Buffy was much better this go around. They have a good system for dealing with those powerful wraiths. Good job!

The above quotes show Buffy's make up wonderfully. The two of them together play off each other so nicely, and as Haute said - they exemplify teamwork. Love this chapter !!! Awesome Write !!!! WOO HOO !!!

Chapter 6 review

Yeah, I remember my first encounter with Falcar. Though some of the others had been rude or disdainful, Falcar really threw me for a loop...

Welcome to Cheydinhal, Buffy. Suddenly, I wanted to be back with Kud-Ei and my own mages in Bravil. I blinked a few times, determined not to make things worse with tears. --Aww, poor Buffy. A sensitive heart—I know what that’s like. (Most people who see me think I’m hard and tough, but inside I’m soft and squishy. )

I love the scene where Buffy buys the horse. Her cheerful squeal when she finds she has enough money, the knowing when she first sees the horse that she’s the one for her, her choice to wait for naming the horse, and the conversation with Mivryna…. It was delightful.

Isn’t it fun trying to climb onto a horse when you’re short? I loved the part when Buffy had to climb onto her horse the first time. And I especially loved when she got Superian to run—an exhilarating experience to ride a fast galloping horse through the countryside—freedom.

Nits: Punctuation missing—After casting two spells enabling me to see and breathe in the dark water, I dove in

The Orc scratched he head.—her head…

Facing the mare's haunch, I lifting one leg awkwardly.—should be I lifted

Another fine episode as Alawen and Buffy give Grantham his longed-for rest.

My favourite part was this quote:

The hope that her long range skills were less than those of my master crept forth like tendrils of a poisonous vine. A wave of shame swept over me for allowing such thoughts.

Great use of imagery there, especially the likening of the errant thought to poison. Indeed, any kind of rivalry at that point might well have been Buffy's doom, given how crucial her cooperation with Alawen was. Come tournament time, though, will Buffy quietly slip into a different view?

During Episode 98, Alawen and Buffy dramatically improved their tactics and ability to fight together as they successfully cleared the Emma May. In gratitude for freeing his spirit, the Forlorn Watchman suggested the elves claim a smugglers' treasure located farther up the Panther River.

Rider- Thank you for those kind words about the teamwork and tactics that Alawen and her scout tried to use here. Yes, Buffy desperately needs a bath!

Rihanae- I so appreciate that you are enjoying the interaction between Buffy and Alawen. As you imply, it is the friendship they are developing that is important.

ghastley- Thanks for your kind words as Buffy and Alawen tried to think their way through the Emma May.

The inconsistency you note regarding detect life is astute, and there is not a perfect answer. Our layout of the Emma May was much larger and different than what is depicted in game. The ladder to the captain's quarters was intended to be a deck transition up to the wheelhouse area. The other two doors were not deck changes, but we simply treated all the closed hatches/ladders in the ship the same as entering the ship itself or changing decks; that is we embraced the game's 'loading screen' treatment and applied it to all closed doors.

Buffy knows that when she activates a door, sometimes it simply opens but most of the time it transports her into a new area often containing unpleasant surprises. As a result, she correctly assumes that she often can't tell what is on the other side. An embarrassingly artificial game mechanic? Yes, but one that we actually like.

Detect life is Buffy's primary defense. It is so powerful however, that I actually want to limit it somewhat without reducing her use of it. We like to expand the 'loading screen' treatment the game assigns to most doors that precludes seeing into the next 'cell' to generally include all closed doors. We find this helps with our fiction's tension (particularly in this past episode) and tones down Buffy's abilities. I ask your indulgence for what I guess is imperfect, but intentional? Lol. Buffy can see glows beyond rocks and walls, but generally not into closed compartments. It is an attempt to limit her so that (much to her chagrin) she can more often walk into a 'door trap' or a 'stair trap'.

SubRosa- Thank you. Buffy may have finished wet and bruised, but she is happy that she was able to redeem herself in Alawen's eyes. Clearly, the ranger is a superb archer and I expect she will cause some concern regarding Buffy's hope and expectation that Daenlin will once again win the tourney. I agree that the Forlorn Watchman quest leaves some questions. Without trying to over engineer it (as Buffy can sometimes do), I'm glad our rather simple and vague portrayal worked here. Thanks for the nits so I could round 'em up.

King Coin- Heh. She had to do better after her last ghostly disaster! Thank you.

mALX- Thank you so much for highlighting, as Rider did, the teamwork the two elves developed. Yes, the Emma May really was about building trust and friendship.

Lady Syl- I loved your observations from the episode where Buffy did the Cheydinhal MG recommendation and met her precious black mare! Buffy was poorly equipped at the time to deal with the responsibilities and hazards of traveling by horse. In true 'love conquers all' fashion however, she could not be deterred and they would go on to figure out how to keep each other alive. Thank you for those three nits. I went back and fixed them on the thread as well as in my archives.

Ceidwad- Thank you. It felt good to bring peace to the sailor. Buffy's vision for the tournament is simple: Daenlin wins and she just has to shoot well enough so that he is proud of her. Yet, as you can see, Buffy and Alawen are fast developing a friendship forged in fire. I appreciate you drawing out the potential drama that Alawen's friendship and skill may bring to the tournament.



The wooden planks of the small dock felt smooth against my skin as I enjoyed the drying warmth of a midday sun. Lying on my back, with head and shoulders propped up by both elbows, I lazily considered my surroundings.

Behind me was piled the tack of two horses.

Fifty paces or so farther up the river's bank was Black Dog Camp. Alawen had insisted on stepping into the camp to declare herself. The Khajiit and Dunmer who attacked her, now bore mute testimony that the ranger and her hidden scout had brought local smuggling operations to an end.

Close to my left hip was Slayer and an elven quiver. I wiggled my toes luxuriously and looked just beyond them at the Panther River, as it flowed quietly toward the Niben. Items of clothing and armor, cleaned by the river and a kiss of soap, were displayed and drying over the heavy posts that supported the dock.

Sunshine sparkled on the water droplets that had not yet dried from the ranger's back and legs as she lay beside me, her toes also pointed toward the river. To my right and just beyond Alawen, was a pile of gems and jewelry that Grantham Blakely's treasure map had helped us retrieve from a chest at the bottom of the river.

Slightly downstream, two mares had quenched their thirst and now grazed peacefully on tender grass that grew along the Panther's bank.

I sighed contentedly. This was the calm I had hoped my visit home would bring.

A growing whisper among the overhead leaves announced the arrival of a breeze. As the cool air danced across my wet skin, I glanced down to see countless tiny bumps emerge. I smiled a bit self-consciously to see two larger bumps had responded as well.

Whether from the same tightening of her wet skin or the breeze itself, Alawen awoke and lazily rolled onto her back. "Mmmm," she sighed, turning her face to the sun. "Buffy, I am beginning to quite like the lush forests and gentle rivers near your home."

My eyes were drawn to one of Alawen's bare legs. An area bigger than my open hand was dominated by a scar. Four parallel claw marks traced a path completely across the front of her left thigh.

"Lion." Alawen's voice jolted me, and I quickly turned my head away.

The tiny bumps of coolness on my skin instantly yielded to a flush of color that I watched travel from thigh to breast. I could then feel the warmth as it rose up my neck and continued to the tips of my pointed ears. "F-forgive me, I didn't mean to stare." I returned my gaze to Alawen, this time making sure to seek her eyes instead of her scar.

The ranger had propped herself up on both elbows, matching my position, and I was relieved to see her smiling. "I was nine years old when I learned about lions. Mother found me screaming in the tiny rock crevice that had saved me. Thanks to her potions, I eventually healed."

"You were lucky to survive, Alawen. I've seen lions kill horses, and even Legion soldiers."

She nodded. "Mother told me it meant something special to carry the mark of a lion. Shortly after I healed, I found that I could sense and influence the will of forest creatures. Mother could sometimes briefly command them, but my abilities went beyond that. I can often calm animals or even frighten them away."

"Magic?" I asked. "Like a spell?"

"No," replied Alawen, "I don't know how to cast a single spell. My ability to influence animals is just something that happens when I focus on them and try to project part of my mind into their will."

"What a wonderful ability you have, Alawen!" More comfortable now, I allowed my eyes to travel back to her scar. "You know, potions can only do so much. The priests at your Chapel of Dibella should be able to fade that scar some. Even my own spells could probably help. Would you like me to try?"

"You are a caring elf, Buffy, but no." The ranger continued to smile. "I earned that scar. It was granted thirty years ago and is a part of me."

"I think I understand, Alawen." Hoping to lighten the mood, I added, "Besides, it's quite the conversation starter when you're lying around without your clothes on."

I was very surprised to hear a giggle erupt from the ranger, and took it as a welcome indication that perhaps I hadn't offended her with my rude staring.

I sat up, cross-legged, and removed the ribbon restraining my ponytail. After shaking my wet hair loose, I fished around in my pack until I found a comb. I then began to work out the tangles.

Alawen flicked her hand against the skin of my knee and pointed downstream. Her smiling lips whispered, "Look."

Charger was quietly grazing as my mare slowly approached from behind. Superian stretched her neck and playfully nipped Charger on the rump. Two white legs instantly propelled a pair of hooves back toward Superian, who briefly reared then sprinted away with her tail raised like a flag.

Charger went back to grazing, only to be nipped and taunted twice more. Finally, the white mare wheeled around with flattened ears, snaked out her neck and bit Superian.

I started to my feet, but was stopped as Alawen grabbed my wrist and said, "No, let them work it out." Her grip was firm, but her words were gentle.

I was used to killing anything that threatened Superian, but she clearly deserved the rebuke after wearing through the older horse's patience. I was relieved to see my mare sharply back away and Charger not, well, charge. Relaxing, I said, "I guess we know who's boss."

Tipping out a small amount of thick liquid from a pink vial, I began to work it through my hair with fingertips.

"What is that?" asked Alawen.

"It contains just a touch of ectoplasm, along with some rosemary oil and aloe vera for conditioning, glow dust for shine, and some finely ground bergamot for a nice citrus scent. Want some?" I offered her the vial.

After an approving sniff, she applied a small amount of the conditioner. I frowned. "Alawen, your hair is kind of a mess. Here, sit up and turn around." Kneeling behind the now cross-legged ranger, I went to work. "Didn't you bring any hair things?"

"I forgot," Alawen said sheepishly. "I have never traveled before and I am afraid I did not prepare very well. I was just going to use some of the saddle soap that I apply to my tack and armor."

