Elder Scrolls Online - Loremaster's Archive Q&A

June 20th, 2014

Vivec and Mephala stated, "As known in the West, Mephala is the demon prince of murder, sex, and secrets. All of these themes contain subtle aspects and violent ones (assassination/genocide, courtship/orgy, tact/poetic truths); Mephala is understood paradoxically to contain and integrate these contradictory themes." How does this make him/her a "Good" Daedra? If anything, Mephala is just a "Better" Daedra. – Dylan Barnes

Divayth says: “Your question can most charitably be described as simple-minded. See my enclosed essay.”

Good morning, I'm a soldier in the army of the Ebonheart Pact, and there's Nord calling himself Bruhn Crimson Fur. He is very dumb and can't even get the basics of Four Corners of the House of Troubles, but he asked me to write this question to you. I apologize in advance, but here it is: "Hey, Dark Elf. I battled a Dremora a couple of months ago and he called his master Malog Bear, Keeper of Coldharbour since the fall of Lyg. I don’t give a damn about that Lyg, but ask that magic-pagic guy of yours if that means Molag Bear wasn't such a huge bastard before, but started out as a lowly Dremora." - Teryn Redoran

Divayth says: “Your attempts at humor are both feeble and dim. Therefore I predict a great future for you as a comedian in the cornerclubs, as you will surely appeal to the masses.”

I have often heard that Mephala's sphere of influence is obscured to mortals. Yet, from all available evidence, we can (with a fair amount of certainty) conclude that her sphere is spiders, and spiderweb-like manipulation of mortal fates, or “schemes,” to put it plainly. This sphere is, however, held by Molag Bal, the God of Schemes. Considering that Mephala is a "Good Daedra" whereas Molag Bal is a "Bad Daedra," I am curious to know if there is any known conflict between the two. – Sathron

Divayth says: “Though your question is poorly stated, there is a germ of sense in what you ask. Suffice to say that the schemes of the Prince Molag Bal, though ambitious in scale, are entirely lacking in the subtlety and nuance of those of the Webspinner.”

So I've been thinking about the Ebony blade and Ebony Mail, which are both artifacts for their respective Daedric Princes' champions. However, we know that Ebony is the blood of Lorkhan's heart solidified. How, then, is it that not one, but two Daedric Princes have artifacts specifically made from Ebony? Did Boethiah and Mephala trick Lorkhan into believing that they would both sacrifice themselves to creation and later tell Auri-El and Trinimac (after creation) when they knew that the Aedra were pissed? – Mr_Flippers

Divayth says: “Ah, the transmundane entity who jocularly styles himself ‘Mister Flippers’ deigns to grace us with a question. And a good one—as any question I cannot definitively answer is, by definition, a good question. Boethiah and Mephala are certainly among the Princes whose existence antedates the creation of the (current) Mundus, and given their natures it is beyond conjecture that they couldn’t resist meddling with said creation in some way, shape, or form. But could they ‘trick’ Lorkhan, whose very essence was chicanery? Consider: Ebony is a substance whose acquisition and use tempts mortals into acts of achievement that transcend their usual limitations. Did Lorkhan ‘intend’ this? Alas, the concept is self-referential, and therefore nugatory.”

August 1st, 2014

I was reading the book Glinting Talons, but the numerous references to light and the sun seemed out of place, given what we know about Tava being the Yokudan version of Kynareth. I was reminded of a discussion that mentioned a possible relationship between Merida and Kyne. Due to Meridia's position among the Ayleids and their cultural identification with birds and feathers, I was wondering if the book Glinting Talons purposefully drew parallels between these deities, thus making Tava the ‘missing link,’ so to speak. – Phil W.

The Unveiled Azadiyeh says: “Be not misled, O Phil, by the confused misunderstandings of the Tamrielics, whose minds are clouded by blood and darkness. Tava, as spirit of the air and goddess of weather, has dominion over all elements of sun and storm, save only for the stars, which belong to Ruptga (may praises ever follow his name). Kyne and Kynareth are but her shadows, images seen dimly through the dust of Cyrodiil and the snow of Skyrim. Of course, it is praiseworthy for the Nedelings and Nordlings to worship the gods in any manner, even if their understanding is faulty and misguided. We can but hope that they come to the True Way before Satakal returns to take us all.

As for Meridia, speak not the name of a daemon in consanguinity with that of a god. She is an intruder from beyond Mundus, and no part of our world. Go, O Phil, contemplate your mistake, and step no more upon the Path of Error.

I read somewhere that the Maormer ruler King Orgnum is said to be ‘the Serpent God of the Satakal.’ What does this mean for Yokudan mythology and history? We know the Maormer are obsessed with serpents, and Redguards are, too. Maybe there's a link between the Left-Handed Elves and the Maormer? – MareloRyan

The Unveiled Azadiyeh says: “It may be as you say, Marelo at-Ryan, for your words waft the aroma of wisdom, but as to their Full-Truth, I am unable to aver it. We speak no more of the Left-Handed Elves (may curses follow them into the Eight Abysses), for to recall their abominations but darkens our days—and who can say how many each of us shall have before Tu’whacca beckons us, save that they will be too few?

As for the Maormer, whatever their burden of association with the Sinistral Mer, they come not north of Stros M’Kai, for our fearless sea-warriors have taught them to keep well clear of the shores of Hammerfell. Orgnum, their so-called ‘Immortal Monarch,’ will find he is not so deathless at the coming of the true Satakal (may it be long from today, inevitable though it is).

Are there any other somewhat isolated Redguard communities like the Ash'abah? I also have another question, what is the official name of the nomads of Alik'r? Are they just called the Alik'r? – WaywardSwordsman

The Unveiled Azadiyeh says: “The Ash’abah, though an unclean tribe of pariahs, nonetheless perform a function blessed by Tu’whacca, and they have sibling-tribes in southern Hammerfell as well. I have heard tell of a wayward tribe of Redguards far in the chilly north known only as the Horsemen, but this may be merely legend. Then, of course, there are the Exiled Sun-Eaters of Numaneh, but to tell their tale is forbidden.”

August 28th, 2014

As a Nord, I know that my soul may end up in Sovngarde, with Shor's leave, but could my soul leave Sovngarde and go into other realms of Aetherius if I so choose, or is my soul bound within that realm? – Rhaegar Volker

Abbot Crassius Viria says, “Conjured or summoned souls of those who have passed on rarely tell of their sojourns in Aetherius, but it is the belief of our order that acts of will, such as travel, are rare where there is no need of volition. There is no choosing where there is no incentive for choice.”

In a book by Sage Svari of Fallowstone Hall, I have read that Hircine will claim the soul of any lycanthrope upon their death. That leads me to the question of who actually has 'the final say' about where the soul of a mortal goes after death, as this example would suggest that Daedric Princes have a greater say in this than Aedra have. Are there instances in which some kind of conflict between the divine forces over the soul of a mortal may occur, and if so, what would be the deciding factors in such a conflict? – Inkwolf

Abbot Crassius Viria says, “Sage Svari’s statement that Hircine ‘claims’ the souls of lycanthropes is poetic but misleading. It is the mortals themselves who decide the destinations of their souls by the choices they make during life. However, that said, there have been reports that Worm Cult necromancers have devised a way of hijacking the souls of mortals sacrificed in a certain Daedric ritual. This would be horrid, if true, but so far we have not received definite confirmation of it.”

I've noticed an unusual number of sentient, friendly ghosts during my travels through Tamriel. Do you think this has something to do with the Planemeld, or is something else at work? – Basha-jo

Abbot Crassius Viria says, “It is undeniable that the appearance of restless or unmoored spirits has increased within the last year or two—in fact, by our estimates, such apparitions are at a historical high. The fact that our world is simultaneously under assault by Daedra and the so-called ‘Dark Anchors’ is unlikely to be a coincidence. The tapestry of our reality is fraying, I fear, and the Scrolls are ambiguous as to the outcome.”

Anointed Abbot, I come with a simple question relating to a diverse and complex topic: that of facial hair and its metaphysical significance. What role do beards (and other forms of bodily hair, if applicable) play in the Cult of the Ancestor Moth, and the ancient culture of Nibenay? Do they, in some way, relate to our collective spiritual role and our place in the Aurbis? – Yours with Love and love, Vivul Maloren, of Ald-Cyrod

Abbot Crassius Viria says, “It is indeed true that most male Moth Priests sport chins that are significantly, even resplendently, hirsute, and many, various, and sundry are the mystic theories and esoteric hypotheses as to why this should be so. However, the wise student will simply reflect upon how ocular infirmity must complicate the task of shaving one’s chin.”

 

September 26, 2014

I am often confused regarding the distinction between the Fists of the Thalmor, or Justiciars, and the diplomats and nobility known as the Thalmor. Would you perhaps explain the difference between the two groups and the duties they fulfill in the Dominion? – TheAxrat

Aicantar of Shimmerene says, “The Thalmor, which was originally a bureau responsible for safeguarding Altmeri heritage, was expanded by Queen Ayrenn and now functions as the executive arm of the Aldmeri Dominion. It incorporates representatives from all three of the Dominion’s member races, in ratios appropriate to their administrative abilities. The Fists of Thalmor is an effectuation unit of officers deployed when stern measures must be taken to enforce adherence to Thalmor dicta. The Justiciars are more conventional law-enforcement officers, often local in origin and jurisdiction.”

Who are the members of the Thalmor Inner Council and why were they chosen to be a part of it?

Aicantar of Shimmerene says, “The membership of the Inner Council is personally chosen by and serves at the pleasure of Queen Ayrenn. They are said to be all individuals whom Her Majesty trusts implicitly. The exact membership is confidential, but it is no secret that the Inner Council includes King Aeradan Camoran of Valenwood and Lord Gharesh-ri, the Speaker for the Mane.

As an Imperial, I am fully aware of the bitter differences that divide the Altmer and my people. However, I wish that one day we will set aside our hatred and prejudice for each other. What will it take for our two races to coexist in peace and friendship? Do you even think it possible? – Alessandra of Cyrodiil

Aicantar of Shimmerene says, “Your question, Imperial, is either naïve or disingenuous. The Empire of Cyrodiil was founded on the blood of Elves, and battened on Elven genocide. For thousands of years central Tamriel has whelped human empires, each bloodier than the last, spreading grief and savagery to every corner of the continent. We Altmer have long stood by, patiently waiting for Men to exhaust their penchant for warfare and embrace civilized behavior, but we can no longer abet the cycle of bloodshed by abstention. Now the Aldmeri Dominion marches to Cyrodiil. There will be peace, yes—once the cancer of human imperialism is extirpated utterly. This is a nice dry wine, by the way—is it local?”

I would like to know the Thalmor's official stance on the "lesser" races, specifically the other races of Elves. Would they be allowed to join us, much like the Bosmer and Khajiit? Many thanks! – Othelion Ralnor

Aicantar of Shimmerene says, “I must assume your question is a delicate reference to the Dunmer, as the Maormer are mere pirates who are beneath all consideration. Our unfortunate cousins of Morrowind are double apostates, of course, having rejected both the Aedra and the Daedra, and have been doubly punished by divine curse for their sins of hubris and heresy. However, they do have certain, shall we say, talents that have been honed by hardship, skills that will enable them to find appropriate employment in the Tamriel-wide Dominion to come. If they trust to our wisdom and guidance, they will survive, and even thrive, as citizens of the Dominion. Once they earn that status, of course.”

October 24, 2014

“This one knows that the Bosmer pride themselves on being among the best hunters across Tamriel. This leads M'Vakhu to wonder about the prominence of the Prince of The Hunt, Hircine, in their culture (Y'ffre notwithstanding). This one could not imagine how such a people could not be tempted into serving one who seems to so inherently embody their way of life. This one appreciates your time.” – M’Vakhu

The Green Lady says, “Invocation of Hircine the Hunter can be benign and harmless, as when an archer asks him for luck when drawing a bead on a stag. Taken too far, however, the Cult of Hircine can serve as a justification for cruelty and a rationalization for oppression and murder. We saw an example of this in our own recent history, leading up to my Handfasting to the Silvenar. The Daedra exist, and when they intrude upon mortal affairs, sometimes we must deal with them—but doing so is always perilous. This is something the foolish and greedy among us often forget.”

“As many outsiders do, I find the Green Pact a bit puzzling. Two of the tenets appear to be 'eat no plants' and 'eat only meat.' These are not really the same thing. Do strict adherents to the Green Pact not consume dairy products, honey, mushrooms, or insects?” – Ravenna Brightwing

The Green Lady says, “Though the Green Pact appears simple on the surface, its doctrinal details can be baffling to outsiders, and indeed, even the wisest of our Spinners disagree on some of its aspects. The first tenet you mention would be better stated as “Harm no living plants,” and this we strive not to do, even when we sing the house-songs to the trees so they will form lodgings for us. But does it harm a living plant to eat its fallen fruit? Indeed not—in fact, in this way the plant’s seeds are spread. The second tenet you mention is better known as the Meat Mandate, but how strictly it is followed varies from tribe to tribe and, indeed, from individual to individual. However, dairy products, honey, mushrooms, and insects are eaten with zest by all but the most ultra-zealous of Pact Bosmer.”

“How powerful are the spinners and is their power limited to Valenwood? Adding thoughts to someone’s memories as it happens in the quest for the Wilderking is pretty powerful, as is seeing the stories of others by touching them or their items.”

The Green Lady says, “A Spinner’s power is in the strength of his storytelling, fostered by talent and increased by experience. As you say, a great Spinner can actually SEE the stories of the nearby world—and these stories can reveal the true natures of persons or objects. But to change a story, a Spinner must engage its protagonist, who on some level must accept the new turns in the tale.”

 

December 5, 2014

I have a question in regards to the Undaunted guild—more specifically, the size of the guild. Is it true that the Undaunted was once a large guild with a membership rivaling that of the Fighters Guild and the Mages Guild combined? – Runs-In-Mud

Turuk Redclaws says, “This one does not know how many members the Fighters and Mages Guild boast, though Turuk has heard they possess a much higher retention of new recruits. Let them have it. Life is easier for mercenaries and lunatics in dresses. No offense to mercenaries and lunatics in dresses—the Undaunted have many of those.”

“As to your specific question, membership in the Undaunted waxes and wanes like the Moons. In fair weather, there is always a surge of interest from hot-blooded youth as well as the infirm. They come looking for adventure, or an honorable way to pass on, and come in droves, perhaps because the Fighters Guild won’t accept the very old or very young. But the Undaunted are happy to oblige them, and in early Rain’s Hand, Turuk personally vouches for dozens of recruits who pass their initial trials. Then, as the year marches on, those numbers are eviscerated by Tamriel’s dark depths. Unfortunate, but it is in those depths that true Undaunted are forged.”

“Turuk’s friend Talisse just pointed out that Turuk still hasn’t answered your question. That one thinks she is so great. Looking around Turuk sees—give Turuk a moment to count. Turuk sees five. Five Undaunted. Turuk never counts the rest as alive until he confirms it with his eyes. Is that more or less than the combined might of the Fighters and Mages Guild? Turuk may never know.”

“It occurs to Turuk perhaps this would have been a better question for Mighty Mordra, who keeps a superior headcount.”

Since I first met you, you’ve taught me several helpful things. But I still feel that there is more I could learn from you. Some sort of ultimate knowledge, a technique perhaps, that would help my allies and me while we investigate Tamriel’s dungeons. Have you thought about letting us into such a secret someday? – Larenia Moonshine

Turuk Redclaws says, “Turuk would like to say that he remembers the illustrious Lady Moonshine, but Turuk lives in taverns and sadly does not. He hopes you were not one of the ones he taught Blood Altar construction to while under the influence of drink. Those poor souls will spend the rest of their lives wishing they could forget that night and Turuk is still picking hideous crust out of his ears.”

“As for new techniques, the Undaunted are forever refining their skills, but it is difficult to improve on the basics. It sounds like you have learned everything the Undaunted have to teach. Except, perhaps, that success in the depths isn’t about techniques. It’s not even about the weapons you carry into battle. It’s about shrewdness. Yours, and your friends’.”

“Besides, you already know how to make a Blood Altar. What more do you need? The Blood Altar fixes all of Turuk’s problems. It’s becoming an issue.”

What is the normal attrition rate for new bloods within the Undaunted? – Kii-Nam

Turuk says, “Turuk believes he has answered this question in some form or another before, but he has had plenty of moon sugar tonight. The Undaunted recruit new bloods often. There have been a great many of them. Sva ‘The Saw’ Crenshaw,  Severio ‘the Full Nelsonius’ Nelsonius, Lex Pilper—so many of them were here and are absent now (Turuk swears he has non-Imperial comrades who have passed on, but he can’t remember them).”

“Many ask Turuk when he says this, ‘Why then, do we never see them?’ They are around us, always. In Turuk’s heart. They are dead, but they are there.”

January 9, 2015

“Your Royal Highness, as leader of the Daggerfall Covenant, you know firsthand of the decline of the Second Empire. What are your thoughts on this Alliance War? What will it achieve? Your alliance has a noble cause, but it seems to me that good soldiers are fighting and killing each other while Molag Bal, our true enemy, succeeds.” – Alessandra of Cyrodiil

King Emeric says, “Though orators and demagogues will tell you otherwise, in politics matters are rarely as simple as just choosing one course over another, and a monarch must take thought for the future as well as the present. Though the Dark Anchors are falling across Tamriel, the epicenter of the invasion is the Imperial City of Cyrodiil. This is no coincidence: the city of Alessia and the Remans is itself a source of great power, both symbolic and actual. Who controls the Imperial City once the invasion is repulsed is a matter of profound consequence for all of Tamriel. We Bretons of High Rock remember the oppressive rule of Elvenkind, and are determined that Tamriel shall not be ruled again by such tyrants, whether from Alinor or Mournhold.”

“My King, I'm currently working on the rulers of the Second Empire, but the sources are obscure at best: the archives of Imperial College say that Sidri-Ashak is the ‘last strong Akaviri Potentate’ but also a ruler of Cyrodiil during the First Era. Who exactly is he? Did he rule after Versidue-Shaie and Savirien-Chorak, or sometime during the Reman Dynasty, or both?” – Iszara the Restless, Singer of the Scenarist Guild

King Emeric says, “Each Emperor of the Second Empire was advised by the leader of the Akaviri faction on the Elder Council, who bore the title Akaviri Potentate. Sidri-Ashak was Potentate to the little-known Emperor Brazollus Dor, who occupied the Ruby Throne between the reigns of Reman II and Reman III. Dor was not a particularly capable ruler, nor was he much interested in matters of state, preferring to spend most of his time at his country estate near Skingrad. The details of rule, and eventually nearly all issues of policy and politics, were delegated to his Potentate, Sidri-Ashak. This was Emperor Dor’s one wise decision during his reign, for Sidri-Ashak proved to be both a gifted administrator and a man of integrity. It is a shame that he is not better remembered today; I have a rare copy of his ‘Recollections of a Humble Potentate,’ and often enjoy dipping into it before bedtime.”

