A heavy mist hung over the Lower Niben, spreading its gray tendrils far inland beyond the banks of the river. Although unseen, the sun was up and I hoped it would soon burn through the morning fog.
I love how you describe this part of Cyrodiil. I usually find it quite menacing, but through Buffy’s eyes it’s captivating.

Parting from her new friends to take another step closer to Savlian made a bittersweet end to a most satisfying Leyawiin expedition. I found the last paragraph quite affective. That kind of understanding makes the rainbows and waterfalls even more appreciated.

Episode 72 was the conclusion of Buffy's miniseries, 'The Leyawiin Expedition'. The bowgirl departed Blackwood in the company of Sergeant Lucilious Marcus. Well prior to Bravil however, the two parted ways. Lucilious continued on toward Kvatch, while Buffy made ready to cross the Niben and continue north to Azura's Shrine.

Thomas Kaira- Thank you. I guess we've gotten to know Superian well enough that her reaction to hearing a voice with no apparent source could not be ignored. Buffy has learned that despite the love between her and the mare, Superian's sheer mass and power can at times be dangerous - hence the prudent distance while she introduced Acadian. Superian is high spirited, but still young enough that she often finds herself near the bottom of the pecking order with other horses. And stallions can befuddle her as much as men can sometimes befuddle Buffy. Lol. What you say about the Legion riding geldings makes sense, and Buffy has noticed the same thing. They always seem to tolerate her prancy inquisitive mare. I saw the pictures of Beauty and Princess - they are perfectly named!

Rider- Thank you for validating our choice to actually 'show' Superian's reaction to Acadian's disembodied voice instead of just glossing over it. And thank you also for noting the serious question pondered by Buffy regarding the influence she is learning to wield. She is quite stunned by the facts that Mazoga would follow her into Oblivion, and that a sergeant of the Legion calls her 'Milady' and willingly takes direction from her. She is only now beginning to realize the implications of responsibility that accompany authority.

SubRosa- Yay for the Black Mare Lodge! We're so glad that Mazoga endorses the name based on Buffy's dear equine friend, not a menu item. More on Acadian's past coming soon. Thanks for noting how far young Buffy has come since she began her journey!

mALX- Thank you! I'm so terrible with secrets that I must force myself to keep quiet at this point regarding Acadian's past. The next couple episodes will reveal quite a bit though.

King Coin- Yes, Buffy seems to wield some power or influence now. It quite scares her. Thanks!

MyCat- Thank you for noting Buffy's growth. The next few episodes will build to a dramatic 'growth spurt' as Buffy finds what she has been seeking. Please bear with our vagueness on Acadian's past for a little bit.

The Vyper- Thank you so much for your kind words and insight on all those quotes! I didn't think about the implications of Superian not bolting, but you are very right that it surely indicates a high level of trust. If leadership means serving those who follow you, then Buffy is beginning to appreciate the responsibility of those who wear that mantle. She has certainly seen some fine examples including Carahil, Kud-Ei, Savlian Matius, Boderi Farano, and in his own gentle way, Daenlin.

Grits- Thank you for enjoying Blackwood. Buffy finds she is quite comfortable there - even captivated by the lush ferns, soft ground, weeping trees and dark waters of the marshy land. Not to mention Topal Bay under the shimmering light of twin moons. The words bittersweet and satisfying that you used to describe this episode are most appreciated!



After carefully noting where my prey had fallen, I shouldered Slayer. Grasping the small pouch containing a lock of my mare's mane, I stared at Superian's pink glow located behind a group of large boulders. "I need you." It took her only a few moments to make her way to my side. Once I was in the saddle, we threaded our way between snow-covered pines until drawing to a stop next to the deer.

"Buffy," instructed Daenlin, "always honor a deer's spirit. For without their sacrifice, we would perish. Wish them a safe journey that they may return to nourish us again." As was often his habit, he then tapped a gentle finger to the tip of my nose. "Do you understand?"

"Yes, Master," I said looking up into the eyes of the elf who taught me to hunt. "Even though it was you who killed this doe, can I still thank her?"

Daenlin lowered his hand to my small shoulder and said gently, "Of course, my Apprentice."

As the memory of Daenlin's words faded, I slipped to the ground and knelt by the warm carcass. "Thank you, young buck. I will wisely use the bounty of your flesh and magic. May your spirit have a safe journey."

I could see my breath in the cold air as I cut the arrow free and wiped it down. Satisfied that it was undamaged, I returned it to my quiver. I then transferred the animal's magic energy from Azura's Star to Slayer. After field dressing the deer, I raised one fist above my head and released a burst of white magic which quickly settled over me. Assisted by the brief enhancement to my strength, I was able to lift the buck up behind Superian's saddle and lash it down. After checking my map, I remounted the mare. We continued north to the sound of hooves crunching snow.

Superian and I had lived off the land since bidding farewell to Lucilious Marcus south of Bravil, some three days ago. The massive range of my detect life rings continued to help keep us safe, or at least let me pick and choose most of our fights. We had outrun a bear, and given wide berth to several wolves. I tried to avoid confrontations with fellow predators of the forest, but the fresh lion pelt in my pack was testimony that we couldn't always do that.

The several bandits I had detected during our journey were a different matter entirely. Having encountered the gruesome results of their profession in my travels too many times, I had no hesitation about dismounting, then stalking and killing two legged varmints. Besides, they often carried arrows to help stock my quiver.

The dead bandits I had left behind were in stark contrast to the fact that Countess Alessia Caro still lived. After all, she too had violated my doctrine. I had thought long and hard on the subject, and decided that just being mean to me or my friends was not enough to bring Slayer to bear. No, I would kill only those who posed an actual threat like that rogue mage Earana did. Or bandits. Or necromancers. While sitting by my campfire the previous night, I had revised my doctrine. It now read:

'The Buffy Doctrine: If you are kind to me, I will love you dearly; if you are a threat to me or my friends, I will likely kill you.'

After sating our thirst and filling my water bags at Lake Arrius shortly after sunrise, we had begun the climb into the cold Jeralls.

Watching Superian's swirling breath as it rose into the air, I was glad for the advice of Thernd, the guild's stable master at Equestria. I had taken the mare's saddle pad into the University and enchanted it with resist frost magic. I figured it helped her as much as the similarly enchanted ring I was wearing eased the cold for me.

As I glanced eastward at the brilliant sun, it seemed somehow false - there was certainly not much warmth from it. "We should reach Azura in another hour or so," I said to my mare and paladin. "I really hope she will help us sort out where to go next."

Sure enough, it wasn't long before the graceful stone form of Azura, with her uplifted star and moon, emerged from among the snow-covered rocks and trees. Atop the giant boulder behind her I could see the forever-burning candles of Ghola gro-Muzgol and his four comrades. They had slain the ancient vampire Dratik inside Gutted Mine. I knew their spirits were now at ease in the bosom of Azura.

Followers of the Daedra Lord noted my approach. "The Star Bearer returns." The Dunmer's words served as both greeting and announcement.

"Hail, Mels. It's good to see you again," I replied. Smiling at his companions, I added, "You too, Bur-Meema and Ralsa." I dismounted and began unlashing the buck behind Superian's saddle. "I figure you three could use some fresh venison?"

Soon, most of the deer was packed with snow to help it keep for several meals. One hindquarter however, was spitted and roasting above a crackling fire. Bur-Meema produced some flatbread, and several bottles of ale. I managed to convince her that what I really needed was a hot cup of tea to wrap my hands around.

Mels said, "Sit, and warm yourself. Tell us the news from the lowlands. Is it true that the Uriel Septim's death threatens the very unity of the Empire?"

I spent the next hour or so eating, chatting and relaying what rumors I had heard regarding the affairs of state. Such matters as the future of the Empire were well above my head. All I really knew for sure was that there was a brave man at Kvatch standing against an Oblivion Gate.

With a full belly and camp pleasantries behind me, I left the warmth of the fire and approached the towering shrine. Azura's hand of fate had touched me before - I was a Vampire Slayer. Could she now help me gain the skills and courage to become a Daedra Slayer? I looked up hopefully, and placed my hand upon the base of her pedestal.

"You are welcome here, Child of Dawn."

"Milady Azura, I come before you to beseech-"

"I know both your heart and purpose, Slayer," Azura interrupted. "You carry two spirits within you." Suddenly a butterfly fluttered over my shoulder and gently alighted on my forearm, seemingly oblivious to the cold. After a moment, it retook to the air and flew southward. Azura continued, "Follow this small winged spirit. Seek my brother who takes the form of your other spirit. He waits with uplifted wings, and can provide that which you seek. Go now, Child of Dawn."

I wandered away from the shrine, grateful that she had spoken to me, but mystified by her words. Glancing upward, the sun had completed barely half its journey across the sky. After saying farewell to Azura's followers, I mounted Superian and turned her toward the path taken by the butterfly.

"Acadian, do you have any idea what Azura meant?"

"Indeed I do," he replied with a calm confidence. "Continue south, my bowgirl."

Uplifted wings? Like this?

I loved that the folks at the Azura shrine welcomed Buffy as friend. That was the one thing I hated about a lot of the NPC's in the game - that most of them greeted you as as stranger no matter how many times you've already spoken to them. Here we see the consequences of Buffy's previous actions at the shrine.

And it's good that Buffy is flexible enough to revise the Buffy Doctrine to reflect her growing knowledge and experience with the ways of the world.

Another wonderful chapter about the blond Bosmer bowgirl from Bravil.

Character building as only Acadian knows how.


I like it. Your wisdom of the world has sure grown since we first met you in that dingy hole in the wall in the Imperial City Prison, Buffy.

So it seems giving Acadian a voice was not enough, now we need to give him form, so allow me to begin the speculation...

Schwarzenegger?

Time for a few stand-alone episodes before the beginning of Buffy's next mini-series? I was half-expecting a side-trip east to a certain shrine with a certain dragon statue. Perhaps that is still coming?

And I see you have incorporated a little thanksgiving by Buffy for her kill. Joseph Campbell could not have written it better!

And I see the Monroe Buffy Doctrine continues to evolve. A very mature decision on the part of our blond, bosmer, bowgirl, from bravil.