Despite pursing my lips, a short sputter of laughter escaped. "Oh my, we can't have that! I have plenty more of this at home, and a spare comb too. Keep these when we're done."

"Thank you, Buffy." She relaxed into my hands as I continued working on the tangles. "Mother and I used to do this for each other," she said. "It feels wonderf - Ouch!"

"Oops. Sorry, Alawen. It's really rather matted back here." I continued, "You're right though, it does feel nice to have someone help. Ardaline, - she's a guild mate of mine - we do this for each other all the time. Probably more to chat than for each other's hai -" A movement downstream caught my eye. "Ooh, look!" I pointed.

Superian, her head lowered to graze, was being quietly approached from behind by Charger. The older mare playfully delivered a nip to Superian's rump, then both horses took off at a gallop. Completing a wide circle, they returned to the same patch of dappled shade along the river.

Alawen nodded approvingly. "Charger is not too old to play, she just wants to feel as if she is in charge. It looks like she has convinced Superian."

"I'm glad they're becoming friends," I said as I returned to Alawen's hair. "When are you going to shoot for tournament qualification? Tomorrow's the last day, you know."

"I noted the target line on the range when I rode by yesterday," said the ranger, "and I think the sun angle will be good tomorrow afternoon."

"I'll look for you then," I replied. "See Antoine at the stables. I'll tell him to take good care of Charger." Satisfied with the other elf's hair, I proclaimed, "There! All done."

Alawen ran her fingers through the untangled brown tresses. "That feels much better." Rising to her knees, she turned to face me. "You next." With a circling gesture of her hand she added, "Turn around and sit."

I did so, and surrendered my hair to Alawen's gentle fingers. After a few moments, I felt the comb and her hands stop. Looking over my shoulder, I could see her staring at me with moist eyes. Instantly, I was up on my knees, face-to-face with the other bare wood elf. "Alawen, what's wrong?" I said, concerned that perhaps I had offended her somehow.

A single tear had escaped and was tracing a path down her cheek. She was staring at my hair as she said, "It is just that. . ." her eyes were childlike as she reached out to touch a blond lock, "it is the color of golden corn silk, Buffy. Mother's hair was the same, and it just brought back. . . I-I am sorry." With a forearm, she brushed the child from her face. "Please sit back down and I will finish."

I obeyed the ranger, but my thoughts were swirling. That look in her eyes was frozen in my mind. It reflected the same wistfulness I had seen in Daenlin's eyes the day before when he had similarly touched his fingers to my hair and said, "She had golden locks, just like you, my apprentice."

Some of Daenlin's other words came crashing back to me now: "Forty years ago, Reman, Diana and I were the best of friends - the finest archers in Skingrad. . . she loved us both, I expect. . . ."

Alawen was marked by a lion thirty years ago at the age of nine, and her mother was a skilled archer with blond hair. Could it be?

Willing a calmness into my voice that I didn't feel, I quietly asked. "Um, Alawen, you've never mentioned your mother's name. May I ask?"

"Diana," the ranger said. "There, now your hair is done too, Buffy."

Launched into a storm of thought over the confirmation, I absently ran fingers through my hair and replied, "Thank you."

We both stretched out on our backs again under the afternoon sun. After a few moments, I turned to face the ranger and propped myself up on one elbow. My heart was racing. "Forgive me. Perhaps I am being too nosey. . . ." I let the words trail, hoping for a sign from the wood elf beside me.

The ranger also rose on one elbow and faced me with a smile. "What is it? I won't nip like Charger does."

"You never speak of your father. Did something bad happen?"

"Diana was both mother and father to me," she replied. "I have no idea who sired me and Mother never spoke of it."

"You don't find yourself wishing to know about your father?"

"No, I do not want to know," she stated firmly. "If he was honorable, then he must have died before I was born; otherwise, he never would have allowed Mother to be alone with child. Confirmation of his death would bring me no comfort." Alawen's face darkened. "If he yet lives and I knew his name, I would put an arrow through his heart for allowing Mother to raise me by herself. That also would bring me no comfort."

Her voice reflected determination as she continued, "No, my friend, if I was meant to know who my father was, Mother would have told me. I trust her judgment on that." The ranger lay back and closed her eyes, as did I.

My head was spinning. This all meant that either Daenlin or the Imperial named Reman Broder was quite possibly Alawen's father.

Without the kind of evaluation I had undergone at the University, it was very difficult to confirm the race of one's father. Such testing focused on special abilities and aptitudes. For example, although I had no Bosmeri special powers beyond my affinity for the bow, I possessed the arcane aptitude and resistance to magical attack normally found in Bretons. Alawen's mark of the lion - more specifically the somewhat Bosmeri power it conferred - served to further complicate things. We couldn't even rule out the possibility that there were more than two men or mer in Diana's life at the time Alawen was conceived.

What, if any of this, should I share and with whom? Would the possibilities bring comfort, or simply tear open old memories best left to bittersweet slumber?

With a heartbreaking sadness, the answer crystallized. The honorable ranger, who now called me friend, left no ambiguity regarding her feelings. In fact, I understood her logic perfectly. Not knowing the fate of my own father, I could easily imagine speaking Alawen's very words. She had earned my respect for her wishes.

There would be no happy meeting of father and daughter. Like Diana, I would carry this heavy secret to my grave.

I rolled onto my left side to face away from Alawen, lest she be watching and a tear sneak through my closed eyelids.


* Author's Note: Readers of Jean M. Auel will recognize that the scar on Alawen's left leg is identical to that sported by Ayla, heroine of 'The Clan of the Cave Bear' series.

Honestly, I can't think of a better tribute to an unforgettable heroine (Ayla) than Alawen. She comes by her wisdom the hard way. Her attitude regarding the identity of her father really hits home. Does it matter to her who her father is? Does having the knowledge change who she is? Her words make it clear that it is something she wrestled with in her younger years, and something she put to rest some time ago. She does not care to wrestle with the issue again, and Buffy shows a growing maturity in her decision not to raise that issue to Alawen.

This is a lovely interlude of two women relaxing side by side in an idyllic setting. The fact that both are Bosmeri, both seem unable to keep their clothes on in the presence of water, and both are fatherless only serves to enhance the beauty of the situation. Grantham Blakeley's treasure is a very minor factor in this scene, as it should be. Their friendship is about more than just treasure hunting (and ghost-busting!).

On the subject of the Detect Life, the main limitation I find in using it is that you can't tell what's between you and the pink glow. In a situation like the Emma May, it could theoretically show creatures outside the hull of the wreck (although not in the game, where all interiors are in another world), and it's always hard to judge the distance. Not to mention the drowning-out effect of a live companion up close. And as I mentioned before, there are a few instances where the glows are off until you get close, and traps aren't alive at any time.

If there's a door or other item that blocks the spell effect, that's a valid part of the story, too. Buffy doesn't need to understand why that sometimes happens, just that it does, and having limitations on her abilities is always a good thing. Not seeing Grantham Blakely before he materialized could have been an opportunity for Buffy to learn about one without having to endure a non-optimal outcome!

But back to the current piece: some wonderful subtlety in the descriptions in this. You know Alawen is lying face-down and showing a lot of skin because of the water drops on her back and legs. The effect of the cool breeze on Buffy does the same for her, even if we have come to assume the proximity of water will remove her clothes anyway.

I liked the way the lion incident created or awakened Alawen's Beast Tongue. It makes her more attached to that scar, as she'd regard it as the source of her ability.

GAAAAH !!! Twin sisters ... seperated at birth by .... GAAAAH !!!! DON'T DROP IT BUFFY !!!!! ARGH !!! AWESOME CHAPTER ... but ARGH !!!

Ahh, finally a nice peaceful break for a naked wood elf to consider her bumps, the smaller ones and the larger two. As haute said, the focus here is on the real friendship that has grown between the two women. While it may be been facilitated by ghosts and treasure, the latter is not the story at all. Very sweet and snuggly.

I loved how you tied Alawen's ability to control animals - which is definitely beyond the normal Bosmer power - with her experience with the lion. It was an initiation that awakened the power within her. It is no wonder that she now carries the scars with pride.

"Besides, it's quite the conversation starter when you're lying around without your clothes on."
Well, I can think of a few other conversation starters...

"I noted the target line on the range when I rode by yesterday," said the ranger, "and I think the sun angle will be good tomorrow afternoon."
Now there is a clever archer, picking her time and place to shoot. Just like a fighter pilot dragon rider hiding in the sun...

And finally the revelation of Alawen's parentage comes out! This was a wonderful moment in BF 1.0, and remains so the second time around. Buffy is faced with a heavy burden, keeping Diana's secret from not only Alawen, but also from Daenlin. Yet given Alawen's resentment of her missing father, it is clearly the best thing to do.

A good relaxing chapter that confirmed some of my suspicions of Alawen's origins. They are getting a long nicely, though I can see a confrontation brewing over the question of fathers. I'm sure Buffy and Daenlin can get that sorted out with some explanation if it becomes necessary.

Cool scar by the way. I really liked Mass Effect because you could choose to give your character a nasty looking scar. That's one thing I'm hoping for from Skyrim. I'm not personally familiar with Clan of the Cave Bear but I've seen them on the bookshelves at home.

Chapter 98-

A most treacherous romp through a treacherous ship with treacherous crew. It was quite a good sight seeing those two working together as they did. Where one falls short, the other fills the gap; like I said, peas and carrots.

And poor Buffy, needing to venture through the whole thing after having been slimed, and her bladder jettisoned. Still, adrenaline does help keep your mind off the discomfort and embarrassment.

Chapter 99-

"I smiled a bit self-consciously to see two larger bumps had responded as well. "

What a charming line!

Okay, seriously, are you taking inspiration from Jean Auel's Ayla for Alawen? Claw marks on the left leg from a lion? Natural ability to commune with the creatures of Nirn (beyond what most Bosmer can achieve)? All that's missing now is the blondie-bear boyfriend. *looks to the bottom* Ahh, yes, I knew it!

Superian playing with Charger (and annoying him) was very well written, I could easily visualise her antics.

And a tantalizing clue of just who Daenlin's old apprentice might be comes through, as well. I look forward to seeing where this goes. Although I must say, if the father was Daenlin, he is in big trouble. Incurring the frigid embrace of vengeance in a girl as gifted as Ayla Alawen?

