Good work. Once again you make good use of the combat scenes to illustrate the interaction between Buffy (soon to be Dame Buffy?), and Sir Mazoga. We see not only a trust between them which was not present earlier, both in Mazoga's lack of hesitation to draw fire, but also in Buffy's placing Mazoga in a position where she can retreat and hide behind the fast-moving house of an ork. This same level of trust is also married to one of professionalism. Here we do not see two adventurers fighting near one another, but rather a well-orchestrated team fighting with one another, so that the strengths of each can nullify the weaknesses the other.

Now that we are seeing Mazoga when she is less stressed out (like at Fisherman's Rock where she was confronting the demons (daedra?) of her past), her good qualities begin to shine through. I especially liked how you portrayed her confidence in her statement to Buffy about how some men probably like skinny girls. That was beautiful.

Wow. Great stuff indeed. I really enjoyed the dialogue / banter with Mazoga.
You portrayed her perfectly.

The combat description turned out fantastic.
Our little Buffy was in a deadly and efficient mood in this chapter. The wasp hiss of air over fletching was the last thing those bandits ever knew......

Amazing as always. I love the direction their friendship has taken, and look forward to more. Your combat scenes are top of the line, and this entry was just another example of why. Keep it up my friend.

~Digz~

I don't know if the 'Mystic Archer' designation was a fortuitous choice or tremendously well researched but it is clearly a sophisticated and fascinating role. I love the realistic attitude Buffy has toward her powers and limitations. Her bond with Sir Mazoga is very natural and perfectly suited to the two of them. I suspect that Buffy will have to leave her new friend behind for the upcoming party.

I dunno, Sir Mazoga in her underwear would drive all the men wild with desire, giving Buffy the perfect opportunity to escape!

I agree that Sir Mazoga would drive all desirous men wildly.

No new story this post, but some humble thanks and comments.

I so appreciate the comments from treydog, mcbeanie, mALX, D.Foxy, SubRosa, Wolf, Digz and bobg. :wub: I noted some common thoughts so please let me try acknowledging them together.

Thanks to treydog, I was able to quickly repair some mistakes.

Blood? yes. I was surprised to realize that Buffy's avoidance of melee is not only due to her lack of strength and skill. When she has had to defend herself up close, fear has made her do what she has needed to do. She was struck by the violent and bloody fighting at Fisherman's Rock, and again when Mazoga killed a bandit in a style that reminded her of City Swimmer's death. It seems to be a combination of the gore and feeling somewhat like an observer around Mazoga that makes her so uncomfortable. I felt that drawing a stark contrast between Buffy's clean 'elegant' killing and Mazoga's explosive carnage was important. Buffy is a bit like a fighter pilot or sniper - most of her victims are nameless faceless targets, and she likes it that way - this works for her as a 'glass cannon'. Mazoga lives in the brutal world of an infantryman.

Combat in general. Thank you for several kind words here. Again, the teachings of D.Foxy have been of great help. So has being close enough to Buffy to see and feel what she does. Although the weaponry was different, my own experience has helped some as well. Melee combat descriptions are rare for a thread about a bowgirl and I tried to do them justice. I hope to mix a balance between stories that involve combat and those that involve little to none. The next story in draft has no combat at all.

Friendship with Mazoga. It is a wonderful change of pace for Buffy to have a fighting companion. I find the banter and feelings expressed largely through actions to be quite rewarding. The two ladies have learned to trust each other implicitly and can indeed work well together as SubRosa so kindly points out. Unfortunately, fighting together has its downsides. It restrains Mazoga as she waits for Buffy to slink around. It also quite disturbs Buffy to be so closely exposed to such? messy fighting. I expect they will be great friends, but ultimately Buffy is a loner and a sniper when it comes to fighting.

Mazoga being comfortable in her own skin? Buffy will find that Orc women, in general, are quite confident in their own attractiveness and envious of no one - 'tis a lesson I hope Buffy can learn.

Mystic archer. Buffy will tell you she is a bowgirl, but she is fascinated by magic. Particularly when it comes to helping her be a better archer. Since she hasn't the skill, strength or stomach for melee weapons, it is a natural fit.

