Wow! I miss a few days and come back to find three new stories. To quote BSparrow addressing another writer; "you clearly have the passion".

It's great when I can read about some of the quests from the perspective of how it was that first time. So much you forget after running a quest several times. Recalling one of your early episodes, I remember Severus Snape's relief when he first found Kalthar in that fortress

I've never played a marksman but Sarrah was starting to do such things before she died so some of this has a familiar ring.

If you are interested in expanding beyond official game play, Angel would love to meet Buffy and would adore her like a sister. PM me if you are interested.

TheRancher: Very astute! She certainly did have a weak fireball at this point. Inexperience, and a habit of spamming flare in terror when cornered, took over in this case. The flare spell is better when spammed, but the weak fireball would have been better for the one shot she took. She has much to learn about magic!

Bobg and I trade PMs routinely. There may come a time when Angel makes a guest appearance.

For Buffy's other friends who graced us with their comments, thank you so much.

13 ---------- The Arcane University ----------

"I have received recommendations from all the local guild halls in Cyrodiil. You have done very well for yourself. You may now enter the University. As a full-fledged member of the Mage's Guild, I now also promote you to the rank of Apprentice, and grant you the Robe of the Apprentice." Raminus Polus smiled broadly as he gave me the robes. "Try them on. Come back as soon as you settle in and we'll talk about your program of studies."

I found a bed I could use in the crowded Mage Quarters among the other students, and tried on my new green robes. I moved a small looking glass up and down in front of me to see what I looked like, and frowned. Oh Buffy, this will never do. I looked like an elf in a green bag! I put my bow on my back. It caught in the folds. Then the baggy sleeves got in the way when I tried to grab an arrow. Finally, when I tried to walk, I almost tripped on the hem. Well, maybe it would get better. I put my bow, quiver and other stuff away and tried not to cry. What had I gotten into?

"Ah? now the real work can begin." If Raminus thought I looked silly in my green bag, he didn't say so. "What do you hope to accomplish at the University, Buffy?"

"Well, Master Wizard," I began, trying to seem older than I was. "I'm an archer. I want to study magic so I can be a better archer. I want to be able to see the signs of my enemies at great distances. I want to be able to confuse or even incapacitate them so I have the time and distance to shoot my bow. Most of all, I want to be able to make powerful magic bows."

Raminus looked up slightly, over my head at the wall behind me. Deeply in thought, he rubbed his chin for a few moments. Then his eyes met mine again. "I think I understand. Normally, I would recommend you start by having a staff made that reflects your style?. Let's hold off on that for now." Raminus continued. "There are several sections of the University that support different aspects of magic, ranging from studying arcane texts to alchemy, enchanting and, of course, spellcrafting. In addition, there are instructors who lecture on topics of their expertise. Key to all this however, is your advisor. Advisors are experienced members of the staff whose expertise relates to the goals of the students they mentor. Given your? unique aspirations Buffy, I would like you to report to Boderi Farano. She is a battlemage, and you will find her in the Mystic Archives. She will be your advisor. But it is getting late. You should rest after your long trip."

"Good morning Buffy." The Dunmer had piercing red eyes, black upswept hair and beautiful, small, gracefully curved elven ears. "I'm Boderi. Raminus told me what you hope to achieve here, and has selected me as your advisor. I think I can help you. I'm familiar with the elegant, but lethal synergies that one can create by augmenting conventional weaponry with magic. No two mages are alike. Do not let anyone try to convince you that wearing a robe and slinging fireballs is the only path for a mage. Do you have any questions before we begin crafting your path?"

Instantly, I liked Boderi. Not just because I envied her ears. I looked at her brown shirt and linen skirt. Then I looked at where my hands would be if not hidden somewhere inside my sleeves. I said hopefully, "Do I have to wear this green bag?"

Boderi chuckled and her eyes sparkled. "No, child. You may wear whatever you like; However, you will find armor and weapons are unnecessary inside the university."

I felt much better. Boderi and I then created a program of studies for me. The first step would be testing, to assess my current abilities. I would start that as soon as I got out of that green bag.

And so it began.


Boderi guided my progress, as I learned spell effects and studied in the Mystic Archives. I crafted spells in the Praxographical Center. At first, my spells were just weak ones that I could use to improve my magic skills. Later, I crafted stronger spells that had some real use and power. Learning more alchemical effects at the Lustratorium, I could make better potions and poisons. I learned to craft magical items - just rings and things that had useful effects. Boderi told me to hold off on trying to enchant a bow for now.