Episode 99 found Buffy and Alawen spending a quiet afternoon along the Panther River after collecting some treasure. When Buffy reminded Alawen that the following day was the third and final opportunity for tournament qualification, the ranger stated she would attempt to qualify the next afternoon.

Buffy also learned that Diana (the blond archer at the center of the rivalry between Daenlin and Reman Broder) was Alawen's mother. The ranger was quite clear that she did not want to know who her father was. Reluctantly, and out of respect for Alawen's wishes, Buffy the chatterbox decided to keep her counsel on the matter.

Rider- Thank you for your beautifully kind words. I've always respected Ayla. It was a beautiful afternoon to further cement a new friendship, darkened only by Diana's secret. I'm so glad you agree that Buffy's choice was right for her under the circumstances.

ghastley- I appreciate your endorsement of our descriptions. I was really trying to work with delicate brush strokes from a palette of nature, wood nymphs, sensuality, friendship, innocence, girl talk and horseplay. It was a very precious episode for us, and your compliment means a great deal. The scar was an unabashed tribute to Ayla of course, but I like how it helps to muddy the source of Alawen's power with animals, leaving her paternity an open question.

mALX- Although Buffy's Bretonic paternity is not in question, Daenlin is indeed her godfather and she certainly thinks of him in a most fatherly or grandfatherly way. The fact that Alawen could possibly be Daenlin's daughter does indeed inspire a sisterly nurturing response from Buffy. Thank you!

SubRosa- Sweet and snuggly is perfect! Given your wonderful manner of incorporating the mystic abilities of animals in TF, I'm so glad Alawen's lion encounter worked well. Alawen's comment about sun angle on the target line reminds us that Buffy's wonderful new friend is also potentially a formidable competitor of course. I'm so glad you once again enjoyed the revelation of Diana as Alawen's mother, and that you once again also understand the difficult choice that Buffy made.

King Coin- Thank you for liking Alawen's neat scar! I so appreciate your discretion for not prematurely spilling our beans, but I do want to credit your astuteness. Let me share with other readers that KC sent me a PM right after Buffy first met Alawen. In it, he submitted his suspicion that the ranger's mother was Diana.

TK- I'm glad you enjoyed the teamwork needed to clear the Emma May. And a relaxing afternoon by the river as a reward! I confess that both Buffy and Alawen have been influenced in minor ways by Ayla. I quite liked the idea, given how Alawen was raised by her mother in the wilds, of having her marked by a lion. The only other direct reference to Auel's work that I see in the future is to incorporate her portrayal of animal totems as they relate to fertility. That of course won't happen until such things become a concern for Buffy.

All- As the sun sets on day two of tournament qualifications, the bowgirl's very long day now transitions into a long evening. Her focus shifts back to searching for the troublesome drain marksman scroll that potentially threatens the integrity of the tournament.



The Lonely Suitor Lodge was a rough and tumble, even unsavory, tavern. For that reason I normally avoided it - especially in the evenings. I was here tonight on business though. With the tournament in town, it was full of loud voices and the smell of stout drink. Threading my way to the bar, I was either jostled or groped several times. I climbed up onto an empty stool. Bogram gro-Galash was busy sliding bottles along the top of his counter to thirsty customers.

"Hey! The lady and I need a drink!" The booming voice of Kurz gro-Baroth cut through the cacophony of arguments, threats, bragging and demands for more ale. He plopped himself onto the barstool next to mine and, with a grin, looked down at me. "Good to see you, Buffy. Remember me?"

"I do, Kurz. You and your brother were kind enough to let me practice on your guild's range when I visited Chorrol. It's good to see you again."

"So, what'll it be?" The busy Bogram wiped his sweating brow on a stained bar towel.

"A beer, and . . . ?" Kurz looked at me to finish his sentence.

"Tamika's, please," I said.

Reaching into my coin purse, I tried to conceal how full it was. I had been shocked by how much gold Nilawen placed on her counter in exchange for the treasure Alawen and I had shared. Repaying Nilawen for my supplies had taken but a few septims.

"Keep your gold, Buffy," said Kurz as he tossed some coins on the bar when our drinks came. He then held up his beer.

"Thank you for the wine, Kurz." I clinked my metal goblet to his waiting bottle. "How do you think you shot this morning?" I said, trying to make conversation.

"Terrible of course." He laughed. "I don't really care though. Lum got the bow talent in this family. I'll take an axe any day."

"Well, why are you competing then?" I cocked my head. "Couldn't you just support your brother from the reviewing stands?"

Kurz looked around and lowered his voice. "Can you keep a secret?"

"Sure," I replied with a shrug.

The orc leaned very close. "It's my cover. I'm here on what they call a covert mission."

Freeing my forearm from underneath the giant green hand as unobtrusively as I could, I casually replied, "Really?" I hoped my tone would garner more information without giving the orc the wrong idea. I lifted the goblet to my lips.

"Yup ," he declared. "Orders right from Vilena Donton herself. I'm investigating a murder. Tracking down the archer that killed that Altmer freelance mage named Earana."

My hand was barely quick enough to intercept a mouthful of sputtered wine. After drying myself and apologizing, I conjured a level voice as best I could, "Why would the Fighters Guild be interested? Is that not a matter for the city guard in Chorrol?"

"Whoever shot Earana had to be a real good archer. Captain Bittneld figured this here tournament might draw out the killer. Rather than sending one of his guards down here, he decided to contract us to do it undercover."

I stared at my wine as I slowly swirled the goblet. "Any suspects?"

"Ha! That's the frustrating part. I'm supposed to keep an eye on Honditar over there." He jerked his thumb toward the Altmeri self-proclaimed mountain man. "Seems he's been bragging and hinting that maybe he did it. People say orcs are dumb, but I know Honditar's no more the killer than you are, Buffy. He's no archer." Kurz snorted. "I hear he buys most of his venison from Emfrid at The Grey Mare."

Kurz took a pull on his beer then continued, "Nope, this killer had to be a real pro, but sure as a troll craps in the woods he ain't gonna be dumb enough to show his face at no archery tournament. I bet it was the Dark Brotherhood. Earana had plenty of enemies, starting with the head of the Chorrol Mages Guild himself - maybe he contracted the hit. Bah, this is just a wild imp chase. At least the guild is paying my tab for a week of drinking."

I was relieved by some of Kurz' assumptions, but curious. "Do you have any actual evidence?"

"Just the unusual arrow they found stuck in her body." The orc pulled a slender cloth-covered item from his quiver, placed it on his lap and lifted the concealing wrappings briefly. "See?"

I instantly recognized the sinister black and red Hatreds Soul arrow I had purchased from Ungarion. The very one that Earana never saw as it flew halfway across Chorrol to stop her heart.

Kurz continued as he put the deadly missile away, "Thanks to a hefty bribe, one of the magic merchants in the Imperial City suggested I try talking to a supposed black marketeer here in Bravil. Turns out this Ungarion fellow either knows nothing about it or else he's keeping his mouth shut. Dead end, it seems."

"Sorry to hear that, Kurz," I lied. Ungarion's very ability to keep his mouth shut reminded me of why I was here. "Um, I'm investigating a bit of a mystery myself regarding the archery tournament. Heard anything suspicious?"

We were interrupted by a crash of breaking glass from across the tavern. It seemed two Khajiit had taken exception to a Nord, and introduced him to a bottle of wine. The son of Skyrim, with a frozen grin, Surilie-colored hair and unseeing blue eyes staggered back into the wall behind him. He then slowly slid to the floor.

"Hey!" roared Bogram the barkeep. "Quit wasting good wine. I expect you cats to pay for that!" The brief gap in noise inside the tavern was quickly refilled with raucous laughter.

Ignoring the disturbance, Kurz scratched his head. "No, can't say I've heard anything suspicious about the tournament."

"Well, thanks anyway. I wish you luck with your investigation." I turned away from Kurz, hoping to signal the end of our conversation. I began studying the crowd for clues.

The dazed, wine-covered Nord was slowly climbing back to his feet, apparently not much the worse for wear. The pair of Khajiit had already scurried away. I was struck by the diversity in this tavern. Every style and color of ears, skin, fur, scales, horn, tusk and tail was in this lively bar. Most of the patrons were armed with an equal variety of weaponry. Suddenly, I felt a large arm slide gently around my waist.

"Say, Buffy, since we both got mysteries, maybe we could work together." Kurz was way too close. "You know, spend some time and get to know each other a little, hmm?" He elevated both heavy eyebrows twice. "Don't you got a place around here that's a little more private?"

How could I have been so stupid? Well, naïve was probably more accurate. Although not intentional, it was clear that I had encouraged the orc to think I was interested in him. I cursed myself and lamented that I had no mother to teach me about men. The University did not even offer a class to learn about the confusing creatures.

As I removed Kurz's left arm from my waist, he smiled pleasantly and completely encircled my lower thigh with a dinner plate-sized right hand. Gulping nervously, I hoped to get out of this without paralyzing the amorous orc. Of course, casting a spell assumed I could free myself from his insistent advances and get to my feet.

I felt a small hand fall gently upon my shoulder. "Buffy! Imagine seeing you here!" My head snapped toward the woman's voice to see the smiling face of my upstairs neighbor.

"Luciana!" I exclaimed gratefully, "How wonderful to see you."

The Breton replied, "Say, how's that blood lung disease you got? Aren't the rats in this town terrible? Some people never fully recover, and I hear it's contagious." She smiled at Kurz, then winked at me. "Have you been to the chapel to get it cured yet?"

"Why, um, er. . . no, Luciana." I covered my mouth and coughed softly. "I surely must get over there soon though."

The orc's massive hand immediately released my thigh. In fact he sat farther back and his eyes opened wider. "Can you believe it, Buffy? I just plain forgot I'm supposed to have dinner with Lum tonight at the Bravil chapter. I hear the guild commander himself is cooking. He'll be pissed that I'm late. You two ladies have a nice night." Kurz was on his feet and headed for the door.

Luciana quickly slid onto Kurz's now vacant barstool, her eyes flashing angrily. "What in the name of Sanguine are you doing? This isn't your dainty little guild hall or the chapel, you know. Buffy, if you're going to flirt in a dive like this you need to know how to control the consequences."

"I-I didn't think-"

"Damn right you didn’t think! You're not a child anymore. You've got the goods to play with the big girls now, and you're a smart young woman. If you come to a bar, let a man buy you a drink and encourage him to talk, he's going to want to sleep with you. If you're not ready for that, then don't invite it. Got it?"

