Well that was a shocker. Waiting to hear what was reason behind the treason. Surely it has to be more than some dinner party gone wrong.

What a twist! I didn't expect that Countess Caro would be executed, and by her own husband at that. I'm curious what's behind it all.

I'm glad I read this story "late", else I'd be too curious over the week. We're in for a treat tomorrow.

"Getting her magic severed by a Daedric spellcaster quite inflicted a déjà vu terror in Buffy’s heart. She vividly recalls that is exactly what led to her inability to prevent the mortal damage Savlian took during their final battle back at Kvatch."

Well that certainly stirred up some heavy emotions. That must be a terrible feeling indeed!

Buffy's has been away for quite awhile. Time does flow differently in Oblivion.

It was appropriately Buffy to decide to stay in the Mages Guildhall rather than the castle chambers. Much more fitting for her, and I'm sure she feels more comfortable in familiar settings and company, given her great history with the Mages Guild.

I like how Buffy realizes that though nature will take its course and things will return to normal, the otherworldly stain of Oblivion will last as a terrible reminder of the Crisis.

Buffy's honor and humbleness is not unnoticed here, too. She did right to share the substantial amount of gold with the hall. I chuckled at her comment about the beastfolk possibly praising the fate of Alessia Caro, which came as a shocker. But considering her very strong feelings regarding race, I don't blame them either.

I'm excited for Buffy, even in something as simple as a bath. This is the first thing to do coming back from an Oblivion realm. Raven can testify

“Thank Zenithar!” she exclaimed.

Neat! You don’t often hear people invoking Zenithar, but of course that’s whose chapel stands over Leyawiin. Nice.

Along with Buffy and I’m sure every other reader, I am curious about Alessia Caro’s execution!

Ooo, Kalthar’s lair quarters got a makeover. I’m looking forward to seeing the renovations. I think a Nord mage would install a good bath tub!

Previously- Buffy was greeted by Leyawiin’s guard force as she bounced back to Nirn with sigil stone in hand. She reported finding the corpse of Leyawiin’s forester inside the Deadlands. Captain Draconis agreed to arrange a meeting with Count Caro in the morning. The Captain then informed Buffy that Count Caro had recently had his Countess executed for treason and promised to provide more details when she escorted Buffy to the castle in the morning. Buffy then went to the mages guild to clean up and spend the night.

*

All- I figured Countess Alessia’s execution for treason would be a surprise since, of course, it quite departs from what happens in game. Unfortunately, Buffy will dally in the mages guildhall (as she often does) for one more episode before Captain Draconis can fill her in on what happened. The implications of Alessia’s execution will emotionally challenge Buffy’s dealings with Count Caro and, later, with Count Terentius in Bravil.

SubRosa- Gosh, it seems so long ago that Kalthar met his end at Buffy’s hand! We figured that invoking Zenitor is better than Skeletor.

Rider- I’m glad you asked about the reaction of Alessia’s mother to the news of her daughter’s execution - the answer is in the episode after today’s.

ghastley- In today’s episode, Buffy will tell you more about the guild’s bathing pool.

macole- I hope the reason for Alessia’s execution will ring true and reasonable as it gets revealed in a couple episodes.

Lopov- An unexpected twist indeed. I’m not a big fan of cliffhangers but it just worked out that way here. I must apologize further for not revealing the reason for Alessia's execution until next week’s episode. Hopefully, today’s episode will prove worthy in its own right.

DE- You are right about Buffy and the Mages Guild. Though she does not feel bound to it, she does identify more closely with them than any other organization. Buffy had the extra gold deposited in her personal account with the guild – not donated to them. We will see her generosity with it though very much later in the book when we learn that her extra gold goes to Kvatch to support its rebuilding.

Grits- I agree that, since Leyawiin hosts the Chapel of Zenithar, it would be nice to reflect that in some of the local interactions. I think you’ll be pleased with how we transformed the guild’s basement to include a welcoming bathing area.




“S’drassa,” I asked, “may I use some of your equipment?”

“Of course,” replied the alchemist without looking up from a gently bubbling alembic, “so long as you clean up after yourself. This one must continue to tend his brewing. After that Oblivion Gate, the guild’s stock of healing potions is alarmingly low.”

“I’m not surprised. I know Captain Draconis’ soldiers certainly appreciate such help from the guild.” I dug ingredients out of my magic satchel and began grinding then mixing. Before long, my concoction was ready and I poured the result into a vial.

S’drassa finally looked up from his own work and asked, “What have we made today, Buffy? A multi-effect potion? Or perhaps a deadly poison for your bow?”

“Oh, nothing so exotic,” I replied. “I’m embarrassed to say that I somehow left my hair conditioner back at the University and I quite favor a recipe that Ardaline and I developed years ago.”

“Ah yes, the young alchemist with the Bravil chapter,” commented S’drassa. “Though Khajiiti fur requires little more than a good diet and the occasional tongue bathing to remain sleek, this one is always interested in learning more about the mixtures used his furless colleagues to care for their manes. Would you share your recipe?”

“Of course,” I replied as I cleaned up the equipment I had just used. “It contains just a touch of ectoplasm, along with some rosemary oil and aloe vera; those items provide for the actual conditioning. I then add some glow dust for shine. Lastly, when making a batch for my own use, a pinch of finely ground bergamot for a nice citrus scent.”

“An interesting combination, and one that makes sense. This one thanks you for sharing it and hopes to see you at dinner later.”

“I hope so as well but,” I added with a sheepish grin, “as you can certainly see and likely smell, a bath to wash away the Deadlands must be my next stop. In fact I’m heading downstairs to the bathing pool straightaway. Thanks for letting me use your alchemy tools, S’drassa.”

I followed the soft sounds of gurgling water as I made my way to the bottom of a wooden staircase. The guild’s basement was comfortably warm and lit by an inviting combination of wall-mounted fire braziers and Ayleid glow stones. Adorning the stone walls were beautiful tapestries and paintings of southern Cyrodiil’s weeping trees, bright deserts of Elsweyr, and the brooding swamps of Black Marsh. I continued across an eclectic collection of exotic scatter rugs from all over Tamriel that covered most of the stone tiles until I stood by the guild’s bathing pool.

The water's surface was flush with the floor and there was a knee-high ledge all the way around its square perimeter. It was large enough to comfortably accommodate Superian – or more realistically half a dozen mages. A brief study of the stone bath revealed it was quite similar to the one in Bravil’s guildhall. Natural flow of the Niben ensured that old water was quickly and continuously purged and replaced by fresh. Heat stones to maintain a high temperature were incorporated into the hidden passage that carried incoming water.

I wasted little time stowing my bow and quiver, then stripping out of my buckskins. Retrieving vials of soap, shampoo and the new batch of conditioner from my satchel, I arranged them on the edge of the pool. I then slid into the deliciously warm water. After washing my hair and body, I ducked underwater to rinse. Perching on the underwater sitting ledge, I leaned back against the warm stone and relaxed, luxuriating almost weightlessly in the feeling of Aetherius on Nirn.

“Greetings, Acadian. How does the evening find you and your young elf?”

The voice and salutation it carried could have only come from one mer. I opened my eyes to see Leyawiin’s guildmagister drop her gown and slide into the water. She sat comfortably at the other side of the pool. I simply smiled as Acadian’s voice quietly filled the air around us. “We are well, Dagail, and it has been too long.”

The mer loosened and lowered long gray hair to flow around her shoulders. “I am pleased that you have developed the ability to speak in your current form, old paladin. Buffy, tell me what brings the two of you who are one to Leyawiin?”

Dagail had recognized the duality that was Acadian and I from the moment I met her while pursuing recommendations to enter the University. Later, she had imparted the magic that helped Acadian augment his telepathic communication with spoken word. I replied, “It’s good to see you again, Guildmagister. Boderi Farano has sent me here on behalf of the Arch Mage to solicit assistance from Count Leyawiin relating to the Oblivion Crisis.”

“Crises come and go,” she replied, “but I sense Dame Boderi has given you a personal quest as well?”

The use of Boderi’s title did not escape me. “She has asked me to consider joining her as a Knight Arcana.”

“And you are hoping one of the Nine deigns to sponsor you as a paladin,” stated Dagail.

“I greatly value any advice you have, Guildmagister, as I am a very confused elf. I mean, which Divine should I petition? I was raised in Mara’s city, but Acadian was a champion of Kyne. Sirs Mazoga and Agronak are Knights of the White Stallion like me but serve a Priest of Akatosh. The Blades associate with Talos, and Boderi – the only paladin besides Acadian that I know - was chosen by Julianos. To make matters worse, none of the Divines even talk to me! Even Azura talks to me, and-“

“Let me see your hand,” interrupted Dagail. I moved close enough for the older Bosmer to examine my palm. She studied it for a few moments before calmly declaring, “There is no confusion among the Nine, child. You are on the correct path. When the time is right, your destination will become clear.” Dagail released my hand, leaned her head back against the stone and closed her eyes. “I grow weary now. Let me rest.”

“Forgive me, Magister,” I said softly. “I’m not very good when it comes to patience. Or trusting in things I cannot see, hear or feel. I appreciate your wisdom and encouragement.”

I climbed out of the warm pool and summoned a towel. After drying off and combing conditioner through my hair, I donned a russet felt dress with matching slippers. The pile of buckskins on the floor needed both cleaning and subsequent treating to retain their supple softness, but my growling stomach insisted those chores could wait until after dinner. I headed for the guild’s dining room.

I've always liked this noise, but I bet it's a lot louder and even painful to listen to from their perspective.

I am in shock like the others. Countess Caro has been executed. Goodness. I mean, she always was a rather sordid sort of character. In a way, although you do not practice dead-is-dead, in a way you do. Not with Buffy herself, and not really with Caro (she is part of the story) but I notice over the years there have been various NPCs who have not been resurrected. DiD applies to NPCs too. I know you have used the console to bring certain people back (such as stablehands) but I have come across some old posts in which you also did not use Resurrect 1.