I settled into a 'uniform' to wear, of sorts. A brown shirt, laced leather pants and leather boots. As a result of wearing boots, we learned that I was? different. Even when I was wearing bits of light armor, my spells were just as effective as if I wore no armor at all. This was unheard of at the University. Gee, I was unique! Defective, but unique. I liked it just fine. Lots of flexibility in what I could wear!

I loved studying the old books in the Mystic Archives. Tar-Meena could make them come alive. She knew all about daedric shrines and daedra. If no one was around to hear us, I could get her to talk about necromancy. She didn't do necromancy, but she sure knew a lot about it.

And practice. And more practice. I spent hours trying to master what Boderi called "chasing my arrow." She meant shooting an arrow, then casting a spell at the target as fast as I could. Those practice targets sure got beat up by arrows and fire spells. As soon as I could do that pretty well, she made it harder. "Chasing my spell" - cast a spell at my target and follow it immediately with an arrow. I would hit the target with a soul trap spell, then shoot my arrow into the target as quickly as I could. Boderi said both techniques would serve me well.

My favorite part was what we called 'field trips'. There were some things that just couldn't be done so well inside the University. The field trips were also welcome breaks. I won several more fights in the Arena. Sneaking into the basemant of The Main Ingredient, I mapped out the Market Sewars and popped up in the alley over by Edgar's Discount Spells. Exploring and hunting Imperial Isle, I practiced my skills, both new and old.

As soon as Boderi learned that I had finally figured out how to repair magical items, she taught me how to enchant weapons. We made several magic steel bows so I could try out different enchantments on my field trips. I left my grummite bow unenchanted for now.

Most of these trips were local. One was not.

"Welcome back Buffy!" Boderi exclaimed. "I trust Bothiel ensured you received a new special power after you retrieved the parts that allowed her to repair her precious Orrery?"

"I did," I replied. "I had to wander north of the Gold Road from east of Kvatch all the way to the Abacean Sea! I certainly got plenty of bow and spell practice. Did I really need to go so far away to practice shooting bandits, wolves and boar? And I don't understand this special power at all."

"I had a couple reasons for sending you?." Boderi started.

Interrupting her I said with a laugh. "Of course you did! My advisor, my mentor, my friend. I learned a long time ago everything you do seems to have several purposes at the same time."

Boderi smiled. "Field practice with your new equipment and skills was reason enough Buffy. There are several special powers the Orerry can grant, but any of them enable you to enchant and craft spells with the effect of drain attribute. That's the other reason I sent you. I will leave discovering some of its potential to your post University studies; however, I would suggest you consider the possibilities of draining your opponents' speed."

"P?Post university studies?" My eyes flew open wide. I was not prepared for that.

"Yes Buffy." Boderi said, "You have proven yourself to be a wonderful young illusionist. Your skill with alchemy, mysticism and alteration is also quite impressive. Although not your specialties, you have gained a sound working knowledge of conjuration, destruction and restoration. You have learned to integrate magic and bow, in ways that are more effective than either alone. Most importantly however, you now have the knowledge and tools to continue your studies. Magic is a lifelong endeavor Buffy. Your formal program of study here however, is complete." Then she stood and, with feigned formality, stated, "Congratulations, Apprentice!"

She smiled. I beamed.

We hugged.

And so it ended. I knew I would be back from time to time. In fact, I already had a very specific research project in mind?.

I really like how you're developing Buffy's story. :goodjob: Your description of her encounter at Kvatch made me hope that she can return soon to help out Savlian. Nice touch with the emotional connection there.

One word: YES.

I see that you are fitting the jigsaw puzzle in place well. Buffy's qualities and the story's plotline now are working together in harmony!

Keep up the good work...

Ah, University life! My character has also just entered the Arcane. Tar-Meena was appointed as her mentor. Another great story Acadian! I will definately be interested to see Angel and Buffy meet!

Another great read but I am a little confused. It's been a long time since Angel first entered the University but I don't recall there being an option to be placed under a mentor. Is this a mod or did I totally miss something?

I'd say it's either a mod or artisitic freedom and my guess is the it's the author's freedom to make it more enjoyable to read.

I liked what you done with her education!

In my game it is role play. I usually play an older character, (and go to work for the Mages Guild) so wouldn't need a mentor - but in the game I am playing right now, (thanks to you and Acadian) my character is a young teen girl, so she can only be joining the Arcane University as a student. I am having her actually break down her studies by semester, (every level up is the end of the semester) and she has to work to pay the tuition, as she has no family that could pay for it. She has been earning the money for her tuition by vampire hunting, (selling the vampire dust). Since Tar-Meena is my character's mentor, (she) stays down in the basemant of the living quarters where Tar-Meena sleeps.

