I loved Orranvir's reaction to seeing Dagail in his alchemy lab. Clearly there is some past history here, concerning drapes and carpet.

Ahh, woman problems. January wishes there was a potion for her woman problems. But she has different woman problems than Buffy and Dagail. In more than one way.

Buffy's selflessness concerning her Cramps Begone potion is laudable. However, Dagail does have a point. Buffy needs some cold, hard cash. I hope that robe of Dagail's that Buffy is wearing is not one of those ugly green bags that the Mages Guild loves to put their members in during the 3rd Era!

Now we can do some serious shopping!

Oh my! Sounds like Dagail accidentally discovered the potion “Alchemy Explodes.” How fun to watch Orranvir go from dismayed to impressed with an assist from Dagail’s cramps. Less fun for Dagail, but at least she’s feeling better! Good to see that Buffy’s alchemy skills work just as well in the 2nd Era, and can be a good source of income for her.

Ooo, there’s the future Guild Magister Dagail handling a transaction to everyone’s benefit. Shopping and lunch, yay!

After solving women's problems, it's time to do and enjoy some proper shopping!

Buffy's altruism is to be admired.

This is based mostly on Kynareth’s recommendation to avoid letting others know of her time travel.

Cool, I get it now.

.... Cramps relieved immediately! See, it'd be nice to have magic here on Earth just for that reason. Magic from alchemy that is. Ingredients alone don't always help.

Whoa, she hasn't even got shoes, so she/you are starting with literally nothing. She got that robe from Dagail or one of the guild member's I'm guessing.





Jandaga's hippies and Buffy have something in common.

Previously- Early morning found Buffy and Dagail crafting potions. The guild’s alchemist interrupted them, alarmed over what seemed to be a history of alchemical mishaps involving Dagail. Buffy calmed him down and they got into a discussion of the anti-cramping potions Buffy was crafting. The discussion ended with Buffy sharing her recipe and an impressed alchemist compensating Buffy 200 gold in anticipation of how profitable the potions could be for the guild. The ladies then made plans to go shopping with Buffy’s newly acquired gold.

*

ghastley- Well, you have to admit the shopping situation is dire. For an elf who claims it is not possible for a woman to have too many shoes, she has exactly zero pairs!

SubRosa- Thanks for pointing out Dagail’s alchemical efforts in the past may not have always turned out so well. In ESO Buffy met an Altmer woman born in the body of a man who was able to address the problem as elegantly as casting a gender changing spell. In the second Era, guild mages generally wear blue robes that actually don’t look bad – if they fit properly of course.

Grits- Thank you for noting our efforts to gradually reveal that the effervescent, sometimes ditzy Dagail really does harbor the judgment, wisdom and even leadership that foreshadow her centuries as a guild magister for the Leyawiin chapter. She’ll continue to display more hints of this going forward.

Lopov- Buffy is indeed quite altruistic when it comes to those she cares about. Ironically, it is when protecting her friends that she struggles as a paladin with the line between righteous justice and vengeful retribution. Trying to embrace the concept of mercy in such circumstances seems to help her.

Renee- Yes, she arrived naked and afraid. She’ll soon verify that several of her non-illusion spells and the spells Kynareth taught her will work though. Dagail gave her that robe in Episode 13, but it is way too big.



As we entered the clothing shoppe, a middle-aged Imperial looked up from her ledger, frowned at the baggy robe I wore and said, “Dagail, what on Nirn have you brought me?”

“Augustina,” replied Dagail, “this is my guildsister, Buffy. She’s so dressed because all her belongings were destroyed by a freakish bolt of lightning. Though on a budget, we do have some gold to spend. I’ll ask that you mind your manners if you wish our business.”

Augustina’s look of disapproval continued but her tone softened some as she addressed me. “Ah yes, you’re the little wood elf we’ve all heard about who survived a lightning strike. The Goddess of Storm and Sky, Kynareth herself, must have been watching over you.”

If only you knew how right you are, I thought. “Pleased to meet you Augustina. As you can readily see,” I lifted my robes a bit to show my bare feet, “I’m in need of clothes and shoes. And Dagail is right; I am on a budget at the moment.”

The clothier rubbed her chin pensively. “Just what kind of budget are we talking here, Buffy?”

“I have 200 gold and should hope to leave here with an outfit that fits better than my current one.”

She sucked in her breath. “As we must hold back some gold if we also expect to send you out of here with something on your feet, your budget will simply not allow the purchase of a new dress. Not one that I would want any customer of mine to be seen in at any rate.”

“Is there nothing that can be done for her?” asked a clearly unhappy Dagail.

“I did not say that,” the Imperial replied, “for I am nothing if not a sucker for a challenge.” She pointed at my robe. “May I?”

“Certainly.” I held both arms out to my sides as she stepped closer and removed the sash Dagail had wrapped around my waist to restrain all the excess fabric. The hem of the robe fell in a puddle around my feet as the middle of the robe lost any semblance of following my shape.

She tugged here, pulled there, pinched in the excess fabric around my waist, then rubbed her chin again. Finally she spoke. “What you’re wearing is actually a perfectly serviceable mage robe. It is simply much too large for you. And even at their best, such robes do not flatter one’s figure. . . unless properly tailored.”

“Would that be possible,” I asked, “and, if so, what would be involved?”

“Possible? Why yes, and I believe even within your budget. It would involve taking detailed measurements today. I shall then need a full day for my assistant and I to prepare the robe for your first fitting. To adjust the garment for a subsequent final fitting may take an hour; or it may take another day. It depends on how far off we are after the first fitting.”

“But I have nothing to wear in the interim,” I protested.

She nodded understandingly. “Buffy, as I expect to completely drain your limited funds, the least I can do is loan you something to wear until we have completed your alterations. The garment I have in mind is beyond your budget and has been tried on by a number of other ladies. Though a lovely little dress that is suitable for a day about town, it has always been found wanting for being too small to fit any of my customers. I think it would fit you, however. Not perfectly, but certainly much better than what you have on. It goes without saying that I shall expect you to return it in undamaged condition.”

Dagail smiled encouragingly at me. “The blue bits on the mage robe do match your eyes, Buffy.”

“I accept the offer, Augustina," I stated, "and appreciate your flexibility.”

“Shall we begin then?” Without waiting for an answer, she turned and added, “Follow me to the fitting room.” As we wove our way toward the back of the shoppe and into an area partitioned off by folding screens she said in a raised voice, “Miranda!” then added quietly to Dagail and I, “That’s my assistant.”

“Yes, milady,” I heard in reply.

“Watch the front of the store. I’m in the fitting room with a customer.”

“As you wish,” was the response.

“Now, Buffy,” she said a bit awkwardly, “this robe has entirely too much extra fabric to try pinning in the excess while you’re wearing it. I’ll need to take careful and precise measurements of your figure without the garment.”

“You mean, drop the robe,” I said.

“Yes, if you don’t mind.”

I chuckled. “Having been found naked and unconscious by a guard and carried through town to the infirmary wrapped in nought but his surcoat, feigning modesty now seems rather pointless.” I dropped the robe.

Using the tape measure that had been draped around her neck, Augustina determined the distance from my shoulders to my ankles, then the length of each of my limbs, carefully recording her findings in a logbook. She then wrapped the tape measure around my neck, shoulders, bust, waist and hips. At last, she announced, “All finished.” She then looked me over appraisingly from head to toe with the professional eye of a clothier. “Buffy, you have a fine little figure and I look forward to seeing it showcased in a properly fitted robe.”

“Thank you, Augustina.” I could see and feel myself blushing.

“Now let me get that dress we’re going to loan you while your robe is being altered.” She then stepped out of the fitting room.

Dagail looked at me and frowned. “I’m still jealous of your waist, my friend.”

“Oh, stop it, Dagail,” I chided.

Augustina returned with a rather vibrant pink dress in her arms and helped me into it. Though not perfect, the fit was close enough. It was sleeveless and, while the dress itself was fine linen, it was tastefully trimmed with black silk.

I turned this way and that in front of the fitting room’s full-length mirror. “It’s a lovely dress, Augustina and seems to fit,” I looked down, “but its knee length certainly emphasizes my need for shoes.”

“Yes, follow me.” We wound through the shop into another good size area of shelves – filled with shoes. As I began to drift closer for a look, I felt Augustina’s hands on my shoulders as she gently changed my direction. “I’m afraid the only footwear I have that will fit you is on these two shelves here, where we keep children’s shoes.”

I frowned in response to Dagail’s snicker then focused on the shelves in question. After a few moments, I pointed and proclaimed, “I want these.”

One eyebrow lifted sharply as Augustina said, “Buffy, that’s the boy’s shelf and those buckskin moccasins would hardly look suitable with the lovely dress you are wearing. What about those girls’ black silk slippers on the next shelf over? They’ll pick up the trim on the dress perfectly and look fine with your robe as well.”

“I’ll only be wearing this dress for a couple days. I expect to get much more use from the shoes and my robe which will largely cover them anyway. There is much travel by horse in my future. Hunting, camping and even combat. In fact, before long, I expect to take a deer, process its hide and have a full set of buckskins made. If my robe ends up fitting as nicely as I suspect it will, I’ll certainly treasure wearing it when in town or at one the mages guild’s halls.”

“I’ve heard her called ‘the buckskin mage’ more than once,” offered Dagail.

Augustina looked at Dagail, then returned her gaze to me. “Well, Buffy, you’re the customer. You certainly sound like you know what you want. . . and I believe I can manage to work those moccasins into our arrangement. When added to the robe’s alteration, your budget will be completely exhausted though. Try them on to make sure they fit.”

I slipped the moccasins on. They did indeed look funny with the pink dress but were comfortable and fit perfectly. “Done,” I said and stuck out my hand.

