They're not thinking "we" automatically yet, but they're going in that direction. Needs more bonding!

I'm trying to remember the game mechanics for who gets ejected automatically from a closing gate. (I had fun getting it to work properly for Prizna in my mod.) I think that anyone whose editor location is outside pops out, but those who start inside are stuck there. So Menien is not saved in the regular game, because he's "born" in that cage, but would be logically ejected in this narrative, as he started outside. Just to complicate things, the Cheydinhal setup has some special scripting for Farwil and Bremman, so they get moved although the rest of the Knights of the Thorn don't, but it's dependent on the Sigil Tower being non-random.

That leaves Menien's fate all up to Acadian, and we'll have to wait and see.

...That was so cool...

There was much terror and heart tugging in this chapter...

Nicely done!!...

Having closed a few gates with KOTN's Sir Thedret at my side I know that those next to you come back...But having also lost Thedret to a gate I also know that sometimes they don't come back... ...Farewell Menien...

So it's gonna be interesting to see how the mighty Salvian and his Elfin love deal with that...

Brilliant charge up the tower...Loved it....

Excellent stuff...Brilliant as ever...

Nice one!!!...

*Applauds heartily!!*...

Rather than negating its resistances and attacking with a poisoned arrow, can you command it to fight for us?
Indeed he is. An excellent idea.

I loved the frost astronaut blundering into the tower's central fire! Doh!

Methinks that two silenced mages = one triumphant warrior. Let's see... Yep, nothing living there but B&S!

I’ll never let go of you, Savlian.”
This sums up the second half of the post very well, as B&S again argue over who stays and who leaves.

Now to see what happens next. Is it back to Kvatch? Or will there be time to save Menien? I am still not holding my breath for the latter...

I'm just catching up. Enemies Explode?

Caught up. They make a great pair. I have no hope for Menien though. I also hope to be proven wrong.

What an ending to this chapter !!! Matias's plan, their decision, and then the crashing of the tower - HUGE Write !!! Awesome !!! WHEW !!!

I love that Buffy recognized the sigil stone noise. I imagine that they make a sound one wouldn’t forget. What a great description of the menacingly beautiful frost atronach!

I thoroughly enjoyed the fight against the dremora mage. Buffy demonstrated her own magely qualifications when she anticipated the detect life spell and even cast the same spell at the same time as the dremora to curse his magicka. It’s so exciting that the enemies have a full range of spells.

The who should wait by the stone and who should run for it discussion had me very nervous. What a setting for their declaration of love, an exploding sigil tower!! That will be one to tell the grandchildren. Whether or not Menien made it, I guess that Savlian might have to be sat upon to get him to rest before entering the city. I can even imagine him downing some potions and insisting he’s ready.

The damn Gate is closed! Now Savlian can finally do something about his damn home being in flames.

Buffy and Savlian located the sigil stone that sustained Kvatch’s Oblivion Gate in Episode 156. Their emotional debate about running directly to safety, splitting forces, and trying to rescue Menien was for naught. As soon as Savlian grabbed the stone, they were frozen in time and space as the tower crumbled beneath them.

KC- Buffy had no trouble paralyzing that flame atronach, as they have no resistance to the effect in Oblivion. I suspect you may have been thinking of Skyrim flamies, which are immune to paralysis. Thank you for noting Buffy trying to manipulate Savlian’s words to her purpose.

ghastley- Yes, more bonding! Coming up, we’ll try to show how far Buffy and Savlian have come at reading each other. We’ll also reveal Menien’s fate.

McBadgere- Romance and combat continue to be an odd and challenging combination to portray, so I thank you very much for using the words ‘terror’ and ‘heart tugging’ in the same breath.

SubRosa- Thanks! I learned the hard way with a BB (Before Buffy) character that touching a sigil column is lethal, and couldn't resist portraying such. Buffy had to use her full quiver of feminine wile to retain her place at Savlian’s side. Like most men, he was outmatched when trying to argue with a woman who loves him.

MyCat- Thanks for catching up! Buffy has almost a learning disorder when it comes to fire, ice and shock. That's why she is envious of the Diva of Destruction Delphine Jend. Menien’s fate coming right up!

mALX- Aww, thank you for that warm encouragement! I tried to show some of the thinking and options that might occur as our duo stabbed in the dark with only theories to go on as far as what might happen when pulling a sigil stone from its perch.

Grits- Thanks! Like you, I wish enemy mages used more of the spells available to them, but that's one nice about creating our own fictions. I’m not so talented or bold as to have our protagonist ‘commanded’ by a mind control spell as you so brilliantly did once with Jerric - yikes! With the damn gate closed, I’m hoping that Savlian will have learned (from his elf) the benefits that a bit of planning and preparation can garner before charging into the city. I’m with you in giving the man high marks for declaring his love in a. . . memorable spot.



When the tumbling and noise finally stopped, blue eyes opened inches away from brown ones. Although no longer on our feet, Savlian and I were still clutched tightly together. Cool air filled our grateful lungs.

As we sat up, a cheer reached my big ears. Turning my head I could see it came from the Kvatch watch team on duty. Savlian produced the empty food bag that Weedum-Ja had given him. We slipped the sigil stone inside to still its pulsing glow and infernal buzz. I then placed it in his pack among the numerous spent waterskins. We then pulled each other to our feet.

A quick glance over the broken rocks and burned ground around us where the Oblivion Gate had stood confirmed that only two of us had returned from the Deadlands. “I’m sorry, Savlian.”

The slight slump that visited his broad shoulders told me another scar was forming – the kind you couldn’t see. After a slow exhalation he said, “Rest in peace, Menien, along with the other brave souls who travel with you. Forgive me, my friends, and thank you for your sacrifice.”

We turned at the sound of steel boots quickly approaching. “Welcome back, Captain! I’m glad to see Dame Buffy followed my direction and brought you safely home.” The two men gripped forearms in a warrior clasp.

“Thank’s for holding the line, Lucilius.”

“Sir, you two were in there for over a full day. I’ve just redirected our efforts to focus on anything that may come out of the exposed city gates.”

As several large drops of water pelted the top of my head, I lifted my face. “Rain!” I then pointed up and squealed, “Those are normal clouds and the Oblivion sky is gone!” The parched and blackened dust at our feet quickly turned to mud, hosting countless drops that each danced with the promise of new life.

I made Savlian stand still as I healed our minor burns and bruises, allowing the rain to carry away traces of blood and soot.

“I have draft battle plans to discuss whenever you’re ready,” said Lucilius.

“Excellent,” replied Savlian. “First, I need a quick reconnaissance inside the city so we can get an idea of what we’re dealing with in there.”

Lucilious winced. “As you know, you’re the only stealth trained soldier we’ve got.”

Savlian shook his head and smiled. “The elf at my side is the finest scout in the whole damn province.” He turned to me. Even as he squinted against the pouring rain, I could see the pride in his eyes. “Buffy, can you turn invisible long enough to safely scout the city’s courtyard near the gate and return without alerting any foes that may be inside?”

My heart swelled as I was struck by what Savlian and I had forged in fire together. He trusted my skills enough to briefly allow his butterfly out of the safety of his welcome grasp. Nevertheless, I looked down. “This rain dancing over my boots is like Superian peeing on a flat rock.” Recalling what a downpour could do to the dirt streets of Bravil, I added, “I don’t have a spell that can prevent telltale footprints of invisible elves in the mud. What’s the ground surface like in there?”

“Cobblestone,” replied Savlian.

“I’d need someone to open the gate just a crack and close it behind me.”

“Aye. And I’ll snatch you right back out of there as soon as you budge the door’s handle to leave.” He placed a hand on my shoulder. “We know the city’s layout of course. What I want is a feel for enemy disposition and numbers, along with obstacles. Note whether the chapel looks structurally sound but don’t risk entering it. Quickly in and quickly out. Will you do this for our city?”

I smiled coyly as I shook my head. “No.” A matching smile captured his own lips and eyes, leaving no doubt that he knew my next words: “But I’ll do it for you, Savlian Matius.” Anticipating his likely response as well as he knew mine, I then turned and stepped off the few paces to the city gate so he wouldn’t feel obliged to kiss me in front of his soldiers.

Lucilius turned back toward the barricade and barked some orders. A group of Kvatch’s defenders, including the small battlemage Arielle Jurard, began to move forward. “I kept two watch teams on duty while you were in the Deadlands, Captain – just in case.” Turning to me he added, “Dame Buffy, we’ll manage the city’s gate and catch anything that may follow you out.”

I nodded while slipping on my detect life rings. “Savlian, keep one hand on my shoulder until you can feel that I’ve passed into the city.” I then lifted a fist and disappeared under the resultant shroud of magicka. Lucilius inched open the gate just enough for me to sneak through. It quietly closed behind me as soon as Savlian’s hand had fallen away from my shoulder. I began to survey the conditions inside Kvatch.

Although fire had clearly ravaged the city, the only current evidence of flame emanated from several atronachs; each was surrounded by eerie wisps of steam. A handful of clannfears interrupted their birdlike stalking to claw curiously at the rain as it flowed over cobblestones. I could see a Dremora mage that appeared to be arguing with two warriors. Numerous scamps roamed the area. Studying their tall pointed ears, slight builds and almost stealthy movements, I couldn’t help but wonder if they were some sort of perverted Daedric manifestations of mer? Stop it, Buffy! Focus! Savlian is counting on you.

Most structures were made of stone and, except for having yielded their rooftops and doors to fire, appeared intact. My eyes were drawn to the chapel. Its spire was covered with soot, but reached undamaged and defiantly upward into the low clouds. Like the houses of worship in most cities, its entrance area projected forward somewhat from the main building and I could see two of its likely three wooden doors. Remarkably, they were unravaged by the flames that had swept Kvatch.

One of the scamps approached the main chapel door. Long slender fingers grasped the ornate handle. They were just as quickly snatched back, accompanied by a screech of pain. I smiled to realize that Akatosh had warded his doors against both fire and Daedra.

Before I could ponder the promising implications, I was stunned to see a pair of clannfears viciously turn on the scamp. The smaller Daedra stood no chance, as its upper limbs were trapped in unyielding jaws. The two larger beasts tugged and jerked in opposite directions, violently shaking their heads. After tearing both arms from their screaming victim, they finally clawed open the creature’s chest, silencing it. Killing the weak among them? Destroying the taint of Akatosh? Regardless, the terrifying reptiles began picking at the dead scamp – and eating it. I knew Daedra didn’t require nourishment. Did they simply enjoy the ritual of pulling apart their prey? I shuddered to see my clannfearish nightmares played out before me.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but action in its very presence.

Acadian’s silent admonishment returned me to task and served as a reminder to pay attention to the duration of my invisibility spell - if I hoped to avoid suffering the same fate as the scamp.

I completed a hasty count of the Daedra that I saw in and around the courtyard area. Refreshing my shroud of safety, I sprinted between raindrops across the cobblestones. From my new vantage point, the third door to the chapel revealed itself to be as inviolate as the other two.

Looking across the courtyard, I could see an imposing gatehouse and drawbridge protecting the bailey and castle beyond. My archer’s eye for range estimated the moat and walls to be just over five hundred feet away. I closed about a third of that distance until the battlements illuminated with pink glows. Counting the castle’s defenders required cycling through every finger on both invisible hands several times.