Example: one semester she is taking courses in Illusion and alchemy. During that level, I practice illusion (till I am sick of it, lol) and gather a lot of ingredients and practice alchemy - my goal is to raise my character's skill one level (novice to apprentice, etc.) per each semester. If I level up before she raises her skill to the next level - then she has not passed the course and has to re-take it. I won't let her perform any Mage Guild quests till she passes one course in each of the disciplines. (plus the mandatory remedial courses like speechcraft)

Thank you so much for reading and commenting. :twirl:

Soj: Savlian Matius affected Buffy profoundly - I'm pretty sure she meant what she said about going back.

Bobg: Having a mentor at the University is reasonable, but not scripted into the game. Raminus was wise to choose http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Oblivion:Boderi_Farano. I am flattered that mALX decided to adopt similar creative license into his play.


14 ---------- A Secret Mission ----------

I eased Superian to the side of the road, slid to the ground and stealthily continued the short distance along the Gold Road towards Ra'sava Camp. Casting a spell, three pink glows erupted near the camp - likely, two bandits and their dog. I finally had a spell to show life signs that had both the range and duration I needed. Keeping it active near potential danger was second nature now. I quietly scouted around the camp, checking for potential shooting positions. Settling on a spot, I stopped to study the moving life signs.

Satisfied, I removed the steel bow from my back and selected a poison. This was a bow that had been enchanted at the University. It would briefly frighten my target and attempt to capture their soul. I nocked an arrow, partially drew the bowstring and began to sight in on the farthest of the two humanoid glows. My skills had grown to the point that by concentrating, I could enhance my view of the target while aiming. I did so. The glow quickly came into focus as a bandit. His companion was looking away. I smoothly applied full tension to the bowstring while moving my arrow tip up and over to its final aim point. I loosed the arrow and was ready for the disconcerting sensation of my enhanced view snapping back to normal. The glow of my target extinguished within a few seconds, but the other bandit was moving quickly and erratically. I was detected!

I quickly backed out on to the road facing the bandit. She emerged from the trees about 10 paces in front of me and charged. My first arrow caused her to stop, stow her mace and begin to run away. After running about two steps, the fear enchantment wore off and the bandit turned to charge again. By then, I was ready with a second arrow, which restarted the process. I kept her dancing, confused between running away and charging until she fell to my fourth arrow. The enchantment compensated for the lower damage of this steel bow. Besides, I had better plans for my more powerful old grummite bow. And Camp Ra'sava was part of those plans.

I crept back into the brush and again, approached the camp. The dog's glow was stationary by the campfire. I enhanced my focus beyond the tip of my arrow and the dog came sharply into view. In the bandits' absence, he was helping himself to some meat on the cooking spit. I didn't mind killing the bandits, but I paused, feeling badly about this poor dog. This would give me no pleasure, but I knew he would attack me on sight. The single arrow was followed immediately by the now familiar 'whoosh' as the dog's life force went into one of my soul gems. The camp was clear.

As I emerged back on the road again, I could see Superian standing patiently where I had left her. Casting a spell on her, I turned and walked the short distance to the camp. The black mare raced up behind me and followed along.

It was late afternoon as I finished gathering firewood to augment the camp's meager supply. Camp Ra'sava was going to be home, perhaps for several days. Satisfied with the conditions of the camp, I finally sat down in front of the fire to work on my equipment and think. And wait.

I had camped here quite some time ago, on my way to earn the Anvil guild recommendation. A purplish cone of light coming down from the sky had appeared. Following the light, I discovered it was shining on some sort of white alter in front of Fort Istirius. The red cloths draqed over the alter had symbols I had seen before - on the robe of a necromancer in the bowels of Vilverin. Body parts of men or mer, in various states of decay, littered the area around the alter. Aside from being anxious to get away from that place, I hadn't thought too much of it at the time.

Much more recently, as I retrieved dwarven artifacts for Bothiel to repair her Orrery, I noticed a similar light as I was traveling from Camp Bodean to the Gottshaw Inn. At the bottom of the cone of light was an identical alter in front of Fort Linchal. This time it made a bit more sense. I had recalled reading about necromantic rituals in the Mystic Archives while at the University.

I stirred my campfire and glanced at Superian, as I remembered asking Tar-Meena about the alters.