All I really knew for sure was that there was a brave man at Kvatch standing against an Oblivion Gate.
This single sentence speaks so much (alliteration anyone?) of Buffy's feelings for Savlian. An excellent example of how saying less can have a much more powerful effect than the opposite.

The butterfly was a nice touch. How brilliant of you to combine it with the other half of Buffy's nature (in more ways that one!). Now I see that she is indeed headed where I expected.

Before I lose my internet connection again I wanted to post this - I love Buffy's new "Screenie of the month!" So fitting for this season !!! Anyone living in Chicago may not want to look at it right now, lol. Awesome shot, Acadian!

PS - I will be back to comment on the chapter. Hopefully my connection will stabilize eventually, I think it is the wind causing the problems.


** Acadian: "Butt ... butt ..."


http://i668.photobucket.com/albums/vv43/Ac...reenShot715.jpg


"No, not that! I meant butterfly!!!"

WOO HOO!!! Acadian was prophetic !!!! Here is the butterfly leading her south to ... (another Daedric Shrine?) Great Chapter, Acadian !!!

Aww, that's nuttink! What I've got outside my window is so much more dramatic. My front stairs (half a story high) is half-buried in snow!

Bless your heart, Haute. I def feel for your situation, been watching your neck of the woods on the Weather Channel all morning !!! Hope you stay inside, warm and safe (and hope the electricity stays on) !!

Probably more like this. Specifically, the uplifted wingtips.

Yet another fun read. I especially liked the ritual of thanks to the deer. Nicely done.


That's what I love about bandits: They're so accommodating to archers.


And again we see that Buffy continues to mature. Nice change to her Doctrine.


And here we once again see the thoughtfulness that those lucky enough to be called 'Friend' by Buffy can expect from her.


Elberond tends to pick up a rock and heat it with a low level fire (on touch) spell to keep his hands warm (if he doesn't have gloves). Buffy might want to try that out some time if there isn't a warm cup of tea handy.


And not the most pressing of interests anyway.

Wow. The last part of the 'Leyawiin Expedition' was excellent. Buff and Zoga, hunting Black Bandits. Sounds like a good deal. It's too bad Buffy has a mission...And Acadian now has an audible voice! This will get interesting.

I wonder where they are off to now? perhaps another shrine? I see a couple that are south of Azura's.

Buffy made her way to Azura's Shrine in Episode 73. The bowgirl hoped the Daedra Lord could offer some guidance on how to lessen her fear and improve her skill when it came to fighting the creatures of Oblivion. Azura could read Buffy's heart and gave her cryptic instructions to proceed south. Acadian apparently understood Azura's guidance better than Buffy, for he seemed prepared to assist with navigation.

Rider- Thank you. Yes, it can be frustrating that NPCs in the game don't become friends like they do in our stories. Despite the fact that Buffy adores Daenlin for example, when she goes to replace the flowers in the ceramic vase she gave to him, he simply talks about perfect arrows and mudcrabs.

Thomas Kaira- Thanks for appreciating the flashback to one of Daenlin's hunting lessons.

SubRosa- Yes, ten or so 'bridge' episodes on her way to what will be a massive mini-series (maxi-series?). Thanks for appreciating the touch of how Buffy was trained to hunt. Thank you also for the nod to Savlian; I try to keep reinforcing that Buffy is motivated by people she cares for, not guilds, causes or governments. Her motivation regarding Kvatch will again be simply expressed in the next episode. I appreciate you seeing the butterfly dragon in Buffy - you always have.

mALX- How delightful of you to post our screenie of Buffy with her naked mare! I must admit that the shot of Buffy's butt was not exactly an intentional foreshadow of Acadian's first word. Yes, another Daedric Shrine coming up. Thank you!

The Vyper- Thanks for your insight on several quotes. We so appreciate it. Elberond has a wonderful idea of heating a rock by spell and holding it to warm his hands! Buffy loves it, and you already have her thinking about heating a rock to pre-warm her bedroll when camping in the cold!

Linara- Thank you for the kind words! I think you'll find the next episode very revealing about Acadian, and the one after that downright transformational for Buffy.

King Coin- Thanks! You're exactly right that they're on their way to a Daedric Shrine. It will prove to be the one Buffy has been searching for all along, and her last one for Book 1.

All- Thanks to everyone that mentioned Buffy's doctrine. I was hesitant to change it, but Buffy hates hypocrisy. That she allowed Fathis Aren and Alessia Caro to live after being mean to her or her friends troubled her by being inconsistent with her doctrine. She feels much better now that her doctrine better reflects her nature.

Minque and Alexander have graciously bestowed our own subforum here at chorrol upon Buffy and I, that we may archive her older threads in a central location. I have also opened what I hope will be a fun new thread there that we call 'Buffy's Basket of Potpourri'. I bring it up because the second post therein talks about Phabulous Phantoms.



"A dragon!" I breathed in amazement. The massive gray statue was undoubtedly a Daedric Shrine. I was mesmerized. A jagged dorsal fin began at the base of the skull and continued for a third the length of its graceful neck which swept up, then down into the serpentine body. And wings! Beautifully graceful wings that arced upward, longing to fly. Two powerful rear legs were poised to spring their owner skyward, while a pair of small forearms ended in prey-grasping claws. A long slender tail was coiled around the base of the statue balancing the neck's forward heft.

My mind was searching countless texts from my research about Daedric Princes. Dimly remembered pages flashed before of my eyes until one came sharply into focus:

'Peryite, also known as the Taskmaster, is the Daedric Prince whose sphere is the ordering of the lowest orders of Oblivion. Some accounts also claim his sphere is pestilence. Peryite's statue depicts a dragon, and is ostensibly concerned with ensuring all things are accounted for, neat, tidy and in their right order.'

I didn't understand what any of that meant except one word - dragon. He was beautiful! They had fascinated me since about the time I turned eighteen. While at the University, I recalled eagerly reading about them in several books, including 'Mysterious Akavir' and the 'King Edward' series. They were an Akaviri race that could fly, and closely linked to the various natural elements of destruction magic.

I continued to stare at the majestic gray dragon. Although I had read that most were red or black, Akatosh himself chose a gold dragon as his physical form. Perhaps there were other colors and varieties as well. Supposedly they were extinct, but I had my doubts about that. According to legend, they could shape-shift so how would one ever know? As I looked at Peryite, I doubted anything on Nirn could force such a beautiful and powerful race of beings out of existence.

Reluctantly, I coaxed my eyes from the dragon. Five followers stood motionless in the clearing around the statue. At first I thought they were simply mesmerized as was I, but after a time I noted they still had not moved.

Superian and I continued across the wooden bridge suspended high above the Silverfish River. The followers remained in some sort of trance or frozen state and didn't respond to my hails. With the sun fading behind me and stars beginning to appear overhead, I approached the shrine. Even astride Superian, I felt tiny beneath the gaze of the statue. As I touched the cold stone, Peryite's deep voice perfectly matched the powerful dragon it resonated from.

"This one moves! But wait. There are three. What has Azura sent me? A wood elf archer, small and underfed? A dark horse built for speed? No, it is this third presence that intrigues me. Speak, Dragonrider."

I was completely confused but, at my paladin's silent urging, kept my mouth shut. He responded for us aloud. "My name is Acadian, Milord. I am - or rather was - a humble knight in the Order of the Ice Dragons. We served the Graybeards."

"You date yourself, knight," Peryite replied. "It has been a very long time since an ice dragon flew above Nirn." I was feeling smaller every moment, as the Daedra Lord continued, "Your dragon must have been powerful indeed, for the presence is still strong. A name?"

"Phantom, Milord," said Acadian. "She and I perished together centuries ago, far to the north."

"The spirit of a dragon is immortal," Peryite mused. "I see she has sustained you. It must be true what they say about the bond between a dragonrider and my kin. I have never had the fortune. Nevertheless, I accept and honor the spirit of this sister called Phantom. What can I do for you, knight?"

I continued to be quite sure that keeping my mouth shut was the best course of action as my fingers nervously tangled into the familiar comfort of Superian's mane. Why didn't I know all this about my paladin?

Acadian replied to Peryite, "The elf, who now sustains what remains of Phantom and I, seeks your wisdom, Milord. Her quest is to help free Kvatch from the siege imposed by one of your fellow Princes. She requires the courage and skill to confront the denizens of the Deadlands."

"What say you, elf?" My heart quickened to realize the dragon was addressing me. "Why do you embark on such a quest? Fortune? Fame?"

"I-I do it for a man, Milord. His name is Savlian Matius."

"I sense truth in your words, elf. I will not openly confront Dagon; however, it would not displease me to see order restored to your plane. I would ask a service of you. If you survive, I expect you will gain that which you seek."

I took a deep breath. "How may I serve you, Milord?"

"You have seen my followers," the dragon's deep voice began. "They are an embarrassment to me. The fools cast a spell in the hopes of summoning me to them. It was prideful and foolish, and it has had its consequences. They are now trapped between worlds; their bodies here on this plane, their souls in Oblivion. I would have you reunite the bodies and the souls. I will transport you to the plane of Oblivion in which they are trapped. Find their souls. When all are collected, I will return you here. Prepare yourself to battle Daedra, and return only if you are ready to enter my plane."

I felt overwhelmed, almost numb, as I turned Superian into the clearing in front of the shrine and slid to the ground. I would make camp near Peryite's silent sentries.

After filling several water bags from the nearby Silverfish River, I dragged a slaughterfish that had interrupted my bath back to the campfire. While eating and checking my equipment, I finally dared think about the day's revelations.

I now began to realize why dragons had fascinated me since shortly after I met Acadian. The perceptive Boderi Farano had nicknamed me her 'butterfly dragon'. Before we had left the Black Mare Lodge, Acadian said that he had ridden mounts much larger than Superian. Dagail, Azura and Peryite all seemed to know more about my paladin than I.

Finally I blurted out, "Would it hurt to have told me more about you? Did you somehow forget to mention that you used to fly dragons and now you partially are one? You've always accepted me unconditionally, yet it seems you doubt my ability to return the favor and feel obliged to keep secrets from me." I blinked back my stupid tears. Why did I feel like crying when I was so angry? "You're a part of my very being, yet others know more about you than I. Can you understand how that hurts me?"

