Welcome to Buffy’s fourth book! As ever, her tale of continuing adventure remains one that is character-driven with more focus on her journey than the destination. Buffy is a magically inclined Bosmer. She travels intertwined with the spirit of an old ethereal paladin named Acadian who sometimes offers advice. Sometimes she listens.

Near the end of Book 1, Buffy helped the man she loved, Savlian Matius, free his city of Kvatch. They were successful, but the terrible cost included Savlian's very life. It was a physically and emotionally broken elf who retreated in grief and despair to her ancestral homeland. Book 2 picked up shortly thereafter and chronicled Buffy's journey of recovery and self-discovery through Valenwood. Book 3 took place in Cyrodiil and saw the Oblivion Crisis finally yield to the dawn of a new Era – even as Buffy accepted the challenges of walking an ancient path of her own and becoming a paladin of Kynareth.

Books 1 through 3, in their entirety, as well as an Executive Summary concise enough to comfortably be read in one sitting, can be found on our sub forum. That said, enjoying Book 4 does not really require more information than is contained right here in these few introductory paragraphs. I have taken care to have Buffy review significant aspects of her past as they become relevant. I welcome questions relating to her past though, that I may try and amplify or clarify things should our ‘review as we go’ approach prove wanting. More specifically, I want new readers to feel comfortable just jumping right into Book 4 without feeling obligated to read Buffy’s previous books first.

Book 4 joins Buffy in Cyrodiil shortly after the Oblivion Crisis. Soon, however, she finds herself confronted by a threat so vexing that the only path to resolving it will require the direct intervention of Kynareth, and for Buffy to forsake the life she knows.

I estimate that at one episode per week, Book 4 will require just under a year to post. My fervent hope is that you find our humbly offered efforts worthy of your time.







Reluctantly, I allowed my healing bond with Countess Odalys Goldwine to dissipate. She opened her eyes, saw the tears in mine and managed a weak smile. “Tell me the truth.”

I took her hand. “The wasting sickness that began in your foot has a Daedric taint. It strongly resists healing and has spread throughout your body. Were I to remove it now, it would destroy every organ it has infested. I’m sorry, Countess. Even with the assistance of Kynareth, I cannot save you.”

“Don’t blame yourself, Buffy," the Countess of Kvatch replied. "I will be at peace knowing that if anyone could have healed me it would have been you. Ironic,” a coughing spasm interrupted her words for several moments, “that Ormellius’ mage encased me in that magical ice to protect me from the Daedra. It almost worked.”

“I know they did their best,” I said. “Given the severe time constraint of Daedra breaking down the door, I’m not surprised that Count Goldwine’s court mage inadvertently left a small part of your left foot unprotected. That is how the wasting taint entered your body.”

“And I thought it was just an annoying limp I’d have to deal with.” Coughing wracked her body again as an attentive handmaiden quickly wiped away the blood it produced.

“In the months you’ve had since Kvatch was retaken from the Daedra,” I said, “you’ve largely restored this city to its former glory while inspiring your people. I’m sure the late Count would be proud. I know I will always be grateful for the mutual consolation we shared after both losing our mates. Let me ease your pain.”

“No,” she stayed my hands, “that will cloud my thinking and I have a request I must make of you while I still can.”

“I will do whatever I’m able Milady.”

“After I die, rule of Kvatch will be a ripe target. My city deserves better than the unproven offspring of some ambitious noble like the skooma-sucking son of Count Bravil.”

“I agree. How can I help?” I asked while trying to restrain a rising sense of panic. Please don’t ask me to try and become the Countess of Kvatch. As much as I love the city that Savlian Matius and I fought for and he died for, it harbors memories that are too. . . painful to make it my home. Not that the Elder Council would ever consider me – a Bosmeri orphan who can barely rule herself.

“I would like the Champions of Cyrodiil to succeed me,” she said. “Since moving to Kvatch and taking leadership of the Order of the Wolf, Sirs Agronak and Mazoga have proven their love for this city.” Her words were growing weaker and coming slowly now. “I have spoken with them and they are willing to accept the appointment if offered. I want you to be my advocate before the Elder Council. There will be resistance because they are orcs and neither is of noble birth. Will you do this for me?”

“I will advocate for you Milady, for I can think of no finer potential count and countess for Kvatch than Sirs Agronak and Mazoga.” Through her pain of trying to breathe, I could see a sense of relief in her eyes. “You must rest now.” As she almost imperceptibly nodded, I laid hands on her again.

I eased her pain then, mercifully, she slept. With her mistress asleep, the Countess’ handmaiden shifted her focus to me, bringing cool water, hot tea and fresh bread with soft cheese. We kept vigil through the night.

By dawn Countess Odalys was gone. “Join your Count in Aetherious now,” I said softly while her hands were still warm. As I left the Countess’ bedchamber, I was met by Sirs Mazoga and Agronak.

Their hopeful looks turned to despair as soon as they saw my face. Mazoga engulfed my shoulder with a massive hand. “Sorry, Buff.”

I tried to smile. “She died peacefully. I understand you're both aware of her request regarding a successor?”

Both orcs nodded. It was Agronak who spoke. “Countess Odalys was a fine ruler. We’d be honored if chosen to take up her mantle and finish what she started.”

I nodded. “I’m leaving almost straightaway to relay her wishes to the Imperial Council.”

After tearful goodbyes, followed by a quick visit to Savlian’s grave, Superian and I were on the road and riding into the morning sun.

**

My hands fidgeted as I sat on the hard chair. I’m sure I would have been tapping my feet had they been able to reach the floor. I looked up at the guard posted by the door. “How long do you think before the Imperial Council finishes deliberating and gives me their decision?”

The guard quietly replied, “No way to tell, Dame Buffy. You made a persuasive case. There are many in the Legion who well-remember what you, Captain Matius and the Champions of Cyrodiil did to free Kvatch. For what it’s worth, I think those knights could provide the strength and inspiration to make that city flourish once again.”

“Thank you,” I said. “I hope the Council agrees.”

The door opened and I was ushered back into the Council’s chamber. Those holding the future of Kvatch in their hands sat on the far side of a wide table as I stood before them. I could not read their faces.

“Dame Buffy,” began High Chancellor Ocato, “the Council has reached a decision regarding the late Countess of Kvatch's wishes regarding her successor. Odalys could not have chosen a better advocate. You certainly made a strong case that her success in rebuilding Kvatch should lend great strength to her recommendation. Further, you spoke eloquently to the character of Sirs Mazoga and Agronak, gained through your long history of friendship and fighting by their sides. You also made a strong argument for the superiority of earning one’s noble title via deed instead of birth.”

I realized I was holding my breath and forced myself to breathe. Their words were encouraging. So far.

“That acknowledged,” he continued as my hopes sank, “the Council feels Kvatch would be best served with the Champions of Cyrodiil remaining at the helm of the city’s valiant order of knights. Further, with so many changes affecting the Empire, we feel the people need. . . stability, a feeling of normalcy regarding how the Empire has always done business. Therefore, during a subsequent deliberation, we shall choose the next ruler of Kvatch from one of the well-known and respected noble families of Cyrodiil. Please accept our appreciation for bringing the late Countess’ recommendation to us for consideration. This proceeding is concluded.”

My hands were behind my back but I didn’t need to see them to know how white the knuckles of my clenched fists were. Nor did I need to see the hot flush of anger that rose above the neckline of my buckskins to know the color that traveled up to my face and out to the tips of my ears. I looked at each Councilor. Round-eared Imperials with soft hands, every one of them. Not one had ever seen a day of combat. Easy, Buffy, Countess Odalys was an Imperial as well. That is not the problem. That these ignorant fools are leading the Empire is the problem. I need to restrain my tongue. Nothing good for Kvatch can come from a display of anger toward them. I swallowed hard and finally spoke, “Countess Odalys was a skilled leader and friend. I appreciate the opportunity to have conveyed her considered recommendation.” I turned and left the chamber hastily so they would not see the tears I fought to hold back.

Omg you sly man! Secretive Scorpio. I KNEW it! Knew a new Buffy was in the works!

*grabs coffee* ☕Indeed, a lot of times I prefer the journey over the destination, and so do a lot of my characters.



Sweet!

Buffy's using her Healer side, straight away. Hmm, seems the Countess has someone in mind for succession. Could it be?

Heh, she knows to refer to Mazoga with the proper gender!

Hate to say, and I think some may disagree, but I agree with Ocato. Mazoga and the Gray Prince may be great warriors, but hmm... leaders of a rebuilding city? I dunno about that. I'd say this is true for my own Hero of Kvatch/Champion of Cyrodiil, as well. Guy was a great mage and saved the masses from the Daedra, but he'd be an awful ruler, were he called to Kvatch.

But let's see where next chapters lead. And welcome back, Dame Buffy.

Welcome back, Buffy and Acadian (both IRL and Paladin)! It is good to see Buffy living her life and good to see her being herself. Trying to help others is such an innate part of her very self and I can't imagine her being otherwise with her friends.

Sadly, while I hoped along with Buffy for the "right" outcome, I am not surprised by the decision by the Elder Council. I do hope for the sake of the people of Kvatch that this does not bode poorly for them.

Now what will Buffy do next? I await for the next installment with bated breath!

Welcome Back Kotter Buffy! I am looking forward to spending time with Buffy, Supes, and their spiritual partners once more.

A sobering start as Buffy tries - and fails - to heal the Countess of Kvatch of a mortal disease. It not only shows us Buffy's healing powers, but also their limits.

When the Countess asked her boon, I must confess my mind went to exactly the same place as Buffy, and recoiled for exactly the same reason. She is not cut out for being the administrator of a city. Putting the Champions in charge sounds much better!

Granted, I do not envy her pals Mazoga and Agronak for taking up that responsibility. Assuming they do get the job. It's a thankless task, worse than herding cats. At least for people who are honest and earnest in their desire to do good for their community.

Speaking of thankless tasks, I do not envy Buffy the task of trying to convince the Elder Council to honor the Countess' request either. That is likely to be a battle all its own!

And a battle lost I see. *sigh* But not a surprise. Now I wonder who the successor will be? A scion of one of Cyrodiil's oldest families makes one wonder if this means that the Count of Bravil's skooma-sucking son will indeed be the new Count K? Or will this be a brand new character bespoke for the Buffy-verse?

My own imagination can easily turn its wheels in my head and imagine Buffy becoming hip deep in events alongside this newcomer. Maybe even aiding a selfish and self-centered new Count(ess) learn some humility and responsibility, even as both drama and hijinks ensue. Or maybe nothing like that. I can't wait to see!

Round-eared Imperial, cousin to the Nords, indeed.

Even though I saw the eventual outcome early I too held out hope when hearing High Chancellor Ocato's opening statement. Then came the "That acknowledged" statement, signaling that the petition was lost. Oh well, it's still hard for the Imperials to accept Orcs, the onetime enemy of the state, as equals.

Let's just say I'm not betting on a Rugdumph.

Oh my goodness, a year of Buffy! I am absolutely delighted!!