"Sssshhh! No one talks about necromancy around here." Tar-Meena continued with the precise enunciation and expressive eyes of Argonian women. "My only interest in it is academic, but even that is discouraged." She looked around to ensure no one else could hear us. "It is refreshing actually, to talk with someone who has a similar interest in what makes those crazy black robes do what they do. Read this book and then we'll talk more." She handed me the book 'Necromancer's Moon'. "Falcar was the last one to be interested in this book but I'm beginning to think, after Deetsan sent those black soul gems to the University, maybe his interest was more than academic!"

"Thanks Tar-Meena." I whispered. "I'll come find you after I read this."
Well, things began to make sense after I read that book - more so after I talked to Tar-Meena again. I was sure those lights I saw were called 'Shade of the Revenant' and that those alters were used to make black soul gems.

I was convinced I could make my own black soul gems! Boderi, my advisor at the University, had been mystified as to why I decided not to enchant my grummite bow. I had told her it was because the weaker bows forced me to let the enchantments do most of the work. The real reason though, was crystal clear to me. Bandits had grand souls that could go into black soul gems. Grand souls had twice as much power as any others I had found to enchant with. The only creatures I had ever seen with grand souls were humanoids.

I had Tar-Meena's book with me and studied it by the campfire. I waited until after midnight, frequently looking at the sky south of the Gold Road. Be patient Buffy, maybe tomorrow.

The next day was spent hunting and checking the area between my camp and Fort Istirius for dangers. Sitting by the campfire that evening, I cooked some venison and tried to be patient. I surely hoped I had it figured out right. I rummaged in my pack to verify my three empty grand soul gems were there. I was glad I had put them into my magic bag within the pack, so they wouldn't be wasted capturing the souls of deer or wolves by mistake. I nodded off a bit and awoke with a start. Afraid I might have missed the light, I jumped up and looked to the south. There it was! Just like I remembered. Scared and excited, I quickly scrambled down the hill to Fort Istirius.

Standing under the light, I opened the cover to the alter and placed my grand soul gems inside. I remembered that part of the book: '?when the heavenly light descends from above, hasten to His altars and make your offering, so that He may bless you with but a taste of His true power. Grand Soul Gems offered to Him will be darkened?.'

Next was the part I wasn't too sure about. Was there some sort of push block on this alter, or did it just work automatically, or ?? No controls were visible. I lifted the cover and my heart sank - still 3 grand soul gems. I looked in the book again. Suddenly a phrase jumped out at me: '?cast your spells?'. That had to be it! Cast a spell at the alter! But which spell? I feverishly looked through my spell book and selected a few that seemed to maybe make sense.

Cast. Look. Repeat. I tried fire, frost, shock, turn undead, drain or damage everything I could. Nothing. I tried summoning a skeleton - I think he was laughing at me. Soul trap? Well, that was worth a try. Yes! One of my gems was now black! I quickly cast my soul trap spell two more times and grabbed my three brand new black soul gems. Even though there was no one near, I still looked around nervously and hid the gems in my magic bag. I then put the magic bag way in the bottom of my pack and started back to camp. I wondered if I could get kicked out the guild for this?

Next stop, Imperial City! I was sure there was a bandit down in the Market Sewers that would be happy to help?. Well, you know, once I explained what I needed.

Woo yeah Hoo!!! Now that's what I call realistic writing - I loved the touch where she made mistakes at first, before finding out the way to make black soul gems!

This was great, and so realistic how she wasn't sure which spell to cast! The first time I played, I found myself drawn to the pink light, and whenever I saw it would follow it in trying to figure out what it was (till I found out in the Mages Guild, lol).

(her play)

Wow. Amazing writing. In the old days, we would say that she is coming alive from the page. :woot:
Black soul gems. Yes, i need to adopt this. Thanks.

A great read Acadian, I'm really enjoying reading about your character, who has real personality, and your playing style. I wish others would include this, its always great to read about how others play their games.

Keep up the good work sir. :thumbsup:

Thank you for the kind words. :wub:

15 ---------- Slayer ----------

Daenlin turned the grummite bow over in his hands. The hands that had taught me to hunt. As he turned it, the bow would occasionally emit just the hint of a soft red glow. "Buffy, it's beautiful. Obviously, enchanted as well. What does it do?"

It felt so good to finally be back in Bravil. I had missed my town and my friends. I had missed Daenlin and the Archer's Paradox. It was after closing time, and we were seated at Daenlin's small table behind the sales counter. I smiled at the Bosmer. The flickering light from his fireplace danced on his balding head. "It will totally drain my target's speed, shock them and capture their soul." I said quietly.

