Another brilliant chapter. Great stuff as always, Acadian. :goodjob:

Great work! I love how lethal Buffy is at this point, it is both entertaining and helpful to read. Keep it up my friend.

~Digz~

"The bowstring was still snapping forward when my now empty hand erupted with a green aura, spiked out to my side, and fired a spell towards the skirmisher at the other end of the cavern."
This was really vivid. I could clearly see and almost feel Buffy doing this. It sounds odd, but I like how real you made the goblins seem. They screeched and howled and smelled and ate rats and splattered Buffy with blood - yuck. But you brought them to life - well... until Buffy killed them of course.

Cleverly written! :goodjob:

Two things I noticed:
I think ou missed an "e" when you described she slipped a nighteye ring on her finger.
And this one:
Surely, you meant "defined".

In Chapter 53, Buffy managed to clear the goblins from Exhausted Mine that had been plaguing Harm's Folly. Finding Kayleen's jade amulet in the bowels of the mine, she vowed to return it to Corrick Northwode. It also became clear that Buffy was anxious to head home to Bravil.

mALX- I'm so glad you enjoyed the fight details!

Subrosa- Wow! Thank you so much for all those wonderful words. I so appreciate your thoughtfully crafted comments and insights.

bobg- Thank you! Creative? You wrote the book! I've seen little Angel drop baddies with amazing brilliance when she had to. Yes, Buffy is empathic and seems to be getting more so. I think her predatory hunting instincts are safe though.

hauteecole rider- I'm so happy you enjoyed some of her tactics. The driving force of course is that she doesn't know how to use melee weapons, so some creativity is required to survive. Buffy's moral compass does spin a little sometimes, but I believe you are right that she is basically a 'good' character. Even her dark side, where there is revenge and cruelty, is usually motivated by the love she has for her friends.

Wolf- Thank you Wolf!
Buffy meeting Angel? Of course. It is their destiny. But first, she has someone else to meet - someone who is also close to your wolfish heart.
She doesn't use feather. Her strength is capped at 40. Max weight 200. Typical weight 120. Bag of Holding (BOH) is mostly for RP to keep things dry and safe or for oversize items. It is also handy when she needs to carry a special heavy item for some reason (she is lugging Peryite's Spellbreaker around now for example). Normally her BOH contains items totaling a weight of around 20. She carries loads of stuff, but not many items that weigh much. Ugh, she hates it that shoes weigh so much!
Buffy doesn't use a shield spell on Superian. She does have three 'horse' spells though - boost speed, walk on water, and command creature. With the first two, they can fly along the top of a river faster than anything in Cyrodiil. The last one can recall the mare (if in visual range) and/or have Superian or another horse tag along behind her.

Destri- Wow! Thank you for your kind words.
I'm glad the splatter of goblin blood tracing across her leathers worked. The image was very clear to me as a reminder of how much she hates and gets flustered when enemies somehow get close to her.
As to whether wisp stalk or cairn bolete grow on a spot where someone has died, I'm not sure. I know they both grow in dark places. The cavern in question was loaded with wisp stalk as the screenie shows.
Although Acadian is always there, the size of his role changes. They will have some significant 'chats' before Buffy gets to Kvatch.

Digz- Thank you so much. Buffy's lethality ebbs and flows. As I describe to Koala below, Buffy is getting more lethal at the moment and will need it soon enough.

Koala- Thank you for the kind words. The part you quoted is the synergy that results from full-on seamless integration of poison, bow and magic - what every mystic archer strives for.

Remko- Thank you!
I added the missing 'e' in the passage you found - thanks so much for pointing that out.
My use of the word divined was intentional. She devined the nature of the goblins with her spell, using these definitions of the word as a verb: -to discover or declare by divination; prophesy // -to discover by means of a divining rod // -to perceive by intuition or insight; conjecture.


* * *

Please allow me an introductory note for Chapter 54. Most of us quite adore the wonderful insight that our friend Winter Wolf brings to us. We hear him occasionally make mention of his mysterious assassin that lives in Bravil. Wolf has graced me with the keys to his high-speed, low-drag character. I have devoured the owner's manual Wolf was also kind enough to provide. When Buffy is in Bravil, you may expect her to run into Wolf's character. As Buffy returns to Bravil in this very chapter, she is honored to introduce you to Aradroth.

54 Bravil - Returning Home

It was cool enough that Superian's unlabored breathing created clouds of mist in the moonlight that drifted back to me as she walked. As the warm moisture encountered my cooler body, her breath turned to droplets. After a night of riding, I was wet and chilled.

Finally, streaks of morning sunshine began to slip between the trees and form bright cheerful beams across our path. The elusive kisses of warmth on my left side were welcome. Birds were beginning to flit and dance now, among the branches that formed a canopy above the Green Road.