I love that Buffy opens Book 4 in her beloved Savlian’s Kvatch, doing her very best to help her friends there. But it all leads to frustration. The image of Buffy fidgeting in that ill-fitting Imperial chair sums it up.

Buffy’s emotions were so clear and present throughout that I had a small tear of my own by the end. Or maybe I’m just that happy to read her story again!

I understand that Kvatch cannot be a home for Buffy, no matter how much the city and her people want her there. Whatever Buffy’s next destination may be (and I love the clue that she has already given us!), I am mentally brewing my next cup of tea in anticipation of the journey!

Just a few days ago I checked the fan fic section of the forum, if there's anything new in the world of Buffy. Maybe I had a premonition? In any case, welcome back Buffy and Acadian.

I had a feeling that it won't go that easy with the Elder Council and that the kind greeting words would soon be followed by the disagreement of the council regarding the late Countess' wish.

I'm looking forward to what's going to happen next, the subtle hints that you mention in the introduction, give us quite some themes to think about.

Previously- Despite Buffy’s best effort, she was unable to save the Countess of Kvatch from a protracted, wasting illness. As Buffy conveyed the late Countess’ wishes regarding a successor to the Imperial Council, she began to realize the Council’s goals for the Empire were more ignorant and short-sighted than she had hoped.

*

Renee- Thank you! Many aspects of Buffy’s journey ahead have been in conceptual form for a long time. It’s only fairly recently that we were able to work out some key decisions, enabling us to begin writing. I’m glad you noted Buffy’s healer side for, in her continuing evolution, that is becoming the dominating focus of her skillset. You may be right about Sirs Mazoga and Agronak. I’d like to think that Agronak displayed considerable wisdom as a natural leader among his fellow gladiators back when he was in the Arena but who knows? Buffy is certainly not qualified to know what it takes to run a city. She’s just loyal as a post to her friends.

Rider- Thanks for the welcome back! Our purpose with the Imperial Council scene was to display a possible small crack in the Council’s ability to wisely lead the Empire into the Fourth Era. We’ll soon see another and larger fault line indicating that having neither Uriel nor Martin Septim at the helm does not bode well for the Empire.

SubRosa- Thank you! Buffy will dwell somewhat on losing the Countess and, of course, blame herself. Just as she’ll lament failing to deliver on the Countess’ final request. She will not be returning to Kvatch though, for this next episode will set the stage for a more immediate problem.

macole- Thanks for pointing out the classic ‘You made a great case. . . BUT. . . .’ situation with the Council. Buffy’s been mistreated for being a ‘knife-earred bark biter’ enough times that it’s sometimes tempting for her to conjure negative racial generalizations. What tempers this is when she – as in the last episode – reminds herself of the many friends she has within whatever race she is currently challenged to deal with.

ghastley- But Rugdumph speaks eloquently while saying little that is understandable. What else does a politician need? Thanks!

Grits- Thank you! As you well know, Buffy is an emotional elf and I’m so pleased that her feelings came through clearly – and even a bit infectiously.

Lopov- Wonderful to see you posting again and thanks for your comments! I’m pleased that both you and Grits noted the introductory comment hint regarding Buffy’s destination.





Once south of Imperial City on the road to Bravil, Superian and I stopped at Pells Gate. Kitsune, my fennec fox familiar, hopped down from her perch in front of my hips and disappeared into the nearby forest. The assistant innkeeper, who also served as the stable hand, was an Imperial who had seen perhaps fifteen summers. He looked up from sweeping the stable floor. “Good to see you again, Superian. How’s my favorite palomino mare? Oh, hi, Buffy, does she need water?”

“No,” I replied, “we stopped at the nearby stream where she drank her fill. Just the usual, please.”

He grinned. “I’ll be right back.” With that he ran the short distance into the settlement’s tavern.

I dismounted and hugged the mare, burying my face in her white flowing mane and breathing deeply of her comforting scent. The lad returned as I was stretching my legs. He handed me an opened bottle of beer and a bowl. I pressed several small coins into his hand before he headed back into the tavern mumbling, “Mop the floors, make the beds. . . .”

After taking a couple small drinks, I poured the rest into the bowl and offered it to Superian. Rather than enthusiastically drinking, she took only a small amount of it and lifted her head, ignoring the rest. “Acadian, this is not like her.” I set the bowl on a nearby tack locker. “Are you all right, my precious mare? It’s not like you to turn down such a treat.” I knew some folk felt beer was bad for horses but at over 115 stone, I didn’t believe a beer occasionally would harm the mighty mare. After all, at only six stone, a couple swallows never hurt me. I was concerned about her lack of interest though. I laid hands upon her and established a bond of healing. After a few minutes, I allowed the bond to dissipate and lowered my hands, perplexed.

“Well?” asked my old paladin.

I frowned. “Physically there’s nothing wrong with her, but she’s . . . distracted by something and I have no idea what it could be. Perhaps I’m worrying needlessly.”

“Possibly, but when it comes to healing, your instincts are sound.” After a moment, he added, “I wonder if it could be something related to the dragon spirit of Phantom that she carries? I suggest once we get to Bravil, you allow me to recall the dragon-mare to spirit form within you. I will then be able to tell if Phantom is the source of the problem.”

I nodded, remounted and guided the mare from Pells Gate. Once on the road south, I knew Superian needed no direction from me to get us home, for we had made this trip countless times. Kitsune quickly joined us, loping alongside the mare. My mind turned to recent events. “I’ve failed, Acadian. I couldn’t save Odalys and I couldn’t even make good on her dying wish.”

“Buffy, the Countess was right that if you couldn’t save her, no healer in Tamriel could.”

“That’s just the point; I could have saved her,” I replied. “Damn it, I’m a healer, and I failed!”

“I don’t understand, Buffy. You said yourself that if you removed the sickness it would destroy her infested organs.”

“By the time Guildmagister Sigrid sent for me, it was indeed too late. Where I failed the Countess was when we first released her from that protective block of magical ice during the battle for Kvatch. I thought the problem with her foot to be mere atrophy due to lack of protection and blood flow.” Pent up tears spilled freely now. “Had I properly diagnosed her at the time, when the Daedric wasting sickness had not advanced, I could have saved her. My failure killed her. Every bit as much as those Daedra who killed her husband.”

“Nay, Buffy. What killed her was the incompetent court mage who failed to fully encapsulate her in that magical ice.”

I bristled. “What?!? That poor mage was under fire, and Daedra were literally breaking down the door into the royal vault – their last refuge. He did his very best with so little time, I’m sure. Remember how his lightning staff was completely drained of charges when we found it? He gave everything he had to protect his Count and Countess! Your accusation is unfair and unwarranted.”

“And,” persisted Acadian, “were you not also under attack with Daedra beating at the door when you rapidly assessed the Countess’ condition so Savlian could have her quickly escorted to safety? Your self-accusation is unfair and unwarranted.”

“You would turn my own words against me?” I retorted, even as I recognized his point. Still, I frowned. “What of the aftermath? There was plenty of time then.”

“As I recall,” replied the paladin, “you were unconscious for days, under the care of the chapel’s healer and fighting for your own life. Once you were able to move about, you and the Countess were both justifiably overwhelmed with the shock and grief of losing your mates. What you ask of yourself, if not impossible, is entirely unreasonable.”

“I. . . my head realizes you’re right but my heart tells me otherwise.”

“Buffy, there is much truth to your impassioned proclamation that you are a healer.”

“Then why do I feel so inadequate?”

After a moment he replied, “The same nurturing and empathic nature that is largely responsible for your considerable ability to heal others is precisely the reason you hurt so much and tend to blame yourself when you cannot save a patient. Yes, mourn those you cannot save, but do not lose sight of those you can. You are gifted, Buffy, and I am confident that those you heal will continue to vastly outnumber those you lose.”

I opened my mouth to speak, but then closed it again. The old paladin was right. Once again, his unwavering belief in me had made me feel better. “Thank you, Acadian. I’ll try.”

Magnus was embracing the trees to our west as a gentle breeze carried the welcome smell of woodsmoke from the chimneys and cooking fires of Bravil.

After dismounting at the approach end of the bridge leading to Bravil’s main gate, Acadian quietly said, “Ven Sah Liz, I need you.” Like most of her kind, Phantom’s name in the tongue of dragons consisted of three words that, in her case, translated to ‘Wind Phantom Ice’. Superian began to dematerialize into a pale bluish mist that was the color of an ancient glacier. Within moments the combined spirits of both mare and dragon were safely within me.

After crossing the bridge, the guard opened the gate for us. “I’ll never get used to how you can make your mare disappear into thin air and reappear when you need her.” He shook his head. “Mages.”

I smiled in return. “Good to see you Petronius. I trust your shift goes well?”

“Well enough,” he replied. “I heard you went to Kvatch to try and heal the ailing countess there. How is she?”

I winced and shook my head. “She didn’t make it.”

“I’m sorry to hear that, Buffy. I’ve seen you heal plenty of our townsfolk and I’m sure if anyone could’ve saved her it would have been you.”

So everyone keeps telling me. I sighed and smiled weakly as we passed through the gate. Kitsune shadowed closely on my heels. Though the vixen often preferred to make herself scarce around others, she seemed comfortable in Bravil. She was unobtrusive enough though that I often forgot she was there.

After foraging a meal from the mages guild’s pantry and discussing what happened in Kvatch with Guildmagister Kud-Ei, I settled into my quarters upstairs. Thankfully, my roommate, Ardaline, was out for the evening and I was finally alone. I could feel Acadian begin probing Phantom’s spirit.

After quite some time, he said, “Buffy, I believe your mare is fine. Our dragon is the problem.”

“What’s wrong with her, Acadian?”

“I am almost as perplexed as you were after you checked Superian earlier in the day. It is very subtle, but something is . . . almost imperceptibly draining magicka from her spirit.”

I scratched my head. “What could be the cause of that?”

“Whatever is responsible is beyond my ken. I have an idea of who might know though.”

“Out with it, my paladin! I will not lose another patient due to delay!”

“As you know,” he dutifully replied, “Phantom was created by Kyne to be my mount when I served as her paladin during the Great Dragon War. If anyone can help us, it is she.”

“Then our course is clear,” I stated. Closing my eyes, I quietly spoke, “My Lady Kynareth, Goddess of sky and forest, I need your wisdom to understand the nature of what ails the spirit of your dragon, Phantom. As your paladin, I would ask audience with you.” I quietly waited, unsure what – if any – answer to expect.

It took but a few moments before I had my response. There were no words but somehow I knew. “Acadian, at dawn tomorrow along the Niben's shoreline nearby, we shall meet with Kynareth.”

“Well done, Buffy. In the interim, the day has been long. Your heart and body are weary. Rest.”

I remain happy and delighted to see this story continue, even as I share Buffy's grief as a fellow healer. I too have had patients I've lost, and it's difficult to not blame ourselves or question our abilities in these cases.

I had forgotten how you made Superian disappear and reappear, and how Phantom became part of that process - it has been too long since I read the earlier Buffy books.

A horse that won't drink beer! Yes, something is indeed off with our grand palomino.