Luciana Galena was probably ten years my senior. Although not buxom in a Nordic manner, her tiny waist emphasized the dramatic hourglass of her figure. She wore her shining black hair long and loose in such a way that it set off her pretty, although somewhat hardened, face. Her eyes were an unusual violet color, rendered even more striking by her skill at animating the long lashes that framed them. Whatever it was that attracted men seemed to surround her like an aura. I had seen her draw suitors, like moths to her flame, then capture them with just a few lilting words from her full lips. I felt very inadequate. "Luciana, you're right. I really need to learn more about men. I was just trying to look into a potential problem for the tournament. Kurz was a familiar face, and I figured he might know something."

"If you get in trouble like that again, you can't be subtle," she said. "Once a fellow's hands start wandering, he's not thinking with his head - at least not the one Mara placed on his shoulders. Throw up, complain about your period or whatever it takes." Luciana then cocked her head and softened her voice. "All right, lecture over. Now, what kind of information are you snooping around for?"

"Oh, anyone behaving suspiciously," I replied. "How about Jee-Tah?" I pointed across the tavern. "He can be dangerous, right?"

"That big Argonian with the Blackwood Company? Sure, but he's more of a hired axe than a thinker."

I was startled by a tap on my shoulder, and turned to see a rather rough-looking Nord smiling at me. He pointed at my goblet. "Need a refill, sweetheart?"

Before I could respond, Luciana replied curtly, "Go take an ice bath, snowman, we're busy. Besides, we're a package deal and you can't afford us." I was impressed to see the Nord move on. He wandered over to assist an Imperial sitting unsteadily on her barstool. She seemed to have lost control of the top several buttons of her blouse.

Luciana then pushed my goblet of Tamika's away. "If you're going to hang around in here, don't let any of these skirt chasers buy you a drink - they'll think they own you. Oh, and don't drink wine - too easy to spike and advertises when you need a refill. Keep one of these in your hand." She grabbed two empty ale bottles from the bar top, handed one to me and pretended to take a swig from the other. "See? Can't tell if it's empty. You can also whap amorous drongos on the head with it if you need to. Catching on?"

Indeed I was. "Thanks for the education, Luciana. I-I had no idea-"

"Of course you didn't. Look, I didn't mean to be so hard on you. I know you lost your mother before she could teach you these things, and those brainy mages you hang out with have no idea where lower urges meet real life." She absently drummed her fingers on top of the bar. "Now, where were we?"

"Suspicious characters and the tournament," I replied. "Honditar?" The Altmer at the other end of the bar had cornered an attractive raven-haired Dunmer. Based on his animated gestures, he was no doubt bragging about some imagined exploit.

Luciana laughed. "That windbag? I took him home with me the other night to warm my bed and lighten his coin purse."

"And?"

The Breton chuckled. "It's amazing what you can get men to say or do when you've got one of these to bargain with." She gestured vaguely toward her lap. "He's talking like a big shot archer to turn the heads of as many gullible girls as he can. His little brag-'em-to-bed scam will be done tomorrow when I'm sure he'll fail to even qualify. He's all talk and no action." She grinned mischievously and added, "And now, thanks to me, he's broke."

Luciana placed her hand on mine. "Look, Buffy, this is going nowhere. If I'm going to try and help, you can't dance around vaguely. Everyone in this bar is suspicious in one way or another. You have to tell me exactly what's going on here."

I loved this chapter. My heart was in my throat during the discussion about Bogram's contract! You picked up the tension really well with this and it really worked.

I also loved Luciana's teasing about Kurz's disease, it made me chuckle!

Also, the way you discribed the business of the tavern was amazing. Excellent imagery.

Well done!

This is absolutely my favorite Buffy episode, between Buffy's combined guilt and naivety ... but Luciana absolutely steals the show with her candid dialogue - LOVED this chapter, and could easily have spammed your thread trying to quote all my favorite lines in it !!! AWESOME WRITE !!!! This is a sample of your absolute BEST !!! AWESOME !!!

Luciana's a real scene-stealer in this one. Blood lung is the perfect choice of diseases to fake, especially with plenty of rats in Bravil, although Kurz might have run away faster from the droops.

And now Buffy has another reason not to do as well as she can in the tournament. Kurz is naturally going to suspect the winner.

You were absolutely right! I loved this chapter! Very good description of the tavern, it seems like the type of place Aravi would avoid.

How wonderful it was to see this scene again! It was even more delicious knowing that Kurz left the Lonely Suitor for dinner at the FG followed by a dessert of Ancondil's fists!

The uh oh feeling Buffy experienced when Kurz went all handsy on her is a familiar feeling to many women, myself included (my older sister's boyfriend comes to mind first - how ugh is that?). Us dressage riders like to call it the downward transition.

And I loved Luciana Galena in this vignette. It's one of those situations where when it came my turn to write her, my perspective was undoubtedly influenced by this chapter (in BF 1.0).

And having an infectious disease works nearly every time! Tell Buffy that if that doesn't work, waving a sharp blade in the area of a man's groin will be more than enough to scare 'em off. Of course, that's even more effective when I notify the gentleman of my license to castrate.

The Star Wars Cantina indeed, I could hear Figrin D'an and the Modal Nodes playing Jizz in the background.

Kurz returns! Much more friendly this time I see. Perhaps a little too friendly though... I see his taste runs to blond wood nymphs, rather than the pasty-skinned redheads.

Freeing my forearm from underneath the giant green hand as unobtrusively as I could
Yep, he likes the blond ones indeed! Poor Buffy, totally blindsided by the the fact that she is attractive! She is going to have to get used to it, and learn to avoid giving mixed signals to the sausages out there. Her lament that the University did not offer classes on fending off randy boars only underscores what a magic geek she is! Thankfully Kurz had to go back to the guild hall for that dinner...

Captain Bittneld figured this here tournament might draw out the killer.
I think the Captain was right!

but sure as a troll craps in the woods & this is just a wild imp chase.
Wonderful ES turns on old phrases!

As in 1.0, the fight between the two Khajiit and the Nord was priceless, as was the bartender's response!

She seemed to have lost control of the top several buttons of her blouse.


Everyone in this bar is suspicious in one way or another.
If they were not suspicious, they would not be there! Luciana to the rescue, in more ways than one. Your description of her has me thinking of Juliette Lewis. Perhaps she might give classes at the University?

Everything about this episode was pure genius.

I need to reread with the cantina song on a loop in the background

98, The Emma May:

Right away the dusty beams of sunlight bring the whole scene to vivid life. I can just imagine the two wood elves feeling for creaky boards with their feet! Nice that the next puddle on the deck was caused by a wraith. Buffy and Alawen executing their plan were great fun to watch!

We nodded comfortably to each other then nocked arrows in unison. As with the navigation room, Alawen kicked open the hatch.

Their adventure brought them from the first extended discussion to a few practiced looks and gestures. The respect and trust that they earned from one another could certainly strengthen their friendship better than hours of getting-to-know-you chat would.

99, Lions, Horses, and Blondes:

Once again I could almost feel the warm sun and cool breeze, and I could see the sun sparkling on the gold and gems. The details you give us allow us to imagine the rest, which to me is so much more engaging than pointing out every little thing. The Black Dog Camp dock has to be one of the most peaceful and inviting scenes ever!

I frowned. "Alawen, your hair is kind of a mess.

So instead of fancy words and elaborate tact, Buffy goes with a solid foundation of friendship and the simple truth. I love it!!

Buffy’s decision to keep her mouth shut about Alawen’s possible parentage reminds us that her head is not filled with soap bubbles. She is willing to keep dark secrets, even at the cost of her own peace of mind.

100, The Star Wars Cantina:

Oh my goodness! I would like to quote the whole chapter as my favorite part! The action in the background placed Buffy and Kurz’s conversation in a perfect frame. Then the luscious Luciana saved the evening by cleverly deflecting Kurz’s interest, and finally providing the much-needed eyelash fluttering lesson. Only it turns out that the lesson is when not to flutter them – and we realize that Buffy’s natural charms have surpassed her image of them, bumps in the breeze notwithstanding. After all, the Nord tapped Buffy’s shoulder when she was sitting right next to the buxom Breton. Luciana’s advice to throw up if necessary had me rolling! I love this chapter!!

(edited because spell-check is not omniscient. )

In Episode 100, Buffy found herself quite out of her element in the rowdy Lonely Suitor Lodge tavern. She was hoping to find leads that might help her track down the vexing drain marksman scroll that she believes may be used to sabotage the tournament. When we left her, she was talking with the pub-wise Luciana Galena.

Rihanae- I'm so glad you enjoyed the tension, teasing and imagery in the tavern! Thank you!

mALX- Thanks for those mighty kind words! All of Buffy's mystic archery skill and fancy University education. . . and she still has gaping holes in her training.

ghastley- Luciana was a street-wise blast to write. Fortunately, Buffy was just smart enough to play along with the disease ploy.

King Coin- Thank you. Aravi's Aleswell Cottage is sooo much more inviting than that rough and tumble tavern. And it looks plenty big for a party!

Rider- Ol' Kurz just is not having much luck in Bravil so far, is he? Dead ends on both Buffy and his murder investigation, then getting trounced by Ancondil over in TF! I'm so honored that our depiction of Luciana has influenced your view of her. I know exactly what you mean; my view of Aelwin, Morvayn, Enilroth and many others has been quite flavored by OHDH. I see Luciana as quick thinking and tavern-savvy - a pair of qualities that Buffy quite lacks.

SubRosa- Heh, we'll keep the 'Star Wars' motif for one more episode. Poor orcs just can't win with the woodsters. Poor Ancondil got stopped by Sappho, and poor Kurz by fear of blood lung. You're right, Buffy's a magic geek and has lots to learn about (in Luciana's words), "Where lower urges meet real life." I remember how you enjoyed the little Khajiit/wine/Nord bar fight in 1.0 and am so glad it provided a fun touch of background clutter again!

Ceidwad- By Mara! Buffy and I so enjoyed writing this episode. The encouragement of your kind words is so very humbling. Thank you.

Zalphon- Heh! I just couldn't stop thinking of the Star Wars Cantina as we wrote that scene. Here is your 1 minute clip from the movie .

Grits- I'm so glad you enjoyed the friendship that Buffy and Alawen built from their shared similarities, differences, adventure, then quiet time together. Thank you also for the kind words regarding some of our descriptions. Given your own magnificent talent for understated humor, I'm so glad Luciana managed to tickle your funny bone.



