Tissues! GAAAAH! These last two Matias chapters are great examples of a man getting into a woman's head to write! Awesome Acadian !!!

I read about that day on another forum, and I followed your link to catch up with Buffy here. It still gives me a tear.

A delicate scene in front of an Oblivion gate with fresh blood on the ground. You made my day.

When Buffy starts to doubt herself, hopefully she will remember that the Captain of the Guard cupping her face in his hand has nothing to do with new spells or venison!

Thanks again for explaining Acadian. The pauldron was just a joke, and I played Morrowind which did include pauldrons.

Pity Buffy is leaving Kvatch again. Not sure what she's going to do but I guess we'll see at some point. First to Leyawiin I say, let's not forget that.

Was teaching my guild mate a helpful spell and delivering her to Savlian Matius wise?
I love Buffy's natural jealousy! She would be a fool not to feel at least a twinge of doubt, under the circumstances.

Can't you see I'm not doing it for Kvatch, you beautiful, dumb man?
I am sure he cannot!

Very sweet! A wonderful portrayal of Buffy's warring emotions: On one hand her desire to stay near the man she loves, and on the other her need to leave so that she can finish her work, and thusly return to end the siege for once and all.

Now I am also wondering what is going to happen to that lock of Buffy's hair that Salvian will find/has found stuck in his armor?

You have an in-act skill for romanticism Acadian. Excellent work! I think we've all been there, be if we're a man or women, wanting to be closer to the one you secretly love, wondering if they truly love you back, and want to be closer to you. Excellent reading, I love Buffy's story. Keep up the amazing work!

Gaius Rulician’s influence is felt even at the gates of Kvatch. There is a nice and proper symmetry to the idea that the selfless act of a legionary will help save the lives of those manning the barricade in Kvatch.

Buffy may have stopped herself from screaming at Savlian, but she could not hold back the Freudian slip:

Buffy, why do you always have issues with authority? *looks at Uriel* Your Higness, she'll bite your head off...

In Chapter 53, Buffy concluded her visit to Kvatch with the understanding that she would continue to seek and refine assistance for Savlian Matius. Despite Buffy's skittishness, and Savlian's single-minded focus on Kvatch, the two spirits do indeed seem drawn to each other.

Rider- I'm humbled and honored that you were able to feel what Buffy felt. That I was able to share her emotions with you makes my heart sing. Thank you for your beautiful words.

mALX- I'm simultaneously sorry and overjoyed that you needed tissues for these last two chapters - if that makes sense. I find Buffy's emotions quite complex and somewhat difficult to understand. Fortunately, she is not at all shy about sharing them with me. Indeed, seeing Tamriel through her eyes and heart has been quite the eye-opener. Thank you.

Grits- Thank you so much for joining us, and a hearty welcome to this wonderful forum! You are very insightful! Buffy will of course have doubts about her feelings, and the memory of Savlian's hand upon her face will indeed help bring her back.

Casper- Spot on you are, my friend! She does indeed have that Sanguine quest to prosecute. Buffy does few things in a straightforward manner, but she is definitely working her way to Leyawiin - after a couple more brief side trips (of course).

SubRosa- Thank you for your kind words and for endorsing Buffy's confusing emotions. I had no doubt that lock of hair would trigger your interest. Let's file the memory away for several dozen episodes, then celebrate with some Tamika's when we see it again.

Grizzly- I'm so glad you enjoyed the romance in Buffy's scenes with Savlian. Those memories are very precious to her, and we are ecstatic to have your endorsement!

Destri- I'm glad that the influence of Gaius Rulician's brave fall at the claws of a lion was able to be remembered in a way that carries import.

"I will learn how to close that gate for us." Yes, such a tiny word, yet I'm so glad you drew attention to its importance. Indeed, her words there said more than her heart understands.

Zalphon- Thank you. For a high maintenance, independent, skittish elf, Buffy actually takes to authority fairly well. . . sometimes. I think she's learned from Savlian to appreciate the fact that those burdened with a mantle of responsibility require a degree of authority.



I felt as though part of me belonged in Kvatch now, and didn't trust myself not to turn around and go back. That's why Superian and I had quickly put the burning city well behind us. During our trip east, I kept thoughts of Savlian Matius at bay by focusing on what I had learned at Kvatch, and thinking about Sanguine's task.

After several days of travel, we now approached Lake Rumare. "Acadian, I fail to see how disrupting some noble's party in Leyawiin is going to help Savlian."

Who is it that asked for my help marking her map, and does she perhaps have a better idea?

"You would throw my own words back at me?"

Are you now ready to take us into the Deadlands?

"Well, no. Not yet."

I agree. Patience, my bowgirl.

"Patience?" I groused. "That's two four letter words stuck together! I hate being patient!"

You would prefer us to embrace a single four letter word, such as dead? I did not mismark your map.

Acadian's silent words echoed in my mind. I knew the paladin would go wherever I took us and accept my choices. I also knew that during those times when he had led us, it had never been astray. I sighed. "I'm sure you're right. I trust your help. I just-"

Superian's ears perked and she quickened her pace. The Valley of Horses now opened its welcoming meadows and canyons to us. I leaned forward to pat the mare's neck. "You smell the barn. I'll bet Thernd will make up some oats and apples with a touch of molasses if you give him a kiss. I've got some work to do at the University for a day or so, but I know you're looking forward to plenty of cool water and fresh hay. What I want is a long, hot bath and a real bed. Oh, and some sweet rolls. And strawberries."

* *

I studied the slender stream of flame connecting the tip of my finger to the silver teapot. Soon, steam began to rise. From one of the cabinets flanking the nearby spellmaking altar, I collected two cups and filled one for myself. Sipping my tea, I waited.

I was more than a little perturbed at Daedra Lords as I thought about the two spells thrust upon me by Namira and Sanguine. In fact, I felt somewhat violated and was determined to at least figure out what the spells did.

There were two mages at the University considered to be the finest spellcrafters in all of Cyrodiil. Borissean was overly cautious and had no sense of adventure. Gaspar Stegine, on the other hand, had been up for the challenge of helping me unravel the Daedric magic.

We had quickly discovered that Namira's Shroud was an alteration spell that extinguished flame. Although simple, it would have been lethal for the Priests of Arkay if used on their torches in the ruins of Anga - as Namira had wished.

Sanguine's Stark Reality spell was more complex. The night prior, Gaspar and I had acknowledged the lateness of the hour and agreed to meet again early this morning to continue our research.