Augustina wrapped hers around mine and replied. “I’m pleased we were able to come to an arrangement that we’re both satisfied with, Buffy. I’ll make sure your robe is ready for the first fitting by midday tomorrow. Regarding the matter of payment. . . .”

“Oh yes,” I replied. “What arrangements would you like?”

“You have my dress on loan and a new pair of shoes on your feet, but I have your robe. I propose half now and the other half once you are fully satisfied with how your robe turns out?”

“Dagail, would you give Augustina half my gold please?”

And we dive into the economics of shopping and clothing alteration! Interesting that short robes that show off the leg is common in 2E Tamriel, yet seem to be missing from 3E Tamriel. Wonder if there's a relationship between that and the Oblivion Crisis?

Some time in the intervening years, it was discovered that you don't get an arrow in the knee if your enemies don't know where they are. Accidents may still happen, mostly friendly fire from Stormtroopers.

So Auggie is going to fix Buffy up with a new fit. It sounds like she might be cut from a similar cloth as the two Altmer who run the clothing shop in Solitude. But not quite as obnoxious.

She was quite right about the goddess of storm and sky however!

So they just need to shrink her existing clothing? No problem, bring Buffy over to my place and I will put in the dryer for a few cycles. It will be a size 1 in no time at all...

Thankfully Augustina is like a auto repair shop, and gives out a loaner to her customers while she works under the hood.

Where is Mr. Blackwood and his remotes that take a person's measurements with lidar?

Of course Buffy wants the Buckskins! That is our bowgirl.

As we entered the clothing shoppe, a middle-aged Imperial looked up from her ledger, frowned at the baggy robe I wore and said, “Dagail, what on Nirn have you brought me?”

If you hadn't mentioned that it's Imperial in charge of the store, I would have thought that it's Taarie from Solitude, standing on the other side of the counter.

Nice remark about Kynareth.

“I’ve heard her called ‘the buckskin mage’ more than once,” offered Dagail.

Augustina looked at Dagail, then returned her gaze to me.

I just love Dagail and her remarks.

"The Goddess of Storm and Sky, Kynareth herself, must have been watching over you.”

How very right she is! Wow, her intuition is spot on.

Like tooth powder, you really go into details about sashes and hems and tailoring and measurments such. As though the author, himself, was once a tailor after his military career. Anyway, Buffy's funds may about to be drained, but she'll make it all back pretty soon once the adventures begin!

Whoa... pink 'tastefully trimmed' with black... Shoosh. I know you're not in the habit of posting pics...

Oh no, go for the moccasins. There. Now she's got the hipster look (in my mind). Just need some cat eye glasses and yeah.

Anyway, that's a fun episode.

Oh Augustina, if you only knew that Buffy has a magical trunk to fill! And she’s on a budget at the moment.

What a fun episode! I like Augustina’s manner. She has high standards and creative solutions.

And so Buffy gets her first pair of 2nd era shoes! That's a milestone worth celebrating!

Previously- Buffy and Dagail found their way to a clothier to upgrade Buffy’s apparel. Her budget required Buffy to accept an offer to have her robe tailored instead of purchasing a new outfit. She was able to buy a new pair of shoes however. They left the shoppe with Buffy in a pink loaner dress while her robe was being altered.

*

Rider- Long robes do seem problematic for dungeon delving, don't they?

ghastley- You may have something there! It wasn’t until mages wore short robes that ‘arrow to the knee’ became a thing. . . .

SubRosa- We’ll see Augustina’s not a bad sort, just initially taken aback at the overlarge robe Dagail had Buffy wrapped up in. Buffy will need help from the Mages Guild a couple times and, as a stranger in a strange land, she’ll find wearing a guild robe will help establish her creds. But you’re right; she’s gonna need buckskins for ‘venturing.

Lopov- Ironic indeed how Augustina credited Kynareth with Buffy surviving that ‘lightning strike’.

Renee- Oh my. In writing Buffy’s stories my research has oft taken me to where no man has gone before.

Grits- As a skilled clothier, I suppose it's natural that Augustina was taken aback by Buffy’s initial appearance. Buffy overcoming a less than ideal first impression is a trend we’ll see more of.



The midday was pleasant as Dagail and I shared a table on the sidewalk in front of a bustling tavern. “These mudcrab cakes are excellent,” I remarked between bites.

“So’s the wine, Buffy. I think we did well shopping. For what you’re getting done, the price was reasonable.”

“Good to hear, Dagail. As you can imagine, I’m not exactly current on the cost of living in Leyawiin.”

“Buffy, you mentioned traveling soon. I don’t want to see you go, but I’ll help prepare you for. . . whatever your quest might call for as best I can. As long as you promise to visit me.”

“Consider it promised, my friend. You’ve eased my. . . arrival more than you know.” I looked around at the numerous passersby. “This is not the venue, but I would very much like to discuss some of the details of my quest and ask your help in preparing for it.”

“After lunch,” she replied, “let’s head down to the guild’s training room where it’s quiet. I can also teach you that map spell and you might want to test your spells. You know, to make sure everything works after your trip.”

“Good Idea, Dagail.”

Once back in the guild hall, I started down the stairs when I heard Dagail’s voice behind me. “Go ahead on down and get started, Buffy. I think my flow has stopped and I want to go check.”

“Take your time,” I replied over my shoulder. The training room was downstairs, next to the room that contained the guild’s bath. The floor and walls were stone and the wooden ceiling was high. It was sparsely furnished and an ideal location to safely and discretely practice spells. I was anxious to ensure that the aspects of my magicks that I hoped would work here in the Second Era did indeed.

I summoned my storage trunk and opened it. The spell worked perfectly but as expected, the trunk itself was empty.

I then thought of Carsomyr and, by the time I closed the fingers of my right hand I was grasping the staff. I fired a bolt of magic into one of the targets on the far wall. Satisfied, I rippled out Kynareth’s Holy Light spells of healing, support and combat. They all worked perfectly.

My next efforts were simple conjuration spells to summon mundane everyday useful items such as a handkerchief, hunting knife, towel, hatchet and lute. I was pleased to see those spells had traveled with me.

“Good news, Buffy.” I turned to see Dagail dancing down the stairs. “I’m done, and I expect my cramps will be gone as well before that potion from this morning wears off.”

“That’s wonderful news,” I replied with a smile.

“How well did your spells make the trip?” she asked.

“As expected so far. I want to cast my find familiar spell next.” Before I could complete the spell, the magicka fizzled in my fingers. I knew that Kitsune would not be able to join me in the Second Era. “Farewell, dear little familiar. I shall miss you but I know you will return to the forest of your time. May sweet waters, cool shade and green grasses line your path.”

“You might visit one of the Cloud Dancer tribes, Buffy,” said Dagail softly. “They may be able to help.”

“Perhaps, though I now believe that perhaps my little fennec fox was meant to stay in her time.” I sniffed and tried to smile.

“What’s left, Buffy?”

“Only one more. I carry her spirit within me and already know she will answer the call. Superian, I need you.” The mare did indeed quickly materialize from the frosty haze that appeared in front of me. My arms flew around her neck as I inhaled deeply of her comforting scent.

“How beautiful, Buffy! It’s a blonde like you!” Dagail bent down a bit to glance at Superian’s underbits. “She’s a girl, right?”

I grinned, “She is indeed.”

“Oh, one thing you’ll find here,” she continued, “is that summoning and unsummoning mounts is quite common. In fact, I understand most stablemasters can teach the spell.”

“That’s welcome news and good to know, Dagail. The less attention she and I attract, the better.” I buried my face in Superian’s flowing white mane. “I shall not be able to ride you for a couple days, my precious mare. Not until I get my robe back. I’m afraid of what trying to mount and ride would do to this dress that I must return.” Acadian sensed my wishes and recalled the dragon mare to join him within me. I turned to face Dagail. “Even with the robe, I shall have to hike it up nearly to my you know what to ride properly. Another reason I favor buckskins. You mentioned a map spell?”

“Yes, I think you’ll find it helpful. Here, let me teach it to you. Conjure the symbolic flame of the mages guild, Buffy.”

The flame she referred to was infused into each mage as they joined the guild. Conjuring the symbol caused one’s hand to emit a soft blue flame that represented the eternal bond uniting mages of the guild. Perhaps more importantly, it allowed guild mages to readily identify themselves as members of the guild to guildmates and laymen alike should the need occur. As I summoned the symbol, Dagail did as well.

“Now, keeping our symbols summoned, let us clasp hands, then close our eyes.”

We did so and a small portion of Dagail’s magic passed from her to me.

“Open your eyes. You can dispel the symbol,” she said. “That’s it. Now try your new spell.”

I cast the new and unfamiliar magic and a large map materialized in front of me. It showed all of Tamriel, the borders of each province and a plethora of black wayshrine symbols. There was one white wayshrine symbol that I could see within the province of Black Marsh near a small blue mark.

“This spell is inspired by the magic of wayshrines, like the one you attuned yourself to yesterday,” she explained. “Unlike a wayshrine, you can’t use it to actually travel of course, but it can be really helpful for navigation. As you look over the map you should see a blue mark somewhere; that’s you!”

“I see it, Dagail. It’s in Black Marsh.”

“I see it too, Buffy. That’s another nice thing about this spell. When you have your map up, others can see it. Now reach out and touch any province that interests you.”

I touched Black Marsh. All the other provinces faded away and Black Marsh expanded to fill the map – in much greater detail. I could see settlements, ruins, numerous wayshrines and, much more clearly now, that I was in Leyawiin along with the one white wayshrine I was attuned to.

“Once you’re done looking at the province you’ve enlarged, simply touch that province again and the map will return to its original overview depiction of Tamriel. When you’re done with the map entirely, dispel it as you would any conjured item.”

I completed these last two instructions. “Given my anticipated need to travel, this spell is marvelous, Dagail. Thank you!”