She's making hair conditioner. In all seriousness, if we're considering Elder Scrolls to be based upon Medieval fantasy, the use of various oils has been documented as hair conditioners ever since ancient Egypt. Surely Buffy is going for something which adds luster and strength, here. It's not so much like typical modern conditioners packed full of synthetic detergents.

Aw, she's wearing the russet outfit after bathing. Does she still change clothes frequently? Does she still make herself invisible so she can change clothes in public?

I still love Buffy's ethereal hair products. Much better than putting quicklime in your hair like the Celts used to do!

It is nice to see Dagail as herself, now that she has her amulet, or her father's amulet I believe.

It sounds like Buffy is not a doctor, so she does not have any patience...

Dagail seems to be quite assured that things are going as they ought to concerning Buffy's future. So that is a good sign. I suppose Buffy and the rest of us will have to just wait and see what shakes out.

Alchemy goes a long way in perilous times like these, where potions are very essential in the fight against the Daedra. And of course in cosmetics! Those ingredients make for an interesting conditioner indeed. She sure takes care of herself! I can imagine the relief of washing away the stains of the Deadlands!

I enjoyed the details of bath; its so interesting how it works. I've often wondered how folks in a magical world such as the Elder Scrolls bathe. Thankfully ESO showed us different things. You provided much depth even in the day-to-day things.

Great words of wisdom as Dagail confirms that Buffy is on the right path. Great advice!

Maybe Buffy should try to put some mayonnaise in her hair. I heard some actresses like Blake Lively do that to get a really glossy shine to it.

Shhh! If Buffy knew that Mayo could substitute for Ectoplasm, then she wouldn't deal with all the ghosties for us.

Too bad that the conditioner can't be summoned too!

A bath with wise Dagail and some obligatory future-reading at hand.

A lot of things are going on in Buffy's life simultaneously, maybe a relaxing conversation with Dagail was just, what she needed.

Hair glop is an essential, I’m glad that Buffy didn’t have to go without!

Oh, what a perfectly magical bathing pool! The whole room invites relaxation. I love that Dagail addressed Acadian as she entered, and now he is able to answer for himself.

The russet felt dress made me smile, a nice reminder of the game.

Previously- While Buffy was enjoying a much needed hot bath in Leyawiin’s mages guildhall, she was joined by Dagail. The mysterious old guildmagister had always been able to sense the duality of Buffy and Acadian and greeted them both. She was somehow aware of Dame Boderi’s suggestion that Buffy consider trying to become a paladin, and offered her own cryptic encouragement.

*

Renee- Regarding that sigil stone noise, Buffy’s big ears are not just for looks. We’ll find out why Count Caro had his Countess executed in today’s episode. Buffy shared her hair conditioner recipe with us way back in Book 1 and I couldn’t resist reviewing it again. Ha! Yes, she still occasionally disappears long enough to change clothes unseen.

SubRosa- Elder Scrolls ingredient creations are fun to dream up! And they hopefully help render Buffy’s world more alive and believable. Dagail is neat to write since she feels no obligation to explain the abundant mystery surrounding her and is too old to care what others think. Her reassurance that Buffy is ‘on the right path’ is of some comfort to the confused younger elf though.

DE- I hated to delay spilling the beans on why Alessia Caro was executed but Buffy wanted to linger over cleaning up after closing that Oblivion Gate and I wanted her reminded of Boderi’s suggestion that Buffy consider trying to become a paladin. Calia will tell Buffy what happened to Alessia in today’s episode.

ghastley- Buffy used to hunt Azhklan trolls to fill empty grand soul gems with their dying residual magicka. She learned as a result that troll fat brings a good price, since many women use it in their hair and skin care products due to its regenerative and moisturizing properties.

Lopov- Hee! Buffy’s found that summoning mundane things works best for temporary items that she can use, then conveniently dispose of as the summon dissipates. Bath towels, handkerchiefs and hunting knives are perfect examples. I suppose summoning could perhaps work for soap or shampoo, but Buffy wants the residual of her hair conditioner to remain in her hair until the next time she washes it. A good thought though and you’ve inspired Buffy to work on a summoning spell for her boar bristle and bamboo toothbrush that Daenlin fletched for her.

Grits- As is so often the case, I must thank you for insightfully mentioning the things in this quiet episode that I hoped would stand out.




The next morning, after a small plate of venison sausage with grilled vegetables, I was enjoying some hot hibiscus tea as I chatted with my Leyawiin guildmates around the breakfast table. With a sweet roll poised midway between plate and mouth, I heard the soft jingle of mail armor – a noise not oft heard in the halls of mages. Placing the uneaten pastry on Agata’s plate with a wink, I rose to my feet. The sound grew closer until I heard S’drassa’s raspy voice. “Has the Captain yet broken her fast this morning?”

“Yes, I ate with the oncoming morning watch, thank you,” replied Captain Caelia Draconis as she strode into the dining room accompanied by the tan-robed Khajiit. “Good morning, magisters. I’m here to escort Dame Buffy to the castle.” She was a far cry from the soot-smudged and exhausted guard commander who had left me at the closed Oblivion Gate the afternoon prior. Caelia was now parade crisp, with every hair perfectly restrained in place and a spotless Leyawiin surcoat over the gleaming links of her mail. The arming sword of a Legion officer rode at one hip and an oval city shield was secured to her back by a leather guige.

As I retrieved and shouldered my bow and quiver, I remarked, “You look quite impressive this morning.”

She looked me over slowly as I stood there in my clean buckskins with a waist sash of forest green silk that hosted my magic satchel. My hair was neatly pulled back into a high ponytail. Her inspection ended at my eyes and was accompanied by an approving nod. “Shall we be off then, My Lady?”

I grinned. “Certainly, My Captain.”

On our way to the door, she remarked, “You’ll be pleased to know it’s a beautiful day out.”

“I know,” I replied. “Watching the sun’s first rays highlight the detritus of Dagon’s closed portal outside your northeast gate was bittersweet.”

“You’ve already been out of the city today?” she asked, giving me a sideways glance.

“Yes. I couldn’t resist an early ride. There are few things I enjoy more than watching the sunrise from astride my mare.”

Once outside, we began our trek to the castle. Long morning shadows contrasted sharply with patches of brilliant sunshine that bathed the still lightly populated streets and ivy covered buildings. The sounds of busily buzzing insects reached my long ears, as did the cheerful notes of songbirds as they greeted the day. A light breeze carried the perfumes of domica redwort, lavender and tiger lily. I prompted Caelia, “You said you would tell me more about why Lady Alessia was executed.”

“Not long ago,” she began, “I awoke just in time to deflect the dagger of a Bosmeri assassin in my own quarters. We wrestled to the floor where I managed to turn her blade and force it into her chest. Given her dark shrouded armor and manner of attack we assessed her to be an operative for the Dark Brotherhood.”

“Thank Mara you awoke and were able to subdue her!” I exclaimed.

'Do you understand now, my relief when you walked away from a still breathing Rufio and did not seal Lucien LaChance’s offer?' Acadian’s silent words struck a chord in my heart.

I all too clearly recalled struggling with dark feelings while glaring at the cowering Rufio over the tip of my arrow. I ultimately stepped back from the precipice of killing for hire, contenting myself with immobilizing the man in a manner that only a priest could reverse. I was later pleased to learn that, thanks to the evidence I had gathered and left behind, and Rufio’s inability to flee, he had been arrested and imprisoned. I had friends in the Legion who assured me that those who raped and murdered young girls did not fare well in the Imperial Prison. Though I could have certainly justified killing Rufio, had I loosed that arrow my path would now be much different. How long would it have been before the ‘loving family’ promised by Lucien Lachance sent me to kill fine Legion officers like the one who now walked beside me? I rubbed my arms to give plausible blame to Leyawiin’s cool morning air for the shudder that rippled through me. “Who on Nirn would want to see you killed, Caelia?” The words had already escaped my mouth before I remembered the subject of our conversation. “No! I mean, I remember that Alessia had a foul streak of racial superiority in her heart but. . . why would she want you murdered? You’re an Imperial like her.”

Caelia’s head snapped my way as she pinned me with her eyes. “No! I am proudly Imperial to be sure, but nothing like her. As guard commander for this city, I see Leyawiin citizens - not humans, mer or betmer. My very refusal to persecute citizens for being born with tails, tusks or pointed ears is what made me an impediment to Alessia’s plans.”

“Forgive me, Caelia, I did not mean-“

With a shake of her head, she interrupted, “It was but a few days into our investigation of the incident when Alessia tried to co-opt my sergeant of the guard. She wanted him to present falsified documents to the Count, linking me to the cause of the Renrijra Krin.”

“Are they not a band of Khajiit rebels who act in defiance of the Mane and seek to claim Leyawiin County as part of Elsweyr? If such charges were true, I’d imagine the Count would relieve you from command and recommend your dismissal from the Legion. Or worse.”

“Exactly,” spat Caelia. “She not only promised the sergeant my position, but offered him treasure from her purse and skirts as well.” One hand involuntarily flew up to my mouth as she continued, “Alessia overlooked, however, that Ignatius Varro was cut from the same cloth as the man who trained him - Lucilius Marcus.”

My rueful smile matched Caelia’s. Lucilius was one of the finest soldiers I’d ever met. He had served as Caelia’s senior sergeant before she transferred him to Kvatch where he became Savlian Matius’ second in command. After my hero’s death, Lucilius had been promoted to guard commander of Kvatch.

“Ignatius promptly reported the matter to me and I took my suspicions to Count Caro.”

“You risked reporting this to the woman’s own husband?” I asked.

She nodded. “I’ve known the Count since long before his unfortunate marriage to the attractive, but darkly ambitious Alessia. I believed that his bond of duty to this city would cause him to do the right thing – regardless of personal cost.” After a half smile, she added, “That said, I am not stupid. Had he ordered me thrown into irons, he would have been hard pressed to find one of my soldiers willing to carry out the order. And Ignatius was prepared to take our preliminary findings to Legion headquarters without further direction from me, if necessary.”