Upcoming party? Thank you so much for remembering. It is indeed one of the primary reasons for Buffy's convoluted 'expedition' to Leyawiin. I must agree that this is perhaps not a mission for Mazoga. Buffy hopes to infiltrate the Court of Leyawiin.

Again, thank you so much to those who take the time to read and grace me with encouraging and helpful comments. Back to work. We must get our ladies knighted.

---------- 39 Leyawiin Expedition- Knights of the White Stallion ----------

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"Black Brugo is dead, and justice has been done!" The voice of Marious Caro echoed throughout the castle's throne room. "Guards, bring my sword that I may designate our newest member to the Court of Leyawiin. He then smiled warmly at me. Buffy, will you accept this knighthood?"

There was a soft jingle of light plate and chain as I knelt somewhat stiffly before the balding Imperial in his black and gold finery. I was still adjusting to the foreign restrictiveness of the silver armor. Despite Mazoga nearly decapitating the previous owner at Fisherman's Rock, the mithril chain had cleaned up quite well.

"As Lord of this County, and with the full authority of the Elder Council, I hereby dub you Dame Buffy, Knight Errant of the White Stallion." The tip of his sword gently touched each of my shoulders. "Rise knight, and be welcome in my court! Here is your Leyawiin shield, and one for Mazoga."

Standing, I accepted the two shields - each bore the image of a white stallion. "Thank you Milord." I then added with an expectant smile, "and Mazoga's dubbing ceremony?"

Lord Leyawiin looked at Countess Alessia Caro who wrinkled her nose almost imperceptibly. I was beginning to understand. The Count replied to me, "ah? yes. I expect Mazoga might be? uncomfortable here in the throne room. Dame Buffy, would you do me the honor of dubbing your friend?" Despite the Count's gracious attempt to mask the attitude of his Countess, awkwardness laced the air. A pair of softly crackling braziers that flanked the thrones provided the only relief to a room otherwise cloaked in silence.

So Bosmer were ok, but Orsimer were not. My mind was an explosion of thoughts. It was Mazoga that killed Black Brugo, not I. She was more of a knight than I could ever hope to become. I felt betrayed as I battled the rage welling within me. My anger wasn't really directed at the Count. I had trouble faulting him for likely loving Alessia Caro too much. What several local Khajiit and Argonians had told me about the Countess disliking certain races was true enough. How could she not see the nobility and beauty in Mazoga? I fought to prevent tears. As I struggled to compose my thoughts, I considered what Acadian might say. Finally, I broke the near silence, "I am honored that you would entrust the important task of dubbing Mazoga to this humble knight, Milord." I withdrew from the throne room.

The morning shift change had just taken place and I was heartened to see Sergeant Lucilious Marcus at his post in the great hall. I forced myself to cheer up, with the promise that I would indulge my dislike for the Countess later. "Hail Lucilious."

"Buf- I mean Dame Buffy! Congratulations on your title, as well as solvin' the mystery of our large green friend. I hear she's also to be knighted." Lucilious lowered his voice and continued, "the Countess objected to Mazoga's knighthood when it was time to sign the papers this morning, but I'm glad the Count decided not to listen to her and do the right thing. He's a good man. Did I overhear that you're to perform the ceremony?"

"Yes!" I said excitedly. "My first official act as a knight. Lucilious, I will need a sword for this. Would you assist me?"

"I'd be pleased to Milady."

As we approached Mazoga, Lucilious smiled at her. "Dame Buffy has been granted authority to knight you!"

"Dame Buffy?" Mazoga looked at me. "Gods' Ghoulies! And now you're going to make me a real knight too?"

"Yes, my friend. What would you like your title to be?"

"Sir Mazoga of course," she instantly shot back.

Confident that few would argue with her, I replied, "so be it." I mustered every bit of noble manner I could. "Will you kneel and accept this appointment to the Court of Leyawiin?"

Mazoga obediently knelt before me, bringing her eyes to a level only slightly below my own.

Lucilious drew his silver long sword. With a fluid motion of his wrist, he caused the weapon to arc and pivot about the cross-guard until the blade rested in the crook of his left arm. He then placed the grip upon his open left hand and proffered it to me.