The door opened and Gaspar breezed into the Praxographical Center. I turned for the teapot. He wasted no time in getting right to business. "You know that element hidden within Sanguine's spell we couldn't figure out? It hit me in the middle of the night." Accepting the proffered cup of tea, he added, "Oh, good morning."

"And what is your verdict, Gaspar?" I said to the master spellcrafter.

Setting his cup on a nearby table without drinking, he continued, "Insidiously hidden within its alteration magic is a destruction component of some sort."

"Sanguine expects me to use destruction magic on nobles?" I mused warily. "How do you suggest we proceed?"

"I'm afraid we've analyzed it as much as we can," he then added slowly, "unless you're willing to test it."

"Is that wise?" I felt an eyebrow rise to match one of the Breton's.

"Probably not." Gaspar chuckled as he pushed his blue hood back, revealing a mane of gray hair that now rested on the collar of his robe. "If you asked my colleague, Borissean, he'd advise against it of course."

"He advises against everything," I replied.

"I see from that impish grin, that you don't put much stock in his cautionary counsel." Gaspar winked. "Neither do I."

"I do appreciate your help," I said. "I'm willing to test the spell, but I don't want to endanger you."

"Nonsense, Buffy. I'm as curious as you are. In my three score of years, I've never before had an opportunity to pick apart the spell of a Deadra Lord." He furrowed his brow while rubbing his chin for a moment. "Well first, we don't need to expose any bystanders." Without really looking at the door, he waved his hand in its general direction and released a small burst of magic. I heard the bolt slide home. He then effortlessly tossed an orange ball of energy up in the air before us. As a skeleton emerged, the wizard commanded, "Cast Stark Reality."

"Here goes," I said nervously. Forming Sanguine's mysterious magic in my hand, I released it into the summoned victim.

The skeleton merely flinched - as did I, feeling a tiny sliver of my health being drained. I quickly looked at Gaspar to see if he had been similarly affected.

It was quite a surprise to see the old Breton completely naked, and staring at me. Looking down, I realized my russet felt dress and slippers had also disappeared, rendering me equally bare. Not being known for my nimble thinking, it didn't occur that this might have been a really good time to cast an invisibility spell. Besides, I found the situation rather humorous.

After a moment, Gaspar gentlemanly averted his gaze and turned away, as a pink flush claimed his skin. He quickly retrieved a pair of apprentice robes from a nearby cupboard, and tossed one over his shoulder to me. The skeleton, who had appeared only mildly amused by the incident, chose that moment to grin as he evaporated.

As soon as we both donned the green bags, I said, "You can turn around now. I'd say that was quite the spell. Sanguine did promise Stark Reality would liven things up."

"I'm sorry, Buffy." Gaspar's face was quite reddened. "I certainly didn't expect that. At least no real harm was done. I guess I needed a new robe and hood anyway."

"Why Gaspar, your face is still red." Trying to make light of the situation, I placed my hands behind my back, leaned forward and coyly said, "Perhaps you should unlock the door before we become an item for rumors."

"You're right," he replied. My attempt at humor had fallen flat though. Gaspar did not return my smile; he simply tossed another spell at the door to unlock it. "For a young lady that has just had her clothes removed, you don't seem to share my embarrassment."

"Perhaps it's because I'm a wood elf." I shrugged. "Mother told me that from a very young age, she and Father had trouble keeping clothes on me. She teased that even my name came from the fact I was always running around 'in the buff'. This was especially true around water. Why, I was almost twelve before the red-faced protests of my archery master finally convinced me not to drop my clothes beside every stream to play in the water. I'm more discreet now I suppose, but I still find that waterfalls tend to make my clothes fall off."

Both Gaspar's eyebrows rose. "Well, I was raised differently than you young folks, I guess." His face had still not returned completely to its normal color, and it seemed I was not helping. Clearly, he had been quite a bit more affected by our intimate exposure than I.

"Gaspar, you've nothing to be embarrassed about," I said. "You didn't know this would happen." I then met his eyes with a meaningful look and added, "Besides, you're a fine looking man, with or without your clothes."

How much truth my words carried was unimportant. What mattered was that they did seem to make the old Breton feel more confident, as his normal aura of wisdom and authority seemed to reemerge. The corners of his eyes crinkled as he said, "And as a young adventuress, I suppose you've seen many men without their clothes?"

Smiling at the return of his teasing manner, I replied, "Actually, yes I have. Well, dead ones anyway. Boderi Farano used to send me out hunting two-legged varmints to practice the fighting skills she taught me when I was a student here. I was no stranger to pulling the armor off dead bandits so I could hone my repair skills."

I was pleased that my words, despite their somewhat morbid nature, elicited a chuckle from Gaspar. He then remarked, "Leave it to Boderi to enhance your lessons with more than what appears on the surface. Well, you just be careful with that spell, Buffy. The destruction component within it could be considered an assault."

"Yes," I replied, "that fact has not been lost on me." It seemed Sanguine's intent was to land his messenger in jail after embarrassing the Countess. I was hoping for different results. "Thank you so much for your help." I closed the distance to the Breton and kissed him on the cheek. "You're wonderful."

Gaspar puffed up slightly, as I had hoped. "Ahem, well, thank you, Apprentice. I hope you'll excuse me. I've got a class to teach." With that, he left and I was once again alone in the Praxographical Center.

Turning to my other purpose here, I looked at a nearby altar of spellmaking and contemplated the complexity of the new spell I hoped to create. Based on what Sigrid told me, I had added flame atronachs to my list of foes that were immune to poison. Some quick research at the Mystic Archives had verified my suspicion that atronachs of other types were similarly immune, just as I knew the undead were.

I relied heavily on poison to multiply my effectiveness, and wanted a way to safely counter immunity to it. I remembered the words of Boderi Farano from the time of my graduation:

"Your talent for destruction magic does not lie with the elements. Keep practicing until you can master weakness to poison and efficiently cast your new drain speed ability. Only then, will the beauty of destruction magic fully merge with your path."

I had heeded Boderi's words, and adopted the habit of practicing spellcasting most evenings before bed. My destruction practice had not focused on fire, ice and lightning; rather, I had strived to improve the very effects commended by Boderi.

With a smile, I activated the altar.

SPEW !!!! What was he doing till then? GAAAAH !!!! ROFL !!!