We had not stopped, except for the occasional bandit or animal attack since leaving Harm's Folly. Helping Corrick had been the right thing to do, but I was aching to get home. I still had over a week before I might expect word from the Council of Mages about any help for Kvatch, and I looked forward to spending the delay in Bravil.

Gradually, the overhead canopy fell behind us, yielding to thinner forest and the occasional glimpse of Niben Bay. The sun had climbed overhead, and now fully bathed us in its delicious warmth. As the familiar walls surrounding the City of Mara came into view, my heart joined the birds overhead in song. I leaned forward to rub Superian's neck. "We're finally home, girl."

http://i668.photobucket.com/albums/vv43/Acadian6/Buffy%20I/ScreenShot233.jpg

"Hail Bu- I mean Dame Buffy!" The booming voice came from a familiar figure, clad in the chainmail of a Bravil guard. As I got closer, I could recognize the smiling Imperial standing post at the bridge to the city gates.

"And hail to you, Gladius!" I drew Superian to a stop next to the guard and slid to the ground. "That's the first and last time I expect to hear that 'Dame' stuff from you," I playfully chided. "Where did you hear such a thing anyway?"

"A legionnaire by the name of Lucilious Marcus passed through here some time ago on his way from Leyawiin to Kvatch, and spoke of you. He said they made you some sort of a knight down there. Is it true you talked Lord Leyawiin himself into sending help to Kvatch?"

"True enough I guess, Gladius. I really don't care for titles though. I just want to be a simple girl from Bravil." Holding both arms out to my sides, emphasizing my plain clothes, I pleaded, "Seriously, do I look like a knight? Just Buffy. Please?"

"Fair enough Buffy." The professional soldier's weathered face creased into a warm smile. "Welcome home."

"Thank you. . . my friend." Although the words were a little hard to say, they were justified.

I led Superian over to the Bay Roan Stables and started removing her saddle.

Gladius had killed my beautiful friend City Swimmer. The Argonian had stolen something insignificant from the church, then attacked Gladius when confronted. The guard had given City Swimmer every opportunity to yield, but she persisted in her attack. She was no match for the veteran swordsman who was forced to cut her down. I remembered drawing my bow against Gladius in anger, then realizing City Swimmer's death was her own fault - not his. I knew Slayer could not ease my grief, and yielded to the guard. Gladius had gently placed his hand upon my shoulder as I wept, with the lifeless City Swimmer in my arms. He had also been the strong arm that steadied me, and kept me from breaking down at the Argonian's simple funeral.

"Well, how's my girl?"

Startled, my thoughts of Gladius evaporated and I snapped my head towards the cheerful words. The stable hand, in rough clothes, produced an apple and offered it to Superian. He then joined me in removing the mare's tack, and grooming her.

"I'm sure she's missed you Antoine." I gave the ruddy-faced Breton a handful of gold. "She quite adores you, and the way you spoil her."

Antoine looked at the gold, then pocketed it. "You always pay more for Superian's care than you need to Buffy. I like your mare, and would treat her my best without your extra gold."

"I know that Antoine," I shrugged. "Most of my gold does indeed go for Superian's care. My needs are simple though, so I don't miss it"

* * *

As I opened the door to the Mages Guild I noticed a small figure with his back towards me, talking to Aradaline. A bow and quiver were strapped outside the black travelling cloak he wore, and his hood was drawn back upon his shoulders. As he absently ran a hand through his rather unkempt brown hair, the telltale ears of a wood elf were revealed.

Ardaline saw me as I approached and I heard her say to the Bosmer, "just a moment please." She then grinned, and quickly moved from behind her alchemy counter to give me a fierce hug. Breaking away and stepping back, the Altmer wagged a finger. "You've been gone entirely too long. Had it not been for that legionnaire stopping by and talking with the guards, we would all be worried about you."

"I know, I know," I said sheepishly. Changing the subject, I added, "who's your friend?"

"I'm sorry," said Ardaline as she now looked at the elf. "Buffy, this is Aradroth, a member of the guild that moved here to Bravil not too long ago. He was just admitted to the University. Aradroth, this is Buffy." Ardaline looked sternly at me and continued, "she lives in Bravil too, but you wouldn't know it sometimes. Buffy's a fine illusionist and about the best archer around - well, except for Daenlin of course."

"G'day Buffy, how ya going?" As the elf extended his hand, his words revealed an exotic accent I could not place. The polite smile did not match his slate gray eyes. They were cold, bored or devoid of passion - I couldn't determine which.

I offered my hand in return, but he reached past it to grip my forearm in a warrior clasp. His stature was short - less than mine even - but his hand was strong. Instinctively I grasped his forearm in return.