“Your Majesty, your great admiration for Reman Cyrodiil and his heirs is famous in these lands, but what's lesser known is your stance on his Akaviri successors. In your opinion, is there anything the Potentates did right, and are any of their policies worth reinstating in your future vision for a unified Tamriel under the Covenant banner?” – Legate Cyclenophus of the Bretonic Imperial Renewal Society

King Emeric says, “As mentioned above, the prudent monarch could do far worse than to model his polices upon those of Sidri-Ashak, who so capably served under Brazollus Dor, but I gather your question pertains to the regencies of Versidue-Shaie and Savirien-Chorak, who administered the Empire after the assassination of Reman III. Despite not being true Emperors, these latter-day Potentates ruled, for the most part, wisely and long. Versidue-Shaie was a peacemaker who ratified the Cervant Truce that ended the disastrous Four Score War with Morrowind, and suppressed the private armies of the Imperial nobility. But perhaps his greatest achievement was the Guild Act, which established and standardized regulation of trade and transactions across the Empire—and indeed, was adopted as de facto law across Tamriel, and even in the Summerset Isles. His successor, Savirien-Chorak, was not quite so able an administrator, and often responded poorly to the crises that began, in his era, to pull the Empire apart. But he was wise enough to recognize that it’s better to have the Orcs of Wrothgar as your friends than as enemies, and it was he who finally brought Orsinium into the Empire.”

“Your Majesty, I ask this question on behalf of the citizens of Belkarth and Dragonstar, loyal subjects of the once-great Second Empire, but apparently second-class to the Daggerfall Covenant. Craglorn in eastern Hammerfell is under severe threat from the so-called Scaled Court and these beings they call Celestials. Is Hammerfell not part of the Covenant? Why has there been no aid from Wayrest to combat the Celestial threat in these Covenant homelands?” – Enodoc Dumnonii, Savant of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

King Emeric says, “So far, only the parts of Hammerfell that owe fealty to the noble King Fahara’jad have joined the Daggerfall Covenant. Belkarth and Dragonstar are home to many brave and accomplished citizens with admirable aspirations, but until Northeast Hammerfell is represented by some kind of centralized authority, there is no one for the Covenant to sign a treaty with, and no one for the citizens of Craglorn to hold accountable for their protection. It is time for the people of Craglorn to band together and find a leader they can stand behind. The Daggerfall Covenant needs to use the east-west caravan road to supply our troops in Cyrodiil, so naturally we try to maintain order along that corridor, but we cannot commit to more than that under current circumstances. I’m sure a scholar such as yourself will understand.”

“Your Royal Highness (for that is your title), written history teaches us that Men cannot rule Cyrodiil. The First Empire collapsed after the War of Righteousness, and the defeat of those fanatics from the Alessian Order placed the Akaviri, foes of every race in Tamriel, on the throne. Aren’t both of these failures enough proof of the weakness of the human race and its inability to rule an empire that matches its arrogance?” – Bobcat

Chancellor Regina Troivois says, “That brings the audience with High King Emeric to an end for today. His Majesty apologizes for his abrupt departure; Scholars will kindly remain in place for a few moments while our intruding impostor is conducted by the Elite Lion Guard to another chamber for further … conversation. Thank you again for your fascinating questions, and if you write accounts of your audience with His Majesty, be sure to remark upon his warmth and easy approachability. That is all.”

February 6, 2015

Lord Tharn, your noble family's role in the Alessian slave rebellion is well known, but one figure that always intrigued me is the mysterious Arch-Prelate Fervidius Tharn himself. Details about the man are rare. Would the kind Chancellor be willing to shed some light on the matter? - Archivist Jimeee of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “I am pleased by your question, good archivist, for it gives me an opportunity to set the record straight about a man who is often mischaracterized and misunderstood. My ancestor, Fervidius Tharn, began his calling with the Alessian Order as a humble oblate, but as his merits and character became apparent—good breeding always tells, does it not?—he was given greater and greater responsibility, in time becoming arch-prelate of the entire order. Though at that period the arch-prelate wielded power almost as great as that of the emperor, Fervidius still had powerful enemies, both inside and outside the order. The greatest of these threats was a fanatical schism of the Alessians called the Marukhati Selective. Arch-Prelate Fervidius learned that the zealots of the Selective were scheming to bring about some sort of mystical re-engineering of the Aurbis by finding and combining the eight parts of an artifact called the Staff of Towers. These segments had been deliberately separated and hidden early in the First Era due to the threat posed by the complete Staff. Fervidius sent agents of the Order out to find these segments—not, as some have said, to assist the Marukhati Selectives, but to sequester the segments where the Selectives could not get at them. Alas, in the end the arch-prelate, ever a trusting man, was betrayed by his closest allies, and his courageous stand against the Selectives cost him his very life."

My question for you, Chancellor, is that during the Alessian Rebellion, why were the Barsaebic Ayleids of my native Black Marsh not targeted as a potential threat or source of allies for the two conflicting sides (and the same for the Saxhleel ourselves)? I would think their proximity would result in some action from them, but nothing seems to be recorded in The Imperial Library. But we know how much you care for authenticity and accuracy, eh Tharn? – Eis Vuur Warden, Wayward and Contract Scholar

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “My dear Warden, you wound me, truly you do, with your implications. Those who put the boot into another should take care, lest they become boots themselves, if you take my meaning. But I digress. The Barsaebics, of course, were on the Aedric side in the Ayleid civil conflict known as the Narfinsel Schism, and were driven out of Cyrodiil by the Daedra-worshipers in the Scouring of Wendelbek. As this took place only a half-century before Alessia's Slave Revolt, the humiliation of exile still stung for the Barsaebics; when King Glinferen of Atatar sent an envoy to Gideon call for aid against the rebellious Nedes, the Barsaebic king (I'm afraid his name is lost to history) sent him back with a blunt refusal. Why didn't Alessia, who had other Ayleids among her allies, call on the Barsaebics to join her? We don't know that she didn't—all we know is that such an alliance never took place."

Let's get the facts straight. Was Morihaus a bull, or a man, or a man-bull, or what? We need to know! -Imperial Scholar Aidius Lutrus

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “As one Imperial scholar to another, Aidius, I am surprised to hear you use the word 'facts' about an individual known to us only through the medium of myth. In 'fact,' it matters not whether Morihaus was man, bull, or Eidar cheese—what matters is how his saga supports the national narrative of the Empire, and how belief in the might and righteousness of Morihaus informs the self-image of the average Cyrodiil. The creation story of the Empire has no purpose or meaning beyond its support of the Empire's continuation. If this is news to you, perhaps it is time to review the continuation of your Imperial stipend."

I wish to know your opinion on Alessia. Why did Akatosh favor her cause—indeed, the cause of all Imperials, and grant her the Amulet of Kings? - Alessandra of Cyrodiil

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “Ah, but of course you already know the answer, loyal Alessandra. Do you simply wish to hear the truth spoken again from the very lips of the High Chancellor? If so, I am happy to indulge you. Repeat, along with me, the words that cannot be gainsaid, the truth that cannot be questioned: 'Saint Alessia, through her purity and wisdom, earned the love of all good beings, mortal and immortal. At Sancre Tor she prayed to Akatosh for the liberation of her people, and the Time Dragon granted her Three Visions to guide her in this task. Though the road was long and filled with hardship, her faith sustained her. When at last all three visions had come to pass and her people were freed of Elven domination, her purpose was fulfilled and she was called to Apotheosis. Then was she inducted into sainthood by Akatosh himself, and granted the Amulet of Kings, for the sacred rulers of the Empire to wear for ever and beyond.' There, Alessandra. Blessed be the Divines."

As a young woman, I was taught that our ancestors were called 'Nedes'. Some historical texts suggest the Nedes are the aboriginal humans of Tamriel. Others, such as the Dunmeri sagas, suggest they came from Atmora, and were cousins of the Nords. I know you have a deep interest in the genealogy of your own esteemed bloodline, milord, as well as a strong nationalistic pride in Nibenay and its accomplishments, so I'll assume you have an opinion on the matter of the identity of Nedes. Just who were our enigmatic ancestors, sire, and where did they come from? – Laurina Berne, Master Enchanter, Battlemage Corps

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “Excellent questions, upon matters to which many of our finest scholars have devoted their entire lives. Before Khosey's 'Tamrilean Tractates,' which date to around 1E 200, the historical record is fragmentary to entirely nonexistent. This places us in the realm of conjecture, but from common elements in the oral traditions of the Cyro-Nedic tribes, certain probabilities can be adduced. The origin of the Nedes was undoubtedly the northern continent of Atmora, but the Nedic tribes did not all come to Tamriel at once; they came in waves, over a period of centuries, one tribal group at a time. These tribes were far from homogeneous: though all came from Atmora, some were as different from each other as Reachman and Redguard. The term 'Nedic Tribes' actually covers a wide panoply of different human cultures from different parts of Atmora, with a variety of traditions and practices. For the Nedes, Tamriel became a great mixing cauldron—some Atmoran practices were retained, but many were lost. In Nibenay alone do we find the kind of continuity that sheds light on original Nedic culture, for only here were the great, old traditions maintained in any fidelity. Thus, when you look at a Nibenese, you see the closest thing to a pure-bred Nede still remaining on this continent."

March 6, 2015

“I have two questions. Firstly, what is the Sloads' relationship like with the Maormer? They seem like the only race that would deal with them frequently. Secondly, do they have any connection to the rise of the Worm Cult on the mainland? Many thanks for your wisdom, and may Mauloch guide your staff and light your way." - Urgazul gro-Brashnuk, Orsinium Historian and Keeper of the Forge-Secrets

Telenger the Artificer says, “Welcome, fellow scholar! As far as we in Summerset can tell—and we have more experience of the Sload than any other folk—the Sload are hostile to all other mortal races. Though there is some evidence of diplomatic traffic between the Sload and the Maormer—see 'A Loathsome Civilization'—there are also plenty of accounts of conflict between the Slugmen and the Sea Elves. This is no surprise, since both Sea Elves and Sload are at war with all other mortal races. The Maormer's grievance seems to be that they got stuck with Pyandonea, a sad and swampy archipelago of malodorous islets; why the Sload are so belligerent to all others is unknown.

“As to your second question: I have heard speculation about an entente between the Sload and the self-styled King of Worms, but facts? Someone in Cyrodiil may know more, but I do not. I suppose the Eyes of the Queen might know something, but if so, they haven't told me. And why would they?"

“Most proficient Artificer, the grim fate of Bendu Olo's lost expedition members has recently come to light in the depths of Coldharbour. Was this Coral Tower encountered by the All-Flags Navy similar in nature to the other Towers of Nirn, or was it simply a Daedric perversion?" – Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Telenger the Artificer says, “Since the Coral Tower has fallen, at this point the best we can do is make educated guesses. In their own perverse way, the Sload are very capable sorcerers, and from all accounts the Coral Tower acted as both a focus and a projector of mystical power. I am not a scholar of Tower Lore—my interests tend more toward the practical—but this accords (somewhat) with what the mythohistorians claim is the purpose and practice of the so-called Towers of Nirn. Was the Coral Tower a 'real' Tower like Lawful Crystal, here in Alinor, or was it a failed imitation, like the Doomspire? I do not think we have an answer based on what little we know."

“Oh most high of Artificers, I ask that you impart any knowledge you have (which I don't doubt is extensive) regarding the Sloads' presence in Black Marsh. When was the first report of their appearance there? Could they still be lurking in the swamps to this day? Do the Argonians have any particular relationship with the Sload?" – TheHumanFloyd

Telenger the Artificer says, “The Sload? In Black Marsh? You surprise me, TheHumanFloyd—dare I ask what are your sources for this interesting claim? If true, certain advisors to the Queen on security matters must be notified immediately!"

“In my travels, I've heard about the Pillar of Thras. It is true that the Sload perform sacrifices here? If so, what is their motive? Also, is it true that some of the victims disappear before they touch the ground? What happens to them? On another note, how is Sload Soap made? I've heard rumors of an entire factory in High Rock dedicated to its production by crushing Sload larvae!" – Bertille Montrose, Breton bookseller and amateur scholar

Telenger the Artificer says, “So many questions! You Bretons always seem so frenetic to us, trying to cram so much activity into your brief lives. I suppose it's understandable, however.

“Anyway, to your questions: Pillar of Thras? Are you referring to the fallen Coral Tower that sank at the time of the All-Flags Navy, or some new edifice? If it's a new erection, this 'Pillar' of yours may square with certain rumors I have heard that the Sload intend to rebuild their Tower, and indeed may already have commenced. The Thrassians command powerful magics, of course: not just necromancy and portal spells, but the ability to command the coral they live among in a manner analogous to the Wood Elves' communion with the plants of Valenwood. Could they induce the coral to grow rapidly out of the Sea of Pearls, spiraling skyward so as to create their tower anew? This bears further investigation. Perhaps the Sapiarch of Scrying….

“But enough speculation—on to a subject about which, for once, we can be certain: Sload Soap! There are many misconceptions about the origin of Sload Soap, and I am happy to have an opportunity to clear it up. First, let us consider the metamorphic biology of the Sload. They begin life on the Thrassian Atolls as, in the words of Admiral Bendu Olo, 'disgusting little amorphous grubs.' Ignored by their pendulous parents, these grubs somehow squirm their way to the sea, where they mutate into aquatic quasi-cephalopods known as 'polwygles.' Due to their corpulence, adult Sloads spend a great deal of time in the shallow lagoons of their atolls, wallowing among the polwygles. Those larvae that prove too slow to avoid their parents' pseudopods are caught and harvested, culling out the weak and providing the raw material for Sload Soap.

“Captured polwygles are tossed into an ever-bubbling cauldron where they gradually deliquesce into a slimy broth. This broth undergoes an alchemical commixture with materials known only to the Sload, after which it is poured into molds and allowed to cool. Once solid, the bars are scooped out and wrapped in the viscera of hagfish for preservation.

“It is believed that the Sload use this soap as a primary component in their necromantic rituals. I'm no expert on necromancy, but apparently having an emulsified reagent concocted from one's own descendants acts as profound intensifier in the magic of undeath. Sload Soap is rarely seen away from Thras, and when it is it commands high prices from alchemists, who prize its unique properties for creating potions of agility and, rarest of all, the mutation of personality. Alianora the Red, our Sapiarch of Alchemy, says that Sload Soap has never been thoroughly analyzed outside of Thras, and may contain many more undiscovered alchemical properties. Plus, it's an exceptional cleanser, deep-cleaning yet mild, that leaves your skin feeling youthful and refreshed."

"First thing's first; I want my tome on the Whet Fang back, Telenger. Second, several scholars suggest that the Thrassian Plague was supernatural in nature, the result of bargains with Daedric Princes like Namira the Prince of Rot and Peryite the Prince of Pestilence. Do you personally think there is any credence to these claims, old friend?" – Eis Vuur Warden, Wayward and Contract Scholar

Telenger the Artificer says, “Eis Vuur! Of course, I'll collect that book as soon as I get back to my laboratory and have it sent to you by Black Horse Courier. I'll just need to find another object the right size to, er, prop up my lillandrilic calcinator. (Ahem.)

“The Thrassian Plague, scourge of the First Era, was known to the common people as the Slug Famine because the wriggling gastropods that carried the flesh-eating disease infected not just people, but livestock and wild animals as well. It's easy to see why one might associate the Plague with Namira or Peryite, as the Spirit Daedra's sphere includes slime and slugs, while the Taskmaster's includes disease and contamination. It's well known that the Sload traffic with the Princes, so the involvement of Namira or Peryite is quite credible. However, there is also the Pestilent Progeny Thesis of that reprobate Divayth Fyr, which postulates that the infectious slugs that invaded Tamriel were mutated versions of the Sloads' own infantile larvae. However, since the Plague was wiped out by Syrabane, we have no extant samples to test to determine which of these hypotheses is correct. Indeed, these theories are by no means mutually exclusive, and it could be that the truth lies somewhere in between. Only the Sload know for sure. Perhaps, Eis Vuur, in your wayward and peripatetic travels, you could stop off at Thras and ask them!"

April 2nd, 2015

"The only certainty regarding Elder Scrolls I have ever heard is that they hold great power and are often used for prophecy. Yet I cannot help but wonder... have there ever been any events that have contradicted an Elder Scroll without having been foretold in another Elder Scroll? If so, how did such a phenomenon occur? Was it brought on by mortal intervention? Divine intervention? If such an event has never happened, do you believe there is any such thing as true freedom? Or are we all slaves to fate?" - Drafo

Sister Terran Arminus says, “This is a good question with which to start, for answering it enables me to address some misconceptions about the Elder Scrolls that are common among the … er … commoners. The Scrolls are often described as tools of prophecy—indeed, 'the Aedric Prophecies' is another name for them in some quarters—but the fact that the Scrolls speak of future events is merely a side-effect of their intrinsic nature. The Scrolls tell of our future because they are woven into that future—as well the present, and the past, and every other aspect of this reality we call the Mundus. It is a mistake to think that events prophesized in the Scrolls are fixed and unchangeable; again and again we in the Order of the Ancestor Moth have seen the prophecies alter as the future changes in response to the acts of mortals. Future events foretold in the Scrolls may be deemed likely to occur, so likely as to seem almost certain—but no event is fixed in the Scrolls until it actually happens."

"Firstly Sister, I hope you are well. I understand that the strain of being a Moth Cultist is tough. As a linguist, I have studied the language of Oblivion. I have taken charcoal rubbings from dolmens themselves. So naturally something has bothered me: Has anyone in your order attempted to transcribe the Elder Scrolls?" -D'arht-si, daughter of Ra Gada.

Sister Terran Arminus says, “D'arht-si, your handwriting is quite small, and hard for these cloudy eyes to see clearly. Perhaps if I hold it up to the taper just so: what's this? 'Stain of being a Moth Cultist'? Is membership in the Order now considered shameful? We have never received due respect, but this, this is too much!

“Oh. Wait. 'STRAIN of being a Moth Cultist.' I must apologize, Daughter of Hammerfell. In fact, we are under a great deal of strain these days, and it can manifest in a certain irritability. I shall try to answer your question as best I can."

“In fact, though every Novice of the Order is warned that attempts to transcribe the Scrolls are useless, every one of us tries it at some point, only to discover upon reading what we have carefully copied out that it is gibberish, utter nonsense of no meaning to anyone. The words of the Elder Scrolls must be graven upon one's soul and spirit, for they are comprehended through affinity and rapport, not calculation or cognition."