I had known Luciana Galena, albeit not well, all my life. I was reassured somewhat by the fact that the late City Swimmer had called the Breton a friend. I wanted to trust her and, frankly, wasn't doing well at all on my own. "Luciana, there's a powerful archery scroll loose in the city. I fear it could sabotage the tournament and jeopardize Daenlin's title as champion. Whoever has it is both dangerous and violent. Probably cunning, too."

"Why didn't you say so, instead of dancing around the milk thistle bush?" Luciana frowned. "There's been someone trying to sell such a scroll all right. Further, he meets every bit of your description and then some." Suddenly, her face went pale. "Uh oh, speak of the beast."

I followed her pointing finger to the orc that filled the doorway of The Lonely Suitor Lodge. As his cruel eyes quickly surveyed the tavern, I noted the handle of a large weapon that protruded well above one heavy orcish pauldron. With a scowl, he turned and made his way to the staircase. Most of the crowd parted for him; those who didn't were roughly shouldered aside. Before he disappeared upstairs, I could see that the well-worn handle on his back descended into the massive business end of a warhammer. The gleaming head of the weapon was the color of the orc's skin.

Kurdan gro-Dragol's involvement made perfect sense. He embraced the worst part of Bravil's dark side. With his appetite for loan sharking, extortion and anything else where violence could generate profit, he was a one-orc organized crime ring. More than anyone else in Bravil, he could instill fear - the kind I had seen in Ungarion's eyes when the black marketer refused to divulge who had bought the drain marksman scroll.

"Be careful, Buffy." Luciana's hand on one shoulder gently shook my attention back to her. "Don't tangle with Kurdan; it's not worth it. He's mean, smart and would kill his own mother for a fistful of septims. You should just forget about that scroll."

She then pinched some color back into her cheeks and rose to her feet. With hips swaying and fingers twirling a lock of shining black hair, she drifted toward a visiting merchant with a heavy coin purse displayed at his belt.

Luciana's barstool was quickly taken by a Redguard. The man had a long scar that ran down one cheek and a saber dangling from his left hip. After telling me he was a crewman with one of the visiting ships that now crowded the docks for the tournament, he offered to buy me a drink. I clung to my empty ale bottle as if it were full, then shook my head and then turned away.

The Redguard didn't persist. Aloofness did not come easily to me, but I admitted that Luciana knew a lot more about how to stay out of trouble in a rough tavern than I did. I was grateful for her lessons that allowed me to focus on my purpose here. I thought about how to best approach the dangerous orc upstairs.

Finally, I took a deep breath, let it out noisily and set my bottle on the bar. Standing, I rearranged my bow and quiver, then made my way to the stairs and up to the second floor of The Lonely Suitor Lodge.

"Well, if it isn't little Buffy," the orc scoffed. "What do you want, twig?"

Normally, I considered the term for a young wood elf rather endearing, but certainly not coming from the menacing Kurdan. I held my position near the top of the stairs. "I understand you have a scroll that could help me win the tournament by weakening my competition. I'd like to buy it."

"Betraying the current champion, is it? I didn't think you had it in you, kid. I like that." One side of his upper lip rose slightly.

Okay, Buffy, so far so good with your deception. I had figured that appealing to Kurdan's sense of honor would have simply gotten a laugh. I dropped my coin purse on the small table near the top of the stairs, allowing the sound to emphasize its considerable weight.

The orc glanced at the bag of gold as his tongue slid out to lick a yellow tusk. "That'll get you in the door." Cruel dark eyes then very slowly worked their way from my head to my toes, making me feel uncomfortably like a rabbit hanging in a butcher shop for inspection. "How about we slide into my office, get comfortable and we can discuss what else it'll cost you." His gesture at the nearby bed made it clear what he meant by 'office'.

After my experiences downstairs, why was this not a surprise? I wished I had taken the time to learn a little more from Luciana. Well, here goes. "I am but a clumsy young elf. With this gold, surely you could afford a woman of more skill and experience?"

"Nah, I like 'em young and trainable."

Well, that didn't work so well. I tried to remember more of what Luciana had told me. As uncomfortable as I was, I had no trouble summoning a desired flush of embarrassment to support my newly fabricated backup plan. "Um, Kurdan, I'm sorry, but it is an awkward time in my cycle. I fear you would find things. . . colorful."

"Oh for the sake of Malacath!" Kurdan snapped. "Do you think an orc cares about that? Make up your mind or we're done here."

There was no reason to believe that a lie about having some contagious disease would forestall the inevitable. I dropped the act and picked up my bag of gold. "It's not going to happen, Kurdan."

"Hey, if you got frost-enchanted britches, that’s your problem. I already sold the scroll anyway."

"What?!?" I snarled. "You would have let me -" Stop, Buffy. This isn't going to get you anywhere. You already know this orc would sell his mother. I managed to lower my voice to a hiss, "And who, pray tell, did you sell it to?"

"What's it worth to you, tree hugger?"

Hadn't we just gone through this? "Not what you're asking."

"You're lucky I even offered to deal with you, elf. Everything about you is too damn small except for those big ears. Now, get out."

As I glared up at the orc across the room, I could feel my jaw tighten and the emerald dancing cobra straining to escape my clenched fist. "Or what?" My anger at the stinging truth of his insults had served to prevent tears; unfortunately, that same anger was responsible for the poorly considered challenge that had just escaped my lips.

One large hand moved slowly behind his back, no doubt to rest on the haft of his warhammer. Dark eyes seethed with venom. "Take your best shot, you frigid, gutless little wench."

I knew what the orc was doing. Despite killing several Bravilians, Kurdan had never spent a day in prison. His tactic was to goad an opponent into attacking first. He was well-equipped to survive almost any first strike, then slaughter his assailant and claim self-defense. It was my move again.

Giving voice to my anger had cost me. Kurdan's hatred was now reinforced beyond my ability to magically charm any cooperation from him. Was it to be a fight then? Motivated by a silly archery tournament and my hurt pride? Perhaps by alternating spell and bow, I could immobilize him long enough to win. Then again, he might get one hit with his warhammer - that's all it would take to kill me. I sure didn't have any maneuvering room up here, and I was painfully familiar with how much space it took to stop the charge of an orc. Perhaps I could make it downstairs, but to what end? Only to have him kill half the patrons in the bar during the brawl that would surely ensue?

I took a deep breath, then used fear to help swallow my temper. "You win this round, Kurdan." Calming the glow in my hand, I started very slowly backing away from the deadly encounter.

"You've earned a dangerous enemy tonight, wood elf."

Since I lacked both the stones and steel to take him toe-to-toe, I kept my mouth shut as I slowly continued backing down the stairs.

Once outside, I leaned unsteadily against the old building and breathed deeply of the cool freshness. Kud-Ei had told me that wisdom comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgment. Of course, Boderi had assured me that bad judgment gets you killed. I wasn't sure if I was any wiser, but at least I was alive.

After my heart had slowed its pounding, I whispered into the night air, "Daenlin, I've been poked, groped, propositioned and threatened tonight. I surely hope you appreciate what I'm putting myself through for your silly tournament."

I slipped the coin purse from my waist into my pack, then wandered aimlessly as I pondered what to do next. Despite the late hour, Bravil was still quite alive with the banter of vendors and visitors. Thieves and pickpockets moved quietly, with watchful eyes, among the streetlamps and shadows.

Searching for the elusive scroll, among the multitudes of men and mer that now swelled Bravil for the tournament, was akin to seeking a particular drop of water in the Niben. I needed eyes and ears that moved freely but unnoticed in the dark waters of the night. With a plan now forming, my feet turned toward home. A brief stop there would provide the tools I needed - potatoes, carrots, venison. . . .

Oh my gosh! I never saw it coming, but I recognized Kurdan right away! *shiver* I am impressed with Buffy’s self-control as she backed down from Kurdan. Then her application of logic to Kud-Ei and Boderi’s advice was a nice chuckle-inducing Buffy moment after a very tense ordeal!

A brief stop there would provide the tools I needed - potatoes, carrots, venison. . . .

A “Summon Aradroth” potion? No, only a brief stop home… Hmmm…

I would like one of those myself, lol. Where is The Wolf when you need him? ROFL !!



@ Acadian - This chapter was riveting from beginning to end, touches of humor woven into the tight tension of the episode - still, this is my fave line in the chapter, it can't be topped :




AWESOME WRITE !!!!!

A historic post! This is the last of the segments from Buffy 1.0. From here on out, we are in virgin territory once more. Congrats for finally reaching that point.

a fistful of septims
A wonderful ES-ized allusion to a classic Man With No Name movie!

I suppose it is no surprise that Kurdan would be behind the scroll. He was just as big, nasty, uncouth, and repulsive as the title of this segment. He even insulted Buffy's ears! Poor thing. If only Ancondil were there to learn him some manners...

Buffy shows her dragon side by wanting to do the latter herself. But at the same time good judgment in not doing so. That was not the time or place. Still, Kurdan might be joining Earana in the hereafter sometime soon...

Now the big question is, who did he sell the scroll too? Poor Buffy, all her work, and still she is back to where she started. All for Daenlin's silly tournament! I am sure the old man does indeed appreciate it all. Or would, if he knew what his little twig was up to.

So Buffy is looking for unseen eyes and ears? That can only mean one thing. Time to talk to the beggars.

I'm with Sage Rose here - truly a historic moment as we reach the end of BF 1.0. Looking forward to what happens next! It has taken you what, a year, to reach this point? Congratulations!

Kurdan is as menacing as ever. For some reason, I always think of Clancy Brown in the original Highlander movie. He was terrifying, especially with his height and gravelly voice. And it's that voice I hear in my head whenever Kurdan gro-Dragol speaks - in game or in fan fiction. Probably because beyond the similarity in bulk, voice and menace, they share similar names - Kurdan vs. Kurgan. Congratulations on keeping that similarity alive in writing Kurdan. He really is larger than life, as the ultimate villians should be. Mannimarco really has nothing on him!

Buffy's decision to back down is a wise one. After all, what's more important, getting killed in her anger, or living to fight another day? For as long as she stays alive, there will be another day for her to pick her fight with Kurdan. Even if she had killed him this time, she could get slammed in jail for murder, given his penchant of goading others in throwing the first punch.

Now I'm going to be waiting with bated breath to see what happens next!

Why isn't Buffy a good little liar...