My task complete, I returned to where I had entered the city and removed my rings of detect life. A powerful chameleon spell of but a few seconds duration augmented my shroud of invisibility, allowing me to grasp the gate’s iron handle unseen.

I tugged until the gate budged a crack. It was quietly drawn open from the other side a few more inches. Savlian’s awaiting hand groped my hair and face, then fumbled across an invisible breast before latching firmly onto my upper arm. I was pulled to safety right before my hands and arms reappeared.

The heavy door was barely closed behind me when it burst alive with magic from the fingers of Arielle Jurard. She said, “Captain, unless our foes inside are masters of alteration or locksmithing, the gates are now warded until one of your mages opens them.”

“Thank you, Arielle,” said Savlian. He turned to Lucilius. “The Daedra do have powerful mages and we’re not sure if they’ll try to sortie from the city now that the Oblivion Gate is closed. Let’s be prepared for that until we hear Buffy’s report and can prepare our own assault.”

“Move your people back to the barricades, Calvaria,” ordered Lucilius.

The older-looking Imperial, whose blue surcoat displayed The Great Oak of Chorrol, led her soldiers and battlemage to join the other watch team providing cover. Lucilius followed on their heels.

Savlian escorted me to one side in order to clear the line of fire. We then headed more slowly for the defensive perimeter as well.

“I see the rain has slowed to a steady drizzle,” he offered. “Perhaps if the sun follows, green things may once again grow outside Kvatch instead of stone teeth and tongues of flame. I long for the return of bear and eagle to our mountain.” As we walked, he unshouldered his quiver and dumped the water that had almost filled it. “Do you need me to empty yours?”

“No, its lower bits have drain holes.” I then added with an innocent smile, “Just like me.”

I was treated to a beautifully welcome sputter, followed by a hearty laugh.

As we joined Lucilius behind the barricade, both men looked at me expectantly. Savlian said, “Buffy, may we have your report?”

“The chapel is intact,” I began. . . .

Awwww!!!... ...That's just so cool...I really love the way these two are finally letting it all out...As it were... ...

Loved - in a sense - the whole tour of ruined Kvatch and thought the fighting Daedra was well done...

Still having to fight the urge to do the MQ again... ...

As always, brilliantly done chapter, and as ever, I absolutely loved it!...

I'm sure I'm far too Gentlemannish and polite to snigger as much as I did about...



...

Well done m'friend...

Nice one...

*Applauds heartily!!*...

Buffy's reconnaissance was my fave part of this chapter - warding off her own nightmares shows how strong she's become inside. Awesome Chapter & Write !!!

B&S are back! But without Menien. Well, that was expected though. As much as it would have been nice to see him survive for a change, I think I prefer that he does not. It adds a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by many to reclaim Kvatch from the Daedra.

It is good to see that Savlian now trusts Buffy's abilities. (Am I the only one who sees his name and wants to say Salivan instead? Though with Buffy around no man can be blamed for salivating ).

I very much liked seeing the Clannfears tear apart the Scamp that touched the chapel door. Like Buffy, I too wonder exactly what motivated them. Is it just that they eat their wounded, or was it indeed the whiff of Akatoshian energy upon the Scamp that turned them lethal?

I also like how Buffy's mind wanders with her musings about the nature of the Scamps, and the Clannfear's motivations.

“No, its lower bits have drain holes.”I then added with an innocent smile, “Just like me.”

I knew he wasn’t going to make it back. I’m glad Buffy and Sav did, and appeared clutching each other.

Oh I can’t imagine what a delightful sight the rain must have been!

That’s different, the chapel is untouched.

I like Buffy’s method of getting through the closed door without revealing herself to the daedra.

And like everyone else, Buffy’s drain hole comment made me grin.

Hmmm...

More deviations from the standard game coming up, as the fallen spire normally blocks the area by the gate from that in front of the gatehouse. You get to clear those separately, and access the chapel before you head for the castle. But this lets Savlian and Buffy decide which takes priority, instead of having it pre-ordained by the geography.

And of course, not having to persuade the CPU to grind out the animations lets you have a bigger battle!

I made Savlian stand still as I healed our minor burns and bruises, allowing the rain to carry away traces of blood and soot.
This was a lovely way to spend a moment between the Deadlands and the next challenge.

I smiled coyly as I shook my head. “No.” A matching smile captured his own lips and eyes, leaving no doubt that he knew my next words: “But I’ll do it for you, Savlian Matius.” Anticipating his likely response as well as he knew mine, I then turned and stepped off the few paces to the city gate so he wouldn’t feel obliged to kiss me in front of his soldiers.
How fun to see them being such a couple! Now they really have some stories to share, or even better to keep just between themselves.

A handful of clannfears interrupted their birdlike stalking to claw curiously at the rain as it flowed over cobblestones.
Oh, what a neat observation! They’ve been under the Oblivion sky, and this is their first rain!

It sounds like Kvatch is in decent shape, fire damaged but with lots of stone structures left intact. That’s encouraging! The part with the scamp, the door, and the clannfears was horrifyingly fascinating. That was the perfect time to get some silent support from Acadian.

“Thank you, Arielle,” said Savlian. He turned to Lucilius. “The Daedra do have powerful mages and we’re not sure if they’ll try to sortie from the city now that the Oblivion Gate is closed. Let’s be prepared for that until we hear Buffy’s report and can prepare our own assault.”
Wow, here’s another thing I never considered in the headlong rush into the city. Buffy’s way is best!

Did I miss something, or how did Savlian know what she meant?

The whole segment within Oblivia was breathtaking! Yet again Acadian, I am highly impressed with your use of imagry as well as your use of portraying emotions; Oblivia must have been terrifying!

Now our hero is out of the frying pan and into the rescue of a city! Exciting stuff!

A couple of things that really impressed me with this chapter:

"...Will you do this for our city?”

I smiled coyly as I shook my head. “No.” A matching smile captured his own lips and eyes, leaving no doubt that he knew my next words: “But I’ll do it for you, Savlian Matius.”

Yet again Buffy's love for Savlian shows deeply here. Willing to traverse along into unknow danger for the man she loves? EPIC.

One of the scamps approached the main chapel door. Long slender fingers grasped the ornate handle. They were just as quickly snatched back, accompanied by a screech of pain. I smiled to realize that Akatosh had warded his doors against both fire and Daedra.

I don't know why but I LOVED this. Just something so simple and effective to explain such a simple, lets say plot hole for use of a better phrase! haha

Amazing chapter and I am SUPER eager to read more!

In Episode 157, Savlian and Buffy found themselves back in Kvatch, surrounded by broken remnants of the Oblivion Gate. After a sad word to acknowledge that Menien did not survive, Savlian asked his elven scout to conduct a clandestine reconnaissance inside the now accessible city. Buffy invisibly did so, then returned unscathed to deliver her report.

McBadgere- Thanks for enjoying our repeat of the ‘I’ll do it for you, Savlian Matius’ line. That really does sum up Buffy at Kvatch. Thanks also for the nice words on her stealthy tour of the city.

mALX- Thank you! That recurring dream she has of being eaten by clannfears got pretty close to home for her. I love your phrase ‘warding off her own nightmares’.

SubRosa- I appreciate you holding out hope for Menien despite his poor chances; you are right that we were trying to emphasize some of the sacrifices already made and yet to come. Savlian has come a long way; I guess he just had to see Buffy in action a few times before being comfortable enough to send her ahead solo. My intent there was to show his growth in understanding about not holding a butterfly too tightly. Thanks for the kind words regarding the inter-Daedra reactions we saw inside Kvatch. It swells Buffy’s self-confidence to hear you say that there are those (besides clannfears) who would salivate over her. I’m so glad you mentioned Buffy’s mind wandering – it seems to be quite a part of her nature.

KC- Thanks for the condolences on Menien. I can imagine how neat that rain must have seemed – especially given how long our siege has been. Although fire ravaged Kvatch, heavy use of stone in the city seems to have limited the damage some in our story. Buffy’s ‘100% chameleon x 6 seconds’ spell to preserve her invisibility while grabbing the gate’s handle to exit really helped here. This was the second time she has used that spell – the first was to support giving Countess Leyawiin an anonymous dose of Stark Reality.

ghastley- Given how long Kvatch has been under siege in our story, I figured the more structurally sound the chapel remained, the more believable the possibility of survivors might be. Although our Kvatch will have a familiar feel, there will be a number of changes from the game that I think fit with our story.

Grits- Thanks for noting so many of the things I hoped you would! Buffy’s omnipresent nurturing/healing, the growing trust and sense of couple between B&S, how strange the rain must have seemed to Daedra, the horrifying clannfear display and its impact on Buffy, the overall decent condition of the city. As you can see, Savlian seems to have learned a bit of caution from his elf; like you, I was glad he didn’t yell ‘For Kvatch!’ and charge (exhausted and unprepared) right into the city.

MyCat- Thank you for reading! Buffy’s comment about drain holes was simply her attempt to lighten the mood and display an intimate comfort between her and Savlian via a simple anatomy joke. She tells Acadian the same thing when opting for a halter top and loin cloth instead of rain cloak if caught in a warm downpour. She wasn’t actually referring to her habit of sometimes wetting her greaves if that is what you thought; indeed, Savlian hasn’t yet experienced that aspect of his little Tinklebell. Sorry for any confusion.

Tábrasa- So wonderful to have you back, and what a joy to see you continuing Tara Willow! Thank you for letting Buffy, Savlian and I bring you with us through the Deadlands and safely back to Kvatch. Buffy witnessed Akatosh banish a Daedra from his Priory at Gottlesfont way back in Episode 48; that has long fueled her hope that there might be a chance for anyone who made it to Kvatch’s chapel.



As soon as I finished relaying the details of my brief reconnaissance inside Kvatch, Savlian and Lucilius began discussing courses of action.

“Once we capture and hold the main courtyard,” said Lucilius, “we can control the only way in or out of the city while sending small teams north toward the Arena to sweep and clear any pockets of resistance. We’ll also be able to access the chapel. If the altar still works, that could ease the burden on our healers.”

“I like it,” replied Savlian. “By holding our main force in front of the chapel, it positions us well against the castle. If the Daedra lower the drawbridge and swarm into the assault, we’ll be ready for them.”

The light rain had slowed, and now finally stopped. I asked, “Do you really think those defending the castle will give up the safety of the battlements and come out?”

“I don’t know, Buffy,” replied Savlian. “If they stay holed up, it should make clearing the rest of the city easier and let us retain the initiative. Then we’ll try harassing and enticing them to sortie a counterattack. I’d much rather fight them on open ground than send our force into the gauntlet of assaulting my own damn gatehouse.”

“I agree,” said Lucilius. “Victory won’t come without a price though, and this will be the biggest battle many of our soldiers have ever seen. Sir, may I recommend holding off until tomorrow to give them time to come to terms with it and make any arrangements they may feel necessary? The delay will also allow us to refine our plans.”

Savlian nodded. “Yes, put our newer hands on the barricade and give those who have seen more of this long siege a brief respite.”

“I’m pretty new, here,” I said. “Would you like me to fill in on the perimeter to give others a break before the battle?”

Lucilius answered, “You and the Captain were inside the Deadlands for over a day, Milady. You both need to recover. I will augment with our. . . fighting monks and other fresh arrivals.” As he finished speaking, the gray clouds parted rather dramatically. A cheer rose up from the city’s weary defenders as golden sunshine bathed Kvatch with the promise of hope.