“Well,” I said, “it would seem you were right about Count Caro’s sense of duty.”

“Fortunately so,” she replied. “After we discussed the matter, he authorized a search of the Countess’ personal effects. Hidden therein we discovered paraphernalia associated with the Night Mother ritual, along with a small vial that your guild's alchemist subsequently confirmed was filled with a deadly elixir. We also found Alessia’s diary detailing plans to have me assassinated and the Count poisoned. Once those of us who could interfere with her ambitions were eliminated, she expected to become sole ruler of Leyawiin. When confronted with the evidence, she began ranting about ‘tail draggers, knife ears and tuskers infecting her county’. The Count found his bride guilty of treason and had her put to the guillotine the next day.”

We walked without words for a few moments. Caelia lifted an arm to move aside a low hanging willow branch that obstructed our approach to a small bridge. The banks of the pond we passed over hosted ferns, reeds and the yellow heads of bog beacon. Near the surface of the dark water I could see the bright gold scales and white fins of large carp-like fish as they ventured near the surface, hunting for unwary dragonflies. Finally, my anger toward Alessia caused me to break the silence. “What a terrible choice her hateful ambitions forced upon Count Caro!”

Caelia nodded her agreement. “We included a full copy of my investigation with the Count’s letter of condolence to Alessia’s mother, Countess Valga of Chorrol. To the lady’s credit, her measured reply acknowledged that noble birth did not exempt her daughter from the law.”

“That speaks well of Countess Valga,” I offered. “How is Count Caro holding up?”

“Stoically on the outside, but I know that giving the order to have Alessia executed broke his heart.” Caelia’s fist struck the head of the white horse emblazoned on her chest as she returned the gesture of one of her guards standing duty ahead of us. The young soldier then pulled open a heavy door to Castle Leyawiin’s great hall and we stepped inside.

Oh no, did someone nearly steal Buffy's sweetroll? Divines forbid!

Both the Lady and the Captain clean up pretty well.

It is just like Buffy to be out and riding before anyone else even wakes up.

I wonder if that assassin might have been someone Buffy knew? I am glad you took us down a brief stroll down memory lane, to the found family that Buffy nearly had, but wisely turned away from. There but for the grace of Mara we all go.

And now the story behind the execution of the Countess unfolds. Such a sad tale. Prejudice comes from fear, and decisions made from fear are never wise. Poor Count. I imagine he will have trouble ever trusting anyone ever again.

Well, you seem more charitable toward Count Caro than I did! I was pleased, however, to see that your thoughts regarding his wife mirror mine in so many ways. And the tale Captain Caelia unfolded during that leisurely walk across town was not surprising to me at all.

All in all, a very enjoyable two chapters. I can’t wait until next week’s episode!

Beauty fades and the sweetest nectar sours with age. Poor Lady Alessia, c'est la vie.

Who knows, perhaps the Count was looking for an excuse to redecorate the castle?

What a thrilling story behind the death of the Countess Caro. You pulled this brilliantly, Acadian. I had no idea before reading the story, what would be the reason of her execution, but I definitely didn't think that even the Dark Brotherhood would be involved.

I must ask however, because I didn't read Book 1...to get asked to kill Rufio, Buffy must have killed before? Who was it? Was it by accident? You can link me to the original story, if it's not too much to ask.

Okay good. I am glad Alessia's execution gets explained. Otherwise I'd have to bug you with n00by questions! Like, maybe the reason got explained long ago in the first Buffy book, but i was not around back in those days.

Oh my gosh. So she had a bunch of notes and poisons and everything! Not to mention I believe she was the one in charge of that

The spoiler was her husband. He has the key for that room, not her.

Previously- During their walk to Castle Leyawiin to meet with Count Caro, Captain Caelia Draconis explained to Buffy the details of Countess Alessia Caro’s treachery and why the Count was forced to have her executed for treason.

*

SubRosa- I enjoyed being able to weave Buffy’s rejection of the DB back into her story. We’ll see that though the Count knows he made the right decision, it still broke his heart. I expect the lesson he’ll learn is don’t marry someone hoping to change their nature.

Rider- As you know, the game drops clues that the Count was not so noble himself, but in Buffy’s story, he is what I hope the next two episodes show him to be: Imperfect but, on balance, worthy of his title.

macole- I think the Count was blinded by love and wishful thinking regarding Alessia. Thankfully, duty to his county prevailed and he made the right call when it was required.

Lopov- Buffy assassinated Erana - a mage in Chorrol who posed an ongoing mortal threat to Buffy. It happened fairly early in Book 1. I just reread it myself and found her chat with Acadian afterwards to be rather prophetic, I hope you agree. Here is a link to that episode.

Renee- Alessia really was evil. Marius Caro (in Buffy Fiction) actually does want the best for his county and is worthy of his title. Though his heart is good, he is neither perfect nor a pillar of strength. He is naïve and idealistic enough to believe he could change Alessia and it truly broke his heart that he could not ‘fix’ her. Buffy is predisposed to a favorable opinion of the Count because his knighting of Sir Mazoga was instrumental in giving noble purpose to the angry unguided orc’s life. I hope the next two episodes Buffy spends with the Count help reinforce our view of him and how it varies from what one sees in the game.



Emerald banners hung from the lofty ceiling as Captain Draconis and I strode through Castle Leyawiin’s great hall and into the throne room. Fire bowls mounted on short stone columns crackled and hissed softly, just as I remembered. At the end of the green carpet stretched before us were two thrones. One sat empty while the other hosted Count Marius Caro dressed in black and gold finery.

We both stopped four paces short of the balding Imperial and bowed. Caelia reported, “Milord, I bring you Dame Buffy.”

The Count looked weary, but his smile was warm. “Welcome back, Buffy. Our errant knight has not graced this court for far too long. Caelia informs me that Leyawiin is once again in your debt, this time for single-handedly closing an Oblivion Gate just outside our walls.”

“I am pleased to see his lordship again and humbled by his kind words.”

The staccato of boots on stone tile reached my ears. The Count gazed beyond me toward the sound. I turned to see a knight approaching. As he reached the length of carpet leading to the twin thrones, the click of his boots softened. I could now clearly hear the sounds of well-fitted plate armor as it moved with each stride.

Numerous dents, several burn marks and generous streaks of soot and blood, could not disguise the fact that the silver-gray panoply he wore was of the finest quality. If cleaned up and repaired, the exquisite set of heavy plate would likely be worth more than a small house or fine horse. A matching full helm was tucked under his left arm and temporarily hosted the knight’s gauntlets. The ornate handle of a great sword protruded above one shoulder, hinting at its quality.

Disheveled black hair streaked with gray framed the Nibenean Imperial’s face. In the lines of his olive skin were written more than half the years of a human lifespan. An old scar ran prominently from just below one eye across the bridge a nose that would have been aristocratic if not marred by the evidence of being broken at least once.

The man bowed. “Forgive my appearance, Milord. We have but recently closed the last Oblivion Gate plaguing your city.” The voice resonated with a culture and tone suggestive of both authority and a noble heritage.

“Sir Flavius, your bloody badges of service to Leyawiin bring no dishonor to this court,” replied the Count. His gaze then returned to me. “Dame Buffy, I asked the Order of the White Stallion’s Knight Commander to join us this morning.”

I turned to the senior knight, dipped my head slightly and offered my hand. “I’m honored to meet you, Sir Flavius.”

He elegantly touched the back of my hand to his lips. “Decimus Flavius Aquilinus, humbled to be at your service, Dame Buffy.”

“Buffy,” resumed the count, “shortly after Mazoga and Agronak left Leyawiin to assist you at Kvatch, I contracted Sir Flavius to serve as knight commander. He’s capably brought the Order through an expansion of both its numbers and lodge.”

“I saw the new facility as my ship sailed past it on the way here,” I remarked. “Very impressive.”

“Milord,” protested Sir Flavius, “I have several wounded knights being tended in the chapel, and little time for pleasantries.”

Marius Caro lifted an eyebrow peevishly. “And the priests healing them require your personal supervision?”

The knight’s dark eyes flashed for but a moment before a look of granite-like discipline recaptured his chiseled features. “Forgive my impatience, Milord.”

Count Leyawiin’s face softened visibly. “Be at ease, Flavius, I know your heart is with your knights. They are in good hands with the Priests of Zenithar.” He looked at me. “My guard commander could only tell me that your business in Leyawiin involves the Oblivion Crisis.”

“Milord, I would humbly ask that only your ears and those of Captain Draconis and Sir Flavius hear the message I bring.”

The Count glanced at his bodyguard and nodded. Once the steward, footman, two maids and even the soldiers guarding the throne room had withdrawn, I began, “I bring you greetings, Milord, and a dire request from the next Emperor of Cyrodiil.”

“What manner of treachery is this?” exclaimed Sir Flavius. “Is the Septim line not dead? Who would presume to usurp the throne?”

“Silence, Flavius!” The Count’s rebuke echoed throughout the throne room. He gazed at the empty throne to his left. “I know treachery when I see it!” His angry eyes then pinned the armored knight. “Buffy’s integrity and service to Leyawiin, like your own, are above reproach. When last I met with the Elder Council, they quietly alluded to a surviving Septim heir in exile.”

“This outspoken knight,” replied Flavius, “must once again ask forgiveness for his rash and ill-considered words.” The Nibenean’s eyes traveled from the Count to me. “I beg pardons, Milord, Milady.”

Count Caro replied, “That you readily voice your opinions with frankness is an attribute I prize, Flavius, but stay them for a time. I am eager to hear what news Buffy brings from this exiled emperor-in-waiting.” He motioned me to continue.

“There is indeed a surviving Septim whose veins carry the blood of a dragon. His request is for urgently needed forces to reinforce the city of Bruma. As you may be aware, the Amulet of Kings was . . . .”