She beamed. “You’re my friend, Buffy and it makes me feel good to help you. Oh, does that sound sappy? I don’t want to sound sappy.”

“You sound wonderful to me, Dagail.”

Apparently the mudcrab that Buffy and Dagail saw was not a horrible creature at all...

Time to head the the Danger Room! Things seem to be working as expected. But it is good to make sure of that before actually needing those spells and items.

Summoning and unsummoning mounts is a wonderful idea. I created a summon ghost horse spell in Skyrim for that. Now my characters can call up a horse when they want to travel fast, and let it vanish into aetherius when they no longer need it. If I could only that with my car IRL...

The map may not be the territory, but at least Buffy does at least have the map now. I am sure the territory will follow soon.

I am surprised about Kitsune. I thought that was an ESO creature used in Skyrim under artistic license.

No mention of the lack of clouds on the map?

So sorry to hear Kitsune didn't make the transition. However I've no doubt Buffy will encounter a similar creature to travel with her in 2E Tamriel. Perhaps one of the white Skyrim foxes?

Good to know our beloved palomino mare was able to make the transition along with Acadian and Phantom to 2E Tamriel. Even better to know that summoning and unsummoning horses and other mounts in this era is unremarkable, and no one will blink at Superian's abrupt comings and goings.

And a nice introduction to the map spell. Wonder if Buffy will also learn to dig for antiquities?

Summon Lute! That made me smile!

Aw, farewell, Kitsune. Trust Dagail to lighten the moment by checking out Superian’s undercarriage! How cool that summoning mounts is routine in the 2nd era.

That’s an excellent and sensible map spell. Jerric carries an enchanted map, but it has so many smudges and folds that it’s hard to tell which marks were made by him and which by his spilled beverages. Neat that anyone can see when Buffy has her map out. I can picture the two elven mages looking over all those wayshrines that can be turned from black to white!

Me too. I often find myself researching topics I'd never considered. Laprima and her architecture knowledge, for instance.

Nothing in the Trunk of Holding, yikes! But that is also good to know all the spells from her previous life (well...) are still intact in the Second Era.

Aw, no summoned fox. 🦊 But oh my gosh, Superian can be called. That's good to know. I wonder why one can be called but not the other. Maybe the horse has a stronger bond?

The magical map sounds awesome. I barely remember that feature of ESO.

At least mucrabs are good for something. Hopefully there weren't any pieces of their pincers in that cake.

Nice to see Superian, even if just for a little while.

That's a very handy map spell. Sort of GPS of the 2nd Era.

Previously- After enjoying a sidewalk tavern lunch, Buffy and Dagail retreated to the guild hall’s training room where Buffy confirmed that all of the spells she expected to travel with her to the Second Era did so – except her find familiar spell. Dagail then taught Buffy how to conjure a very helpful map.

*

SubRosa- In ESO, you whistle, your horse appears and you mount. As soon as you dismount, the horse disappears. This is a blessing/curse of multiplayer so you don’t have idle mounts all over. Convenient for keeping your mount out of combat but requires imagination when Buffy wants to camp with Superian for example. I was struck reading Stormcrow’s story how closely Jan and Blood Raven’s wayshrine/mapping system resembled what Buffy uses in ESO.

ghastley- Kitsune was tweaked in Skyrim from the game’s foxes. ESO has a wonderful fennec fox that Buffy used for a time in her game. For some time now though, she has used a different familiar that we’ll meet later in this book.

Rider- You’re right that Buffy will soon meet another familiar. I was delighted that ESO perfectly replicated Superian as a heavy palomino.

Grits- Buffy’s not a combat summoner but she’s pretty good with mundane items like that lute. It was fun to hint that Dagail is not exactly an equestrienne like Buffy.

Renee- You’re very right on the research to write Buffy, ranging from easing cramps to the history of bras to the care and feeding of horses and so many other topics. I think you’re right about Kitsune and Superian. Kitsune was simply a result of casting a find familiar spell in the 3rd Era. Buffy’s link to Superian goes way beyond that and was greatly strengthened when the spirits of Buffy’s mare and Acadian’s dragon were joined during Book 2.

Lopov- The navigation system in ESO almost does seem ‘high tech’ as you activate a wayshrine and ‘scroll’ through the imposing number of provinces.



“If we’re done spellcasting for now,” Dagail said, “I’d fancy a long hot bath. How ‘bout you?”

“Great idea.” I winked and added, "I haven't had one in centuries!"

The guild’s bath was next door to the training room and we wasted no time doffing our clothes – though I took extra care with the pink dress as I could ill afford to damage it. Underground hot springs supplied a constantly recirculating supply of water that filled the large sunken stone-walled tub. The stones had been placed to provide sitting ledges at a variety of heights. Though the tub was as deep as I was tall, I found a spot that was just the right height for me to sit and relax with my head above water.

Dagail, who sat on the other side of the tub facing me remarked, “Buffy. . . this feels familiar. Like we’ve both been right here, together like this. In this very tub. I hope my visions aren’t already beginning to claim my sanity.”

“Be at ease, Dagail, for we have indeed shared this very tub. . . or rather, will again depending on how you view time.” I closed my eyes, recalling when a much older Dagail and I sat across from each other in this tub, me seeking advice on whether I should try to become a paladin.

“Well, that’s a relief,” she said.

“Since we’re alone here, Dagail, I’d like to share some of what my quest for Kynareth involves and seek your advice on how best to proceed.”

Her face grew serious. “I’ve been waiting for you to do so.”

“Remember how I told you that Acadian died as a paladin of Kynareth during the Great Dragon war?”

She nodded. “Go on.”

“Well, to help increase the chances of defeating the mighty dragon Alduin and his hordes of dragons, Kynareth – she called herself Kyne at the time – created her own mighty ice dragon to carry her paladin, Acadian, and bring the battle to the dragons in the sky. Alas, both paladin and ice dragon fell to the overwhelming number of foes.”

“A fascinating piece of history, Buffy. . . but what kind of quest could be tied to something that happened back in the Merethic Era?”

“As I’m sure you can imagine, dragons are beings of immense power – both physical and magical. Especially so for one created by Kyne herself. Even after more than three thousand years, her frozen corpse retains significant magic. Presently, a powerful mage with ill intent has located the dragon’s corpse and is even now siphoning its power. Failure to stop this mage could have grave consequences. As I said, this dragon was created by Kyne and ridden by Acadian. Both of them feel a responsibility to the people of this time to put a stop to this evil mage.”

“You carry the spirit of Acadian,” said Dagail, picking up on where this was heading, “and you are a paladin of Kynareth so you feel this same obligation no doubt.”

“You’re not wrong, Dagail. Both Acadian and Kynareth are dear friends and stopping this mage is important to them. Therefore, it’s important to me.”

Dagail smiled, “And you, Buffy, have quickly become a dear friend of mine. Therefore, your quest is now important to me as well. How can I help?”

“I cannot thank you enough, Dagail, for your aid, discretion, friendship and willingness to help. This mage is known as Drodda the Icewitch. That is all I know of her.”

“The name is known to most guild mages, Buffy, as well as her tragic story. Promising young Nord with a gift for ice magic who joins the Mages Guild. Falls for the seduction of power and in the single-minded pursuit of it, casts off her humanity and abandons the guild. As far as her location, I don’t know anyone who’s aware of it. Might she be collocated with the corpse of your dragon?”

“Almost certainly," I replied, "for I can’t imagine the powerful magic Drodda is using could have much range. I carry the spirit of both Acadian and his dragon within me and we can feel the drain on her spirit even now. But alas, they died so long ago. It’s very likely that her corpse is in what is now Skyrim, but glaciers and blizzards have changed the land so much that even Kynareth is unable to discern a precise location.”

“As I recall,” said Dagail, “before Drodda left the guild entirely, she belonged to the Windhelm chapter. Someone there might be able to offer a clue as to where she may have gone.”

“Perhaps my first destination should be the Windhelm guildhall then.”

Dagail shook her head. “I think were an unknown Bosmer mage to show up in Windhelm asking questions it would not go well. That said, Drodda is considered dangerous enough, even without your dragon’s power, to have the interest of the Arch Mage himself. If he believes you might have the ability to defeat her, he’d likely offer his support to your quest. I bet that would net much better cooperation when you show up in Windhelm.”

I nodded. “I knew it was smart to ask your advice. How would I gain an audience with the Arch Mage?”

“I should think if you let it be known to someone who has his ear that you’re a member of the guild and paladin of Kynareth on a Divine quest to stop Drodda, that would get his attention. He travels a lot, but I just so happened to overhear our own Guildmagister, Adelle – she keeps herself quite attuned to guild politics – saying that Arch Mage Galerion will be visiting Elden Root soon. Something about the Aldmeri Dominion queen. . . or maybe it was the Bosmer who calls himself the king of Valenwood? I’m afraid I don’t really follow such matters. Thing is though, it looks like he’ll be there before a tenday has passed.”

“Then that would make a better first destination for me?” I asked.

“I think so,” she replied with a nod.

“Can I get there in time?”

“On your horse? Probably, but you’d have to leave straightaway – in your pink dress. You can get there instantly via wayshrine though. That way I can keep you here for a few more days.”

I frowned. “But I’m not attuned to any wayshrines except the one here in Leyawiin.”

“One way to get to a wayshrine you that you haven’t visited is to hold the hand of someone who is attuned to it and travel there with them.”

“Do you know someone who would do this for me?” I asked.

“Of course, silly. I’m familiar with several wayshrines in Valenwood and could do it in a pinch. But I have someone better in mind, and I think they’re in town. Someone who – unlike me – can hold up their end in a fight. You see, something tells me you’re going to need that kind of help to stop Drodda. I’ll introduce you tomorrow before your fitting with Augustina. Now, promise not to laugh when I climb out of this tub. I surely look like a wrinkled prune by now.”