And I begin to see the Dragon shaped future ahead of Buffy and Acadian, Superian and Phantom. Wonder how Buffy is going to deal with the cold?

Ahhh, Buffy rides again!

So Buffy is on the road again with horse and fox, and spiritual mentor and dragon in tow.

Looks like Superian is not thirsty, not even for a treat. Why does this set off low, ominous music in the background?

Buffy grapples with the guilt of failure. I do like that you are highlighting the fact that she is not perfect here. She still has much to learn, and is still capable of not seeing or knowing everything, especially when circumstances are at their worst. She is going to have to learn to forgive herself for not being perfect. Which will probably not be easy.

OTOH, it also reveals her empathy for others. There are people who literally would not care. But Buffy is not one of them, because other people matter to her. That is one of the things that makes her so endearing.

Uh oh, there it is, something is draining Phantom's magicka battery. A magical disease? A ghost? A daedra left over from the Oblivion Crisis? I expect Kynareth will have the answer.

As a healer myself, I can only say, that these words from the old paladin are wise, very wise.

I couldn't but help to chuckle a little at the scene, where Buffy is about to enter Bravil. Acadian finally managed to lift her morale a little and then Petronius asks about the Countess. I was sort of in anticipation, that this might happen.

What a clever way to bring the mare into the town.

So the first cliff-hanger of a sort is already there, at the same time I also wonder, who Drodda the Icewitch is.

P.S.
I've been posting again, yes, because my children are a bit older, so I have some more free time and I can also spend more time behind a screen.

I like that you've added the weekly recap already. My memory's bad, but thankfully not that bad! - But still, maybe I should start recapping as well.

I agree; I can't see Buffy just becoming a leader of Kvatch all the sudden. That would be a fail, methinks. My own Renee Gade III is supposed to be the Countess of Kvatch in her world for instance, through the Kvatch Rising mod, yet this is a fail because she's hardly ever in town. I don't even bother to RP her supposed title anymore!

Thinking constructively, I could see Buffy becoming the leader of, say, a Ranger's faction or some such. Something entirely within her skillset.

-- Her fox runs into the forest when they reach Pell's Gate, interesting.

-- She's being hard on herself for failing to cure/heal Odalys. I get it. I don't agree Buffy should blame herself entirely, but hey, I'm not in the medical profession. Also: Things in the world of Tamriel (as portrayed in this story) seem to go much broader than just 'cast a spell and you're healed!', as per how the games portray these situations.

-- Wow. Your elf and Acadian (you?) were arguing! Sort of. More like, Acadian trying to convince the elf she shouldn't beat herself up, while she vehemently disagreed.

We await next story, sir.

I was cackling when the stablehand greeted Superian first. But oh no, our favorite Palomino mare doesn’t want to finish her beer?

What a beautiful exchange between Buffy and Acadian.

Magnus was embracing the trees to our west as a gentle breeze carried the welcome smell of woodsmoke from the chimneys and cooking fires of Bravil.

I love how this sentence conveys a coming-home feeling. And I love Buffy’s Bravil! Yesss, the Mages Guild! I had to giggle at “foraging a meal.” It reminded me of rooting through their containers and scouring the surfaces for snacks in the game.

This episode’s demonstration of healer-paladin-horse-dragon-fox mechanics was very welcome. Also, Buffy is tiny! Like, really tiny! That was a good reminder.

I have to highlight one more thing, this very Buffy moment:

“Out with it, my paladin! I will not lose another patient due to delay!”

Why am I picturing fists on hips? And she’ll be on the move before dawn the next day. No grass is going to grow under Buffy’s feet while a friend is in danger!

Previously- During Buffy’s travel from the Imperial City to Bravil, she noted a degree of lethargy in Superian. She laid on hands and assessed that nothing was physically wrong with the mare. That evening, with the mare safely recalled within Buffy, Acadian was able to discern that the problem was with Superian’s spirit mate, Phantom – the dragon created by Kynareth that served as Acadian’s mount during the Great Dragon War. Something was slowly draining Phantom’s spirit. Buffy asked for an audience with Kynareth to, hopefully, learn more.

*

Rider- Thank you for asking about how Phantom and Superian’s spirits were joined. Here is a slightly edited excerpt from our Executive Summary covering the early portion of Book 2:
Whenever Acadian asks Phantom to join him, the dragon transitions Superian from mare into spirit form so she can be absorbed within Buffy. When Buffy asks Superian to join her, the reverse happens and the mare responds by moving the spirit from within Buffy and assuming physical form again. While our solution is a bit complex, it allows Buffy to avoid leaving her mare unattended in a dangerous land, and also provides the mare a lifespan that likely rivals Buffy’s.

Lena Wolf- Thank you! Yes, ride fast and shoot straight!

SubRosa- Thank you for the kind words about Buffy’s struggles with self-confidence. Strange indeed whatever is sapping Phantom but, like you and Acadian, I expect Kynareth can divine what the problem is.

Lopov- Your support as a healer is most gratifying indeed. I think it takes a very special nurturing and empathic nature. Over time, I think we’re seeing that evolve to be Buffy’s primary calling. She is a paladin though (not a priest or pure restoration mage) and will need to develop a balance between smiting her foes and healing her allies.

Renee- Thank you. I agree that Countess Buffy would be a bad idea. Yes, Acadian is a long dead paladin whose spirit dwells within Buffy. It’s not as intrusive as it sounds for, over time, their spirits have become inextricably intertwined almost into one. Sometimes he offers advice; sometimes she listens.

Grits- As ever, your gracious and astute comments are most welcome. Acadian is occasionally able to help talk his butterfly elf through her emotional crises. I’m glad you enjoyed the review of how Buffy ‘unsummons’ and ‘summons’ Superian and the complex interwoven spirits involved. In Buffy lore, a stone is 14 pounds so that puts Buffy at 84 pounds. She is actually lighter than she looks, for like all members of her Clouddancer clan she has light, birdlike bones as an adaptation for life in the highest branches of graht oak trees. Quite a bit more on Cloud Dancers later in the book. Incidentally, Buffy’s height is 4’8”.


Along a secluded stretch of beach just north of Bravil, I gazed across the Niben River at the trees along the eastern shore. Soon enough, Magnus’ first rays spilled through their branches. I heard a slow beating of wings behind me and turned in time to see her gently land. The white light she emanated gave a glow to her mane of hip-length thick golden tresses and gown of snowy white. She was much taller than I, and the suggestion of curves beneath the flowing silk made it clear she was more voluptuous as well. Such was the case with all Nordic women though. Her eyes were bright blue – not unlike my own.

“Th-thank you, My Lady, for coming to me,” I managed to stammer.

Kynareth’s warm smile did much to set me at ease. “I will not forsake my paladin, Buffy.” I recognized her voice – which seemed to gently echo all around me - from when she had proclaimed me her paladin and helped me heal Sir Agronak after the Oblivion Crisis not so long ago. “This is my natural form; however, it is . . . less than ideal for mundane business in the presence of mortals.” The glowing light around her faded as her appearance wavered, changing. A moment later an attractive but otherwise unremarkable Nordic woman stood before me. I still recognized her but, the long silk gown had become a simple linen dress of knee length and cream in color. Her hair was now restrained into a pair of plaits draped in front of her shoulders. And, of course, her wings were gone.

I realized my mouth was open. I closed it.

“This manifestation allows me to pass unobtrusively among mortals when I wish it.” Her voice, though still recognizable had lost its echo and gained the hint of a Nordic accent. “What troubles you, my paladins, for I sense unease in both of you?”

It was Acadian who spoke. “Your creation, the dragon, Phantom, is having what residual magicka she has retained after death very slowly drained from her spirit. We do not understand the source of the intrusion or how to stop it.”

Kynareth tilted her head slightly. “Will you bring forth the mare, Superian, who currently hosts Phantom’s spirit?”

“Of course, My Lady,” I replied. “Superian, I need you.” The same glacier colored mist into which she had dematerialized the evening prior formed in front of me. Quite quickly, the form of my mare took shape. When the mist cleared, Superian stood before us.

Kynareth took a step closer and allowed my mare to smell and investigate this new stranger. A gentle snort of approval elicited a smile from the Goddess. Superian offered no objection as Kynareth laid on hands and kept them there for some time.

With a slight furrow on her brow, she lowered her hands and announced, “You are correct. I know the cause, but fear it will not be easy to stop.”

“I have faced difficult challenges before,” I replied with more confidence than I felt.

Kynareth said, “Her energy is being siphoned by an errant sorceress known as Drodda the Icewitch, who has clearly located the long-frozen remains of our dragon. Dragons are beings of great mystic power. Even after several millennia, Phantom’s corpse still contains significant residual magicka. By siphoning this magic from the corporeal form of our ice dragon, Drodda seeks to enhance her own considerable skill with ice magic. That is what is weakening Phantom’s spirit. This ice wizard is dangerous and, if successful, will become much more so.”

The words of my own doctrine silently thrust themselves into my thoughts: ’If you are kind to me, I will love you dearly; if you are a threat to me or my friends, I will likely kill you.’ “Tell us,” I implored, “where is this sorceress who threatens my dragon-mare. I will seek her out and kill her!”

“Where is not the challenge, Buffy,” replied the Goddess.

“I don’t understand, My Lady,” I said.

Kynareth sighed. “Drodda and her foul plans exist in the Second Era - fully 750 years in the past.”

I scratched my head, growing more and more confused. “If she’s long in the past, how can she be affecting Phantom now? Has it already occurred? I still don’t understand.”

“Nor would I expect you to, Buffy. Those who have attempted to study chronomancy have invariably gone mad in the pursuit. I caution you not to dwell on the circular spiral of danger that questions about time can generate.”

“My Lady,” protested Acadian, “is there naught can be done?” I sensed his frustration and shared it.

“Perhaps,” replied Kynareth. “I shall need to consult the Dragon God of Time about the possibility of sending you after Drodda. If it is possible, Buffy, you must ask yourself if you would be willing to forsake your life here. . . your belongings, dear friends like Daenlin, Nilawen, Kud-Ei, Ardaline, Boderi Farano, Sirs Mazoga and Agronak.” After a moment, she added, “I would not be among them, but there are those who might argue the spirit of a dead dragon is not worth the risk of such an endeavor.”

I opened my mouth but Kynareth gently placed two elegant fingers over my lips to silence me. “Do not answer yet. Consider carefully and discuss it with Acadian while I consult with Akatosh. In the meantime, take comfort in knowing that we do have some time. It will be months before Drodda is able to draw enough magicka from Phantom to truly endanger her spirit.”

“I thank you for your assistance and wisdom,” I said, “and will await your further guidance.”

Her hand reached out and cupped my cheek. “It is you who may be doing a service for me, my young paladin. Phantom is my creation. She is precious to me as she is to both of you. . . and your mare carries all of her that I have left. Besides, Drodda represents a serious threat to those who live in her time. I must leave you now, but you will know when I have news for you.”

“My Lady?” I asked tentatively.

“Yes, Buffy?”

“How are you so readily able to list off my dearest friends?”