"Well met, Aradroth." Face to face now, I could see that under his cloak he wore a black leather raiment. It looked eerily similar to the form-fitting cat suit in my pack. The one that had been presented to me by the Dark Brotherhood. There was an elven short blade in a scabbard attached to his sword belt.

As Ardaline and Aradroth concluded their business, I placed several portions of fresh ectoplasm on Ardaline's counter. Her eyes lit up, and she produced some gold. "I see you've just cleared the chapel's undercroft again. Thank you Buffy, I was running low. Is this enough for your efforts?"

I took the gold, without really looking at it, and smiled. "Sure it is Ardaline. I only need enough to board Superian, buy a few arrows and the odd bottle of Tamika's."

Ardaline giggled. "Remember the last time we shared some Tamika's? The pillow fight and fashion show? I thought Kud-Ei was going to kill us!"

"Oh yes!" I grinned. "If Delphine had kept her mouth shut, we might have gotten everything cleaned up before-"

"Ahem." Aradroth cleared his throat, looking understandably bored. "Shock poisons?" The question, as he looked at the ectoplasm with an eyebrow raised, seemed more of a statement.

Without really thinking, I responded, "Well, that's one use, although the resulting poison can be a bit heavier than other options. Lighter weight poisons with more lethal and immobilizing effects can be created if-" Suddenly I noticed Ardaline staring at me, her mouth agape. I couldn't help but see a flicker of interest in Aradroth's eyes however. "-um, I mean, at least that's what they told me in alchemy class."

Another smile from Aradroth that did not extend to those gray eyes. He tipped two fingers to an eyebrow. "Ladies." Wheeling, he then headed for the door, pulling the hood of his cloak over his head. The lithe, effortlessly quiet exit revealed that he was no stranger to the ways of stealth.

* * *

Daenlin's face burst into a grin as I entered the Archer's Paradox. "Buffy! Welcome home, child." He grabbed both my hands and held them out to my sides as he inspected me. "You look wonderful!" He craned his head to see the quiver on my back and frowned. "Getting a mite low there don't you think?" Without giving me a chance to speak, he glanced at the wood elf in the corner of his shop who was inspecting arrows. "Have you met Aradroth?"

Finally, I pulled my hands free and gave the balding Bosmer a kiss on the cheek to shut him up. "Yes." I smiled. "I'm low on arrows, it's wonderful to be home and I've met Aradroth." I then added, "Daenlin, I need fifty elven arrows - forty of them broadheads, and ten bodkin tipped."

"That mix sounds like a beauty. I'll have the same," injected Aradroth.

Daenlin scratched his head. "Not exactly deer hunting fare, you two. Let me check my stock on the second floor."

I watched Daenlin as he climbed the stairs. The elf that had taught me the ways of an archer moved a little slower now, reflecting his advancing years. As I turned to Aradroth, I studied his face. His age was somewhere in the many decades of elven prime. I spoke first, "given your arrow selection, it seems we have more than an appetite for poisons in common, yes?"

"So it seems," Aradroth replied with unreadable eyes, and no emotion in his voice. He then cocked his head slightly. "Ardaline's a dear sheila but I believe I could learn more about the darker side of alchemy from you. Dinner? Perhaps Silverhome on the Water tonight at seven?"

I blinked, surprised at his matter of fact forwardness. Surely his interest in me couldn't be. . . no, I decided. Not with those cold, almost mean eyes. I expected his motive was the same as mine. I was full of questions as I looked at his bow and the curved elven short sword. I had no doubt he knew how to use them. Then, there was that black shrouded armor. The questions that I had however, were not for prying ears inside a busy inn. "Aradroth, I've had a very long day. How about tomorrow instead, and at my place? If you want to talk about poisons, I have a small alchemy lab in my home - right next door. Venison stew at seven?"

"Done, Buffy. I-"

"Well, you're both in luck in seems." Daenlin came down the stairs with his arms full of arrows. "Now, I've inspected each one of these." He began doling them out. "Have you heard? The archery tournament is to be held in Bravil this year, and within the week. I presume both of you will enter?"

I responded with a giggle and a curtsey. "Daenlin's Apprentice shoots where and when her old master tells her to."

"We're not talking about living targets here, so what's the point, mate?" quipped Aradroth dryly.

Daenlin looked at the younger Bosmer and frowned. "Tsk tsk." Turning to me he winked. "Buffy, I see we'll have to work on our friend here."

I see a vid in the offing, lol. Oh how interesting! Winter Wolf's character is mysterious!