“A well-needed morale boost,” remarked Savlian as we all watched the beautiful sight. He seemed to be studying the city gate and angle of the sun. “Plan our assault tomorrow for two hours after dawn.”

“By Azura! By Azura! By Azura!”

All three of us wheeled toward the voice behind us. The young Bosmeri face and twisted steeple of yellow hair belonged to Fanador. I had met him at the Arena, pining away after the Grand Champion left to seek knighthood in Leyawiin. Towering behind him were two massive warriors clad in dull golden plate armor from head to foot. Fanador continued as the two giants removed their full-face helms, “Announcing Sirs Agronak and Mazoga, the mightiest knights in all of Cyrodiil!”

“How goes the battle, Dame Buffy?” said Mazoga with sparkling dark eyes. Her upper lip then curled into an orcish smile.

Despite a grin that probably went from one big ear to the other, I managed to make a somewhat dignified round of introductions. I noted that Agronak’s heavy belt hosted both arming sword and dagger. A leather guige ran diagonally across his chest, securing a large shield to his back. It was the same way that Savlian and many of his soldiers carried their shields when not in use. Mazoga, however, was outfitted differently. The worn handle of a claymore protruded above one shoulder. A flat ring of bladed steel, the diameter of a dinner plate, was fastened to the deep purple sash that encircled her hips. I recognized the throwing weapon from my days at the Arena; it was called a chakram. I wasn’t sure how much good carrying only one instead of a stack of them would . . . .

“Captain,” Agronak’s voice cut off my rumination, “Sir Mazoga and I pledge our service to Dame Buffy’s quest to help free your city.”

“I’m honored to have your strong sword arms, noble knights,” replied Savlian. “Both Kvatch and the elven knight at my side are fortunate to have such friends. Do you need to rest after your journey?”

“We’re fresh for a fight,” said Mazoga.

“Aye,” added Agronak, “put us to work, that we may ease the burden on your defenders. All we ask is a piece of ground where Fanador may set up the tentage carried by our donkey. We left the animal down at your makeshift stable.”

It was Lucilius who replied, “Milord, Milady, your young squire will find a suitable spot in the lower encampment between the eating area and bath tents.”

After receiving a nod from Agronak, Fanador began to retrace his steps down the hill.

Lucilius continued speaking to the pair of knights, “Let me brief both of you on our operation here, the threat and our plans.”

We all moved closer to the defensive line. Savlian wandered among those on duty, drifting into his charismatic banter, while Agronak listened intently to Lucilius. Although Mazoga stood quietly, the grins we flashed each other made it clear we couldn’t wait to talk together.

Not soon enough, Agronak announced, “Thank you for the fine briefing, Lucilius. Let this pair of humble knights take our positions with the hope that you may deem our service worthy enough to give some of your defenders a well-needed rest.”

Mazoga said, “I’ll join you soon, my mate. Let me speak briefly with Dame Buffy.” As soon as she and I had stepped beyond earshot of the line, she said, “Gods’ ghoulies it’s good to see you my pal!”

“You too, ‘Zoga!” I chirped, barely restraining the urge to wiggle like a puppy. “I know I told you not to come to Kvatch, but I must confess joy at the sight of you and Sir Agronak.” I pointed to the chakram at her hip, allowing my eyes to carry the question.

“It’s magic, Buff! Agronak and I found it in some underground Alien ruin full of traps and blue crystals called Welcome Stones. Watch this.” Mazoga plucked the weapon from her hip. With a flick of her wrist, it flew toward a long-dead tree. After severing a branch as thick as a mer’s arm, the disc returned to be captured in her gauntleted hand.

“That’s amazing! No wonder you only need one of them.”

“Yup,” she declared proudly. “I take care of the long range stuff and Agronak handles recharging our enchanted swords. That dagger he carries can grab the magic right out of dying foes and pop it into those little gray rocks you showed me how to use.”

“Sounds like you make a good team,” I said.

“Looks like you got a fella too.” Bushy dark eyebrows bounced suggestively as her thick gauntleted finger stabbed over my shoulder. I turned around as she loudly added, “I guess I’d better join Sir Agronak. Besides, you two not only look tired, but soaking wet as well.”

“I guess we are,” replied the approaching Savlian with a grin of his own. “We do indeed have bellies to fill, equipment to dry and repairs to make before tomorrow.”

As the mighty orc clanked off to join her mate, I took Savlian’s arm and we began the trek down to the encampment. I told him how Mazoga and I met and became knights, then started chattering about the wonderful future Savlian and I would build together after freeing our city.

After some welcome time in our respective bath tents, I was happy to slip into clean buckskins and a blouse. Savlian donned his spare armor and a spotless surcoat. Our next stop was the smith’s tent. Batul was impressed – not in a good way – by what the Deadlands had done to Savlian’s gear. Nevertheless, she promised to at least get his shield and blade back to him before sunset.

The camp was abuzz with talk about the next day’s assault to retake the city. Nowhere was this more evident than in the kitchen area as Savlian and I gratefully ate our fill of Weedum-Ja’s cooking.

A meeting under the same tent followed, during which Savlian and Lucilius shared their vision and issued planning orders for the attack. A long list of questions from the watch team leaders and my guildmagister were systematically addressed. Savlian touched on support considerations affecting nearly every aspect of the camp, from cook to smith.

As we left the meeting, Savlian steered me toward the stable. “I know an elf who has not even had time to greet her mare since our return from the Deadlands.”

In the midst of all this preparation for war, I was stunned at his perceptive thoughtfulness. For a rare moment I was speechless – well, almost. “I love you.”

As we approached the stable, I could see the new arrival that Fanador used to carry supplies for his knights. The small gray pack animal was ungelded and quite clearly interested in making mules. After receiving a sharp kick from one of the white mares used by the Anvil guard contingent, the amorous donkey approached Superian. My own mare’s response included flattened ears and a show of teeth. The poor fellow seemed well-acquainted with rejection and, after a loud bray of mournful protest, headed for a drink at the trough to perhaps drown his ardor.

Superian’s manner changed abruptly as she noted our arrival. Nickering softly, she affectionately greeted us both. While Savlian patted her neck, my eyes were drawn to Bolden as the stable master carefully adjusted a harness between his flatbed wagon and Belle. Although the chestnut draft horse was shorter than the leggy Superian, she was massively muscled and stood on hooves that dwarfed those of my speedy mare. Noting the lack of cheer on Bolden’s face, I looked questioningly at Savlian.

“Belle and the wagon will be needed tomorrow to carry our wounded. . . and dead.” His hand moved from Superian and fell gently on my shoulder. “Our farmers – with their shovels – will be needed as well.”

This had me in hysterics!

Enter Aggie and Mazoga, and I see one huge battle ahead! Awesome write !!!

No, okay THIS is absolutely my fave chapter so far...Most definately... ...

Fanador!!...Oh absolutely fantastic!!...I laughed when I realised who he was...BRILLIANT!!...

Mazoga!!!...And not only that, but Mazoga with Chakrams!!..Possibly my fave weapon not to be in Skyrim...(But used extensively in that other game I've been playing, Kingdoms of Amalur.)...

And that bit with the donkey...Aww bless him...Made me laugh no end that...

Such brilliance and beauty...

Excellently done chapter...Sooo good...

Nice one... ...

*Applauds most heartily!!*

It was fun to be a fly on the wall during Salviating Matius' war council. Sound strategy was offered by all. Granted, there is no telling what the Daedra might still have up their sleeve to oppose our intrepid heroes however.

“By Azura! By Azura! By Azura!”
Oh good gods no, The Adoring Fan vs. Kvatch!

Thank goodness that Sirs Mazoga and Agronak were behind Fanador! How wonderful to see the Grey Prince here, escaped from his usual doom, and instead fighting to free Kvatch. And I see Mazoga, erm, I mean Sir Mazoga, has a new toy now. We might start calling her Xena soon, especially if she starts using that Amazon war cry. Even Fanador is now a useful fellow, working as the page of our two emerald knights.

Agronak and I found it in some underground Alien ruin full of traps and blue crystals called Welcome Stones.
Mazoga has not lost any of her charm, or her delightful way with words.

“Our farmers – with their shovels – will be needed as well.”
A grim reminder of battlefield reality. How many of these good friends we have come to know and love, will have their faces covered with dirt on the morrow?

I really like how you use the game's actual characters--I know it's a little thing, but it displays improvisation (sp?), because you use other people's creations, but you breathe new life into them with your own thoughts and plots.

Oh no, not that little twerp. At least he’s been put to use. Lol.

The two orcs sound more refined than I expected. Perhaps Mazoga has learned some speechcraft from Agronak.

Gods’ ghoulies it’s good to see you my pal!
That’s the Mazoga we know!

And we end on a sobering note. The battle to come and its aftermath.

"Savlian and I quickly made our way up the squishy surface of one ramp to the upper ledge. By the time we arrived, the scamp was a lifeless broken heap, covered with frost."

Serves them right. No Mehrune's Daedra are impervious to ice! Ice ice babay!

"Noting that the domed roof of the tower sloped down into dark recesses around the perimeter, I grabbed Savlian’s hand and tugged him into a position that would better maintain our stealth. We crouched to observe, waiting for an opportunity to exploit."

Nice. I pictured this in my mind, as if I was watching it. "Get down, dude." type thing. Haha. Loved it.

"I’m not about to abandon the elf I love inside a damn Oblivion Gate!”

Chills! Oooh!

“I’ll never let go of you, Savlian.”
He pulled me to him and, atop a sigil tower in the Deadlands, we kissed.
Lively romanc in the Deadlands. Beautiful.


157:

When the tumbling and noise finally stopped, blue eyes opened inches away from brown ones. Although no longer on our feet, Savlian and I were still clutched tightly together. Cool air filled our grateful lungs. As we sat up, a cheer reached my big ears.

I can imagine the relief! Literally, to hell and back! The part where the air filled their lungs was pretty awesome, I know for a fact that Dagon's realm is inhospitable and the air is smokey and hot. You know, like breathing through your nose in a hot sauna but greater times beyond. It stinks that Menien got left behind though.

A handful of clannfears interrupted their birdlike stalking to claw curiously at the rain as it flowed over cobblestones. I could see a Dremora mage that appeared to be arguing with two warriors. Numerous scamps roamed the area. Studying their tall pointed ears, slight builds and almost stealthy movements.

Oh the frustration. You return from behind the enemy lines only to once again find yourself into their midst. I find myself cheering for Buffy and Savlian. I never liked Dagon or his Daedra to begin with. So I will root for them.

By Azura, chapter 158!

“By Azura! By Azura! By Azura!” All three of us wheeled toward the voice behind us. The young Bosmeri face and twisted steeple of yellow hair belonged to Fanador.

Oh gawd. Seeing Azura three times in a single sentance makes me cringe. This was myreaction when I read this.

And sweet, Agronak is back. And he's not whining about his pops!

And Mazoga too. Give it up for Malacath's Pariah folks! I always thought they would make a good couple, Mazoga and Agronak. Makes me want to go play Oblivion again. Great chapters, I caught up. Edge of the seat feeling, especially the Oblivion parts. Didn't think I stopped reading the tale, did you?

The plan to liberate Kvatch was great to watch unfold. And of course this line:

I’d much rather fight them on open ground than send our force into the gauntlet of assaulting my own damn gatehouse.”