"Forgive me, my bowgirl, for I see I have failed you again. I feared that the more you knew of me, the more influence I would exert. I am ancient, and my story is history - best left to gather dust. You are young and the story of your life is still to unfold. I confess that I have helped you in minor ways, but I've always wanted the path you traveled to be your own."

"What do you mean about influencing me?" I said, beginning to calm down. "You've never forced your will upon me."

"How do you heal, Buffy?"

"By laying on of hands. . . like a paladin." My eyes opened wide. "Because of you?"

"Yes," he said. "It was never my intent, nor something I willingly caused. Nevertheless, it is my fault."

"You speak as if it is a curse, my paladin. Being an empathic healer is a blessing. If the ability comes from you, I welcome it and thank you for it."

"After centuries with Phantom, she and I are indistinguishable and I fear inflicting that upon you. Yet as Boderi clearly senses, you are already affected by the dragon spirit."

"Again, you speak of these things as a curse," I said. "Don't you know that I welcome your presence? The fact that it is bound to that of a dragon matters not. I accept you unconditionally - I learned that from you." I managed a smile. "For Mara's sake, I take you with me even when I go to pee. You're a part of me, like the blood that flows within my veins. I will not withdraw from you, my paladin, nor will I keep secrets - and I expect the same from you."

"Agreed."

"Fine." I sat quietly looking into the campfire in front of me. Eventually, my thoughts returned to the fearful task ahead.

Acadian apparently sensed that my anger and hurt was now turning to apprehension. He broke the silence. "Are you willing to accept Peryite's task then?"

I figured I had beaten Acadian up enough for one evening and had to smile at his obvious desire to let his history 'gather dust'. "Will you come with me?"

"Of course," he replied.

"Then, yes. After all, it's what I asked for, right?" I gulped. "In the morning, we'll enter Peryite's plane of Oblivion. I'm going to need our dragon spirit as we go into the very den of my nightmares."

Another almost new chapter !!! I love the changes you made to the original chapter ... and the promise of more changes the dialogue foreshadows - GAAAAAH !!! I can't wait to see the new line unfold !!!


Believe it or not, I have a nit, lol. In this paragraph you have Buffy's thoughts wedged into the middle of Peryite's dialogue - just a bit confusing, brought the flow of immersion up abruptly till I sorted it out.

"You date yourself, knight," Peryite replied. "It has been a very long time since an ice dragon flew above Nirn." I was feeling smaller every moment. "Your dragon must have been powerful indeed, for the presence is still strong. A name?"

AWESOME CHAPTER !!! I will be on the edge of my seat with all these changes !!!

Ahhh, we learn more of Acadian our paladin! How rewarding!

A Dragonrider, indeed. Did he disappear between with Phantom? I can't help but thinking of a certain series featuring noble dragonriders and their even more noble dragons.

Buffy's hurt over being the last to learn of Acadian's history is very palpable here. Makes me feel you got the butt end of that at least once IRL. Again you capture the swirling emotions of a young woman very well.

What a very intriguing background you have given us for Acadian and Phantom (plus a lovely choice of terms!). It all works extremely well. Even better was Buffy's reaction to being the last to know about it all! That was so very realistic on her part. All in all a good, quiet episode that is yet filled with revelatory action!

Yet another fun read. Peryite is one of my favorite Daedric Princes. Ironically, his quest is one of my least favorite.


Indeed, it's hard to look away. The statue almost seems alive.


Quite understandable. Being the conduit in a conversation between a Daedric Prince and a dragon riding Paladin of the ancient world must make one feel like an ant in a valley between two mountain ranges.


Well, the Elder Scrolls tell of the return of dragons after Oblivion opens and the sons of Skyrim spill their own blood. Maybe Peryite will be able to manifest on Nirn and finally know the bond between rider and mount?


I think Buffy already has the courage and the skill she needs. Now, she just needs the confidence to go with it.


So now the question arises: Is it Acadian's influence brought out the dragon spirit in Buffy, or the dragon spirit that drew Acadian to Buffy? I wonder...


Nice explanation on the origin of her healing abilities.


Well said, Buffy! Well said.


Lol, who else but our beloved bowgirl could so chastise an ancient Paladin?


The next chapter should be quite interesting indeed.

What's this? Don't be going soft on us now, paladin! Buffy may have let this rest for now, but don't think for one second I will.

The discussion between Peryite and Acadian was quite enlightening... and mysterious. Makes me want to know more about the now immortal dragonrider, and about his companion Phantom. Mephala is spinning her threads now! Perhaps you should pay her a visit next? (though you probably won't do her quest, since it entails cold-blooded murder.)



ARGH! It's... the F word! Thankfully, you managed to salvage the situation by the time it was dropped, so at least you can rest easy knowing Buffy will still be speaking to you over the week.

In Episode 74, Buffy arrived at Peryite's Shrine, where she learned more about dragons - including the one whose spirit is bound to Acadian. Quite hurt by how much she did not know about her paladin, she angrily admonished him not to keep secrets. Peryite offered Buffy the opportunity to improve her skill at fighting Daedra. She now seems ready to enter his plane and face her fears.

mALX- Thank you so much! Acadian's background will not be center stage again for a long time, but it will come up occasionally and is just more depth on who and what he is. Thanks for pointing out that paragraph that caused you some concern. I made a minor adjustment that I hope helps preserve the flow.

Rider- Although I have seen the term dragonrider used in the titles of books and games, I have done no research on them. The only major fictional works that I have intentionally used to influence our story that I am aware of are Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the Clan of the Cave Bear series. I know our reference to Phantom is obvious. Thank you so much for your kind words on our efforts to capture Buffy's confusion, hurt and even anger.

SubRosa- Acadian's background was conceived quite some time ago, and we've dropped a few dragon hints along the way. We have a distant storyline (well beyond Book 1) planned in the province of Skyrim. I have mixed emotions about the announcement that TES V will take place in Skyrim. On one hand, I look forward to the possibilities it now offers; on the other hand, I am apprehensive about how much TES V lore will cause my plans to change and adjust - specifically how they will portray the Graybeards, dragons and Kyne. I'll just have to wait and see. I have tentatively moved Buffy's distant Valenwood storyline to precede visiting Skyrim to give us more time to sort it out. Part of me sure wishes TES V was in Hammerfell or Blackwood! Thank you for the kind words!

The Vyper- I appreciate your style of offering insight on specific passages and find it very helpful. Thank you. Let me address only a couple of your wonderful comments-

Buffy chastising Acadian. Although Acadian has rebuked the bowgirl on more than one occasion, he has certainly learned that Buffy requires the last word; even more so when that last word is 'Fine'. He admits that this is the natural birthright prerogative of a woman, just like changing her mind or owning fifty pairs of shoes.

Was Acadian drawn to the dragon in Buffy, or was it the dragon bound to Acadian that gradually imbued her spirit into Buffy? 'Tis the latter. When the energy of he and his dragon entered that magical Imperial Prison cell window in search of a new 'host', Acadian was quite chagrined to find that he had joined into the swirling mess of confusion that was the adolescent mind of Buffy. As Dagail surmised so long ago, he would likely have preferred his normal fare of a young knight or perhaps a sturdy ranger to mentor. As a paladin however, he has a firm grip on the word 'commitment', and has learned to accept the bowgirl without condition, just as she accepts him. What he wasn't fully prepared for however, was the magic that is Buffy and how it would cause such a profound blending of dragon, paladin and bowgirl.

Thomas Kaira- Thank you! I appreciate you cuing on Buffy's use of 'Fine'. Acadian regrets ever letting her talk to dear treydog's fiery Athynae. Buffy stands under the shadow of the last Daedric Shrine she will need to visit in Book 1. This next episode is the culmination of her evolving fascination with these Shrines. What she learns in Peryite's realm will be transformational for Buffy and represents a giant step closer to Kvatch.



Waves of dry heat welcomed me to Peryite's realm. Within seconds, I was reaching for an arrow as a clannfear - straight from my nightmares - charged. My Slayer-propelled arrow jerked the Daedra to a stop momentarily as a pair of his brethren quickly caught up to him. An emerald burst of illusion magic swirled from my fingertips into the massive shield-like head of clannfear number two. Almost instantly I tossed a sphere of magic into the air which erupted above my head. As the glow descended over me, I disappeared from sight and the bones of a skeleton appeared to take my place.

The clannfear under my command, along with the skeleton I had summoned, occupied the other two Daedra for the moment. I poisoned an arrow and nocked it. As I drew tension, my bow and hands reappeared in front of me. One clannfear had survived the melee and immediately turned his attention toward me.

Slayer stunned the Daedra as my hand shot over my shoulder for the tail of another arrow. The badly wounded and poisoned clannfear shook off the sparks that arced around his armored head and resumed the charge. With a calmness that surprised me, I stood my ground, pulled silk to cheek and loosed again. Before I could chase the arrow with a spell that would briefly immobilize my foe, the song of Azura's Star announced the fight was over.

While waiting for my pounding heart to subside, I slowly scanned my surroundings. Within the considerable range of my magic rings, I could see several pink glows, but none close by. Streaks of lightning bolted across a red and black sky that was filled with ominously shifting clouds. Nonstop rolling thunder provided noisy camouflage for prey and predator alike. Flames erupted irregularly from angry rivers and lakes of molten liquid that bubbled and hissed. These lava flows were the source of the unrelenting heat that seemed to bake even the rocks.

I was reminded of the image Acadian had shown me, as well as my brief venture inside the flaming gate at Kvatch. Part of me wished that Savlian Matius would burst through the portal behind me and, once again, snatch me back to the safety of Cyrodiil. "Welcome, Buffy, to Oblivion," I whispered in awe.

Yes, I was scared - but filled with exhilaration as well. This is what I wanted, after all. My nightmares of clannfears had always ended with their vicious beaks looming large while I tried to emit a scream that never came. I would awaken at that point, thrashing and shuddering at the thought of my flesh being torn from me and eaten. I tried to remind myself that my own skills were now considerable, and of how hard I had worked to improve them. I figured there was a fine line between confidence and terror; as I looked at the three dead nightmares before me, I hoped I would find that line here.