Dazzled by the display, I grasped the weapon awkwardly in both hands. Gently, I touched the tip of the blade to each of Mazoga's broad shoulders as I declared, "with the authority granted me by his Lordship, the Count of Leywiin, I designate you a Knight Errant in the Order of the White Stallion. Henceforth, you shall be known throughout Cyrodiil as Sir Mazoga." I returned the heavy sword to its owner.

Lucilious efficiently stowed the weapon, again displaying the veteran's years of intimacy with blades. "Well, I better be gettin' back to work. Wouldn't do for the Sergeant of the Guard to be shirkin' his duty." Tipping a finger to his right eyebrow, he smiled. "Dame Buffy, Sir Mazoga." He then returned to his post.

I had lost track, over the past few days, of how many times Mazoga and I found ourselves silently staring at each other - but here we were again. Her previously intimidating big yellow fangs were quite endearing now as we both grinned. Without thinking, I hugged my friend. As her arms encircled me, I realized the danger and squeaked, "don't crush me, Sir Mazoga." My fear was unfounded however, as she gently pulled me to her. I felt safe. And oh yes, very small.

After a time, we reluctantly broke our embrace. "Dame Buffy, we're pals and we're both real knights now. You can call me Mazoga."

"Mazoga and Buffy it is! I shall still call you Sir Mazoga when others are around - you earned that title." I then gave her a key to the White Stallion Lodge and her Leyawiin shield. "There are some things you need to know about being a knight." We discussed the Count's bounty on black bows and that the primary purpose of the Order was to keep the county free of bandits. I could think of no one better suited to the task than Mazoga.

"Buffy, I'm going to go get settled in at our new digs. Maybe then go bandit hunting. How about you?"

"I'll be along Mazoga. I have some things to take care of in town first."

After Mazoga left the castle, I returned to Lucilious at his post. "Thanks. I really wanted that ceremony to be special for Mazoga, and you made it so."

The Imperial graciously nodded. "Somethin' tells me becomin' knights was more about Mazoga than you. Oh, and I think you'll be pleased to hear this. One of the guards told me that while we were dubbin' Mazoga, the Count was right here by the entrance to the throne room, watchin' with a smile on his face. No sign of the Countess though. What are you plans now Milady?"

I wasn't used to the 'milady' or 'dame' stuff, but knew it would be futile to try and dissuade this professional soldier from his protocol. I fiddled with the unfamiliar buckles on my armor as I thought. Trying to clear naked images of Allesia Caro from my head, I wanted to chose my words to Lucilious carefully. His kindness would not prevent him from arresting me if he became aware of my plans. Conspiracy to 'assault' the Countess on behalf of Sanguine was a crime, but one that was becoming more and more appealing.

Eventually, I responded to Lucilious, "well, I shall remain here in Leyawiin for a time, trying to understand courtly ways. I'm sure I will also help Sir Mazoga get settled in at the Lodge. Eventually though, I must return to Kvatch. I...."

Lucilious' eyes ignited. "Kvatch? That's my home town! What news do you have of the daedra invasion? Is Captain Matius holdin' things together up there?"

I shook my head sadly. "The place seems largely destroyed. We can't really tell though because a fiery gate from Oblivion now blocks the entrance to the city. A few survivors made it out and have set up a makeshift camp. Savlian is maintaining a barricade defense for now, but his small force is exhausted. We're trying to figure out how to close that gate and retake the city. I'm trying to get Savlian more help. I? I don't know why the Legion is reluctant to send more soldiers - Savlian has made the request several times. When I next return to the Arcane University, I intend to ask the Council of Mages for assistance. I'm also working hard to improve my own fighting skills so I may be of more help."

"Here, Milady." Lucilious handed me a small, soft cloth so I could dab away my tears. He continued passionately, "I came here from mounted patrol duty. Usually, assignment to a city guard force is a welcome break from the rigors of normal Legion life. Right now though, I'd give anything for a set of orders to Kvatch. I know I have to go where the Legion sends me and the Count of Leyawiin is a good boss and all, but still? I just wish I could help defend my home town."

"Thank you Lucilious. I have some ideas I'm working on."

Oh that one paragraph was really touching! Great job Acadian!

I like!