Ode To Gaspar

Now that I am old and gray, and time is running out
What used to be my sex appeal, is now my water spout...



*

Hello again, I spend a couple of months away and return to find nudity in the Praxographical center!?

I've spent the later part of my morning and the early part of my afternoon reading through the chapters I've missed during my time away and, as expected, my day has been full of delight as I share Buffy's thoughts and feelings of her adventures. Buffy's story is still amazing, full of the ups and downs and side-to-sides of daily Bowgirl life.

Her interactions with Daedric Lords had my heart in my mouth and her brief forray into the deadlands was very exciting! The Bosmer has learned a lot in these past months but still manages to survive without a blade! This 'Blade problem' is serious-even if Buffy carried a dagger...or a small knife...even a sharp pencil would help! While I'm on the subject of blades, one sentence stood out to me in all the chapters I have read today--"Nobody but a mage would carry a bow without a blade to back it up."--which is true! You mage-types are crazy!

I'm gonna catch up on the other stories that I've missed but I'll be keeping a close eye on you and your Bosmer Bowgirl.

Wonderous writing, with a bit of humor too! I was waiting for the moment of nudity to happen, as I just completed the quest recently as well. It's too bad that you lose the spell after the quest, what a great bit of fun if you could keep it! Excellent work Acadian, excellent work.

If you play on the PC, the "Basic Instincts" mod does the same thing - and no one arrests you because there is no destruction spell wrapped in. It is a blast...just don't use it on females indoors or you may find out it has an unexpected side effect...like I did, the hard way...GAAAAAH !!!!

This was quite the delightful episode of finding out Sanguine's spell.

I had to laugh at this: Just how does a skeleton, pray tell, grin?

Buffy didn't mind being caught in the buff, but Gaspar did? And here I thought Bretons had the Gallic flair for flaunting it!

"That's two four letter words stuck together!
Or as the old joke goes: "I'm not a doctor, so I don't have any patience!"
Seriously, I loved this little interplay between Buffy and her fairy godfather. It shows so much about the character of both.

I loved Gaspar's adventurous nature, and the scene where he and Buffy experimented with Stark Reality. Buffy's sudden realization that first Gaspar, and then herself, were naked was priceless!

And finally Buffy is going to create a combination Weakness to Poison & Drain Speed spell to prep her targets before introducing them to her little friend nightshade.

You guys dont happen to know how to start a fanfic, do you ? Well of course u do! Duh. Please tell.

Good on you, Savlian- to have eyes only for Buffy- as opposed to being distracted by Sigrid’s more “outstanding features.” And good too, that our elf recognizes the spirit and strength that holds the defense of Kvatch together- the ability that all good officers have.
Recalling the reason behind Buffy’s “tame” spell is a wonderful reminder of her history and her motivations. It is touches like that which make this more than “just a story.”
And her conflicting emotions as Savlian takes the next slow step in this dance were expressed beautifully.



There. Right there. That passage is transcendent. Anyone who wants to know how to right real people struggling with real emotions needs look no further.

The conversation with Acadian reminds us of the fact that guidance is not always easy to follow- or to give.

And Buffy’s reaction to the spells that she did not ask for makes perfect sense, especially as their effects are unknown.

The whole scene with Gaspar was written with humor and heart. Buffy’s gentle teasing of the old mage adds even more depth to her winning personality.

And at the last, we see another aspect of this young elf- her determination to make the most of her abilities and to shore up her weaknesses. Well- except the ones for sweetrolls and strawberries- and certain Kvatch captains.

QUOTE

You would prefer us to embrace a single four letter word, such as dead? I did not mismark your map.

I loved this! Acadian accepts Buffy’s assassination of Earana, her dangerous flirtations with necromancy, and her willingness to go through with the sometimes twisted errands put forth by Daedric Princes . . . but questioning of his sense of direction elicits a fit of pique! It seems that the old paladin’s faith in his bowgirl comes with the expectation that she return the favor. I am so glad that Buffy has the sense to do just that.

Maybe it’s the fact that he wears a hood indoors, but Gaspar Stegine does seem like the coolest person in the Arcane University. Using him as the foil for Buffy to test ‘Stark Reality’ was just perfect.

Finally, I can’t end this comment without some mention of how Buffy got her name. Someone be sure to tell Savlian that the picnic he has planned for them when this whole mess is over should take place near a waterfall!

Savlian is quick to touch Buffy! A very "touching" scene.

One nit" in "I'm more discrete now I suppose, but I still find that waterfalls tend to make my clothes fall off." you probably want "discreet" instead.

Chapter 54 found Buffy arriving at the Arcane University. With the help of a master spellcrafter, she unraveled and stripped away the mystery of the two spells that had been forced upon her by the Daedra Lords Namira and Sanguine. She then set about creating a spell of her own to help combat foes who possessed immunity to poison.

mALX- Thank you. It appears old Gaspar was quite startled.

Casper- Thanks! I'm guessing that removing one's clothes is the alteration effect within Stark Reality. The spell also has tiny drain health component - that is the destruction piece and what renders the spell an assault. By complimenting Gaspar and kissing him on the cheek, Buffy was trying to ease his embarrassment and puff up his ego (without resorting to oral inflation tubes of course).

hazmick- Welcome back, my friend and thanks for the kind words. We have missed you and Haa-Rei. Buffy has her hands full trying to keep her bow and magic skills up; she lacks the strength, skill and nimble thinking to ever be a good blade fighter. She does however, carry a hunting knife - but only for dressing game, skinning pelts and cutting her arrows free. She refers to it sometimes in her stories. Here is Buffy modeling her black cat suit and sporting that hunting knife strapped to her thigh: Screenshot

Grizzly- Thank you! I will give Buffy her due for dedication to research. She knows she is not an agile thinker, so she tries to compensate with planning and study. I expect she will use that Stark Reality spell in Leyawiin, but probably not without some rather elaborate planning.

Rider- Thank you. It was great fun drawing the contrast between the magically innovative, but stodgy old Breton and the free spirited wood nymph. We enjoyed bringing out some of Buffy's background, as well as displaying her compassion for the embarrassed old wizard.

SubRosa- I'm pleased you liked the interaction between Buffy and Acadian; I suppose some bickering is inevitable when two spirits have to share the same little body and can't exactly go their separate ways. I thoroughly enjoyed the preview of Stark Reality. And yes! You see the nature of the spell Buffy is creating. She will get to test it in this next episode.