Interesting! I really admire how you describe the magical effects and usage.
Thanks for the explanation of the word you used I thought was wrong. I never saw it in that context.
There was one little thing you might want to consider changing. The quantity of arrows in digits is ... well.... let's say I'm not a big fan of it. Spelling them out looks a lot better and more professional imo.

edit: could've put it more constructive. corrected

I enjoyed this very much. It is not only rich in description, but also creates a quiet, introspective moment that bridges the last chapter and this one.
It was cool enough that Superian's unlabored breathing created clouds of mist in the moonlight that drifted back to me as she walked. As the warm moisture encountered my cooler body, her breath turned to droplets. After a night of riding, I was wet and chilled.

The entire chapter in fact, is a very welcome pause in the action of late. I am glad you took the time to slow down the pace to describe Buffy's reunions with people such as Gladius, Ardaline, etc... This homecoming shows where Buffy is grounded in the world. Something I suspect will be very important to her in the future, given the foreshadowing I have been picking up upon in your comments...

So is Aradroth from Brisbun, or Melbun?

An archery tournament you say. Interesting! This makes the gears in my head churn. Look for a PM from me...



nitpicks:

I think this could be condensed into a single paragraph:
Gladius had killed my beautiful friend City Swimmer. The Argonian had stolen something insignificant from the church, then attacked Gladius when confronted. The guard had given City Swimmer every opportunity to yield, but she persisted in her attack. She was no match for the veteran swordsman who was forced to cut her down.

I remembered drawing my bow against Gladius in anger, then realizing City Swimmer's death was her own fault - not his. I knew Slayer could not ease my grief, and yielded to the guard.

Gladius had gently placed his hand upon my shoulder as I wept, with the lifeless City Swimmer in my arms. He had also been the strong arm that steadied me, and kept me from breaking down at the Argonian's simple funeral.

Like this:
Gladius had killed my beautiful friend City Swimmer. The Argonian had stolen something insignificant from the church, then attacked Gladius when confronted. The guard had given City Swimmer every opportunity to yield, but she persisted in her attack. She was no match for the veteran swordsman who was forced to cut her down. I remembered drawing my bow against Gladius in anger, then realizing City Swimmer's death was her own fault - not his. I knew Slayer could not ease my grief, and yielded to the guard. Gladius had gently placed his hand upon my shoulder as I wept, with the lifeless City Swimmer in my arms. He had also been the strong arm that steadied me, and kept me from breaking down at the Argonian's simple funeral.


As I opened the door to the Mage's Guild
No apostrophe is needed here, it is just http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Lore:Mages_Guild. I did the same thing over and over again with the Fighters Guild in the chapter I am currently working on.

A most enjoyable interlude, this.

It's nice to see Buffy interacting with old friends, like Gladius, Ardaline, and Daenlin. It really makes those characters come alive for me.



Verrry interrresting! Just one question - I'm not so familiar with Aussie speak, but is "how ya going?" typical Aussie, or rather did you mean "how ya doing?" Please clarify!

And I'm not so sure about inviting this guy into my home! :shakehead: Are you sure about this, Buffy?

I'm with hauteecole here!

Buffy: "Hey Mr. cold-eyed Wood Elf with the interest in poisons dressed in the black leathers of the Dark Brotherhood. Why don't you stop by for some venison stew?" :shifty:

It seems that Buffy has lived the last several chapters at a dead run. It was nice to see her in a quiet mood, in familiar surroundings, interacting with old friends.

Well now where to begin? This chapter was so simple yet so intriguing. I'm not going to stick to my normal post length, so let me just start by saying I loved it.

The opening few paragraphs were very well written, and pulled me right into the ride. I live in Florida and find myself used to warm weather, but lately it has been a bit chilly. As I started reading I actually stopped long enough to look around for my sweater. I enjoy that Buffy has passed the stage of anger and has come to grips with the reality of "The City Swimmer incident". It brought back memories of the event, and filled in some of the details from after the event. Not to mention hearing about Lucilious Marcus passing through, and him sharing news of Buffy, was quite fun. You introduced us to a new character, and even one not from the game , while doing so in a manner that makes me want to know even more about him. Then you left us with a little insight into the future of the story. Oh on a side note I am a huge Robin Hood fan and the tournament screams excitement to me. You manage to do all of this while not losing a single step when it comes to progressing the story, and while making Bravil feel SO much like home.

As always your skill continues to impress, and I look forward to reading more!

~Digz~

P.S. It is a little weird to invite this stranger to the house for stew. I might have just done the public dinner, and then invited him over for more discreet conversation and drinks after, but who am I to argue with the great Acadian? (just kidding)

Ohh, fantastic Acadian. :twirl:

And cheers to everybody who have already posted. My woofy heart sings with joy to have such esteemed writers as mALX, RemkoNL, SubRosa, hauteecole rider, Destri Melarg and Digz drop by and comment.