You showed us the Countesses racism in an excellent way, and at the same time the Count's own noble nature. Especially good was Buffy's reaction, not only her anger, but also the discipline within her that gave her the ability to frame an appropriately courtly response rather than telling the Countess to get stuffed. That is something that our Buffy lacked when this tale began so long ago. Looking back, Buffy has made quite an journey in heart and soul since those days. Quite a different person she is, and still has further to go.

:rock:

Dame Buffy!!!!

Now you have done it. Bravil is now in an uproar. Some here are forming a petition to have Buffy forbidden from ever setting foot in the city again, others are claiming it is the greatest thing to ever happen to the local community, almost putting us on the map.
Daenlin and I are doing what we can to help, but expect some problems next time you arrive back. Word is Hans Black-Nail wants to change the lock on the front gate. :lmao:

A most satisfying update. You bring your skilfull touch to the relationships between Buffy and the entire "supporting cast," giving each character a depth of personality that is impressive. You also make a worthwhile point that the Legion is strangely absent from the worst crisis since the Dragon Break- assiduously patrolling for bandits and rabid wolves on the roads, but apparently not interested in Kvatch....

Lends some credence to mALX1's idea that perhaps Ocato is not really doing his job....

I agree about the impressiveness of the section where Buffy steps on her anger at the Countess' racism, and decides that getting Mazoga her knighthood is more important than making a futile statement.... And I like the humanity you allow the Count to show.

And just because it has been a while since I last commented in this thread, don't think I haven't be reading (and frequently re reading) every post!

So much of what I wanted to say has been said already by your keen eyed, even keener witted and much wiser than Foxy constant readers, that I shall simply say -

Well done, Paladin. Please give us some more!!!

Some thanks to those who have graced me with comments, then Chapter 40 -

@mALX- Aww, thanks my friend!

@SubRosa- Thank you for your wise insights and encouragement. I am trying to use Buffy's perspective regarding the Countess of Leyawiin - she doesn't know what we know. Buffy wanted to like her, but is realizing that is quite impossible. She is confused, hurt and angry, but is learning to (sometimes) control, or at least delay, her impulsiveness.

@Wolf- Thanks for pointing out the implications of 'Dame Buffy'. She has a big heart, but didn't really think that through? Being teased by her friends in Bravil?. I shall have to bear your concerns in mind for her next visit home.

@treydog- Thank you so much for your encouraging observations and insights. The feedback you take the time to provide is so helpful in letting me know what is working. I also thank you for the hand (paw) you extended to help with a passage in my next story.

@D.Foxy- I am overwhelmed. Your steady support as a veteran writer has helped me immeasurably, since nearly my first fanfic post. Thank you so much for staying with me, it means a great deal.


---------- 40 Leyawiin Expedition- The Black Mare Lodge ----------

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"Mazoga, it's beautiful!" The small leather-bound book had the word 'Buffy' etched on the outside of the front cover. Inside it was full of blank pages. "How did you know?"

"Buffy, I noticed you like to write in that book of yours and it looked like it was getting full. I asked Bugag gro-Bol at Southern Books if he had any blank journals. It only took him an hour to put your name on the front."

I hugged Mazoga, and breathed into her ear, "It's perfect." I quickly broke away and ran outside the White Stallion Lodge. A moment later I burst back through the wooden door and held out a long sword to Mazoga. "For you!" I grinned.

As Mazoga took the green blade, a soft red glow rippled from hilt to tip. "It's magic!" she exclaimed.

"Yes. It's Black Brugo's sword. He doesn't need it anymore thanks to you," I giggled. "I took it to the mage's guild to try and learn what it does." I continued excitedly, "It's just as good as your sword but it adds fire damage. More importantly, it will hurt creatures immune to regular weapons - like wills-o-the-wisp. Remember how your sword could not hurt them? Oh, and look at the blade, up near the cross guard. I had Tun-Zeeus at The Dividing Line engrave it."

Mazoga studied the blade, and read, "Sir Mazoga." She then looked at me. I thought, for a moment, she might cry. By Mara, I thought I might cry too. "Wow, my own magic sword. Every time I kill something, I'll think of you!"

"Um, thanks Mazoga. I spoke with Agata at the guild. When the blade runs low on magical power, just take it to her and she'll fix it right up for you."