Daenlin whistled softly. "Fascinating. How many arrows can it shoot before you have to recharge it?"

"Thirty two." The words were not fully out of my mouth before I regretted them. I focused intently on Daenlin's face trying to read his reaction. I began to relax a bit as he simply kept examining the bow. As wonderful a marksman as Daenlin was, he knew little of magic. Good thing too. Any mage would have quickly added things up and surmised the bow had had not been created from the soul of a simple animal.

"Buffy, this is not a hunting bow." Daenlin continued, "At least not for hunting deer. What do you call it?"

"Slayer." I matter-of-factly stated the rather ominous name.

"And what do you intend to use it for?" Daenlin pressed.

"Daenlin, my friend, my teacher..." My tone became cheerful as I deflected his question. "I don't even know how well the enchantments work yet. The beasts and bandits I encountered on the trip here from Imperial City each died with one arrow. The next time I get attacked by a boar or marauder, I might be able to tell how effective it is."

Buffy, it's so good to have you home in Bravil!" Daenlin said earnestly. "I understand you had to travel quite a bit. Did you ever run into that Altmer in Chorrol I told you about? Goes by the name of Honditar?"

"Yes." I giggled. "You were right about him. He walked up to me and said he was a mountain man and some great bow hunter. Then he told me to poison my bow to kill deer - the poison wouldn't hurt the meat. Well, I just couldn't help myself. I told him if he needed poison to kill a deer, he should give up hunting." We both burst out laughing.

"Ha! I told you he was all talk!" Daenlin's laughter finally subsided to a smile. "And do I understand we're to be neighbors?"

"Yes." I said excitedly. "You know I've had my eye on that little place next door for such a long time. Buying Superian took every septim I had. Finally though, I've been able to save up again and the house is mine."

"Well neighbor, join me for dinner and tell me all about your adventures." Daenlin said.

"It's about time you fed me! The smell from your cooking pot has been making me hungry for the last hour." Opening a bottle of cheap wine, I poured a cup for myself and another for my host. "Oh Daenlin, the University was amazing. And my travels?. Have you ever watched the sun set into the sea? Or seen waterfalls? Or looked down upon the White Tower from the Jerall Mountains? I saw an Oblivion Gate! Did you know there was snow in Bruma?"

And so it went, until two bottles of wine were gone and the fire was low. I said good night to my friend, and walked the ten paces or so home, swaying slightly from the wine. I had bought some furniture from Nilawen, including a bed that I crawled into. I was looking forward to moving the rest of my things from the guild into my new home.

http://i668.photobucket.com/albums/vv43/Acadian6/ScreenShot16.jpg

Nice bow! How did I miss Buffy's first sighting of an Oblivion Gate? I'll have to go back and re-read, I definately missed that!

Thanks. This one is Buffy's trademark mid level bow. It has been discussed alot over on the OB forums, so I thought a screenie would be nice. I am going to try and include a representative screenshot for each new story moving forward. It occured that since I am reporting in game stories instead of creating them, an appropriate screenshot is easy to apply.

Six more stories and Buffy is up to date. But hey, its the journey, not the destination.

Buffy saw the Kvatch gate back in the story "Heart of a Lion" - post 69. ^_^

Oh, OK, I had read it! That was when she wanted to help Matias but felt inadequate to do it! Sorry about that, my brain must not be functioning well today, lol.

I love your enchant spell list in the pic. It is easy to tell that Buffy is not to be messed with. !!

Currently, iam using a vampire bow of fear (drain health, demoralize & soul trap). This bow character feels heaps tougher than anything ive had before.
Just last night i had the 2 sec demoralize make a Dremora Kynval dance back and forward like a kitten and a ball of string.
It was one of those 'cool' moments that make oblivion so good.

I plan to make a drain speed bow soon. It will be interesting to see what sort of difference i find between them. Should be fun.

Great idea to add some pics. :foodndrink:

All i can say is WOW I've been away for a good few weeks (holiday) and i come back to find 4/5 new posts and i am just amazed at how much deatail, work and just pure brilliance is in each and everyone of your storys acadian. And i would think that if they didn't turn fan fics into story's, well lets just say that after reading yours they should. Well Done :tops:

Such an amazing story, have you write before this?
And nice touch with the screenie Looking forward to more chapters 5/5

A roleplaying idea I totally missed. I'm tempted to send Angel back to the university for some post graduate work. Once again, thanks Acadian for keeping her alive.