By the way, the Cantina Song rocks! Is it bad that I can name every instrument they play from the Holobox to the something Horn IIRC. Go Cantina Band!

I like this chapter. Buffy really should have held her tongue, but I'm proud that she stood up for herself to someone that would really outclass her in a fair fight. Buffy never fights fair though

Buffy sure can pick them, eh? Kurz gro-Baroth and now this thug. Luciana has the right idea.

You have a real talent for these subplots, like the Leyawiin series and now this. I wonder what's going to happen next? Who bought the scroll? There are sure to be lots of exciting twists to come!

I loved how Buffy kind of planned the fight between her and Kurdan first before deciding against it, if it were me against Kurdan i wouldn't think twice... i'd get out of there!

But that is the thing with Buffy, she's quite headstrong.
the best things always come in small packages

Great write

During Episode 101, Luciana Galena revealed that Kurdan gro-Dragol had been trying to sell a powerful drain marksman scroll. Buffy learned from the uncooperative Kurdan that he had already sold the scroll. Further negotiations deteriorated into a potentially deadly standoff with the dangerous orc. Fear overruled temper as our wood elf backed away from the encounter, with her proverbial tail between her legs. Buffy wandered the dark shadows of Bravil, pondering other sources of information that might help her resolve the threat of tournament sabotage posed by the scroll.

Grits- Thank you for endorsing Buffy's encounter with Kurdan. It was an interesting challenge to build a scene with such mortal tension that resolved without violence. I'm so glad it worked!

mALX- 'Kud-Ei had told me that wisdom comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgment.' Thanks for quoting that passage. It sure seems to apply to Buffy. She quoted it after her almost entry into the DB, after her royal screw up at Borderwatch and again here. Must be true!

SubRosa- I'm so humbled that you note our transition from BF 1.0 inspired content into totally new 2.0 material at this point. Being called a gutless, frigid, little wench was not so bad; it was the crack about her ears that pulled Buffy close to playing into Kurdan's hammer. You astutely nail her reference to 'unseen eyes and ears' as relating to beggars.

Rider- Thank you. Yes! Just over a year to redo, expand and present the original 69 episodes of 1.0 into just over 100 episodes here. I'm so glad Kurdan rings effective as a super villain. Thankfully, Buffy has a very strong survival instinct and is practical enough to reluctantly swallow her pride and temper sometimes. I remember how superbly and creatively Julian outmaneuvered Kurdan with her sharp wit!

Zalphon- I'm still chuckling at your wonderful endorsement of our very non-TES reference the Star Wars Cantina and Jabba the Hut. With that University education and her time spent in the Court of Leyawiin, Buffy is getting better at verbal dueling, including deceit. Not quite good enough vs Kurdan here though.

King Coin- Thank you. By giving voice to her anger, Buffy lost the ability to possibly get some info from Kurdan using a charm spell. She's got spunk, but sometimes it shoves her brain to the side a little. Lol.

Ceidwad- Heh. Buffy might start to wonder if orcs have a thing for wood nymphs! Despite a bad night, Buffy greatly respects orcs. After all, she has seen the beautiful simple nobility and awesome power of orcs like Mazoga and Agronak gro-Malog. Thank you so much for endorsing our limited excursion into some subplot weaving in support of the tournament storyline.

Rihanae- Buffy doesn't think quickly, but she really is pretty good at ruminating on one hand while considering the other and trying to sort out what to do. Aww, thanks for the 'best things always come in small packages' comment. Buffy sends -



I slipped through the dark alley between my house and Daenlin's, emerging onto the grassy field that spanned from behind of our homes to the city's south wall. Rather than the single small campfire I expected to see, no less than a dozen flickering tiny flame pits trailed smoky despair up into the night. Each was tended by a beggar, some by two or three as I wandered, searching.

The bustle and festive feel that, even at this late hour, marked the rest of the city during the tournament was absent here. In its place was the quiet hunger and sadness of dirty faces and broken lives. I recognized the hunched shoulders and gray hair tied into a queue that identified Cosmus the Cheat.

"Hail, you old Imperial." I lowered myself to the ground next to him and laid Slayer by my side. "Are you sober tonight?"

The beggar nodded sadly. "No gold, no wine."

"I know it sounds harsh Cosmus, but I'm glad you have no gold. You simply convert it to liquid trouble." I gestured toward the small pot hanging above his fire. "What's in your stew?"

"A rock and a onion. Times be hard. Lots o' gold in town for this here tournament, but," he waved vaguely at the other small campfires, "even more thieves and beggers swarmin' to chase it."

I placed my small food bag on the ground and opened it. Handing Cosmus a potato, I instructed, "Get out your knife and cut this up." After placing some salt and herbs into the pot, I then drew my own blade and began slicing venison into small pieces.

Cosmus looked at the bag as he worked. "Sure you ain't got no wine in there?"

I glared at him. "What happened to that job I got you as a stockman at The Fair Deal last time I was in town?"

His eyes went back to the potato. "Nilawen fired me."

"And why was that?" Nilawen and I talked enough that I already knew the sad answer.

"'Cuz I stole some cheap wine."

I shook my head. "You're going to end up like City Swimmer if you keep stealing. Cosmus, I can find you perfectly good jobs mucking stalls at the stables, helping to unload visiting ships or perhaps even washing dishes at the Silverhome. You have friends like Daenlin and I, who can offer encouragement, but only you can decide if you want to stop with the thieving and the wine." I placed my hand against his forehead then frowned. "Oh, just look at you." Handing him a pink vial, I said, "You've got the chills again. Here, this will cure you - for now. Until you decide to straighten out though, you'll just keep getting sick."

"Buffy, don't think I ain't grateful." Cosmus sipped on the potion. "Not s'many that tries to help me. Some folks toss a septim or two, but that's mostly to make me go away."

Soon, we were sharing a couple wooden bowls of stew and a loaf of bread. "Cosmus, I'm trying to track down a problem. It seems Kurdan gro-Dragol sold a magic scroll to someone that could sabotage the archery tournament. I don't need to tell you how important the tournament is to our friend, Daenlin. Do you know anything about it?"

"I knows plenty. No one pays me no mind. They just looks away or ignores me. I sees and hears what goes on though, I do."

"Can you tell me who Kurdan's been dealing with lately?" I asked.

"Plenty o' folks, with this bow contest goin' on. He does lots of business, most of it outside The Lonely Suitor at night. One of them tall elves - this one had gray hair and a bow. Fancies himself a mountain man they say. He tried to buy that scroll of Kurdan's till he learnt it makes you shoot worse than better. Guess he wanted to impress the ladies or sumthin' by winnin' the contest."

"I think you're right," I said. "Who else have you seen with Kurdan?"

"Well, this bald fella from out of town. I seen him luggin' cases of wine into The Lonely Suitor, then talkin' with the orc outside."

"Could you tell what kind of wine?"

The old beggar grinned, displaying crooked brown teeth. "Does a black bear crap in the forest? I knows me wines. Them cases had the Brothers Surilie mark on 'em, they did, and the old fella was a Imperial."

"That would be Reman Broder." I recalled the Imperial's menacing remarks to Daenlin. "Do you know anything of his business with Kurdan?"

"The orc yelled at him. Sumthin' about don't come back till he had more gold. The bald fellow ran off shakin' like a leaf. Came back to the Suitor several more times with cases of wine, but dunno if he ever got enough gold to buy that scroll."

Cosmus spooned part of his second bowl of stew back into the pot and belched loudly. "Then there was Hans Black-Nail. Seems he fell into the same kinda thinkin' as that Altmer. Was lookin' to buy a scroll to shoot better, not worse."

"Hans?" I asked. I could not imagine what the castle smith would have to do with this. "Any idea what he was up to?" I took a pull from my water bag and offered it to Cosmus.

"Water?" The beggar made an unpleasant face and shook his head vigorously. "You know what fish do in that stuff?" After rubbing his chin, the Imperial continued, "Most likely, Hans was runnin' a errand for the Count's boy. Word is, the little skooma sucker was hopin' to scroll himself into being able to shoot a bow and become some kinda champ like his old man used to be. Well, Hans went away empty handed." The beggar then spit into his fire.

"Cosmus, this is really helpful."

"You always been a kind elf, not lookin' t'other way or treatin' me like I weren't there, Buffy. You been nice since you was knee-high to an imp, followin' old Daenlin around everywhere. I'm glad I knows sumthin' that's of help to you."

It was Daenlin that had, several years ago, gotten me into the habit of sharing my kills. I had provided Cosmus a full belly many times, and was pleased the old beggar was talking so openly with me now.

"Aleron Loche been hangin' around too, talkin' with Kurdan," Cosmus said. "Always about gold. I figure he be tryin' to borrow some. Likely for bettin' if I knows Aleron. Shame, him gamblin' so much. 'Specially with that pretty wife of his. I hear she spends lots of time over in the chapel prayin' for Aleron to stop with the gamblin'."

Aleron Loche was well known to over bet his purse. His wife, Ursanne, was as kind as Mara herself and worked odd jobs to try and help them get by. "Can you think of anything else, Cosmus?"

"Just Nordinor, and that other wood elf dressed in black - you know, the dangerous lookin' one?"

My eyes opened wider at the reference to Nordinor and Aradroth. "I do indeed. What do you know of their involvement in this?"

"T'was a shoutin' contest, it were." He gestured toward The Lonely Suitor. "Happened last night, right outside the tavern. Kurdan said he just sold the scroll. Well, Nordinor sure was angry and wanted to know who bought it. He was sayin' sumthin about how that scroll could throw his numbers outta whack and cost him his shirt. I thought Kurdan was gonna pull that big green hammer and squash the little mer like a mud crab. Nordinor looked like he was gonna piss in his shoes. Can't say I blames him."

"I knows - I mean, I know - the feeling, Cosmus. What happened next?"

"Well, the mean lookin' elf in black stepped back and pulled his bow and a arrow on Kurdan and said sumthin' I couldn't hear. That orc was scowlin' and cursin', but he let 'em both back away. I never seen anyone draw down on Kurdan and live 'afore. Well anyway, Buffy, that's all I knows. Did I do good?"

"Cosmus, you're wonderful." I smiled, kissed the tips of my fingers and pressed them to his forehead; the mild fever was much better after my potion and a decent meal. "It seems I have work to do." I reached for Slayer and rose to my feet. "See Daenlin or I if you get hungry."

Trailing words behind me, I added, "And try to stay off the wine, Cosmus."