Her smile was surprisingly tender. “I knew you from the moment Acadian’s spirit joined yours while you were still in your mother’s womb. I was there at the moment of your sunrise birth alongside Nilawen as she delivered you. Yes, alongside my cousin Azura, for as your godmother, she was there as well. The Mistress of Twilight had neither aptitude for nor experience with children but did what she believed to be best for you as she claimed your spirit, effectively warding it from both Daedric Princes and Divines. That prevented me from reaching out to you until only recently, when Azura finally realized you were a child of light, lifted her warding and recommended you seek out the Divines. Be assured though, I was there. For every scraped knee. Every time you were teased by the human children about your large ears or small size. When you loosed your first arrow, cast your first spell, graduated from the Arcane University. When you discovered the wonders of love in the arms of Savlian Matius. And, yes, when you were forced to deal with the pain of his death. I know the number of hairs on your head, my paladin.” She lifted an eyebrow. “Did I answer your question?”

Quite overwhelmed, I was speechless and barely managed a meek nod.

“I have you at quite a disadvantage, Buffy, for I have known you all your life. You are only now just beginning to know me. As I said, you will know when I have word.” And with that, Kynareth was gone.

Read all comments from last week just now. Notice how we all gain different insights and perspectives from BB4 so far.

Whoa, Kynareth comes for a visit, changing from angelic to Nordic. Even Buffy is awed.

Drodda the Ice Witch... shoot. Can't just leave an innocent elf and her magical horse be. And she lives in the past? How are they gonna defeat a second-era antagonist if they're in the Third (Fourth...?) Era?

Kynareth is truly amongst the Gods. Time is not a constant that world.

Off-topic question: was Buffy aligned with dragons when you played Skyrim?

Welp. I must've had Skyrim on the brain reading B4 so far, because I was so sure Buffy and Acadian/Superian and Phantom were heading north into 4E Dragonland! But it seems we are traveling back in time instead. Hmmm, fun times ahead for Buffy and her gang! Looking forward to what obstacles will try to divert Buffy from her intention to heal Superian.

Kynareth/Kyne as a Nord does make sense, considering she is one of the main deities of Skyrim through the ages. After all, Kynesgrove is named after her!

I suspect that deities get used to mortals gaping at them with open mouths. It kind of comes with the territory of being godly. Though at least Kyne had the presence of mind to tone down her appearance to something more mundane.

So the eponymous Drodda the Ice Witch has finally made her appearance! I was at first wondering if perhaps she might be the new Countess of Kvatch. But no, it looks like she is a ne'er-do-well in need of smiting!

I see Buffy feels exactly the same! Let the smotage ensue!

Uh oh, not where, but when? This gets more and more interesting. And perhaps a tie to ESO? Buffy is going to have to find a way to go back in time. She does not have a Tardis, or a Delorean, so I wonder how she is going to manage this?

I must say, that Kyne/areth really shone in this episode. In both her grandeur, and her simplicity. But mainly in her earnestness, and her intimacy with Buffy. She has always been there, and always will be. As a paladin's deity should be.

in this episode, I learned a lot about Buffy and her relationship with Arcadian, Superian, and the dragon spirit Phantom. I'm looking forward to hearing more of their history as Buffy goes to the 2nd era where it all begins. Or does it?

Oh my goodness, Kynareth’s entrance was lovely! I adore her warm, straightforward manner. (And a pair of Nordic plaits draped in front of the shoulders cannot be improved upon. )

I never considered that Phantom would have remains somewhere, so the idea that someone had sought them out for misdeeds was especially chilling. That darn Drodda and her siphoning spells! Buffy’s response was no surprise. Where do I go to kill her?

I was glad to see such tenderness from Kynareth. Even though Buffy carries those who are most important within her including memories of Savlian, leaving everyone in her life who loves her is a terrible decision to have to make.

A beautiful and vivid description of Kynareth's arrival and transformation.

My mouth also remained opened for a while, after reading that the Ice Witch's plans actually exist in the past. Finally we also read for the first the name, that's mentioned in the subtitle of this book.

I'm sure that Buffy will fair well in the past, but without her fellow companions it'll definitely be a challenge and a unique experiences...just like for us, the readers.

Previously- Buffy met with Kynareth and learned that an ice mage is siphoning the residual magic from Phantom’s long frozen corpse – some 750 years in the past. Kynareth agrees to consult with the Dragon God of Time about the possibility of sending Buffy back in time to intervene. In the meantime, Kynareth suggests Buffy consider whether she is willing to leave the life she knows behind.

*

Renee- Thank you! Yes, Kynareth will be a major character in Buffy’s future and we’ll spend plenty more time developing her. And it does look like there may be some time travel involved to get Buffy where she needs to be. Regarding Skyrim - very early on, it was a dragon who saved Buffy’s life from the Imperials who kidnapped and wanted to behead her so she had no qualms with dragons. She also quickly learned that Stormcloaks disliked elves. Then she learned to dislike Thalmor as well. So. . . about the only organizational alliances she had were with the College of Winterhold and the Companions.

Rider- Well, the acorns are out of the bag now and it does indeed look like ESO for Buffy. Our challenge was devising a reason compelling enough to cause her to leave the life she knows in Oblivion. The Elder Council will display yet another ‘crack’ in its ability to wisely rule the Empire, and Kynareth will elaborate more on how dire the threat to Buffy’s dragon mare is. Once those pieces are in place, Buffy’s final decision should seem natural, even predictable.

SubRosa- Thank you for your kind words regarding our depiction of Kynareth. She will develop into a major character as she earns Buffy’s trust and Buffy worms her way into the Divine’s heart.

macole- I’m so glad you are learning more of what makes Buffy tick. My challenge with such a long multibook saga is trying to review relevant pieces of her history and lore adequately as we progress. As I’ve mentioned, I welcome questions should my efforts in that regard prove insufficient.

Grits- Thank you! My hope is to present Kynareth as both the goddess that she is, but also possessing a warm approachability to her paladin. We spent much time devising some purpose that would coax Buffy to travel to the Second Era for, as you say, leaving her friends behind will not come easily. A nice thing about Kynareth is that, like Acadian, she is timeless and will be with Buffy regardless of Era.

Lopov- I appreciate the kind words about Kynareth’s arrival. She has been interesting (and enjoyable) to write, and will remain an enduring character in Buffy’s world.




Kynareth had certainly given me much to think about. I was distracted as I spent much of the day catching up on local news with Nilawen while helping in her general store. By early evening, Daenlin stopped by and coaxed me to dinner at Silverhome on the Water.

I was well into a grilled salmon steak when my old Bosmeri archery master remarked, “You seem distant, Buffy, what troubles you.”

I finished chewing, swallowed and took a small sip of wine as I carefully considered my words. I would not lie to or mislead Daenlin. But neither did I want to worry him. “I have a decision to make. . . and it’s a big one.”

“That sounds serious.” He wrinkled his brow. “Would it help to talk it out?”

“I don’t think so, Master.” Though he was no longer my archery master I continued to use the honorific. “Kynareth has called me to consider a quest for her. The mission is important but would take me far away for perhaps a very long time. Beyond that, it involves details I cannot discuss.”

Daenlin set his fork down. “I can see this is important to you. Whatever it is, I know you’ll make the right decision.”

I took his hand. “Thank you, Master.”

“How do you enjoy living at the guild?” asked Daenlin, helpfully changing the subject.

“It’s good for me, I think, to be surrounded by my guildmates. I. . . I’m thankful that you and Kud-Ei forced me to sell my house and move into the guild. You both were right; I was not doing well by myself after losing Savlian.”

“A thank you, is it?” asked Daenlin with a smile and wink. “I’ll take that over the ‘Daenlin, I hate you!’ and bruises on my back I received when I carried you over my shoulder out of your house to the guild hall.”

I chuckled, even as I felt a flush of embarrassment. “I hope I’ve learned some of the wisdom both you and Kud-Ei have tried to teach me over the years.” With a last small drink, I emptied my wine goblet, set it on the table and pushed it away.

Daenlin watched and said, “I expect you have much to think about. How about I walk you home to your guild?”

Later that evening, Ardaline and I were upstairs, sitting cross legged on our beds wearing flimsy sleeping tunics and catching up with each other. Kitsune was comfortably curled up on my pillow, her luxuriant tail draped over her head. Our occasional giggles were interrupted by Kud-Ei. “I am sorry to interrupt your girl talk but I received an unusual letter from the Arch Mage today.”

“Unusual?” I asked.

Kud-Ei nodded. “Arch Mage Traven has called for a meeting three days hence of Guildmagisters and senior staff of the University. It is unusual for its short notice. Such things are normally scheduled several months in advance. Whatever it is, must therefore be quite important. Ardaline, I want you to act as temporary Guildmagister in my absence.”

“M-me?” squeaked Ardaline. “Would not Buffy be a better choice? After all she’s a Knight Arcana in the Order of the Lamp.”

“Nonsense, young lady. I’ve seen how deftly you manage customers as our alchemist. Fair, courteous but not easily cheated or manipulated. This will be a fine opportunity to further develop your leadership and confidence. Besides, Buffy will be escorting me to the University.”

I tilted my head. “I'd be honored to do so, Guildmagister. . . but I’m curious. You’re a grandmaster illusionist and the road between here and the University is reasonably safe. . . .”

“Your perceptiveness does not fail you, Buffy. Whatever news the Arch Mage has to impart must be important for him to call us together on such short notice. As Ardaline reminds us, you are a Knight Arcana; I think we both can predict Palatinus Boderi Farano will want to see you after the meeting.”

I nodded. Kud-Ei was Guildmagister for good reason. “When do we leave and are you comfortable riding one of the stable’s horses?”

“I have preparations to make tomorrow. We’ll leave after breakfast the following day. And yes,” she admonished, “I do know how to ride a horse.”

Ardaline and I stayed up later than we should quietly speculating in the dark about what could cause the Arch Mage to call such a meeting. Once finally asleep though, my dreams were visited by visions of an evil ice mage trying to draw power from Acadian’s dragon.

*

My escort mission to the University was uneventful.

Boderi Farano was not only Palatinus of the guild’s Order of the Lamp and fellow paladin, but she had been my advisor, then mentor since I first came to the Arcane University to begin my studies. I had never kept secrets from her. Her discretion was without question and her advice always wise. It was Boderi, in fact, who maintained custody of my completed journals and memoirs. She knew about Acadian, Phantom, my godmother Azura. . . everything. No surprise then that the evening before the Arch Mage’s meeting, I had shared the details of the situation Acadian and I faced with Phantom and the choice that Kynareth was soon likely to present me. Though Boderi offered no advice better than what Kynareth had already told me, it felt good to share the situation with her.

This morning, however, I found myself making a pot of tea in Boderi’s parlour and waiting for her to return from the Arch Mage’s meeting. At length, I heard her door open. I poured cups for each of us and turned toward the door. “The tea is hot and I hope the Arch Mage had good-“ I froze as I saw Boderi. Her beautiful green skin had a gray ashen tinge and the look in her ruby eyes was one of despair.