"To the esteemed Terran Arminus,
It seems that not even the Elder Scrolls are safe from this accursed conflict, as each faction tries to lay claim to them by conquest. The brutish legions claim that possession of the scrolls grants them various boons in combat. Surely, this can be attributed purely to the good morale these soldiers find in desecrating our great bastion of knowledge, can it not? I dare not imagine that the very scrolls would deign to lend aid to the profiteers that soil our land." -Scholar-in-Exile, Querulus Praeco

"Honoured Sister,
First let me express my condolences over the loss of several members of the Order, who I have heard were killed during invasions of the Temple by troops from the three Alliances, who then proceeded to abscond with a number of Elder Scrolls. Following this abhorrent act of larceny, I have heard soldiers in passing mention feeling more powerful, or more resistant to damage, thanks to the benefits of the Scrolls. But how do the Scrolls confer such specific bonuses, particularly if only members of the Order are able to understand their contents?" - Enodoc Dumnonii, Savant of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Sister Terran Arminus says, “I shall answer the two preceding questions together, as they are really but two sides of the same drake. However, it will be a test of my temper, as nothing has ever been so vexing as the Alliance militaries' recent appropriations of the Elder Scrolls! So infuriating … some days I just want to kill all their housecats. You know, to show them. Soldiers!

“But I digress. When the generals and legates first came among us demanding custody of the Elder Scrolls, we refused, stating it was absurd to believe that possession of the Scrolls would grant them any benefit, tangible or temporal. They took them anyway, and soon began to attribute their military fortunes, good or ill, to loss or acquisition of Scrolls on the battlefield. Most of us scoffed, but one priest, Brother Euclidius Bonum, decided to investigate for himself. He subjected one month's history of Cyrodilic warfare to a rigorous analysis—battles won and lost, Scrolls captured and recaptured—and he found that there was a small, but significant and definite, correlation between military success and Elder Scroll possession on the part of the Alliance militaries.

“How are we to account for this? My cat has no idea. It seems impossible that the Scrolls could actually be conferring military aid upon their possessors—they are mighty artifacts, perhaps the mightiest of all, but their power is passive and descriptive, not active or prescriptive. Brother Euclidius, who it must be admitted is an original thinker, theorizes that the soldiers in an army possessing an Elder Scroll are open, on some unconscious level, to a collective osmotic absorption of the prophecies therein—and that insofar as the soldiers' goals all align toward triumph over their enemies, they therefore tend to collectively make choices that align with the prophecies foretold in the Scroll. By swimming with the flow of history, as it were, an army with a Scroll is therefore somewhat more likely to make decisions that coincide with the probability of events, which leads to a preponderance of victories.

“That said, Brother Euclidius' calculations were based upon a rather small statistical sample, so it would be premature to give them the imprimatur of proof. The good brother feels that with enough data—say, thirty or forty more years of warfare—he should be able to arrive at some fairly reliable conclusions. I cannot say that I hope the war will last long enough to give him this data. But perhaps I am selfish."

"Moth Sister Arminus, it has been said that the Elder Scrolls can pierce the veil of Time, that they contain the prophecies of every major event on Nirn. To my knowledge, there must also be a hero to meet each of those events. I wonder, then, as someone who has studied the Scrolls, do you know if the hero—or their soul—is bound to the Elder Scrolls? Is this hero as constant as the events and prophecies foretold by the Scrolls?" - Alessandra of Cyrodiil

Sister Terran Arminus says, “Though the great events of history garner the most attention, think not that the Scrolls solely commemorate acts of lasting significance. The Elder Scrolls are bound by threads of time to the warp and weft of the entire Mundus, and every soul, 'great' or otherwise, has a place therein. Many speak of 'heroes' as if they were born great and the key roles of history were fated to be enacted by them. But is that so? A careful study of the Scrolls leads me to believe that no mortal is 'born great,' but that a person becomes a Hero by making choices and taking actions other mortals refuse. The Scrolls do not select such people, but they do record and reflect their actions, and note the difference made thereby."

"To be given into the care of Moth Sister Terran Arminus:
I've heard the Elder Scrolls can move on their own. To what extent are they aware of their surroundings? Respectful regards, Rohais of Aurido"

Sister Terran Arminus says, “Though we in the Order who deal with the Scrolls sometimes jocularly personalize them, it's a mistake to think of them as cats. As I learned in my first days in the Order, when I served as Scroll Drudge to Librarian Strombus, if a priest wants to study an Elder Scroll, someone has to bring it to him."

"Greetings, Sister Terran! I haven't held conversation with a member of your order in centuries, not since that one incident with the…er, never mind that, it was probably before your time anyways, my dear. My question today for you is one detailing the strange glyphs that dot the Elder Scrolls, like and unlike Mage Script. These esoteric symbols seem to be associated with the constellations at one moment, with the planets at other moments, the Daedric Princes in even more moments, and – which is the strangest in my opinion – all of the above at once! As we both know, these glyphs have a habit of swirling, disappearing, and outright readjusting themselves, which makes jotting them down to better understand them an extremely hard task. Is there any insight you can give me into this mystical and perhaps outright unknowable language, Sister?" – Eis Vuur Warden, Wayward and Contract Scholar

Sister Terran Arminus says, “Your description of the strange and even commingled runes and alphabets that comprise an Elder Scroll's text is accurate, but only for the experience of the beginning or novice reader. The more a Priest of the Ancestor Moth communes with the Scrolls, the more legible they become, even as our vision fails and the letters grow more obscure. In fact, the symbols and characters of a Scroll's text gradually take on the character of whichever language is most familiar to the reader. This makes the decay of our eyesight all the more mournful, as the loss of the ability to read the Scrolls feels like the death of a close friend."

April 30, 2015
 

“While being an explorer and a scholar requires of one an extensive travel, it also supplies her with fascinating encounters. In one of my recent expeditions to the Hollow City, I met an intriguing creature named Gibbers. While one can mistake him for a scamp from a distance, upon a closer examination, he has horns, like a banekin and back spikes, like a daedroth. Centuries of close encounters with Padomaic creatures, we still know so little about their physiology, creation and decay. As I despise any forms of slavery, conjuration was never one of my research methods. Therefore, the only sources I can rely on in my studies are personal encounters, not all of them non-violent, unfortunately, and works of my fellow explorers. Recently, Doctor Rhythandius gifted us with his pioneering work, Chaotic Creatia: The Azure Plasm. According to it, a Padomaic vestige is what preserves the creature's morphotype, while the body is formed from the Azure Plasm which accretes around the vestige. So, back to Gibbers. I am wondering, if the form is kept within a vestige, how is it possible for such a hybrid to exist? Thank you in advance!" -- Shuryard, Scholar of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “Nine of every ten of your words are folly and blather. Typical mortal. Vestiges? They are vulnerable; malleable; corruptible. Place no trust in your perception of a Daedra, for mortal vision is unreliable, and all is temporary."

“Lyranth,
I know that Aurorans and Golden Saints are different Daedra, but I was wondering if you could enlighten us on how they view each other, given how similar they are. Do they view one another as lesser copies? Or are they outright hostile towards each other?
Much appreciated, Jeancey, Loremaster of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits"

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “Aurorans? Idiot tools of the Glister Witch, who intruded herself so indecently into the Master's realm of Coldharbour. The Madgod's Golden Saints are simpletons as well, but at least they have the Daedric decency to conform to a comprehensible hierarchy. As for how they view each other, since both exhibit pretensions beyond their worth, I have no doubt they regard each other with contempt. Which is, of course, entirely deserved."

“I have a question for his awfulness Lyranth, but I think it concerns more the relationship between some kinds of lesser Daedra than the ranks topic treated here. I hope it will be worth the attenction of your lordship. We all recognize the fierce reptile daedroth, but I've also heard of another unspecified so-called “fire daemon", that appears to be physically related to the daedroth, but it seems to be more intelligent. I've once seen something similar when I came across into the dreaded “Haunter of the Cliffs". An analogous doubt arises about the nasty banekin and the “homunculi" whereof we can read in the “A Hypothetical Treachery" script. Are they the same creatures? And is there a relationship between the dire Nightmare Courser, whereof is said to be the breed of Mehrunes Dagon, and the legendary fire-spitting Hell Hound?
With your grace, I'd want to finally acknowledge what connection there's between all those creatures, that certainly share a common origin in the planes of Oblivion." – Shanke-Naar Righthorn

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “Your problem, mortal, is exemplified by your words, 'share a common origin in the planes of Oblivion.' There is nothing 'common' about, between, or across the planes of Oblivion—they are the very definition of change and variation, manifesting all possibilities, and validating all understanding and misunderstanding. You seek similarities where there are only differences, a classification of chaos. You think that, because you perceive a superficial resemblance between the outward appearance of the Nightmare Courser and the Hell Hound, that they must share a 'relationship.' Ever the mortal mind defends itself against the reality of what it cannot comprehend by the pathetic imposition of familiar patterns on entities of inconvenient hyperagonal morphology. Bah. Reflect on the fact that you have failed to understand a single word of my explanation, and burden me with no more such questions."

“Apart from the more commonly known Daedric Princes (and Jyggalag), are there any Princes most of the denizens of Tamriel simply don't know about? Are all Dremora bound to a Prince or are those who are, for lack of a better term, independent contractors? Are all Dremora warlike and clan-based, or are some more, for lack of a better term, civilized?" – Benyamin Soto

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “The Dremora are civilized BECAUSE we are warrior clans, ignorant mortal. In Oblivion, order and hierarchy are wrested from the roil of chaotic creatia by the imposition of the will of the mover. Thus rank and order are glory, for they exhibit strength of will. It is our nature, therefore, to serve those who exhibit even stronger will, and in their service we gain stature and reward. So our oath of fealty is ironclad—but eternity is change. As for what 'most of the denizens of Tamriel simply don't know about,' that subject is far too vast to address here."

“With the Planemeld raging across Tamriel, it is not difficult to encounter many different variants of Dremora. The United Explorers possess some information about the most common ones, but there are also some more exotic types, for example Kyngald, Narkynaz, Fearkyn, Hauzkyn, or Harstryl. Are all of these just ranks, or perhaps they correspond to the role played by the bearer? Or maybe they are some kind of clan names?" – Vordur Steel-Hammer, Pundit of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “Dremora are named and titled to suit our own purposes, and not for the convenience of mortals; your existence is so brief, it's pointless to explain our hieronymics to you, as you lack the lifespan to comprehend their nuances. Ranks? Roles? Titles? Clans? They are all these things, though mortal minds may render them as little more than jumbles of syllables."

“I summon you, Lyranth Foolkiller, Wehkehpneht-kamdo, and bind you with this paleonymic. Answer, or return to the Wellspring of Oblivion from whence you came!
“Despite your people's infinitely complex hierarchy, the mortals of Tamriel know next to nothing of your clans. The Kyn seem to readily provide details on the various ranks of your foul society once they've been coaxed a little, but even the Imperial Battlemages have failed to obtain any meaningful information on clan structure. The most well-known clan prior to the Planemeld identifies itself only as 'Dremora Clan', and is led by Lord Imago Storm, Oathkin of Mehrunes Dagon. Can you shed some light on the origins of the Foolkillers and the Deathbringers, and how they came to owe allegiance to Molag Bal? What are your clan's relations like with Imago and his ilk?" – Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “I answer, forced by the vexatious constraints of your vulgar conjuration, Legoless, but rest assured that your name shall be duly entered in my Oghma of Inevitable Retribution. Foolkiller, Deathbringer, even Dremora are but arena-terms, nicknames for use when trafficking with mortals; the real, protracted tribunymics of the Kyn are never spoken, never revealed, lest they be used as weapons against us. And no mortal has yet contrived a spell strong enough to force us to disclose them."

"Lyranth…well, I am certainly not pleased to see you again after all these years, yet at the same time I must say I am pleased to know you haven't been locked away and tortured for the events that led to our subsequent departure and which placed me on the path of scholarhood in the first place. But I raise the spine of digression, my dear Nirn-bounded Kyn. I have three questions that need answering my old Dremora compatriot, if you so deign to do so:
The very Essence of Oblivion is Change, and the Daedra are often considered to just be chaotic beings by amateur scholars. Despite this, the Daedra seem to have a caste system so rigid and perfect that it seems forestall any form of alteration and allows the Second Void to function on a level mortal minds aren't able to fathom. In sharp contrast, are few trustworthy texts on Aetherius seems to indicate it holds no caste system whatsoever and simply ebbs and flows without any controlling. If the Aedra are supposed to be 'Orderly' entities that help stabilize the lives of mortals, then why do they exhibit more chaotic properties than the more predictable and organized Daedra?" – Eis Vuur Warden, Wayward and Contract Scholar

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “I omit your second and third questions, because though you claim the title 'Vuur,' you are by no means of Inquisitor status, and therefore lack the prestige to ask more than one. Truly, the vainglory of you mortals is without limit, and only regular and harsh rebukes can keep it in check.
“As to your remaining query, it is blithering folderol, but I shall address it. First, I direct your attention to my answer to Benyamin Soto, above, as to the requirements of order when all around is chaos. We proudly adhere to a rigid caste system because we will it to be so! Second, you make the common mortal error of conflating the craven et'Ada who fled creation to Aetherius with the foolish et'Ada who sacrificed their power to create the Mundus, that theater that serves as their cemetery. But foolish or no, the so-called Divines who created the mortal theater undoubtedly wrought order from chaos through a great act of will, which is a brutal coercion we Daedra must admire. They cannot have achieved what they were aiming at, for you mortals and your 'world' are quite ridiculous, but the folly was a noble one."

"Ah, I see my memospore transmission was a success. You understand why I choose not to appear before a being such as yourself in the flesh. I'm no fool, as was I assume the one who earned you your title. To the questions, then.
Firstly, just how common is it for one of the Kyn to receive a field promotion, as it were? I understand your people operate off a strict military hierarchy, and that constant wars are being fought in Oblivion. This must surely mean that rapid promotions and demotions occur, presumably when a commanding officer is temporarily separated from his body through shameful defeat. Can you enlighten me on that, fearful warrior?
One other thing - your rowdy "cousins" the Xivilai. What are your opinions on them? I've heard they're physically imposing, but are difficult to train as soldiers, and only operate as mercenaries and Auxiliaries of the Princes they serve. Is there any truth to that? Also, who would win in a fight between you and a Xivilai, if you don't mind me asking? I can't resist that question, especially since I'm in a different dimension from yourself currently." ~ Legate Cyclenophus of the Bretonic Imperial Restoration Society

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “Though you are a lowly worm, I shall answer both your questions, in hopes that it will infuriate Eis Vuur Warden, so that he will seek you out 'in the flesh' to enact revenge for my blatant favoritism. (It is, after all, what I would do.) Regarding promotions and demotions: a rigid hierarchy such as we Dremora glory in defines the relationship between ranks, but does not dictate what rank an individual must fill. (Except, of course, when it does, but explaining further exceeds the scope of my willingness to answer.) In the service of a great and warlike Master, discorporation of individuals is frequent, but the hierarchy must persist! In such cases change of rank is necessary, that the web of command be maintained.
“Ah, the Xivilai. Are there any Daedra, in all the infinite worlds of Oblivion, more pompous and filled with unwarranted conceit than those impertinent and unruly louts? It is true that their combination of brute strength and low cunning makes them effective agents in certain rare situations, but for most purposes they are sadly unreliable. As you may be aware, our Master's personal guard, the Xivkyn, are the result of experiments with vestigial hybridization in the Vile Laboratory. At first blush they seem acceptable allies, but before we Dremora can fully trust them, we need to see an archaeon or two pass to give us some track record."

“Greetings Lyranth,
I humbly apologise if this letter did not reach you in the correct manner; I am fairly new to dealing with Daedra and hope to keep this record as small as possible. Contrary this, I am still working to regain my soul from Molag Bal, the thrice-cursed fiend.
Although I have not personally shown any affiliation with the Lord of Destruction, I have shown great fascination in Mehrunes Dagon's royal guard, the Valkyn. One member of this elite has posed me questions regarding his biology in general, and has had me suffer many hours of research and questioning of those brave enough to meet him in person; Valkyn Skoria. You see, I had always assumed that the Valkyn (and indeed, any of Dagon's favoured Daedra in general) were Dremora, like yourself. However, on observation of Skoria, he does not look anything like a Dremora; indeed, he seems to be made of the fire and brimstone making up a Flame Atronach, but built in the shape of an Imperial-Daedric-armoured soldier. So my question to you is this: What exactly is Valkyn Skoria?
Signed, Vulcanos-Draco, patron of Tamriel's House Draco"

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “A sad tale—but instructive. The Valkyn and their allied clans are too weak to serve mighty Molag Bal, and have thus had to find lesser employment with Mehrunes Dagon. The Prince of Ambition is never satisfied with his servants, and often seeks to enhance their destructive power through vestige mutation. These experiments often have unhappy side-effects for the mutants in question, and such is the case with Valkyn Skoria, a Dremora who was imbued with certain aspects of the atronachs from Infernace. This achieved Dagon's goal of making him more destructive, but in order to maintain his molten condition Skoria must ever abide in close proximity to magma. It also means that he eternally suffers the agony of immolation, as if you, 'Vulcanus-Draco,' were being roasted by the flames of that Dragon whose name you have so pretentiously assumed."

“Powerful Lyranth,
Hoping in a reply to my answers, I'm so humbled to have a chunk of your endless time available for me.
I know that each Prince has different Daedra among their ranks and gives them power following the Prince's preference. I'm leading a group of Sanguine cultists and, despite the disgust that this could provoke in you, I'd ask more information about the mutual relations between the single Daedroths in my Master's service.
This ignorance comes because, even if I'm quite familiar with Seducer Trilvath, for I often indulge in the Master's Demesne in Shadowfen, every time I go there to learn more about my Master, I inexplicably forget always what I had to ask her, so I would dare to ask help to you about this matter. I know what mortal said about ranks in Varieties of Daedra but I'd also know if it's that ranking true also for the Master.
I know that my question can be hardly considered not foolish. In fact maybe it is so foolish than I will not deserve your attentions except a simple reply to this letter.
Curse the Deathbringers, Kharas Fortemartello - Rise of Sanguine's Cult Leader"

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “Ah, but Kharas, it is the foolish who receive my PARTICULAR attention—and I assure you, your question proves you worthy of it. But first I will answer your question before proceeding to your well-deserved punishment.
“Sanguine, of course, is one of the weaker Princes, so naturally he is served by weak Daedra: scamps, banekin, Dark Seducers, and the ogrim he uses as bouncers at his parties. This is as it must be. And it is no coincidence that his servants among mortals are … those such as yourself.
“And now, mortal, flee to the imagined security of Sanguine's Demesne, and console yourself there as you may, for your allotted lifespan nears its end."