Ooh, what a wonderful little sit-down with a beggar! Bless Buffy's heart - twasn't that long ago that Julian would have been the one sitting by the fire with her!

I think you've captured Cosmus's personality well, from his manner of speech to his little idioms -- Water? You know what fish do in that stuff? -- to the fever and brown teeth. We see both the pathos and the tiny shred of dignity that this beggar possesses.

And how nice to see Buffy reaping the rewards of her past kindnesses!

Oh I love this. Buffy goes from one extreme to the other. She enjoys killing bandits and making them suffer, and then feeds a beggar with her own food.

Another favorite chapter! Buffy's quiet moments with her Bravil "family" are always my favorites !! You know which line in the chapter I would love best, but I'll quote it anyway, lol. :



Great Write !!! WOO HOO !!!

a dozen flickering tiny flame pits trailed smoky despair up into the night
This was a excellent description of the beggar's quarter of Bravil.

A wonderful depiction of Cosmus the Cheat here. He really shines through this entire segment, in all his grubby glory. His mannerisms really make him distinct and unique. You show us that his kleptomania and alcoholism are why he is a beggar, without telling us that. Another great example of show vs. tell in writing. At the same time that we see just how helpful he can be, as he returns the favors Buffy has shown him with valuable information on the goings on in Bravil's underworld. Something no one else could have provided.

And does Cosmus deliver! Buffy should have went to him first thing, he has been her best source of leads in the scroll hunt so far. I love how most of the people going to Kurdan for the scroll wanted one to make them better so that they could win, rather than make someone else worse. The difference in attitudes really is dramatic. Because only a competitor who was good enough to place 2nd would have a use for the drain marskman scroll. It would knock out Daenlin, and let them take first in his place. That would make Buffy the prime suspect! But we know it is not Buffy, which means the person after the scroll must not be a competitor. This narrows down the field somewhat, and tells us that their motives are not winning the tourney, but rather seeing someone lose it.

One of them tall elves
What an excellent way of saying "high elf" without saying it!

"Water?" The beggar made an unpleasant face and shook his head vigorously. "You know what fish do in that stuff?"
I know it has been remarked on already, but this was truly an excellent line. Not only funny, but also because it speaks volumes about Cosmus.

and that other wood elf dressed in black
Yikes, it's the Man In Black! Or maybe Aradroth...

I knows - I mean, I know -
So cute to see Buffy slip into Cosmus' speech patterns!

Finally do I detect the pitter patter of tiny foreshadowing feet with the news that Aleron Loche is borrowing money to gamble on the tourney? Given that Daenlin is the seven time champion, I suspect he is going to put the money on Buffy's foster dad. An easy bet some would say. Since it would probably be at 1-1 odds, he would need a really big stake in order to make anything worthwhile off of it. Which explains needing to borrow money from Jabba Kurdan.


nits:
It was Deanlin
I think the ghost of James Dean reversed the "a" and "e" in Daenlin.

There are simply so many things I cant help but love about this chapter, so I shall show you a couple of my favorite lines:

'I'm glad you have no gold. You simply convert ot into liquid trouble.'
This is BRILLIANT! Literally made me LOL. Very Buffy

'See Daenlin or I if you get hungry.'
So so so cute! I love the compassion Buffy shows towards Cosmus during the whole chapter.

Loved it!!

Well, we've eliminated a lot of suspects in one episode. All those who thought the scroll would make them shoot better, most of those who'd want to make someone else shoot worse, and Nordinor, who didn't know about it in time. As our Sage has pointed out, the number one suspect in everyone else's mind would be the archer in second place.

I'm suspecting Alawen. Her motive is to prevent its use, and she's just got a share of treasure to spend on it. But then I'm also expecting at least a double-cross from Kurdan, if he survives to pull it off. Looks like more than one potential source of an arrow from the shadows in his directions. If twenty arrows hit him at once, can everybody deny theirs was the one to kill him?

Finally caught up!!

I have perused the earlier chapters- Nordinor (the bookie) and Aradroth (the black henchman) was such a cool idea. Aradroth really comes across as a fully paid member of the Bravil underworld, sitting with his back against the wall and watching the door like any true criminal does!

The sly smile breaks down the outside cool exterior, however. People might think that Aradroth is a cuddly bear.....

Buffy & Alawen were a delight against the bank of the Panther, with horses grazing nearby and a very intriguing background story. Thanks for putting the Nibenay into the Buffy fic. More, more, I say!!

Great to see Buffy delving into the sewer streets of Bravil. The rich pavilions of the day are always a stark contrast to the poor and grimy areas of the poor and downtrodden. Kind of reminds me of the Jack the Ripper east end of the 1880's. Be careful Buffy!

I smiled at the thought of Kurdan and Nordinor involved in a shouting match. That is a scene I would pay money to watch.

And Aradroth pulls a bow on him....wow, these gambling boys mean business!!

nits- Jabba the Hut / Jabba the Hutt.

Apologies for my recent absence, I was hard at work on my new mod. But now that it's seen release, I can get back into things here.

Chapter 100-

I see Buffy still has much to learn about the ways of men. You want to know what the big mystery is? We think with our loins first. There you go, problem solved!

Luciana is a wonderful character. That little lesson on how to play coy was priceless.

Also, it seems that Buffy’s past misdeeds are beginning to catch up to her, as they should. I am fully expecting the day when she has to face up to the bad choices she has made early in her life, but I won’t be happy for that day to come. It’s more in the nail-biting expectation that I wait for the fateful moment to come. I surely do not want for her to tried as a murderer, as that would destroy everything she has worked so hard to build. She’ll be expelled from the Mages Guild, have shamed her late family, as well as supremely disappointed Daenlin, and effectively will be ostracized from the world she lives in now. Ever wonder why the Dark Brotherhood call themselves family?

If you take a life, do you know what you give? Odds are you won’t like what it is.

Chapter 101-

Now, now, Buffy, do not be too sure Daenlin will take the news of your derringdo well. I’m sure he would be touched, but I couldn’t ever see him being impressed that you were willing to throw your dignity around in such a way all for the sake of his tournament. He is a master, and he knows all too well that even a master has to slip at some time. Don’t you think he would prefer it if you were there to take the win if he gets sabotaged than if you were to be killed trying to figure out who was trying to do so? At least then, you would save his dignity, as well as make him a very proud man.

Chapter 102-

Yup, if you need info, and need it fast, talk to the beggars. They don’t advise the Thieves Guild for nothing.

I wonder what Aradroth might know about Kurdan to have made him back off like that? Perhaps he would be willing to share? It’s always a good idea to have blackmail ready for persuasion, especially when the man mer in question deals in blood and dirty money.

And with that, I’m back up to speed!

Chapter 7.1 review

It was only now, in the aftermath of the fight, I realized that I had peed myself.
Poor Buffy! Although, were I in such a situation, I might do the same!

I especially liked the way you described those swinging blades--the sounds they made and how deafening the noise was.

The way you describe action scenes is excellent. (I find myself using that word an awful lot... ) The detail you add makes it come alive.

Episode 102 found Buffy sharing a late meal with Cosmus the Cheat. The beggar revealed quite a bit about the recent dealings of Kurdan gro-Dragol, giving Buffy several leads about the vexing drain marksman scroll she is investigating. She seemed quite concerned to learn that Nordinor and Aradroth were somehow involved.

Rider- Thank you for noting that that Cosmus' personality and some of his troubles came through okay. I'm so glad that Julian pulled herself away from that life! I'm glad you liked Cosmus' reaction to being offered water; I stole the reaction from Mrs Acadian (she's a diet coke baby).

King Coin- Buffy is very nurturing. Well, to those who mean her no harm anyway.

mALX- Thanks for noting the little extra depth we tried to provide regarding not only Cosmus, but Buffy's history in Bravil. Thanks also for quoting Cosmus' reaction to water.

SubRosa- Thanks for liking our intro to the beggar camp where I tried to capture some despair. It seemed natural that the tournament would attract an influx of thieves, pickpockets and beggars from beyond Bravil - even to the point of competing with Bravil's own population of them. And dear Cosmus did indeed deliver a wagon load of suspects! At least many could be weeded out. I appreciate you drawing out Buffy's momentary lapse into Cosmus' speech pattern; she is educated, but also young and impressionable so it seemed to flow quite naturally - thanks for the endorsement that it worked. Thanks also for the nit so I could fix it.

Rihanae- Thanks for highlighting Buffy's concern that any gold given to Cosmus would simply turn into wine. I was trying to show Buffy's strong underlying compassion (toward those who are kind to her), but temper it with some aspects of almost a maternal nagging and even 'tough love'.

ghastley- I'm so glad you're enjoying our humble subplot involving that pesky scroll. Oooh, Alawen - that is an interesting suspect!

Wolf- Thanks for those kind words, my friend. And again, thank you for allowing Aradroth to participate in the tournament. He adds a wonderful hard and mysterious edge to things. Thanks also for the nit - fixed.

TK- Thank you for your interesting perspective on Buffy. The imperfect elf relies on a very strong survival instinct and the Buffy Doctrine to help guide her. Welcome back, and I hope the modding has been going well!

Lady Syl- Thank you so much for your review of Buffy getting the pee knocked out of her clearing the upper portion of Vilverin. That was her first encounter with blade traps. It's such a joy to hear your views on her earlier episodes, and I'm grateful!



Stepping into the alley between Silverhome on the Water and The Fair Deal, I touched my fingertips to the head of a torch. I then lifted the flaming brand against the night. Several shadowy figures cursed and scurried away like rats - skooma addicts. The one figure that remained was Nordinor.

"Well, it's always a pleasure to see you, Buffy. What brings you to my outdoor storefront at this late hour?"

"I'm sorry I've frightened away your customers," I replied.

"Not to worry, they'll be back," the Bosmer said. "They can't help themselves, you see."

His words were a stark reminder that the livelihood of the often jovial elf did indeed include feeding the misery of others. I dropped the pleasantness. "Look, I know there's a powerful scroll loose in town that could sabotage the tournament, and you're somehow involved." I could hear the anger rising in my voice. "You know as well as I how important this event is to Daenlin. I thought he was your frien-"

"Whoa," interrupted Nordinor with a raised hand. "Settle down, Buffy. Of course I'm Daenlin's friend. I'm also your friend. Have I not always showed kindness to both of you?

"I'll admit that you have," I replied to the smooth elf who had deftly disarmed some of my anger, "but I think you'd better start explaining what you know."