“Why would I laugh when I’m sure I look the same?”

We both climbed out of the tub, looked at each other and laughed.

I lifted a fist and spilled magic that conjured a towel. Dagail did the same. Once dry, we combed out each other’s hair. Dagail then helped me back into Augustina's pink dress.

Assassin's Creed Odyssey had the same mechanic for your horse. You whistle and it shows up, and then when you dismount it sort of wanders off or vanishes. I never really noticed exactly what. But it definitely does not follow you around, or sit and wait where you left it. I found it very convenient. It is what led me to create the spell to summon a ghost horse in Skyrim, that disappears once the spell expires (but not so long as you are mounted).

I am definitely ready for a hot bath, especially after a long day of working in the spell mines.

I appreciated both Buffy and Dagail's observations concerning Deja Vu in the place where they have shared memories, or will share them. It brings home the inherently weird nature of time travel.

The backstory of how Acadian and Phantom served Kyne during the 1st war against Alduin was most appreciated. It fits seamlessly into the lore that Skyrim provided about how Kyne taught people to shout in order to oppose the dragons.

A funny thing is that I have been doing a Godzilla fest lately, going through every movie in order. I am on Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla and Tokyo SOS, which share the same continuity (a lot of them don't, and just ignore all or most of the other films). In them humans used the bones the Godzilla killed in the first movie as the skeleton of Mechagodzilla, which they built around them. So it is part machine, part corpse of Godzilla. They don't say it right out, but several characters equate it to essentially an act of unholy necromancy, and insist that they return the bones back to final resting place of the first Godzilla in the sea.

That reminds me quite a bit of what Drodda is doing here, trying to steal the power of a dead dragon for her own ends.

After hearing Drodda's story, I think I found a short video of her here...

Archmage Galerion? The Galerion? Wow! I am looking forward to meeting one of the most prestigious characters in TES history.

Ok, then it is to be wayshrine travel to Valenwood. Plus an introduction to a new character, who can hold their end up in a fight. My knowledge of 2nd Era people is limited. But I find myself hoping for the Titanborn woman - Lyris.

I'm guessing that the new character might turn out to be a companion. Will we get a "could you help me out with something first?"

And a late thought. Avoid going to Mages guilhalls where there are multiple Abnur Tharns. At least one of them will have a quest you don't want.

How exciting! Buffy is about to meet a new person who might (or might not) help her with her quest!

A couple of prunes after a hot bath sounds about right - I'd laugh, too, were I in that situation!

And Archmage Galerion is next on the visiting list - wonder if you'll depict him as querulous and self absorbed as I see him in ESO (sorry, SubRosa - there is some truth to the old adage never meet your heroes). Funny how that side of him doesn't get passed down to subsequent eras.

Looks like Buffy will be arriving in Windhelm around the time Lili is getting ready to depart ...

I didn't know that Acadian fell during the Great Dragon War, it's a valuable and interesting piece of information.

"Summon towel spell" - very useful for a wanderer like Buffy.

Hot springs, nice. Dagail and Buffy are engaging in shared memories, which are sort of timeless. Deja vu, in other words.

Which book did Acadian perish as a paladin? If you don't mind I'd like to read that part just to become familiar. Could you post a link? Hmm, Merethic. That's waaaaay back. Maybe that's not part of a Book, then. Or maybe that is Book 1.

Whoa, Drodda is siphoning power from a corpse.

Collocate! 3). (obsolete, transitive) To set or place; to station. ---- That's a new word for me! Seems #3 is the closest way the definition gets used. Drodda has stationed herself near the corpse.

She's going to Windhelm. Same location as Lilisfina, although much different Era.

“One way to get to a wayshrine you that you haven’t visited is to hold the hand of someone who is attuned to it and travel there with them.” -- That is soooo ESO!

Yeah, I agree with Dagail. Don't want Buffy to get in over her head (not a pun about her height). Seems this Drodda is going to take some know-how, first.

Previously- While Buffy and Dagail enjoyed a hot bath at the guild hall, Buffy shared the details of her quest to track down Drodda and stop the ice witch from siphoning the magic from the corpse of Acadian’s dragon. The two worked out that although Drodda's last known location was Windhelm, Buffy’s first destination should be Elden Root to solicit the Arch Mage’s support. Dagail also promised to introduce Buffy to someone who could help her navigate Tamriel and even fight if necessary.

*

SubRosa- It’s fun using Dagail as a touchpoint to the 3rd Era for Buffy – as long as she doesn’t think too hard about the time travel implications. Dagail paints Drodda as an ambitious mage consumed by power. That is true to a point, but as Buffy gets into tracking her down, she’ll learn there is quite a bit more to her story than the classic ‘evil big bad’. I’m afraid Lyris Titanborne will not serve as the steel in front of Buffy. That would indeed be the odd couple as Buffy the pocket healer only comes up to Lyris’ waist. Regarding Vanus Galerion, Buffy will learn that a brilliant vision doesn’t always come with a pleasant demeanor.

ghastley- Though we will stray from ESO in quite a few areas, the person Dagail will introduce her to does indeed exist in the game as a potential companion. There will be some preliminaries as the two evaluate each other.

Rider- Buffy will find Vanus Galerion a frustrating challenge to deal with and will indeed learn your lesson about the downside of meeting your heroes. I’m afraid Buffy will eventually find Windhelm every bit as bone-chillingly cold as has Lili.

Lopov- Despite the best efforts of Acadian and Phantom back in the Merethic Era, it still took Akatosh to intervene – and even then, only to cast Alduin a few Era’s into the future for some future Dragonborn to deal with. Buffy loves her collection of ‘summon mundane item’ spells.

Renee- Buffy and Acadian have existed together before their current ‘iteration’ and they have shared numerous lives. Acadian’s demise during the Great Dragon war occurred during their last life together. Buffy is only aware of this from what Acadian has told her, since each time they are reincarnated, he retains their memories but she does not. Later in this book Buffy will learn a bit more about the role she played during their time together back in the Merethic Era. Here’s a relevant snip from Episode 151 of Book One as Buffy and Acadian discuss the elf’s possible demise before entering the Kvatch Oblivion Gate with Savlian Matius:



The sunshine had finally burned through Leyawiin’s morning fog, the temperature was pleasant and birds were singing as we stood on the sidewalk. Dagail pointed to one of the outdoor tables that lined the front of a tavern across the street. “That’s her – the Dunmer.”

She was the first Dunmer I had seen Leyawiin and sat by herself wearing heavy armor. As Dagail took my hand and drew me closer, I could see the dark elf’s shield, short sword and guantlets resting on the chair beside her. Her equipment appeared to have seen plenty of use, but to be of good quality and well-maintained. The elf wore her chestnut hair pulled back into a loose plait that trailed a short way down her back. A bottle of wine sat on the table as she nursed the goblet in her hand.

“Good morning, Mirri!” chirped Dagail as we approached. “I brought a fellow mage I want you to meet.”

Mirri gave Dagail a pleasant smile, then her ruby eyes looked rather disapprovingly at me. “Good to see you Dagail, but who’s the little pink parchment princess?”

Both hands found their way to my hips as I gave her a smile that I’m sure did not reach my eyes. “Why, forgive me. I’m new in Leyawiin and did not realize that heavy armor, accessorized with sword and shield, was the fashionably appropriate attire to accompany a morning bottle of wine.”

Mirri bristled but Dagil jumped in before she could reply, “Stop it, both of you! I’m afraid you deserved that, Mirri, judging my friend here based on one cursory glance. How do you feel when Argonians make it clear with one look how much they dislike you simply because the Dunmer have enslaved many of them? That, despite the fact I know you and your family despise such practices? And, Buffy,” her stern look shifted to me, “I know you’re not happy wearing that prissy dress but your words carry an unhelpful sharpness.”

Mirri’s face softened noticeably, apparently somewhat convicted by Dagail’s words. I suspect mine did too, realizing I had perhaps overreacted.

Dagail continued, “Look, you two, I propose we start over, beginning with proper introductions.” She cleared her throat. “Dame Buffy, paladin of Kynareth, daughter of the Cloud Dancer Clan, skilled mage and gifted healer, I would like you to meet Mirri, House of Elendis, sell-shield extraordinaire, dungeon delver and world traveler.”

Mirri replied first, with a lifted eyebrow as she studied me from head to toe, “You don’t look like a knight, Dame Buffy, especially a holy one.”

“I get that a lot,” I replied, trying to match her neutral tone. “And just Buffy is fine if you please.”

“I must say though,” the Dunmer added with the hint of a smile, “you do have a quick wit and deliver a sharp bite.”

“Well, sorry about that,” I said with a shrug. “As Dagail said, I’m not real pleased having to wear this dress while the mage’s robe she gave me is being altered.”

Dagail injected, “Buffy was struck by lightning just a couple days ago as she arrived in Leyawiin, you see. All her belongings were zapped away but Kynareth spared her life.”

“I. . . regret my initial harsh tone and words, Buffy. Dagail is right; I know better than to judge someone prematurely. Book by its cover and all that. Sit?”

Dagail and I each pulled up a chair and joined Mirri at her table. “Mutually forgiven, I hope,” I said, offering a smile. “Dagail said you’re a sell-shield? I’m unfamiliar with the term.”

“Sell-shields,” Mirri began, “offer their services to protect those who venture into harm’s way. I suppose the term applies to me, though I prefer to think of myself as a guardian. I don’t sell my services; rather, I broker agreements with mages possessing adequate skills that complement mine. We then share such bounty that any mutually agreeable task might provide.”

“What do you bring to such partnerships and what type of skills do you seek from a companion?” I asked, intrigued.