I proceeded to carefully, and without further interruption, detail how Martin’s desperate plan to recover the stolen Amulet of Kings would expose Bruma to the grave dangers of a Great Oblivion Gate preceded by the opening of several smaller portals to the Deadlands.

“. . . so as you can see, the need to reinforce Bruma is dire. Once Martin has the amulet, he will lead his army to The Imperial City, claim his throne and relight the dragonfires - permanently closing the jaws of Oblivion. In conclusion, Milord, I’ve been authorized to add that Martin Septim, when Emperor, will not forget the loyalty of those nobles who assisted Bruma in her time of need.”

For several moments, the only sound was the gentle hiss and crackling of the nearby fire bowls as Count Caro contemplated his steepled fingers. Finally, he spoke. “I am aware of the devastation that a Great Gate inflicted upon the city of Kvatch. Leyawiin herself could have been brought to her knees by the recent opening of numerous nearby Oblivion Gates, were it not for the intervention of courageous knights and the steadfast diligence of our guard force. Bruma shall have what help I can provide.” He lifted an eyebrow and gazed, in turn, at the two warriors flanking me.

“My knights are well suited for this task and can travel quickly, Milord,” began Sir Flavius. “Leyawiin still faces numerous threats requiring the presence of its brave soldiers and able commander. I would like to leave two knights behind and, with Captain Draconis’ permission, detail them to her should another portal to the Deadlands open and she deems their experienced assistance appropriate. It will take us two days to recover from wounds to the flesh and damage to both armor and weaponry sustained during the recent closing of several Oblivion Gates. Nevertheless, when we do ride north, it will be with a score of ready knights and the speed of heavy white horses.”

The Count’s eyes sought Caelia’s. “What says my guard commander?”

“Sir Flavius has the right of it, Milord,” she replied. “Our citizens still need protecting from day-to-day crime and the nearby roads must be kept free of Black Bow Bandits and other brigands. The political instability brought on by this crisis, and Leyawiin’s unique geography, leave us vulnerable to cross-border raids from Elsweyr or Black Marsh if we are perceived as under-defended. It is now clear why Guildmistress Vilena Donton ordered Leyawiin’s Fighters Guild to Bruma. With most of our knights gone as well, retaining the guard force here is most prudent. I gratefully accept Sir Flavius’ generous offer of two knights to augment my soldiers’ ability to close an Oblivion Gate if required.”

“So be it,” pronounced the Count. “Sir Flavius, return to your knights. Convey my appreciation for their valiant recent efforts. May the Divines speed your preparations to ride north and protect the Knights of the White Stallion as they assist Bruma.” He then addressed Caelia, “Thank you, as ever, for your wise council. Please advise my bodyguard on your way out that I would have words privately with Dame Buffy.”

Hrrm, that went rather better than Julian's visit to the same Count! I do see Count Leyawiin in a somewhat better light than the Countess, and I still do have ideas how things shake down after the Crisis. I just see him as being overly cautious and waiting to see what happens before he decides which side of the fence to jump.

I find myself enjoying the introduction of the Commander of the Knights of the White Stallion. A proper Imperial, to boot! I'm wondering about his past experiences - Legion, mercenary, otherwise? I am content to wait and see where this author chooses to take us in this story, and whether or not we learn more about Commander Flavius Aquinius.

Sir Flavius looks like the real deal. Warrior and aristocrat in one slightly dented package. He instantly reminds me of Savlian Matius. Or Pappy Vitellus from Bravil (except with manners).

That was a lively war council! I enjoyed your portrayal of all the characters, who bring both their passions and professionalism to the table.




Nits?:
just [as] I remembered.
I think you missed the "as" where I inserted it above.

It was wise of Buffy not get herself involved with the Dark Brotherhood and their sadist organization. I read that chapter! I applaud her for staying true to her beliefs, and her decision spared her what could've been a lifetime of regret and something one can never walk back from.

Ah, so what led Lady Caro to her execution was her own murderous plots which didn't work out so well. Can't say anyone will shed a tear over her death, all things considering. Again, it was good to see Buffy recalling past events earlier in her story, which was no doubt very significant and important for her.

Sir Flavius is an interesting character, an-all true Imperial by name, attitude and looks! I have to say the dialogue is superb, and it flows well. I've enjoyed the exchange between Flavius, Buffy and Marius. I'm very interested in seeing what comes next. Buffy has powerful allies on her side.

Thanks for linking me to the Earana story, that was a good read, Buffy in that time period seems very different as she does now. I wonder if anyone except her and Acadian later found out that she was behind Earana's death? I'll probably read more stories from that book, when I have time.

As others have said, Sir Flavius is an interesting character. We'll definitely hear and see more of him, he'll play an important role in the future, I reckon.



Brilliant!

Previously- Buffy relayed Martin Septim’s request for aide for Bruma and its rationale to Count Caro. Advised by Leyawiin’s guard commander and the Knight Commander of the Order of the White Stallion, the Count agreed to send a score of White Stallion Knights to assist with the defense of Bruma. The Count then dismissed everyone from his throne room except Buffy so he could have words with her privately.

*

Rider- To me, the Count always seemed rather a milk drinker. Part of the reason I introduced Sir Flavious was to show that Count Caro actually could rein in such a strong-willed Knight Commander when required. I envision Sir Flavius being from a noble family and having trained as a knight from an early age. I wanted to show that the Order of the White Stallion was in good hands but confess I don’t have significant plans for Sir Flavius going forward. Buffy will share some of her thoughts on both Flavius and Count Caro as she rides north toward Bravil in a couple episodes.

SubRosa- I’m glad that Sir Flavius came across as the gritty real deal - like Savlian Matius, Sir Keldorn (Baldur’s Gate II), Julian of Anvil (Rider’s fiction) or Pappy Vitellus (from Teresa fiction of course). Another reason I introduced Flavius was to, as you say, liven up the ‘war council’ with some crosscurrents and ultimately a good outcome. A score of mounted knights certainly trumps a squad of city guards! Thanks for catching that nit; I do archive Buffy’s story and the more error-free it is the better.

DE- Buffy’s not reluctant to kill varmints who deserve it but I’m glad she only does so on her own terms and not for hire. Thanks for noting the dialogue among Buffy, Captain Draconis, Marius Caro and Sir Flavius. I’m pleased with how it came together for a realistic result.

Lopov- It has been at a glacial pace, but Buffy is gradually becoming of more 'good' alignment and more responsible in her judgments and choices - particularly when it comes to distinguishing between righteous justice and vengeful retribution. Later in Book 1, a detective came close to figuring out Buffy killed Erana, but not quite. Thanks for noting that line you quoted as the Count gestured to the empty throne next to him and admonished Flavius about treachery. I admit that part of why I introduced Flavius was built around wanting to use such a line.




Once we were alone, Count Marius Caro gestured toward the empty throne to his left. “Sit.”

“Yes, Milord.” After removing my bow and quiver, I hopped up into the throne. Sitting back fully back into the chair, my legs stuck straight out. As I moved forward enough to bend my knees, there was a large gap behind my back and both feet still hovered above the floor. The chair fit me no better than it would a human girl who had not yet seen a dozen summers.

“Buffy, it warms my heart to see you once again grace my court. I know not how you come to speak for Martin Septim, but he is fortunate to be so eloquently represented.”

“Thank you, Milord. A score of your knights will be a valuable contribution to the defense of Bruma.”

“Aye.” He then sighed. “This has been a difficult time.”

“Caelia told me of the decision Lady Alessia forced upon you. I’m so very sorry.”

He pointed at the throne in which I sat. “It was long ago, and from that very chair, a newly dubbed small elven knight risked my ire by gently urging that I lead Alessia out of her misguided fog. That same young knight also expressed confidence that I would do what was best for Leyawiin should it become necessary. I confess that the memory of your prophetic words eased the choice I had to make on behalf of my city.”

“You rendered the right judgment, as difficult as it must have been.”

He stared at me for a moment, as if weighing a decision. “You speak and look quite like you belong seated upon that throne, Buffy.”

I looked down at my dangling feet and suppressed a giggle. “I’m afraid I would need a footstool. . . and perhaps a thick back cushion.” When I met the Count’s gaze again, I realized with a start that he was serious. His eyes did not convey mirth, but rather a sincere and warm affection.

Before I could even begin to process what he might be implying, he continued, “Were Alessia alive, I would never admit the fact that I have been drawn to the beauty of your spirit since the moment you first brightened my court long ago. You saw the noble and kind heart of a champion within Mazoga when the rest of us could not see beyond her brutishly crude manner and tusks. You recognized the flaws in Alessia when love blinded me to the hazards they posed. When you assessed that Caelia’s soldiers were not properly trained to close that Oblivion Gate and my knights were fully occupied, you chose – at your own peril – to close it yourself and doubtless saved the lives of many soldiers. Buffy, I need a countess of proven courage and gentle wisdom who can help this city heal from the damage done by that chair’s former occupant. Perhaps. . . in time, you could grow to return my affection.”

There were so many reasons I could never accept his offer, but my mind raced to carefully frame the gentlest decline possible to this grieving widower. “Milord, I know you loved Alessia and hoped you could change her. I’m sure the knowledge that you ultimately made the right decision is scant comfort. You deserve a woman by your side who can give you and Leyawiin the full measure of her love. Alas, I have yet to deal with the grief of losing my own mate at Kvatch. I would not be worthy of the honor you offer when so much of my damaged heart still belongs to the ghost of another.” I watched his eyes carefully, hopeful that my words had struck the right balance between clarity and compassion.

After several long moments, he slowly replied, “I understand, Buffy, and apologize for placing you in the awkward position of declining a lonely Count’s poorly considered proposal.”

“There is no forgiveness required for the high compliment you have paid me, Milord, and I thank you for accepting this humble knight’s emotional deficiencies.”

“Given your recent service to my city, may I at least entice you to stay in Leyawiin by offering a promotion to Knight Sister in the Order of the White Stallion?”