I suddenly felt hungry as I remembered the meat roasting on a spit above our outdoor cooking fire. "Let me check that venison."

A few minutes later, our table was set with a feast of venison, potatoes, carrots, bread and cheese. Mazoga and I had spent most of the day moving in and arranging things. It felt nice to finally sit down. I loved the woodsy feel, and felt very much at home in this wonderful lodge that had obviously been made for hunters.

"What's our next quest, Buffy?" Mazoga asked between noisy mouthfuls.

"I'm afraid we must soon diverge paths, Mazoga." I refilled our cups with Tamika's wine. "I have several tasks ahead, but they all lead me to Kvatch."

Mazoga stopped chewing. "Kvatch? The town cursed by an Oblvion gate? The one they say is on fire and overrun by daedra? That Kvatch?"

"The very place," I nodded. "There is a small force of guards valiantly trying to defend against that daedra portal." I pushed the images from my mind and looked my fellow knight in the eye. "Oh Mazoga, if you could see the brave man in charge trying to hold it all together up there. I? I guess you could say I've taken an oath to help him; It seems no one else will."

"Buffy, we're pals. When you helped me avenge Ra'vindra, I told you I wouldn't forget what you did for me. If your quest takes you to Kvatch, I'll come with you."

Based upon her own words, Mazoga knew the dangers of Kvatch. I could only marvel at her willingness - nay, eagerness to accept those risks and literally follow me into the jaws of Oblivion. How did she do it? And why was it so hard for me to overcome my fear of returning to Kvatch? I knew that my combat skills had improved. With more experience, I might be able to fight daedra in their own terrifying environment and survive. I was beginning to realize it was not just having my body broken that I feared - it was also my heart. And I knew of no way to train for that. "Thank you my friend, we'll see. I may ask the Count about it."

"Well you just say the word." Mazoga resumed her noisy meal. "Buffy, this 'brave man in charge' up there?. Sounds to this Orc like you're sweet on him, hmm?"

"Mazoga, I just don't know." I put my fork down. "I mean, of course I am, I think. But maybe he's? I can't tell. I'm not sure if anything can penetrate his sense of duty, or what would happen if I could." Shaking my head, I sighed, "I don't really know what he would see in me anyway."

Mazoga shook her head with a smile. "Girl, you got it bad! Just tell me his name and I'll deliver him to your bed at the point my sword!"

"Mazoga!" How could so few words make the blood rush to my face so quickly, burning even the tips of my ears? "Don't you dare! I'll certainly not tell you his name now." I indignantly took a drink of Tamika's as if to dismiss the subject.

"Ok, ok. I won't threaten your fellow." Mazoga then grinned and held up one hand disarmingly. "Just like I won't eat your horse."

My mouthful of wine sputtered across the room as I burst out laughing. I recalled the near deadly confrontation between Mazoga and I over Superian that now seemed so humorous. Finally, my laughter subsided to a giggle. "Maybe I should ask the Count if we could change White Stallion to Black Mare?."

And so it continued.

The deer head trophies mounted on the walls of the warm rustic 'Black Mare' Lodge witnessed a wonderful evening of wine and intimate conversation that lasted until the flickering candles burned low. Only then, did we begrudgingly yield to the need for sleep.

I love this line! Another great addition!!

:rofl: :rofl:
So you know; in your honour I will write a reference in my fan-fic why there are no horses in Vvardenfell.... because of the all the bloody Orcs :rofl:

mALX and RemkoNL already quoted the two magnificent passages that I was going to.

I love all the chick stuff between Sir Mazoga and Dame Buffy. Sort of a Sisterhood of the Traveling Greaves. I think you are doing an excellent job of showing us the steady process of the two bonding with one another, in a much better way than you have before. The key I think is that you have been taking your time and doing it over numerous posts, showing us a little step further every time. Because of that it feels very natural and believable.

Acadian you've done it again. I am so impressed by your skill with words.Your word choice, structure, and grammar skills never cease to amaze. The direction of the story, and the attention to detail continue to impress, and at time leave me in a state of aw. As I told you before I love the friendships that Buffy develops, and the way you handle them in order to make your story come to life. I read both the chapters since I last posted and I can't wait for more. Keep up the excellent work my friend.