“Greetings Immortal one,
Recent rumors speak of your cunning and ingenious defeat of an enemy clan, I offer my congratulation as well as my sincerest admiration. Since you have graciously consented to discuss the ranks and hierarchies of the spawn of Padomay, I humbly request your enlightenment on the nature of the Dremora Clans. Current reserach indicates that Dremora exist in the service of at least two Lords. Do there exist Dremora in the service of others? Are dremora from the same clan ever sworn to the service of different lords, and finally how do the inter-clan hierarchies interact with the rank structure imposed by the Lords themselves? I thank you for your time and such wisdom and knowledge as you care to impart." – Furoniil Telvanni, Mage's Guild Magister, Blacklight Guildhall

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “A Telvanni, eh? I will answer your questions, for the hubris of your House will then lead you to further traffic with the Daedra, a mistake I am confident you will make one time too many. Though the Dremora find their greatest glory in the service of mighty Molag Bal, not all Dremora are able enough to belong to our ranks, and must find places elsewhere. Less-fortunate Dremora can be found in the service of Mehrunes Dagon, of Vaermina, of Clavicus Vile, and some poor Caitiffs and Churls even serve Peryite. All members of a given clan serve the same Prince, and preserve (to the best of their ability) the standard Dremora hierarchies."

I have a new question for Lyranth, about the concept of the "demiprince" as seen in the 36 Lessons of Vivec:
"As you may know, we Redguards are devoted to our sword. But some of us prefer to choose the sword-teachings of the Barons of Move Like This and Fa-Nuit-Hen instead of the Ansei. The Dunmer I encountered say that Fa-Nuit-Hen is a Daedric 'demiprince'. I know the Daedric Princes, but what is a demiprince? Are there others like Fa-Nuit-Hen?" – Iszara the Restless, Singer of the Scenarist Guild

Lyranth the Foolkiller says, “A demiprince is a by-blow of a Daedric Prince or Daedra Lord and a lesser entity, perhaps even a mortal. A demiprince often inherits aspects of its princely parent, but it may also be curiously lacking in characteristics such as foresight, memory, cruelty, or willfulness. Some acquire, or are given, minor realms to rule, and many of these of these pocket realities are bizarre or eccentric, even by the standards of Oblivion. Some demiprinces, such as Fa-Nuit-Hen, are known to occasionally visit the Mundus for the express purpose of interacting with mortals. As I said: eccentric."

May 30, 2015
 

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “So many, many questions! I am honored by your desires for knowledge and advice, but forgive me for being unable to answer every question—for Dancing Day is only a few weeks off, and there is still much to prepare!"

"Dear Augustine Viliane, Esteemed Sibyl of Dibella

I write to you in the hopes that you will guide me in my struggle to win the heart of an elven lad I have laid eyes upon. He is of Altmeri stock and recently arrived from fair Summerset to work at our Mage's Guild librarium. Dear Fellandril seems more friendly and informal than most his kin, and yet my Breton passion and charm do not suffice. There is fire in his eyes, but keeps that typical Altmeri aloofness. I have failed to win him over with our Breton poetry and witful remarks, so I ask you - how does one court the golden-skinned beauties of Summerset? How do I breach that frigid countenance?
Yours sincerely, Grand Enchanter Etienne Dumonte, of the Wayrest Mage's Guild"

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “The High Elves are famous for their interest in lineage and heritage. If you are one of the Dumontes of Gavaudon, your family is known for having considerable Direnni contributions to your bloodline. You might mention that casually in Fellandril's hearing and see if it piques his interest. Or, as you are in Wayrest, you might stop by the Temple sometime, and we can discuss it personally."

“Most Esteemed Sybil of Dibella,

To put my question bluntly, what is Dibella's stance on more than two lovers in a single relationship? Right now, I am not in any relationship of the sort, nor do I have any inclination to start one.

Until I have my answer, however, my scholarly curiosity shall not be sated.

Especially in these troubled times, it seems that people would seek companionship with as many as they can, and what stronger bond is there between people than that of love?

Perhaps I am being arrogant in my speculation, but it seems to me that a trio or quad of lovers would be even more content than a pair.

After all, more people means more love, right?

I beg your forgiveness if I am displaying the ignorance of a brute.

Nevertheless, I am curious as to what Dibella's judgement is on this.

Thank you for your time.

Divines be with you, Theophilus Drafonius

PS The first letter of each sentence is not mere coincidence. We know where it is, and how to get it."

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “Ah, but the Passion Dancer bids us remember that quality of love is of the essence, not quantity. If the dance transports us, what matter the number of dancers?

“As to the other matter: see me Fredas night, after the service."

“Most Venerable Augustine Viliane, Sibyl of Dibella at the Wayrest Temple,

I am a loyal follower of the ancient traditions of my people, but I respect those of yours. I love my homeland, but I wish Morwha would have one more hand to comfort my grief.

I know Dibella says: Open your heart to the noble secrets of art and love. Treasure the gifts of friendship. Seek joy and inspiration in the mysteries of love. But I wonder if those noble secrets of love are open to men as they are open to women. I wonder if the Eight Divines are different enough for me to change.

I fell in love with him when I was fourteen. We were friends since we were five. Since I first saw him in that way, I have never told him anything about it. We share the food, the steel and the blood, but I fear to share my feelings. I have killed and I have bled for him. But we are nobles and our families cannot waste a profitable marriage. So, I ask you and I ask Dibella: Could I seek joy and inspiration in the body of my beloved companion? Could such a strange love be acceptable to Dibella's eyes? Could I open my heart to him freely as I wish without fear? Could he love me?

Respectful regards, Baron Yashu al-Aydin of Herne"

“Dear Madame Viliane, may this letter finds you healthy and lighthearted.

As an Argonian hatched and raised in Daggerfall, I have a fairly good understanding of how most see intimate relationships with those that are deemed uncivilized. Being newly matured in such a place has been... er... lonely; until recently that is, but now I find myself on the other side of the debate.

Four months ago I was exploring just off the shores of Glenumbra looking for any sunken item that I could sell, when i overheard the loud cries of a harpy; I came ashore to help. To my surprise I did not find some astray tourist under attack by a flock, but the reverse. A single harpy Matron -the ones with dark feathers and jewelry- was being robbed by three Redguards not just of her finery, BUT OF HER EGGS! As a male Argonian this sent me into a rage. After driving off the trio, the Matron had rewarded me... quite affectionately. I have been visiting her each week and each time I leave she seems even sadder to see me go.

I have made up my mind to make this relationship permanent; while I know how others will see it; i'll willingly take their insults, but my greatest concern is that the Goddess of Affection will see our love as blasphemous or tainted. Am I over-reacting or must I live in fear of the Divine?

Sincerely: Dives-For-Treasure"

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “The heart seeks what it desires, noble Baron and lusty Argonian, regardless of the chest it beats within. If your affection is pure and untainted by coercion, it is blessed in the eyes of Dibella. For has she not said, 'No matter the seed, if the shoot is nurtured with love, will not the flower be beautiful?'"

“Hail Augustine Viliane,

I am Alaesir Morellian, a humble Breton Apprentice within the Camlorn Mages' Guild, and I beg for your aid. I am besotted by the beauty of two of my Masters: one an Altmer with the most noble bearing and countenance; the other a Dunmer whose red eyes and grey, ashen skin deeply intrigue me for their exotic beauty. I think on them every night hoping for inspiration from Dibella as to how to win their favour, but this has only resulted in complaints from the Guildhouse servants that I ought to wash my own bedclothes from now on...

How should I court the noble Estirdalin given that Altmer, generally, view Men as inferior and are allegedly so concerned about purity of bloodline?

I have turned to my fellow Apprentices for advice but they have no more idea of how to court and win the affections of these Mer than they do about casting a competent healing spell. They tell me that High Elves must surely be “stuffy and pompous" within the bedchamber and that I ought to focus on Brelayne Hllervu given the reputation of Dark Elves. Is there any truth in that?

How should I go about winning her favour? She doesn't seem to like any other races very much, persisting in calling out “N'Wah" and “S'wit" at anyone who wanders past her study.

Kind regards, Alaesir Morellian."

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “A dilemma indeed! Regarding the High Elf, see my answer to Enchanter Dumonte above—perhaps you can intrigue your fair Altmer with something along those lines. As for the Dark Elf, I can confirm their reputation for an appetite for amorous dalliance from personal experience. If she wears her neck-scarf with the point on the left, toward her heart, this may be taken as a signal that she is open to approach. But if it points to the right, beware.

“More to the point, as it were, is where YOUR true feelings lie, young Alaesir. Consult your own heart on this matter—and don't be too shy to speak to our Camlorn Sibyl, Lady Siquine."

"Hello Sibyl, I have a question for you:

After reading various nordic narratives from our libraries, it seems that the old Nords were practicing the polygamy, notably in the famous recital of the Five Hundred Companions during the Feast of the Dead, where the Companions are cited with their numerous husbands and/or wives.

But I fail to find any modern reference about it. I wondering; what's happenned to this practice? Is the polygamy still a thing among the Nords?" – Iszara the Restless, Singer of the Scenarist Guild

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “I'm afraid that you have fallen into a common misconception about the early Nords, one based on their use of the term 'War-Wives.' This phrase is used interchangeably with 'Shield-Sisters,' and refers to the Nords' women warriors, rather than to wedded wives. Though a War-Wife might be married to a Shield-Brother, or even to a non-warrior, such relationships were (mostly) monogamous."

"Ah, dearest Sybil of our Blessed Lady. It's nice to converse with somebody local for a change, especially one so venerated as yourself. My question for you pertains less to courtship rituals and more towards the perception of the Lady herself in High Rock. Recently, I took a trip to Daggerfall to visit the various alchemy and enchanting shops in that fair city, and stopped by the Chapel of the Divines to listen to a sermon while I was there. I was shocked and dismayed to hear the priest tell his flock to "beware" the "charms of Dibella" or some such. He had spoken so highly of the other seven Divines, and I found it odd that the Lady of Love, Beauty, Art and Music would be vilified in such a fashion. Is she not one of the blessed Eight? Did Akatosh not choose the others to serve at His side? What should I tell people who imply that the Lady is somehow craven or unworthy of our praise? I feel particularly strongly about this, as it was the cult of Dibella which brought me into the faith of the Divines in the first place. I want people to understand how kind and benevolent she is. Will you help me to find the words, O Sybil?" – Legate Cyclenophus of the Bretonic Imperial Restoration Society

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “By Her Lips! You've been listening to the sermons of Father Pitof of the Daggerfall Cathedral, haven't you? The pious father is devoted to theology, but as I have reason to know, he is not passionate only about our duty to worship the Eight. But it doesn't do, after one night of worship to Dibella, to get all proprietary about one's ardor-partner. I fear I spoke more sternly than he liked, and may have sent him back to Daggerfall with a grudge against Our Lady and those who serve her. Hopefully, with time, he will find his way back to joy."

“Faithful Sibyl, with the Kothringi people all but gone from this world, a great cultural gap has appeared in the depopulated mangroves of their native Argonia. As a direct link to Dibella, surely you must feel the goddess's pain from the loss of some of her most devout worshippers. We know that the Lady of Love was held in high regard by the Kothringi, but historians regretfully know very little of their courtship traditions. Can you speak on their behalf, that we might honour their memory?" – Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “The Kothringi, though tragically extinct, have not been gone for long, and are well-remembered by their former neighbors. Many of the Lustrous Folk lived in the vicinity of Gideon in the region known as Murkmire. It is my understanding that, due to recent trade agreements, the road between Gideon and Leyawiin will soon be reopened, and traffic with the old Kothringi homelands will then resume. When that occurs, I will forward your interesting question to my Sister Sibyl in Gideon—though if your curiosity is so great, you might even choose to make the journey yourself."

“Dear Augustine Viliane, Sybil of Dibella

I have a question of a rather unnatural,perhaps to some even disgusting, nature. No, I'm not trying to court a Daedra. A certain young Bosmer girl caught my eye a couple of weeks ago, mainly because she managed to drink half of the Nords in the Horker's Tusk tavern under the table without passing out. I was instantly smitten, but she kept ignoring my advances. Then one day, as I left the inn I saw her take someone along in an alley. She had a strange air about her, so I followed them. Moments later I saw her, bent over a hapless victim, piercing red eyes and skin white as moonlight. Ysmir's beard! I'd been trying to flirt with a vampire! And yet, even though I know what she is, it doesn't change my feelings for her. Would Dibella shun me for my abnormal affection, or does she believe in love for all, regardless of form? How should does someone court a vampire without getting killed?" – Jonnlur the Willful, Nord

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “Alas, Jonnlur, such a path is perilous, and if you choose to follow it, you are more likely to need the advice of a Priest of Arkay than of a Sibyl of Dibella. For Undeath is corruption, and one who willingly remains a vampire and feeds on others is impure of spirit. I have spoken to Father Rangouze, the leading Priest of Arkay here in Wayrest, and he says that the pull you feel toward this Wood Elf is not love, nor even joyous lust, but a darker urge that you must try to put behind you. Be not willful, but rather strong, and turn away, for you are in danger, both body and soul."

My Lady Sybil,

I write to you, in hope of clarity on a matter of faith and, perhaps, guidance as I seek to find my partner in life.

I am blessed with two loving parents, thank Mara. I was raised by my mother in the traditional Altmeri way and on the whole my Nordic father accepted this. Unfortunately, this concord broke down whenever the subject of Dibella was raised. As you'll know, Dibella is missing from the Altmeri pantheon. Yet Father would insist Dibella's patronage was required when seeking love. I'm told he was a patron of the Dibellan Arts but the less spoken of this, the better.

When I asked Mother about this apparent courtship requirement, she would say, “Jephre is the god of natural beauty. He told the tale of Creation that all may know their role and form. He blessed the Altmer and the Summerset Isles with beauty unsurpassed. He taught the birds to sing and inspired even the stars with his songs. Dibella is a poorly understood song-echo of Jephre, misinterpreted by foolish Nords who care only for the pleasures of the body and nothing of the soul. Seek Jephre's blessing and you'll find your soulmate".

Meanwhile, father would say, “Jephre? Shor's bones! A pale imitation of the full-figured Dibella, fit only for milk-drinkers! The prudish elves are so found of blathering about the loftiness of their gods because their heads are in the clouds. Seek Dibella's counsel to satisfy your urges."

My own suspicion is that both gods are aspects of the same deity. Whether one is an aspect of the other or a 'more accurate' Aedric interpretation seems pure semantics. I say Auri-El, you say Akatosh. Of course, I take nothing for granted so I invoke both whenever pursuing any creative endeavour or partaking in any courtship ritual. Yet, despite this careful piety, I remain single!

Tell me, dear Sybil, am I going about this the right way? Or am I doomed to an eternity alone because I hedge my bets? Who can understand the will of the Aedra? What do they WANT from us? The panic is literally spewing from me! I can't take it anymore! Must… find… smelling salts…

Yours desperately,

Lady Aereda, Author of “Lamentations of Phynaster: A Study in the Grief Symbolism of Hawks"

Sibyl Augustine Viliane says, “My Lady Aereda, you are an academic, and I fear you have fallen into the scholar's trap of thinking too hard about a matter where thinking is of little value. 'Careful piety' may have its uses (though I admit, none come to mind at the moment), but it is standing between you and finding your heart's desire. Seek beauty that gives you joy, and don't concern yourself with its theological origins."

June 6, 2015
 

“To Haskill,

I have found myself wondering if there is some reason the Mad God is so fond of cheese. Is there a significant reason for this? I mean no disrespect, of course, but I find the taste of cheese to be, well, disgusting. Does the Mad God just like the taste of cheese, or is it something deeper? I apologize if I offend you by saying this, but one must truly be mad to love the foulness of... cheese. I am merely a curious Nord with far too much time on her hands, but I am hoping you will have the extra time to answer my brief - and hopefully not insulting - question."

Sincerely, Aniki Frostward of Windhelm

Chamberlain Haskill says, “I am not, myself, fond of cheese, and cannot explain the Master's predilection for it. Unless he does it just to be irritating. Sometimes he does things just to be irritating."

“Hi! I think I'm not mad, but may you read the following like I am so.

How is it possible to a Daedra Lord, an et'Ada spirit of chaos, to be the Prince of Order like is Jyggalag, the antagonist of Sheogorath?

And another question for you: Have you ever considered that all of us, et'Ada and mortals, are nothing but characters of a game being played by unknown entities from outside the Aurbis? Maybe then that Sheogorath is the amused voice of the game creators.

And another more question for you: Is the cheese a corpse of milk?" - Shanke-Naar Righthorn

Chamberlain Haskill says, “Oh, yes. Very funny. In my position I get a lot of this sort of thing, as you might expect. You might even wonder if I'm tired of it yet. I'd wager that, if you thought hard, you could come up with the answer. Maybe.

“Nonetheless, the Master has given me the task of answering these questions, so I shall duly answer them. In my experience, Daedric Princes are much like cheese: some of them are hard, some of them are soft, and some of them have blue veins running through their substance. Thus: Jyggalag.

“And if we are nothing but characters in an elaborate game played by unknown entities, well, why aren't I having any fun?"

“Dear Haskill (or otherwise servant of Sheggorath, yes?),

I was wondering. In my people's Pantheon - the Khajiit Pantheon, yes, it seems my people believe in Sheogorath, or, well, Sheggorath as we call him as a Mad God, understandably. Do my people even worship Sheggorath? Or is he just labelled as a bad omen, and, why is his name put in unison for the drug addiction that comes with Skooma and Moon Sugar, eh? I do not understand - but this is probably because I am not a very cultured Khajiit. Cultured in my own terms, that is. I am cultured in, like. Stabbing Daedra.

I hope you fade into the Dark Behind the World, Vadanni"

Chamberlain Haskill says, “Ah, the cats. I have never liked cats personally, but the Mad God enjoys their company, I suppose because they're inexplicable and unpredictable. I am told that the Khajiit revere both the Aedra and the Daedra, worshiping whichever Divine seems most applicable to whatever they're praying for or swearing by. But then, to a cat, immediate personal convenience is everything. In fact, you're not even paying attention anymore, are you?"

“Are the mortal inhabitants of the Shivering Isles subject to the effects of Time? Those who have departed Tamriel under Lord Sheogorath's wing seem to live for centuries in between Greymarches if the ravings of madmen are to be believed. Knowledge of their fate might help assuage the grief of certain members of the Mages Guild who have had recent dealings with the Madgod."

– Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Chamberlain Haskill says, “Oh, of course, 'Doyen,' because assuaging the grief of mortals is so important to me. Let me be clear: inhabitants of the Shivering Isles are affected by Time, but we are not subject to it. We are subjects of Lord Sheogorath, who subjects us to whatever subjects he is in the mood to subjudicate. Because Time is subjective."

“Ah, the transmission worked. Lots of interference in the transliminal barriers today. Haskill, is it? I'm led to believe you're the Chamberlain to Lord Sheogorath himself. I imagine this is an administrative office that handles a wide array of interesting duties. I'm not sure if the following inquiry is within your area of expertise, but I've been curious about some of the inhabitants of Sheogorath's realm for some time. I acquired a tome a while back. (Well, "acquired" is a rather mundane way of describing a book popping out of thin air from a tiny portal and landing on my head hard enough to knock me out for the better part of an hour, but there are a lot of unusual things happening during this Planemeld.)