Pondering my course, I realized that this land was vast and confusing. There were no moons, stars, nor sun to guide me. It didn't matter. I carried plenty of full water bags, potions, poisons, a very full quiver and even a small supply of food. I had no map of this plane, but wasn't worried about precise navigation. I knew Acadian could help me locate the missing souls of Peryite's followers, but finding them wasn't my primary purpose here. I intended to hunt down every Daedra in this realm.

*

And hunt I did. Scamps, fire atronachs, clannfears, even Dremora.

Before the end of the first day, my sweat-soaked buckskin greaves and long-sleeved blouse came off. I allowed them to quickly dry in the baking heat as I donned my Arena raiment - at least my skin could breathe a bit better. I made a note to craft a powerful resist fire ring if I ever made it back to the University.

In what I estimated to be the several days that followed, I learned the strengths and weaknesses of Daedra. Scamps and atronachs threw spells that were easy to dodge. My arrows were much faster than their fireballs. Atronachs were immune to poison, but I had a spell that could strip that ability from them. Clannfears were frighteningly fast, but not when I drained their speed or controlled their minds.

Most Daedra were dispatched by Slayer from a stealthy distance. My specialty as a mage, of course, was illusion. When I encountered groups, I would trick and confuse them into turning upon their own. During the few close encounters I had, I used magic to calm, command, frighten or immobilize my enemies; that gave me the several seconds of safety I needed to bring Slayer to bear.

Despite the ever-threatening sky, there was no wind here - nor were there any trees or overhanging branches. Exploiting these facts, I experimented with a new archery tactic. I would fire a high angle arrow. As it arced gracefully overhead, I would carefully time the release of a second arrow using a flat trajectory. With practice I could cause both to strike the same or different targets simultaneously.

I learned to survive in this hostile land that had no day or night. When exhaustion demanded it, I even managed short periods of sleep. The plants were either dead or dangerous, but I discovered how to safely harvest some of them for poisons. The flesh of Daedra, while as foul tasting as rat meat, could be carefully cooked over the abundant flows of lava and sustain me. I realized that the limitation to my time here would be my water bags.

Huge pyres, billowing clouds of black smoke, marked the scattered locations of Peryite's followers. I was relieved to learn that freeing their souls did not require me to kill them; simply touching their ethereal presence in this plane would send their spirits back to the gray dragon of the Daedra Lord. As I located and freed each of them, I added a notch to a piece of spiddal stick in order to help me keep track.

At one point, I had to travel through an underground cave system, but it was no cooler under this realm than on its surface.

Atop a small tower, I found the only source of refreshment - a pair of small fountains. One bubbled forth blood, causing a brief wave of fear to grip me. Were there Daedric vampires? Based on my reading, I didn't think so and I had certainly not sensed the presence of any. Regardless, I ignored that fountain. The other however, offered a magical blue liquid that was reasonably pleasant to the taste. I drained that one.

Even after freeing all five souls of Peryite's followers, I continued hunting until the beasts of this realm became scarce and my water ran low. I was no longer paralyzed with fear at the thought of Daedra. Even the clannfears of my nightmares now fell to my newly honed skills and confidence.

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.

*

With my back to the magic portal that would return me to Cyrodiil, I raised Slayer to the lightning-filled sky in both victory and challenge. I then turned and passed through the archway of shimmering blue light.

Breathing deeply of the deliciously cool air, and basking in welcome sunshine, I barely noticed that Peryite's followers were now actively worshipping the gray dragon.

I went straight to Superian and gave her a hug. She welcomed me, but snorted with flaring nostrils as she bounced her head. I could see why - days of dried sweat, Daedra innards and singed reminders of fireballs passing too closely. "Oh my, I guess you're probably right. I'm sure I don't smell very good."

I then made my way down the short distance to the Silverfish River, pausing only long enough to drop my bow, quiver, and pack before wading into the cool water up to my neck. After drinking my fill, I removed my raiment and tossed it up to the shore. After a long, luxurious swim, I retrieved a pair of vials containing soap and shampoo, then scrubbed the last few days from my body and hair. Finally, I climbed out of the river and sat on its bank to dry in the sun while I combed some conditioner through my hair.

Whatever trinket that Peryite had in mind for returning the souls of his followers would pale in comparison to the lessons this realm had wrought upon me. "Acadian, thanks for believing in me and helping to navigate inside that confusing place. After we finish here, let's go right back across this river to the Imperial Bridge Inn. I need to sleep in a bed, with real sheets, pillows and everystuff."

"Everything," corrected Acadian with a light humor.

I jumped to my feet and planted both hands on my hips. With feigned indignation, I quipped, "And just exactly who appointed you as keeper of my speech? I said everystuff and that's what I meant. You know, maybe a savory meal seated at a real table with some wine, hopefully a nice room that has a thick carpet to curl my toes into. And some clean, soft sheets." I started to stick my tongue out but stopped, realizing that I was still quite naked. I quickly started gathering my things and dressing.

Acadian's response was equally playful. "Was it not just recently you asked for more communication from me, Buffy? Would you now deign to select my subjects?"

I opened my mouth to speak, then closed it. Not one to give Acadian the last word however, I then said, "Fair enough. Yes, I always want you to talk to me. You're a part of me; if someone were to put on one of my rings and look at us, they would only see one pink glow."

The old voice replied, "Let me say then, I'm quite pleased we're still alive. You've become quite the Daedra Slayer, no?"

"Thank you, my paladin. Maybe those nightmares will stop now."

As I climbed the hill to report to Peryite, I added with a dreamy smile, "We're getting a real bed tonight Acadian, did you hear me?"

The entire time in the land of Peryite was wonderfully described and well written. I felt as if I was there, and I was rooting for Buffy to eliminate every last daedra from that place.

It was quite the trial by fire, but Buffy emerged stronger and more confident. And that's a good thing. Usually.

But it was this that made the entire chapter for me: The growing relationship between Acadian and Buffy is delightfully summed up in these two paragraphs.

This chapter feels exactly as I remember it, and Buffy facing her nightmares and emerging stronger for it - Awesome, just as I remember it !!

Now I need to see if I can pull that off.

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.
Buffy is so impressive!

“You know, maybe a savory meal seated at a real table with some wine, hopefully a nice room that has a thick carpet to curl my toes into. And some clean, soft sheets.”
And she’s still Buffy!

Lots of tactical information to digest here. ‘How to Rule the Deadlands,’ by Buffy. Savlian will not believe that this is the same bowgirl he once bodily hauled back through a Gate!

Nit, if you can believe I saw one:
The flesh of Daedra, while as foul tasting as rat meat, could be carefully cooked over the abundant flows of lave and sustain me.
I suspect it should say lava.

And by the way, calmly cooking and eating Daedra meat? Go Buffy!!!

Here endeth Act 2.

Buffy has now found the skills and strength needed to survive in the hellish world of the Deadlands, as well as teaching herself techniques and strategies for Daedra slaying. I would most definitely say that she is ready for whatever lurks behind the Gate in Kvatch.



Now now, Acadian, don't be encouraging her to F-bomb you again!

As for Peryites reward, Spellbreaker seemed like a pretty heavy shield, so I'm not sure if Buffy will find much use for it. By the same token I doubt she'll care. She got what she wanted wandering Peryite's hunting grounds, and her skills have now been honed to deadly precision.

Hircine would be proud of you, B.

Such a wonderful, action-packed opening! Here we see Buffy showing off not only all the tricks that she has learned to effortlessly defeat three clannfears, but also demonstrating the poise she has gained after much hard-earned experience. And nary a drop of pee in her anywhere! And I see she has also added a new trick (the High-Low Shot?) to her arsenal.

pulled silk to cheek and loosed again
This is a wonderful phrase!

The flesh of Daedra, while as foul tasting as rat meat, could be carefully cooked over the abundant flows of lave and sustain me.
Ewwww! One more reason Teresa is happily a vegetarian!

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.
Yes indeed. Buffy has finally reached the end of her need to visit daedric shrines as well, I should think.

And last, but certainly not least, a bath in the river. How did I know that was coming?

Nits:
There were no moons, stars{,} nor sun to guide me.
I am thinking that you lost a comma during edits where I inserted it.

Catching up on Buffy’s adventures is a brutal reminder of how much time I have missed. I can’t get fully caught up in one sitting, but I wanted to comment on what I have read so far. Hope you don’t mind wading through large blocks of text:

Chapter 59:

I loved the way that Buffy continued to pour spells into the rat, bouncing it along the cavern floor. That mirrors another occasion when fear and surprise kept her pouring spells into a zombie (or was it a skeleton?) long after it was dead. It seems that old habits really do die hard (sorry hautee). I also got a nice chuckle out of her description of slaughterfish as ‘life support systems for teeth.’ And the fact that she refuses to engage the bear is just another of those small details that make Buffy so endearing.

Chapter 60:

Ah Mazoga *insert contented sigh*, I loved this chapter way back when I first read it and time has done nothing to blunt the impact. Buffy exhibits an admirable and uncharacteristic self-control during her conversation with the orc. Nothing says ‘everlasting friendship’ like the desire to throttle someone upon that first meeting.

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that so many of us here see Count Leyawiin as a decent (albeit ineffectual) man married to the biggest harpy in Tamriel. I look forward to the moment when Countess Alessia’s actions make Buffy savor the chance to cast stark reality upon her.

Chapter 61:

Buffy’s excursion to the Shrine of Nocturnal bears unexpected fruit. There appears to be madness to Acadian’s method. The location of Fisherman’s Rock gave Buffy the leverage to sway Mazoga, and her retrieval of the Eye gave her the leverage to sway Weebum-Na. I’m not sure that I (or Acadian for that matter) approve of her threats against Bejeen, but we both accept that Buffy is no saint. Isn’t it funny how an encounter with a mountain lion is all that is needed to redeem her in our eyes?

The irony in this statement is simply staggering! I wonder what Savlian would have to say about that! Excuse me Miss Pot (er Buffy), you are officially black!

"As I climbed the hill to report to Peryite, I added with a dreamy smile, "We're getting a real bed tonight Acadian, did you hear me?"
Are you guys sleeping together?

This is maybe my favorite chapter. Buffy grows up, at least as a predator.

You're welcome! And thank you for taking the time to clarify things a bit for me and for brining us all such a wonderful story to follow.

With a calmness that surprised me, I stood my ground, pulled silk to cheek and loosed again.
Isn't it amazing how you can be as jittery as a frightened squirrel before a battle, but as calm as a gentle breeze in the middle of one?

