In the waning years of the Third Era of Tamriel, a prisoner born on a certain day to uncertain parents was sent under guard, without explanation, to Morrowind, ignorant of the role she was to play in that nation's history ...
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
~Journal of Tsukiyo~
| ~Profile~ | ||
|---|---|---|
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Name: Tsukiyo | For release, by Emperor Uriel Septim VII's decree, to the district of Vvardenfell in the province of Morrowind. Signed, Socucius Ergalla Agent of the Seyda Neen Imperial Census and Excise. 16th of Last Seed 3E 427 |
| Race: Dark Elf | ||
| Class: Knight | ||
| Sign: The Lady | ||
A fellow prisoner by the name of Jiub aboard the ship awakened me from an especially strange nightmare. Emperor Uriel Septim has arranged for me to be released on the island of Vvardenfell in Morrowind. I'm not in chains but immediately outside the cabin we are kept in the skulls and bones of who-knows-who are not well hidden between the crates to send a less-than-subtle message. It seems preferable to not ruffle any feathers and simply go along with whatever is requested of me. A guard came to fetch me and escorted me to the deck. Once my eyes adjusted to sunlight I got my first glimpse of the island that for the time being is going to be my home. It looks like a swamp and the strange giant bug standing next to the village isn't helping matters much, although at the same time the scene looks surprisingly welcoming and comfortable.
Seyda Neen
I was guided inside a building towards a man in a robe, who looks more like a member of the clergy than employed by the Empire, named Socucius Ergalla who interrogated me to prepare my release papers. The room was rather cosy and comfortable with a warm fire glowing in the corner and various tapestries draped along the walls, and expensive limeware and history books on the shelves, but the presence of an Imperial guard in full armour next to a chest obviously marked "Evidence" makes clear that they are prepared in case visitors decide to be less than cooperative.
On my way out of the census office I found a magic ring that may or may not belong to a wood elf named Fargoth. I must remember to give it back but for the time being its healing magic could prove useful. I also discovered an enchanted axe either discarded or hidden in a tree stump near the lighthouse. My speciality is long swords but I'm skilled with axes too. It certainly beats the dagger I smuggled out.
Sellus Gravius, a Knight Errant of the Legion who is dressed and carries himself as if he's the emperor himself, commanded me to seek out a man named Caius Cosades in Balmore. My release by itself has evidently indebted me to the Empire enough that I am forced to run errands for them.
A commoner by the name of Vodunius Nuccius told me the local and very much disliked tax collector went missing. He also told me to mention his name to the operator of the silt strider, Darvame Hleran.
The High Elf Eldafire suggests I take on the smugglers in Addamasartus cave, as the guards seem to be unwilling to do anything about them. She thinks they have been bribed to look the other way.
While exploring the area surrounding Seyda Neen I found the body of Processus Vitellius between the rocks near the coastline with a tax record and 200 gold on him. I assume he is the missing tax collector. The money still being on him suggests to me he has been murdered out of a personal vendetta. The tax record has the name Draren Thiralas next to the paid amount of 200 drakes. Perhaps the person I should follow up with? His clothes are of higher quality than the rags the Empire stuck me in, and it's not like he's going to need them anymore ...
I encountered Teleri Helvi first. She suggested I return to the Census and Excise Office where I'm to find Socucius Ergalla (the man who oversaw my release), if I'm inclined to get involved with the case at all. I found Draren Thiralas too in his house at the entrance of the town. He did not sound particularly guilty or even knowing when the murder was brought up to him. My initial hunch appears to be a wrong one.
Socucius Ergalla thanked me for finding the missing man. I returned the 200 Gold I took off the man and he offered me 500 septims if I bring the culprit to justice. I could desperately use the money. I get the impression the imperial soldiers aren't well liked amongst the commoners, which may account for hostility towards the taxman who is spoken fondly of otherwise.
Indrele Rathryon mentioned Vitellius only had one friend (perhaps more than friend?) at the lighthouse, by name of Thavere.
Thavere Vedrano paints Proccessus as a gentle man who was never violent, but he did argue with Foryn Gilnith who believed Proccessus skimmed money off the top. She seems to have been in a romantic relationship with him after all. Perhaps he really was only disliked because nobody likes tax collectors, and not because of any major personal faults. A book in the lighthouse about an Orc leaving her life of crime to marry her Imperial jailer, and having to fight her previous accomplices to retrieve a wedding gift, suggests Thavere is the romantic type so it might merely be the fantasy talking. As a personal favour I'm to find what happened to his ring.