~Digz~

Forum ate my post. Had to pause and do some actual work at work. Which leads to this:

Previously, I could count on your posts to be safe. I might sniffle a bit, but that could be explained. But the lines noted above.... Fortunate that I had already swallowed my water. It is obvious you have been associating with people who enjoy a certain low humor... like me.

The humor adds a shine to an already wonderful moment. The scene feels real because this is how real friends speak to each other, by turns serious and irreverent, thoughtful and teasing. And that is also how friendships (and story-telling skills) grow.

Just read them all and wanted to tell you how amazing it is.

Thumbs up from Australia. :goodjob:

The current batch of writers on this forum are insanely good, with characters that seem to rise up from the page with such believable actions and convictions.
Acadian, I shake my head in amazement. Buffy and Mazoga are no longer bound by words on the page. They are real. :twirl:

When Mazoga told Buffy that she will tag along I thought, Oh no.....
But I guess that if one person can handle her it will be our Bosmer girl.
Good luck Buffy!!

good again i thought it was a great relationship and odd one

Some comments on Ch 40, then introducing Ch 41 -

@mALX- Seeing Mazoga helplessly using an unenchanted sword against a wisp really affected Buffy. Mazoga's comment is very? Mazoga. Thank you!

@RemkoNL- Ooh, I can't wait to read that in Rales' story! Yep, Buffy adores 'her little pony' to the point of self-endangerment.

@SubRosa- Chick stuff with Mazoga is a challenge, but fun. I love your anology 'Sisterhood of the Traveling Greaves.' You are quite responsible for Buffy's title 'Dame' as well as her reference to the 'Black Mare Lodge'. Thank you so much for the support regarding the fact that I am progressing Leyawiin quite slowly. It has taken more chapters than I had envisioned and it is wonderful to hear that perhaps that choice is working well.

@Digz- Wow! I know I must sound like a broken record, but I love how you take the time to give me feedback that is both so encouraging as well as insightful into what seems to be working and how you are perceiving things. Thank you again so much!

@treydog- High praise indeed to have one express concern about wayward drinks while reading! That the combination of humor, emotion, rumination and a few other pieces made the scene feel real for you is doggie music to my ears. Wow! Thank you!

@Nummos- Thank you so much for not only taking the time to read, but to grace Buffy and I with such a nice comment! I surely hope we can continue to earn your readership.

@Wolf- G'Day! Oh my! I am so honored you feel I have been able to render Buffy and Mazoga real for you! Buffy has become quite attached to her large friend, but is still terribly uncomfortable being so close to all that sword induced carnage that seems to accompany Mazoga.

@mcbeanie- Thank you so much! The odd couple, certainly.


---------- 41 Leyawiin Expedition- The Invitation ----------

It had been less than a tenday since the twin bloodbaths of Fisherman's Rock and Telepe. Yet here I was, in black leathers, emerging from the undercroft of the Chapel of Zenithar. I knew the green puddles on the floor would simply be replaced by more ghosts within a few days; So much the better. For nearly a week I had been playing court in Castle Leyawiin without so much as nocking a single arrow. I could bear it no longer. Admittedly, I could do without the carnage of fighting alongside Mazoga, but I needed to hunt. My own way - a solitary archer releasing feathered death from the shadows.

Sated for now, I quickly changed both my clothes and mindset before leaving the chapel.

The skirt of my blue and green dress rustled softly as I walked to the castle. An invitation to one of the Countess' dinner parties seemed no closer than when I first arrived in Leyawiin. Perhaps it was a silly exercise that would bear no fruit. I owed nothing to Sanguine, the chubby Daedra Lord of debauchery. I had to admit with a smile though, the thought of 'stripping' the Countess of some of her pretensions and bigotry was quite appealing. Dressing to the Nines seemed an exciting prospect as well, until I remembered that Stark Reality would not spare its caster. Thankfully, Gaspar and I had revealed the spell's full nature during my last visit to the University, so I could plan accordingly. And plan I would, if I could ever get an invitation.

Wearing knightly armor and hanging around the guards in the throne room had gotten me nowhere. Today's plan was to wear a dress, see what I could learn from the staff and have lunch in the castle dining room.