“The news is not good, Buffy, and there is no easy way to say it,” the Dunmer began. “The Elder Council has decided to disband the guild. They’ve given Arch Mage Travin six months to complete the process.”

I managed to get the cups onto a table without spilling too much and my small butt into a chair without my knees buckling. “What could possess them to make such an absurd proclamation?!?”

Boderi’s unsteadiness was much more subtle than mine, but she slumped into a chair as well. “It would seem,” she said with a sarcastic bite to her voice, “that our successful support of the Empire during the Oblivion Crisis revealed that, when necessary, the guild can be a martial force to be reckoned with. Our reward for the brave actions of our battlemages and healers is to now be perceived as a potential threat. The Council is apparently concerned that should the guild disagree with whatever policies they might decree, that we could muster the power to unseat them.”

“Troll dung!” I exclaimed. “The guild has never attempted to interfere with the policies or politics of the Empire. Emperor Uriel understood this. So did Martin Septim. Their deaths, it seems, have dealt far-reaching and dangerous consequences to the Empire. That Elder Council is as useless as a sundial in a sandstorm.”

“Your words echo much of what we heard at the meeting, Buffy. Believe me, the Arch Mage feels as you do. Yet we are certainly not going to do what the Council fears and wage war against them. I’m afraid we have no choice but to stand down the guild and the University.”

“What’s to become of the responsible study of magic? A descent into hedge wizardry?”

“That is a possibility I suppose,” she said, “but frankly, none of us know. The overwhelming administration of this task will be shepherded by Raminus Polus.”

“Small and bitter consolation," I replied, "that Raminus is peerless at managing the myriad details that standing down the guild will require.”

“Buffy,” Boderi tried to smile, “my beautiful butterfly-dragon. Last night you asked my advice regarding the choice Kynareth may present to you and I had none for you at the time.” She sighed. “Today I would urge you to seriously consider what she may offer. I fear there are dark days ahead for the Empire.”

I nodded solemnly.

“Oh,” added Boderi, “Dagail was at the meeting and asked that you stop by the visiting Guildmagister quarters before you leave for Bravil and she for Leyawiin.”

“I’m not sure when Kud-Ei might want us to leave and, since I’ve no idea when Dagail might depart, I’d better do that straightaway.”

Boderi and I stood. I closed the two paces between us and we hugged. I couldn’t help but feel this might be the last embrace we ever share.

SubRosa asked if there's any ties to ESO which is good! I was wondering the same thing. But I'm always asking those sort of questions, and then I sometimes feel bad if that portion of the story is based on imagination, rather than the game or some mod.

Correct, I remember the Goddess of Wind & Nature is the Aedra Buffy is most akin to,.

Ah, it's Daenlin. Owner of Archer's Paradox. "Because a perfect arrow flies forever, and I have no perfect arrows..." (sheds a tear).

I'm still amazed that they had to 'force' her to sell her house. I remember from BB3 launching a bunch of questions almost to the point of interrogation about what this means, Acadian!

Cool, a trip to the AU. Yeah, the Elder Council's not too keen on Third Era policies and programs, just like political changes in real-life. Pretty sure that's how the lore actually goes, too; Mages Guild, disbanded. And so begins the slow decay of the Empire.

What a way to start this book - so much sadness and grief. But that's to be expected in the aftermath of the Oblivion Crisis - that's something that will take years, even centuries, for Cyrod to recover from. It certainly does feel like we are witnessing the dying of the once great Empire of Talos Septim.

All good things come to an end, or as Chaucer puts it: “But at the laste, as every thing hath edne”

It is no less bittersweet, however, to see Buffy visiting old friends and familiar faces in Bravil and the University.

And I wonder if the Arcane University will go underground, as the Blades did/will do, if we are following the lore of Skyrim.

This makes me want to keep reading! SGM!

It's Daenlin "the perfect arrow"!

Uh oh, the decision of the Council doesn't bode well for the future of the Mages Guild.

You left us hanging on a cliff there...I'm sure that most of us expected to read about Buffy's decision to "travel into the past", instead we got presented with another shocker - the oncoming disband of the mages guild. Maybe these events are even somehow intertwined. So now we actually got more than just one cliff-hanger.

There is some nice catching up with old friends in Bravil here. Then the portentous news that something is afoot at the Mages Guild. I wonder if this is about necromancy?

The Elder Council is going to disband the Mages Guild? What morons. It sounds like exactly the sort of thing a government would do. One that is fearful of losing its power over its own citizens.

I have to agree with Boderi when it comes to the usefulness of the Elder Council.

I wonder if Dagail might have some prophetic insight into Buffy's future. Or would that be her past? If she does indeed travel back to the Second Age, then from a vantage point in the Third Age, she has done it already!

Oh good grief! The coming disbandment of the Mages Guild feels like a gut punch even though it’s no secret in later history books. I can imagine the cascading questions and despair that such an abrupt announcement would bring. Not to mention the utter lack of confidence in the Elder Council, which Buffy already has experienced.

It was a treat to see Buffy with some of her closest friends.

Yikes! More dark days ahead, and even more loss for Buffy. Now Buffy and Ardaline’s slumber party seems bittersweet. It’s hard to imagine them giggling together under that roof again.

Hmm, I wonder what Dagail has to say to Buffy.

Well now, Buffy has things that need dealing with in two very separate eras. I hope Dagail can reveal that they are connected, and she can help one situation by sorting out the other. Or else she's going to want to be in two places at the same time, and possibly two times in the same place.

Previously- Buffy enjoyed dinner with her old archery master, Daenlin. Once settled into her guild for the evening she learned that she would be escorting Guildmagister Kud-Ei to a short notice meeting at the Arcane University for Guildmagisters and key University staff. It seemed Arch Mage Traven had a major announcement. After the meeting, Buffy was informed by Palatinus Boderi Farano that the Elder Council had directed the Arch Mage to stand down the Mages Guild and Arcane University within six months. Boderi asked Buffy to speak to Guildmagister Dagail who had also attended the meeting.

*

Renee- After losing Savlian Matius in Book 1 Buffy went to Valenwood in Book 2. Book 3 found her back in Bravil and her grieving was not going well at all. She was neglecting herself and engaging in self-destructive behavior to the point it required the ‘intervention’ she and Daenlin just discussed in our last episode to force her from her house into the guild hall and under the supervision of her guild mates. Happily, that was just what she needed at the time.

When we first started writing Book 1, Buffy’s accounts were quite accurate reflections of her game. Gradually, however, we have moved well away from that and now use her game merely as inspiration. This will continue. Her Second Era Tamriel should feel familiar to those who play ESO but we’ll take loads of liberties when it comes to specifics and mechanics. As ever, I appreciate the opportunity to answer questions about Buffy’s long history and future plans.

Rider- I’m glad you agree that it feels as if we are watching the Empire beginning to crumble. This is intentional of course, to make it easier for Buffy to feel comfortable abandoning it for Kynareth’s quest to the past. We won’t be closing the loop on what ultimately happens to the guild/University but today’s episode will shed some resolution on Kvatch’s future. Thank you for your insights.

Lopov- Sorry for the cliff hangers. We are indeed trying to simultaneously create a rather grim present to help ‘push’ Buffy away from the early 4th Era while portraying a situation in the past compelling enough to ‘pull’ Buffy into the Second Era. Thanks for bearing with us.

SubRosa- Thank you. Buffy has such a long history in Oblivion and so many dear friends there that saying goodbye will be a challenge for her. Yes, the Elder Council’s unfounded paranoia does not bode well for the Empire. Dagail - yes, let’s see what she has to share with Buffy in today’s episode.

Grits- Thank you. Gut punch is a perfect description of the Council’s decision to disband Buffy’s guild. Yes, with the prospects of Kvatch, the Mages Guild and Buffy’s dragon mare in question, things will be a bit somber for a few episodes.

ghastley- Thanks for reading! I’m afraid there’s not much Buffy can do about the Mages Guild going forward. I’d wager she’ll be able to do something about that pesky Second Era ice mage though.





Dagail was Guildmagister of the Leyawiin chapter and a very old Bosmer. I believed her to be a seer of some sort, for she knew things that seemed unknowable. She was somehow aware that my spirit was combined with that of the old paladin, Acadian. She told me I would become a paladin well before Kynareth called me. Her gift had taken a toll on her mind, however, for she routinely drifted in and out of lucidity.

I found the set of visiting Guildmagister quarters she was using. Before I could raise my hand to the door, I heard her voice, “Come in, Buffy.”

Unsurprised, I opened the door and stepped inside. Dagail was dressed in a burgundy brocade gown and her gray hair was fashionably arranged in an upswept style. The experience of numerous centuries was written in the lines upon her face. “Guildmagister, it’s good to see you again.”

Chestnut eyes returned my gaze. “Congratulations, paladin. I have not seen you and Acadian since Kynareth called you, but I knew the Divines would choose wisely.”

“Thank you. I am learning much about my new patron. Did you have a pleasant trip?” My question was motivated more by concern about her travel arrangements than idle conversation.

“Yes. My deputy Guildmagister and I shared a carriage.”

“Boderi said you wanted to see me?”

Her gentle but gnarled hands grasped mine as the old Bosmer looked into my eyes. “After Kynareth sends you to where and when you must go, seek me in the Leyawiin guild. I will be much younger then, but I will know you and how to help you.”

“I-I have not even been offered a choice about her quest yet. How do -“

“Shh, I must rest now.” With that, her eyes began to glaze. I knew further conversation would not be productive. Instead, I helped her into bed and quietly left.

As I closed Dagail’s door behind me, Kud-Ei approached. “Oh, Buffy, Boderi said I might find you here. I’m sure she told you the grim news. I must head back to Bravil immediately to notify our chapter and begin making arrangements.”

“I can retrieve your horse from Equestria and we can leave within the hour if you wish.” I found it odd that Kud-Ei was wearing a halter top, loincloth and her feet were bare.

She shook her head. “I will travel alone by swimming the river – faster, safer and an advantage of being an Argonian. You were right, I do not really require an escort. I will ask your help though.”

“What can I do, Guildmagister?” I asked.

“Follow me.” She led me into the nearby visiting quarters she was using. “Can you escort that nice mare the Bravil stable loaned me home from the University’s stable?”

“Of course. What else do you need?”

She pointed to the bed, upon which were arrayed her possessions including a mage robe, pair of sturdy shoes, several books and what appeared to be a journal. “Do you think you could get my belongings home for me? It would speed my travel greatly.”

“Of course. I’ll be back to Bravil only a day or so behind you.”

“Thank you, Buffy. I will go now.” With that, she turned and left.

I summoned my magic storage trunk. It had been a gift from Sanguine after I completed his questionable prank of magically disrobing the Countess of Leyawiin and her guests at a stuffy dinner party. As I opened it and placed Kud-Ei’s things inside, I smiled, recalling the look on Countess Caro’s face and her futile efforts to cover her naked bits. The chest allowed me to use the mage pouch of holding at my waist for quick access to only the things I might need in a hurry or more discreetly.