Getting back to the point, I found the subject matter fascinating. This tome seems to have originated in the realm you administrate for your Lord, and concerns some of the native flora and fauna. Several species were named which are quite alien to my home sphere of Nirn, such as Elytra and Grummites. Interestingly enough, despite inhabiting a Daedric realm, these creatures are said to lay eggs and reproduce in much the same way mortal animals of Mundus do. I found this quite strange, as I've always been taught that only Daedra live in Oblivion realms, and that Daedra do not reproduce as we do. Was my research misleading, or are these creatures not Daedra at all? If not, where do they originate and why do they live within your Lord's sphere?"

- Legate Cyclenophus of the Bretonic Imperial Restoration Society

Chamberlain Haskill says, “You don't know very much about Oblivion realms, 'Legate,' if you don't know that they reflect, and are indeed physical manifestations of, the Princes who rule over them. My master is the Prince of Madness, yet for some reason you expect his realm to follow the same rules that regulate your own bland little world. Do you wonder why I have no interest in visiting Tamriel? It's an act of mad charity that Lord Sheogorath pays it any attention at all.

“What is a Legate, anyway? Is it like a Doyen? I hope not."

“Scribed verbatim by Svarnor Far-Traveled, on request of his brother Svalti of the same clan. Svarnor apologizes for his brother's condition and hopes this letter will not influence his application into the service of Arkay.

Dear Haskill, Chamberlain of He Who Is Seen In Storms, bringer of many fears and destroyer of pleasure, may his name be worshipped above all else,

I find of late a new and all-encompassing fear has encompassed me. This fear is the terror that perhaps my ears only imagine and the Mad God speaks to me not. After pondering this new and beautiful nightmare for thirty-three days, I must ask of you, please answer to me this- with all the thousands of fools in the world, believing themselves insane when they have merely said the wool and offered up words and cabbages whilst eating soul gems, how can one truly be sure they listen to the whispers echoing from the Madhouse? The neighbors whisper to, almost as often as they listen, and the walls are thin.

What, I ask you, Haskill, Secretary of He Who Laughs in Terror, is the method with which I can attain most perfect worry? How can I master and grow in my recognition of the things which are dangerous, and the people whom I must Not Trust? Of all the thousand worships of the Bearded Man, the Mad Star, which is the trustworthy one? There are fools in the world who would think to behave in such ways as would make even the most yellow seem purpled and I will not be one of them. I have searched the libraries, but one cannot trust what is written in books- books even can be traps for the mind even as the nightmares can release them into perfect awareness.

Please, Haskill, Doorman of the Shivering Isles, please answer me. I have searched for so long to become perfect in what others call madness and fully aware of the perils which surround me. I must know- I must must must know if I have been praying and listening and seeing a farce. What of the Khajiit who live beyond the walls? Their Skooma Cat provides for them, and they see him sometimes too. Must I warn them, or watch them? Depart with them, or dispose of them? I know you, Haskill, are not perfect in your awareness. Only He is, but I beg to know things to know things to know things to know things YES THAT IS FOUR, BROTHER DO NOT INTERRUPT back to the letter oh Haskill please inform me of the answers to which I need to know the questions to listen to the dreams more closely while waking and to enter to the entrance without missing and being trapped by the deceivers they are here deceiving me always I hear their whispers in the darkness when the torches burn and in the light when they are silenced.

Sign it Svalti Far-Traveled NO DO NOT SAY YOU WROTE IT BROTHER WHAT ARE YOU WRITING NOW-

At this point, my brother collapsed into a furious fit and began to tear at the walls. I am writing this now, several hours later. I hope that it would be healing for my brother to receive a response from one who he evidently holds so close to his heart and, in addition, if this is (as I suspect) a hoax and a scam and this will go no further than some shack outside Bruma, I wish you to know that if my brother does not receive a response, we will personally hunt down those responsible for the lies and punish them severely in honor of the Lord of the Never There, king of the True-Seers and Laughing-Terrors and the Two-Faced Men. I hope that my application to study the service of Arkay is not influenced by this"

Svarnor Far-Traveled, with assistance from Svalti of the same name.

Chamberlain Haskill says, “Here, Svarnor, this never fails. Tell your brother, 'Svalti, you must eat the eggplant. You know which one I mean. You can trust me, because I'm your friend. Not like the Others.'"

“Greetings Haskill, Chamberlain to the Mad God.

Rumors and stories abound regarding the deeds of your master, but there are some hidden things I would dare to inquire about.

Firstly, I have heard whispers of a Daedric Prince of Order, long since lost. As this being must be considered the embodiment of all things abhorred by your lord, I wonder if you have any knowledge of this “Jyggalag"? Has Sheogorath banished him? Or is he perhaps merely uninterested with the disorder that makes Tamriel?

Secondly, I must ask about your own nature. In a realm defined by madness of all sorts, you seem to be a most sane being. Indeed, your nature seems rather opposite to that of your lord. Who and what are you? I have heard some say that you are in fact an aspect of the Mad God, as Barbas is to Clavicus Vile. Personally, I think it more likely that you are simply (if that word applies to anything related to Sheogorath) the steward of the Shivering Isles. Still, the rumor is interesting."

Sincerely as is possible when discussing the Mad God, Takrios the Indomitable

Chamberlain Haskill says, “I have had similar questions about my 'nature' from Alessandra, Legoless, and an Unnamed One, so I suppose I must address the matter. I am a Vestige, all that remains of a mortal from your world who 'mantled' Sheogorath during an event in a previous time. As a fragment, my memory of the event is … fragmentary. I am hazy on the entire concept of 'mantling,' but it had something to do with Lord Sheogorath, myself, and this Jyggalag of whom you speak. I have asked the Mad God to explain it to me, but he just laughs and says maybe he'll tell me about it 'next year,' whatever that means.

“Sometimes the Master irritates even me. I can't remember why I put up with it, actually."

“Most esteemed Haskill,

It is an honour to speak to one who knows the Mad God so intimately. Although I would have preferred an audience with the enigmatic Sheogorath himself, I suppose your deep knowledge of him would suffice. I have heard from many a people how much your Lord delights in the noble taste of cheese, although I have also heard he enjoys flaying his guests first and sipping their blood at later. Chilling. But let us focus on the cheese! What kind of mortal cheese, if any, does your lord enjoy? We Bretons are famous for our cheeses, and I would be most interested to learn if your Master has tasted the delicacies of High Rock. Do tell him of our wonderful La Chèvre Loren and the Langre du Ollere - they are best relished with a cup of blackberry wine! But enough of my ramblings! Please, relay my question to your Lord. If you would like a sample of our cheeses, I would be delighted to send you a batch when I return to my mansion in Gavaudon, provided there is a way to do so."
Yours excitedly, Grand Enchanter Etienne Dumonte, of the Wayrest Mages Guild

Chamberlain Haskill says, “Your application for a position in the Shivering Isles has been accepted, and you will start on Morndas as High Fromage Sommelier to Lord Sheogorath. Bring your own grapefruit spoon, and don't wear too much cologne—he hates that."

“I pen this letter with little patience or love for yourself or the Daedric Prince that you serve, corner of the House of Troubles and purveyor of chaos that he is.

However, I must confess, despite my loyalty to the Three and my boundless disdain for your domain, I do have one question burning in the back of my mind.

Many years ago, in my younger years, I had the gross misfortune of finding myself within the Shivering Isles after a Fredas night involving a shrine of Sheogorath, a copy of the Lusty Argonian Maid and more sujamma than I'd care to admit. Upon awaking back on Tamriel (how or why I was transported away from this dread realm I cannot say), I began studying the various texts and writings that discuss Sheogorath's most foul domain.

While doing so, I discovered that the Shivering Isles are also variously referred to as the Madhouse and the Asylums. I then came to wonder - is the Shivering Isles the name for Sheogorath's entire plane, or could it stretch even farther? Are the Shivering Isles perhaps a mere region, a single territory, of a larger Madhouse, a greater collection of Asylums? And how great a length, exactly, does the bewildering realm of Sheogorath truly span?

I thank you in advice for any reply as I excuse myself to atone for this sinful correspondence by saying my devotions to the Three,"

- Neldam Indrano

Chamberlain Haskill says, “My best advice to you, friend Neldam, is to go on wondering about this, devoting ever more effort to it until it dominates your every waking moment, and everything you do is overshadowed by your need to find the answer. Go do that.

“Because then, one day, you will be in a position to find out for yourself."

“I am but a humble servant of the lady of light and life, blessed Meridia. I ask this of the servant of the madgod: The number of princes is not static, Meridia proves that by her existence as a fallen star child, is the number 16 arbitrary? Are there Daedric princes in Oblivion that are unknown to us mere mortals? Princes who have never felt the need to interact with Mundus?" - Lami Wind-Speaker, Priestess of Meridia

Chamberlain Haskill says, “The best answer to this question is another: How many, Lami Wind-Speaker, are the Accords of Madness?"

“To Haskill, Sheogorath's Chamberlain,

In relation with the repatriation of Eyevea, I have heard recently Sheogorath bargained the ancient Abecean island in a confrontation with the Arch-Mage Shalidor. I have always wondered how could Eyevea disappear...

So, I ask you: is Sheogorath interested in expanding the Shivering Isles with new acquisitions after the loss of Eyevea? I fear my people in Herne or in the rest of the Abecean Archipelago could be in danger as many freemen and most nobles have left our home to fight in Cyrodiil for the Daggerfall Covenant. And I have to know if I have to reinforce Herne's defenses."

Regards, Baron Yashu al-Aydin of Herne

Chamberlain Haskill says, “My dear Baron, I have relayed your real estate proposal to Lord Sheogorath, and he is considering the terms under which he would agree to acquire your island of … what was the name? Herne? However, he would like to know your island's shape, as the Master likes his islands to fit into a nice paisley pattern. He doesn't like shapes that are too regular, and has a particular abhorrence for the rhombus. Herne isn't a rhombus, is it?"

Famed Argoinian “historian” Jee-Lar returns to once again answer your Murkmire-themed questions about the Saxhleel people, their culture, and their history. If you missed it, don’t forget to check out part one of this series as well!

Greetings, dryskins and fellow Argonians, Jee-Lar welcomes you again to the inquiry-dance! Studying many things and remembering what I’ve learned is what I do, so I hope once more to be able to answer your many questions, and that’s a fact!

Since it’s established that the Lamia are intelligent sentient creatures capable of fluent speech and verbal communication, why haven't they established more permanent dwellings? They have hands capable of making and using tools, so what's stopping them from advancing? – Arch Mikem

I’m not sure where in Tamriel you hail from, Beeko Arch, but it must be one of those provincial locales where a temporary economic uptick has resulted in a construction boom, which in turn has led the local mortals to conclude that “building” equals “advancement” of some sort. How wry! How fanciful! Really, I love you dryskins. Anyway, as it happens, you have come to the right Saxhleel with your question, for I once met a lamia on the border of Blackwood and had a long conversation with her, during which many subjects were addressed. I came across her in some Barsaebic ruins where she was drowsing in the sun, belly distended and leisurely digesting—well, I didn’t think it would be tactful to ask what. I asked her why lamias so often resided in ruins, and she flicked her tongue and hissed, “Where else? Are there not more civic scars in Tamriel than solid structures? The humans and Elveses, so silly, they set up city after city, surrender to struggle and discord, and succumb to the scourge of strife. The sequel? Expanses of ruins, all set for snatching. It’s simple! Edifice assembly is for suckers.”

This one holds an artisanal bakery of sweet and sugary specialties and has heard stories about a delicious ingredient from Argonia called “daril.” What is it exactly? Do you know of recipes mixing daril and sugar? Surely there are coins to be made, yes? - Hazazhun-dar the Bittersweet

Ah, daril, so much fun-fun! One drop on a Saxhleel tongue, and vossa-satl tangos taste like peppermint prickly pears, and an egg-sibling can dance all night with a torchbug! But rare, not easy to get, oh no, for you must first catch a moon-adder and express its venom, and then ferment it for many swims in a swamp jelly gas bladder. Also, no-no fun for dryskins because it kills them instantly, so if you have some daril, Baker-Beeko, you should not taste it but instead save it for Jee-Lar. Right?

When I was a hatchling, I played amongst places that often were forbidden by the grownup dull-scales. I remember one time I saw drawings that looked old of half-Saxhleel, half-tree creatures. Was this symbolic to show the bond between us and the Hist, or was there a time when we were of a different form? It is also said that even if a human consumes Hist-sap and grows up with it, that they are also Argonian enough. Are the Hist so generous to all? – Hunts-for-Wisdom

Ah, Hunts-for-Wisdom, it sounds like your youthful self stumbled upon some lithographs of the Parable of Becoming, albeit in a crude and ambiguous depiction, which may be why your elders tried to steer you clear of it. You know the story I mean: the allegory of the Hist perceiving humans and Elves, admiring “their walking legs and clever hands,” and then molding and re-molding the swamp’s Useful Lizards until they found they had made Argonians.

As for the effects of Hist sap on dryskins, I have heard that certain ill-advised High Elves tried to experiment with this but were prevented by Others. Probably for the best, right-right?

What is a name of your Province in Jel? Now it is known as Argonia, or worse, Black Marsh. Both names are alien, and both are given by other races, but then why do all guides and scholarly works use alien names for your beautiful and mysterious land? It is unfair! Therefore, I ask you to write a true name, given by Saxhleel! – Maximus Ferras

That is not as easy to answer as you might think, Maximus! First of all, “province” is an Imperial concept that most Argonians struggle with, though I think I’ve finally got it. I mean, why use a single name to describe so much varied difference? An Argonian’s idea of their home place rarely extends beyond their Hist’s farthest root-hairs. I did hear a Gee-Rusleel once use the wide-swamp gesture along with the term “kronka-thatith,” roughly everything-egg, and that may be as close to a province name as you’re going to get in Jel.

This one hopes you can tell him about the general history between Argonian and its Imperial neighbors, and maybe even between Argonian and its Khajiit neighbors. Are relationships overall good? – Recremen

Alas and woe, we are in sad-sad times, Recremen, because the mild illness we called the Half-Swim Sniffles passed out of our marshes and into the lands of the dryskins, who called the illness the Knahaten Flu and did not find it mild at all, oh, no. Your people, the furred ones who live to our west, were struck particularly hard—perhaps you have been traveling? The Khajiiti folk suffered greatly, and blamed us Saxhleel for inflicting the epidemic upon them. Which is so terribly, terribly unfair! We would never wish such a thing upon our friends the furred ones! The Gray Elves, sure, but that’s different, nobody likes them.

Being a priestess of our loving Mother Mara, I’m trying to find as much information on Tamrielic wedding traditions as I can. However, when I tried to learn about Argonian wedding traditions, I was rather confused after discovering a horrible book! It stated that Argonians don’t have weddings at all, and that mating is a simple call to procreation. Moreover, it said mating is a kind of annual trial event – only trial winners are allowed to mate. I always imagined an Argonian wedding as a complex, delicate, and ethereal ritual. Please, let me know the truth, whatever is it, in name of our loving Mother! – Leonidas Tavicus

Oh, yes, well—“weddings.” We don’t have an exact cognate of that word in Jel, probably because the concept of procreational partnership varies so much from tribe to tribe. There’s, let’s see, “uvastuxith,” nest-becoming, and there’s “tumjum,” or house-weaving, which is more allegorical, and “thtithatei,” which is, er, egg-stomach. And so many more! The gloor of its Hist mandates each tribe’s pattern of affection-sharing and egg-quickening. And as Argonians are adaptable-by-induction to their Hist’s gloor, numerous possibilities eventuate! And as for inter-tribal bonding rites, well, anything can happen! You can believe Jee-Lar when he says that no Saxhleel who reaches the age of interfertility is bored. We have even adopted the dryskins’ quaint custom of gifting each other with Rings of Mara, a practice we find surprisingly moving. Anyway, good question, Leonidas, but I sense my Deer-Naza erecting the spine of… um, must go now! Later! Xuth!

July 10, 2015

“Pacrooti, I must thank you for your last shipment of nightwood logs. However, I have to ask: where do you find this wood? In all my travels, I've never seen anything that resembles a living nightwood tree here on Tamriel. Is it just my untrained eye?" – Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Pacrooti says, “This one also has never seen a nightwood tree, and Pacrooti still remembers the day a client first demanded some. Pacrooti did not know what to send the client, and admits that he was dismayed, until he remembered that a Khajiit is always resourceful. This one waited until night fell, and then went to a lumber yard. Pacrooti is thoughtful of others, and was very quiet as he took some wood that no one was using. This one could not tell what kind of wood it was, as it was dark, but Pacrooti sent it to the client, and the client was satisfied. This system has never failed Pacrooti when nightwood is requested. This one believes that disappointing a client is a greater crime than petty theft. Also, crime obviously pays, or there would be no crime, yes?"

"Dearest Pacrooti, or well, fellow Khajiit,

You know, I will admit to you, I have never actually woodworked in my entire life. Then again, most of my life was spent in slavery and fighting, so I suppose I never would have the time for it. Tell me, Pacrooti, how hard is it to handle wood? As a woman I have no idea, you see, as I have never handled wood, firm or soft, in my entire life (as I said before, yes). Do you find it difficult, or adventurous, fun even? Would you mind visiting me in Windhelm sometime too, by the way? So I can handle wood with you? I'd be happy for you to bring your own wood. I'm sure it's better than any I could find around here in Skyrim. It'd be good for someone like me - eager to woodwork - to have a hands-on experience with a master acquirer of wood, such as yourself, no?

Jone and Jode dance kindly with you, Vadanni"

Pacrooti says, “Ah, you wish to be a client for Pacrooti, yes? This one perceives that you are interested in Pacrooti's nightwood. It is very popular, and for this transaction, Pacrooti can guarantee satisfaction. At least for Pacrooti."

“Dear Pacrooti,

I always wondered what happened to you! You were a loyal and efficient gatherer. I could not help but wonder if you were alright after that comment about horses.

Could I, perchance, convince you to come back and work for me for a while?

Your former employer, Elsonso"

Pacrooti says, “Pacrooti has been very busy, taking a vacation. After some very strenuous wood acquisition in which this one was forced to engage in actual labor—very uncomfortable, even stressful!—Pacrooti went to Khenarthi's Roost for a relaxing beach getaway. But on beach only getaway was fleeing from savage alits, which were rife, if 'rife' means what this one thinks it means. Finally Pacrooti found a beach without alits, but it was also rife, this time with driftwood and planks from shipwrecks, which made Pacrooti think about work again. It was a dark, dark time, so this one went to Mistral to drink many sweet cocktails with friendly Khajiit with vertical fur on his head. Rash? Radz? Not sure, but we made many jokes about Elves, and this one forgot all about work. Until Pacrooti was reminded by you."