I winced. “I’m afraid I must once again decline your generous offer, Milord. I currently seek a Divine sponsor among the Nine to become a paladin.”

His eyes widened with surprise. Then the trace of a smile appeared as he nodded. “I would take umbrage were it fealty to another noble that drew you from Leyawiin. Becoming a paladin, however, is an entirely different matter. Should the Divines be wise enough to call you, I know they will be well-served. You are a traveler, well-gifted with wanderlust, and I admit that your nature is probably best suited by being unfettered to the mundane concerns of men and mer. I wish you well with your quest, Buffy. You are always welcome in the Court of Leyawiin.”

“Thank you, Milord. For everything.”

As soon as I read that the Count asked Buffy to sit alongside him, my first thought was whether her feet would reach the floor.

Well the Count isn't losing his time, that's for sure. On one hand it's to be expected...on the other hand I think he's rushing and that his "offer" wasn't proposed at the appropriate time.

I like your stories, where there's action and also where there's only dialogue, like this one. You manage to maintain the length of the dialogue long and captivating enough that by the time I come to the end, I still know, what was going on in the beginning.

Well, that certainly was an interesting twist on the character that is Count Caro of Leyawiin! That he turns out to be capable of seeing the true beauty in others regardless of appearance (and true evil, in certain cases) suggests to me to be an innate part of his character that was just called out, if you will, by his previous experience with our beloved Buffy. Certainly not one Julian saw!

And I had to chuckle at the memories this stirred:

Like Lopov, I immediately imagined that Buffy would not fit on the throne.

Ok, did not see that coming! One can certainly relate to the Count's feelings. Buffy is so very easy to love at the best of times. At a time like now, it smacks of the Rebound.

In any case, I think we all know what Buffy's answer will be.

Am I the only one who thinks "The White Stallion" sounds like a porn star?

No.

17 -- Good lord. Count Caro really likes playing around with Flavius. SILENCE! one moment, "I prize thine servitude" the next. I like that you are spending a lot of time describing what a lot of gamers trudge through, or (In my case) barely bothered with, which is, the Assistance for Bruma quest (sic).

Wow, so Marius does not even know it was your elf who basically closed the gate? He only mentions his knights and others under his direct employ. Perhaps this is a measure of humility from the Buffster.

Uh on, private words with the Bosmer Bowgirl. Buffy's in trouble.

18-- Ha, she can't sit fully upon the human throne!

Oh.... oh no.... NO! Wow, he really made a pass at her, JUST AFTER what he just did to his wife. What in the??

Yeah, he can't trap her with some town position which is meaningless to her. She wants to be out there. Not trapped in Leyawiin.

Episode 16: Placing the uneaten pastry on Agata’s plate with a wink, I rose to my feet.

Buffy's humor, grace, and charm all rolled up in one gesture.

I loved Captain Draconis’s tale of discovering who was behind the attempt on her life. She had a quest!

Episode 17: In the lines of his olive skin were written more than half the years of a human lifespan.

This beautiful description brings to mind all the issues and heartbreak between humans and elves caused by their differing lifespans. I had to chuckle when Sir Flavius said “Forgive my appearance,” because I was at that moment thinking that he sounds hot. I loved the interactions between the Count and the Knight Commander.

Hmmm, private words with Dame Buffy. I wonder.

Episode 18: Oh my gosh, as soon as the Count asked Buffy to sit on the throne, my eyes were popping out like a frog’s! Then I had to giggle as Buffy wiggled around in the imposing chair.

Ah, when the Count mentioned Buffy’s advice to him way back when, his proposal made sense. He has been thinking about her generous heart and beauty throughout all of his troubles with Alessia and since. It was a shock to her, but she is in his mind’s eye every day. They both handled the No with remarkable grace.



Honestly, I giggle-snort every time!

Previously- Count Caro quite surprised Buffy by making a case that she become his countess. The inwardly flustered elf managed to gently and rather smoothly decline the Count’s offer, blaming her own deficiencies which included her continued grieving for Savlian. She also explained her interest in becoming a paladin. Count Caro seemed to understand and reacted gracefully, even supportively. Buffy was able to depart on good terms.

*

Lopov- As you know, people grieve differently. Perhaps it is too soon for the Count to really know what he needs. That said, he does make an effective case that Buffy in that throne would be good for Leyawiin. The Count might have had better luck obtaining Buffy’s full time council by offering the Court Mage position to her but he realizes that, realistically, Buffy’s path does not include being tethered to Leyawiin.

Rider- I have tried to portray Marius Caro as rather naively blinded by love and wishful thinking rather than being of a pernicious nature. I’d like to think that seeing the depth and danger of Alessia’s treachery has somewhat opened his eyes.

SubRosa- I agree that the Count’s ‘proposal’ does indeed smack of rebound. That said, he recognizes Buffy is a free-spirited butterfly and knows not when he might get another chance to speak to her of such matters in person. Bird in the hand, strike when the iron’s hot and all that. I chuckled as you conjured the image of a whole order of porn stars riding under the banner of the white stallion.

Renee- Buffy’s piece of 'Gathering Aide for Bruma’ is limited to Leyawiin and Bravil – other emissaries are soliciting help from the other counties. Part of my thinking here is that by limiting her to two counties, we hope to go into reasonable detail with each without risking repetitiveness or bogging down the story. Count Caro does indeed know that Buffy closed the gate outside his north wall: “Caelia informs me that Leyawiin is once again in your debt, this time for single-handedly closing an Oblivion Gate just outside our walls.” As I mentioned to SubRosa, I do think Marius was ‘on the rebound’ as well as unsure when he would see Buffy the Butterfly again. Though I believe Buffy could make a good countess, Marius’ chances with her were, of course, zero for reasons that include the ones you mentioned. She’ll actually muse a bit on her time in Leyawiin early in this next episode as she heads north to Bravil.

Grits- Your perceptions on each of the passages or themes you mentioned are exactly what I was hoping to portray in terms of blending humor, sobering thoughts, beauty, tragedy and – above all – the fundamental grace and goodness in Buffy’s heart. As ever, thank you for your insightful encouragement.

*

All- Were this a hard copy novel, the reader would note their bookmark now resting almost precisely at the midway point. As the Oblivion Crisis relentlessly moves to its ultimate resolution, I hope you will enjoy how Buffy’s supporting role continues to weave its way into more or less familiar events. The seed that Boderi Farano planted about joining her as a paladin will continue to grow as well and, before the end of the book, the Nine will reveal their intent in that regard.







White stones marking the Ayleid ruins of Bawn grew from the forest’s floor near the Niben to my right as Superian carried me north along the Green Road.

Acadian teased, “Countess Buffy has a nice sound to it, don’t you think?”

“Oh stop it!” I scolded. “Though I’m flattered by his offer and truly hope Count Caro finds a worthy mate someday, I figure it’s too soon after the death of Alessia for him to really know what he wants. Besides he’s far too old for me and I’m hardly interested in being cooped up in a castle hosting parties and holding court or whatever countesses do.” I sighed. “As far as Alessia Caro goes, I want to feel pity for her but all I can muster is anger over how she exposed those I call friends to mortal danger.”

We rode quietly for a bit longer. To my left, the afternoon sunshine warmed my shoulder and silhouetted the gray tower of a former Legion fort. It had been purchased years ago by Castle Bravil’s court mage. Fathis Aren kept the place highly warded, presumably to ensure privacy for his research.

“I confess the title Dame suits you better,” offered the paladin. “At least your quest in Leyawiin was successful.”

“Aye, that it was,” I replied. “A score of White Stallion Knights will be a potent addition to the forces defending Bruma.” Since Acadian seemed in a conversational mood and I knew Superian didn’t mind listening, I continued, “Sir Flavius is an interesting, even compelling, man. It’s clear he is devoted to his knights and has certainly accomplished much during his tenure as Knight Commander. There’s no doubt he’s quite fluent in courtly matters, but,” I paused to chuckle, “he’s certainly not shy with his quickly-formed and strong opinions. Like the stallion namesake of his order, Flavius seems well-bred, strong-willed, and surely a challenge to -"

My musings were interrupted when several pink glows of life blossomed at the edge of my twin rings’ ability to detect them. "Now what's that up ahead?” I could identify the unmistakable and large shape of a horse. Nearby, what seemed likely a dismounted Legion rider was engaged in combat with a pair of small round hovering glows. “Wills-o-the-wisp!” At my urging, Superian burst into a thunderous run, and the trees between us and the fight ahead flew past.

As I drew her to an abrupt stop just short of the Legion bay and leaped to the ground, I dismissed a twinge of guilt for intentionally using the other horse as a shield for my own mare. As one of the sparkling creatures fell I was relieved to see that the soldier’s blade could overcome his foes’ resistance to mundane weapons. The man likely had a small enchantment on his arming sword for just this type of situation. Roaring, “For the Empire!” he turned to face the other wisp.

With the soldier between me and the wisp, I raced toward them. Trying to use my bow against the tiny target erratically dancing around the moving man was out of the question due to the risk of friendly fire. To make matters worse, wisps were immune to my illusion spells. He would have to do the killing, but I hoped to reach him in time to keep him healed.

A beam of orange magic reached out from the wisp and began sapping the man’s life.

Suddenly a Khajiit burst from the trees beyond the deadly fight. With a speed much greater than mine, bootless cat feet closed the distance. A short blade held in each forepaw slashed into what I imagined to be the back of the wisp.

Before my feet could deliver me close enough to touch the soldier’s back with a restorative spell, he collapsed.

With no steel standing in front of me for protection, and both hands overflowing with white healing magic, I stared in terror at the sparkling foe hovering before me. My feet frantically scrambled to back up and open some distance. Though the soldier was down, it was now the Khajiit who still made it too risky to use my bow. Kitsune appeared at my side but her illusory yips to draw my attacker’s ire were ignored. As orange magic reached out for me, I began to channel the healing magic that filled my hands into myself. Mercifully, a final slash from one of the Khajiit’s flashing blades exploded our foe into a shower of glowing dust.