Nonstop rolling thunder provided noisy camouflage for prey and predator alike.
Don't start thinking like that, Buffy! Remember, Daedra live in the Deadlands and are used to the constant thunder. To them, it's just "background noise" that won't even register unless they're actually paying attention to it. If you're not careful, they'll be able to hear your footsteps through that racket as easily as a bandit would in a silent cave. Stay stealthy!

Part of me wished that Savlian Matius would burst through the portal behind me and, once again, snatch me back to the safety of Cyrodiil.
I can't blame Buffy for feeling that way. The first time one of my characters entered an Oblivion gate, I thought we'd wandered into Dante's Inferno.

Yes, I was scared - but filled with exhilaration as well.
Ah, the mix of fear and exhilaration that comes from being on the edge of disaster. Who can count the many warriors that have felt the same?

I figured there was a fine line between confidence and terror; as I looked at the three dead nightmares before me, I hoped I would find that line here.
I have a feeling that those nightmares will be far less frequent now.

I intended to hunt down every Daedra in this realm.
Very good, Buffy! The best way to fight your fears is to confront them directly. I used to be afraid of heights. Then I went skydiving and got over it.

I made a note to craft a powerful resist fire ring if I ever made it back to the University.
Very handy in the Deadlands, but it won't protect you from lava. So don't go swimming!

In what I estimated to be the several days that followed, I learned the strengths and weaknesses of Daedra.
Now Buffy is truly a student of war! Learning to overcome your enemies' strengths and exploit their weaknesses is a bit of an art. Putting that knowledge into practice can be a very heady felling indeed.

Despite the ever-threatening sky, there was no wind here - nor were there any trees or overhanging branches. Exploiting these facts, I experimented with a new archery tactic.
Buffy is truly thinking like a warrior here: Her normal strategy is to strike from cover, but that's sometimes very lacking in the Deadlands. So what does she do? She comes up with a tactic that turns the lack of cover into an advantage! Well Done, Buffy!

Finally, I realized that the once timid prey was now the predator. My work here was done.
Indeed. And quite an effective predator at that.

"Let me say then, I'm quite pleased we're still alive. You've become quite the Daedra Slayer, no?"
Lol, I can see the playwrights of Cyrodiil penning a new dramatic play: Buffy, the Daedra Slayer.

Edit- Odd. For some reason, the 'Quote' tags aren't working right. (at least, they don't appear to be on my screen)

Okay, caught up on another fanfic. Busy week of reading, let me tell ya'! But enough about that, on to Buffy!

I must first congratulate you on crafting such a wonderful story, with unbelievably believable characters and a magnificent narrative. The Whedon-inspired portions are icing on the proverbial cake for myself (doubt it? just look at my handle ), but you truly make it come alive as your own.

Your dealings with the various Daedra lords are truly inspired. I always hated the "Find Daedra Lord, give offering, do quest, collect useful thing" nature of their quests. Buffy's deeper motives are tune of my own heart, something I truly enjoy.

In Episode 75, Buffy entered Peryite's plane of Oblvion and faced her nightmares. A frightened bowgirl entered the burning realm, but a confident Daedra Slayer emerged.

Rider- Thank you for rooting for Buffy! And thanks also for appreciating the unique and growing relationship between she and her paladin.

mALX- Thank you! I swear Buffy has a masochistic streak! When something terrifies her, she seems to seek it out.

King Coin- You and I have tested the high/low trajectory simultaneous impact trick, and the game mechanics don't really support it. Historically however, it has successfully been used by both archers and artillery.

Grits- Thank you. Buffy the Daedra Slayer - but she still likes to sip Tamika's and curl up in clean sheets! Thanks for pointing out that nit so I could fix it.

Thomas Kaira- Thank you so much for the vote of confidence that Buffy is getting ready for that Oblivion Gate! Spellbreaker will likely end up on display with several other Daedric artifacts at the Mystic Archives.

SubRosa- Thank you for the kind words as we unabashedly tried to show how far the mystic archer bowgirl has come. On the Daedra flesh, ewww is right, but Buffy figured out that chewing on the Oblivion plant life was even worse! Yes! Finally she can stop traipsing around after Daedric Shrines, at least for the rest of Book 1. Thanks for your help with that nit.

Destri- A hearty welcome back to you, my friend! Thank you for the kind words. I loved that you picked up on Buffy being peeved that Mazoga did not follow her instruction against the backdrop of her own irresponsibly impetuous inability to follow Savlian's orders.

MyCat- Thank you for the joke about Buffy and Acadian sleeping together! It was indeed our intent for the reader to ponder that very question and conclude that they are a single pink glow sharing one frail elven body, and that their bound spirits transcend the considerations of flesh. They both wish the same thing for Buffy's heart: that she discover more than Daedra at Kvatch. Thank you also for your fabulously kind words on Buffy's growth.

The Vyper- Thank you for the wonderful comments! I'm so glad you appreciate the bowgirl's ability to (when given time to think about it) come up with creative and innovative plans and tactics. She was so proud that her own pee was not among the disgusting things all over her Arena raiment coming out of Peryite's realm.

Captain Hammer- A warm welcome to Buffy's world! I deeply appreciate you taking the time to catch up and grace us with such a comforting comment. Yes, once one gets beyond the tongue-in-cheek name, Buffy sees her world and those who inhabit it in rich and complex colors. Thank you again and I hope we can continue to earn your readership.



I waited nervously with both hands folded in my lap. As I looked across the desk at Headmaster Raminus Polus, I had no idea what his response would be to my plea for assistance.

The Imperial had listened intently as I spoke of the flaming Oblivion Gate. I described the Daedra that poured forth to be intercepted by the brave efforts of Kvatch's small force of defenders. I had been careful not to leave out the plight of our own mage, Sigrid, and the fate of her guildhall. Raminus now leaned back, his elbows resting on the arms of his large chair. Above steepled fingers, his hazel eyes gazed thoughtfully at the intricate designs crafted into the ceiling of his office. The simple guild-issue blue robe draping his shoulders attested to his humility, while belying the considerable authority he wielded.

Raminus broke the silence. "Buffy, have you asked the Elder Council for help?"

"No, Master Wizard. They have ignored the requests of Captain Matius. Do you think they would listen, or even grant audience, to a young wood elf from Bravil?"

I'm sure Raminus saw the pleading exasperation in my eyes, because his emotionless face creased into a gentle smile. "Well, I prefer to think of you as a promising young Apprentice of the Mages Guild, but your point is taken." He placed his palms on the desk. "It's true that Imperial battlemages answer to the Council of Mages, much the same way that city guards report to local county lords." The middle aged Imperial ran a hand through his black hair that was laced with streaks of gray - no doubt caused by the requests and antics of Apprentices such as myself. "However," he continued, "I won't have battlemages used as fodder. Could this Captain Matius put any assistance we provide to effective use? Does he know what he's doing up there?"

"Know what he's doing?" Bristling as I repeated the Headmaster's words, I started to aggressively come forward in my chair. I then stopped and took a deep breath. Compose yourself, Buffy. You can better defend Savlian without anger. I forced myself to settle back in the chair and unclench my jaw. Weeks of playing court games in Leyawiin had improved my discretion when it came to choosing words and controlling impulses. "How many Daedra from that gate have made it past Captain Matius to threaten the rest of Cyrodiil? I think the answer to that is proof he knows what he's doing. Consider how long he's been holding that line. Does that not speak sufficiently to his leadership and ability to effectively use limited resources? Savlian Matius has the heart of a lion and the soul of a hero; he simply needs more help, Master Wizard."

Raminus slowly nodded his head, seemingly satisfied by my words. "And what is your role in this?"

"I'm going to close that gate." The words just fell out of my mouth before I could stop them. They were true enough, but I had never dared utter them before. "Savlian needs assistance to maintain a defensive perimeter until that portal from Oblivion can be destroyed. He will then need that same help to retake Kvatch from the Daedra that siege it from within."

"Buffy, do you know anything about closing an Oblivion Gate?" His smile was one an indulgent parent might offer an ignorant child. "I know you've had some dealings running errands for Daedra Lords before, but do you have any idea the power they wield?"

I could see I would have to work for this. Thankful for having read most of the books that filled the shelves in Raminus' office, I also recalled the words of the Bravilian black marketeer, Ungarion. I took a deep breath and began my lecture. "A portal to an Oblivion Plane is maintained by the power of a sigil stone - a purified morpholith that has been inscribed by a Daedra Lord. Removing the stone closes the portal." I reached down into my pack nestled on the floor beside me.

The words 'sigil stone' had their intended effect. Raminus had dropped the indulgent smile and his eyes were open wide. "You have clearly done more research than I gave you credit f-"

The Imperial stopped in mid sentence as my hand emerged from my pack displaying Azura's Star. I placed the artifact on the desk in front of him. Fishing into the pack two more times, I added Meridia's Ring of Khajiiti, and Nocturnal's Skeleton Key to the top of his desk. "I have earned the favor of numerous Daedra Lords. In fact Tar-Meena has several more of their artifacts on display at the Mystic Archives. If you ask her, I'm sure she will verify who provided them. In answer to your question, Master Wizard, I know quite a bit about Daedra Lords and their power. As you can see, my research goes a bit beyond academic study."

Raminus' mouth had opened when he saw Azura's Star, his jaw dropping lower with each object I had placed before him. Finally he closed his mouth and turned in his chair. Retrieving a book from the shelf behind him, he began leafing through it, alternatively glancing at its pages and the items on his desk. I could see the familiar title of the text, 'Tamrielic Lore'. After emitting a scholarly 'hmm' and 'ahah' several times he gestured at the items and looked at me questioningly. "May I?"

"Of course." I nodded with a smile. I had certainly struck some sort of chord, and hoped that was a good sign.

After carefully examining each item and consulting the book several more times, Raminus announced, "Yes, the texts are correct. These are just as described. From what I know of these Daedric Princes, I see Boderi Farano has not overstated the talents of her young Apprentice. Now, if you intend to close an Oblivion Gate, you realize you will have to fight Daedra?"