"Greetings M-A-M-A (Interesting acronym),

Allow this one to introduce herself. This one is named is Anurri, Riverhold's best carpenter and seamstress as well as wandering merchant and mercenary. She has questions for you if you are willing to answer.

Anurri has found numerous abandoned workshops scattered across much of the Dominion's territory and this one's recent shift in sensitivity to paranormal and extraplanar energy has led her to discover that these workshops have an unusual energy to them. For example, creating a full set of medium armor at the abandoned station found in northern Auridon and wearing it tends to make Anurri have a rather conflagrant case of sneezes in the middle of a melee with one of this one's enemies (painful for them) among other lesser effects. While creating another full set of medium armor at the workshop in the western area of Reaper's March makes this one feel more invigorated and energetic, able to fight on for longer and hit a little harder with this one's (fairly) small collection of long range magicka spells.

Do you know what the story (or stories) are for these seemingly abandoned workshops? Is the energies this one feels within their vicinities somehow enchanting the cloth armor Anurri creates? Or is it some other unique feature of these places that imparts temporary knowledge of particular crafting skill to create these special effects within the product?

And as Anurri hears you are also a carpenter, this one would love to trade tips with you at some point. Anurri knows of a technique when applying a temper to the wood during the shellacking process that this one thinks you might have interest in.

Regards, Anurri
Master Carpenter & Seamtress of Riverhold Wandering Merchant & Mercenar"

Pacrooti says, “Interesting coincidence! After six shots of Two-Moon Cordial, Pacrooti can also sense paranormal energies—in fact, this one can feel entire planet of Nirn swaying around him! But you ask sharp-clawed question. Though he has not seen them, Pacrooti too has heard from clients of crafting sites that seem to bestow sweetly unique attributes upon items created there. This one often is most inspired when alchemically enhanced, so Pacrooti drank a skin of moon-sugar double rum and thought about this. And he had an idea! This one has heard that the creativity of Tamrielic mortals was a gift of the gods back in the beginning times. So creation is exercise of the divine spark, yes? Pacrooti likes to think that master craftworkers, who work at the peak of their art, are as magical as mages, and have the equivalent ability to transform local reality—not on purpose, like pointy-hat wizard, but over time just as effectively. So their workshops absorb this artfulness, and pass it on to items crafted there, even if not made by original master crafter. Good theory, yes? Pacrooti is very pleased with it. He will celebrate tonight by returning to tavern, because this one is sure everybody will want to hear it, in great detail."

“As most purists will tell you, ebony and malachite are traditionally held to be the quintessential materials to forge armor and weapons with, given their Lorkhanic nature. Recently, however, we've been seeing much greater use of more exotic metals at the forge. Everything from calcinium to voidsteel is being used to forge equipment nowadays, due to their supposed superiority. Is there some truth to this fad? If so, why did the old masters stop at ebony?" – Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Pacrooti says, “This one asked Valinka Stoneheaver your question, but she was thirsty, and it was many drinks before she got around to answering it. Why are Nords always so thirsty? They do not live in a desert, like Redguards, but Pacrooti has noticed that Nords drink much more than Redguards. But not more than Khajiit—Pacrooti was well able to keep up with Valinka. Pacrooti sometimes thinks he should not drink so much, but he knows better than to take advice from a drunk. The following morning, when Pacrooti woke up in the stable, he was able to remember most of what she said. Valinka told Pacrooti that the use of exotic metals has increased many-fold since the passage of the Guild Act two centuries ago. Establishment of pan-Tamrielic guilds resulted in greater diffusion of knowledge. Smiths learned of interesting metals used only in distant lands, and this drove demand and trade for those materials. Mages Guild pointy-hats also learned how to refine magical ores, and then everyone wanted those too! Very confusing to the old-fashioned, but very lucky for otherwise-unemployable Master Assistant Materials Acquirers!"

"Master Assistant Materials Acquirer Pacrooti,

I'm but a soldier, with no patience for smithing or related crafts. However after seeing too many boastful warriors clad in the silver, was hoping you could enlighten me to the origin of the rare metal mithril?
-Teo Secundus, former Nibenay river guard"

Pacrooti says, “Pacrooti has heard tell of this metal, a material so rare, it no longer even exists! Once smiths in Tamriel could use it to create special arms and armor, but then one day, poof! All gone! Life is indeed strange, no? Is it not humorous to live in a world where even history can change? Even history of future! It makes Pacrooti's head hurt sometimes. Usually in the morning, now that this one thinks about it."

August 10, 2015

“To the most esteemed Chancellor Abnur Tharn,

With the recent legalization and advocacy of the necromantic arts within Cyrodiil as well as the institutionalization of The Order of the Black Worm, will prospective students of necromancy be provided an opportunity to study at the Imperial City? Furthermore, after this business of the so called 'Three Banners War' is over, how will a new Emperor be chosen to replace the glorious Empress Regent, Clivia Tharn?

Sincerely, Othelion Ralnor"

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “After the expulsion of the treacherous Mages Guild from the Imperial City, the Empire of Cyrodiil needed to endorse a more inclusive and responsible caretaker of the magical arts, so the Arcane University was turned over to the stewardship of the Fellowship of Anchorites, sometimes jocularly known as the Order of the Black Worm. Unfortunately, since the University has been occupied by invading Daedra, we haven't had time to assess their new policies, and must hold judgment in abeyance.

“Once these parvenu Alliances have been beaten back to their provinces, as they always are, the Empire will return to its normal practices: prospective Emperors will arise in times of need, and those who are worthy will be recognized by the Elder Council and ascend to the Ruby Throne. But until such a time of need arises, there will be no need to 'replace' our Empress Regent, who is beloved by her subjects, and who reigns by divine right."

“To the illustrious Abnur Tharn, Chancellor of the Elder Council and Lord of Nibenay,
Fair and humble greetings from another son of Nibenay, and much gratitude for your attention in these trying times. Many of us here in Cyrodiil know of your efforts to save the Empire, and pray for your success. Anyway, to business. I have always been fascinated with Imperial culture and the ways of government. I know that you have served as Chancellor for many years, but it is the role of Imperial Battlemage that intrigues me most. I have seen documents recording several different Imperials family names holding the post at different times in history, implying that it isn't an inherited post, but nothing as to how one is selected. Hence, my question: how is the Imperial Battlemage chosen, and in what capacity do they serve the Empire?

My prayers, and the prayers of all Cyrod are with you, Chancellor. May Akatosh keep you safe and Reman see you victorious." – Aurelius Aelius of Leyawiin, Episcopate of the Cult of Reman, sometime Freedom Fighter

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “An excellent question, my dear Episcopate, and one that requires a somewhat discursive answer, as the phrase 'Imperial Battlemage' has more than one meaning. Early in the annals of the Empire, the distinction between mages and warriors was more pronounced than it is today. The idea of combining a wizard with an armored warrior was innovative at first, and the original Imperial Battlemages were an elite unit separate from the Imperial Legions. They were further exalted under the Reman Emperors, who granted the title 'Imperial Battlemage' to the unit's leader, and made him an advisor to the Elder Council. Nowadays, when every cohort includes a cadre of spellcasters, 'Imperial Battlemage' just refers to a legion's war-caster troops. But to a student of Imperial history such as I, the name still carries weight, and I wear the title 'Imperial Battlemage' with pride!"

“Esteemed Chancellor Abnur Tharn,

My Lord Abnur Tharn, I pray this message reaches you. Due to recent events I imagine we will need all the Divine help we can get to place this letter into your hands.

As a deserter from the Imperial Legion I now live in High Rock, away from my friends and family trapped in the Heartland. Can you tell this homesick soldier what the state of living is for those still in Cyrodiil? Due to the obvious instability (and madness) of the central government, have local leaders stepped up to keep their people safe and fed?

Signed, Flonius Oaken-Hull"

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “Have local leaders stepped up to protect our people? More so than you, deserter. Conditions in Cyrodiil, particularly in the vicinity of the Imperial City, will remain difficult until such time as our invaders are inevitably repulsed. That time is delayed, and the suffering of the Cyrods is prolonged, so long as deserters like yourself value safety over your Imperial duty. Return now, Flonius Oaken-Hull, help your fellow citizens, and the terms of your punishment for desertion will be … mitigated. Probably."

"Chancellor Abnur Tharn, I presume. You appear rather blue and translucent to me, but that's an effect of viewing you through the memospore. Otherwise, you resemble your official portrait fairly closely. I have a question for you pertaining to the Imperial cultural identity. You are famously a Nibenese nationalist who will wax poetic about the superior nature of the Nibenese, and their various accomplishments, especially when it pertains to your own noble lineage. I was born a Breton, though I later changed my name to an Imperial one, so I can understand this pride in bloodlines and heritage. It's prevalent among my native people as well.

To the meat of the inquiry: The Longhouse Emperors never really fit in, did they? They were seen as alien usurpers at worst, and as uncouth provincials at the best of times. Do you think it's possible that an Emperor of, say, civilized Bretonic or Nordic blood would integrate any better into Imperial society? Both of these peoples have been vassals of the Cyrodiilic Empire in the past. I do believe the Bretons were first brought into the fold by the militant but far-sighted Hestra back in the First Era, although the...excesses of the Alessian Priesthood later caused them to secede.

Would a Breton who has more fully embraced Imperial culture and values be seen any differently? Is there any hope that such a monarch and his descendants could form a lasting dynasty in time? I ask this because I admittedly am a Battlemage fighting for the Daggerfall Covenant, and it has occurred to me that my liege King Emeric may face tough opposition from the Elder Council were we to successfully seize the Imperial City. What course of action would you suggest, hypothetically, for a foreign-born monarch to be well received by both the common folk and the nobility of Cyrodiil?" – Legate Cyclenophus of the Bretonic Imperial Restoration Society

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “What is the Empire of Cyrodiil, really? It is the Empire of Humanity, and has welcomed all men and women into its embrace since its beginning in St. Alessia's Slave Rebellion, which fought for all the tribes enslaved by the Heartland Elves. Under Alessia's banner, Colovian fought beside Nede, Nord fought beside Nibenese, and the accursed Ayleids were overthrown. White-Gold Tower, the hub of Tamriel, came into human hands, and so it has been ever since.

“Historically the folk of Nibenay, the most sophisticated and subtle of our human societies, have provided the lion's share of Emperors to the Ruby Throne, but there have also been Emperors of Colovian or Nord extraction, some of whom made very creditable rulers. The Empire has always welcomed new peoples under the Red Diamond, regardless of background. After the crossbred Breton folk finally threw off the yoke of their Elven masters, did not Empress Hestra reach out to beckon them to join us? Even such latecomers to Tamriel as the Redguards were admitted to the Imperial brotherhood when Hammerfell was made an official province.

“So I say to, yes, Cyclenophus, yes—even a noble Breton like your Warchieftain Emeric could conceivably, under conditions that are unlikely but by no means beyond the realms of possibility, be found worthy to ascend the throne of Cyrodiil. It would help if he followed your lead, noble legate, and showed a becoming respect by adopting a less harsh-sounding and more Imperial name—perhaps Emeritus, or Emicio. Perhaps you could persuade him to it?"

“Chancellor Tharn,

Before Mannimarco's recent departure from the City, what role did the King of Worms play in post-Soulburst Imperial politics? Your daughter Clivia has de jure regency following Emperor Varen's disappearance, but it is commonly claimed that Mannimarco is, in fact, the one who sits the Ruby Throne. Additionally, how does Clivia mean to reassert her right to rule, given that the Alliances sent forth a new pretender almost daily?" – Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “Alas, Sir Doyen, you are ill-informed, but you are probably not to blame—the Alliance spy services put so much effort into disparaging and discrediting our recent governing nobility that it should come as no surprise that credulous folk believe their lies. Take, for example, your use of the title 'King of Worms' regarding Mannimarco. Really, man, just think for a moment: who would actually call himself 'King of Worms'? That should have been a clear indication that whatever followed was going to be slander and character assassination.

“In point of fact, Lord Mannimarco has never been more than an advisor to the throne. Though valued for his wisdom and experience, he is ineligible on several counts for actual rule in Cyrodiil. Furthermore, in the current temporary disarray, his whereabouts are unknown. Doubtless, like everyone else in this troubled time, he is simply doing his best to help his people get through it.

“As for the Alliance pretenders, they are beneath contempt. As ephemeral as moths, they flare for a moment in the candle flame and are gone, soon to be forgotten. Their widows and widowers may remember their names, but Cyrodiil will not."

“Hail Chancellor, while many harbor ill feelings about your involvement in the Planemeld I feel more sympathetic toward your situation, you were tricked and in the shock that resulted upon you learning this you chose the most logical path of survival, who are we to criticize when none of us have faced such a dilemma? I ask you this: considering the state of flux within Cyrodiil at this time, and the lack of Imperial leadership; who cares for the interests of the Imperials of Cyrodiil? Their land is disputed on all sides by foreigners, the few Imperial soldiers that remain do so in small groups spread thin and seemingly not in contact with each other, nobody stands by the gates of the Imperial City, attempting to regain access. The only organized effort I have witnessed from the once proud people of Cyrodiil comes from your niece, who wages war in Bangkori against the fearsome and united Daggerfall Covenant. Does Septima hold the interests of those in Cyrodiil at heart as she wages war, or does your daughter, Clivia? And if Clivia is in fact ruling as Empress-Regent where is she, and how does she contact her people to co-ordinate anything? Your family seems to hold what is left of Imperial power Chancellor Tharn, I wonder whether you feel confident they can keep it, and bring your people back from the brink of despair.

With Regards, Asrien Lagerborn, scholar of Kerbol's Hollow"

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “As Dark Anchors fall, Daedra swarm, and provincials strut and posture in the Heartland of Cyrodiil, all may appear to be chaos and ruin. But so long as the Empire exists as an idea in the heart of humanity, so long as true men and women refuse to accept the shackles of Elven overlords or Daedric Princes, the Empire of Cyrodiil can never truly fall. Rest assured, the Empress Regent and her loyal Elder Council are taking active steps to ensure that no trespasser in Cyrodiil, from Alliance or Oblivion, shall long profit from their invasion. Measures are being adopted that will once more bring the Empire to the fore. The course of history tends inevitably toward a Tamriel under the Red Diamond, with all mortals beholden to the wise decrees that issue from the White-Gold Tower. Such is our future, for I have seen it."

“Chancellor Tharn,

I am writing to you on behalf of the Mages Guild today to inquire on our fallout with the Empire, the legalization of Necromancy, and the future of our order in the Imperial City.

First off, what was your stance on the affair of our expulsion at the time? I imagine that you played a major role in it due to your associations with the King of Worms. Speaking of the Order of the Black Worm, how did the general public react to Necromancy suddenly being made legal, a practice condemned for many years in history? I understand Arch-Mage Vanus Galerion was always strongly opposed to the practice, and I cannot imagine that he had any kind words for you on that, which leads to my final question for you. Should the Mages Guild reestablish itself in the Arcane University, an order strongly opposed to Necromancy, do you think that the Black Arts will once again be declared an illegal practice?

Thank you for your time today, and I sincerely hope that you have learned from your mistakes in the past on allying with Mannimarco, otherwise we will have to come for you.

Wizard Solinar, Daggerfall Mages Guild"

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “Once again I am confronted with ignorance and misunderstanding, and must make an effort to educate a benighted provincial who has fallen prey to libelous propaganda. Urgencies impend, but I must be patient, for a wise ruler leads by example.

“The Mages Guild of Cyrodiil was implicated in the event some call 'the Soulburst,' allegations that were substantiated after due process of investigation. The organization's legal standing under the Guilds Act was revoked, and stewardship of the Arcane University was awarded to Mannimarco's Fellowship of Anchorites—on a probationary basis, of course. Lord Mannimarco is a broad-minded wizard who declared an intention to nullify some of the arbitrary strictures formerly imposed by the Mages Guild. I believe some Colovians objected to this liberalization, but frankly, such arcane matters don't have much to do with the pursuit of good governance in a time of turmoil, so I paid little attention. As to what the Mages Guild might do should they somehow redeem themselves and return to a position of responsibility in Cyrodiil, you are in a better position to address that than I."

"Hmm? Oh, did my astral projection go through? Well then, dearest Chancellor, I hope you still aren't hiding-er, I mean I hope you're still under heavy guard to prevent you from becoming prey to the many horrors that reside within the Imperial City. Never mind the fact that your daughter and several of your friends and family are risking their lives to free the Ruby Isles from the influence of Molag Bal, but...like a swarm of Vvardenfell echkin I erect the spine of irritation and digress. I really do hope you're alright old...friend? No, associate – that's a much more neutral word! Anyway Tharn, I had a question that needs answering and since you're the only person still alive that may know the answer then I decided to risk contacting you. I have heard rumors that my associates at the Imperial Geographical Society and the Imperial Census have been forced to scatter to the wind now that their headquarters in the Imperial City have been destroyed. Because of this, I fear for the 'proper' collection and recordation of the many arts, literature, and ideas that will spring forth from this troubled time. Without such sanctioned groups working to store away present knowledge, how do you and the rest of the Elder Council believe our descendants in the coming eras will view these troubled times we live in?" – Eis Vuur Warden, Wayward and Contract Scholar

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “In fact, this is no trivial problem! Your question is astute, especially from an Argonian. (You were tutored by an Imperial, weren't you? I've always said that, given the right mentor, even the children of Black Marsh can be taught useful skills.) Reliable records are essential to a government's fair and efficient administration of the law. The wanton destruction of archives and scriptoriums by the invading Alliances may, in the end, be their most heinous crime. And the Daedra are even worse! Though citizens may be slaughtered, in time a new generation will rise to replace them—but history, once lost, is gone forever. How will taxes be accurately assessed when there are no documents to tell us who owns what? How will the Cyrods of the future be taught about their glorious antecedents if no one knows of their trials and triumphs? Why, a thousand years from now, even my own wise and heroic leadership may be forgotten, or at least not properly appreciated in its entirety. Paper and parchment are so very vulnerable. (Hmm. Stone statues? Graven tablets? Journals hurled forward through time? There must be a solution….)"