Made me smile for Savlian as well as think about the frustration that the Kvatch defenders have lived with for so long.


“A well-needed morale boost,” remarked Savlian as we all watched the beautiful sight. He seemed to be studying the city gate and angle of the sun. “Plan our assault tomorrow for two hours after dawn.”

Sunrise must also be an unfamiliar sight to the Daedra, I’m guessing that Savlian is working it into his tactics. I love how Buffy enjoys the sunshine, thinks about hope, and simply relays Savlian's words without interpreting them.


“By Azura! By Azura! By Azura!”

Oh, how fun! Fanador and the mighty orcish knights!! This day just keeps getting better. Mazoga and Agronak were wonderful together. I had such an image of Buffy inwardly dancing with impatience while the green giants were talking war with Lucilius. Wiggle like a puppy, lol.

How sweet that Savlian suggested visiting the stable before they retired for the night. Fanador’s amorous, obstreperous donkey is the perfect sidekick for him.


“Belle and the wagon will be needed tomorrow to carry our wounded. . . and dead.” His hand moved from Superian and fell gently on my shoulder. “Our farmers – with their shovels – will be needed as well.”

At this sobering thought I was reminded that Savlian is probably preparing his young elf for what the next day will bring. Buffy’s earlier hopeful chatter about a wonderful future after the battle made me wonder how surviving it would change her. This was the perfect touch at the end of a beautiful episode.

I don't know if anyone else is having this issue, but the possibilities of the Adoring Fan getting involved in the upcoming battle are just boggling my mind.

I can just see a short-sighted Flame Atronach thinking she's finally found a male of her own kind.

During Episode 158, Savlian and Lucilius digested the intelligence their elven scout had gathered from inside Kvatch and began refining battle plans. Savlian announced the assault would commence two hours after sunrise the following day. It was quite a surprise when Sirs Mazoga and Agronak arrived and offered their swords to Buffy and Savlian’s cause. After returning to the encampment with Savlian, Buffy noted how preparations for war seemed to pervade every aspect of life in Kvatch.

mALX- I thought about all the gear it would take to squire for a pair of heavy metal knights and wanted to give Fanador some help lugging it around. So glad you got a donkey kick out of it! Thank you!

McBadgere- Wow, high praise indeed, my friend. Thank you so much! From a master of creative names such as yourself, the endorsement of Fanador means a lot.

SubRosa- Thanks. Like you, I much prefer the path our Gray Prince is on – glory and the girl both! I grinned at your mention of Xena; although not a perfect match, I see much of her in the mighty Mazoga and, as you suspect, the connection was not coincidence. Although not quite Gabrielesque in nature, there is certainly an element of adoration between Buffy and her huge pal.

Zalphon- Thank you. The fun of using NPC’s in fic is their familiarity; the challenge is doing justice to them and wickering in believable changes.

KC- Thanks! I see Agronak as fairly refined; perhaps some training from his mother, combined with his strong desire to be a noble. Clearly, that refinement is influencing Mazoga. Both she and Buffy observe the convention of addressing each other somewhat formally in public – a measure of mutual respect for their titles. In their moments alone however, the pair of pals freely let loose with the ‘Zoga and Buff stuff.

Darkness Eternal- Thank you much for endorsing our attempt to weave romance into an Oblivion Gate! I also appreciate your pointing out how wonderful those first breaths of cool air after the gate closed must have felt. I’m so glad you like our Agronak and Mazoga; Buffy and I have become quite attached to them.

Grits- Thank you for noting Buffy’s approach to telling the story here. She knows very little of soldiering and organized assaults so she will largely be simply reporting her clueless observations. As ever, you certainly drew what I hoped you would from that episode, including what a couple the two orcs have become, Buffy’s excitement at their arrival, Savlian’s thoughtfulness to visit Superian and, of course the somber implications of Belle and her wagon.

ghastley- Oh you really had me in stitches there! A flame atronach sporting a yellow 'Fanadoo' and stalking the little Bosmer as a potential mate! Fanador will indeed serve in the upcoming battle, but in a supporting role as the squire that he has become.



It was late into what had been a busy afternoon before we dropped off the sigil stone with Sigrid for safekeeping and finally made it back to our tent. I racked Slayer and my quiver, faced Savlian and we both grinned. “We did it!” I squealed, launching myself at him. My arms flew around his neck as both legs circled his waist. I was planting kisses all over his face and neck as his arms wrapped fully around me.

“Captain?” The voice outside sounded quite boyish.

Savlian sighed, then lowered his frowning elf to the ground. “Enter.”

It was the smith’s apprentice who appeared in our tent. “Batul finished repairing your sword and shield. She told me to deliver them.” He placed the Legion blade next to Slayer then leaned Savlian’s now gleaming shield against the weapons rack, taking care to ensure the wolf’s head was upright.

“Thank you, Tiberius,” said Savlian. “Tell Batul there is no rush on my mail and to focus on the equipment of others.” He touched a hand to his chest. “This spare armor is perfectly good to wear into battle.”

After the young Imperial left, Savlian turned to me. “Buffy, tomorrow will bear little resemblance to the fighting that you and I have seen together. I must lead my small army into the teeth of a defended city and castle within. We both know that large-scale melee combat is no place for you.”

“Your responsibility is daunting,” I paused to choose my words carefully, “and I do not wish to add to that burden. All I require is that you allow me to fight for you. I will fill any such roll you ask, and do my best to survive and make you proud of me.”

“I’ll not countermand Lucilius then when he, no doubt, assigns you to a position among our archers and mages where your lethality can be safely brought to bear. No doubt, your talent for healing will be required as well. I regret that I cannot lead the assault and fully focus on protecting the elf I love at the same time. Once the city is free, I will take measures to ensure I never face this dilemma again.”

“I know your feelings for me Savlian; you show them in every action you take. I don’t want you to feel torn or guilty for one moment. The man I love not only has a small elf to deal with, but a whole army and city to worry about as well.” I reached up to caress his cheek. “When the sun rises, morn after the morrow, it will shine upon a free Kvatch. You and I both want as many of her defenders alive as possible to see it.”

“Thank you, my beautiful elven scout. Your words are like soothing magic to this troubled spirit.” He pressed my hand to his lips for a moment before continuing, “I will be unable to protect you with my shield tomorrow. Do not expect shadows to hide you. Invisibility will simply make you a more likely victim for the unintended blade or arrow of an ally.”

I smiled with feigned confidence. “I’m a small target.”

“I know that, Buffy. Your leather scale armor served you well in the Deadlands, but tomorrow favors steel over stealth. Do you have anything stouter?”

I pulled the magical bag of holding from my feather-enchanted pack. “I can stuff an amazing array of items in here, although I do try to limit things or I would never be able to find what I need.” My arm disappeared up to the shoulder and, after digging around, produced two sets of upper body armor. “I pulled this forest green elven mail off a small bandit near Leyawiin that Sir Mazoga nearly beheaded. This other black cuirass is called Night Shadow and I bought it from a vender in Bravil during this year’s Tournament of Archers.”

Savlian ran experienced eyes and hands over the two assemblages. “Both armors are exceptionally well-crafted, lightweight and have sturdy breastplates. They also boast substantial pauldrons, replete with haultguards to protect that precious neck of yours. This green set, however, provides protective hip skirting of mail and will serve you better tomorrow. Do you have any greaves with some metal to them?”

I smiled as the magic bag once again swallowed my arm. “Here. I bought and had these fitted in Leyawiin.”

He held up the light mail greaves that, except for their size, were similar to his own. “Perfect. We’ll check the fit and adjustment of everything carefully in the morning.”

I nodded my agreement then asked, “What else do we need to do so you are ready for tomorrow?”

“I want to speak with Lucilius again to review our battle plans.”

“Knowing how you two work together, I suspect he is thinking the same thing.” I placed both hands behind my back, looked up coyly and added, “Shall I summon him for you?”

Savlian lifted an eyebrow. “I know you’re a skilled mage, but surely you -“

“Kiss me,” I interrupted.

He did so.

“Captain?”

I sighed. “Come in, Lucilius.”

“Good evening, Milady,” said the soldier as he allowed the tent flap to close behind him. “Sir, I thought you might want to review and adjust plans for the assault, unit assignments and coordinating instructions.”

“Has Merandil completed his fire support plan so we can refine the initial attack formation?”

“Bad news on that count, sir. Destroying the Oblivion Gate failed to disable the Daedric warding atop the city walls as we hoped it would. We still can’t send high angle fire into the city. Merandil recommends standing off the formation a hundred paces. With our swordsmen kneeling at the ready, the archers behind them can deliver direct fire as soon as we open the city. When the Deadra hopefully charge out and our front ranks stand to engage, Merandil’s shooters can shift to high angle fire with a killing zone just outside the gate.”

“Make it so,” replied Savlian, “and run the barricades perpendicularly from the walls out to the front corners of our formation. I want an alley of death for the Deadra to run, but I damn well don’t want them flanking us.”

“We’ll do it, sir.”

“Corner units where our front flanks meet the ends of the barricades?” Savlian’s question was more of a statement.

Lucilius nodded. “They’re built around pairing magic with steel. The one on our left will consist of the Orsimer knights, Raccan, Sigrid and I. The right front corner will be protected by our pair of battlemages, Dreelius, Dame Buffy and you. Except for our one mystic archer, the mages can’t shift to high angle fire. From those corner positions, though, they won’t have to cease their flat trajectory attacks when our front ranks engage. The enemy won’t flank the steel on those corners either.” He glanced down at me before adding, “Between Sigrid and Dame Buffy, we’ll have a strong healing ability on both sides of the formation as well.”

“Well done, Lucilius,” said Savlian with a grim smile. “The arrangement also disperses you and I to positions where we can effectively command and control, yet remain unlikely to both be taken out at the same time. I think that provides everything I asked for. Now, eventually we’ll need to maneuver our. . .”

I plopped onto the chest in one corner of our tent as the conversation progressed from fire support to large scale tactics that I didn’t understand. Drawing a handful of hair over one shoulder, my fingers began absently braiding and unbraiding it. I was quite frightened – and distracted I’m sure - at the prospect of a big melee fight in the open with so many allies and foes.

“. . . some resistance to their fire attacks thanks to those rings provided by Dame Buffy. . .”

I went over my own spells and tactics, rejecting many of them as inappropriate for the venue I envisioned.

“. . . vulnerable while funneling each rank through the open. . .”

My mind struggled to imagine what could happen as I attempted to devise solutions to my own ineffectiveness in open battle. I couldn’t share my fears with Savlian – he had enough to worry about.

“. . . prepared to change our tactics after first blood is. . .”

I so wished I had Boderi Farano to help me sort out how I could possibly be of use in the scenario I foresaw. I kept envisioning Slayer piercing our own soldiers as they charged across its deadly line of fire.

“. . . wheel the formation in front of the chapel to face the castle. . .”

Without time and stealth to carefully set up my shots, how could I possibly . . .

“. . . do that for us, Buffy?”

“Forgive me, Savlian. I-I was distracted. What would you have me do?”

“Lucilius has pointed out that the Legion will eventually demand a report on how the Oblivion Gate was closed. Could you perhaps write out some notes on how we did so while the specifics are still fresh? That will free Lucilius and I to continue refining plans for tomorrow.”