Thank you so much for reading and commenting. As I have said before, I would probably write her journal anyway, but it is so inspirational to hear your comments. :twirl:
mALX - Thanks for being Buffy's biggest fan!
Wolf - I have exchanged PMs with Wolf on some bow ideas.
Slithrine - So nice to have you back!
TheRancher - I have never written for entertainment value before.
Bobg - See? Even us old guys can learn new things sometimes!

16 ---------- Azura and the Vampire Slayer ----------

The sun was beginning to set in the Jerall Mountains. I reached into my pack and pulled out the copy of 'Modern Heretics' I had borrowed from Tar-Meena at the Mystic Archives. I turned to a key passage.

'?the times when Azura would hear petitions, from dusk to dawn, and that the offering required by Azura was glow dust?."

I put the book back in my pack and pulled out the sample of glow dust I had bought at The Main Ingredient. Then I looked at the Shrine to Azura.

The towering stone form of a woman stood before me on a round pedestal. Her arms were outstretched, a star in one hand and a crescent moon in the other. I approached Azura and placed the glow dust at her feet. Waiting, almost afraid to breathe, for what to happen?

"I have seen your name, Traveler, and heard it whispered in twilight." The feminine voice of the Daedric Prince echoed around me. "I ask a service, which holds promise of fame and reward. Many years ago, five followers slew the vampire Dratik and its kin, but all were infected by the foul creature. Knowing their fate, they sealed themselves up in the vampire's lair. Their suffering weighs heavily on me. Travel to the Gutted Mine. The door will open to you. Bring the peace of death to my followers, and you shall earn my gratitude."

I slowly walked the short distance back to the camp I had set up within sight of Azura's Shrine. I was torn between exhilaration and fear as I sat in front of my campfire to think.

I was here because Acadian had placed a blue mark on my map. I pulled out my copy of 'Modern Heretics' again.

'?quest, which, if completed, might have earned me the reward of Azura's Star, a Daedric artifact of legendary magical powers.'

Was this artifact, Azura's Star, the old paladin's purpose? I had assumed so, until I had heard Azura say the word, 'vampire'.

I honestly don't remember my father, but the stories claim he was a vampire hunter who was last heard from as he departed Bravil for Azura's Shrine. Did this have something to do with Father? Azura had seen my name? What did that mean? "Acadian, I hope you realize I have no interest in risking my life to learn my father's fate. I trust you have brought me here for a better reason than that."

I placed my bow and quiver next to where I would sleep. The campfire brightened and sparks jumped as I added another piece of wood. I then pulled off my clothes and crawled into my bedroll.

-----

The early morning sun warmed my back as I approached Gutted Mine. I pulled out the bow, Slayer. The bow had yet to be tested against a serious foe. I had never seen a vampire, but I was sure they met the criteria of being 'serious foes'. I paused, wrestling with anticipation and uncertainty. Then I cast my spell to see life signs and stealthily entered the mine.

I was undetected, and waited to adjust to the darkness of the cold mine. It smelled of ancient dust, stone and the staleness of being sealed up for many years. A straight tunnel lay before me and there was one life sign ahead - slender and vertical. At the end of the tunnel, beyond the life sign, appeared to be a soft glimmer of light - perhaps from a wall torch or sconce. I crept forward.

The thin tautness against my shin alerted me, but not before the line snapped. Quickly turning around, I threw myself to the ground and waited a few moments, trying to be very still. Lifting my face and looking back over my shoulder, I could see the two large spiked metal balls still slowly swinging from their chains. The trap had made little noise. Quietly standing up, I waited for the pounding of my heart to subside.

The life sign ahead was still calmly unaware of me. After passing between the chains, I poisoned my bow and nocked an arrow. With my bowstring partially drawn, I began to sight down the tunnel. I could see there were no obstacles between me and the definite humanoid form ahead. The range was not long, and I estimated the low ceiling of the tunnel would not preclude me from aiming slightly above my intended point of impact. I smoothly brought the tip of my arrow to bear slightly above the target while fully drawing the bowstring and loosing my arrow. The glow ahead jerked slightly as I quietly stepped back until being stopped by the spiked balls behind me. I was still undetected! I attributed part of that to Slayer's ability to briefly drain the speed from my enemies. I counted down, waiting for the poison to work. My target still glowed. I reached for a second arrow. The glow extinguished upon impact this time.

I quietly approached the spot where the life sign had been. Verifying no more glows within range, I lit a torch. On the ground was an Orc. Her face was unusual and strangely distorted. I searched her body and gathered some of the vampire dust she had emitted upon death. So this was a vampire. I put out my torch.