“I’m quite specialized in commanding the attention of powerful foes and withstanding most any damage they can dish out, you see. The price I pay for such defensive focus is that the damage I can deal is meager. And as skilled at defense as I am, drawing the fully undivided ire of a powerful foe does result in times when I require healing in combat. Particularly if swarmed by minions as well. What I seek from those I partner with is the ability to deal significant damage and heal me in combat. Perhaps more importantly, I need a mage who will not freeze up. Or abandon me in a fight.”

“That seems a very effective concept, Mirri,” I replied. “I’m a combat healer. I can heal and support allies while boosting their damage and delivering a reasonable amount of my own. The price I pay is fighting in fear for my own life, as my defenses are limited and those I do possess distract from my ability to damage foes. The fact that I’m physically small and fragile compounds my limitations.”

“Buffy is on a quest for Kynareth,” said Dagail. “Her task will most certainly involve significant danger and take quite some time to prepare for and complete. Knowing you both, I thought introducing you to each other a good idea.” Her hopeful gaze shifted between Mirri and I.

“Thank you, Dagail,” I replied. “I value your wisdom.”

“As do I,” said Mirri. “Depending on the specifics of this quest and if Buffy can deliver on the skills she advertises, I would be interested.”

“There are details,” I said, “about both myself and my quest that must remain between Kynareth and I, but I will not keep secrets that could impact the success of my quest. I believe I possess the skills you require and assure you that I have never abandoned an ally during a fight and would die before doing so.”

Mirri studied me for some time over the rim of her wine goblet. Finally she spoke, “Dagail claims your quest might take some fair time to complete?”

I nodded.

“Since that’s the case,” she continued, “I propose we evaluate each other in action by completing a less ambitious endeavor in the local area. The Fighters Guild maintains a list of local tasks that might be appropriate. Should we complete such a limited undertaking and emerge mutually pleased with each other’s performance, extending our partnership to the more aggressive commitment required by your Divine quest might be in order. Oh, and if we agree to travel together I expect an equal split of any proceeds, loot, bounties or rewards. What say you, Buffy?”

Dagail gave me a nod of encouragement.

“What you suggest seems like a sound approach, Mirri,” I replied. “I agree.”

Mirri smiled and lifted the goblet to her lips. After lowering it again to the table she pointed to the bottle. “Join me?”

I shook my head as Dagail said, “You know what, I find it still a bit early for that. Buffy and I need to head for the clothier to check on her robe.”

“I’ll stop by the Fighters Guild later,” said Mirri, “and see if they have any tasks that might suit our purpose. I’ll contact you at the Mages Guild when I have something.”

*

Buffy’s prissy pink loaner dress.

I love Buffy's Pink Parchment Princess outfit!

And we are off to a great start with Mirri (with two 'r's). Naturally I looked her up on the UESP Wiki to have an idea of who she is.

Sell-Shield is a fantastic term for a bodyguard, as opposed to a Sell-Sword. The first implies protection, the latter attack.

Yes, I see that Mirri is your classic Tank. She needs a Healer and Crowd Control to balance out her abilities.

And a tentative alliance is struck. Besides the obvious gameyness to the idea of going on a minor quest first to evaluate one another, it does make good sense in the real world. It is much better than getting into the middle of something major and discovering that the person you are relying upon is unreliable. Either due to brashness, incompetence, or outright maliciousness. Or even just incompatible abilities.

Did you intend a comma after freeze? It makes sense both ways, but who is frozen changes.

If I were as much an oenophile as Mirri, I wouldn't have noticed.

Mirri shouldn't have judged Buffy by her pink clothes.

What may seem like a bad start, fortunately turned out into a pleasant conversation.

Buffy looks great in her dress!

At first I misread Sell-Shield for a Spell-Shield, I agree with SubRosa that it's a great term.

Mirri! I had been thinking Bastian, but Mirri is ultimately a much better choice. She does have a dry sense of humor which I enjoy from time to time. I play her as a DPS (Isobel is my tank), but I know from others that Mirri makes for a pretty good tank herself, and I'm glad Tank Mirri is the one that will be accompanying Buffy in the days/weeks/months to come!

And their initial tentative agreement reminds me so much of how Lili approached Stenvar - the Winter War was as much a test of his abilities as it was a trial run of their teamwork. I look forward to how Mirri and Buffy work things out between themselves.

Mirri! I nearly spit out my tea at “morning bottle of wine.”

It makes perfect sense to go on a smaller job before committing to what could become a long-term partnership. I had to chuckle when Mirri suggested the Fighters Guild.

Great picture of Buffy in Leyawiin! She may not be a fan of her prissy dress, but she sure looks pretty in it.

Previously- Dagail introduced Buffy to a Dunmeri sell-shield named Mirri. After a rough introduction that was greatly smoothed by Dagail, it was agreed that the skills possessed by sell-shield and combat healer might indeed complement each other well. Mirri agreed to stop by the Fighters Guild and obtain a local task that she and Buffy might use to mutually evaluate each other before potentially committing to the greater time and dangers involved with Buffy’s Divine quest. The meeting concluded as Buffy and Dagail headed for the clothier to check on Buffy’s mage robe alterations.

*

SubRosa- Thanks for endorsing the sell-shield term we came up with. As Kynareth suggested, and Dagail realizes, a sturdy warrior to help Buffy is just what she needs. It seemed a bridge too far for Buffy and Mirri to simply join up and become pals knowing so little about each other. The task to evaluate each other in action will be both local and straightforward but should give the ladies enough to decide whether advancing a partnership is warranted.

ghastley- Thanks for pointing out that missing comma. I see you noticed that Mirri enjoys her wine; we’ll be able to use that funny oenophile word in a few more episodes.

Lopov- Mirri will become an important, enduring character and I wanted to leave lots of room for their relationship to grow over time. I view their rough start as an opportunity where Dagail, once again, shows she has the right stuff when it comes to managing people to eventually become Guildmagister in Leyawiin.

Rider- Mirri indeed! Our decision was based on several factors. First, the two get along well in game. Second, as you know, Buffy likes to drop her clothes at every stream and waterfall and finds traveling with another women a bit more comfortable in that regard. Finally, even though Buffy is a paladin and will step up when required, she prefers being a sidekick over a leader and Mirri seems the most mature and worldly of the companions, and a good choice to teach Buffy how things work in the Second Era.

Grits- Thank you! I promise that even though their trial task will be for the Fighters Guild, it will not involve clearing rats from someone’s basement.




Augustina slowly circled, inspecting her alterations before announcing, “An excellent initial fit, Buffy. I thought about some of the. . . more boisterous activities you indicated might be in this robe’s future and took the liberty of splitting the right side almost to your hip and disguising the modification with overlapping fabric.” She pointed at a nearby straight chair. “Try straddling that.”

I approached the chair, but instead of turning around to sit, I grasped the top of its back and straddled the seat. Sure enough, the side of the robe’s skirt opened to allow the maneuver.

“I believe it to be a good compromise,” remarked Augustina. "The robe looks quite normal and, while not ideal, should allow you to mount a horse.”

I stood, and the side area of the skirt fell neatly back into position with no evidence of the split. “This is marvelous, Augustina! You can barely tell it’s there until I try to straddle something.”

“Thank you,” the tailor replied. “As I said, it’s a compromise and you may want to be mindful of the view you give those around you as you mount your horse. Or if you need to sprint on foot.”

“A fine compromise it is, I think. Thank you.” I raised my hands and twirled in front of her. “So how much remains before it is finished?”

“I’m very pleased at this point. It is certainly close enough that we’re now able to use pins to help us with the final adjustments. Hold still.” She proceeded to fold or tuck a bit here and there while inserting numerous pins to hold her adjustments in place. “I think I can have it ready before I close today. Here, let me have the robe. My assistant and I will get right to work.”

I slipped off the robe, handed it to her and redonned the pink dress. “As pretty and nice as this dress may be, Augustina, it’s probably not one I would choose for myself and I’ll be glad to trade it for my robe. We’ll be back before the sun dips below the city walls this afternoon.”

*

We enjoyed a late lunch inside yet another tavern. “This venison stew reminds me of home, Dagail, and is quite good.”

“So is the grilled salmon,” she replied. “Here, want some?”

We traded bites, agreeing with each other’s assessment.

“Mirri is an interesting elf, is she not?” I asked.

“She is indeed,” replied Dagail. “I think she’s been to just about every part of Tamriel. She can be prickly when you first meet her, but she’s quite clever and no nonsense when it comes to what she does. And if she agrees to travel with you, she’ll stand between you and danger without hesitation.”

“Well that’s encouraging. I hope we fight well together.”

“Though you two got off to a bit of a rough start, Buffy, I think you’ll get on well. She’d never admit it, but Mirri has quite a noble heart and never shirks a commitment once she makes it. And I’m quite sure she’s familiar with wayshrines at or near Elden Root.”

Once done with lunch, we continued to chat while wandering the city. We stopped to sit by a beautiful fountain, watching the numerous carp. Their scales occasionally caught the afternoon sun and sparkled in a variety of black, white, red and golden hues. Occasionally, one of them would break the surface to snatch a dragonfly that flew too close in search of a drink.

When the sun had sunk low enough, we returned to the clothing shoppe. Once into my robe again, Augustina absolutely beamed as she surveyed her handiwork. “Every bit what I had hoped for, Buffy. This robe now splendidly showcases your petite elven physique and delicately refined features.”

“It certainly fits well and follows my form,” I admitted. “I like that its length now falls to the tops of my moccasins instead of almost brushing the floor like most robes do.”

“Yes,” she replied, “I think you’ll find that the hem area will stay much cleaner at that length. May I take it that you’re satisfied with how I’m sending you out of here?”

“I certainly am,” I said with a smile. “Dagail, would you please give Augustina what we owe her?”

Dagail opened her coin purse and counted out what remained of my gold.