Petra- Welcome to our wonderful forums! I'm delighted that you figured out how to open a thread to share the story of Alex the Nord with us!

treydog- Your kind words regarding Buffy's delicate dance with Savlian are like a soothing potion - Particularly from the author who brings us the magnificently beautiful ballet known as Athlain and Athynae. Those scenes with Savlian are precious to us, and I am so pleased they stirred your wonderfully kind old doggie heart. Thank you so much. To summarize Buffy's scene with Gaspar as 'humor and heart' is equally soothing, for that surely was our intent.

Destri- Thank you. Buffy and Acadian do indeed depend upon and trust each other for their very survival; not without a few bumps and disagreements of course, as the two spirits must coexist within one frail shell. We really like Gaspar as well and had great fun putting his mastery of spellcraft to use! Little wood nymph dancing in the moonlight, tossing a carefree trail of clothes behind as she is drawn by the sound of falling water.

MyCat- Thank you for the 'touching' comments! Thank you also for reminding me that discreet is indeed better than discrete in that context - fixed!



Four pink glows erupted as I slid on one of my rings. The round floating shapes were ethereal undead of some sort. I selected a custom spell. The mages called the effect 'telekinesis', but I called it 'target identification'. I did not have to cast the spell. Merely by having it selected, I could identify targets up to one hundred feet away. Crouched at a safe distance, I could divine that one of the pink glows was an ancient sanctified dead.

I didn't know where these creatures came from, or why they periodically infested the undercroft of my Great Chapel of Mara. All I needed to know was that they would attack anyone on sight. Several years ago, they almost killed Cosmus the Cheat, simply for trying to find a place to sleep out of the rain one night.

The Clergy of Mara, after unsuccessfully attempting to placate the spirits, had turned to their protective potions and powerful magic staves. They had become quite adept at purging the ghosts when required. Nevertheless, Marz on numerous occasions had to heal the priestesses of ice burns.

Uravasa Othrelas had gratefully accepted my offer to clear out the undercroft this time, and save her some trouble. I was a hunter, here to practice and refine my craft.

My eyes had now adjusted to the darkness under the chapel. Nocking an arrow to my silk bowstring, I watched as one of the glows slowly moved among the columns. I drew some tension on the bow, aimed at a point where I expected a target to emerge, and patiently waited.

My arrow's impact elicited an eerie shriek. Slayer's enchantments protected my hidden location while bathing the ghostly creature in a brief storm of sparks. As my second arrow struck, Azura's Star captured the spirit's energy. Its physical form collapsed into a pale green puddle.

I selected another arrow and crept forward until I could see into one of the adjoining chambers. Two arrows similarly killed the single prey within.

A mass of freezing energy flew past my head!

Diving for the floor, I winced at the collision of left shoulder and stone tile. I rolled behind a column, and scrambled back to my feet. Aiming at the glow beyond, I slid out a pace to reveal foe number three. I loosed my arrow even as I began moving back behind the stone pillar of safety. Another icy blast harmlessly chilled the column as I heard a wail - no doubt caused by my arrow finding its mark. The glow remained however.

I aimed through the pillar again and took one pace out to the other side this time. My arrow was faster than the spirit, and the glow was gone before it could charge up another spell. I looked at the ethereal undead that had been reduced to a puddle on the cold stone floor, and whispered, "I know how that feels; better you than me."

One ancient sanctified dead remained. A change in tactics - rather an experiment - was in order.

I poisoned an arrow, slipped it into my boot sheath and made ready a new, untested spell. After a quick mental rehearsal, I snuck toward a firing position that would afford a clear shot. The ghostly creature had its back to me. Calling forth the complex powers of destruction, a glow formed in my right hand. The moment the spell left my fingertips, I quickly nocked and released my poisoned arrow. Boderi, my University advisor, called it 'chasing my spell' and had relentlessly made me practice the tactic. The spirit - normally immune to poison - turned green as the vile liquid from my arrow made its presence known.

Undetected and fascinated, I crept closer. After a few more moments, the spirit collapsed, claimed by my poison.

It worked!

My spell had two components. First, it temporarily but dramatically weakened my enemies to poison - in this case even countering the immunity of these undead. The second aspect of the spell was that it totally but briefly drained a victim's speed; this rendered the target unable to remember being hit by a spell and allowed me to remain undetected while 'chasing my spell' with an arrow. In fact, the drain speed effect was similar to one of Slayer's enchantments - and just as effective at preserving my stealth after striking.

The spell was quite demanding to cast, but I was confident that as my magical skills increased, and with practice, I would better be able to manage it. In fact, I hoped to eventually add a long soul trap effect to the next version of the spell.

Visions of green ghosts, zombies and atronachs danced in my head!

Careful not to slip on the ghost puddles, I collected the useful remains from my prey.

*

At the Bravil Mages Guild, I sought out my friend, Ardaline. After exchanging hugs and quickly catching up on each others' news, I showed her my spoils.

"Buffy, this ectoplasm is so fresh it's still wet!" The Altmer immediately began processing the green slime through her alchemy equipment. "What can I get you in return?"

After placing Slayer on my guild mate's counter, I produced Azura's Star and a repair hammer from my pack. "Really," I said, "I just needed the practice and wanted to test a new spell. . . but if you have some hair conditioner already made up, that would be wonderful." I went about returning my bow to perfect condition.

Ardaline smiled and produced two pink vials which she placed on the counter. "Here. I made these up just yesterday, using that recipe we both like."

"Oh, thank you," I said as I swept my tools and the conditioner into my pack. "There's nothing worse than traveling without proper soap, shampoo and conditioner. Say, have you seen Delphine?"

"I think she's in the dining room, probably having tea with Kud-Ei." Ardaline had added some columbine root pulp to the ectoplasm - no doubt to make a fortify magicka potion. She was now pouring the concoction from one vial to another. "Oh, make sure you congratulate Delphine on that award the University gave her for the 'Enemies Explode' spell she created."

"I will." Smiling fondly up at my friend, I looked at the simple blue and green dress she wore. Yes, Delphine was who I needed to talk to. Heading for the dining area, I trailed words over my shoulder, "Thanks, Ardaline."

I had heard about Delphine's award and was very happy for her. As far as 'Enemies Explode' went, I didn't quite understand an award for standing in front of the altar and turning the fire damage controls all the way up to 'By Azura!' Despite the fact that my own spell to immobilize enemies while weakening them to poison was more creative, I would never submit it for an award. I smiled to myself as I realized it wasn't really about the award; it was the joy receiving it gave to Delphine.