About a month ago Acadian sent me a PM and explained his idea of having an archery tournament in Bravil and about using my character. I sent him a one page character bio, and viola.

I really admire Acadian for taking on the challenge of writing about something that is outside ones comfort zone. It is one thing to use the Elder Scrolls to be the setting for a fiction story, it is another thing to write about something that exists outside the game. This shows what sort of commitment Acadian has towards challenging his own writing style. And deserves a big thumbs up. :goodjob:


Acadian is most correct to use the first version. The term 'how ya going' is emphasizing the uncultivated side of the Aussie male. The term we use is 'ocker,' which means somebody who has a low cultured upbringing and is proud to be like that.

How ya doing is only half slang, and that would almost make us seem educated. :lmao:
An Aussie convict wouldn't stand for that!!

An ARCHERY TOURNAMENT!!!

HOORAY!!!

Now all I have to do is to find out a way to sneak a look into this thread in the middle of work... :think:

AN ARCHERY TOURNAMENT? That is just too cool. It's the kind of coloring outside the lines that I have come to expect from you but am always caught up short by. A tournament! A tor-no-munt. A tournament. A ......

I laughed at the one below, and I thought it was rather clever how you made it clear where Buffy was going next

Thanks for lumping me with a bunch of very talented and skilled writers, though I have yet to post any of my own work . . .



I was wondering about that phrase. My initial reaction was, "wait, it's 'how ya doing,'" then I thought about it, realized it was an Aussie expression. Not being fluent in Aussie slang, if you will (most of what I know is from the "Mad Max" and "Crocodile Dundee" movies, with the addition of "Crikey!" from a real-life crocodile hunter, now sadly deceased), I wasn't sure if it was genuine Aussie or not. Thanks very much for the clarification.

Maybe I'll hit you up for more Aussie slang for my own Aussie characters (not TES, though), if you don't mind! :poke:

You captured Buffy's ache to come home beautifully. I could really identify with that since I too am planning a trip to visit my simple waterside home (Perth/Fremantle) soon. I liked also learning more about how Buffy thinks about money. I don't really recall her talking about that much before. Winter Wolf is right that "how ya going" is not uncommon among ockers (like my kids, ha ha).

In Chapter 54, Buffy returned home to spend time while she waited for the Council of Mages to decide about aid for Kvatch. She learned of the upcoming archery tournament. Ever the friendly and curious one, Buffy invited a mysterious new guild mate and resident of Bravil to share a meal with her the following day.

It seems perhaps Buffy's curiosity, inherent trust of guild mates and desire to make friends may be clouding her normally good judgment. I am touched to see the spider senses of several of her friends are tingling in concern. Hopefully, Buffy will listen to the unease that her paladin likely feels. Rather than me address those concerns, I will allow Buffy to discuss them in her next story.

mALX- Thank you mALX. I am trying to keep Aradroth pretty close to the manual explaining how to operate him. The book says that Nilawen suspects there may be some humanity (mermanity?) somewhere in there. If there is, Buffy will probably try to find it.

Remko- Thank you Remko! As you saw, I sought several opinions on the write out vs spell out techniques for numbers. I have decided to take your fine suggestion, with appreciation.

SubRosa- I'm so pleased you enjoyed Buffy's return to Bravil. You clearly saw everything I hoped you would.
Yes, gears turning on a tournament for archers?
I gratefully agree with, and have incorporated, your editorial insights. Thanks! :goodjob:

hautecole rider- Thank you Lady Lipizzan! I'm glad you enjoyed her interaction with old friends. As an orphan, she treasures her friends. I see Wolf answered the Aussie slang question.

Destri- Thank you! As soon as Buffy approached Bravil, I could feel her desire to slow and savor the visit. Perhaps because she expects this will be her last trip home before the dangers of Kvatch.

Digz- I'm glad you enjoyed the details of the ride into Bravil. Because you have been such a steadfast reader of her stories, my hope was that her reflection of City Swimmer's death and mention of Lucilious Marcus would stir some memories for you. I hope you will enjoy the upcoming tournament.

Wolf- Thank you so much for loaning me the keys to Aradroth. Based on some of the comments, his ability to stir things up is clear. More sparks ahead from the dark elf of mystery. :ninja:

Foxy- Archery tournament. Yes, and some of the things you have said and taught me will *shuts mouth before spoilers gush forth*

bobg- I too am amazed that Buffy can take the game fact that Daenlin is a good archer, and turn that into a major production. When I see Cyrodiil through her eyes. . . .
You realize that Anvil is near Kvatch of course.

mcbeanie- Thanks for the kind words. I'm really glad you enjoyed that passage from the Exhausted Mine. Thanks for letting me know that my tiny bit of zombie humor came through.