Again reaching into my pack, I produced several more items and added them to the growing collection on Raminus' desk: a portion of scamp skin, the claws of a clannfear and a small vial of fire salts. "I have used and discarded more of these than I can recall, Master Wizard." Finally, I added a package wrapped in oilcloth that was slightly larger than a man's fist.

Raminus chuckled, "That pack of yours is just full of surprises. So are you, it seems." Focusing on the package, he pulled it closer and began unwrapping the oilcloth. His eyes opened wide as he involuntarily leaned back and released his breath in a quiet whistle. "A heart?"

"Dremora," I said quietly.

Raminus picked up a quill and poked at the object, carefully examining without allowing his fingers to touch it. His interest in the bloody organ seemed so academic. He still didn't get how serious I was, or the life and death nature of the struggle at Kvatch. I bit my lower lip and contemplated my next move. I was out of helpful things in my pack to plop on his desk to further convince him, but. . . I did have one more arrow in my quiver of tools to persuade Raminus. This 'arrow' was a verbal one. I nocked the shock-enchanted words to my tongue and loosed them.

"The Daedra I encountered inside Peryite's plane included two Dremora. I cut their hearts out." Pointing at the dark red object on the desk, I continued, "This is one of them; I ate the other."

My verbal arrow found its mark. The impact caused Raminus to drop his quill and stare at me in disbelief. "Wha- why? By the Nine!"

"Master Wizard, your knowledge of magic is unmatched, but do you understand what it takes to provide the meat that graces your table? Have you ever stalked a deer or faced down the charge of a boar?"

"No. No I haven't," said Raminus. His eyes remained fixed on the Dremora heart sitting before him.

"I learned to hunt as a child. My archery master taught me the old Bosmeri ways. By eating the heart of your prey you honor their death, gain insight into their nature and absorb some of their power. I don't ask that you understand the mindset of a predator; simply that you take me seriously. I know there will be Daedra blocking my path. They will not stop me."

Raminus silently rewrapped the heart and pushed it toward me. After a moment, he spoke solemnly, "As Akatosh is my witness, I believe you may indeed be the one to close that gate, Buffy. I will support your effort. My voice as Steward however, is but one on the Council of Mages. Can you help me convince Arch Mage Traven and the rest of the Council?"

My pulse quickened. "Of course, Master Wizard. What can I do to improve the outcome?"

"Buffy, there is a matter that preoccupies the Council of Mages and must be addressed first. I fear it may involve danger, but," he made a sweeping gesture at the items on his desk, "likely far less than that involved in garnering this. . . ah, collection."

Was this a trick? Did the Headmaster mean what he said, or was he simply using my desperation as a means to get some task accomplished? I studied the face across the desk. Raminus had always been kind, wise and supportive of my ways. I saw those same things in his eyes now. I liked and wanted to trust this man. Besides, I didn't really have many options other than to cooperate. "I will proudly serve my guild in any manner you wish, Master Wizard."

A warm smile rewarded my compliant trust. "Buffy, we never asked you to complete the traditional pilgrimage that students go through to retrieve wood for their mage's staff." Raminus glanced at Slayer, now leaning against the wall of his office. "Boderi and I felt the staff of a bow was all you needed in this regard. The wood for a mage's staff comes from a hidden grove tended by two of our mages, Zahrasha and Eletta." Raminus' eyes narrowed. "Several days ago, I sent our newest student to retrieve the wood for his staff. He has not returned. Of equal concern, neither Zahrasha nor Eletta have reported to the University for their scheduled resupply of provisions."

Master Wizard Raminus Polus leaned forward, locked his eyes onto mine and continued, "Wellspring Cave, east of the city, is the entrance to the grove." With that, he stood, ending our meeting. "I have a new class of young mages to welcome." He gathered some texts and turned to leave. "Be careful, Buffy."

After retrieving my things from Raminus' desk, I grabbed my pack, quiver and Slayer. I then made my way from the University's central tower across campus to the Mystic Archives. Upstairs, I met Boderi Farano waiting for me with a pot of tea.

"Well, how did it go?" inquired the Dunmeri battlemage. She motioned to a nearby bench and we both sat.

As we sipped tea, I told my University advisor and friend all about the meeting with Raminus.

Boderi listened intently until I finished, then smiled thoughtfully. "The Imperial City wasn't built in a day. Stone by stone you are building your path. I'm delighted to see you mastering patience and carefully using words to achieve your purpose." A playful sparkle illuminated her beautiful red eyes. "Now, my butterfly dragon, did you really eat the heart of a Dremora, or was that just a masterful stroke of calculating your words for a desired effect?"

I lowered my teacup, cocked my head at Boderi and smiled sweetly. "Would I do that?"

Between Buffy's bag of tricks with everything but the kitchen sink in it - and Polus with a dumbfounded look on his face - this chapter was and remains among my faves! Great Write - AWESOME Chapter !!!

Yes, I remember Buffy's never-ending bag of tricks here. And that verbal arrow of hers was the most effective of all!

It looks like you tightened and polished this chapter up a bit, which only makes a great chapter even better.

Buffy spoke true when she spoke to Matius's abilities. Julian was nodding heartfelt agreement through that entire bit! You go, girl (and paladin)!

"I'm going to close that gate." The words just fell out of my mouth before I could stop them.
Yep, that is our Buffy!

I know there will be Daedra blocking my path. They will not stop me.
I wanted to cheer when I read this. Buffy throws down on the Master Wizard! What a journey she has taken to have come this far!

I loved this episode back in the BF 1.0, and still do. It is the reaping of so much work that Buffy has done before. Like the previous episode in Peryite's realm, it again demonstrates the steel that has now been tempered within our blond, bosmer, bravilian, bowgirl.

Also as before, I once again like the presentation of Raminus Polus. Much like in the TF, we see him as a humble man, who clearly takes his duties very seriously.

The Imperial City wasn't built in a day.
An excellent ES-ized version of the old saying!

Priceless reaction!

The Green Pact also decrees that all Bosmer be strictly carnivorous. Since Buffy is truly serious about closing that gate, it actually does seem that offering faith to Y'ffre may be quite helpful for her in there.

That was an excellent start to Act 3, Acadian. You've put everything into perspective and recapped everything important that Buffy has learned, every obstacle she has overcome, and left the reader hungering for more. I know I am.

Finally managed to register here (I started the process on December 13th. That was obviously an inauspicious day) so now I can say hello to Buffy (and everyone else).

One thing I liked about the last chapter/episode was that Raminus is amazed by what things Buffy has collected, but the fact that it all fits in the same small bag is just unremarkable to him. Bags of Holding are an everyday item that need no comment - if you're a Mage.

My compliments on a masterful omission. And don't tell us you didn't do anything!

I agree with Thomas, PRICELESS!

Episode 76 found our bowgirl meeting with Raminus Polus at the Arcane University. Buffy requested her guild provide assistance to Kvatch. The Master Wizard promised he would supportively bring the matter before the Council of Mages. He suggested that if Buffy could deal with a concern at Wellspring Grove that was distracting the Council, they would likely be more amenable to the request for aid.

mALX- Thank you so much! Buffy looks up to Raminus, but he is rather. . . academic. I'm glad Buffy's 'training aids' helped convince him how serious she was.

Rider- With Julian being the braveheart warrior she is, it feels good to know that she agreed with Buffy's assessment of the hero in a headband. Thank you!

SubRosa- Eliciting a cheer from the lady of the faint smile is a high honor indeed! Thank you. The opinion you offered on Raminus Polus nails Buffy's view of him exactly.

Thomas Kaira- Thank you. Buffy does have control over her fear of being eaten by Daedra now. There will be delays placed in her path, but she has taken a dramatic step closer to Kvatch. Although it will only take her several dozen of her days to get there from this point, the details involved will require as many episodes.

ghastley- Thank you for extending your support of Buffy the chatterbox from the Bethesda game forum to her fanfic over here at chorrol! I'm glad you appreciate the wonders of her pack and magic bag. Superian's saddlebags are of great help as well, since the mare can carry as much as, well, a horse.

King Coin- Thank you! Take good care of little Aravi and her companion Vilja.



With Slayer in hand, I entered Wellspring Cave. Not sure what to expect, I immediately melted into the nearest shadowy wall. I was in a dark tunnel, but there was an open cavern straight ahead displaying the encouraging flicker of firelight. One life force, that I assessed as man or mer, moved unhurriedly about the rocky chamber. I crept closer and could now see robes adorning the glowing pink figure that was now partially hidden in shadow.

Relaxing at the sight of what appeared to be a mage, I emerged from hiding and cheerfully approached. "Hail! Raminus Polus sent me. Are you alright?"

The figure turned to face me and hissed, "Your presence here will not be tolerated!" His arm spiked the air, releasing a glowing lavender orb in front of him. As the magical light descended, it both produced a zombie and revealed that the man's robe was black.

My right hand shot upward in a well-practiced panic response. As my own cloud of magic blossomed and settled over me, I disappeared from head to toe and a skeleton emerged in my stead. The spellcaster's mace and zombie made short work of my bony distraction while I invisibly crept up and circled very close behind the robed man.

He apparently did not accept the illusion that I had turned into a skeleton. As his own summon expired, he said, "So the guild has sent an errand girl, hmm? And quite the looker, it seems." His tone oozed hatred. "Where are you now, little mage? After crushing your skull, I'll have my pleasure with your corpse. Once sated, I may even send pieces of it back to this Raminus Polus of yours."

I had heard enough. As his hand lifted to cast another spell, I reached out and discharged illusion magic into the back of his robe, forfeiting my invisibility. He lost control of his limbs and collapsed to the stone floor of the cave while my hand slipped into my quiver. Within seconds he began to recover from the paralysis, but it was too late. At this range, there was no delay at all between the twang and thud that lethally propelled him right back to the ground.

Scanning beyond the rocky walls, I could detect several distant glows, but none were nearby.

After letting out a long breath through puckered lips, I whispered, "Yikes! What have I gotten into?" I poked at the body with the toe of my boot. "I guess you're not from the guild."

Sparking flame from my fingertips to a torch, I wedged it into a crevice in the cave wall. The front of the dead man's robe revealed red skull and bone markings that I recognized. Why would necromancers invade this cave?