I did indeed find the Diva of Destruction having tea with Kud-Ei, the leader of our chapter. "Congratulations, Delphine - on your spell I mean."

"Ooooh! Thank you, Buffy." The Breton bubbled with enthusiasm, almost squirming like a puppy in her chair. "Would you like me to teach it to you?"

"Delphine," I said, "like Kud-Ei here, I'm an illusionist." I chuckled as I took a seat beside my two guild mates and poured a cup of tea. "I couldn't begin to figure out how to cast such a powerful fire spell."

Kud-Ei looked at me and calmly said, "We don't need such things when we can control minds do we, Apprentice?" I adored the sound of her wonderfully melodic voice, so typical of Argonian women.

"Um, ladies," I said, "I'm expecting to attend a formal dinner affair at Castle Leyawiin. Do either of you have any suggestions as to what I might wear?" I got just the response I hoped for from the two women who were so very different from each other:

Kud-Ei blinked and took a sip of tea.

Delphine shot to her feet. "Oh my, yes! How exciting! I know you've got lots of clothes, Buffy. We're about the same size, too. Let me run upstairs and grab some of mine." The effervescent Breton breezed out of the room.

Peeking around the corner, I could see Delphine's blue gown bouncing up the steps.

Kud-Ei lowered her cup and shrugged. "Sorry Buffy, I have ten outfits and they are all the same as the green one I am wearing now. Something tells me, you will get all the fashion advice you need from Delphine though. Perhaps more than you want." She lifted the tea to her lips again, but there was a sparkle in her orange eyes.

"Thank you, Kud-Ei." Then I added, "You help me in more ways than you know."

Delphine, her arms full of clothes, poked her head around the corner. "Let's go, Buffy. Off to your place. C'mon!"

* From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

Gals and clothes go together like bagels and lox...and once they start they aint gonna stop.

Hmmm....that's quite a complex and powerful spell you got there, Friend Acadian. How much magika will it deplete? I guess you are gonna need puh-len-tee of restore magika for that one.

"I think she's in the dining room, probably having tea with Kud-EI." has a shift error on her name, I do it all the time.

And in that screen shot it looks more like an ancient sanctified almost dead

It's good to be back with everyone, Haa-Rei was starting to get lonely. A hunting knife is better than nothing I suppose, and that cat suit!

Buffy's mission to clear the chapel was brilliant! Those ghosties never stood a chance!

As always, I love your descriptions of the Bravil mages, especially Kud-Ei and here brilliantly described eyes.

I'm interested to see how Sanguine's quest will turn out, and what outfit Delphine chooses for our Bosmer!

Here is an example of a perfect action sequence:



Buffy's tactical brilliance shines as much as your ability to describe it. When you can make it look this easy, it gives inspiration to us all.

So Buffy joins the Ghostbusters! She ain't afraid of no ghost!

The mages called the effect 'telekinesis', but I called it 'target identification'. I did not have to cast the spell. Merely by having it selected, I could identify targets up to one hundred feet away.
Here we see an excellent example of a very useful tactic in the game.

I looked at the ethereal undead that had been reduced to a puddle on the cold stone floor, and whispered, "I know how that feels
Priceless!

My spell had two components. First, it temporarily but dramatically weakened my enemies to poison - in this case even countering the immunity of these undead. The second aspect of the spell was that it totally but briefly drained a victim's speed
And another example of a potent tactic in the game.

And finally we finish up with some important girl stuff. Hair and clothes! Seriously, Buffy's visit to the Bravil MG was a very nice little piece. It showed us Buffy in her home, surrounded by her friends, and highlighted the different ways in which she interacts with each.


nits:
I didn't quite understand an award for standing in front of the alter
I think Sir Rugrat has reprehended your altar for an alter!

Ha ha, ladies and their clothes, although men, like me, can be picky about what they wear as well. Hmm, I never knew that the sanctified spirits in the Chapel Under crofts attacked, at least they never attack me. I particularly like Buffy's kindness towards the Chapel, not many people in Cyrodiil would bother clearing out spirits from a church. Can't wait to see what happens next, will Buffy still be in Bravil, or perhaps on her way to Leyawin? (forgot how to spell it. :/ ) Perhaps already there. Keep up the good work Acadian! Also, I've been wondering this for a while, does your user name have anything to do with your nationality? I know that Acadia was a French area in colonial times, and that Acadian has to do with the French settlers of that area. Great work!

This was a real tactics teaching chapter! Sage Rosa already quoted my fave line, Buffy and her puddles, ROFL !!! This chapter sounds familiar to the BGSF, if I am not mistaken, lol. Great Write !!!!!

Visions of green ghosts, zombies and atronachs danced in my head!

In mine as well, I have learned a lot from Buffy in this chapter.

How I enjoyed the cup of tea with Kud-Ei. I'm looking forward to Delphine playing dress-up with Buffy! Girlfriends rock.

When ever I need inspiration to play Oblivion I always go straight to your writing.
Catsuits, sneak, bows, chasing spells with poison, ghost killing, collecting alchemy ingredients, it certainly does have it all

This chapter was always one of my favs from Buffy 1.0
It is another example of our humble Bravil coming alive.......or is that dead?!!

In Episode 55, Buffy successfully tested a new spell she had crafted to help her employ poison more effectively -even against normally immune foes - while preserving her stealth. She then caught up with friends at the Bravil Mages Guild and requested some advice on what to wear for Countess Leyawiin's dinner party. Ever the fashionista, Delphine quickly offered to help.

Foxy- Thanks! You're right that when Buffy first started using such spells, they severely drained her magic. We consider the synergy of such spells chased by poisoned arrows to be the pinnacle of mystic archery, so please allow me a touch of 'watchbuilding' here. Readers not so interested in the specifics should feel free to skip over the next two paragraphs:

The spell Buffy used in this previous episode was her first and simplest version: Weakness to poison on target 100x4 seconds + Drain speed on target 100x1 second. It cost her a boatload of magicka to cast back then. As you know, casting cost goes down with skill in the relevant school of magic. That's a destruction spell, and Buffy's destruction skill is now 90; therefore it would now cost her a miniscule 18 magicka to cast.