I closed the trunk, dispelled it and looked around. That was it. There was nothing more for me here. “Acadian, we’ll leave in the morning. I’ll say goodbye to Thernd, Equestria’s stable manager, when we pick up the mare that Kud-Ei used. We’ll tether her behind Superian for the trip back to Bravil.”

I was up the next morning before most of the University came to life. I coaxed the kitchen out of some fresh bread, soft cheese and a handful of strawberries before heading out through the main lobby. The young apprentice on duty at the reception desk was not known to me but I was greeted with, “Good morning to you, Dame Buffy.” She handed me one of several copies of the Black Horse Courrier on her desk. “The Courrier’s delivery rider just dropped these off.”

“Thank you,” I replied while glancing at the headlines. I skimmed over the lead story about my guild being dissolved, simply to verify there was nothing in it I didn’t already know. Another story caught my eye however:

Elder Council names new ruler of Kvatch!

A spokesman for the Elder Council announced late in the day that Canuvius Carvain would succeed the late Countess Odalys Goldwine and assume the mantle of leadership at Kvatch, effective immediately.

As reader’s will recall, Countess Odalys recently died after her long bout with a mysterious wasting sickness. Her illness is believed to have been contracted while a captive during the Daedric occupation of Kvatch. Daedric magic is suspected.

The name Carvain will be familiar to those who follow Cyrodiilic politics, for Canuvius is the son of Countess Narina Carvain, who has ruled Bruma for many years. Though this is young Canuvius’ first foray into a position of responsibility, he comes from a family of well-respected Imperial nobles who have lived in Cyrodiil for many generations.



I returned the Courrier to the stack it came from and looked at the apprentice busily writing in her official logbook. She was a Breton who could not have seen more than sixteen summers. What will become of you, I wonder? You, who are just beginning your journey into the arcane. Will it be truncated by the short-sighted paranoia of fools who sit on the Elder Council? What dreams do you have for the future that the guild could have helped you achieve? Finally I said, “I wish you well, Apprentice, wherever your journey takes you.”

She looked up from her task. “Thank you, Dame Buffy. . . may I ask you a question?”

“Of course,” I replied.

“My instructor said I will be unable to graduate since there is not time to complete my studies before the University has to . . . well, you know. And, you see, my family spent most of our gold for my tuition. . . .”

“Headmaster Raminus Polis is a wise and fair man. I’ve no doubt the University will return your tuition to you if they are unable to complete your studies.”

“Thank you. That will really help my family. I had hoped to learn enchanting and work as a guild mage. . . but I guess my mother knew best after all when she said I should learn to sew and become a seamstress like her.”

“Best wishes to you and your family, Apprentice.” I forced a smile to hide the bitterness I felt. Dreams, indeed.

The morning sun was still low as my feet carried me down the long and winding stone steps to Equestria in the Valley of Horses below the bridge connecting the University to the Imperial City. Acadian remarked, “At least this young Carvain is not the son of Count Bravil.”

I sighed. “I guess that’s something. I just hope he’s wise enough to listen to Sirs Mazoga and Agronak. And his court mage, Sigrid. Oh, and Lucilius Marcus, his guard force commander.”

Before long, we were on the road south again, the borrowed mare from Bravil tethered behind Superian while Kitsune loped along beside us.

“I feel like my world is going to Oblivion in an ox cart, Acadian. I don’t know how much more bad news I can take.”

“I share your trepidation, my elf, for it does indeed seem like a dark time for the Empire.”

“Speaking of time, Acadian, we have not talked about the momentous choice Kynareth may present me with. All I know for sure is that I’ll make no such decision without your counsel. Tell me your thoughts.”

“I go where you go, Buffy. And I will not second guess your path.”

“That’s reassuring of course, my old paladin, but you're evading my request.”

“I suppose I am, Buffy. The hesitancy is because my thoughts on the matter are selfish. Phantom is as precious to me as Superian is to you. . . but I know how important your wide circle of dear friends here in Cyrodiil is to you.”

“I am torn as well, Acadian. I do believe, however, that as much as I treasure my friends, family is even more important. You, I, Superian and Phantom may be the oddest family imaginable, but we are the only family we have. If Phantom's spirit is truly in danger and we must forsake the life we know here to save her, then so be it.”

“I. . . thank you, Buffy.”

Well, this was something new. There had been many times when fear or worry had wound me up to the point where I fluttered about, trying to fly up and hide in the tallest tree I could find. And, as many times, despite my sometimes lashing out at him, Acadian had calmly talked me back down to Nirn, easing my fears with just the right words. Never before, however, had I known him to be uncertain, torn over what to do. . . even a bit fearful perhaps. And it had been I who calmed him down for a change. For I could certainly feel that his trepidation had eased. It somehow made me feel better as well – something I desperately needed now.

Do Bosmer really live that long? I guess you are taking a few liberties with lore (as I am with mine . . . hmmm). I was a bit surprised by Dagail's hint that she would be quite the spry young thing when she and Buffy next meet.

I was, however, unsurprised by Kud-Ei's decision to swim back to Bravil. Of course the water route would be so much faster for her! And she always struck me as a very practical lady, even with her fancy dress.

Canuvius Carvain, huh? I must admit I'm full of memories of my own Countess Carvain, and am not sure I recall how you presented her in Buffy's world. If your Countess is similar to mine, then there is hope for Kvatch yet. Otherwise, if she is closer to the likes of Count Bravil and Countess Leyawiin, well . . .

And the latest conversation between Buffy and Acadian makes me think of the old adage about the student becoming the master, and vice versa. Yay for both!

Don't apologize, I love cliff hangers. They make me more eager for stories to come.

Looks like that Buffy is about to meet young Dagail. That will be a fantastic journey...to the past. I wonder, what the young Dagail was like. Maybe she was more sane at that time.

Though the name Carvain rang a bell, it's been obviously too long since my last visit to Cyrodiil, so I didn't make two and two together, until the name of the Countess came up. I like the segment of the article in the middle of the story plus the picture and the font change.

I too like the conversation between Buffy and Acadian at the end..

I'll admit I was expecting the Arcane University to separate from the Mages Guild, rather than close. My expectations were that the split that results in Synod and College of Whispers would be just that. The AU (theoretical magery) would become the College and the battlemages etc. (practical magery) would become the Synod. It still has time to work out that way by dissolution and reformation, but the scenario you bring out of interrupted study is an argument for Raminus doing his best to keep AU intact.

I am looking forward (backward?) to a young Dagail being a significant player in the story.

I was a little surprised too, so I searched a bit. If I read the timeline correctly, the 3rd era is around 433-years in duration. So, I looked at it this way, depending on when Dagail was born in the 2nd era she could be somewhere between 25-100 years old; teenager to young adult. That would make her around 500-years old during the Oblivion crisis. Extremely high for Bosmer, but conceivable given Dagail's condition.

ESO takes place 312 years before the end of the 2nd era. 3rd era was 433 years, as you wrote. Buffy will be going back 745 years. However, the time she'll arrive in has its calendar stuck, as it is still 2E582 after ten RL years.

For reference, Barenziah was 380 years old when she gave birth to Helseth. Divayth Fyr is in both ESO and Morrowind, (and possibly looks younger in the later era). Add in magic, and anything can happen.

And let's not forget Mannimarco/King of Worms. Guy keeps coming back like a soap opera star.

The Buffster's meeting with Dagail was direct and to the point. Clearly, Dagail's psychic abilities are as sharp as ever. I am looking forward to meeting Young Dagail, the Teenage Witch in the future, um, the past.

A trunk of holding is a handy thing to have. January is already finding her bag of holding to be invaluable.

So now we know who the new ruler of Kvatch will be. A relative of the Countess of Burma. As he is someone who was never introduced in the story (at least I do not recall if he was), I can't say I have any opinion on him one way or another. He might turn out ok, he might not. But I do not think we shall have the time to tell in this tale.

I appreciated the little scene with apprentice. Was thinking of people exactly like her: students who might never to be able to complete their training. What is going to happen to them? Are all their lives going to be derailed by the Elder Council? Will there be other options? Nature hates a vacuum, and the lack of a Mages Guild is just begging for some less than trustworthy replacement to rear its shady head. Like a magical correspondence course, that takes all your money, but teaches you nothing in return.

Ha ha I love that reaction!

Acadian: What's an example of a self-destructive behavior from your fragile elf? For my Fo3 story character it was drugs, for instance. But I know Buffy's not a skoomahead, so are there any other examples in previous books? ~ Other than neglecting her home?

Dagail is aware of Acadian, in the sense that Buffy's got an association with an unseeable entity, interesting.

Uppp, here it is. New ruler of Kvatch has been appointed. Canuvius Caravin, son of Narina. 👑 Sounds good. I have a feeling the young fellow's going to be featured in some future chapters, we'll see... Very nice layout there. Book Antigua font bumped up two sizes, really love the BHC header, too.

Sad, the part when she looks at the young Breton guildmate, and ponders what sort of future she might have. Indeed, what's to happen with all the apprentices and members who suddenly must find new futures. Good grief.

Yes indeed, the words from the paladin seem vague at best. The elf remains a bit unsure what to do. Maybe it's because the paladin doesn't want to suggest a decision until more info has been gathered. What if the paladin says "so, try doing X!" but 'X' winds up being a very wrong choice, with horrible results in the future?



I wonder this too, but for different reason. I have trouble with elves living such long lives in general (as portrayed in the single-player games, at least)! Not including Buffy, it rarely seems long-lived elves gain much wisdom over the decades, and sometimes centuries. Earana is an example. Not sure how old she is, but her face has wrinkles, so perhaps middle-aged, which according to ES lore would put her somewhere between 100 and 200 years-lld. Yet her decisions in ES4 come across as juvenile. To me, anyway.

Sorry for off-topic.

Speaking from experience dealing with people over 19 years of veterinary practice and 12 years of retail service, some people never grow up . . .

Oh wow, young Dagail as an ally in the past?! That’s so exciting! Hooray for magical Elven lifespans!

At first I thought that Kud-Ei was extending the middle spine of screw-the-dress-code after the MG closing news, but of course she had a practical reason for bare feet and a halter top.

The exchange between Buffy and Acadian at the end really shines. I absolutely loved her calm assurance. It made me think of Kynareth!

Previously- The seer Dagail urged Buffy, after Kynareth sends her to where and when she must go, to contact the much younger Dagail at the Leyawiin guild hall. Kud-Ei decided to swim back to Bravil from the University and asked Buffy to transport her belongings and borrowed mare back to Bravil. Buffy learned that the Elder Council selected Countess Bruma’s son to be the next ruler of Kvatch. Buffy left the University and headed back to Bravil.

*

Rider- Thank you! I am indeed taking some liberties with lore regarding Bosmer lifespans. In Buffy Lore, Altmer, Dunmer and Bosmer all can live 800 - 1000 years. I think the only time we’ve gotten so specific before was way back in Book 1 when Buffy was describing her dental hygiene regimen – she emphasized such care was important because her teeth could last her perhaps as long as 1000 years. I’m glad you mentioned Buffy’s conversation with Acadian as reminiscent of the student becoming the master – I had hoped for that reaction.