I shuddered involuntarily and my skin crawled as I thought about the black robe's words. I offered some of my own. "I won't exactly pleasure myself with your corpse, but I do need it for a moment." Drawing my hunting knife, I dropped to one knee by the necromancer and began the task of cutting my arrow free. "Don't worry, I'm not going to eat your heart." I carefully examined the broadhead tip of the arrow. The shaft remained straight, and the black and white feathered fletching was undamaged. Satisfied, I wiped down the arrow and returned it to my quiver. Shaking my head, I added, "You know, I've learned that losers talk while fighting; survivors talk after. Advice that's too late for you, I guess."

Grabbing my torch, I continued fully into the first cavern. A small figure lay on the ground ahead, but emitted no life force. As I got closer, my fears were confirmed. It was Zahrasha. Kneeling by her side, I noted that her limbs were stiff to my touch. I knew this Khajiit well enough from my University days to call her friend. . .

A small Khajiit raised her hand. In response to Delmar's nod, she timidly asked, "Isn't it wrong to use the souls of other beings to create magic items or recharge our weapons?"

"Excellent question, Zahrasha," began the Redguard thoughtfully. "You see, the term 'soul gem' is horribly inaccurate, no doubt coined by those who fear what they do not understand. We are capturing magical energy, not souls. Hence, the summoned skeleton who possessed no soul, spirit or life, was able to fill our gem just fine."

Zahrasha was not trained to fight, nor even skilled in destruction. She was simply a mage-scholar, seeking to live peacefully, study and tend her beloved grove.

Death traveled with necromancers. They were, no doubt, responsible for this. It was true that Arch Mage Traven did not allow the practice of necromancy within our guild, but that had no force of Imperial law. Was attacking this University facility some sort of retribution for the guild's policy? I had no idea, but I did know that Zahrasha didn't deserve this.

Rage and tears welled up within me. I gently stroked the soft fur of the mage's cold face. "You have my oath, sister; no black robe who remains here defiling your precious grove will live to see tomorrow. Forgive me now, for I must see what help you can offer." A careful search of Zahrasha's russet felt dress yielded a key that I slipped into a pouch at my belt.

As I thought of the necromancers, I recalled another oath that had been promised and fulfilled by my fellow Knight of the White Stallion. With a grim determination, I repeated the words of Sir Mazoga, "You killed my friend, and now I'm going to kill you."

Lingering, I tried to sort through my emotions. Anger and revenge were not strangers to me. I had learned the hard way however, that it was the methodical and stealthy approach of the hunter that would keep me alive to exact my vengeance.

My tears were gone now. I extinguished the torch, but the words of my doctrine burned brightly. Wrapping the shadows of dark stony walls around me, I silently glided deeper into Wellspring Cave.

The short tunnel led to another cavern that was quite large, the front portion dimly lit by braziers and torches. A green flag of the Mages Guild hung from one wall, while alchemical supplies and a number of texts were scattered upon a large table. Moving about the far dark corners of this underground rocky chamber were three well-dispersed glowing men or mer that I feared were foes.

Briefly changing rings, I eliminated the distraction of pink glows and illuminated the entire grotto in a soft blue light that pierced every corner. Satisfied that the three figures were necromancers, I further assessed that given the size, darkness and layout of the cavern they couldn't really see each other. I removed the ring of night eye and re-donned my detect life rings.

Selecting several hidden firing positions, I set about my task. A single arrow killed the most distant target, but the twang of Slayer's bowstring raised the suspicions of the closest necromancer. As I silently repositioned, I was relieved to hear him attribute what he had heard to nonexistent rodents. The two remaining foes each similarly fell.

Relighting my torch, I searched the black robes in vain for any clue as to why they would attack this place.

My eye caught what appeared to be a bundle of green cloth. As I raised the torch, my heart sank. Crumpled in one corner of this cavern was a body wearing the robes of a University student. It had to be the missing mage that Raminus had sent to retrieve wood for a staff. I approached and, after kneeling by the body, rolled the mage onto his back. The Breton was younger than I. A search of the boy's robes revealed a letter addressed to one Corrick Northwode at Harm's Folly:

Dear Father,

You would be so proud of me! I completed all the various guildhall recommendations and was finally accepted into the Arcane University. Headmaster Raminus Polus has sent me to a nearby grove tended by mages where they will give me the special wood for my staff. Within a few days, I will have my very own mage's staff! I know it took every septim you had to get me here, but I will study hard and not disappoint you. I so wish mother was alive to hear this wonderful news. Someday, when I learn the magic skills to kill goblins I will return to our farm and avenge her death. I miss you.

Your loving son, Arnaud

After slipping the letter into my pack, I spoke to the young Breton whose future had been snuffed out. "Rest at ease now, Apprentice. As I told Zahrasha, the black robes will pay for this. Four of them already have." I leaned closer and touched his cheek, my tears falling upon his face. "Arnaud, I will finish the task of getting your mage's staff made. I will deliver it, along with this letter, to your father."

I resumed my search, hoping Eletta - the other mage that tended the grove - had somehow managed to escape the black robes.

In another corner of the same cavern, I found a tunnel leading to a locked door. I wished I had asked Raminus for a map of Wellspring Cave. Did this wooden door lead to the grove itself or simply more tunnels? Unsure of what to expect ahead, I whispered, "Thank you Zahrasha," as I reached for her key.

I remember the first time I did this quest, walking in totally blind to what was ahead. The shock of finding necromancers in place of the mages, then finding the bodies of the mages; Buffy may have tricks at her disposal to gain the upper hand (that my player did not have), but the emotions were the same - shock, horror, fear, sadness - (once I verified several times that I had entered the correct cave).

You did a great job of revisiting how this quest strikes the player the first time they enter Wellspring Cave, and that is hard to do - BRAVO !!!! Awesome Write and Chapter !!

Ah, yes, I remember the first time in Wellspring Cave. I was WTF??

Good thing I had the official game guide handy. A quick peek in there and I was 'oh sh--'

I remember this from 1.0 and I loved your twist on this quest. It makes it even more poignant, especially when Buffy carried out her promise.

I did that too. I killed the first necromancer and checked my map to be sure I had the right cave, then exited it and compared the the name of the cave with the one in my journal. I couldn't believe that there were necromancers in the mage's guild cave.

Great chapter!

The others have already commented on the surprise of finding the Necromancers, but you also capture the second of thoughts that ran through my head when I played this quest: Vengeance.

Arnaud was a well done, if saddening, touch. I assume that this will somehow tie-in the quest at Harm's Folly to kill some more of them pesky goblins. They truly are annoying twerps.

Unfortunately you've now got me thinking "It wouldn't be hard to create a mod that puts an extra dead NPC in the cave, and updates the other quest". I've got to finish my own new stuff first!

Oh noes, don't say hello! Poor Buffy! It is a good thing that her experience has now taught her to react to surprises. I especially liked the comparison between Buffy and the necrodude. Where he simply summons a critter, she summons one and turns invisible at the same time. Talk about having the last word!

I've learned that losers talk while fighting; survivors talk after.
QFT.

The brief flashback with Zahrasha was both excellent, and economical. By the latter I mean that you not only made the present circumstances very personal to Buffy, but at the same time you performed an excellent bit of world-building in your description of how soul gems really work. Two for the price of one!

Finally Arnaud's death brings extra poignancy to this tale. I really do love how you have framed this, not as an impersonal war between rival mage factions, but rather as a very personal experience of tragedy and vengeance.

After letting out a long breath through puckered lips, I whispered, "Yikes! What have I gotten into?" I poked at the body with the toe of my boot. "I guess you're not from the guild."

Priceless!

My tears were gone now. I extinguished the torch, but the words of my doctrine burned brightly. Wrapping the shadows of dark stony walls around me, I silently glided deeper into Wellspring Cave.

Beautifully put. Buffy’s skills and her composure are so impressive here.

Arnaud’s letter home really touched my heart. So much love, pride, and sacrifice contained in so few lines. I feel so badly for his poor father.

A somber trek indeed. It is immensely satisfying to see Buffy dispatch those who violated her doctrine with such ease and grace. She has become quite the cunning hunter, one perhaps to rival Orintur Honditar (I always mix their names up for some reason ). Then again, if you were to pit them in one-on-one competition, it would appear to be rather one-sided to me. After all, can Honditar brag that he hunted Daedra for three days straight? Nope, didn't think so.

Perhaps tricking a necromancer with a skeleton was probably not the greatest idea in the world, huntress. Maybe you should try a Clannfear next time... or perhaps a Daedroth? Remember what you were taught, always plan ahead. Expect the best, plan for the worst.

Loved the sentence styling here.

I silently glided deeper into Wellspring Cave.

This sentence is beautiful in its simplicity, yet how elegant it is. The picture is so vivid and real...

In Episode 77, Buffy entered Wellspring Cave seeking to check on the mages who tended the grove beyond. She was dismayed to find one of the grove's mages and a University student dead inside the cave. After killing the necromancers responsible, Buffy found a wooden door that she figures leads deeper into the cave or perhaps to the grove itself.

mALX- Thank you for endorsing that we managed to capture the surprise and confusion of finding those black robes in the guild's own facility. I'm so glad that we were able to display Buffy's surprise, confusion, then anger.

Rider- Thank you. I'm glad you liked the addition and tragedy of Arnaud as a means to enhance the importance of a mage's staff. Raminus was quite right that sending Buffy to get wood for a staff for herself would not make sense unless it could be turned into a bow.

King Coin- I'm really glad you are enjoying our version of this in-game quest. This will be the only Mages Guild quest Buffy completes during Book 1. Thank you.

Captain Hammer- Thank you for highlighting Buffy's vengeance. It is a definitive term as, like Buffy, it has both positive and negative connotations. She makes no claim to goodness, and is willing to accept the roll of judge, jury and executioner when her doctrine is triggered.

ghastley- A mod that mirrors our version of this quest! How cool would that be?!? It would still support mages who want to use a staff, but better support mages who prefer a dagger (or even a bow). Thank you.

SubRosa- Heh, I see you note Buffy repeating her mistake of declaring herself to strangers in dark places. I'm glad that repeating the soul gem flashback from one of Buffy's University episodes worked on both the levels you mentioned. Thank you for picking up on the critical lesson that Buffy has learned - focus on killing your foe, not talking to or taunting them. The addition of Arnaud helps reinforce that when Buffy goes into danger she does so either to improve her ability to survive, or to help those she holds dear. This ties of course to the fact that her motivation to help Kvatch is all about one special individual, not an empire or city.