As I crept into the approaching small cavern, four more similar life signs began to glow from beyond the walls around me. I turned down a tunnel to my left towards two of the life signs, but quickly discovered it was a dead end. Retracing my steps, I entered the only other exit from the small cavern. Two of the life signs were very close, but separated from me by the maze of tunnel walls. I prepared to disappear if detected. Peeking around the corner, the tunnel emerged into another small cavern with two women - likely vampires. Thanking Mara that I was still undetected, I snuck back a bit to pause and figure out how to deal with this deadly threat.

Two vampires in a small cavern and nowhere to run or maneuver. Even with the enchantments on my bow, shooting one would certainly cause the other to charge. She would likely soon be joined by her wounded companion. I was pretty sure I couldn't survive that scenario.

With my bow poisoned and a plan in mind, I nervously inched forward just enough to see into the small cavern ahead. With my right hand, I cast a spell that would cause the farther of the two vampires to briefly become my ally.

The voice of a woman angrily erupted from the target of my spell, "Your presence here will not be tolerated!" She drew her blade and the two vampires were quickly locked in combat. They seemed fairly matched. I quietly backed down the tunnel away from the scene. Finally, one of the glows ceased. I was still undetected.

I crept forward closely enough to see the survivor and nocked an arrow. Loosing the arrow, I immediately cast a spell. The weakened vampire jerked, her body flooding with the green tinge of my poison. Given the very short range, she saw me and charged. The skeleton I had summoned, intercepted her as I again tried to quietly back down the tunnel. Whether finally killed by poison or my skeleton, her glow faded away.

I had lost count of how many times I had crept up and down that short tunnel, but at least I was unharmed and the vampires were dead. I was able to enter the, now clear, small cavern.

There was a wall torch in this cavern that provided a dim flicker of light. The faces of the Imperial and Nord women were clearly distorted, or disfigured. It was easier to see the vampire characteristics on these women than it had been on the Orc. The skin was oddly pale - different somehow than I would expect from just living in this dark mine. The gaunt hollowness of their lower faces made their cheekbones seem very prominent. With my thumb I lifted the upper lip of one of the women to reveal prominent canine teeth. Similarly, I raised her eyelids to see that her eyes had an unusual gold color. I would remember clearly what the face of a vampire looked like.

I could see the glows of two more likely vampires on the other side of the walls. Exploring the tiny cavern revealed only two dead ends. Finding a rope suspended from the ceiling with a handle on the end, I pulled it and moved back into the shadows. Part of the rock wall lowered, to the sounds of stone scraping on stone, emitting clouds of floating dust.

Once the dust settled, I quietly proceeded into the newly revealed tunnel until arriving in another cavern. This one was of medium size, with several sturdy wooden beams that helped support the mine's ceiling. A flickering torch was mounted on one of the beams. The two life signs were in yet another adjoining small cavern. Getting a clear shot here would be difficult. I watched patiently, studying the glowing life signs while pondering how to deal with this.

One of the vampires came into view. She appeared to be an Altmer wearing a black robe and equipped with a bow and quiver. A spell flew from the fingertips of my right hand. The vampire, now convinced that I was an ally, shouted and charged back into the small cavern to attack her companion. The glow of her life force was quickly extinguished. Her companion had not only summarily dispatched her, but had detected me as well!

I nocked an arrow as the now charging form emerged from the cavern and became visible. The impact of my arrow, along with the enchantments on Slayer, stopped the heavily armored Orc briefly. His green skin took on a deeper tinge as poison raced into his body. I quickly nocked and released a second arrow as he again charged. Again he paused, but quickly resumed his charge. Too close for another arrow, I unleashed my special power, Cobra's Dance, into his chest. Frozen in horror, I watched as he ignored the paralyze effect and extended the longsword out to his side. The Orc's waist-level horizontal swing was stopped as his longsword thudded into a nearby wooden support beam. The mountain of green flesh and heavy armor bearing down on me however, did not stop. His momentum carried both of us into the wall behind me, as my world went black.

-----

I was dreaming about the snarling face of a vampire, his hands around my throat, when I became vaguely aware that I was awake. There was a crushing weight covering me, making it difficult to breathe. Gradually becoming more aware, I struggled to move the dead Orc enough to free myself. Finally, I could sit up.

Everything hurt. I wrapped my arms around my knees and started shaking uncontrollably in the dimly lit, cold cavern. Then the tears came.

My tears finally subsided and I looked around me. I tried to move so I could search the Orc, but everything hurt. Drinking a couple of soothing potions helped some. I was then able to cast a healing spell several times that eased the pain further. Nothing seemed to be broken. I ran my hands over myself to make sure I still had all my parts. There was only a small amount of blood from around my neck and right shoulder, probably just scratches.

