."

I'm proud of you, my bowgirl.

I smiled faintly as I grasped the ladder to climb upstairs. "Thank you, my paladin. I need you right now. I feel kind of empty, like I just abandoned a family I never had."

Closing the trap door to the basement behind me, I looked around the main floor of the inn. The Redguard, Minerva was slouched in a chair at one of the tables, deep in her cups. A small fire crackled, providing much of the dim light that flickered across the walls.

Manheim Maulhand was behind the bar. The publican had always been nice to Daenlin and I whenever we stopped here during hunting trips. City Swimmer had told me he could be trusted, and that she sometimes sold stolen goods to him. He had directed me to Rufio, and I was confident the innkeeper's silence could be bought if necessary. "Hail, milady." The Nordic voice boomed effortlessly across the small inn. "What can old Manheim do for you?"

I climbed onto a barstool and looked up at him. "Perhaps some Tamika's wine, please?"

"Sure, milady. I take it your, uh, meeting with Rufio didn't cause any problems?" He filled a stone cup and placed it before me. Before continuing, he lowered his voice even though I suspected Minerva was oblivious to our conversation. "Buffy, you know your secrets are always safe with me."

I smiled at his cheerful discretion. "And I appreciate that, Maneheim. Rufio cannot help me find what I seek. He does need to talk to the Legion though. Do you know when Riveus, that handsome Imperial Forrester assigned to County Bravil, will stop by on his rounds?"

The Nord swept the low ceiling with his eyes and rubbed his chin for a moment. "Well, it's been several days, so I'd expect to see him on the morrow or perhaps the day after. He usually fills up on S'jirra's potato bread up the road, then stops here for some target practice and an ale."

I placed a large pile of gold coins on the bar and leaned closer to Manheim, allowing the front of my brown blouse to fall open a bit. "Can you do a couple favors for me?" I smiled sweetly and batted my eyelids like City Swimmer taught me.

Manheim's eyes went to the stack of gold first, then traveled down the front of my blouse, seemingly ignoring my fluttering eyelids. "Of course, milady. Whatever you need."

"Rufio is not hurt, but he is indisposed. I want you to make sure no one goes into the basement until Riveus arrives. When the Forrester does get here, I need you to make sure he goes downstairs and talks with Rufio right away. Will you do those things for me, please?"

Manheim's gaze traced a path from inside my blouse up to finally meet my eyes. "Of course, Buffy. And shall I tell Riveus you had a role in this?"

Smiling, I lifted the cup of Tamika's. "I'll leave tonight, as soon as I finish this. I was never here."

From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

Murder to protect yourself or a loved one is a lighter shade of grey than murder for hire. I'm glad Buffy made the choice she did, and I think she'll find it easier to live with herself now that she can't turn back.

And justice will come for Rufio.

I love how Buffy is learning to pick and choose her family - she already has one in the Bravil chapter of the Mages Guild, and doubtlessly she will find more members elsewhere.

You can't help the family you're born with, but you can choose the family you make.

HAH- Death was too easy for that no good piece of horse manure anyway. For a moment I was thinking she was gonna get eeuhmm.. -surgical on parts he WOULD miss when she paralyzed him.

Well handled Buffy!