Koala- I'm glad you enjoyed the feeling of coming home. I hope you have a safe trip down under.
Money. Buffy has depleted her life savings twice - once for her horse, then again for her home. The things she needs and wants do not involve gold. She rarely picks up any loot to sell at all. Her mortar and pestle can keep enough of a jingle in her purse for her needs.

* * *

Chapter 55 incorporates an 'interactive image'. The link is actually the intro to an Oblivion website; the intro is all I'm interested in. I ask you to indulge me. When the link comes to you in the story, click on it. Touch/say what Buffy described. When the link leaves the intro page for the main site, that is all there is to it. In discussing what I was looking for with Leydenne, she found me the wonderful link. I hope it causes the desired effect.

55 Bravil - Yikes! What Have I Gotten Myself Into?

I stood at the end of a familiar tunnel. The wall before me was gray plaster that had been reinforced by imbedded bones and several almost complete skeletons. In the center of this wall was the arched red-brick frame of a door. The upper portion of the gray stone blocking my passage was dominated by the depiction of a large skull with empty staring eyes. Embellishing the bottom of the door was the figure of a dark-haired woman brandishing a dagger, with a small child cradled in her off arm. Four more skeletal-looking children were lined up before her as if worshipping - or perhaps surrendering to their fate.

Near the very top of the door, was an inset circle bearing the black imprint of a right hand. My fingers opened to match the symbol, and pressed against it.

The temperature dropped sharply, and a chilling whisper echoed from everywhere and nowhere. "What. . . is the color of night?"

"Sanguine, my brother." I was surprised to recognize the voice that responded as my own.

The heavy stone door slowly ground aside to the words, "Welcome home."

http://www.thedarkbrotherhood.com/

Inside the Santuary of the Dark Brotherhood, Ocheeva approached me. "Buffy, I see the Night Mother has returned you to us."

I released myself gently from Ocheeva's loving embrace. "Why am I here? I don't remember. . . ."

"How you come to us is not important." The Argonian's voice was velvety smooth. "We need you to kill someone, dear sister."

What was happening to me? "Ocheeva, I must decline. I will not kill innocent people I don't even know."

"Your family has changed, Buffy." Ocheeva's beautiful orange eyes were mesmerizing. I felt like I was falling into them. "We are now a secret arm of the Legion. They approve our contracts. We deliver the justice and vengeance that they openly cannot. You would be setting right, the atrocities suffered by those unable to defend themselves."

"Justice?" My head was spinning. "And the vampire?"

Ocheeva smiled, "he is gone."

Waking with a start, I was chilled to the bone. I donned my robe and stirred the embers in my fireplace to life with a fresh log. Sitting close to the fire, I tried to absorb its heat as I briskly rubbed my shoulders. Why do we dream?

Sithis joining ranks with the Legion? I almost laughed, but then stopped myself. Was I not running all over Cyrodiil for Savlian Matius? He was Legion. I was prepared to enter an Oblivion gate and kill whatever lay inside for him. Assassin? No. Scout/sniper for the Legion? Perhaps. I knew I thought of myself as Savlian's scout; I could do things his position would not allow of him. Oh Buffy, stop over thinking everything. That dream was likely a load of imp chips caused by eating roast mud crab before bed.

No, that wasn't quite true.

Even though I had no idea what the dream meant, I was pretty sure what had prompted it. As soon as I had invited Aradroth to dinner, a feeling of unease had come over me. I could sense that Acadian felt it too. I had tried to ignore it and fall asleep, but that clearly hadn't worked out so well.

It was almost dawn, so I filled my kettle and started heating water for tea. "Yikes! What have I gotten us into Acadian? Have I let my curiosity and desire to welcome a newcomer override my judgment? Even if Aradroth is a member of the Brotherhood, we can't hurt each other; that's what the rule book says. So, why do you and I both feel so uneasy about him? I know he's a member of the Mages Guild, and our rules preclude hurting fellow members too, right?"

Buffy, the paladin's thoughts were reflective, do you recall the names Falcar and Kalthar?

I shivered as a chill ran up my back. "Unfortunately, I do - two members of my guild who tried to kill me. I expect Fathis Aren's name would be on that list as well, if Kud-Ei hadn't intervened."

You do not know this mer to be a threat Buffy, but caution would be appropriate. You have the knowledge and tools to well protect yourself.

"You're right Acadian. Daenlin and Ardaline seem to know and accept Aradroth. . . but I will keep Slayer strung tonight and have my special power, Cobra's Dance, readied. You know, just in case."