* * *

"Milady?" The Imperial woman that had kindly brought me wine, boar broth and bread stood politely at my elbow.

I set down my spoon, smiled and looked up at her from my chair in the dining room. "Yes Janonia?" I had spoken with the pleasant chief maid earlier in the day. Her family had served Castle Leyawiin for three generations. Januarius, the Count's footman, was her husband, and they lived in the servant quarters behind the dining area.

"Countess Allesia Caro has instructed me to relay her hopes that you might speak with her this day."

"Thank you Janonia." I tried to mask my excitement. "I shall certainly report to our Ladyship straightaway." I quickly finished the light lunch, stood and smoothed my dress.

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Allesia Caro was seated at her throne. The Count was absent. I flawlessly curtseyed. The practice sessions in front of Mazoga had been worth the Orcish laughter. "Good day Milady, how may I be of service?"

"Buffy, I seem to recall from your introduction to the Count, that you are not only an archer, but trained in the use of magic as well?" Her tone was pleasant enough.

"Yes Milady. I was privileged to attend the Arcane University." I was quite unsure where this was going.

"And did you not study restoration perhaps? The art of healing?"

I nodded. "Although not my specialty, I have been forced, on many occasions to use such magic." I was still mystified.

The Countess drew up the left sleeve of her green silk blouse, revealing a festering and untreated cut on her forearm. "Can you heal this?"

"I believe I can, but I must say that I lack the skill of Tsavi, your own castle mage and healer, Milady." I sadly suspected I knew what this was about now.

The Countess leaned closer to me and softly spat the words, "she's a Khajiit!" She continued quietly, "they're as bad as Argonians. I can't get the Count to demand the guild provide a more? suitable replacement. Nevertheless, I have no intention of being touched by one of those beastly races." She sat back up and repeated, "can you heal me?"

Although stunned, I managed to force out the words, "I?I shall do my best Milady." I needed time to think. "It will take me a few moments to call forth the magical restorative energies necessary." That was a lie. What would take a few moments was for me to control myself. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, pretending to be mystical. I was so glad I had recently satisfied my need to use Slayer - it helped me resist the urge to retrieve the bow and impale this Countess to her throne. My jaw was tight and my fists were clenched. The next temptation I overcame was the desire to use a destruction instead of restoration spell.

In the midst of this silent turmoil, I sensed Acadian's calm feelings. He was not suggesting what to do. He could not read my thoughts, but had to rely on hearing my words and observing my actions, both past and present. The paladin and I both understood that the ability to heal carried with it responsibility. He knew my decision before I did. The feeling I sensed was his pride in me.

What formed in my hands was a soothing, pure mass of energy. I gently touched the Countess' wound and allowed the healing magic to flow through my fingertips from me to her. I surrendered myself to some of the pain that transferred from her injury to me. The festering cut soon closed and faded to a thin scar. After a few moments, even that disappeared with no trace of the wound at all. I stepped back from the Countess, drained from the spell, pain and battle for self-control.

Allesia Caro raised her forearm, inspecting carefully as she moved it about. "Buffy, this is perfect. Thank you." She then evaluated me for a moment. "I had no idea the extent of your talents. Archer, mage, University educated, articulate and well-read. I am hosting a dinner party tomorrow night, and should think my guests would quite enjoy talking with you. They generally live rather sheltered lives, so perhaps you could regale them with some of your knightly adventures. At any rate, would you join us?"

"I would be honored to, Milady." I curtseyed again and withdrew from the throne room.

Once out of earshot, I whispered to Acadian, "don't get carried away with the fact that I healed that harpy." Silently, I started plotting. I knew the Countess traveled periodically, visiting her mother in Chorrol. T'would be a simple matter really. A single broadhead arrow that would be attributed, no doubt, to a bandit? Stop it Buffy! Allesia Caro is not a threat. Indeed, I felt some pity for her blindness. I longed for a spell that could open her eyes.

I would not kill Allesia Caro; Humiliating her however was an entirely different matter. I would attend this dinner party. If there was any doubt about my willingness to complete Sanguine's task, it was gone.

What a wonderful and genius prelude to the Countess' dinner party. :goodjob:

And now you have tips about how she acts in the bedroom you can whisper to Buffy, lol. Great job Acadian!!!