She has dramatically upgraded the spell as her skills have grown and has several variants now. Her fave is this: Weakness to poison on target 100x8 seconds + Drain speed on target 100x1 second + Soul trap on target x35 seconds + feather on self 3x8 seconds + fortify fatigue on self 3x35 seconds. The longer weakness duration gives her more time to get off her poisoned shot. The last two effects only add 1 magicka each to the cost of the spell and simply serve to give her little 'timer' icons (as they are active effects on self) to let her know how much time remains on her weakness to poison and soul trap effects. Because soul trap is the single most powerful effect in this version, the spell overall is assigned to the mysticism school. With 100 skill in mysticism, the spell now costs Buffy a manageable 58 magicka. Chasing such a spell with a poison that includes several damage effects is devastating.

MyCat- Thanks for the help fixing Kud-Ei's name! Yes, the poor ghostie only lasted a few seconds after that screenshot.

hazmick- We miss Haa-Rei as well! Thank you. Buffy does indeed love her Bravil guild mates - each in their own way. She is getting ready for an expedition to Leyawiin to do Sanguine's quest. Please bear with us though because, oh my goodness - what a huge production we will make of it!

Destri- Wow! Such high praise from the master of spellbinding action sequences. Thank you!

SubRosa- Yes, long range target ID of pink glows is a challenge for Buffy, but she's found that the 'zoom in' marksman perk, arming a max range telekinesis spell or sometimes briefly deactivating detect life can help.
-Well, you know Buffy and puddles. . . .
-I'm afraid the next episode is quite a bit more hair and clothes, lol.
-Thanks for the nit. You'd think the spellmaking altar would surely prevent me from altering the spelling of altar.

Grizzly- Mara has never 'pushed' Buffy; I think that may be one reason Buffy loves her. The name Acadian - My family did indeed migrate from France to the eastern US/Canada border, so I suppose the name Acadian may be somewhat appropriate. Honestly though, in my case it was inspired by the role of Mathayus (played by The Rock) as the last true Akkadian mercenary in the movie 'The Scorpion King'. Big guy, big bow, big sword. Live free, die well.

mALX- Thank you! Yes, the episode is similar to BF 1.0. The main differences:
1. We 'bridged' Buffy from Kvatch to Bravil with the previous chapter, so popping up in the undercroft in Bravil to test her new spell should not have been a surprise (as it surprised treydog in 1.0).
2. We added some explanation regarding ghosts in undercrofts as a result of Buffy constantly asking me 'why?' in 2.0.
3. We enhanced Buffy's interaction with Ardaline just a little, to hopefully better 'show' that they really are very comfortable as peers and best friends.

Grits- I'm so glad you enjoyed Buffy's dance with the ghosties as we tried to display a bit of mystic archery! There will be a touch of girl talk amidst plenty of dress up in this next episode. Thank you for the kind words, and I'm so delighted you are sharing Jerric's wonderful story with us!

Wolf- G'day and thank you for the wonderfully kind words! We miss you and our Bravilian neighbor, Aradroth. I'm so glad you dropped in!



I had no sooner removed my blouse to try on the first dress, when Delphine's eyes fell upon my bare left shoulder and she exclaimed, "Buffy! What happened to you?" Her eyes flashed anger. "I swear if someone's been hurting you, I'll make them explode!"

"No no, Delphine. I was hunting ghosts in the undercroft this morning and had to do some diving and rolling."

"Really!" Delphine shook her head and clucked disapprovingly. "Someday you're going to get hurt skulking around in dark places like that. If you can't manage 'Enemies Explode', you should at least let me try and teach you Adrienne Berene's 'Fire Storm' spell."

My fingertips applied white magic to the shoulder injury. As my bruises began to fade, I giggled. "I don't think Mara would appreciate one of us fire storming her chapel."

My home soon had clothes everywhere and I was getting dizzy from trying on so many outfits. The bottle of Tamika's that Delphine and I shared probably didn't help. Finally, I blew several stray wisps of hair from my face and complained, "We need a break."

"Here," said Delphine as she laid three gowns on the bed, "it will be one of these. Yes, let's sit down for a moment." The Breton took a seat at my small table, smoothed her skirt and channeled excess energy into plucking imagined lint from her blue velvet sleeve. "Tell me, Buffy, how are you getting to Leyawiin?"

I drained the last of the Tamika's into our goblets, then gratefully plopped myself onto a chair across the table from Delphine. "Well, I can't swim there like Kud-Ei does, silly."

"The roads are dangerous," sniffed Delphine. "I had to go to Leyawiin once for my University recommendation, and traveled by ship. Why don't you try that?"

"I'll ride my mare, of course," I said. In response to her disapproving expression, I added, "Between my detect life rings and the bursts of speed that Superian's capable of, we've learned to travel pretty safely together."

Delphine glanced toward the ceiling as a delicate finger came to rest upon one cheek. Knowing my guild mate, I was pretty sure her busy mind had already migrated beyond my travel arrangements. "Say, don't I recall seeing lots of Khajiit in Leyawiin?"

"Yes," I replied, "and Argonians too. It's quite sad actually, to see the way they insult and tease each other there." I drained my goblet, got to my feet and started sorting through more outfits. "Why do you ask?"

"Buffy, I have a dear friend who was a classmate at the University. She and I are as close as you and Ardaline. I haven't heard from her in ages, and that's quite unusual. I worry that perhaps something's happened."

I was tugging a green silk skirt up over my hips as I paused. It was unusual to see Delphine not bubbling with cheerful confidence. As she drummed her fingers on the table though, it was clear she was troubled. "Is this friend of yours a Khajiit, and would you like me to keep an eye out for her in my travels?"

Delphine nodded. "Would you please? Her name is Maxical. You can't miss her. She's a pretty little thing with white fur and a mane of strikingly red hair. Like you, she insists on carrying a weapon - a sword instead of a bow though. A wise choice for her I suppose; poor dear can't aim a spell or arrow properly to save her life.

"I'll keep an eye open, Delphine. She sounds easy to spot."

The Breton's look of concern faded somewhat, as she got to her feet. "I'm glad to see you selecting more clothes for your trip than just ball gowns and animal skins." She freed my hair from the neckline of the white peasant blouse I had just pulled over my head. "Oh, this childish ponytail will simply not do for a formal dinner."

"Delphine, do you remember how you helped put me together for my graduation party? Could you teach me how to do some different ponytail styles?"