“Of course.” I was actually grateful for the diversion as I set quill to parchment and detailed what we had learned inside the Deadlands of Mehrunes Dagon. Once my task was complete, I used restoration magic to absorb my words and restore them several times onto additional blank sheets of parchment. I thusly created several copies. I knew that most arcane clerks favored alteration magic for the task, but restoration came more naturally to me.

It was late when Lucilius finally left us.

*

I awoke in the cool of predawn.

A gentle hand pulled the hair from my face then lovingly trailed up and down the skin of my back. My fingers slowly traced the line of a deep scar that ran from one shoulder over the muscles of Savlian’s chest, then across the man squares on his stomach almost to the opposite hip. “When this day is over,” he said quietly, “I will have seen enough blood to know who and what is worth spilling it for. I want to wake up each day just like this morning, with the golden silk of your hair caressing my skin. There may be tasks ahead that we agree need to be done, but every day I will ask myself how to best provide for the needs of my elf.”

“I love you, Savlian. We will free your city today, then build a life here together.”

“Aye. It’s almost dawn.” He rose and pulled me to my feet. “Let’s get you into that armor and adjust the fit.”

That, was just too funny...Well done m'friend!!... ...

Loved the whole chapter...

The way Salvian's conversation drifted through Buffy's thoughts was brilliantly done...

And I loved muchly the restoration photocopier...Excellent idea!!... ...It's these cool little ideas for magic that make these worlds so brilliantly alive... ...

Nice one!!...As ever!...

*Applauds heartily*...

I love the way you wove through Buffy's distracted thoughts for her own battle plans between the ones that were being made around her.

This little detail was outstanding:



AWESOME WRITE !!!!!!!

Savlian sighed, then lowered his frowning elf to the ground. “Enter.”

I think if they want more time alone, they’ll have to leave camp…

I’m glad Buffy has some appropriate armor for the battle to come.

Oh that was perfect, Buffy summoning Lucilius!

That was a great scene of Buffy trying to decide what she should do while Sav plans the assault.

I like how it is our tent now, rather than Savlian's. It is a nice little example of how their relationship has grown by leaps and bounds since the Buffster's return to Kvatch.

Like the others I also loved how Buffy summoned Lucilius! Yes, some things just seem to be written in the stars for our couple, like never having a moment to get busy!

Obi-wan and Luke, erm I mean Savlian and Luke, erm Savlian and Lucilius have some solid tactics for their coming attack upon the city. Leaving poor Buffy with naught to do but worry about how she will do so far out of her normal comfort zone, in the middle of a pitched battle.

At least Luke and Obi gave her the task of writing out a report on the closure of the gate. That gave Buffy something to do, other then worry about the coming battle. Seeing her photocopy spell at the end was a delight. As you know, I love seeing everyday uses of magic, aside from just blasting things.

Now it is almost dawn. Preparations have been made. Next Friday, or the one after that, I expect we will be back in Kvatch.

How lovely that Buffy and Savlian got at least a tiny celebration of their victory in the Deadlands. That they were of one mind and mood here makes me think about how they must have been silently attuned to each other throughout the afternoon.

“I’ll not countermand Lucilius then when he, no doubt, assigns you to a position among our archers and mages where your lethality can be safely brought to bear. No doubt, your talent for healing will be required as well. I regret that I cannot lead the assault and fully focus on protecting the elf I love at the same time. Once the city is free, I will take measures to ensure I never face this dilemma again.”

Savlian says a lot in a few sentences here. I’m reminded of how capable and trusted Lucilius is, and that Buffy will be part of a unit in the battle, not hidden somewhere on her own. I worry for what she will have to face when she heals people, and how she will deal with the choices she will probably have to make as part of that responsibility. And at the end of his remarks, Savlian indicates that while Buffy has been chattering about their future together, Savlian has been planning how he will “make it so.” Wonderful!

Buffy’s “Summon Lucilius” spell was a welcome touch of humor after the sobering small target and armor discussion. I love the way scraps of conversation wove through her worried, wandering thoughts as she doubted and second-guessed herself. She spent so long preparing herself to close the Gate, and now she only has a few hours to learn how to be in a huge battle.

Having her take on the burden of writing their report was a great idea from Savlian. I guess he noticed the nervous hair-braiding. I love the copy spell because it’s clever and also because Buffy remarks that the same task can be done in more than one way. Really neat!

Waking together just before dawn was a beautiful way to end the chapter and look ahead to the next one. Of course I’ve never prepared for a war, but I know how it feels when there’s work to be done right before everything changes. This chapter had that feeling throughout. Possibly my favorite chapter yet.

Now look what you're about to make me do!

If your "Summon Lucilius" were a real spell, it would be unique in requiring two people to cast it. So now I'm wondering if a mod could add two-person spells to the game, and how they'd work, and what they'd do.

Especially when cast by two unusual people like Angeline and Diablita.

WOWOWOW!

I've only just joined and I am already Wowed by this story! I think I may need to read the summary just so I can keep up, but what i've read so far is amazing!

Buffy is so funny, and I love the idea that she shares her body with a spirit who speaks with her and guides her. GENIUS!

I'm very over excited at the moment, and i will calm down eventually. Just excited to be a part of something so big!

Right, enough babbling, off to the summary I go, but I just thought i'd say 'hi' and that you've got another fan

Preparations for war continued during Episode 159 as Savlian and Buffy discussed how the following day’s battle to free Kvatch would not allow them to fight as a team the way they had cleared Fort Agarctova and closed the Oblivion Gate. Buffy tried to comfort Savlian’s concerns, even consenting to wear sturdier armor. Lucilius visited, and the two leaders of Kvatch discussed more of their plans. Buffy’s swirling fears of melee combat in the open and limited knowledge of larger scale warfare caused her to miss many of the details.

McBadgere- Thanks muchly for your endorsement of the way we tried to weave snippets from the Savlian/Lucilius conversation into Buffy’s distracted ruminations. Clearly we were trying to show her concerns while making an effort to slip a few details of the coming assault to readers.

mALX- As I hinted to McB, I was nervous about weaving so many distractions into Buffy’s thoughts and I’m so glad that it seemed to work. Thanks also for noting that tiny bit about Tiberius placing Savlian’s shield to honor the wolf it bears.

KC- Thank you. Our poor ‘newlyweds’ are hard pressed to get moments alone! I can’t believe Buffy intentionally ‘summoned’ Lucilius.

SubRosa- I’m so glad you noted Buffy’s intentional word selection as she referred to ‘our’ tent. Heh, the couple perhaps regrets closing Oblivia – it seems one of the few places they could be alone! Those notes on ‘how to close an Oblivion Gate’ may come in handy to someone in the future. . . but for now, I’m so glad you appreciated Buffy’s photocopying. Much of our thinking on everyday uses of magic is inspired by your own skill in this area.

Grits- You certainly pulled all I had hoped you would from our humble words. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you sharing your insights on what we are trying to portray.

ghastley- Leave it to you to consider the possibilities of a ‘Summon Lucilius’ spell! I shudder to think who (or what) would result from an Angeline and Diablita summoning session! Buffy has a penpal on the other forum (Lothran); the two of them jointly created a spell that summons a carrier dove to transport letters between them.

Andrea- Thank you so much for joining us! I see you are aware of our ‘Executive Summary’ thread that provides a 2000 word summary to catch up if you are short on time. I so hope you will stay with us! I'm delighted to see that you are off to a magnificent start with Jessika’s Journal and look forward to us supporting each other.

All- Savlian’s Army of Kvatch will require the next nine episodes to free the city. Although we’ll see some recognizable elements from the game, expect a larger scale and numerous twists, turns and changes from the battle we’ve all fought atop Kvatch Mountain. Movie and speech buffs may recognize that some of Savlian’s words, tone and actions in today’s episode were influenced by leaders (fictitious and real) as diverse as King Arthur, Maximus Decimus Meridius and Ronald Reagan.



By the time Savlian was satisfied with the fit of my forest elven armor and we slipped out of our tent, nearly half the sun’s orb greeted us from a bright eastern horizon. He led me to the stable for a quick visit with Superian, then to the spacious open-sided tent that covered the encampment’s feeding area.

Despite my growling stomach, we didn’t eat right away; rather, Savlian joined Lucilius and several of the team leaders as they moved among the large number of soldiers and handful of mages who were enjoying a meal. Lucilius brandished a flagon in each hand and was topping off diners’ cups with apple-berry juice. Unsure what was expected of me, I found a brimming clay pitcher and joined Lucilius in filling the mugs of soldiers as they ate.

As ever, I was impressed by Savlian’s magical ability to inspire his soldiers via cheerful banter. In this case, he not only verified they were being well-fed, but confidently joked about the victory dinner that Weedum-Ja was planning.

I nearly bumped into Fanador as he was hurriedly stuffing all manner of food into a large bag. As the cheerful Bosmer slung his burden over one shoulder, he confirmed that it was for delivery to his knights, along with the fighting monks of Talos and others currently on duty up near the city gate.

As soldiers finished eating, they would gather their weaponry from arming tables just beyond the rolled up sides of the yellow and white tent, then head up the hill. Once it became clear that there remained plenty of food, Savlian and I accepted bowls of porridge and joined his subordinate leaders as they ate.

“Savlian,” I said quietly as I placed one hand on his forearm, “it comes quite naturally to me to see that others are fed first, but it is certainly not the behavior I’ve seen from leaders of wolf packs or goblin tribes at meal time; they eat first.”

“Indeed, my elf,” Savlian replied patiently, “many armies operate that way. These soldiers, however, are the muscle and bone that will deliver victory today. I will see to their needs before my own.” He then gave me a crooked smile. “Besides, what happens to that leader of a wolf pack or goblin tribe when they are wounded or begin to show their years?”

“They’re killed and replaced by subordinates eager to seize their position.” After a moment, I added, “I like your style of leadership better.” Finally, even Lucilius and the other leaders headed up the hill. “Shall we go with them?”

“Nay. My arrival at the city gate heralds the assault.” Savlian poured us each another cup of juice. “Lucilius has numerous details to yet set in place. He needs some time up on the hill to do his job before I can do mine. Soon enough, Buffy.”

A group of the encampment’s farmers approached the tent, placing their picks and shovels on the arming tables. Two of the five humans were women, but all had callused hands and skin that had been creased and darkened by the sun. After filling bowls and plates, they joined us. The oldest looking man said, “She be a good enough day for killin’ Daedra I s’pose, Cap’n?”

“Aye,” replied Savlian. “I intend that we have a better day than our foes. This spring, you’ll be sowing your crops where they belong – into the rich fields surrounding our city walls.”

“Akatosh watch over ye and yer lads.” After a sharp elbow to his ribs from one of the leather-skinned women, the grizzled farmer glanced at me and added, “And yer fightin’ lasses o’course.”

“Thank you, friends. My second in command asked for your help today, did he not?”

“That he did,” the same farmer replied. “When the fightin’s done, we’ll plant yer fallen on the western edge of the upper plateau. There, they can rest and watch the sun set o’er the Abecean each eve. ‘Tis the least we can do. Lucilius told us ta wait till the assault started afore showin’ up though. When d’ye figure that’ll be?”

Savlian drained his cup and set it firmly on the table. He then rose to his feet. “My scout and I are starting the trek up there now.” As we gathered our weaponry he glanced eastward, then turned to the farmers and added, “Give the sun enough time to rise another fist above the horizon, then start up the hill. I’ll try to keep your work to a minimum today.”