*

There was a knock on the door of the room Dagail and I were sharing on the guild’s upper floor. The door then opened to reveal one of the chapter’s mages, Nuzak.

“Dagail, there’s some Dunmer in the lobby. Says she’s looking for Buffy? She’s armored and weaponed up. Want me to get rid of her?”

“No,” replied Dagail. “Thanks, Nuzak. Buffy and I will go down and meet her.”

“Suit yourselves.”

Sure enough, Mirri was waiting in the lobby. I said, “How about we head down to the training room for a bit of privacy?”

Both ladies nodded and Dagail led the way. There were several simple chairs along the wall. Dagail and Mirri each sat. I pulled one of the chairs out, spun it around and straddled it, resting my arms on the top of the chair’s back. Dagail, giggled, “I see you quite like that split Augustina put in the side of your robe.”

I suppressed a grin, not wanting Dagail and I to appear too much like young, giggly girls in front of our guest. Instead, I turned to Mirri. “Nice to see you, again. What news do you bring?”

“I have accepted a job for us from the Fighters Guild,” she began. “There’s a powerful minotaur named Druvaakh the Smasher who lairs in a nearby cave known as Undertow Cavern. Minotaurs are known to be territorial and this beast has always been content to endanger only those who enter his lair. Indeed, over the years, he’s probably claimed many bandits seeking shelter in his cave.”

“How is this a problem?” I asked.

“I’m getting there, Buffy. His presence so close to Leyawiin has been tolerated as long as he claimed only those who entered Undertow Cavern, the entrance to which has long been posted with signs of warning for the unwary. Recently however, he has expanded what he considers his territory to include attacking passersby along the road between the cave and Leyawiin. Locals, travelers and several traders who help supply the city merchants have been killed by this minotaur. The Ivory Brigade is thinly spread with a multitude of other tasks. Leyawiin’s Countess has contracted the Fighters Guild to eliminate this threat, requiring delivery of one of the beast’s unmistakably large horns as proof of the deed.”

“I see,” I said. “How soon do you want us to depart for this cave?”

“I can leave on very short notice,” Mirri answered, “but we don’t need to overly rush any preparations you may need.”

“I’m anxious to proceed,” I said, “for my larger quest awaits.” I glanced at Dagail. “I believe I can be ready to go tomorrow morning if that’s acceptable.”

Dagail, nodded her support.

“I’m pleased to hear that,” replied Mirri. “I’ll collect you tomorrow shortly after sunrise then.”

*

Buffy's tailored guild robe

That was very clever of AuggieTina to accommodate for Buffy's more boisterous activities. I loved her chair straddling maneuver. It reminds me of the inventive ways in which Commander Riker would sit down in chairs in The Next Generation - aka the Riker Maneuver.

Venison stew, grilled salmon? I love this restaurant already!

An armed and armored Dunmer waiting for Buffy in the lobby? That sounds like its either going to be a fight or a great date!

We have a quest! A malevolent minotaur must needs be made into mincemeat. And the Buff & Mirr combo are the ones to make it happen.

I hope there will be no misunderstandings with the torchbugs in Undertow Cavern.

I don't imagine anyone will confuse one with a minotaur, but you never know.

Wow, that's intense, those patterns of incarnations and reincarnations. One of you remembers all, the other always forgets. Does this mean Buffy must be reeducated each time about her ephemeral partner? Phew, Buffy's getting ornery at Acadian in Book One!

“I don’t remember any of that.”

“Nor would you, Buffy. Your memories begin anew with each form we take

Okay, that seems to answer my question above.

"Pink parchment Princess!" And then Dagail reprimands your elf! Hey, I'm on Buffy's side on this one! How dare Mirri make fun of pink! ---- Unhelpful sharpness, bah! Go for it, fragile Elf!!!

Whoa, there she is, wearing the dress! Ah, wow. That just made my morning, Acadian! In fact it's not so prissy at all. I was expecting something frilly & frivolous.

A minotaur, COOL! Our frail elf has dealt with many of those... Interesting that Undertow Cavern also appears in the Second Era. Place has quite a history of miscreant inhabitants.

Nice! Another picture.


Personal note: I hope nobody within your circle was affected by that wretched Tesla Cyberbomb, Acadian.

I quite agree - Mirri is the most sensible and mature of all the companions so far (well, except maybe for Zerith and Sharps, but that's another story). My ESO toon (and original Skyrim character) Alise Sudmeri loves Mirri - they are so alike they could be twins from different mothers! Mirri does ranged while Alise does melee - and it all works out well. Sadly, no one in my crew so far likes Bas - he's the orphan of them all.

Anyways, a Minotaur is a good start! I missed those from the Oblivion game and was glad to see them again in the Gold Coast DLC, and now the more Cyrodiil centric content. It will be interesting to see how the pair makes out fighting such a massive opponent within the twisty confines of Undertow.

Oh, and Renee, I'm with Mirri there. Pink is not a suitable color for a warrior, even a steel butterfly like our Buffy.

Buffy looks great in her tailored robe as well but I personally prefer the pink dress.

They were eating good in the 2nd Era.

Buffy & Mirri against the furious minotaur!

Previously- Buffy’s first fitting went well enough that the clothier was able to use pins to prepare for a final fitting, and she promised the guild robe alterations would be complete by day’s end. Buffy and Dagail spent the afternoon enjoying a late lunch and some of the sights of Leyawiin before picking up the finished robe. That evening, Mirri found the two Bosmer at the Mages Guild and explained the task she had accepted from the Fighters Guild – to eliminate a dangerous minotaur in a nearby cave. Mirri and Buffy agreed to leave early the following morning.

*

SubRosa- Riker Maneuver – I think we’ve got her robe set to ride now; sneaking through a dungeon may be another problem. Despite the fact that Mirri generally partners with mages, I imagine she’s an unusual sight in a typical mages guildhall.

ghastley- I promise you, no torchbugs were harmed in the writing of this book.

Renee- Glad that excerpt helped, though I admit the relationship between Buffy and Acadian is complicated. I agree that Mirri was more the initial problem than Buffy when they met; Dagail, however, was wise enough to choose just the right words to calm them both down.

Rider- Another Mirri fan! I know that mALX also prefers Mirri over the other companions. Happily, when properly set up, Mirri does pretty well as a tank.

Lopov- I agree the pink dress does look nice. We dyed it just for that picture. Usually Buffy has it dyed forest green or sometimes as a ‘little black dress’.



Once outside the city gates, I summoned and mounted Superian - thankful for the split Augustina had crafted into my robe. I was pleased to see Mirri summon her own gray gelding and mount up as well. The gelding sidled closer to Superian, curious about my mare. Superian returned the attention as the two horses seemed quite at ease together. “My mare is Superian; what’s your gelding called?”

“His name is Gray. Unimaginative, I know, but it suits him. Good that they seem to accept each other.”

We discussed tactics and mutual expectations during our short ride to Undertow Cavern. I gave Mirri a good summary of what my staff and spells could – and could not – do. She sounded quite experienced at working as a duo paired with a mage. She explained that among sell-shields, my support spells that healed over time, boosted defense or improved damage were called ‘buffs’.

“Makes sense,” I remarked. Then added with a grin, “Even named after me – sort of.”

Mirri chuckled, then explained her own skills and equipment. She possessed but one spell. It channeled magicka through her shield that would almost instantly propel her – shield first – into a chosen target. She called her spell a ‘gap closer’. Her short sword carried a ‘taunt’ enchantment that would cause whatever foe it struck to focus its attacks exclusively on her. The shield on her back was enchanted to repel damage. The components of her plate and mail panoply had been spelled to reduce their weight, and the cloth doublet she wore beneath her armor magically dispelled the buildup of body heat.

As we arrived at the vine-shrouded entrance to Undertow Cavern, we dismounted and unsummoned the horses.

“Ready?” asked Mirri.

I nodded and we slipped into the cave. The floor and walls were wet and there was the sound of dripping water. The still air held the scents of various fungi and animals. Gaps in the ceiling emitted enough slender beams of sunshine to provide adequate illumination.

“Let me take the lead if you please, Buffy,” Mirri said quietly. “I suggest we focus on finding and killing our prey, then we can give the place a more careful look for any items of value on the way out.”

“I’m right behind you,” I said.

Mirri slid the shield from her back and drew her blade.

I filled my hand with Carsomyr and we stealthily proceeded. I was impressed with how quietly Mirri moved, given the mail and plate that comprised her armor. I was not so impressed with my own ability to sneak wearing a robe and the attention it required to avoid tripping.

I knew minotaurs were generally solitary creatures and the cave was quiet as we crept through its passages. We saw a few torchbugs and mudcrabs. The former were harmless of course and the latter were not aggressive unless provoked. As we cleared a corner, however, we surprised a group of goblins – who immediately attacked. Mirri deftly dispatched the first two that came within her blade’s range, shield bashing one and beheading the other.

As she did so, I cast Blazing Spear into the ground within their midst. The resultant burst of shards interrupted the shaman as she tried to cast her own spell while also immobilizing and damaging the remaining goblins. A second Blazing Spear killed what remained of the group.

Mirri turned to me with a nod of approval. “Nicely done. These little fetchers will eat anything. I expect the minotaur tolerates them to clean up the scraps and bones of his prey.”

I recalled that, unlike their bovine cousins, minotaurs were omnivorous. A fair number of gnawed bones, as well as a few scraps of shredded clothing, did indeed litter the floor of the cave.

Finally, the narrow passageways we had followed opened to a large cavern. There were more gaps and cracks in the high ceiling here, some even trailed vines and roots beneath them. More importantly though, the beams of sunshine that had only adequately lit our way so far provided quite a bit more light. We crouched at the threshold of the cavern and could clearly see our target. As he squatted over a meal of I didn’t want to know what – or who – I could see Druvaakh the Smasher was almost twice the size of any minotaur I had ever seen.