Delphine puffed up some and smiled. "Turn around and face the looking glass. You can have such a hairstyle and still impart a softer line to your face. The secret, whether your ponytail is high, low or just accents a loose flow, is to not gather all your hair together. Now watch how I do this, then we'll have you try."

After paying close attention and a few failed attempts, I was able to arrange my hair in several styles while still retaining a ponytail. "How's this?"

"That's much more attractive," said Delphine approvingly, "but it's not what you want for a castle dinner. When you get to Leyawiin, see Agata. Yes, yes, I know she's a Nord, and many of them rely on their breasts instead of fashion. Agata is different though; although you wouldn't know it to look at her, she really does know clothes and hair. Have her help you put it up into a stick twist. It'll show off that pretty neck and make you look elegant."

"Stick twist?" I grimaced. "Do you think it's wise to lift my hair up away from my big ears?"

"Don't be ridiculous," Delphine admonished. "If you had little ears you wouldn't be a wood elf." As if her logic should have evaporated my concern, she gestured toward the dresses on my bed and continued, "Now, for your dinner party, take all three of these with you and decide there. It would be helpful if you could somehow figure out what the other ladies will be wearing. You're usually pretty good about wearing matching footwear, so just make sure you don't forget to pack shoes for each gown."

"Delph-"

Before I could get a word in, she went on, "Oh, now don't forget to take a nice amulet with you. That copper thing you wear most of the time may be enchanted, but it certainly doesn't go with a formal gown. I'm surprised it doesn't stain your neck the color of a Dunmer."

My head was spinning. "Thank you so much, Delphine. I'll take all that stuff with me, look up Agata, and let you know if I see a white Khajiit."

*

"Buffy, you look positively frazzled."

"What a day, Nilawen," I said with an exaggerated sigh after closing the door of The Fair Deal behind me. "I spent a good part it getting fashion advice and learning new hairstyles from Delphine. Then I rushed out to reload my quiver and say good bye to Daenlin before I travel to Leyawiin. I'm glad I made it here before you closed."

The dark haired merchant rolled her eyes. "Delphine's a dear, and I understand she's quite the prodigy with destruction magic, but just watching her flit about makes me tired. Your hair looks nice though, with some of it not being gathered into your ponytail. When are you leaving?"

"Thank you," I said, twirling a blond lock. "I still have to finish packing this evening. I'll leave tomorrow before sunrise."

Nilawen wiped both hands on her apron. "Well then, what can I get for you this evening?"

"I was hoping the new journal I ordered might have come in? My current one is getting quite full."

"Well, you're in luck," came the reply as the Bosmer reached under her counter and produced a small book. "It arrived today with my newest shipment of supplies, which you'll be happy to know included a case of Tamika's and some fresh strawberries." Her eyes sparkled as she bent down and lifted a bag up to the counter. "I set some aside for you."

I giggled, then replied, "You know me well." After gathering up my goods, I pressed some gold coins into Nilawen's hand.

Her fingers lingered on mine as she said, "I know Daenlin will miss you. I once asked him if he regrets teaching you the very skills that now allow you to roam so far and freely from Bravil."

"What did my master say?" I asked.

"He simply told me that if you hold onto a butterfly, it cannot survive." Nilawen smiled as she released my hand. "Safe travels to Leyawiin, Buffy."

*

Well, after what Nilawen told me, I couldn't help but stop at The Archer's Paradox for a second, tearful goodbye to Daenlin. Finally however, I returned to my little house.

After picking up all the clothes still strewn about, I settled in for an evening of packing. I sang softly to myself and Acadian as I carefully inspected everything from bowstrings to poisons to blue velvet shoes.

As I began carefully placing items into my pack, I tried to remember everything that had been pushed into my head during the day. Don't forget to ask Agata for help, I reminded myself. What did Delphine mean about Nords not knowing much about fashion? Sigrid of Kvatch was a Nord, and she was both elegant and beautiful. I frowned with a pang of jealousy, wishing I hadn't remembered that.

I quit singing, in favor of chattering to Acadian. "How are we going to get into Countess Leyawiin's dinner party? I've only ever been inside a castle long enough to buy this house, and that didn't go so well. Count Bravil told me it was against his better judgment to allow forest creatures to even buy houses, and that I should feel lucky he was even willing to take my gold. I was in tears before I left."

Finally, I was packed. Before starting my bedtime spell practice, I said to Acadian, "Here's a question that I really would like an answer to: Say we do get into this castle, and even somehow manage an invitation to dinner. I don't know anything about royalty. How do I act? What do I say? I'm just a simple elf. Nobles scare me."

I couldn't imagine what he might be able to tell or show me, but I had learned not to underestimate the old paladin. I was hopeful as I closed my eyes and tried to clear my mind.

Sure enough, an image began to form. The face looked familiar - it was an older man, gray hair, white collar, purple. . . Uriel Septim! The image spoke: 'But in your face, I behold the sun’s companion.' The Emperor then faded away.

"Acadian!" I squealed. "I could kiss you! Well, ok actually I can't, but you know what I mean. You're right, the Emperor of all Tamriel was kind to me. He as much as told me I was a Child of Dawn even before Azura did. I felt like more than just a simple elf when he talked to me." A touch of pride and confidence entered my voice as I added, "If I'm good enough to walk and talk with Uriel Septim, I'm good enough to consort with the Countess of Leyawiin. Besides," I shrugged, "she might even be nice, like the Emperor was."

Besides," I shrugged, "she might even be nice, like the Emperor was."



Famous last words!!!

I'm sure you know which is my fave part!!! And whenever Miss Buffy buys a new journal, I know a new thread will be starting soon !!!! WOOOOOOOOT !!!!

Awesome Write !!!! Buffy's interations with others is always my fave parts of your story !!!! And I will keep my eyes on the FanFic page for Buffy II !!!!




Er...is she talking about using ... a ... (cough, cough) ... THONG ???? ROFL !!!!!!

she's a Nord, and many of them rely on their breasts instead of fashion
This gave me a good laugh! Especially after meeting Sigrid so recently.

Delphine is the whirlwind of energy and fashion that we all have come to expect, with some very perceptive pointers on hair styles no less.

A lovely little interlude between Buffy and Nilawen. I see it is almost time for a new journal! The real gem here is Daenlin's remark to Nilawen though.

Finally a nice wrap-up at Casa de Buff, where we see Buffy's natural insecurity about not knowing how to act around nobles. Such an excellent response by her fairy godfather, in calling up the image of the Emperor. I am glad to see that Teresa is not the only wood elf who has found him to be a guiding star!