The feline skirmisher and I stared at each other only long enough for me to see that she appeared uninjured before I dropped to my knees beside the soldier. The pale glow of his fading life extinguished before I could lay on my hands to attempt a healing. “H-he’s gone.” I removed his helm and gently placed a hand on the Imperial’s cheek.

“The brave human’s name was Octavius Amatiu.” I glanced over to see the Khajiit on one knee reading the back of the soldier’s shield.

I raised my tearful eyes toward a passing white cloud. “Mara, this soldier, Octavius, has risen beyond his shell of flesh and steel. I commend you his spirit and ask that your loving hand guide his journey.”

The Khajiit was now on her feet and I looked up at her as she stared sadly at the soldier’s body. I slipped off my rings to see her more clearly. She wore elven-made armor without helm. All four paws were wrapped in a mixture of leather and cloth, leaving her claws exposed. Cream colored fur was liberally accented with dark markings, reminiscent of a snow leopard, and a shock of red mane swept back over her head. “Thank you for trying to help this man, and for very likely saving me and both horses.”

“I am sorry I did not arrive sooner.”

I noted that she did not speak in the traditional Khajiiti manner, which often occurred when a kit was raised by another race. . . or under the yoke of slavery. As I rose to my feet, I realized that she was Daenlin’s height – not even a head taller than I. Both ears were adorned with loops of gold. A thin white scar ran almost vertically down one side of her muzzle. She appeared to be evaluating me as well.

“I am called Buffy.”

“My name is Aravi.”

*

Note: Aravi is the character of King Coin, presented here during her latter days in Oblivion before moving to Skyrim. KC and I collaborated on the scene several years ago and Buffy’s fiction has finally advanced to where it belongs. Aravi’s appearance will continue into the next episode before the two say farewell.

I am just imagining Countess Buffy and her friends at a dinner party, and suddenly everyone's clothes vanishes! Oh wait, we don't have to imagine that do we?

Wills-o-the-wisp or Willo-o-wisps? Now there is an authors conundrum.

Things are really going from bad to worse in this sudden encounter with the Wisps! You have quite ably manage to inject a real sense of danger into the story, which is not easy with a character who is by now so able as Buffy. Kudos!

Aravi! It is great to meet an old friend.

It certainly sounds to me like Buffy was impressed by this Sir Flavius in more ways than one

I hate losing those Legion riders! That is why I crowned them in my game (and named them, too). So sad to lose one - Cyrodiil can spare none of them.

Aravi! So good to see her again! She has been sorely missed on these pages.

Bootless cat feet! Flashing blades! It’s Aravi!!

Racing to help the Legion rider when she knows her Illusion spells and bow won’t help her is my favorite Buffy moment in the story so far. I could hear that wisp absorb noise when it turned on her. Yikes.

Like haute, I also feel that Buffy was greatly impressed by stallion-like Sir Flavius.

A thrilling battle - as SubRosa points you, you created a sense of imminent danger when WotW focused on Buffy.

Nice to include Aravi to the book, that was an unexpected surprise.

You need to tell Buffy to open up Options, (or is it Settings?) and turn off friendly fire.

There are so many things that help the solo adventurer, but hinder them in teamwork, especially invisibility. Never let an Archer behind you when you're invisible!

And great to see Aravi get another guest appearance. Does this mean KC is about to add more adventure with Buffy as a guest?

Previously- With her task in Leyawiin complete, Buffy rode north toward Bravil. Along the way, she tried to assist a Legion rider battling a pair of wills of the wisp. The fight did not go well but was somewhat salvaged by the sudden appearance of a Khajiit skirmisher. The soldier did not survive. Buffy learned the Khajiit’s name is Aravi.

*

SubRosa- If Buffy were Countess, all her parties would be clothes optional of course. Thank you for your comments about Buffy’s fight. I try to make most her fights rather decisive, even elegant, but sometimes (much to her chagrin) she does encounter moments of sheer terror.

Rider- I’m with you. Buffy used to often temporarily adjust Superian’s speed to match Legion bays and just ride along with those Legion riders, helping them and even repairing their gear after fights.

Grits- KC and I drafted this scene way back before Aravi moved to Skyrim. It’s a joy to feature her in the last and next episode. That fight was indeed another example of Buffy instinctively charging in to help someone without considering the cost.

Lopov- Buffy was indeed intrigued by Flavius. I suspect in some ways he reminds her of Savlian. Noble in character and strong enough to wield steel and face challenges head on instead of relying on the crutches that Buffy’s fragility requires (subtleness, speechcraft, stealth, illusions, range. . .).

ghastley- I confirmed with KC some time ago that he’s still fine with me using the scene, but this two-episode cameo with Aravi will be their only time together in Book 3. I don’t know if he has any plans to continue presenting Aravi's adventures. No friendly fire is definitely a nice feature of ESO. One reason we want to bring the Oblivion Crisis to a close is to achieve a good point of 'completion' for Buffy to subsequently learn time travel and finally allow her fiction to move beyond the Third Era.



As soon as Aravi and I gripped each other’s forearm in a warrior clasp, I experienced a sharp twinge in my lower abdomen. Acadian felt it too, for he silently warned, ’It’s only been two months. You know what this means.’ The paladin was better with dates than I, and he was right. My next semiannual time of fertility, with its attendant cramping, wasn’t due for four more months. This was a Slayer’s warning of nearby vampires. The pain eased noticeably as we broke our grip.

An instinctive glance skyward verified more than adequate afternoon sunshine to burn vampires. My eyes then traveled to those of the skirmisher in front of me. Hers were green, with no hint of red or gold. This Khajiit was no vampire, but it was certain that she was infected. “I am a skilled healer. Are you injured?”

“The first wisp was dead before I got within its range. The second remained focused on the soldier, then you, allowing me to safely kill it. I am uninjured.”

Did she not realize she carried the disease of vampirism?

By now, Superian and her new Legion friend had wandered over to join us. The soldier’s mare nudged the armored corpse, then both horses snorted and backed away a few paces. “I want to check Octavius’ mount for injuries.” My glowing hands quickly confirmed the bay was fine, but I intentionally lingered while inspecting the animal, giving me time to think. While I was pleased that Aravi wasn’t injured, the fact that she had no wounds for me to heal eliminated a comfortable avenue for me to reveal that she was diseased. The only mortal on Nirn who knew I was a Slayer was Boderi Farano. I didn’t care to be known as a freak of Azura, and I certainly didn’t want vampires hunting me down trying to prove themselves by killing a Slayer.

I looked at Aravi, who was collecting the residual glow dust from our foes into a small pouch. She glanced my way and said, “I am not familiar with how Imperials honor their dead. Should we offer his body to the soil? Fire? Water?”

“I would build a flaming pyre for him if alone and far from help," I replied. "Fortunately, neither is the case today. Bravil is my destination and but a short ride to the north. I would like to deliver Octavius’ body and horse to the city guard there. If you would permit it, I can cast spells to strengthen the two of us and reduce the soldier’s weight long enough to lift him over the back of his horse for one final ride. I think we can get him there before dark.”

“I am willing to help secure this brave man to his horse and think your plan is a sound one. I will not accompany you though, for my destination is Fort Redman to the south.”

Between the two of us and my spells, we were able to muscle the Imperial over the back of his mare without adding the indignity of stripping off his heavy armor. As we lashed him into position, Acadian convicted me with his silent words, ’Buffy, your skill as a healer implies responsibilities that the elf I know does not retreat from.’

Aravi strapped the soldier’s shield across the man’s back while I rigged his sword belt over the Legion mare’s pommel. Acadian was right. It was the role of Slayer I rejected, not that of healer. “Fort Redman,” I offered, “is reputed to be a vampire lair.”

“Yes. I hunt them. For reasons that are my own.”

We stepped to the front of the horse and I met her gaze. “Aravi, I have. . . abilities. Among other things, I can sense the presence of vampires. I detect the taint of vampirism on you and believe that you are infected.”

Both ears flattened back, but her expression gave no further clue to her reaction. I could see the tip of her tail as it flicked out to one side then the other. Green eyes gazed beyond me toward the Niben for a time before returning to study my face. After several more long moments she spoke, “As a vampire hunter, I have been infected and cured many times. There comes a dangerous point, somewhere between immunity and vampirism where the taint remains, but the darkness is hopefully kept at bay. I find it necessary to seek spells or potions on almost a daily basis to manage the condition.”

“I am unfamiliar with what you describe but freely offer my curative magicks. I can remove the simple form of porphyric hemophilia before a patient is fully turned. I don’t know if I have the skill to provide you a more permanent solution. Would you like me to try? As a healer, I promise discretion. All I ask in return is the same from you regarding my abilities.”

Both ears perked up and her eyes reflected a ray of what I thought might be hope. “You may count on me to return your discretion. As for my illness,” she exhaled as if reaching a decision, “I would appreciate your attempt to lift its curse.”

I nodded. “My healing is rather like that of a priest and I will be laying both hands upon you. Relax for me, please.” I quickly drank a potion. Its blend of chamomile, ginger, primrose and cinnamon would ease the cramping that I expected to worsen while in physical contact with Aravi. Filling my hands with white magic, I placed one upon each side of her face.

As arcane power flowed through the intimate bond between us, I noted countless old wounds. Some had been healed by experts, others by amateurs or potions. I ignored them as I searched for disease. Although clearly similar to porphyric hemophilia, what I found was more persistent – as if partially integrated within every organ. I was startled as a horrifying scene flashed into my mind of several sleeping patrons inside an inn being slaughtered. Just as suddenly the vision was replaced by leaves and branches whipping past in near darkness. The sprint stopped at the crest of a ridge, revealing the first rays of a new sun. Then the frightening images ceased.

I transitioned my focus from diagnostic to therapeutic. First I tried a general healing spell. The disease diminished greatly, but traces remained. I began to understand why Aravi experienced only temporary relief with normal spells or potions.