"I always keep an ear toward The Lonely Suitor, so I knew of Kurdan's scroll," Nordinor began. "Such a thing could ruin my bookmaking - throw the odds so far off I could lose my shirt. I want that scroll out of circulation as badly as you do."

"Go on," I commanded skeptically.

"After scraping my gold together, I tried to buy the scroll last night. I figured I could sell it to the Mages Guild and trust them to keep it out of the wrong hands. That way, I could get most of my gold back and prevent someone from manipulating the odds. Buffy, a bookmaker lives or dies by the accuracy of his numbers. That scroll could destroy me. Do you understand?"

"Not exactly," I said honestly, "but I'm beginning to see that you don't want sabotage either." I wanted to believe that Nordinor spoke the truth, and decided to test his story. "What happened when you tried to buy the scroll?"

The Bosmer frowned. "I was too late. I tried to get Kurdan to tell me who he sold it to so I could make an offer to the new owner. The big green troll wouldn't tell me, then he got belligerent." The skooma dealer's face blanched. "Buffy, have you ever been threatened by an orc with a warhammer?"

"Yes I have, Nordinor. I know it can be terrifying. What happened?"

"Thank Nocturnal that Aradroth was with me. He stepped back, drew his bow and aimed in on Kurdan's face. I figure staring down an arrow into those cold gray eyes is about as scary as facing Kurdan. Aradroth then quietly explained exactly what the enchantment on his bow could do. Well, it worked - at least long enough for us to back away. Someone needs to do something about that damn orc."

Nordinor had just gained some credibility. His story matched what Cosmus had reported to me. "And what is Aradroth's involvement in this? Are you two perhaps trying to manipulate a win for him in the tournament?"

"Buffy, do you think you are the only one in this town that likes and respects your friend Daenlin? Aradroth is no master archer, nor does he care for your tourney. The only reason he is competing is because someone," Nordinor wagged an accusing finger at me, "showed a newcomer some kindness and asked him to enter the tournament as a show of support for the current champion."

I said a little sheepishly, "Well, you have a point there."

The Bosmer continued with what appeared to be earnest conviction, "Neither Aradroth nor I would betray Daenlin. The mer in black was only with me last night so I could buy him an ale at the Suitor. I was hoping he would tell me about some of the treasures he found recently while imp hunting at Robber's Glen Cave."

"I-I'm sorry, Nordinor. Nilawen knows you better than I, and she accepts you for what you are. I guess I should too."

"I understand, Buffy. There's nothing confidence-inspiring about my business ventures." He sighed and rubbed his chin. "So, it seems our purposes merge, yes? We both want a clean tournament."

"Agreed," I said. "So you think your betting operation may have something to do with it? How can that help us solve this?"

"Well, it can't right now," he replied. "We won't know the ten finalists until the qualification period ends tomorrow afternoon. Then I can finalize my odds and open my books for betting. I suspect there's a good chance that might flush out our culprit."

I cocked my head. "How so? I know nothing of betting."

"Of course you don't, Buffy. Let's say, for example, the top two contenders remain Daenlin and you."

"Oh, that would be great!" I chirped.

"If I intended to use that scroll," the Bosmer continued patiently, "I'd put big money on you. Then I'd use the scroll on Daenlin to ensure he didn't win. So, we just have to-"

"Wait, Nordinor," I interrupted, "wouldn't it be better to just bet on Daenlin and avoid the risk of trying to sabotage things?"

"Odds, Buffy. With this example, if Daenlin retains his championship, it's not a great payoff. If you were to win however, the odds force a much bigger profit to those who bet on you. Do you understand?"

"I think so," I said, hoping my words would not betray that I was clueless. "So you will watch for unusual betting?"

"Well, yes," he replied with a thoughtful nod. "I'll be looking for gamblers dropping more gold than their purses should allow, particularly if it is on the number two contender."

"Since your betting operation is sanctioned by the castle, if you figure out who it is you'll turn them over to city guard, right?"

The Bosmer shook his head. "The guards can do nothing until the damage is done."

I thought about Aradroth again. Nordinor had convinced the assassin to advise him on archery matters. "I don't want this tournament sabotaged, but I don't want anyone killed either. You're better than Kurdan gro-Dragol," I raised an eyebrow and added, "aren't you?"

"Look, I run non-violent businesses here, and never coerce anyone to do anything. I wouldn't last very long if I started allowing people I deal with to be killed. Buffy, you'll have to trust me on this. What I do isn't necessarily something to be proud of, but I assure you I'm pretty good at it."

I heaved a sigh. "What can I do to help?"

The Bosmer smiled. I thought I saw kindness and indulgence on his face. "Leave this to me, Buffy. You shoot well when the time comes, and let me do what I do best. Check back with me tomorrow evening, once I've had a few hours to monitor the betting. I may know something then."

I had denounced killing to solve this mystery and, in so doing, defanged any intimidation I could impress upon Nordinor. I paused for a moment to carefully craft my next words. Rather than a threat, I wanted to intentionally sound vulnerable and play upon Nordinor's professed friendship. Perhaps being a young she-elf, which had plagued me all night, could now work to my favor.

"Nordinor," I said softly, "when you first arrived in Bravil, I welcomed you with trust, as I did Aradroth more recently." I lowered and raised my eyelashes once - slowly, like I had seen Luciana Galena do. "I moved into the Mages Guild so you could use Nilawen's spare room until I could afford a home of my own. I've never spoken of your activities to my friends Gladius Maro, Gaius Prentus or Caccian Apinia in the Bravil Guard. Both Daenlin and I call you friend. Please do not betray us."

Nordinor nodded. "Tomorrow evening, Buffy."

I hoped I was right in trusting the shady Bosmer. The fact of the matter was, I saw little choice.

* From Buffy's scrapbook: Screenshot

Hey! I caught up! Would you even believe such a thing could be possible, as I am several THREADS away? Whew!

Anyway, I think I might know who the culprit is. Emphasis on might. I still am not sure, but I've a suspicion layed on him. I just have to wait until Buffy finds to see if I'm right.

WOO HOO !!! Johnny Cash !!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o22eIJDtKho



@ Acadian - ARADROTH !!! WOO HOO !!! Buffy is hilarious as the detective trying to get to the bottom of someone trying to "fix" the tourney - while she (without realizing it) walks a very fine line in doing just that in the name of "ensuring Daenlin wins!" Her naivety in her own actions is endearing - I see a strong lecture from Daenlin in her future if he finds out though, lol.

Buffy's heart is so obviously in the right place, and her love for Daenlin is clear in these chapters. Awesome Write, Acadian !!! You are really giving a great glimpse of what goes on "behind the scenes" at competitions of this sort !!! Love these tourney chapters !!!

An unlikely ally perhaps. Of all people though, fixing the tournament should be right up his alley

I then lifted the flaming brand against the night.
I see magic is good for more than just heating tea!

I see Buffy has finally gotten tired of beating around the bush, as she did was Luciana, and instead is just getting straight down to business with Nordinor instead (isn't Nordinor an odd name for a Bosmer? You would think it would be Woodinor, or Bosinor, instead). I see she does not trust him enough to just take his word either, but compared his version of events at the Star Wars Cantina to what Cosmus told her. Smart girl.

Nordinor however, does have some good advice, and seems to be a key ally in Buffy's hunt for the elusive scroll. Of course, he is looking at things from a purely for-profit angle. What if the possessor of the scroll has no desire to win money, but instead is acting purely from spite to discredit one of the contenders? Then anyone could be the target, and anyone the culprit.

"Buffy, have you ever been threatened by an orc with a warhammer?"
Indeed, she has faced those fast-moving buildings before!

The mer in black
There he is again! I bet he walks the line, and has ridden though a burning ring of fire too!

"Oh, that would be great!" I chirped.
This is so Buffy, her heart right out on her sleeve.

From 102 : Cosmus steals the show with his unexpected squeamishness! I love that Buffy sees the reality of Cosmus’ situation, but that doesn’t diminish her compassion for him. Instead, she offers him help that he needs, but that he can’t use against himself. It makes me think highly of her, as well as the folk who must have provided good examples while she was growing up. Aradroth’s quick draw and quiet words were chilling, even in the re-telling!

From 103 : Wow, only ten finalists! The pressure is on.

"I think so," I said, hoping my words would not betray that I was clueless.
Blondes everywhere thank you for keeping up appearances. Buffy is so charming!!

I lowered and raised my eyelashes once - slowly, like I had seen Luciana Galena do.
Whoa, I think that's at least a journeyman skill!

This tournament that you and SubRosa have brought to us is such a delight. Thank you so much for sharing it!

Huh, finally caught up. Don't know for how long though. Ah well. Illa Vita Est! ('That's Life' for all ye non-speakers of Latin.)

I'm loving Buffy's attempts at playing detective. Maybe, after she's done, she'll try to improve on her skills by training with Basil Rathbone look-a-likes.

These are some great installments showcasing a distinct "brains over brawn/violence/intimidation/well-placed-arrow-to-the-skull" approach. I'm enjoying it, as it's something I don't get to see in Elder Scrolls games often enough. I guess that's why the Stolen Chorrol Painting quests and Order of the Virtuous Blood quests are so fun for me. These types of events are reminders that Tamriel can be a very real place, with very real persons, when the writing is done right.

One nit:

There should be an opening quotation mark at the beginning ("Thank Nocturnal...) to signify the new speaker. Since you have it at the end, it's probably just a typo.

Bosmer...Shady little creatures. One moment they're on your side, the next they're eating their own brother.

This is so much fun! Trailing along behind Buffy and watching her crazy detective skills come to the fore.
As Rosa says, her heart is on her sleeve, and that is what makes the story come across so well!

The only reason he is competing is because someone," Nordinor wagged an accusing finger at me, "showed a newcomer-
Wonderful! From a Bosmer to a Bosmer about a Bosmer. This scene is worth a painting! Imperials may run the empire, but the wood elves have now taken over. Yippee!!

"Oh, that would be great!" I chirped.
The conversation has only going along for a matter of seconds and already Buffy has allowed herself to be sidetracked.
Her personality just shines through in your writing. Magnificent!

I lowered and raised my eyelashes once - slowly, like I had seen Luciana Galena do.
.......

I cannot wait to see Buffy catch up with the bookie. I can already see her trying to decipher the information and ending up more confused then she started!

So Buffy the bowgirl is now a Dee Tactive, hey?

Me like. Me like very very much!!!!