"I was hunting ghosts in the Undercrofts" That is definitely Buffy I loved that line.

A lot of laughs came for me in this chapter! I particularly liked the Nord comment by Delphine. I can't wait to see how the dinner party turns out, or how finding Delphine's Khajiit friend turns out! Amazing work once again Acadian, you manage to immerse me in your writing so that it feels as if I'm really there, sometimes I even hear the characters talking in my head it's so well written. =)

First of all, Haa-Rei is shaking his head and would like me to tell you to tell Buffy NOT to go to castle Leyawiin. If Buffy does go through with it, Haa-rei hopes she will put the countess in her place.

Anyway, this chapter was brilliant! Delphine seems to have limitless energy (as all good destruction users should have) and she clearly knows what she's talking about.

More soon I hope!

"I don't think Mara would appreciate one of us fire storming her chapel." Hilariously put and absolutely true. Buffy would be so thoughtful as to consider collateral damage.

"I sang softly to myself and Acadian as I carefully inspected everything from bowstrings to poisons to blue velvet shoes." Mayhem and footwear, tra-la-la. I love it.

Your Delphine is so vivid, she frightens me a little!

"He simply told me that if you hold onto a butterfly, it cannot survive." Well put.

Every time she thinks of Sigrid she thinks of Savlian too. Her eyes must be turning green

Looking forward for the screen shots from the next couple of chapters.

My favorite Delphinism:

It isn’t so much the line as the attitude that accompanies it. Confident is definitely the right word to describe her. She should be preceded with a warning . . . like a hurricane! It is like she is saying:

‘Silly girl! Don’t you know that thought-space is limited? Why would you choose to entertain an idea that takes away from thoughts of fashion and making enemies explode?’

I continue to marvel at your ability to render Bravil as an effective base for Buffy. Affection and familiarity gives a sense of the history that she shares with these people. Even the account of her one trip to the Palace gives us an idea of the occasional rain that dampens Buffy’s idyllic home.

I always get a thrill from seeing such simple description that works so well. I can almost see the feathers on the wooden floor.

Great to add the part about Delphine and Maxical being friends from way back. If there was every one reason to hide under the bed covers, it is this!!
If Maxical ever arrives in the Bravil Mages Guild, I am packing up camp and heading for the Valus Mountains.

Episode 56 found Buffy in Bravil, getting plenty of fashion tips from Delphine to help prepare for Countess Leyawiin's dinner party. Later that evening, Buffy discussed some of her concerns with Acadian, as she packed and made final preparations for what she expects may be a lengthy visit to Leyawiin.

Foxy- Buffy does tend to be an optimist. Thanks!

mALX- I thank you so very much for permitting and supporting the mention of a certain little red-headed feline here. I knew you would right away recognize the imminent opening of a new thread to continue our story! Thank you for your kind words regarding Buffy's interactions with others. She does indeed play well with those who are kind to her.

SubRosa- Thank you for highlighting what I agree were important parts of this episode: Nordic breasts, the whirling Diva of Destruction (and fashion), a new journal, Daenlin's insightful butterfly remark, Buffy's insecurity, and Acadian's vote of confidence in his bowgirl.

Zalphon- Thank you! To Delphine's chagrin, Buffy is indeed a hunter.

Grizzly- Oh my goodness, such beautiful words! For us to bring you some laughs, and for you to feel immersed in Buffy's story and be able to hear the characters talking makes our hearts sing! Thank you!

hazmick- Thank you. Buffy will indeed go to Castle Leyawiin, but Haa-Rei's warnings, along with her own trepidation will hopefully ensure she takes a cautious approach.

Grits- Yes, Delphine can be frightening; she keeps wanting to teach Buffy to blow things up! And her energy - she just never stops! She would be like Tigger the Tiger if she were not so potentially dangerous when angry!

I'm glad also that you enjoyed Buffy's singing; she actually has a rather nice voice (at least that's what her paladin tells her). Thank you!

MyCat- I'm glad Daenlin's butterfly remark caught your eye.

Buffy admires Sigrid greatly; however, it would not upset her if the darn Nord was perhaps just a bit less attractive. . . . Thank you!

Destri- Thank you for picking up on how easily and naturally Delphine dismisses Buffys ear concerns. Buffy figures that's easy for Delphine to say - you know, with those cute little round human ears. *Sigh*

Somehow, Buffy's good nature and discretion allow her to dance comfortably among the guards, shady characters and most citizens of Bravil. She has however, learned to avoid the castle and those who inhabit it.

Wolf- I'm so glad you enjoyed Delphine! She is fun to write because her mannerisms and actions so clearly display her thoughts. Yes, she is a little bit like a Maxical who knows how to aim!

All- My heart swells with gratitude toward Buffy's many friends who have supported our humble tale and offered encouragement. As the bowgirl departs for Leyawiin, look for her next episode as we begin thread number three. Thread three and Buffy's other threads may be found on Acadian's sub forum.

Congrats on the completion of thread two - AWESOME Buffy tales !!!! You ROCK !!!

Wonderful tactics throughout; it is always interesting to read the “why and how” of Buffy’s combat techniques.



That gentle, honest humor we have come to love.



Now THAT is a "Buffy moment!"

The entire episode in the Bravil Guild just sings with its wonderfully-drawn characters who are familiar to us all, especially Kud-Ei and Delphine.

The Maxical cameo is a treat in itself- but there is also the added depth it gives to Delphine- who then turns back into her usual whirlwind with advice on hair, shoes, and jewelry.

And you manage again to make Bravil a real community with Nilawen.

And finally, Acadian’s gentle reminder to Buffy that she is “someone special.” We all know that already, of course, but it is good to recall that the Emperor thought so, too.

It is so good to have Buffy and her paladin here at Chorrol, and it is a joy to see the conclusion of one journal in the certain knowledge that there is another ready and waiting.

Congratulations on the completion of thread two! Buffy's story is romantic, full of suspense and thrills, comedic, and a very nice portion of action; I love it! I can't wait for the third thread, keep up the great work Acadian.

mALX- Thank you! I look forward to you and I continuing our journey together in the wonderful world of fanfic.

treydog- Your gentle encouragement and kind words mean the world to us.

Grizzly- Romance, suspense, thrills, comedy, action - such a wonderful compliment! Thank you so much for reading.