After some fruit and cheese, washed down with more hot tea, I dressed for a hunt and left my home.

The sun was up now and I was surprised by the bustling level of activity. Strangers were everywhere. I was intercepted near the Mages Guild, right after crossing the foot bridge connecting the two halves of the city.

"Milady! Just a few septims and one of these banners can be yours." The wandering vendor held up a small green flag depicting a crossed bow and quiver. "See how the staff of the banner is a pretend arrow?" The vendor flashed a broken-toothed grin. "Wave this for your favorite bowman at the tournament. I only have a few left."

"Oh, no thank you." I returned his smile, then continued towards the guild, cheerfully trailing words behind me, "I wouldn't want to take one of your last ones."

The guild house was a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle. It seemed not many mages were interested in traveling to Bravil to see archers shoot. I was pleased to find the head of my guild alone in her quarters.

"Welcome home Buffy." Kud-Ei's orange eyes sparkled as she looked up from the book she was reading.

I melted at the sound of her soothing voice and gave her a fierce hug. My other guild mates were as brothers and sisters, but Kud-Ei was like a mother. She exuded a caring warmth and wisdom that made me proud to be one of her mages. An illusionist herself, she had inspired me to select the same specialty.

"It's so good to be home Kud-Ei," I breathed happily in her ear. Reluctantly breaking away from her arms, I added, "my, the town is certainly busy getting ready for the tourney."

"Yes, I hear that the Inns are almost full. Probably every bed in Bravil will be taken before long. I wouldn't be surprised if the inns of Faregyl, Ill Omen and even Pell's Gate fill up with visitors. Hmph, shooting sticks at bunches of straw!" She looked at the bow on my back and added, "no offense to you of course, dear." I had learned to read the smiles of Argonians by watching their eyes. Kud-Ei's smile clouded now, and she motioned to a chair next to her. "You look distracted child, what is it?"

Removing Slayer, I plopped into the seat next to Kud-Ei and sighed. Grabbing an apple from the table, I looked at it. "What do you know of this new mage, Aradroth?"

Kud-Ei's eyes opened wide. "Buffy, don't tell me you are smitten by him?"

My eyes flew open as wide as Kud-Ei's. "By Mara, no! How could you even think such a thing? He is not at all attractive you know. He is even shorter than I, and has mean eyes." I added indignantly, "and he certainly isn't very nice. In fact, he is kind of frightening. Do you know anything about him? Is he skilled with magic?"

The Argonian thought for a moment. "Well, he passed through here many weeks ago and did a fine job of getting my recommendation for the University. It seems he likes our town, because he recently returned to make it his home. Yes, there is something uncomfortable about him, but he has certainly not hurt, or threatened, any of my mages."

Kud-Ei took a sip from her ever-present tea cup. "He seems interested in illusion, but is still a novice. I gather he spends more time skulking around dangerous holes in the ground surrounding the Niben than practicing magic. Oh, and drinking ale with Nordinor over at Nilawen's store."

I set the apple down and looked at my guild head. "Thank you Kud-Ei. I'm really happy to hear that."

"Happy to hear what?" The Argonian looked confused. "That Aradroth drinks ale, clears dungeons or doesn't practice magic very much?"

Rubbing my fingers gently together, I watched as a soft emerald glow began to form in my hand. "Oh, that he's a novice with magic." I smiled and allowed the spell to dissipate.

Exiting the guild, I made my way among the venders, visitors, hopeful contestants and even the odd noble. All of this, of course, passed under the scrutiny of pickpockets and the quiet practitioners of Bravil's black market undercurrent.

Stopping by the stables, I barely recognized the approach to my city. Brightly colored banners draqed our 'Welcome to Bravil' sign. Sweating men were busy, under the late morning sun, setting up target frames and seating areas. Upon the ground, I could see rolled up tents that would soon shade the judging stand and small seating area for the nobles.

I looked forward to my archery master, Daenlin, winning the tourney again. Bravil could then return to its peaceful and overlooked rural beauty.

As I saddled Superian, I spoke with the stable hand. "Antoine, do you expect a large influx of horses for the tournament?"

"Not as many as you might think, Buffy." The Breton ably assisted getting Superian ready to ride. "It takes money for horses, and most of them wealthy noble types don't care so much for archery. Nope, they like the heavy stuff. You know, armor and swords and even lancers." He smiled reassuringly. "Don't you worry none. I'll make sure your mare's care don't suffer."

Soon enough, Superian and I were clear of the city to the south. I donned a pair of rings, then smiled as the pink glow of my dinner appeared. Sliding to the ground, I reached for Slayer.