Refining the focus and intensity of my magic, I was able to completely eliminate the disease from a small portion of her body. Encouraged, I worked methodically from one area to the next, from organ to organ. By the time I was almost done, my heart sank. The disease had already begun to reappear in the first areas I had treated! I continued this for a time until the futility became clear. As my desperation grew, I tried to absorb her disease into my own body for I knew that, as a Slayer, I could not be turned. By the time that proved unsuccessful, I was exhausted and low on magicka. Reluctantly, I allowed the healing bond to dissipate and lowered my hands.

As Aravi’s eyes read mine, the hint of hope they had held was replaced by a look of stoic disappointment.

“I’m sorry, Aravi. I was able to temporarily improve your condition significantly, but it moves from one organ to another, reappearing faster than I can fully cure it. I tried several techniques to no avail. I expect you’ll continue to require frequent spells or potions to keep this at bay as you search for a permanent cure.”

“Thank you for the attempt, even though it was not successful.” She glanced over one shoulder at the sun now kissing the treetops. “I am comfortable traveling at night and, since you want to reach Bravil before dark, let us be on our separate ways.”

“May green grasses and cool waters ease your path, Aravi.”

“Farewell, Buffy.” She returned my smile before slipping noiselessly into the forest.

As Superian and I led the Legion mare and her cargo north toward Bravil, I commented to Acadian, “That was a terrifying feeling, being helplessly unable to use my bow to defend myself against that wisp with Aravi in the way.”

“Remember it well, Buffy,” replied Acadian, “for in order to fully understand the importance of defending the defenseless, you must experience the plight of feeling powerless yourself.”

“Are you trying to train me as a paladin?” I teased.

Uh oh, Buffy is getting cramps. I remember what that means!

I loved Buffy's conundrum here, and wanting to protect her identity as The Slayer. It not only hearkens me back to a certain TV show whose name Buffy shares, but it also reminds me of superheros.

Well that is thrown out there. We will see how this goes.

I liked the touch of Buffy brewing a quick potion to lessen her cramping before she begins healing.

I enjoyed your description of Buffy searching through Aravi for the disease, and then combating it. It reminds me of shamanic healing. In their traditions, disease is caused by evil spirits. To cure someone, you travel to the spirit world, find the spirit responsible, and defeat it.

Finally, a brave admission of feeling fear and powerlessness. And a wise observation that feeling empathy for those in such straits, is an important component to fighting for them. Otherwise you end up fighting not for the people you purport to protect (can I alliterate that any more?), but rather for your own ego. That can only end badly for everyone. This was where January started from as a superhero, and it is always her foundation. Looks like Avery will have to make a new cape for Buffy!

Sure, that makes sense. Otherwise ES6 might finally be out by the time you're wrapping up the Main Quest from 2006.

Aw, sounds like she's blaming herself for the guard's demise. After all the adventuring she's done, she's not truly hardened yet.

WHOA she meets Aravi!!! Nice. I remember King Coin's character. Wherever Coin is.

Buffy has Cure Disease. Very good. Interesting that Aravi would not already know how to cure this herself. I wonder if that's based on KC's roleplay somehow.

Beautiful story! I dare to say that it's been my favorite so far.

I like it how Buffy immediately sensed "vampirism" in Aravi, but kept her thoughts to herself for a while. I expected the healing process would be futile in the end, but at least it was worth a try. Describing vivid scenes which she experienced during healing, was a nice touch.

There is much I don't know about Buffy but I found this statement most interesting. From one Hunter to a Slayer, Jandaga has for quite some time carried a portable Cleansing Shrine he found in one of the lost spires. He uses it daily in order to keep the disease in remission.

I loved this healer episode! Buffy’s description of her process was fascinating. My favorite part was when she touched on what I’m guessing is Aravi’s memory or nightmare in the vision of the inn patrons and the sunrise. Is speaks highly of Buffy that she is still willing to help people, knowing that through their contact she may see things she doesn’t want to see and learn things she doesn’t want to know.

Previously- Buffy was surprised to learn that her new friend, Aravi, was infected (but not turned) by an unusually pernicious form of vampirism. Buffy’s offer to attempt a healing was accepted but proved unsuccessful. Aravi would continue to need routine healings or potions until she could find a permanent cure. The Khajiit assisted Buffy in getting the dead Legion rider aboard his horse before the two ladies parted ways. Buffy then resumed her ride to Bravil with the Legion mare, carrying the corpse of her former rider, in tow.

*

SubRosa- Neat observation I hadn’t thought of as you compared Buffy’s reluctance to admit she’s a Slayer with a superhero’s challenges regarding maintaining a secret identity. As you recall, Buffy’s style of healing is quite intimate, empathic and personal. That allows a superb degree of accurate diagnosis but carries the limitations of requiring a physical bond (laying on of hands) and having to deal with some of what spills over to her, both physically and emotionally. In her world, restoration magic is more impersonal, safer for the healer and can be cast from range. Buffy’s healing is more like that of a priest. . . or paladin.

Renee- Buffy’s quick to blame herself whenever she fails to save or heal an ally. So it was with both that soldier and Aravi. I expect Aravi knows basic restoration healing/cure spells; Buffy’s healing is more specialized/focused but, alas, not up the task of fully curing Aravi.

Lopov- Why thank you! Buffy overcoming her reluctance to heal Aravi is another small step along her path of embracing the responsibilities inherent with her gifts and abilities.

macole- What Aravi told Buffy about the vampiric condition she deals with is pretty close to what King Coin described in his writings and showed in his Oblivion vids with Aravi. He did use a mod, and his depiction was quite close to the mod. I’m not familiar with the mod but it sounds like you may well be.

Grits- I’m so glad you enjoyed Buffy’s attempt to heal Aravi. As you can see the process is rather intimate, allowing her to glimpse into the medical history, mind and even spirit of her patient. If you recall, healing a small purposefully inflicted wound upon Martin Septim is what allowed Buffy to announce with certainly that his veins carry the blood of a dragon.

*

All- Once again, I want to thank King Coin for allowing this brief encounter between Buffy and Aravi. As far as Aravi’s condition, she ultimately traveled to Skyrim where the Companions were able to remove all hints of vampirism by infecting her with lycanthropy. Perhaps not an ideal solution but, at last report, Aravi seemed satisfied with the tradeoff.



Ayleid glow stones that had been provided by my guildmate Carandial’s research expeditions to nearby Anutwyll softly lit the interior of Bravil’s Bay Roan Stable. I had wiped down Superian’s tack and dispelled it before starting to groom her. Satisfied with her feet, I exchanged the hoof pick in my hand for a curry and began to scribe circles over her coat to loosen debris and stimulate the flow of oils. Antoine led in the Legion bay mare that no longer carried the corpse of her former rider. The ruddy-faced stablehand began loosening then removing her tack. “Well?” I asked.

“Me and the same guard who took your report delivered that soldier to the chapel,” replied the Breton. “They let us bring the horse right inside before unloading his body. A priestess then wrapped him in a cloak of frost so he’d . . . keep until Captain Lerus gets over there and decides what to do with him. I figure they’ll let me know what they want me to do with the soldier’s mount here.” Expert hands quickly finished stripping the bay of her tack.

I passed Antoine the hoof pick and began flicking loose hair and debris from my own mare with a brush. “I’m sure they’ll let the soldier’s family – if he has any – know what happened to him.”

“A shame,” the Breton replied soberly as he began grooming the Legion horse. “You and Superian home for a time now? I know Button and Aetherius appreciate her company.”

In response to hearing his name, Carandial’s bay raised his head above the wall of his stall. Antoine smooched toward the gelding, then began rubbing the curry over his current customer. I knew Button, the chapel’s draft shire, was still out in the corral enjoying the evening. “Only for a day, perhaps as many as three,” I finally replied. “Then it’s back up to the University.” I set aside the brush and reached for a burlap rub rag. “Have things been quiet here then?”

“Aye, ‘cept for a paint that only stayed one night. Belonged to some monk. Strange stable markings on his tack I never seen before. Crossed blades beneath a crown.”

I paused at the description of markings associated with the Emperor’s Blades. “Is there anything else you can tell me about this monk?” Superian bumped me with her head so I would resume my gentle strokes with the rub rag.

“He said the less I knew about him the better. And he paid up front. He kept the hood of his brown robe pulled up. About all I could tell was that he was a big Redguard. Oh, and he carried a katana – odd for a monk maybe, but I’ve heard the wilderness just isn’t safe anymore.” Antoine exchanged his curry for a brush. “Anyway, he got here the day after you left and, like I said, only stayed one night. Can’t say I blame him. That was the night old Hans Black-Nail was murdered.”

Before I could reply, Captain Viera Lerus swept into the stable building. “Ah, there you are. Thank you, Buffy. One of my guards relayed your report to me. Damn wills-o-the-wisp.” She spat on the floor. Antoine twitched in response and the muscles of his jaw rippled. The stable hand managed to look totally absorbed in grooming as his brush busily flicked loosened horse hair off the Legion mare and directly toward the officer. Lerus, apparently oblivious to the insult, continued, “Octavius was only recently assigned the route between The Imperial City and Leyawiin.”

“Do you know if he has any kin?” I asked.

“Yes,” the Imperial replied. “His people are up in the capital. I checked with the Imperial Trading Company’s office here and the Black Swan is due for a brief stop at dawn tomorrow before continuing north. I booked passage for Octavius’ body, his horse and an escort. One of my soldiers, Petronius, has some leave coming up in The Imperial City, so I’ll be sending him.” She turned to Antoine. “You there. Meet Petronius at the chapel early tomorrow with that mare. The plan is to use Ocatvius’ horse to carry his body down to the dock and load both onto the Black Swan at sunrise.”

Antoine met her gaze coolly. “I’ll do as you ask. This mare and her former rider deserve a smooth trip home.”

“Captain,” I said, “Antoine tells me Hans Black-Nail was recently murdered?”