“Good,” whispered Mirri. “He doesn’t know we’re here yet so we can open the fight on our terms.”

“I suspect my Blazing Spear spell will not immobilize him,” I cautioned.

“Not to worry, Buffy, that’s my job. Let me gain his full attention before you attack. Ready?”

I nodded.

With that, Mirri stood from her crouch, and purposefully walked toward the minotaur. I let her get about two horse lengths ahead of me then stealthily followed.

Presently, the beast saw Mirri boldly approaching and stood to his full height. He thumped both fists against his broad chest and issued a roar of challenge that dislodged a light shower of dirt and pebbles from the cavern’s ceiling.

“Tusk off, you horned fetcher!” yelled Mirri as she loudly struck sword against shield one time.

I had no idea if the beast understood Mirri’s words, but there was no doubt he took her meaning for, with another roar, he charged.

Mirri broke into a run straight toward the speeding mountain of Minotaur. I stealthily continued behind her, slightly off to one side.

With about three horse lengths between them, Mirri’s shield illuminated and she was instantly propelled – shield first – into the chest of her foe.

The collision stopped and slightly staggered the minotaur. Mirri bounced off the beast but landed squarely on her feet.

I branded the stone floor at my feet with my Cleansing Ritual, and its protective radius encompassed most of the cavern. I then cast Blazing Spear into the ground at Druvaakh’s hooves.

Before the monster could fully recover from the impact of Mirri's shield, her blade glowed and she delivered a vicious slash across the beast’s belly. She then circled partially around our foe as he maneuvered to face her. I realized she had intentionally turned him away from me.

Though my Blazing Spear did not immobilize the minotaur, it did notable damage. I then alternated between Blazing Spear and heavy attacks from Carsomyr.

Mirri skillfully blocked each blow of the mighty minotaur’s fists, jabbing or slashing when she could.

With Druvaakh’s ire fully focused upon Mirri, I was able to attack with impunity while keeping an eye on her health. By now the minotaur's breathing was rasping and labored, and his movements were slower. I cast Radiant Glory. The beam of pure Holy Light had a devastating effect and Druvaakh quickly fell – even before I needed to refresh my ‘buff’ spell.

Not taking any chances, Mirri stood over him and, with a deft slash of her blade, laid open his throat. Even then, she watched for a few more seconds to ensure he was dead.

She looked at me, then down at herself. “Why are our arms purple?”

I replied, “That means our damage is being boosted. The healing from my Cleansing Ritual on the ground around us is causing it right now, but it happens whenever I heal us.” Momentarily my ritual faded and, a few seconds later, our arms lost their lavender glow.

We then stared at each other for a time, finally exchanging nods of mutual respect.

Mirri said, “I’ve seen enough. . . partner.”

“The feeling’s mutual,” I replied.

Mirri then set about the gruesome task of severing both giant horns from the minotaur’s head. “We need one to turn in for the reward. The other will sell for a hefty profit.” She then hoisted one over her shoulder and grunted. “This fetching thing is heavy! We may have to make two trips.”

“I think I can help,” I said as I conjured my storage trunk and opened it. “Place them in here. Trust me, they’ll fit.”

Mirri looked skeptical, but as she muscled first one then the other horn into the trunk, it easily swallowed them both.

“See?” I said as I dismissed the trunk.

“A relief not having to carry those things.” She looked at me. “That chest of yours is impressive.”

I nearly sputtered, but managed to say with a straight face, “Now that’s truly the first time anyone has ever said that to me.”

Mirri burst into a full-throated laugh. “And a sense of humor as keen as your wit. How about we check for anything valuable as we make our way out of here?”

I nodded and activated my glowing aura of Divine light. While it did signify that I was a paladin, it also illuminated me enough to serve as a light source for both of us as we proceeded to search for anything valuable in the now clear dungeon. Although the minotaur’s treasure consisted largely of skulls and bones from hapless victims, it seems he had a taste for shiny trinkets as well, for we were able to recover numerous gold coins and several valuable gems.

Once outside the dungeon, I dispelled my holy glow.

*
Screenshot: Buffy and Mirri enroute to Undertow Cavern

Gap Closer sounds intense.

Ah Here we go... Book 4's first Dungeon Dive! Buff should be right at home. What I'm curious about is how Mirri your elf will interact? Will their different styles conflict or compliment?

Mudcrabs in the Second Era, disgusting creatures! 🦀 Goblins, bleaaagh!! I hope I never see another.

Nice job with the Blazing Spear!

We crouched at the threshold of the cavern and could clearly see our target. As he squatted over a meal of I didn’t want to know what

I agree. Bleagh! --- Yeesh, she Gap Closes right into the giant beast.

Buffy's magic does indeed compliment Mirri's physical attacks. Like a dance.

Love the screenshot at the end. Will Imgur allow me to save that? Yes it did. Wallpaper!

If only ... None of my Mirri's has ever done that.

I like the way you've blurred what is a class or skill line ability and what is an enchantment. I always have problems in FF with narrating how suddenly a character has a new skill, and "Oh, I just got a thing that does that for me" has a lot of potential. Especially if it's followed by "and I learned how to do it myself" after a while.

Kothet was mystified by Zahra's level-ups, but he could blame daedric intervention for anything.

Off to Undertow Cavern. I only know it from Oblivion, and its Black Bow Bandits. So I have no idea what might be waiting for Buffy and Mirri in its depths.

Buffy has buffs.

I like Mirri's charging attack. It lets her get up into things right off the bat. That must be disconcerting for opposing archers or crowd control mages to deal with. Her other talents likewise clearly set her as the party tank and damage sponge. I am guessing that she went to the Rocky Balboa school of fighting, and that she might wear her opponents down by letting them hit her repeatedly. It worked for Ali against Foreman after all.

Goblins. Disgusting creatures. I avoid them when possible. Nice to hear that mudcrabs are not all automatically hostile in the 2nd Era. It always seemed odd to me that they were basically kamikaze crustaceans in Oblivion, attacking every adventurer who drew near.

In any case, some solid crowd control by Buffy.

I loved Mirri's "Tusk Off!" curse.

And some solid teamwork by Buffy and Mirri, or Burri for short. Mage + Fighter is always a potent combo. Purple arms and all.

I think that might be the first time anyone has complimented Buffy upon her expansive chest...

I remember the Undertow Cavern from Cyrodiil but some quick googling revealied that the minotaur in question is one of the so called bosses.

Well done, Mirri and Buffy!

I like this story a lot, it has a high pace and it`s nice to read about some combat.

Her short sword carried a ‘taunt’ enchantment that would cause whatever foe it struck to focus its attacks exclusively on her

That sounds very useful as long as Mirri has someone to back her up. Which she does. And even someone with a great chest!

I really enjoyed reading Burri's adventures in Undertow Cavern. It must have been thoroughly plundered by the late 3rd Era since I do not recall so many treasures/trinkets laying around. Julian was certainly surprised by the amount of shinies in 2E Undertow!

Looks like we have a partnership now. Always good to have someone strong enough to take punishment from the big bads.

I remember Phae playing with Gap Closer when she was first starting out - she loved it. Was sad to lose it when we switched from S&B to dual wield.

And now it looks like Buffy has enough coin to go shopping - for real! More shoes, perhaps?

She looked at me. “That chest of yours is impressive.”

*spits tea*

What a great picture of Buffy and Mirri on their horses!

I love how seamlessly game mechanics weave through the story. That was a fun fight and a great showcase of shield and mage working together. Buffy’s “horselength” unit of measurement makes me smile!

To see a bag-of-holding in use for the first time would be an impressive sight, I imagine.

Previously- Mirri and Buffy rode to Undertow Cavern to evaluate their ability to fight together and dispatch a troublesome minotaur. It seems the pair is well matched as Mirri was able to hold the attention of their enemies while Buffy’s staff and spells kept the duo healthy and delivered enough damage to slay their foes.

*

Renee- The dungeon dive was a simple one but enough, I think, for the two ladies to realize that, together, they harness pretty good synergy. Buffy’s always done better as part of a duo where she can stand behind a Xena and play Gabriel.

ghastley- Mirri does a great job holding taunt, blocking and interrupting a boss. In game, it’s actually Buffy who positions to be away from the business end of a boss.

SubRosa- It’s awkward but I decided to use some of the MMO terms like buffs, taunt, gap-closer. . . although ‘tank’ would be a bridge too far. Yes, Mirri uses Rocky Balboa tactics but, like Stormcrow, she’s smart enough to wear some good armor. Oh, and Mirri has the advantage of having a handy pocket healer.

Lopov- This delve, of course, was for the two women to evaluate each other in action. They’ll do another small dungeon a bit later in the book to fill their coin purses. Late in the book will be a pretty good dungeon crawl to get to the ice witch and take her on.

Rider- SubRosa suggested ‘Burri’. . . I had been thinking perhaps ‘Muffy’? Buffy tripping over her robe while trying to sneak gives a pretty good clue as to what she needs to go shopping for. . . .

Grits- Heh, I couldn’t resist the ‘impressive chest’ joke. Being an equestrienne horse-crazy elf, Buffy tends to measure shorter distances in hands and horse lengths.

macole- Magic is such a wonderful thing, and a bag of holding is pretty high on the list of why. I fell in love with the idea when first exposed to it in Baldur’s Gate.





During the short ride back to Leyawiin, Mirri commented, “It’s only midday. There’s plenty of time to collect our bounty, sell that second horn along with those gems and divide up our gold.”

“Sounds great,” I replied. “A pair of gold coins would be two more than I have now.”

She smiled and after a few quiet moments added, “Buffy, I meant what I said back in the cave. I could feel your continuous healing and shielding. Even my blade dealt more damage. Your staff and spells made quick work of our foes. I’m willing to enter into a longer partnership and lend my assistance to your quest. What say you?”