The kill was quick and clean. Moments later, I was kneeling before the deer as I cut my arrow free. Satisfied with its condition, I wiped off the deer's blood and returned the arrow to my quiver. After field dressing the animal to reduce its weight, I looked up from the pile of entrails on the ground to the circling scavengers overhead. "Be patient, we'll be gone in a few minutes, then you can come down and have your dinner too." I silently called Superian to my side with a spell, and tied the deer to her back, just behind my saddle.

We started retracing the short trip home. I would sell a portion of the deer to Nilawen, and buy some cheap wine for cooking. Some of the meat would go to Daenlin - we often shared kills. The rest of my fresh venison would go into the stew I would share with Aradroth tonight.

I had all the necessary ingredients. Corrick Northwode, of Harm's Folly, had insisted I take a good supply of fresh potatoes, carrots, onions and leeks from his farm. Herbs and spices were in my alchemy cabinet. That worked fine as long as I didn't add nightshade or the wrong kind of mushrooms to my stew. One such mistake had made Daenlin sick for days. I now kept potions of cure poison handy when I cooked.

I remembered what Kud-Ei said about Aradroth, and felt much more confident after learning of his limitations with magic. I hoped very much to make this mysterious new guild mate feel welcome in my town.

Was it risky reaching out a friendly hand to a potentially dangerous stranger? I smiled as I recalled my first encounter with Mazoga. She also had seemed dark, mean and friendless. I had reached out to the terrifying Orc, and she had become one of my most precious friends. Oh, I would be prepared all right, but yes - such risks were worth it.

oohh, that dream at the beginning is more than a little bonechilling! Especially with that door!



I think I'm going to have to start using the term 'imp chips' in my writing too! Takes me back to my vet school days and cow-chip tossing contests!



It's spelled vendor.

Wonderful setup for that tourney! For some reason I keep waiting to see Errol Flynn and his Merry Men come swaggering through the crowd, heading for the tournament grounds! I'm excited to see what happens there!

Good girl, Buffy! Be ready for the unexpected! :ninja:

First off the interactive piece of the story was great! I loved how you made the most of the fact that this story is on the web, and thusly used the resources of the web as part of the tale. That was very imaginative! :celebration:

Ahh, back to lovely Bravil, filled with filthy hucksters now thanks to the tourney! A nice workup to what I am sure will be an exciting event. Likewise, Buffy's caution vis a vis Ardaroth shows us not only her common sense, but also her connections (as we see who she goes to in order to learn more about the mysterious stranger).

This was a lovely touch, especially because it was not meant to be dryly witty!
"Happy to hear what?" The Argonian looked confused. "That Aradroth drinks ale, clears dungeons or doesn't practice magic very much?"

I also loved this:
That worked fine as long as I didn't add nightshade or the wrong kind of mushrooms to my stew
Doh! :facepalm:


One nit to pick:

Four more skeletal looking children
I believe you want a hyphen in skeletal-looking, as the two words form a http://www.grammarbook.com/punctuation/hyphens.asp.




Well, they are Frito-Lay's highest selling snack in Cyrodiil...

The story is always better in Bravil, with her friends and "family" around her!!

Bah! SubRosa beat me to it!!

That worked fine as long as I didn't add nightshade or the wrong kind of mushrooms to my stew. One such mistake had made Daenlin sick for days. I now kept potions of cure poison handy when I cooked.

*shakes fist at Prosy Rosie*

:rofl:

Methinks a certain MALE made some boo-boos in cooking IRL...

:D

The interacive image was a real treat. It brings a new angle to show and tell !!

I feel terrible that Buffy had her sleep ruined by that annoying assassin. :flame: I shall speak to him tonight. That simply will not do.
Buffy needs her beauty sleep to be ready for the upcoming tournament....

That is a great idea to show that Buffy has the one up on him in the school of illusion. If the stupid boy steps out of line - ZAP.

Aradroth is lucky that Buffy is not a master in destruction. We might then have a barbecued Aussie !!! :rofl:

First, the interactive image really worked to bring us even more into Buffy's dream, very nicely done.

Second, this whole chapter felt like a long reflection on the wisdom of Buffy's choice from the previous chapter. It is the rare writer who can take his fan's feedback and incorporate it into a chapter that works on so many levels. Comparing dinner with Aradroth to her first meeting with Mazoga was brilliant. In coming to her own conclusions Buffy imparts her wisdom to all of us.

I loved it. Great work yet again my friend. I really can't wait for the tournament. Also, I love how you addressed everyones concerns about Aradroth you truly are amazing at what you do. The "Interactive Image" was great fun. You know I love screen shots, but this was a whole new level of fun. Lastly I agree with mALX1 the whole vibe of Bravil is amazing. Keep up the great work, and know I am looking forward to your next post.

~Digz~