Lopov- Young Dagail will one of those characters who is a joy to write. I think you will enjoy her. During Book 1, we portrayed Countess Carvain similarly to how she is in the game – as a basically competent ruler. Hopefully her son will work out but we don't have plans to pursue that. Thank you!

ghastley- Thanks! Buffy will be gone before the Council’s decree about the Mages Guild and University actually manifests so there is, I suppose, a bit of wiggle room as far as how it all works out.

macole- Thank you for the comments! I envision Dagail to be about 770 years old when Buffy leaves the early Fourth Era and about twenty when Buffy next sees her in the Second Era.

SubRosa- You are right that we’ll leave Kvatch’s future open. Bags and trunks of holding are wonderful! I’m so glad you enjoyed the scene with Buffy and the young Apprentice whose arcane training will be cut short. I wanted to really put a personal face on the impact of the Council’s decision. A bit more of that impact in today’s episode. Thank you!

Renee- Thanks for your comments and questions. In Book 3, Buffy looked back on her less than successful grieving for Savlian in Bravil, describing how she drank too much wine, her lonliness made her flirt (unsuccessfully) with promiscuity, and she neglected her house. Were it not for her drive to take care of Superian and the support of Acadian, she confessed to us that she likely would have just walked out in the Niben to drown herself. Fortunately, Daenlin and Kud-Ei intervened just in time and forced her to move into her guild where they could keep an eye on her. It worked and gave her the time to mostly recover without further self-risk.

Grits- Thank you! I think that discussion between Acadian and Buffy near the end is the first time Buffy has acknowledged that she considers her family to be herself, Acadian and their dragonmare. I suppose that does limit her enemys’ ability to target her family members. Of course though, we know those she calls friend are nearly as dear to her.





It was midafternoon and starting to rain by the time I delivered the mare that Kud-Ei had asked me to return to the Bravil stable. Superian traveled in spirit form within me as my feet carried me through the town’s muddy streets to the guildhall. Not surprisingly, the mages within were long faced. I did not stop to chat though as I made my way downstairs to the guild’s large bath with its constantly circulating hot water fed by an underground spring. After a long soak, I emerged back upstairs in the robe of a mage, with my hair fully combed out to dry and loose over my shoulders.

Our two cooks were just starting to serve dinner as I joined my fellow mages at our dining table. “You know,” Delphine Jend broke the morose silence, “I’ve a mind to march right up to the Imperial City and blow up the whole damn Elder Council. Idiots!”

“And I do not doubt your ability to do so, Delphine,” Kud-Ei replied calmly. “I also have no doubt that you have the wisdom to realize that, although we each feel as you do, such a destructive display would be counterproductive and simply reinforce fears about the guild. Can you pass that bowl of pasta this way please?”

A deflated Delphine uttered, “I guess you’re probably right, Kud-Ei.” Then she added, “Bastards!”

Ita Reinus said, “In the words of the great mage Shalidor, ‘Mages are envied their power, and reviled for using it'.”

“Never more true than now,” added Carandial, pointing the piece of bread in his hand at Ita for emphasis.

Ardaline, who had been quietly pushing food around her plate asked, “Guildmagister, have you decided what we will do yet?”

Kud-Ei lowered her fork. “I want all of us to have a hand in that decision, but I propose we replace our guild signs with ones that say simply ‘Magic Emporium’ and continue to do business just like any other shoppe that deals in the arcane.”

“Guildmagister,” I asked over the rim of my goblet, “would that not readily be seen as simply skirting around the Council’s ignorant decree?”

“I don’t think so, Buffy,” replied Kud-Ei. “What the Council fears is the centralized command and control the guild exerts over a large network of mages spread across many locations.”

I could feel my anger rising. “But that command and control is exactly what enabled our battlemages and healers to provide fire support and healing to the Legion at the right times and places they needed it most during the Oblivion Crisis. Had the Legion not had such support from our guild, I can attest firsthand that the Battle for Bruma would likely have been a defeat instead of a victory.”

“Buffy has a good point, Guildmagister,” said Ardaline.

“She does indeed,” replied Kud-Ei. “Which is exactly why I believe the Council’s unfounded paranoia will not find fertile soil with my proposal. We would be a local, independent shoppe like any other. As I said though, you all deserve a hand in whatever decision we make. Alternatively, I suppose we could sell the facility and divide the proceeds to start anew in whatever endeavors each of us chooses.”

“I’ve heard enough,” declared Delphine. “Kud-Ei is right. The Magic Emporium it should be. As long as we can still sell my Enemies Explode spell.”

There were nods all around the table.

“Well that settles it,” said Kud-Ei. “There will be much coordination and work required but the path before us is clear. Now, how about some of that gorapple pie before it gets cold?”

After dinner, I conjured my lute and entertained us with a song. Its words and melody were somber but also offered hope.

It was getting late as we each straggled off to our beds. In the middle of the night, from a sound sleep, I suddenly sat straight up with a start, inadvertently knocking Kitsune to the floor.

‘What is it, Buffy?’ asked Acadian telepathically.

I glanced at the bed next to me. Ardaline had not awakened. I then whispered my response, “Kynareth wants to see me at sunrise. Along the river again.”

*

Sunrises along the Niben were beautiful and this one was no exception.

“Good morning, my paladin.”

I turned to greet Kynareth. Rather than her imposing and glowing winged presence, the Sky Goddess appeared in her more mundane form. She appeared to simply be an attractive Nordic woman with long blond plaits in a simple dress and strappy sandals that one might wear shopping around town. “Good morning, My Lady.”

“I have consulted with Akatosh,” she began, “about the possibility of having you intervene in the Second Era to stop this Drodda from destroying the last part of Phantom that we have – her spirit. He is willing to provide me the power to get you there if you are willing to accept this quest.”

“Is not each of the Divines all powerful on their own?” I asked, more from curiosity than boldness.

“No,” she replied. “Despite what many believe, our powers are not without limits. We excel at creation but do indeed have limits at manipulating those creations. Our strongest approach to such challenges is to share our power with each other when needed. I have consulted the Dragon God of Time for our contemplated time travel, just as he would consult me as the Sky Goddess if he required a thunderstorm or to block Magnus from the sky. You should know the details of what is involved before you decide to accept this quest.”

“First,” I asked, “what is the risk to both Phantom and Superian if we do not intervene?”

“Within the next year or so, Phantom’s spirit will be drained, and the last trace of her that now resides within your mare will simply cease to exist. An emotional loss, particularly for both Acadian and myself. Regarding Superian, the loss of Phantom’s spirit – as intertwined as it has become with that of your mare – would be similar to you losing the spirit of Acadian.”

My heart froze. “M-My Lady, I would perish without Acadian’s spirit fully intertwined with mine.”

“Yes,” she replied gently, “just as Superian cannot survive without Phantom.”

“Then I accept this quest.”

“Buffy, you do not yet know the risks or details.”

“My Lady, when it comes to protecting those who are precious to me, I do not count the cost.”

Kynareth nodded. “I have known that since your first encounter with Mazoga when she threatened to eat Superian. At a quarter her size, you stood toe-to-toe with a snarling orc ready to lay down your life defending your mare. You earned Mazoga’s lifelong respect that day. And mine. I just wanted you to remind yourself, for you must fully embrace this quest for it to succeed.”

“Then embrace it I shall. But I would be foolish to not understand the details in advance.”

“Let me share them with you then, starting with what can travel in time and what cannot. Acadian will travel with you of course. Your dragon mare also, as long as she is in spirit form while you actually travel through time. Any physical objects that did not exist during the Second Era, however, will be lost.”

I cringed. “My clothes, jewelry, mage pouch of holding. . . .”

"I am afraid so," she said.

A thought occurred. “What of the summonable storage trunk gifted to me by Sanguine?”

“I’m quite certain Sanguine created that well before the Second Era, so yes, it should make the trip. None of its contents will though.”

“And my summonable bow?”

“Your bow did not exist, so no. In fact, even though bows were powerful weapons, during the Second Era, they lacked the extreme range you are accustomed to. Continue your questions.”

I frowned. “How about my spells?”

“That is more complicated Buffy, for magic was very different in the Second Era. Most notably, spells cast to harm enemies did not damage allies. That is, no friendly fire; that ability was lost early in the Third Era. There have been other significant changes as well. The schools of Alteration, Restoration and Conjuration have not changed very much though, so most the spells from those schools that you already know will be available to you. Destruction has evolved a great deal but your limited ability with simple spells of that school should be fine. The biggest impact on your magic is that the school of illusion simply did not exist during the Second Era – so none of your illusion spells will serve you.”

Though I wanted to scream, ‘But I’m a troll-be-damned master illusionist and sniper!’ I restrained myself to saying, “That does present a problem, My Lady, for without illusion spells and sniping from extreme range, I question my ability to survive in combat. Certainly not at the level required to destroy a powerful ice mage.”

“Be at ease, Buffy. I can provide a weapon, spells and even some advice that I believe will serve you well.”

“Trust our Divine, Buffy,” offered Acadian. “She will not disappoint you.”

I sighed. “I think I understand what can go and what cannot.”

Kynareth nodded. “It will take several days for me to train you. That period would be a good time to plan your goodbyes. Remember our discussion about the risks inherent with time travel. I’d urge that you not share that aspect of your journey unless absolutely essential to the success of your quest.”

I nodded.

“I’d like us to meet here each morning at sunrise that we may get you trained and equipped. And Buffy?”

“Yes, My Lady.”

“I am proud of you.”

I blushed, but before I could speak she was gone.

“I am proud of you as well, Buffy,” remarked Acadian.

“Thank you. “I’m sad, excited and terrified all at the same time.”

Superian nudged me affectionately – as if she knew help was on the way for her spirit mate.

Hmmm robe of a mage, huh? Wonder if it fits better than an apprentice's robe?

I quite like the idea of a Magick Emporium to continue the work of the Bravil Mages Guild. Perhaps the Anvil Chapter can open an Apothecary Shoppe and provide healing services?

I believe I see the foundations being laid for how things work in the Second Era, from limited bow range to combat with skills versus hack and slash. Hmmm, sounds like quite the challenge! I do wonder, though, if Buffy's 2E enemies will have the reduced detection range typical of ESO baddies?

I think the possibility of mages like Delphine blowing them up might be why the Council is disbanding the Mages Guild! To think, Mannimarco spent Ages trying to destroy the guild, and those dolts did it in just a momentary act of ineptitude.

Kud-Ei not only shows that she is the right person for the job of leading the Bravil guild with her tactful disarming of Delphine's explosive proposal, but also with her long term planning. Rather than simply locking the doors to the guild house and wishing everyone a good life, she has plans to keep them together and continue on, in spite of the Elder Council. I don't see how they can complain. They would be no different from Ungarion's shop down the street. Just with more employees.

The Divines not being all powerful in your portrayal of them matches up everything I have seen of them in the game's lore. My impression is that the creation of the world sapped much of their power, leaving them little left over to take direct action on Nirn. Which is why the Daedra seem to spend more time meddling in mortal affairs than the Aedra.

And Buffy accepts the quest without even hearing what the dangers are. Of course she! That is who she is.