*

As Savlian and I crested the upper plateau, I was struck by the unusual sight of Kvatch’s gray walls bathed in bright golden light. The midwinter sun followed a somewhat southern path and I realized now that Savlian had chosen the time of assault to place the morning glare into the eyes of our foes.

Flanking the city’s gate and about thirty paces apart, two parallel rows of sharpened wood barricades butted against the stone walls. These barriers extended perpendicularly from the city for what I estimated to be a hundred paces. Their ends met the front corners of a large formation.

Among the rainbow of surcoats, I recognized Ilend, Bjorn and Calvaria as three of the team leaders evenly positioned in the front rank of sword and shield users. Right behind them was a second rank of similarly equipped soldiers that included the robed ‘fighting monks,’ Baurus and Arturo.

Across the same width of frontage behind the sword ranks was a row of archers. I could readily identify their Altmeri leader, Merandil, as he stood nearly a head taller than any of his bow users.

Standing near the right front corner of the formation were Arielle and Roliand in their gleaming plate armor, along with Dreelius in his blue robe. At the left front corner, Sirs Mazoga and Agronak dwarfed even the armored Raccan and well-filled velvet gown of Sigrid. I understood now what Lucilius had meant about blending steel, magic and healing into these two corner anti-flanking units.

Lucilius stood in front of the entire formation, gauntleted thumbs hooked confidently into his sword belt.

Behind the rear rank and hitched to a flatbed wagon was the chestnut mare, Belle. A massive hoof, heavily feathered in white occasionally pawed the ground. More often than necessary, she tossed her head to clear the recalcitrant blond forelock from her eyes. I could tell she was steady enough, but nervous.

My guild sister, Pelena, hovered between the left wheels as if guarding the line of bags attached to the outside edge of the wagon. I had no doubt they were filled with potions of healing. Along the flatbed’s other side were attached numerous baskets – each bristling with feathered arrow tails. Stable master Bolden, squire Fanador and smith’s apprentice Tiberius quietly talked nearby. I now understood that Belle’s duty was not only to carry the dead and wounded, but to provide resupply as well.

Savlian and I moved up along the right side of the formation until he positioned me between Dreelius and the battlemages at the forward corner. When he stepped out in front of the ranks, every voice grew still.

As Savlian approached Lucilius, each of the two men crashed a gauntleted fist into the black wolves that draped the steel on their chests. A cheer filled the cool morning air as my heart raced with both fear and pride. A confidently smiling Savlian raised one hand and his warriors again went silent. After some words between the two leaders, Lucilius stepped off to the front corner of the left flank.

All eyes and ears were on the Captain of Kvatch. “I know that Lucilius has briefed you to the point that by now all you want to do is kill something.” Chuckles of confirmation rippled through the ranks. “Be assured that you’ll soon have the chance. Today we change the destiny of this city.” Savlian’s face was like cold steel, but his dark eyes blazed fire and determination. “There are those who approach the end of their lives wondering if they ever made a difference. I promise each of you that before the sun sets this day, you will never need ponder that question. Thanks to you,” his Legion blade sang from its scabbard and defiantly spiked the sky, “Kvatch will be free!” I startled at the animalistic roar that erupted from the formation, then heard the sound of every weapon being readied.

Savlian then joined me and unslung his shield. As he fitted it to his left forearm, he gave a nod to Arielle Jurard and Roliand Hanus. Both battlemages left my side and made their way right up to the city gate, where they turned and waited.

“Prepare to deliver fire.” Savlian’s words calmly cleaved the air.

“You heard the man,” trilled the high elven voice of Merandil. “Nock your arrows.” As his archers did so, the sword ranks ahead of them took to one knee. A nudge from the robed elbow of Dreelius helped quiet my butterflies and prompted me to set the tail of an arrow to Slayer’s silk. I noted sparks dancing over the glowing scales of the Argonian’s hand.

Savlian then commanded, “Open the city.”

Arielle bathed the heavy wooden doors in magic to remove the warding she had placed the morning prior. As soon as she and Roliand pulled them wide open, both battlemages jumped clear and ran toward the right barricade.

The words, “Open fire!” from Merandil barely preceded the first volley that flew into the city. Arrows were joined by lightning bolts from the staves of Raccan and Sigrid, posted at the formation’s left front corner. The moment Arielle and Roliand completed their sprint back my corner unit, Dreelius and I opened fire as well.

The tactic seemed to work, as several volleys of arrows and spells fired into the open gates elicited Daedric shrieks and screeches. I even heard Azura’s Star sing for me at one point.

Soon enough though, the Daedra bested their confusion and mounted a charge. More arrows and spells tore into them as they were channeled by the barricades toward our kneeling swordsmen. As Daedra continued to pour from the city, I focused my arrows on those attempting to cast fireballs. I was greatly relieved when I killed a Dremora mage almost as soon as it stepped into view.

“High angle fire!” roared Savlian. The arrows paused briefly. Our sword ranks rose to their feet to meet the oncoming numbers of wounded Daedra who were slowed as they clambered over the bodies of their own dead. Savlian and the two battlemages stepped in front of Dreelius and I to meet any enemies that might try to slip around the end of the barricade and flank us. A glance to the other side of the formation revealed that the steel of both orcs, Raccan and Lucilius blocked any view of Sigrid. The sound of multiple bows loosing skyward barely preceded the first blood drawn by sword.

Good chapter. Akatosh has indeed watched over the lads..and "Y'er lasses" too. I was pleased to see the Dremora Mage fall to Buffy's arrows. Nice shot

I swear, you incorporate a good tale within the conflict. Everytime I play Oblivion or set foot near Kvatch, I will remember Buffy and Savlian. It's good that you decided to spend time writing about the conflict.

What a dramatic beginning to the Battle of Kvatch! I always hated these two battles and the one for Bruma - always lost good men in Kvatch, and just plain hated melee fighting, lol. (my sword always hit the wrong side ... "Hey, I'm on YOUR side!")

I especially loved the feel of everything being in slow motion throughout. Like every moment and movement was being recorded by the gods - really Awesome the way you did that!!!







Awesome Write !!

OH.MY.WOW!

This chapter is truley amazing (definatly what great season finale's are made of ). What starts as what I can only describe as the last supper, or rather breakfast, and carefully delves into perfectly written action is incredible! I actually felt like I was there, watching as the Daedra charged at our heroes! I can't wait for more!

As a wise man once said "You take the 10,000 on the left..."

Fantastic stuff...You know by now I like the militaristic stuff, and as always, I'm absolutely in awe of your skill of not only providing absolutely brilliant evocations of strategy and the fighting, but throughout there's the "Human" element of it all...Sheer brilliance...

Once more, m'friend, I bow to thee...

With my steel do I pledge to thee, my Captain...To the end!...And all that... ...

Aw hell...This was just amazing...

*Bows further*...

Nice one...

*Applauds heartily*...

That’s good that Buffy got a visit with her Mare before the battle starts.

Excellent battle plan, I was at first wondering why Sav chose the time he did.

Ah that was pretty satisfying, opening the gates and shooting everything inside. Awesome chapter!

This does two things at once. It highlights the level of planning Savlian's capable of, and illustrates Buffy's understanding of him.

This is beginning to resemble Agincourt. Was that a conscious inspiration?

Nine episodes for the Battle of Kvatch? One per Divine perhaps? I am glad you are giving it such a sharp focus. Your entire fan fic has been building to this point, it deserves to have this kind of attention lavished upon it.

I liked the big meal before the battle. I was watching Battle 360 recently, which chronicles the U.S.S. Enterprise's role throughout the Pacific War. On the morning of the Battle of Midway, one of the Enterprise pilots commented that the knew something big was going to happen because they got served steak and eggs for breakfast.

I agree with Buffy. I like Savlian's style of leadership better then the other examples.

I am guessing the five farmers are going to be hauling away wounded and dead? Just the dead I see. I loved the thought given in where to bury them. They will have a good view from there at least!

Arrows, lightning bolts, and swords! Here we go. Savlian's plan is working so far. I expect that the Daedra will get a very bloody nose attacking the Kvatch barricades. That will use up some of their strength, and make things a little easier when they finally do enter the city. I forsee the problems beginning there, especially the deeper they go into the ruins...

I loved the bustle of the dining tent slowly quieting as the soldiers and then leaders ate and headed up the hill. With the farmers Savlian showed again that he is a leader to all of Kvatch. His speech before the battle was just perfect.

Buffy’s descriptions were clear enough that even I could picture the scene (I am battle-challenged ). The vivid little details that caught her attention also hinted at the butterflies in her stomach. Then when the fighting began, she switched to that crisp control that she displays when she is in deadly action. Beautiful!

The sound of multiple bows loosing skyward barely preceded the first blood drawn by sword.

Wow. What a line to end the chapter!!

In Episode 160, Savlian’s army breached the city gates and unleashed a devastating barrage of arrows and spells into the city from a standoff distance. The resulting Daedric charge out the gates and through Savlian’s barricaded ‘alley of death’ was just reaching the front lines as his swordsmen rose from one knee and the archers behind them shifted to high angle fire.

Darkness Eternal- Thank you. Freeing Kvatch is certainly the centerpiece of Book 1. I hope you enjoy seeing the battle from Buffy’s perspective, given her unfamiliarity with larger scale tactics and such.

mALX- Thanks! I have to chuckle over the image of Sigrid in her blue gown blasting away with her staff of lightning.

Andrea- Given your own skill, already so apparent in Jessika’s adventure, I am touched by your kind words. Thank you.

McBadgere- Thanks! I hope you enjoy the battle, as told through the eyes of a semi-clueless wood elf!

KC- Superian is an ever present consideration in both our game and story. I am continually struck by how much Buffy’s ‘My Little Pony’ has captured her heart. My hope, in the brief visit you mentioned, was to show that Savlian has become quite attuned to the needs of his elf. Thank you.

ghastley- Savlian and Lucilius are pretty good at what they do. Buffy’s only hope to follow things is grounded in her understanding of what makes Savlian tick. Thank you. Savlian’s comments to his army were inspired by numerous outside influences from film and history, but the battle itself is free of conscious historical influence. I simply tried to place myself in the boots of Savlian and Lucilius.

SubRosa- Thanks for understanding that there will be much to cover inside the walls of Kvatch. Once capturing the courtyard and clearing resistance in the city, Savlian will have a chapel to investigate and a well-defended castle to figure out how to retake – replete with some surprises. And yes, the going will get tougher. I’m glad you enjoyed our pre-battle breakfast. Although feeding the troops before their leaders is standard practice in modern western armies, it is historically a fairly recent development. Indeed, it is still not the way of several military forces in various parts of the world that I served alongside.

Grits- Thanks so much for your endorsement of Savlian’s pre-battle speech. There was ever so much to describe atop Kvatch mountain and I’m relieved to hear that our militarily-challenged elf was able to paint the picture clearly enough.



High angle fire from our archers continued to rain devastation upon foes that were casting spells from near the city’s gate instead of charging our formation. Apparently, the same Daedric warding that kept us from shooting over the walls also prevented return fire from atop them. The scamps and atronachs sending fireballs our way therefore, were on the ground like us and seemed to have no concern for the backs of their fellow Daedra. Indeed, the clannfears, scamps and occasional Dremora warrior engaged with our front ranks were hammered between friendly fire from behind and disciplined steel ahead.