Grits- Thank you for those mighty nice words on a couple of passages. I'm so glad we were able to touch your heart with Arnaud's letter. Buffy will fulfill her promise and try to bring comfort to the poor boy's father. She is easily distracted and drawn from her main path, and this will be one of those times.

Thomas Kaira- Thank you for the kind words about her fighting style. Buffy's going to quickly discover that not all necromancers are as uncreative as those she has met so far. Buffy would indeed summon a more potent helper, but at this level in her story she did not know how. Given her passion for bow, illusion and restoration, she is somewhat of a slow learner with conjuration. She'll address it in this next episode. Thanks also for highlighting the sentence referencing her doctrine; the previous and next episodes are good examples of her doctrine in action.

Zalphon- Thanks for liking that imagery. Great to see you!



The tumblers, protecting whatever awaited beyond the heavy wooden door, yielded to the key I had found on Zahrasha's corpse.

Emerging from the cold stony darkness of Wellspring Cave, I found myself suddenly outdoors. My senses were overwhelmed and I was slightly disoriented. Bright sunlight hurt my eyes and I could smell flowers and forest. A woman's cry of fear assaulted my ears. By squinting and raising a hand to shield my eyes, I could make out the blurry image of a hooded necromancer taunting a woman.

I blinked rapidly, forcing my eyes to more quickly adjust. As punishment for my effort, I watched as the insults culminated with a silver dagger being plunged into the chest of another guild mate that I recognized as Eletta. Blood immediately darkened the Redguard's burgundy blouse. As she fell limply to the ground, I silently cursed myself for being too slow to prevent her death.

Hoping I had not been noticed, I raised my hand and released a shroud of invisibility that cloaked me as it settled.

The hooded black robe turned toward the door I had emerged from, scanning suspiciously. I could see now she was a Dunmer. "So, intruder, you would seek to hide rather than join your friends in death?" The voice oozed vileness.

Ok, so she had noticed me, but at least she couldn't see me now. I stood, barely breathing as I considered how best to proceed.

A spell formed in the dark elf's hand. She began to smile, releasing a pinkish glow above her head. "Be revealed now, guild worm, and yield your corpse to me."

I gulped, hoping she had not cast what I feared. As the glow of her spell dissipated, the sinister smile broadened and her red eyes snapped straight toward me. They were filled with hatred.

My blood ran cold with the terrifying realization that she could see my life force. I used magic to detect the presence of my foes routinely, but had rarely faced an enemy who did the same. I cursed myself for overestimating the safety of my precious invisibility spell - especially around spellcasters. My reliable panic response of disappearing had been shattered. Flustered, and feeling very vulnerable, my mind raced.

The necromancer hissed, "I see the glow of your life, plaything. That won't last for long." She raised her silver dagger, the blade still dripping crimson from Eletta's wound. "When your blood mingles with the dead Redguard's, will you remain invisible? I think not. I'm going to kill, then reanimate you. You'll dance for me, little one. Yes, you will. I'll make your corpse tear itself apart!"

Talking, instead of immediately attacking, was an arrogant mistake on her part. I wasn't the best at thinking quickly, and the precious delay provided by her threats had given me just the time I needed to devise a plan.

The Dunmer approached menacingly. A burst of green magic swirled from my fingertips. My hands instantly reappeared in front of me, but I was already reaching for an arrow. As my illusion engulfed her, the necromancer sheathed her bloody dagger and stood calmly. I couldn't miss her chest at this range, and my arrow propelled her to the ground next to Eletta. Her body now emitted no more life force than that of my guild mate.

I immediately crouched, melting into the bushes surrounding the cave's door. Scanning for life signs, I could see there were two more distant glows to extinguish. I was hidden and safe - for the moment. I let my pounding heart begin to slow as I surveyed my surroundings.

Were it not for the grim circumstances, Wellspring Grove was actually a beautiful forest on a small island punctuating the eastern portion of Lake Rumare. Birds cheerfully sang as they winged among the branches overhead, oblivious to the mortal events below.

A pink flame danced atop each of two stone pedestals in the middle of the grove. The structures were similar to those found inside the gates that welcomed visitors to the University itself. Nestled between the magical flaming markers was a stone chest that I suspected contained the special wood I needed.

I remembered my promise to complete Arnaud's staff and deliver it to the dead boy's father at Harm's Folly. Right now though, I needed to deliver on a more immediate debt.

My heart sank further as I looked at Eletta. The Redguard had been another scholarly mage simply trying to study arcane texts and tend to her grove. Again, I struggled to suppress my anger. Finally, I quietly said, "Like Zahrasha and Arnaud, I will avenge you too, sister."

Shifting my now hardened gaze to the nearby body of the Dunmer in black, I whispered venomously, "By yielding to your overconfidence, you attempted to toy with your prey. As a result, I yet live and you do not. Thank you, hooded one, for reminding me not to make your mistake. I hate you with a raging fury, and would love to toy with those of you who yet live. But I have learned the difference between trusting in my abilities and the risks of overconfidence. I will not jeopardize myself or my task; there will be no taunting from me. Your remaining companions, in fact, will never see their death approaching."

I was near the cave entrance, at the southern end of the island. One necromancer stood guard to my northeast; the other was posted to the northwest. Apparently, their duty was to prevent any assault from the lake. There was good distance between the necromancers, but given the bright light of day, I suspected if one fell the other might notice. How to kill one without alerting the other?

I could use illusion magic that would cause one necromancer to attack his companion. . . no, I had promised to kill each of them myself.

What about a high trajectory arrow to one, followed by a carefully timed direct shot to the other for simultaneous impacts? Glancing up at the trees and overhead branches, I rejected that idea.

Just shoot one, then deal with the likely attack from the other? I shook my head. Too messy and dangerous. Necromancers had that frustrating habit of summoning help that could suddenly complicate things. Besides, they outclassed me when it came to summoning. As an archer, illusionist and healer, my skills with conjuration had only progressed enough to summon the simplest forms of assistance. With practice, I hoped to someday conjure more powerful spirits.

Nocking an arrow and drawing some tension on Slayer's bowstring, I enhanced my focus to get a better look. As the necromancers snapped clearly into view, another idea came to mind. The black robe to the northwest was facing me, his back leaning against a tree. . . .

I returned the arrow to my quiver and looked at the bow that nestled so naturally in my left hand, like an extension of my arm. Slayer was indeed powerful, but could it do what I was contemplating?

Reaching back into my quiver, my fingers sought and found the tail of an armor-piercing arrow. The hardened, slender tip was made to pierce and penetrate. I coated it with a poison that would both paralyze and kill - just in case. I also planned for the possible spells I might need if this didn't work as intended.

After tossing a small pinch of dirt into the air and watching a slight breeze affect the particles' descent, I nocked the arrow. Pulling silk with calloused fingers, I applied some tension to Slayer. By concentrating on the tree-leaning necromancer, I was able to again draw him sharply into focus. The red skull emblazoned on the front of his black robe was now clearly visible. I intended the arrow to pierce the left side of his chest along with any necessary ribs, miss the bones of his spine and continue into the tree.

Factoring in range and wind considerations, I breathed normally. Years of practice helped generate my offset aim point. Halfway through an exhalation, I stopped breathing. In a single smooth motion, I drew full tension on the bowstring, adjusted to my final aim point and loosed.

After a breathless eternity of a couple seconds, the necromancer jerked slightly. The glow of his life however, immediately faded. His head slumped forward, but his body remained upright. At this range, the arrow that had impaled him was not visible. He simply appeared to be resting against the tree.

I quickly looked at the dead necromancer's companion for any reaction, hoping that the distances involved had prevented him from hearing the twang of Slayer's bowstring or my arrow's impact. He glanced at his upright cult mate. Apparently unconcerned, the black robe returned his gaze out to Lake Rumare.

"Yes!" I whispered, repressing a squeal. "It worked!"

The next arrow I selected was a broadhead - the more traditional choice for unarmored targets. I carefully aimed at my final enemy, and permitted a faint smile.

The necromancer never saw the arrow that fatally tore a path deeply into the center of his chest.

Yes! My favorite archery lesson!

I loved the in-depth 'discussion' of archery tactics and shooting one without alerting the other (something I take advantage of all the time in-game). The selection of arrow points was also inspired.

Julian's only tactical nit (as opposed to a writing/style nit), and one I share, is that Buffy took her time coming up with a retort to a dead necromancer who can't hear her while there were still two live enemies within bowshot (and definitely ranged spell) distance. If one or the other had noticed her while she was communing with the Dunmer, they would have been the ones communing with her! There's plenty of time for that after the fat lady sings. I only bring it up because while Julian is a seasoned soldier with years of combat experience under her belt, Buffy is rather naïve in that regard, and that only highlights her character even more. She's not perfect, and there is a lot she still doesn't know about combat. Still, she has come a long way - so long that such lapses are few and far between and only serve to further highlight her hard-earned competency. She now has to guard against over-confidence.

As for me, I did notice something. The phrasing here is awkward. 'Put paid' is the typical term here, and as I understand it, 'put' is the active verb, while 'paid' is more the object. That means the word 'put' reflects the rules of verb usage, while 'paid' remains the same. So either you meant put paid, or you intended something more like - I needed to pay a more immediate debt.

I continue to enjoy Buffy's story and how she is growing into such a competent young woman.

I remember stepping out of the cave onto that island exactly as you describe, you capture that moment so vividly! I have been dreading the day someone used a detect life spell to spot Buffy. And it had to be the first necromancer, oh no! My heart was in my throat, but she prevailed! The nearly silent battle on the island illustrates why Jerric gets a churning stomach when he thinks of archers.

The tumblers, protecting whatever awaited beyond the heavy wooden door, yielded to the key
I love the metaphors you use here of protecting and yielding.

"Be revealed now, guild worm, and yield your corpse to me."
This was nicely worded!

and permitted a faint smile
A certain stringy bosmer would be proud! Not only of Buffy's cuddly as a rattlesnake choice of smiles, but also of her inspired decision to try to pin the one necromancer to the tree.

I'd love to be able to pin enemies to various objects in game. While they are still alive!