I liked Kynareth's explanation of the rules of time travel, and what will and will not be able to travel with Buffy back to the 2nd Age. I suspect this is due to the differing rulesets between Oblivion and ESO. But it makes for a nice in character explanation for why things will work different back in the old days.

What a scene. Delphine wants to destroy the Elder Council with her Enemies Explode spell. Kud Ei warns Jend this isn't a good idea. I have a feeling Delphine wasn't being serious though. I hope not!

Hmm, well actually, Kud Ei's suggestion might work. Continue as a business instead of a guild. This way, no one loses their jobs. Not as grand as being part of an officially-sponsored entity spreading all across the land, but this is as good as it gets, anyway.

Ha ha yeah, Enemies EXPLODE! I'm laughing, but I feel like there's a bit of foreshadowing in this conversation at their dinner table. Especially as past events have been mentioned, like the swarms of Daedra which only recently invaded the land. Can't quite see where this foreshadowing could be; which snippet of conversing it occurs within. I feel like it's there, though.

I just wonder if the council will allow this Magic Emporium to even exist, now.

Buffy knocks her fox to the floor! I've done that a few times with my cat. It's because they lie so darn close to us sometimes!

Right, Aedra are not all-powerful... It gets complicated, but lore states the Aedra were actually created by Daedra. And they aren't as omniscient and omnipotent as we think. I'm thinking in matchbook terms, though. Can't remember how it all happened in lore.

Cripes. She'll lose it all if "Yes" is pressed.



OH gosh. Yeah, this. Off-topic now, but


Anyway, how clever. So this is how the 2nd Era's going to be portrayed in Book 4. Buffy's going to need to start all over from scratch.

Kud-Ei has a sound plan that answers my curiosity about distributing Guild assets. With her leadership it seems the Bravil chapter will thrive as an independent entity. I’m pleased to think of Kud-Ei’s crew continuing in the home that they have chosen. Especially with that basement soaking tub!

I have been content to heed Kynareth’s warning not to dwell on the spiral of danger surrounding questions about time, and now she answers the important ones. Buffy will have to time travel with no sniper bow, no Illusion spells, and no wardrobe! Well at least she’ll get to keep her magic trunk and I hope enjoy loading it with Second Era fashions.

I love that Buffy accepted the quest before hearing the details and then gave this very Buffy explanation:

“My Lady, when it comes to protecting those who are precious to me, I do not count the cost.”

And now it’s a matter of days before Buffy’s world changes entirely. This is exciting!

A nice description of the dialogue between mages and their interactions with objects, placed on the table!

I bet Delphine'd love to cast Enemies explode on those, that decided to disband the guild.

It'll be exciting indeed to see Buffy in the old/new world without her trusted aid. I like it in general, when in computer games our characters, that often possess powerful weapons/spells, suddenly need to deal with some problem without these very tools, that have been so significant for them. It's definitely a challenge, but it requires one to adapt and to think in other ways.

Previously- The Bravil Mages Guild branch decided to become an independent store selling much the same services they currently do. Buffy met with Kynareth. The two agreed that getting Buffy to the Second Era was possible and that Buffy was willing to go. Kynareth then described what could and could not travel with Buffy, as well as some of the differences in how magic and combat works in the Second Era.

*

Rider- Thank you! Yes, it looks like, under Kud-Ei’s superb leadership, the Bravil guild should be able to transition to a successful independent magic shoppe. Having a bow range so long you needed to zoom in to see the target in TES 4/5 was wonderful. As I’m sure you know, Archers in ESO can do fine but more as skirmish archers instead of snipers.

SubRosa- I’m glad you agree with how wise and skilled a Guildmagister Kud-Ei is – that is exactly how I’ve tried to portray her. That episode was a nice opportunity to review the length Buffy will go to for those she holds dear, as well as review her early rocky start with Mazoga. I will try to present the game differences between TES 4/5 and ESO as ‘realistically’ as practical, but some bits just come down to ‘that’s the way it is’ or ‘hey, its magic!’. No friendly fire in ESO is a perfect example. Further, ESO is a dynamic world that evolves; everything changes over time, including the details of combat.

Combat in ESO is satisfying but quite complicated and rather gimmicky, relying on careful character building/equipping and player skill with all the mechanics. None of that writes very well/realistically, so Buffy’s combat will hopefully be recognizable to those who play ESO and definitely feel ‘TES’, but with many liberties to avoid the MMO quirks of ESO. Thanks for reading!

Renee- Though Buffy will be gone, I suspect the Magic Emporium, under Kud-Ei’s leadership, will prosper – as long as she doesn’t try to expand or franchise it out to other cities. Losing all the stuff a girl’s gotta have to travel back in time will be tough for Buffy.

Bows in the Second Era have the same range as mage staves and that is shorter than we’re used to in TES 4/5. Although there are a couple tricks to boost bow range a bit, it is still way below where a zoom in feature to see your target is necessary. You are right that relying on a bow as your only weapon in ESO is challenging and can be quite frustrating for newer players. That said, with patience, practice and careful ‘build crafting’ details, a mystic archer can be very successful in ESO. As ever, thank you for your insightful comments. Your unique perspective often causes me to really think through and reexamine things.

Grits- Thank you for quoting Buffy’s rationale for accepting the quest before she even knew the details. Yes, she is quickly learning what she’ll have available to her in the Second Era. Over the next few episodes, Buffy will choose the general type of magic she’ll use, then gain a new weapon and some spells to serve her. Then it will be time for some goodbyes as she prepares to depart for her quest.

Lopov- I enjoy weaving actions in with dialogue like trying to give life to the mages’ dinner that they were indeed having a meal while talking. Thank you! Buffy’s combat will change greatly but her challenges won’t – destroying foes while trying to keep her fragile little body intact.



As Kynareth and I gazed across the Niben watching a beautiful sunrise, she said, “Buffy, I can bestow upon you one of several blessings inspired by my domains of sky and forest. Any one of them can adequately support you in the Second Era. They are the blessings of Storm, Holy Light or Forest.”

“That sounds like a very important choice,” I replied, “and challenging because I don’t know what they entail.”

Kynareth nodded. “It is your decision, but I may be able to help guide you. Can you describe how the roles of archer, mage and healer have evolved in your life?”

“As you know, My Lady, I was trained to the bow. Given my size and lack of strength, my archery master realized I would never be able to defend myself in close quarters with melee weaponry. That’s why he brought me to the guild of mages. With Kud-Ei’s instruction in illusion and, much later, Boderi Farano’s guidance at the Arcane University, I became an effective mystic archer. Over time, I have learned that I can survive without my bow. . . but not without my spells.” She nodded encouragement for me to continue. “Since healing Sir Agronak from the brink of death after the Oblivion Crisis and becoming your paladin, I’ve come to another realization. Though I need to destroy foes that would harm those dear to me, I know now that my true calling is that of a healer.”

She replied, “As a paladin, your ability to lay on hands enables you to heal as well as any priest, and better than most restoration mages when it comes to healing sickness or mending wounds after a fight. Because of the physical bond you must establish to use it, however, it is of little use during an active battle.”

“I know,” I lamented.

“My blessings offer, to varying degrees, the ability to provide healing during combat. Would that be of interest to you?”

My eyes lit up. “More than almost anything!”

Kynareth smiled. “I already knew your answers, Buffy, but wanted them to be clear in your mind as we discuss my blessings. Shall we begin?”

“Yes, My Lady.”

“Storm is much as the name says. It offers unparalleled damage. Much like a classic wizard, you would use the raw power of lightning to destroy your foes, while relying on magical warding and self-healing to protect yourself. Though not totally lacking at protecting or healing allies in combat, it primarily embraces the concept of a solo mage destroying her foes before they can destroy her.”

“The best defense is a good offence?” I offered. “While I need the ability to vanquish my foes, I don’t fancy the lack of a robust ability to protect and heal allies.”

“I thought you might feel that way,” she said. “Forest magic offers a better balance between damage and combat healing, albeit favoring offense. This blessing calls upon the magic inherent within my forests to bring both flora and fauna to your aid. It does require some timing to use properly and you would fight alongside a forest guardian.”

“That sounds a bit busy. . . but having a guardian occupy foes while I deliver damage from range might be quite helpful,” I commented.

“A wise strategy, Buffy,” she replied, “but know that sophisticated foes will recognize the guardian for what it is and focus their ire upon the mage responsible.”

I frowned. “Much like I focus my attacks on a summoner rather than their summons.”

Kynareth nodded. “The blessing of Holy Light is inspired by the power of Magnus itself to both nurture and destroy. It offers the most robust spells for combat healing. Several of its spells offer multiple simultaneous benefits. Even its offensive abilities provide some level of support for you and your allies while still providing solid damage.

“I quite like the sound of that. Can I choose more than one blessing?” I asked.

“Yes and no,” replied Kynareth with a chuckle. “While you can learn more than one, you may only have one active at a time. Changing among them requires me to lay hands upon you, as well as a period of quiet meditation on your part. It also takes time and practice to become proficient with each; time we perhaps do not have in abundance. Let us choose one for now and focus on mastering it.”

“Acadian,” I said, “every big decision I make affects both of us, and I imagine you have some experience with Our Lady’s blessings. I’d value your counsel.”

“Buffy, I have watched you evolve and grow over the years,” he began. "While you do need a balance between healing allies and conquering foes, I know the lengths you will go to in protecting others. I believe Holy Light best suits your goals.”

“My conclusion as well, Acadian. Thank you.” I then smiled and declared, “My Lady, I would ask for your blessing of Holy Light.”

Kynareth smiled. “A wise choice, Buffy. Elegant even. Now, are you ready to set aside much of the old and learn some new things?”

“I am.” I took her lead and stood when she did.

Kynareth looked around. “This place is rather exposed considering the unfamiliar displays that some of your training will entail. Take my hand and we’re away to a grotto near my shrine in the forest west of the Imperial City.”

As I took her hand, the world wavered and changed around me. Suddenly we were in a large cavern. There were gaps overhead that allowed enough light to support numerous mosses, shrubs, grasses and even a few saplings. “We will not be disturbed here,” she said.

Ooooh, so Buffy is going to be a Templar! Having played a magplar (Templar class, magicka focus - that is, surprisingly, my ESO Argis the Bulwark), I know how much fun it is to play! And, yes, having played archers in both Oblivion and especially Skyrim, it was tough adapting to ESO archery. However, I agree that with careful build creation, it is possible to create powerful archers. I'm interested in how Buffy learns to adapt to the differences between 2E and late 3E archery.

As always, you continue to show us how Buffy and Acadian grow and adapt to different challenges. SGM!

Wait, Buffy is going to join the The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon?

Well, I know which blessing out of Storm, Holy Light or Forest January would choose...

Buffy's dual professions as archer and healer remind me of Apollo, who was also a god of archery and healing. He could take life on one hand, or save it with the other.

As soon as I read the description of Holy Light, I knew that was the one Buffy would take. It suits her best.

Like SubRosa, I also assumed that it'll be the Holy Light in the end.

Sounds like it`s time to learn before the big departure.