From our corner position, Dreelius and I were able to safely continue direct fire into the city. Lightning bolts from the other side of our formation told me that Sigrid was able to do the same. I caught a glimpse of Raccan – the Redguard had switched from staff to claymore.

My heart broke to see several of our own soldiers fall to the Daedra, but our front lines and the spiked barriers flanking Savlian’s ‘alley of death’ held firm. Several clannfears had tried to shake apart one section of the barricading near the open gates, but they had been killed by the rain of feathered death from our archers.

I had never before seen a Daedra retreat but a few wounded ones near the gate did exactly that, withdrawing back into the city. As the last of those that were either engaged with our front ranks or remained in our high angle fire killing zone fell, Savlian commanded, “Cease fire. Prepare to advance.” The relentless shower of arrows ahead of us stopped. Only the occasional fireball now slowly billowed our way from hidden defenders within the city.

Roliand Hanus and Arielle Jurard immediately moved to a position just forward of the formation and several paces apart. Each time a fireball approached, one of the battlemages would cast the golden glow of a spell to resist it, then clamber sideways over the carnage in front of us to intercept the flame.

As briefed, Dreelius and I moved to the rear rank among Merandil’s archers. We were joined by Sigrid from the other corner unit just as I heard Savlian order, “Advance.”

We moved slowly, having to climb over dozens of bodies – most of them Daedra. The pace was set by Savlian and Lucilius at each end of the front rank. Fanador and Tiberius scampered along behind the archers, refilling our quivers.

The formation paused briefly as each rank sequentially funneled through the open gates. While reforming inside the city, we began to take more fireballs than Arielle and Roliand could intercept from scamps perched atop any raised position they could find. Fortunately, our foes’ elevation advantage in this case made them easy targets for Merandil’s superior number of archers to pick off over the heads of our sword wielders.

Savlian dispatched small teams deeper into the city to locate and destroy isolated pockets of resistance. He kept the bulk of us together and steadily advancing.

As the right end of the front rank drew abreast Akatosh’s chapel, I heard a series of commands. I just tried to stay between those on each side of me as we all wheeled to the left and stopped.

Savlian repositioned until he was centered several paces in front of the formation, keeping his sword and shield at the ready. With his back to us, he studied the intimidating gatehouse, moat, raised drawbridge and crenellated walls that loomed several hundred feet to our front. I recalled enough of what he and Lucilius had discussed to realize he was waiting – even hoping – for the Daedra to launch a counterattack from the castle. I heard him bark over one shoulder, “Healers and resupply!”

Lucilius quickly strode toward the rear of our formation to supervise. Sigrid, Roliand and I moved through the ranks to heal those in need. Raccan began restoring charges for those few of us with enchanted weapons or staves.

As I finished healing Bjorn’s burned hand, the team leader declared, “By Shor’s balls, I’ve never cared much for Dunmer, but right now I’d trade my frost resistance for their ability to resist these flame shooters. At least the magic rings Lucilius gave us help some.”

Before I could reply, I felt a tugging at my back. A glance over one shoulder revealed Tiberius sliding more arrows into my quiver. Fanador had already emptied his arrow bag among the archers and was running back toward Belle’s wagon to refill it. As my eyes followed him for a moment, I could see Bolden and some of the farmers pulling our dead from among the Daedra and loading them onto the wagon. Pelena moved among the wounded near our original position outside the city, administering potions to those who had not been able to advance with us.

The small teams that Savlian had dispatched to finish clearing scattered resistance were now returning. Among them, two soldiers carried their bleeding leader.

I quickly found myself kneeling over the severely wounded Ilend Vonius. His once handsome face was badly burned and, as he coughed, blood pumped from a gaping wound to his throat – the unmistakable mark of a clannfear. As soon as my glowing hands touched him, I realized the mortal nature of his injuries. I would not lose this man without a fight though. Pouring white magic into his body and biting my lip to steel myself, I began to mend the terrible damage and absorb his pain

Soon, I was whimpering and tears were streaming down both cheeks. My magicka was exhausted and I realized it was the sacrifice of my own life force that was sustaining the futile healing effort. Yet even as he went still in my arms, I couldn’t bring myself to stop.

Acadian was urgently warning me that my own life was in jeopardy by the time strong hands pulled me from Ilend. It was the battlemage, Roliand. As he restrained me firmly by the shoulders, I felt his own soothing magic replenishing the health I had surrendered. “Let him go, Buffy. Some wounds we cannot heal.” He then drew a hand over Ilend’s face to close the dead soldier’s eyes and moved on to another of the wounded.

I dug into my pack and numbly quaffed a potion. As it began to speed replenishment of my magicka, I felt sick, inadequate and guilty. I knew Ilend would haunt my dreams. My efforts to heal him had failed, just like they had with City Swimmer so long ago in Bravil. I was at peace with my own mortality, but how could I ever have been prepared to have those around me cut down, then die in my arms? Is this what it felt like to be in Savlian’s boots? How could he live with it? How could any soldier?

I saw Bolden approaching with one of the farmers. As they gathered up poor Ilend, part of me wanted to hate the stable master, farmers and Belle’s wagon of death. But a bigger part of me hated Daedra more. Much more.

“Scout!” Savlian’s commanding voice cut through my confusion and self-pity.

I made my way to the front of the formation. As I approached, he said, “Are you injured?”

“No, my love,” I quietly replied.

Lucilius then joined us and reported the number of our dead.

Savlian winced. “And the wounded?”

“Three times that many, Captain, but Sigrid assures me she can get most of them back to duty within the hour - all of them if she can get access to the healing power of the chapel’s altar.”

Savlian nodded, but his narrowed eyes were focused on the gatehouse as he growled, “Damn Daedra. Haven’t we pissed you off enough to sortie out of my castle?” He then turned to me. “Buffy, I need an updated enemy disposition on and behind the castle’s front walls.”

I slipped on my rings, augmented their detect life range with a spell and reported, “There’s nearly a score of Daedra in the gatehouse, and at least that many more spaced along the battlements. It becomes difficult to separate and count the glows moving beyond the walls inside the bailey.” Removing the rings, I looked up at him. “Altogether, I estimate their total number perhaps rivals our own.”

“Thank you, my elven scout.” Savlian then turned to Lucilius. “I need you to hold the line here, in case they grow a pair and decide to counterattack. In fact, I want you to probe them with feints and harassing fire.”

“Make the Daedra show their hand, Captain?”

“Aye, the Daedric warding atop the city walls that prevented us from lofting arrows over them also seems to have precluded defensive fires from being rained down on us as we breached the gate. Find out if that warding applies to the gatehouse and flanking battlements. That’ll have a big impact on how we retake the castle.”

“Are you taking a detail into the chapel then?” In response to Savlian’s nod, Lucilius added, “The monk Arturo is among our dead, but Brother Baurus is uninjured.”

“I’ll take him, Sigrid and Buffy with me then,” said Savlian, “but first I need to address the formation.”

Lucilius turned his head and barked, “Listen up!”

“We have struck a mighty blow,” began Savlian, “but bigger challenges await. Our remaining foes have chosen to defend the castle. We’ll hold this position for now, hoping they decide to sortie forth and give us an open field battle. Tend to your wounds and equipment. Be prepared to assault the castle. In the meantime, we’ll check the chapel. If any of Kvatch’s citizens survived this long siege, it would be under the protection of Akatosh. I also want to ensure the healing altar works to help with our wounded and the additional casualties we’re likely to face.” Savlian then turned to Lucilius and said quietly, “Send a runner for me if the Daedra counterattack.”

As Savlian and I stepped off, I heard Lucilius call out for the two knights and both battlemages. As we passed the orcs, each had their helmet tucked under an arm. I could see several dents in Agronak’s shield. Mazoga’s bushy eyebrows had been largely singed away. Given how well both knights moved, I imagined most of the blood on their armor belonged to our foes.

After gathering Sigrid, we found Baurus standing alone with a long face. His dark eyes trailed after Belle. The draft mare was slowly pulling her first wagonload toward what I understood would be Kvatch’s newest graveyard. I noted that the Blade’s sword belt now hosted two katanas.

Savlian put a hand on the Redguard’s shoulder. “On behalf of a grateful Kvatch, my sympathies on the death of Arturo. Let us enter the chapel and see if our efforts thus far have been for naught.”

Excellent...

Not without cost are the battles of heroes... ...

Or something... ...

Aaamywho...Most excellent battle...Loving the mages stuff, and the whole, steel against the evil thing...Love it!!...

Buffy's trying to heal Ilend was so very heartbreaking...So sad...Brilliantly done...

And the small details like Fanador's resupply runs, and the others taking away the dead added so much to the story...Love it!!...Again!!...

So much to love in these chapters...Most excellent...

Nice one!!...

Applauds heartily!!...

WOOW!

What an amazing chapter!

Tense, thrilling, scary, action packed... just wow! I loved how you showed what different members of the army did during the battle, like Arielle for example. Great discription there!

I quickly found myself kneeling over the severely wounded Ilend Vonius. His once handsome face was badly burned and, as he coughed, blood pumped from a gaping wound to his throat – the unmistakable mark of a clannfear.

This was so well written and described. It was such a perfect statement that could bring a tear to anyones eye. I know it did mine :'(

Can't wait for the next chapter!!

the same Daedric warding that kept us from shooting over the walls also prevented return fire from atop them.
This was an excellent observation, as it occurred to be the last time out that their disposition would have been highly vulnerable to missiles from the battlements.

It was also heartwarming to see a disciplined march into the city, rather than the chaotic jumble we see in both the game and movies. Savlian has his army fighting in top form. His plan/hope to bait the Daedra from the castle was likewise brilliant. Much better to fight them in the open, then from behind those high walls.

I also see Buffy has come to the rescue of Ilend Vonius once more. Oh Noes! She could not save him. I felt for poor Buffy, in spite of all of her efforts, all that she has learned, she still found him slipping away from her. This too was a good writing decision, for it shows to us that she is not omnipotent. Likewise it puts a familiar name and face with the dead.

Coincidence, or did he notice and do what a good commander does?

I'm a little surprised that Savlian chooses to let Lucilius provoke the Daedra while the party enters the chapel, but at least he's considered the possibility, and included it in his instructions.

Looking forward to how they approach the chapel door, since Buffy's seen what it did to the scamp earlier.

Judging by the title, as they move into the city they must not have the success they had outside.

Sav at the front! I’m surprised Buffy isn’t a nervous wreck!

A battle like this is no place for Buffy. Pouring her own life into a dead man! I’m glad Roliand could do what Acadian could not. I’m actually kind of angry with her…

…And Sav’s task is just what she needed. Great chapter Acadian!

Your battle scenes kick major "boat"< rolleyes:. But seriously, well-written and truly action packed. I'll add the ones which I found were pretty awesome! And yes, I am enjoying them. And your welcome

Indeed, the clannfears, scamps and occasional Dremora warrior engaged with our front ranks were hammered between friendly fire from behind and disciplined steel ahead.

It's like those war-movies where forces clash and lock horns! As most would say, great imagery. I always try to picture it unfolding in my mind as scenes from a movie!

"I had never before seen a Daedra retreat but a few wounded ones near the gate did exactly that, withdrawing back into the city. As the last of those that were either engaged with our front ranks or remained in our high angle fire killing zone fell, Savlian commanded, “Cease fire. Prepare to advance.”