I felt better. I was alive! So much for your first encounter with vampires, Buffy. I shuddered as I tried to add up what it had taken to kill that Orc vampire: Whatever damage his companion did; two arrows, each with the enchanted damage from my bow; one poison; the time-released damage from Cobra's Dance. I guessed he must have finally died shortly after driving me into that wall. Otherwise, the vampire would have killed me. Worthy foes? I damn well guess they are!

I tried standing. My head started swirling and I quickly grabbed onto a support beam to steady myself. I could feel something else. Something? coursing through me, as if carried by my very blood. Something evil. I cast my healing spell several more times. My arms, legs and even my head felt better, but that strange feeling was still there. I looked at the dead vampire before me and was struck by a chilling thought. Was I a vampire now? Would I need to seal up the exit and spend eternity here in the cold tunnels of Gutted Mine? My mind raced. I remembered from my University studies that vampirism was a disease. Could it be cured? I frantically looked through my pack and produced a piece of mandrake root. I ate it, hoping it would cure this disease as it had cured other minor diseases for me. I followed its bitter taste with another soothing potion. Quickly I could feel the evil leaving my body. "Thank you, Mara." I whispered.

I turned my attention back to the Orc. I recalled him charging right through my paralyze effect. It had very nearly cost my life to learn that vampires cannot be paralyzed. A search of his body revealed an ancient parchment note around his neck. I removed it and carried it closer to the torchlight.

'My name is Ghola gro-Muzgol. My companion's names are Aranolda, Nille Elf-Daughter, Avita Cassiana, and Umar gra-Khar. The vampire Dratik died by our hands, but the price was dear. Those into whose hands we have fallen, we thank you, and pray your favor. We served Lady Azura. Bring these, our last words, to the Her Shrine. We praise Her with the full fountain of our devotion. Our destinies were written in the stars, that our souls and reason be slain, and our world lost forever. None can escape Her Fate. But let us be remembered at Her shrine, and in the hearts of Her servants. It is only by fate that any life ends, and only by chance that it is mine...not yours.'

I carefully laid his sword and shield next to the noble Orc who had come so close to killing me. "Rest now, Ghola." I said quietly.

I quickly searched the remaining alcoves of the small mine. No Breton men were among the vampires, and no other bodily remains were in the mine. Father did not perish here. I needed to leave this place.

Standing outside the door of the mine, I opened my map and stared at my location. Travel to Gutted Mine? Yes. Suddenly, I was moved only a pace or so, but Superian appeared at my side. I had to stand on one of the nearby snow covered rocks to painfully climb upon her back. She then slowly carried my still aching body back to Azura's Shrine.

I placed Ghola's parchment note at Azura's feet.

"Thank you, mortal. Their spirits are free, and henceforth, above my shrine, five bright candles shall burn forever in memory of their sacrifice. For your service, take this token, that your deeds might be entered in the Book of Fate."

There were indeed five candles above her shrine now. Holding the artifact Azura's Star in my hand, I looked questioningly at her three followers. They quickly explained its purpose and use - astounded that Azura had surrendered it to a mortal.

It would take a day or two of rest at my camp by the shrine before I would be well enough to travel safely and defend myself.

From inside my bedroll that night, I looked up at the stars filling the beautiful Cyrodiil night sky. "Thank you Acadian. I'm getting a bit better, don't you think? I mean, I was almost crushed to death and,? for a change, I didn't blame you. I'm still not quite sure whether you brought me here for Azura's Star, or some closure on Father. I see no need though, to chase after clues about my father." As I rolled over, everything still hurt. "Oh? and no more blue marks on my map for a bit. Please?"

http://i668.photobucket.com/albums/vv43/Acadian6/ScreenShot9.jpg

Amazing again Acadian with the "Oh? and no more blue marks on my map for a bit. Please?" Pure class 10/10 and its good to be back :thumbsup:

You have done an amazing amount of background research to get this quest just right. The story may be invented by the hard working people at Beth but that doesnt mean that the effort a person goes through to transcribe it is any less so. This shows your diligence and passion to the art of writing. Incredible.

Very interesting to see how Buffy dealt with those vampires of Gutted mine. Those chambers are very tight and confining with double enemies together.
It can easily trip up the novice. Very good combat strategy that you pass on.

And another pic. Buffy and Superian. Wow, she is a Bosmer cutie :twirl:

Wow the screenie's really help with the immersion 5/5 as usual.