“Dear Chancellor,
I'm interested in your opinion on the ways soul gems are currently handled and on the way humanoid souls are caught.
The Mages Guild has already expressed criticism in this respect, but it doesn't feel able to do something about it.
Is it the handling of humanoid souls something currently accepted because of politics, or are we to expect an Imperial ban if the good relations between the Imperial Throne and the Realm of Oblivion should come to an end.
At the moment I have to assume that the current state is a concession to Molag Bal and his followers.
In times past it was only possible to bind humanoid souls in special black soul gems which, as I heard, are much better suited to harvest the full potential of humanoid souls, while the knowledge to use them was available only to more educated magicians and mystics.
With respect, Alessia Tharn, wandering magician"

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “With respect, 'Alessia Tharn,' these arcane matters have nothing to do with law or governance, and are far beyond the competence of a simple politician like myself. However, it is my understanding that these Black Soul Gems one hears of are a recent invention—though who is responsible for their creation and spread among the wizardry of Tamriel is beyond me. Until recent times, the trapping and binding of souls into prepared crystals was a hit or miss proposition, uncertain and not well understood. Yet now it seems any hedge wizard who obtains a Black Soul Gem can accomplish it. It seems to me that this is a matter that must be sorted out by a consensus among Tamriel's magical community, though I don't know who might manage that since the Mages Guild has fallen into disrepute."

“Chancellor Tharn as an Argonian mage, this one once had chance to hear you speak before the current problems which engulf the Imperial city and it was obvious to all not only your brilliance but you loyalty to the imperial cause as such it is difficult for this humble Argonian to see how the Imperial city which you controlled now appears to be in ruins and little more than a playground for Molag Bal? Perhaps the more important question is what plans do you have to restore the city and restore your place as chancellor not outlaw?
Ash-Tal Argonian Sorcerer"

Chancellor Abnur Tharn says, “Outlaw? The Elder Council may have temporarily relocated to an undisclosed location, but as the legitimate governing body of the Empire of Cyrodiil, it is we, and only we, who decide who or what is within the law. War has come to the Imperial City before, but eventually the invaders will be repulsed, and as always, the people of the Heartland of Tamriel will rebuild! The fact that a few buildings here and there have been knocked down just shows that those structures were weak and in need of replacement. The strong structures are the ones that survive! The situation may look bleak, but that is when the people of the Nibenay Valley are at their most resilient—and loyal! For our true Cyrods know that their proven leadership is hard at work on their behalf to restore order, not just in the Imperial City, but in all Cyrodiil. And not just in Cyrodiil, but across Tamriel! For eventually, the peoples of Nirn always look to the heart of Tamriel for guidance and reassurance. They know that when the Empire is stable and all are deferential to Imperial will and regulation, peace and prosperity shall reign throughout the provinces, and the days of dissension and disorder will be past. For millennia the White-Gold Tower has stood for the rule of law—Imperial law!—and it always shall!"

September 4, 2015
 

“Greetings Lady Honnorah,

I know the beasts are not known to be found in Hammerfell, and therefore I would understand your limited understanding on them, but could netches (both betty and bull) be utilised as mounts? Due to their ability to float it would seem they would be able to bypass obstacles such as steep climbs, allowing the rider to be able to get to places that were seemingly inaccessible beforehand.

Also, out of curiosity, are you familiar with Merric at-Aswala? If so, do you know what creature he might have preferred to ride into battle? I never got the chance to ask him due to his sudden workload as the Fighter's Guild's new guild-master.

Yours sincerely, Alena-Draco, Chief Paladin and Matriarch of House Draco"

Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq says, “Do I know Merric? He is my cousin! As a Redguard Gallant, and more importantly an Aswala, quite naturally he rides a Yokudan Charger.

“I have never seen a netch, of course, but I have heard of them. When I was a child I had a Dark Elf nanny, and she used to tell me Dunmeri folk tales about a character called 'the N'wah Boy,' whose foolish decisions always got him into hilarious predicaments. One story was called 'The N'wah Boy Rides the Netch,' and while I don't remember all the details, I recall that it ended with the lad stranded atop a windmill and stinking of netch gas, which my Elven nanny said was 'worse even than human flatulence.'

“Funny stories aside, I'm afraid flying mounts are entirely a figment of the imagination, and not something anyone will ever see in Tamriel. The idea is attractive, but quite absurd. And unnecessary—when I gallop my mare Asphodel across the dune sea, I might as well be flying, or at least that's how it feels to me!"

"Greetings to you Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq, Mistress of Mounts! Word has reached my ear of your expertise and knowledge of great steeds new and old. I come bearing a question that arose, as many things do here in East-Skyrim, from a very intense spat in one of our time-honored taverns.

A Nordic hunter and a 'City Orc' both stood about a table quarreling with one another about whether or not the Orcs of the West truly road great, woolly caterpillar-like beasts as steeds. The local orc proclaimed that his stronghold-dwelling cousins have used the unique beasts for generations, as they allegedly 'were useful for navigating the rocky crags and slopes of The Reach and Wrothgar '. My kinsman disagreed vehemently with the pigman's assertions and demanded that he get his thick skull checked, naturally. According to the hunter the only unique mounts he had seen the wild Orcs ride in the western mountains were bears, not furred caterpillars. Furthermore, he insisted that his Clan had hunted in The Reach since High-King One-Eye had conquered the region and not once had they encountered such a creature.

And so, honored Lady, I believe you might have already guessed my question: Are the woolly, caterpillar-steeds of the mountain Orcs a true form of mount to the ever-savage orcs? Or, are they simply fictitious nonsense; a myth conjured up by the barbarians? (It isn't hard to imagine that Orcs, with such naturally low intelligence, could mistake a bear for this 'woolly worm'.) I can only presume that the warriors of the sands would have encountered such steeds during their sacking of Wrothgar had they been real.

I'd appreciate any insight you may have on this matter. As would a great many tavern-owners.

May Owl spread your knowledge,

Jorvald Fjord-Heart, Shaman of the Old-Ways & Keeper of Northern Legends."

< The end of the parchment is stamped with silver wax sigil in the shape of two embattled dragons >

Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq says, “Well, I don't know—I've never seen a bear, but I have seen pictures of them, and I think at a glance one might very well be mistaken for a great woolly caterpillar! Only with too few legs. And the face of a beast rather than an insect. And the distinct lack of a segmented thorax.

“All right, maybe a bear can't be easily mistaken for a giant woolly caterpillar. However, no such beast is mentioned in either De Brazy's 'Steeds of Tamriel' or Luponio's 'Mounts of the World,' so it's probably safe to regard them as mythical. (I've always found the Orcs to be more fanciful than most people think!)"

"Greetings Honnorah, I erect the spines of welcome and grace. I remember buying a horse from your grandfather...may his soul find forever joy underneath the watchful eye of Tu'whacca in the Far Shores. But let us move that matter behind us, for I came here to speak with you about a somewhat...interesting matter regarding ancient war mounts. Do you remember that talk I had with your grandpapa about my trip to the Wrothgarian Mountains for my studying of the giant bats there? Oh, of course you don't...you were practically a baby. But as I was studying these creatures, I was contacted by a strange Orc named Turok who told me that back during the First Era his people, as well as the Breton city-tribes they fought against, once domesticated the echkin and utilized them as steeds and cattle. At first I was highly suspicious and believed this tardigrade rancher was just merely swinging my tail...before I came into the possession of a famous engraving depicting the making of 'bat-cheese' from the 'long-lost giant dairy bats of Goldfolly'. I found this interesting for two things: one, the idea of bat-cheese sounds delicious; and two, in the background of the engraving you can see armored warriors riding what appears to be outfitted giant bats, and keeping guard over them. Well, I know this may seem out of your field of expertise, but your family are probably the most knowledgeable individuals in regards to Tamrielic Mount Lore that I know in the immediate vicinity. If you would care to share just a little insight into this dear, I would be very grateful." – Eis Vuur Warden, Wayward and Contract Scholar

Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq says, “Bat-cheese not only sounds delicious, it tastes that way, too! Have you ever been to Ska'vyn? In the Caverns of Wry, just north of town, the Skav bat-herds breed their own giant dairy bats, fermenting from their milk a delectable cheese that is moist, crumbly, and piquant. Quite delightful, and it pairs well with pomegranate wine! If the bat-cheese of Goldfolly was half as good, it's a shame it's no longer produced there.

“As for riding giant bats, I'm afraid that, large as they are, the creatures simply aren't up to the task of supporting a person's weight while flying. Though quite intimidating with their wings at full spread, giant bats are really quite light—bearing persons two or three times their weight is quite out of the question. But the idea of a flying mount is so appealing that it's a persistent theme in legends and tales from all cultures. However, the dream of a flying mount is really no more than that—a fantasy."

"Greetings, my good Lady. Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions from this humble battlemage. I recently visited the former location of the Aswala Stables on an official Covenant matter (a polite way of saying I was militarily deployed to aid in the forcible removal of the Dark Anchor there) and I was saddened to see what had become of the place. I wish you the best of fortune in its eventual restoration and return to its former glory.

I understand you're an expert on both contemporary and historical war mounts, and while I have a scholarly fascination with the subject at large, I must focus my questions on the available resources of the Daggerfall Covenant as a matter of practicality and duty. Thus, I'll keep my inquiries concise.

Firstly, the Yokudan Charger is legendary, and quite a powerful beast as well as a gorgeous one to behold. I must say, the horses of your people rival those from Breton song. Even the steeds of Saint Pelin and Ryain Direnni would have met their match, it seems. However, I'm curious as to the overall absence of another famous Hammerfell mount among the Covenant forces. When I visited Sentinel in my youth, there were rather more than a few camels to be seen, both as pack animals and as mounts. I've seen several tapestries in High Rock and Colovia depicting full cavalry charges on camelback. Was this ever a common war mount in Hammerfell or Yokuda, or is this the fancy of Tamrielic natives trying to understand the culture of the Raga?

Secondly, in lieu of a question about Bretonic breeds of horses (I grew up there, and trained extensively for mounted combat, as many young Breton knights and battlemages do), I'd like to hear your opinion on the origin of the Tamrielic horse. Were the Elves already utilizing them before the Nedes arrived from Atmora, or was it my Human ancestors who brought them across on longboats? Or, perhaps, did both Man and Mer bring their own strains, and if so, are modern Tamrielic horses hybridizations of Atmoran, Aldmeri and Yokudan stocks? For that matter, is there any record of the Akaviri bringing war mounts with them? I've only ever heard of their sailors and foot soldiers. Any input would be appreciated!" – Legate Cyclenophus of the Bretonic Imperial Restoration Society

Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq says, “There is nothing wrong with camels, as either mounts or pack beasts, and I have the greatest respect for them! Their recent scarcity in Sentinel just shows the power of fad and fashion. Though the Aswala, as keepers of a precious Yokudan legacy, are naturally Crowns, our family was friendly with young Prince Fahara'jad, although he and his family are Forebears, and provided him with several fine steeds in his youth. When he became king (at least of northern Hammerfell), my cousin Merric suggested that, as a gesture to the Crowns, his majesty might make a strong statement reinforcing the tradition that the most prestigious mount for a Redguard is, and always has been, a well-bred horse, and not the camels the Ra Gada found here when they arrived on these shores. King Fahara'jad took Merric's suggestion, and suddenly every rider in Sentinel had to be mounted on a horse! (This also happened to be a fortunate turn of events for Aswala Stables.) However, though horses are the finest mounts gallants can ride, they are thirsty beasts, and expensive to maintain, particularly compared to the hardier and less finicky camels. I predict that, within the year, camels will once again be seen on a regular basis in Sentinel, and throughout northern Hammerfell.

“As for the origin of our steeds, mythohistory tells us that since the dawn of time, wherever there have been humans, there have been horses. They seem to have been an integral part of our civilizations going well back into tribal times, which implies that they came from the same places we did: Tamriel, Atmora, and Yokuda. As to the Akaviri, all we know is that the folk of that continent have invaded Tamriel twice, and brought no war-mounts with them either time. Whether that's because they don't use them, or it was just prohibitively difficult to bring them across the broad eastern ocean, I cannot say."

“Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq,
Only a few among the race of Men dwelling in your land, which we shall soon be pleased to call Hegathe once more, deserve to be addressed as honoured adversaries. I count you among those few. The fame of the Aswala Stables has reached even Summerset proper, and one would look quite the fool pretending to deny the peerless virtues of the Yokudan Charger. Moreover, I cannot help but feel that, having devoted your life to breeding perfection from stock brought over from a long-lost continent, you may understand us better than most.
I should be grateful, then, to receive your expert judgement of our own methods of equine husbandry. Have you had the privilege of examining the mounts ridden by the winged Royal Altmeri Hussars in their signature charge? Further, do you think the graceful kirin has much to recommend it as a steed of war?
With respect, Battlereeve Romilcano of Alinor"

Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq says, “Again with the flying mounts? This has gone far enough. 'Winged Royal Altmeri Hussars' indeed! Next you'll try to persuade me that Dragons and Unicorns are real. I'm afraid your Elven humor is lost on this respectable Redguard matron."

“To Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq, greetings:

In regards to your invitation for queries, I submit the following: what circumstances lead to the domestication of some of the more unusual steeds? And how was it accomplished? The horse seems to be the most widespread of mounts I have seen in my travels, why do you believe this to be the case?

Kind regards, Rohais of Auridon"

Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq says, “I believe horses are so common among the human cultures because we have always shared a special bond with them. And Elves like them, of course, because they admire anything that embodies grace and elegance. But it must be admitted that horses are not the ideal mount for every climate and terrain, and so other kinds of steeds have been domesticated in various parts of Tamriel: bears in the Wrothgarian Mountains, senche-tigers in the cat-lands of the south, camels in Hammerfell, and of course the many charming breeds of guar bred by the Dark Elves in Morrowind. Still, as you say, the horse is undoubtedly Tamriel's most popular mount."

“Pleb Honnorah af-Lahreq,

I've read your pamphlet on the Legend of the Yokudan Chargers; however, I would put forward that a strong and stout Colovian bred steed can outmatch one of these sand-eating equine of your people any day! But on to my question, I see many roaming the lands atop Senche Tigers, how are these creatures tamed to a ride able state and are they not just Khajiit in another form?

Brutus Verulus, the Hound of Anvil."

Lady Honnorah af-Lahreq says, “I have been told that the senche-mounts of the Khajiit folk are not nearly as intelligent as their riders, though—confusingly for us non-Khajiit—they do share a name, in part, with two of the cat-folks' furstocks. I must also admit that the Baandari Pedlar who told me this accompanied his explanation with a broad feline wink, so perhaps the information is not entirely reliable. In order to find out for myself, I've entered into negotiations with a Riverhold stablemaster to purchase a black senche-panther mount. This is partly for professional reasons, and partly because, I must confess, I think they look quite fabulous. I can hardly wait to ride it into Tava's Blessing on market day!"

October 3, 2015

“Greetings, Architect,

I've a very important question I've needed answered for several decades. I feel some explanation is required as to the nature of my question.

Upon my arrival within Imperial City some several decades ago I found myself on the wrong end of a drunken night of "fun" perpetrated by what I can only assume were Colovians. It wasn't a span of five minutes before I was asked why I was so far from home. Black Marsh, I thought, but alas I believe they meant the sewers. At least I think they did because I very quickly found myself within them. With such large, similar rooms and total darkness I spent a week navigating the labyrinthian design of the sewer systems. I had only rats to eat for days. Not that I mind, they make for good meals. Nevertheless, I digress.

If you are in fact the designer of the systems in which I found myself lost I simply ask the following: why would you design such a monstrosity of engineering that has such large, apparently useless rooms, with so very little actual plumbing? Honestly, the Black Marsh seems to have a more efficient method of disposing of waste than those sewers do.

If you are not the designer, then I ask for your knowledge on who built such catacombs with high ceilings and so few exits.

I await your anwser.

Shocks-When-Touched
Formerly of the Arcane University's Faculty"

Mycaelis Julus says, “The short answer is that the original architects of the Imperial City sewers were the Ayleids, who left behind no records as to how it was designed and why it was laid out as it was. It is clear, however, that the system of sewers beneath the city was built for more than just drainage. It seems to have been designed to facilitate the subterranean movement of large items, as if there was something, or someone, that they Ayleids did not wish exposed to sunlight or the elements. But the full extent of the system is unknown, because over time some regions have partially collapsed, so that while the sewage still moves through, people cannot, while other areas have entirely collapsed, and have had to be bypassed or rerouted by new excavations. But as a civil architect, what I find remarkable is that, despite the ravages of time, the sewers still do their job, efficiently draining the waste and runoff of the great city overhead."

“Honorable Mycaelis,

I hope this letter finds you in some haven far from the bitter fighting that dominates the capital. In my line of work I've learned to seek out and memorize the hidden tunnels every Tamrielic city seems to hide beneath her skirts. From there I can better spy upon the wretched practitioners of the Black Art - who are often masters of cloak and dagger themselves. From there I can better strike.

My question regards the sewer network beneath the Imperial City. I know the majority of the system was constructed long ago, but what can you tell me about the original purpose behind the narrow corridors that branch from each major chamber? When I'm pursuing a mark in that winding morass, and we enter a blind tunnel only to have me crash into a spur of daedric stone or slip up on a fungal cluster - that's when I wonder at the reasoning behind all of these serpentine hallways.

I can only think that some early, prescient necromancer built this accursed network to insidiously foil attempts at bringing his future counterparts to justice.

Thank you in advance for any offered insight, and may the All-Revealer keep you in his grace.

V.E."

Mycaelis Julus says, “The labyrinthine layout of the sewer system is difficult to explain at first glance, but we must recall that it was designed to drain the capital city of the Heartland Elves, which looked very different from the Imperial City of today—bath buildings, fountain locations, entire districts have changed since Alessia's slave army ejected the Ayleids and took the city for humanity. In many places, the plumbing beneath the streets has been entirely reworked and bears no resemblance to the original construction. Some parts of the system now see very little use, while a heavy rain may cause other channels to overflow or back up. It requires constant maintenance, I assure you—a civic architect's work is never done! And now there are all these blue Daedralithic protrusions spiking in and out of the walls, in many cases blocking proper flow and drainage. Once the city is liberated, if those blue rocks don't go back where they came from, I simply have no idea how we're going to manage—certainly not on the budget we had before the crisis, which was already woefully insufficient, in my professional opinion."

“Greetings Architect Julus,

I have made many trips into the Imperial Sewers since the Alliance Captains flung open the doors, and have managed to nearly document every nook and cranny. I have a few questions that I'd like to get your ultimate opinion on . . .

Firstly, I assume you are aware of the presence of both the Barathrum Centrata area at the root of the White-Gold Tower and the Dragonfire Cathedral deep under the Imperial City. Was there a reason you decided to merge the former into your design, and hide the latter? You may want to look into the latter when the war above has finished by the way . . .

Secondly, why make the sewers traversable at all? With all manner of magic spells available, is a manual group actually required to go down there and do whatever it is they need to? This would also reduce the ridiculous amount of creatures you have down there . . . as if hoarvor weren't bad enough, there's crocodiles and skeevers! Not to mention the ungodly amount of Daedric forces . . . so I ask you, why can you not just have simple pipelines instead of 10 feet diameter tunnels? And if you know the architect of the Wayrest version, give him a piece of my mind too.