I always love when the enemy runs off and retreats. This part was truly intense because it shows that even the Daedra, the ones under Mehrune's Dagon, are vulnerable!



This right here was good, very very good. Also shows the vulnerability on the mortal side. And Buffy's pain and anguish at the fallen comrade was touching and very well-written. You capture the feel of battle and war like it truly is--merciless.

“By Shor’s balls".
Need I say more?

The whole advance was vivid and gripping, I could picture it as if I was standing there. I love that Roliand and Arielle with their spells and enchantments were living shields against the fireballs. The details that Buffy provided kept me right there with her, climbing over bodies and mostly looking up.

As the right end of the front rank drew abreast Akatosh’s chapel, I heard a series of commands. I just tried to stay between those on each side of me as we all wheeled to the left and stopped.

This really made me smile. Buffy’s version of moving in formation. I also enjoyed Bjorn’s Nordic remarks during the break for healing.

Buffy’s fight to save Ilend was just heartbreaking, and it was everything that I’ve feared for her. Her reaction to Bolden and Belle’s wagon felt painfully true. Of course Savlian knew exactly what to do (and what not to say) to snap her back into the moment. He must have been anticipating her reaction, knowing her the way he does.

With Ilend and Arturo among the dead, it was good to get a glimpse of Sigrid, Baurus, the battlemages, and the orcish knights. I’m looking forward very much to seeing inside the chapel!

During Episode 161, Savlian’s army was able to clear most of the city and establish a strong position in front of the chapel. He then paused, not only to see if the Daedra would counterattack, but to allow healing and resupply as well. Leaving Lucilius in charge to probe the castle’s defenses, Savlian assembled a small team to enter the chapel.

McBadgere- Wow! Thank you most kindly for those nice words. I’m so glad it all seems to be working.

Andrea- I so appreciate your endorsement of the overall episode and especially of Buffy’s futile efforts to heal Ilend.

SubRosa- Thanks. Fortunately, that ‘Daedric warding’ atop the city walls worked both ways. As we’ll learn in this next episode, no such warding applies to the walls of the castle itself. My hope is that what was a fairly smooth and organized assault to retake the city will contrast with a more troublesome campaign to breech and capture the castle. Thanks for supporting the loss of significant friends – it always peeved me in the original Star Trek series that whenever ‘Crewman Green’ showed up, we knew he was a sacrificial dead man walking.

ghastley- Thank you. I was hoping that Savlian’s choice to personally investigate the chapel displayed three things: The importance to the Empire of what may be inside, his well-deserved confidence in Lucilius, and that delegation continues to be something that Savlian struggles with. To the chapel then, hoping that Akatosh’s warding on the door does indeed only affect Daedra!

KC- Thank you. Buffy indeed displayed bad judgment by futilely continuing to heal Ilend - even to the point of endangering herself. Given her nurturing nature however, it just never occurred to her to abort the attempt. His death, and the admonitions of Acadian and Roliand, will hopefully give her the experience to manage her healing gift more wisely in the future. As Kud-Ei oft tells her, "Good judgment comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgment." I suspect this was an important learning moment for Buffy.

Darkness Eternal- Although I consider Book 1 to be a love story above all, I so appreciate your kind words regarding Buffy’s descriptions of the combat. Thank you also for appreciating her passionate, if misguided, healing efforts. Heh, the ‘Shor’s balls’ comment was to keep a bit of focus on the minor character of Bjorn and remind us that even though Lucilius got credit, it was Buffy who provided that bag of invaluable fire resist rings for Savlian’s army.

Grits- Thank you! Buffy is clearly a ‘semi-clueless wood elf’ in this military venue and I tried to bear that in mind during her descriptions. I so hope you enjoy the next two episodes that will reveal much inside the chapel.



Savlian, Baurus, Sigrid and I approached the chapel’s main entrance. I reviewed aloud the fate of a scamp I had seen try the door during my reconnaissance the day prior. In response to Sigrid’s look of concern, I added, “Akatosh’s warding will not harm us though.”

Savlian boldly placed a hand on the iron handle. “Trust the words of my elf, guildmagister. We should not barge in however; if there are survivors inside they’ve had a great deal of time to prepare defenses. The pommel of his sword pounded against the door three times. “It’s Savlian Matius!”

“Captain?” The reply through stout wood was both faint and feminine. After several moments of what sounded like furniture being moved clear, the heavy door creaked open.

“Thank Akatosh you’re here! We never gave up hope.” The Redguard’s voice was gentle yet exuded confidence as she ushered us in. After a round of introductions, I learned it belonged to Kvatch’s High Priestess of Akatosh, Oleta. She was flanked by two soldiers, each wearing a surcoat adorned by the city’s wolf. One was another Redguard called Tierra, with a short sword at one hip and bow with quiver on her back. The other was an Imperial named Berich Inian, equipped with a Legion arming sword and Kvatch shield.

“How’d you manage to survive so long?” asked Savlian.

Oleta smiled. “Daily prayer at the altar of Akatosh. The Dragon God of Time also provided for us in other ways. He not only prevented Daedra from infesting this sanctuary, but allowed the undercroft’s freshwater spring to flow uninterrupted. When our food ran out, one of the pantry cabinets began refilling each evening.” Her age-lined face, framed by graying hair, clouded. “But what of the rest of our city? How many who didn’t make it to the chapel survived?”

“Only a few dozen,” replied Savlian. “What are your numbers here?”

It was the youthful soldier, Tierra, who unrolled a scroll and handed it to Savlian. “Just ten of us remain, sir.”

My Imperial’s eyes quickly ran down the list. He glanced up and gave a brief nod to Baurus before returning his attention to the parchment. “Odin Valus will be overjoyed that his wife, Lenka, yet lives. I’m pleased to see that Badali Sendal survived; her experience as the court’s chief steward will be invaluable for administering the city after we free it. Why is Marissa Selone’s name lined through?”

“Guilbert lost both her and their baby during childbirth within weeks of the invasion,” reported Tierra.

“What happened?” asked Sigrid. “I remember how excited Marissa and Guilbert were about the pending birth of their first.”

The Priestess replied, “The baby was large, and a frank breech presentation that we could not turn. As you recall, Marissa was a woman of slender hips. The harder the child fought, the tighter the cord of life likely drew around his neck. Even our altar of restoration was unable resolve the predicament; I’m afraid Akatosh is much better at mending wounds or curing diseases than assisting with childbirth. When the boy finally gave up, so did his exhausted mother.” Oleta paused to assess the faces around her. “Well, enough of this midwife talk that I can see only Sigrid and I understand. In simple terms, one cannot pass a pumpkin through a -“

“I’m sure you did what you could,” interrupted Savlian. “Where are the chapel’s survivors now?”

“In the undercroft,” she replied. “Martin’s leading midday prayer.”

“Tierra,” said Savlian, “go and bring Martin to me – now.”

“Yes sir.” The Redguard wheeled and her steel boots quickly clipped their way downstairs.

Savlian turned to Oleta. “I have a pressing matter to discuss with Martin.”

“I’m anxious to help in any way I can,” she tilted her head, “but what business involving one of my priests could possibly concern you?”

Savlian placed a hand on her shoulder. “Forgive me, High Priestess, but I must ask that you indulge my needs for secrecy and urgency. Brave soldiers await my return and we have yet to capture the castle.”

Oleta looked perplexed. “I have always trusted you, Savlian Matius. Akatosh works in mysterious ways and Martin’s path has oft been one of contradictions. I’ll respect your judgment and not interfere with your duties.”

“Thank you, my friend. Sigrid is now my army’s chief healer. Will you assist her in tending our wounded?”

“Of course,” replied Oleta. “Come, Sigrid. As you’ve heard, Akatosh’s altar has limitations, but let me show you how to call upon its power to mend the wounds of others.”

“Berich,” said Savlian as he turned to the soldier, “you’ll find my second in command, Lucilius Marcus, with our forces poised outside. Report our status, give him this list of survivors, then help carry our more severely wounded inside to the altar of healing. I intend to use the chapel as a hospital during and after our assault on the castle, and I want you in charge here for now.”

As Berich left, Tierra returned with the man that I presumed to be Martin. He had a full head of brown hair, gray eyes that matched his robe and the fair skin of a Colovian Imperial. He appeared older than both Savlian and I – at least in his thirties. Although rather handsome, he hardly looked like an Emperor to me.

After introducing Martin to Baurus and I, Savlian turned to Tierra, “I’ll need Oleta and Martin to stay here. Take the rest of the survivors down to the safety of our encampment near the Gold Road.”

“But, Captain, I want to fight!” protested the Redguard archer.

“Damn it, I’m not giving you the day off, soldier. Once you’ve completed that task, get your butt back up to the city and report to Lucilius Marcus with the formation outside. We’ll have need of your bow and blade.”

“Yes sir!” Thumping her fist against the wolf on her chest, she grinned then scooted off to gather the survivors.

“Savlian,” said Martin, “do you need me among your healers? It’s the least I can do.”

“Yes, I’d like you and Oleta to tend any wounded brought to the chapel. First though, we need to speak of a matter that’s fit for but few ears.” I could clearly sense Savlian’s impatience to return to his forces. His clipped manner and commanding tone did not invite argument.

Martin looked mystified, but nodded and softly said, “Follow me.”

Savlian, Baurus and I did so as Martin ushered us into an empty room and closed the door. “What could possibly concern me that warrants pulling you from your army?”

“Baurus is a Blade of the Empire,” said Savlian. “He’ll explain.”

As the Redguard detailed our suspicions, Martin’s face cycled through numerous expressions, finally settling into what looked like disbelief.

“I know I was adopted,” he said slowly. “Father would not speak of it as I grew up, but Mother confided that a monk had presented me to them as an infant. Unable to have children of their own, they accepted me as a blessing from Akatosh. One fall, several years after losing Mother to fever, bandits attacked the farm to steal our gold proceeds from a particularly fine harvest. Father was killed. I escaped, abandoning the farm – and my faith. I’m not proud of it, but my interests turned to the magic of darker forces. Eventually, I learned the dangerous folly of that path and sought to make amends by serving Akatosh.” He looked directly at the Blade and shrugged. “I am but a simple priest.”

“Baurus,” I said, “you’ll recall that I was one of the last to speak with Jauffre before assassins claimed him. He told me the infant was delivered to a childless couple in Kvatch and that the boy eventually became a Priest of Akatosh.”

“Although consistent, that’s hardly conclusive.” The Blade scratched his head and looked uncertain. “Arturo was supposed to know the right questions to ask.”

Martin’s eyes traveled to each of us in turn, as if seeking answers. “I know not if I am who you seek. How could a dirt farmer turned priest . . . ?“

The door swung open, and filling its space stood an armor-plated giant with her helm tucked under one arm. I could also see the greenish-gray face of Agronak looming over Mazoga’s shoulder. “Captain,” she said, “Lucilius sent us to tell you the Daedra show no interest in counterattacking and there’s no warding atop the gatehouse walls to stop us from shooting each other. Also, Sigrid has healed and returned the last of your wounded to duty.”

“Thank you, noble knights,” replied Savlian. “I must ask that you leave us -“

“You!” interrupted Martin as he stared at Mazoga with gray eyes that had assumed almost saucer-like proportions. “I’ve seen you. . . let me see your face.”