“Nothing you citizens need concern yourselves with.” She began to turn, then paused and gave me a thin smile. “Once again, I appreciate your service to the Legion and will mention it in my report to Count Terentius.”

Mention of the name reminded me of my purpose in Bravil. I blurted, “Can you help me get an audience with the Count? It’s about the Oblivion Crisis.” When my words were met with an unreadable stare, I added hopefully, “I have a letter of introduction from Arch Mage Traven.”

“What does the Mages Guild have to do with the Oblivion Crisis?”

“It will take many disparate forces working together to defeat the foes that threaten Tamriel. My message is for Count Bravil however, not for the fine horses who populate our city’s stable. It does involve martial matters though, so I would ask that you attend as well.”

She slowly eyed me from ear tips to boots. “Very well. Report to the Count tomorrow morning at ten.” She then wheeled and left the stable.

After a few moments, Antoine grumbled, “Spittin’ on my floor and bossin’ me around like I was one o’ her guards. . . I hope horse hair makes her itch and sneeze.”

As soon as my fingers, deft from practice, had removed any tangles from Superian’s long mane and tail, I bid farewell to Antoine and made my way into the city.

Using Welkynd Stones to illuminate the stable sounds much safer than flame-burning lanterns. It always amazes me that stables did not all burn down in the old world.

I would much rather eat curry than a pick. But you aren't supposed to smear it all over a horse!

Great to hear from Button and Aetherius again!

I wonder who this mystery monk of the crossed Blades was? Baurus perhaps? Wait, Hans Black-Nail was murdered the same night he was in town? Me thinks Baurus thinned out the Mythic Dawn by one member.

The Black Swan would be a great name for a pirate ship. It would have to be captained by Natalie Portman of course.

The hospitality of the Bravil government seems somewhat lacking of late. What am I saying, of late? I doubt Buffy's mission in her home town will go as smoothly as it did in Leyawiin.

Once again I am struck by our opposite views of certain guard captains. I do quite like how you portrayed Viera Lerus here, very Imperial and snooty (almost Altmeri) in her attitude towards the stable folks.

Baurus did cross my mind when I read Antoine's description of the monk, however there are plenty of other Redguards that match - Achille and Belisarius come to mind. Anyway, I look forward to hopefully learning the identity of the mysterious monk.

And I also look forward to Buffy's encounter with Count Terentius of Bravil!

And through all of this, I keep thinking - poor mare, having to lug the dead body all over the Niben!

Another mystery, this time involving the hooded monk and the death of a sleeper. Like others, I'm curious to what will follow. And I'm also curious to how Buffy's meeting with Terentius will go - he's probably the most vulgar Count in Cyrodiil and might turn to be an unpleasant negotiator.

Great to hear that the Blades are getting things done in mysterious ways! Antoine made this scene sparkle. It was lovely to see Buffy caring for Superian. Ugh, Captain Lerus sure won’t be a friendly face at tomorrow’s meeting.

I get the impression that Hans Black-Nail might have raised suspicions before he was outed by the presence of the Blade, whoever that is. So Viera Lerus probably doesn't consider it a murder, as Antoine does.

Given the divergence of Buffy's story from the regular Champion one, almost any of the Blades will have to fulfill some of the roles from time to time. It could even be Jauffre. But Count Terentius won't have changed, or been replaced by a sleeper.

Previously- Once in Bravil, Buffy ensured the Legion mare and her deceased rider were taken care of, earning the favor of the city’s guard commander. Buffy took the opportunity to ask the officer for (and receive) an appointment with Count Terentius for the following morning.

*

SubRosa- I agree about stables and fire; it seem very natural in Buffy's magical world to use something other than flame to illuminate them at night. Thank you, as ever, for letting me use Button from Teresa fiction in Buffy fiction.

Rider- I hope to portray Viera as rather ‘gray’. She is indeed a bit snooty and has had to adapt/compromised somewhat to serve as guard captain for a lousy and demanding count. She will more or less stand up for Buffy from a Legion perspective when required though as we’ll see in a couple episodes. Though the mysterious Redguard Blade’s identity will remain a mystery, my hope was indeed that Baurus would come to mind. I chuckled when you said you were looking forward to Buffy’s encounter with Count Terentius – she is dreading it! Hee!

Lopov- We’ll definitely hear and see more about Mythic Dawn sleepers while in Bravil. Buffy will settle in and catch up with friends a bit in this next episode, then meet with Count Terentius in the episode following today’s. I hope the likely sparks will be worth the wait.

Grits- I’m so glad you enjoyed Antoine at the stable. As you know, Buffy loves her precious mare. Though Buffy and Viera Lerus will never be pals, the guard captain will actually speak up somewhat for Buffy when it counts (no pun intended).

ghastley- I’m intentionally creating some questions that, for Buffy (and readers), will remain unanswered. Was the Redguard Blade Baurus? Was Viera’s ‘nothing citizens need concern themselves about’ attitude regarding Hans’ death simply reflective of her somewhat snooty/dismissive nature or did the Blade perhaps advise the city’s guard commander of his action as a law enforcement courtesy?



“Buffy!” exclaimed the Bosmer as I breezed around the shop’s counter and into her arms. “I take it you’re done with whatever called you away to the University?”

I eased out of the embrace and took her hands. “I’m afraid not, Nilawen. My task just happily brings me home to Bravil for a brief time.”

“Does Daenlin know you’re in town?” she asked.

“He’s my next stop,” I replied. “Do you have any fresh flowers?”

Nilawen smiled. “Yes, take those.” She pointed to a lovely bouquet of tiger lilies and domica redwort filling a vase on her counter. “I just cut them from my back garden a couple hours ago. I’ll replace them in the morning.”

I fished out a couple silver pieces from my silk coin purse and pressed them into her hand. Plucking the flowers from their vase, I commented, “I noticed the Fighters Guildhall next door is dark as if no one’s there?”

“Yes,” she replied. “Tadrose stopped in a couple days ago to stock up on some supplies for the guild before they left. Apparently, her commander got word from Guildmistress Vilena Donton for the whole branch to report somewhere. She wouldn’t tell me where, or even when they might be back,” Nilawen lowered her voice even though we were alone in the shop, “but she bought several wolf pelts so my guess is somewhere cold.”

“Well, stuff me gently,” I mused aloud. “I leave for a few days and look what happens? The whole Fighters Guild ships out and Antoine tells me Hans Black-Nail was murdered!”

“Oh, that was just awful!”

“What exactly happened?” I asked.

“It’s very mysterious and the guards aren’t talking about it,” she replied. “Ask Daenlin. He was the first one there before any soldiers showed up.”

“Thanks for the flowers, Nilawen.”

My next stop was the Archers Paradox, which was as dark as the Fighters Guild. A spell unlocked the door and another illuminated the interior. Digging around in one of Daenlin’s cupboards, I found the vase I had given him several years ago, filled it with water and placed it on his sales counter. I then arranged the flowers – like arrows in a quiver - and slipped out of the shop. Yet another spell relocked the door. Knowing Daenlin to be a mer of habit, I had a good idea where to find him.

As the Lonely Suitor Lodge came into view, a smile grew across my face. Standing under the light of a street lantern just outside the tavern and rubbing his full belly was my archery master. I called out, “Can you walk a girl home?”

Daenlin braced himself and caught me as I flew into his arms. “Oomph! What a happy surprise! How long are you in town?”

“Not long.” I felt safe and contented within the embrace I had known since before I could walk. “No more than two or three days I expect.”

After a squeeze, the old Bosmer gently pushed me to arms length to inspect his apprentice. I recalled being no taller than his waist when he began my archery instruction. But now, I was fully grown and could see over his shoulders – the same shoulders I had ridden upon as a little elf. “Welcome home, Buffy, even if for too short a time. Are you headed to your guild then?”

I nodded and repeated my request. “Walk me home?”

“Of course.”

I took his offered arm in both of mine as we leisurely strolled across the bridge above the tributary that bisected the city on its way to the Niben, and began catching ourselves up on each other’s news. I was pleased that, when we reached the end of the bridge, Daenlin turned toward the Warlock’s Luck and castle instead of taking me directly to my guild. “Nilawen said you discovered the body of Hans Black-Nail. That must have been awful. What happened?”

“It was a little later than this time of night,” he began. “Hans left the Suitor while I lingered over an ale. Only a minute or two later, we all heard a brief ruckus outside. I was first through the door and there was Hans on the ground. His head lay several feet away from his body – cleanly severed. There was blood all over the ground of course.”

“Who killed him?” I queried.

“There was no sign of his killer so whoever it was must have been skilled enough to decisively dispatch Hans then quickly disappear - all in a matter of moments.”

“As healer,” I pondered aloud, “I’ve seen plenty of fatal neck injuries inflicted by swords but they’re usually quite messy. I should think it takes a superb blade in the hands of a highly proficient and strong warrior to cleanly decapitate a foe.” I remembered Antoine’s description of the mysterious katana-equipped Redguard who I suspected was a Blade, how his brief visit coincided with Hans’ death, and the warning Agronak had given me about Mythic Dawn cultists before I left the Arcane University. “Do you know if there was any sort of tome or scrolls in Hans’ belongings?”

The old mer stared at me for a moment. “Why yes. He had a book with him. Something about a mystic dawn or such. The guards took it as soon as they showed up. How did you know?”

“I fear it’s related to my current tasking by the guild.” I winced. “I-I’m afraid I can’t tell you much more.”

Daenlin stopped us. Placing a hand on each of my shoulders, he turned me to face him. “Buffy, what in Mara’s name have you gotten yourself into?”

“Someday I’ll tell you, as we enjoy a warm bowl of stew made with venison from a joint hunt. For now, just know that the Mythic Dawn is a cult of very dangerous people in league with Mehrunes Dagon. Hans’ death was the work of lawful agents of the Empire, not criminal assassins.” I pulled his arm comfortably around me against the evening’s chill and coaxed him toward my guild – and a lighter subject. “Has hunting been good the last few days, Master?”