“I meant what I said too, Mirri. When Dagail told me you would stand between me and danger, she spoke truly. Druvaakh never even gave me a glance. I’d be pleased for us to travel together.”

Riding side by side, we reached out and gripped each other’s forearms in a warrior’s clasp.

Once back in Leyawiin, the resultant gold from our brief but dangerous morning was enough for me to not only buy a coin purse but to fill it up quite handily.

“You really lost all your belongings?” asked Mirri. “Everything?”

I nodded. “Right down to my skin.”

“What are going to buy with your newly acquired gold?”

“Though I’m impressed with how well Dagail’s clothier altered this robe, I’d really like to add something more practical to my tiny wardrobe. Sneaking and fighting in a robe is. . . challenging.”

“You know, Buffy, there’s a fine armorer in town here. If I recall I think he also carries adventure wear in both cloth and leather.”

“Could you show me where that is?” I asked.

“Certainly, after all, my partner needs something more practical than a prissy pink dress or even a tailored robe.”

I grinned. “Lead the way.”

Once Mirri escorted me to the shoppe in question, she said, “Well, I need to bang the dents out of my own armor and clean the minotaur innards off everything. I’ll leave you now. Give my regards to Dagail. How about you join me tomorrow morning at the same tavern where we met and we can discuss our next steps regarding your quest?

“Great idea, Mirri. I’ll see you then.”

I spent the next several hours in the armor shoppe before my mage robe and moccasins were stowed in my storage trunk and my coin purse was noticeably lighter. I was, however, the proud owner of a new outfit. I counted myself fortunate indeed that the armorer happened to have something that would not only serve my needs but was small enough that only minor on-the-spot alterations had been required. The tunic fell to just below my hips and had long sleeves. It was of forest green silk with buckskin reinforcing several areas, trimmed with the fur of a gray wolf and cinched at the waist with a buckskin belt. My new breeches and boots were of buckskin as well. On the way back to the guildhall, I stopped at Augustina’s clothing shoppe in search of a gift for Dagail.

*

Dagail slowly circled, evaluating my new outfit as I told her about the success Mirri and I had enjoyed. “This quite suits you, Buffy. Forest green and buckskin are certainly your colors.”

I chuckled. “Well, I don’t fancy trying to sneak through another dungeon wearing a mage robe. I had to pay almost as much attention to not tripping over my hem as I did to the denizens of Undertow Cavern.”

“Since the quarry you seek is a spellcaster, Buffy, I think you’re wise to hold on to your guild robe. As an unknown mage, wearing it when you interact with other guild members will likely net you better cooperation than buckskins.”

I nodded. “Until better known in the guild, sounds like I’d be wise to follow the old adage, ‘When in the Imperial City, do as the Imperials.’ Oh, and thanks again for realizing that Mirri does indeed seem to be a good companion for what lies ahead of me.”

“I’m so glad my instincts may have been right on that, Buffy.”

In response to my inquiry as we shared a dinner at the guild hall, Dagail explained how she earned her own income from crafting and selling scrolls that could cast simple, practical conjuration and alteration spells. In fact, after dinner, she taught me several of the spells that powered her scrolls. She then showed me a few more tricks to using my magical map effectively.

We then headed upstairs and chatted late into the night about all kinds of things, including my plans to meet with Mirri in the morning. Dagail told me she had some shopping of her own planned.

*

Mirri lowered her wine goblet the next morning. “So, we travel to Elden Root, coax support for your quest out of the Arch Mage - Vanus Galerion. We then head to the Windhelm Mages Guild to try and ferret out clues about the location of this ice witch who is siphoning residual magic from the corpse of Kynareth’s ice dragon. Finally, we proceed to wherever she is and stop her. Does that about sum it up?”

I chuckled at her succinct description as I smoothed the skirt of my guild robe. “Yes, you have the right of it, Mirri. Dagail suggested you were attuned to a great number of wayshrines?”

Mirri nodded. “I think you’ll find I can get us most anywhere we might need to go.”

“Would you be ready to leave for Elden Root soon?” I asked.

She looked over her armor, weapon and shield in between sips of wine. “My saddlebags are upstairs in the tavern here. I don’t need much notice at all to collect them and be ready.”

"I’d like to spend the night with Dagail and say my goodbyes to her. How about early tomorrow after you’ve had time to break your fast?”

“I’ll collect you tomorrow morning at your guildhall then.” She tilted her goblet toward me and lifted one eyebrow. “Are you sure you don’t want some of this? It’s really quite good.”

“I do enjoy a small goblet now and again but can’t hold much.” I looked at the cup cradled in my hands. “I think I’ll stick with bergamot tea this morning.”

She nodded. “I’m rather an oenophile.”

I closed my eyes briefly, mentally scanning the countless books I had read while a student at the Arcane University and found the unusual word. “I’m not surprised, given how much you seem to be enjoying this bottle.”

“I’m impressed, Buffy. Rarely do I encounter someone who knows what that means.”

I shrugged. “I read a lot.”

“Really?” Her face lit up. "I love maps and old books. I can lose myself in a library or booksellers for days on end.”

“Something it seems we have in common,” I replied.

*

I was still struggling with my last round of painful goodbyes and here I was, in the throes of another. Dagail and I were both trying to restrain our tears. Finally, we just gave up and sobbed in each other’s arms for a time.

“I really do know this is what you must do, Buffy. And I’m so happy you'll have Mirri with you to help. It’s just that. . . being a seer tends to alienate friends, leaving me with few. It seems you’ve just gotten here and I’ve already grown very fond of you. It feels like we’ve known each other so long.”

“We have, Dagail. Centuries. I’m attuned to the wayshrine here and promised I’d visit you. I shall keep that promise. Oh, and I got something for you.” I summoned my magic trunk and produced a burgundy brocade gown – rather like the one I was used to seeing Dagail wear in the Third Era. “Augustina had this in just your size.”

Dagail sucked in her breath. “It’s beautiful!” Once we got her into it, she said, “I love how it feels. . . somehow familiar. I have something for you too, Buffy.” She reached under her pillow and produced a mage pouch. As she pressed it into my hands, she said, “This one’s enchanted with a spell of holding, like mine. I figured you could use it.”

My tears began again as I pulled her close. “You’re so very thoughtful. Thank you, dear friend.”

*

Screenshot: Buffy’s new adventuring outfit

Yes, exactly. Gabrielles can be fun to play as well as Xenas. In Skyrim I've got a Gabrielle whose name is Celeste Yael. She's a healer. All she does, 90% of what she does anyway, is heal the party she travels with. Rarely, she'll need to break out a weapon. You'd think such a roleplay might become boring quick, since her NPC party gets all the glory, but it's surprisingly addictive keeping others going. I'd imagine this is compounded in ESO, in which you're getting feedback from actual, other Players after combat is over.

Wow, Buffy is POOR poor, with just four coins at the moment. 🪙 In some ways, that's my fave part of a game, when we're just starting out.

Mirri approves of your elf's healing work. Buffy is hired!

Is Leyawiin partially-flooded in ESO like it is in Better Cities (if that option is chosen)?

Nice, forest-green tunic + fur & buckskin, sounds perfect.

Wine-drinking in the morning, goodness! Tamriellic version of Kathy Lee. 🍷 (kidding) oenophile = A person who has a fondness or appreciation for wine. New word for me.

Wicked-awesome screenshot. Why're they sobbing so much at the end? Worried about the Ice Witch, I guess.

ZOS thought it would be a new word for most people, so they had Mirri explain it. "I'm also a bit of an oenophile. It means I like wine. A lot." However, put that way, I'm unsure if she likes wine - a lot, or a lot of wine.

They're hinting about one of her rapport increases, when you craft an alcoholic beverage in her presence. Tanlorin also has the +1 for crafting wine, but you get +5 for drinking some, so the motivation is unclear.

It's good to see Buffy getting to look like Buffy. Without any pink.

How delightful to see the growing friendship between Mirri and Buffy!

But first, let's get my two nits out of the way . . .

First, I spotted a wayward comma: I had to read this a few times and still feel it reads better without that comma trailing after the Minotaur.

Second, and this isn't really a nit but rather a question: Did you mean Winterhold, or Windhelm? I ask because Winterhold is not yet part of ESO, while Windhelm as the capital of the fourth zone in the Ebonheart Pact; and personally, I often mistype one for the other. I'm sure you'll be able to put my mind at rest with your next post.

Now to the fun part. I was happy to see Buffy in proper adventuring attire, and this one certainly looks good on her! I smile whenever I hear Mirri talking about banging the dents out of her armor - you may recall Lyris saying the same thing to Sai at the end of the Markarth story line in ESO . . . It sounds like this new outfit of Buffy's will serve her needs properly for much of the time, but I do agree with Mirri's suggestion to hang on to the newly fitted mage's robe. This is where that Bag of Holding will come in handy!

And it's nice that Dagail taught Buffy a few more ways to support her shopping habit - a variety of income sources is invaluable when adventuring across Tamriel! And that brocaded burgundy gown she gave Dagail rings a bell - or two!

Looking forward to seeing how Buffy enjoys her time in Elden Root. I suspect it won't be long, but still, the place does leave an impression.

Now that our new pals are flush with cash it is time to spend some money! Buffy's new adventuring fit is both practical and resplendent with drip.

They have quite a bit of traveling ahead of them. But thankfully the 2nd Age has wayshrines, and Mirri seems attuned to enough to speed their travels along much faster than the old shank's mare.

Oenophile. I cannot say I knew what that meant. This was like reading an HP Lovecraft story. I had to stop to look up a word in the dictionary!

And some nice parting gifts between friends. Those bags of holding definitely come in handy.

A great looking staff, a fitting outfit and a reliable sister in arms - Buffy couldn't ask for more!