Finally, have you not even thought about the consequences of where all this waste is going to? I ran into two officers in the Shadowfen region of Black Marsh, where I was pleased to see one of them actually cared about the indigenous Argonians to actually clean up the pollution. Please alert me if you decide to do something about it.

Other than these three points, it's an excellent system. Congratulations on a remarkable feat of engineering.

Yours sincerely, Alena-Draco, Chief Paladin and Matriarch of House Draco"

Mycaelis Julus says, “Julianos' little teapot! Don't mistake me for the original designer of the sewer system—I merely do my humble best to understand it and keep it in working order despite very limited resources. You ask why the sewers are traversable at all: I assure you, about four-fifths of them are not, as they consist of narrow drainpipes that bring sewage and runoff into the larger conduits. The traversable tunnels provide access to key areas and make maintenance of the system possible. They also seem to have served the Ayleids as a system of subsurface transport, the purpose of which has been lost. As for the Wayrest sewers, it's my understanding that they were built in emulation of the Imperial City system, which accounts for any apparent similarities.

“As for what happens to the Imperial City's waste once it washes away down the Niben, well, let bygones be gone, as we say in Cyrodiil. It's not our way to worry about the detritus of the past."

The Rat whispers, “Heh. True. Forgotten detritus."

“Master Architect Julus, I trust this letter reaches you well.

I was hoping you could offer some insight into the sewer systems beneath the Imperial Palace. Obviously this section of the city substructure can be difficult to accurately map due to the underlying Ayleid architecture, but recent intelligence suggests that all three Alliance forward bases are positioned close to passages leading directly to manholes in Green Emperor Way.

Most sewer maps assert that the Barathrum Centrata drainage pit is located directly below White-Gold Tower, but scouts report nothing but 'unending legions of Daedra' in this highly-contested chamber, and zero surface access. Are the Alliance generals mistakenly pushing deeper underground in their haste to take the Ruby Throne? What is the intended function of these mysterious side passages, and where exactly do they lead in relation to the Palace District?"

– Legoless, Doyen of the United Explorers of Scholarly Pursuits

Mycaelis Julus says, “We don't actually have a definitive answer to this question, but I do have a theory: I believe that the maze of side-tunnels serves the purpose of diverting the flow of drainage into locations where it percolates slowly to lower conduits, allowing waste to settle out so that the water that eventually makes its way into Lake Rumare is relatively clean.

“And if I may stretch the metaphor, the Imperial City sewers serve as a catch-basin not only for human waste, but for the dregs of humanity, those individuals so low and degraded that they seep down into the levels below the city, removing those unfit for society into an existence appropriate to their status. These scum … hello, what? Who are you? No, don't, that looks sharp…."

The Rat says, “Heh. 'Human waste.' It's fine, the blood will wash down the drains. It always washes down the drains. Let bygones be gone."

“Mycaelis Julus,

Greetings! I am a scholar of the ancient Ayleid language. We at Gwylim are always looking for new inscriptions and artifacts to aid our understanding. Lately we have been greatly distressed by the damage the war has done to the many historical buildings of Ayleid origin that lie within the city. What's worse - we are consistently denied in our requests to study these damaged buildings before they are demolished and rebuilt by your guild. Rumor has it that far more Ayleid ruins extend beneath the city. Soon it may be that these legendary crypts are all that is left of the Imperial City's Ayleid heritage. I beg you to answer - What are the extents of the ruins beneath the city? What sort of inscriptions have you uncovered in your excavations? And for the love of Akatosh, would you please consider preserving them for proper study instead of consigning them to Oblivion for the sake of sewage!

Toh Sacchus,

Ayleid Linguist, University of Gwylim"

The Rat says, “Plenty of ruins, Sir Linguist, no worries there. Deep they go, and deeper still. Come, and I will be your guide. I will show you inscriptions. If there aren't enough, I can carve more. There's time, down here, time enough for everything. But bring supplies. Lots of supplies. We have plenty of time and inscriptions, but not enough supplies. Turkey legs are good—bring those.

“Leovic was curious, like you. He also wondered about the 'legendary crypts' under the city. Now he doesn't have to wonder."

“Architect,

I write in hope that a man of your profession may help to elucidate the truth behind some of the stories the soldiers tell while on their leaves-of-adoration here in Cloudrest. They tell the most illimitable fables, tales of the cultural practices of your people I can only assume to be the fabrications of minds traumatized by the horrors of war. For example, although it is widely known that your ravaged city suffers the effects of ghastly sanitation, I have heard it claimed that even before these troubled times the effluence of the city was allowed to drain directly into the source waters of your lake Rumare, without sedimentation, filtration, or even basic creatia-colloid clarification! Surely this must be due to the ravages of war and the hordes of Oblivion - I cannot imagine that any sentient beings would so thoughtlessly pollute their very source of hydration! Even the noisome Maormer are known to understand the rudiments of water purification!

Please, I require your reassurance in this matter. Can it really be that your people have always drawn their drink from wells of water swimming with their own excrement? Is it remotely true that the scarlet tint to the already turpid waves of your Rumare, stained by the sanguinary dribblings of your populace's infected posteriors, is in fact the native condition of this body? Are those creatures I hear spoken of as 'Rust drakes' truly transmogrified crocodilians that churn the noisome waters of their spoilage with spindly extra limbs, or is there a nobler origin behind these monstrosities? When it rains, do the sewers truly flood the streets with their overflow of repressed scatological memory, and do your people truly consider this as nothing more than healthy fertilization for their gardens?

I anxiously await your clarification in this matter, and wish you well in your doubtlessly tireless efforts to rectify the state of your city's sewerage.

Ardari Ilmion, Nonagenarian of the School of Thoughts and Calculations in Cloudrest"

The Rat says, “You talk too much. Clever words, cutting words meant to hurt, to carve new inscriptions, to injure and shame. But The Rat is not cut by words. There is no survival in words. You will learn. Come to the sewers, Nonagenarian, and bring your words. Those who live down here have survived fire and claw and fang. Try to hurt them with your many, many words, to keep them away from your soft throat. We will teach you new words, Elf. You will say them loudly, but only once."

October 30, 2015

“Greetings, Multiplier of Motions Known! I erect the spines of respect and honesty, respectively, that you may know I come to communicate with you in good faith. It wasn't easy for me to create a portal to your realm, running out of echkin fang you see, but after hearing you were accepting visitors I thought you wouldn't mind speaking to a warrior-scholar like myself over Daedric matters...especially one who used to be involved in such matters on a more personal level. I have also brought you a token, the sword of the fallen Redguard warrior Laja Saun, a follower of Hoodoc, the Yokudan God of Talks and Makes Others Listen and one of your ancient enemies, to ensure you that I hold no ill against you, m'lord. Now with all of the niceties out of the way, I have some questions I hope you would not mind answering.

For my first question, I would to know more about the procedures and hierarchy that revolves around the “ownership" of a pocket realm in the Second Void. If I recall correctly, only Daedra Lords, Demiprinces, and mortals of much prestige may possess a “permanent" personal realm of their own in the Oblivion. However, a majority of the pocket realms I have seen are actually isolated sections of what appears to be the “main realms," the domains of the Daedric Princes. Does this mean that the Princes, who by definition of their very beings are entities that crave absolute control of their spheres of influence, allow minor functionaries to have control over parts of their personal kingdoms? Or are these realms merely created by the Princes themselves for their distinguished subjects to use, but is in essence every part of their domain in all the ways that matter? This would explain how such Princes like Sanguine can have over a thousand personal realms to do as they see fit with, without governing over them themselves constantly by leaving those duties to trusted servants.“

- Eis Vuur Warden, Wayward and Contract Scholar

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “For a mortal, you make pretty good guesses, O scholar. Tutor Riparius, would you care to go into detail?"

Tutor Riparius says, “Certainly, Lord Demiprince! The catch-all term 'pocket realm' may apply to any minor plane of Oblivion, whether linked to the major plane of a Daedric Prince or not, that is, whether incorporated, semi-autonomous, or autonomous. The Princes themselves are, almost by definition, quite distinct and different from each other, each with his or her own ideas of hierarchy and allegiance. So their methods of managing their realms, sub-realms, and pocket realms vary wildly. A major Oblivion plane is an expression of its Prince's very nature, so to say that each 'craves absolute control' of his or her sphere is inexact, as a desire for 'absolute control' is not central to every Prince's nature. To use the example you chose yourself, Sanguine's Myriad Realms of Revelry is a congeries of pocket and sub-realms, within which Sanguine grants his guests considerable latitude for personal customization, as each mini-realm can be refashioned to meet the needs and desires of its visitants. It is in Sanguine's nature to indulge the natures of others, particularly their darker desires—so to Sanguine, 'absolute control' is anathema."

“Salutations, Demiprince Fa-Nuit-Hen,

I have read much about you and your Motions, which intrigue me to no end, as does your own nature. So, if you would allow this sorcerer, possessor of some degree of expertise and experience with the dealings of the Daedra, the honor of having some questions answered by your royalty, I would be very much grateful. But, in case you aren't moved by flattery, please just ignore this previous section for none is marked with true sentiment.

Firstly, from whom did you learn the Motions? Or is it you that invents them and so can multiply them according to your own imagination? And more, are the Barons your loyal subjects or are you their subject? And yet another question on the same topic, what are the Barons and where have they come from?"

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “I interrupt, to parry a diffident thrust! The answer to your question is inherent in my title: the Multiplier of Motions Known! Every martial discipline is founded upon its own set of basic moves which, once learned, form the bases of more elaborate moves. Across the planes, from mortals and immortals, I collect these 'known motions,' cross-reference and synergize them to elaborate even further—and thus the Motions Known are Multiplied! The results are incarnated in my Barons, each of which represents the ultimate expression of a martial discipline. And that's where they come from!"

“And, after reading Vivec's Lessons, that for this Mer is only rubbish written by a false demon, I come to ask how it is you can tell what is to come next? Have you come from the realm of the Tides of Fate so to know when war is to come and where one is to go to fulfill its own destiny? Do you serve Hermaeus Mora? And more, are your Moves contained within the Infinite Library and so can they be learned from one who explores the Realm of Apocrypha?"

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “Again I interrupt! The mighty Fa-Nuit-Hen, a servant of Hermaeus Mora? By no means! I am a scion of Boethiah, a sovereign demiprince, and I serve no will but my own! As for time, cause, and consequence, let's just say that the laws of the Dragon God do not apply to Oblivion. Oh, it's useful to adopt the trappings of duration when dealing with mortals, so you'll find Maelstrom quite familiar in that regard. We know how lost you feel away from the hand of Akatosh! Maelstrom is far easier to comprehend than Apocrypha—and much more generous in that we award victorious competitors with fabulous prizes!"

“And lastly, about the Moves, what exactly are they? By all evidence they seem to be fighting styles, elaborated and refined to be the most effective and beautiful to behold, but is it so? Is there a deeper meaning to them and what can they offer for a great mage such as I? And how could a superior mortal, for I am far from mere commoner or a street-rat abomination as the Dunmer "god," capture your attention so you would come to me along with your Barons to teach what you taught Vivec?

Please, do answer this letter via the same Oblivion Stream I have sent it and that I shall keep open as quickly as possible for I am a busy Sorcerer with many more pressing matters to attend to."

- Lattiaran, Sorcerer of the Mighty Aldmeri Dominion.

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “So you, Lattiaran of the Mighty Aldmeri Dominion, are superior to the Warrior-Poet of Morrowind? It may well be so, for even Vivec was once a mortal. But you must prove it! Journey to Wrothgar, to the city of Orsinium, where you'll find the portal to Maelstrom just a bit northeast from the city walls. Come to Maelstrom Arena, challenger, and show us what you're made of!"

“Greetings, honored Fa-Nuit-Hen. I am but a humble Breton Battlemage of the Daggerfall Covenant, and by no means a sword master, although swordplay was part of my education as a Battlemage. I've won a tournament or two in my day, although this Maelstrom Arena of yours seems to attract warriors of a more rare caliber in comparison. I look forward to testing my mettle against theirs and showing some of these kids why Battlemages are feared.
I am fascinated to see you in person. I must admit, I've done some digging, and you've apparently influenced Swordmasters in both Hammerfell and Morrowind. Two very different lands, with two very different dominant races, and yet some of the techniques of their respective sword masters seem to originate with you. In fact, one myth I heard from an old Dunmer sailor involved you teaching techniques to one of their living gods, Vivec. Is this story true, Grandmaster? If so, what is the significance in the symbolism of the Sword as it pertains to divinity?

I have often had a dream or vision of some deity I don't recognize. He is a tall man. Probably Nordic. He wears a coat of mail and stabs downward at a serpent he has pinned beneath his boots. Is this a vision of Shezzar? Wulfharth or Reman perhaps? Did you ever give lessons to any of these people?"

- Legate Cyclenophus of the Bretonic Imperial Restoration Society

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “Not just Hammerfell and Morrowind! I have collected the known motions of every martial discipline in Nirn, all the way back to the Prismatic Vector Dance of the Ehlnofey. But whoever I deal with, I always repay those I learn from with motions previously unknown to them. So the knowledge gets around! Sload-fencing, for example, has evolved a fascinating regimen they call 'Welcoming the Cut.' I'd tell you about it, but I'm not bartering moves at present—and as they say, 'Contiguous doesn't mean continuous.' (They do still say that, don't they?)

“As for the dreams of mortals, that's more in Riparius' portfolio than mine. Tutor? Can you assist the Legate?"

Tutor Riparius says, “I believe so. I'm no Vaermina, but I'll do what I can. Let me just sleevestroke his concept-organ … aha! Yes, I see it: a Foreshadowing Vision. You have received a sending—divine in origin, of course, and not mortal, as you mortals are subject to time and its maddening limitations. I may not reveal whence it comes, but I can say this, Tamrielan: your Interregnum will not last forever."

“For the esteemed Fa-Nuit-Fen,

Greetings esteemed one, I humbly pen this letter for your illustrious Daedric perfection in order to ascertain information on the Maelstrom Arena.

I have slain many in order to indulge in heroism as I remove cowards from the holy land which is the battlefield. I forever seek greater challenge, greater strength and greater heroism; the Maelstrom Arena is one place I must know more of – for I must overcome any and all challenges in the name of glory. I'm curious to know what I should expect from overcoming the Maelstrom Arena, if anything.

I understand that many benevolent and esteemed beings such as yourself find pleasure in rewarding the lesser mortal races for providing ample entertainment as we engage in heroic acts for glory. What can a mortal expect from the Maelstrom Arena in specific? Reputation and increased standing? Perhaps a slave or maybe even power in some shape or form? Would such power be strong alone or perhaps it would require something more, something else to be most effective when used be a heroic individual?

I give you my sincere thanks for taking the time to receive the words of a mere mortal and look forward to your response.

With great respect and admiration,

Jhael'vyll, Loyalist of Boethiah"

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “It has long been my observation that, given the option to choose between an intangible like wisdom and a tangible such as a suit of armor, a mortal will invariably select the suit of armor. Well, we heard you loud and clear on that score, so in the Maelstrom Arena look for awards of armor for both novices and veterans, as well as the latest in master weapons. In short: prime gear!

“Oh, and glory, of course—as much as you'd like! We have an unlimited supply."

“Demiprince of the Illimitable Oscillation, his Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen,

Hello! I write regarding a topic I hope is dearly near to your essence – the currents of Oblivion and their fluctuations. How does the ebb and flow of the firmament influence the manifold bubble realms of your purview? Do they ride them, like waves, or perhaps harness them for their creative and destructive potential? My studies indicate that these daedron fields both affect and are affected by the use of magicka on Nirn – does the same hold true for their interactions with aetherial streams? Are they then, ultimately, driven by the emanations of Heaven? If so, is this also the fundamental impetus underlying the actions of Daedric entities such as yourself? How does that make you feel?

Warmest vibrations,

Ardari Ilmion, Nonagenarian of the School of Thoughts and Calculations in Cloudrest"

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “Riparius?"

Tutor Riparius says, “You mortals—so good at acquiring knowledge, and so quick to learn the wrong lessons from it! Allow me to misinterpret: particles of chaotic creatia, when flowing in reaction to the exertion of will, become daedrons that, though injurious to the mortal form, can nonetheless perform work. Underutilized daedrons usually return to quiescence—but if imbued with sufficient purpose, they may escape and coalesce to form potentia vortices. These are dangerous if allowed to self-optimize into realm-rips, so it's best to damp them out early. Trying to keep ahead of it all keeps Peryite mighty busy, but nobody's really sorry for him—after all, he earned it."

“Do you demiprinces ever get jealous of prince-princes? Or do you have your own demi-demiprinces to make you feel all important?"

- Skjal the Godless

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “Tutor Riparius, could you take … oh, sorry—that was rather tactless, wasn't it?"

“Hello? Can you hear me? Yes? Good! That scroll cost me far too much to fail... I'll have to recommend that enchanter to my colleagues, or at least the ones with enough funds to throw around.
In any case, on to my query, if you would indulge me! In all my research of the various planes of Oblivion, I have come across no clarification on one particular matter of Daedric politics: What is it that makes a Prince a Prince? Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen is of course a Demiprince by virtue of parentage, or so I have it from recorded correspondence with Lyranth, and there are literally innumerable Daedric Lords, but what sets a Prince apart from the rest? Is it something inherent to their nature, or is it more of a station occupied?
There are camps among my colleagues which insist that Princes are designated in both number and nature in relation to the Wheel structure of Mundus, but this strikes me as preposterous, given the usual (and perhaps deserved) Daedric disdain for our affairs. I hope you will find it in you to shed some light on this matter for a curious mortal."

- Silbarius Stentor, College of Winterhold

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “What makes a Prince a Prince? A broad and well-defined sphere of influence that enables clarity of purpose and focused expression of will. My sphere of influence is well-defined but not particularly broad, so I am a mere demiprince—an entity of power and consequence far outstripping that of any mortal, but trivial compared to the Greater Princes. I have ambitions, of course, like every Ada, but I keep them within my sphere, lest I suffer the same fate as you-know-who."

“We greet you warmly, multiplier of motions known. I am Rotan Dres, Sospital-Major of the Triune Church, and it is my immeasurable honor to be tasked with authoring commentaries on the 36 Lessons of Vivec.

Your role in the earliest days of our Lord Vivec's life is well-known, but many of my fellow scholars are confused about the nature of the Unmixed Conflict Path, the number of which is described in your perfect bladed carriage. Is there anything you can say that might render this mystery exoteric?

As we say in House Dres, may your feet never know the weight of chains."

- Rotan Dres

Lord Fa-Nuit-Hen says, “The Unmixed Conflict Path? Now that is a great secret indeed, a mystery your Lord Vehk unraveled only after prolonged hallucination upon Premeditated Modesty. But at last he found the answer, and shared it with you all, right there at the end of the First Sermon: 'I have crushed a world with my left hand, but in my right hand is how it could have won against me. Love is under my will only.'"