I confronted the Dunmer Gilnith in his house and he eagerly confessed to the murder of Proccessus, proclaiming it a good thing. However when I mentioned that a taxman flaunting his wealth is no excuse for murder he became hostile. I cannot entirely fault the man for his reasons, but the empire's justice has been carried out and murder avenged. I will now return the ring to Thavere. After that I will collect the bounty offered which I could desperately use, but with the understanding that the empire's presence in these parts is not looked well upon by its inhabitants. Now two men are dead.
Foryn Gilnith had A Dance in Fire, Chapter 6 in his shack.
Darvame Hleran doesn't think Vodunius Nuccius is happy in Seyda Neen. I'm not sure if I actually got a discount for the trip. I took the silt strider to Balmora as walking seemed like a dangerous endeavour as long as I'm practically unarmed and unarmoured. I learned that you do not so much ride on the silt strider as you do in them. The passenger compartments are hollowed out of the creature itself and they are driven by manipulation of its organs directly. These things are going to take time to get used to. It rained the entire trip.
Balmora
In my search for Caius Cosades I entered the first establishment I saw, the Council Club, and asked several patrons for guidance. All of them were rather unfriendly and brushed me off. This appears to be a poorly-hidden hideout for the Camonna Tong, who I should probably stay clear of. The establishment next to it, The Lucky Lockup, seems much friendlier, even though I question its choice of name. Sellus Gravius back in Seyda Neen pointed me towards the South Wall Cornerclub, which is across the river (named Odai) and transparently the headquarters of the Thieves Guild. There I was told by Bacola Closeius, the owner, that Caius Cosades rents a small place at the end of the road at the northern edge of town.
Morrowind has five Great Houses, but only three are represented on Vvardenfell. These are House Redoran, House Hlaalu, and House Telvanni.
There is a rumour that the Balmora magistrate Nolus Atrius has been bought. At Moonmoth Legion Fort there is a Champion named Larrius Varro who may or may not be interested in stopping corruption. Both to be followed up on.
Caius Cosades is an older Imperial who either is an impoverished skooma addict or pretends to be one. He Cosades inducted me into the Blades and ordered me to establish a cover identity as an adventurer while secretly working for him. He also asked me to talk to Hasphat Antabolis at the Balmora Fighter's Club to learn about the Nerevarine secret cult and the Sixth House secret cult (he will likely demand my services first). The Nerevarine is the supposed reincarnation of the Dunmer General and First Councillor, Lord Indoril Nerevar. This Nerevarine is an orphan and an outcast born on a certain day to uncertain parents and will one day unite the tribes of the Dunmer to drive out the invaders of Morrowind.
I talked to Eydis Fire-Eye and joined the Fighter's Guild. My first assignment is to take care of a rat problem here in Balmora. I need to locate the house of Drarayne Thelas on the east side of the Odai. I sold my boots to buy iron gauntlets so at least I'll have some protection.
I found Drarayne Thelas. She seems abnormally obsessed with pillows.
Thelas has the 20th Sermon of Vivec. There are evidently 36 so this seems like a significant series of books. Worth keeping my eye out for.
The rat locked in the bedroom didn't prove much of a challenge but the two upstairs had a nasty bite. I wouldn't have survived without a health potion.
Next I'm to deal with egg poachers at the Shulk Egg Mine as they interrupt a vital exporting good. Their names are Sevilo Othan and Daynila Valas, former egg miners themselves. This mine is located south of Balmora. Perhaps first I might want to return to Seyda Neen to develop my skills and armoury, and to establish myself as an adventurer.
Seyda Neen - Part 2
I arrived back in Seyda Neen early in the morning. Perhaps it's because so far Balmora has only been covered in gloom and nighttime for as long as I've been there, but the coastal town definitely is an improvement of scenery. I first sought out Vodunius Nuccius to follow up on the rumour that he's unhappy in Seyda Neen. He told me he came here to make his fortune but so far has only come into the possession of a cursed ring that makes you run faster but also drains blood. I took it off him and handed him 100 drakes so he could take the boat to Narsis.
I visited Arrille's Tradehouse to stock up on spells, including a healing spell that should be a significant improvement upon Fargoth's ring that I have kept with me. I might as well return it since it's not very powerful. I should have reversed that order because when I returned the ring, Fargoth was so pleased with me that he'd make sure Arrille would give me beter prices.
In Arrille's Tradehouse I talked to a man named Hrisskar Flat-Foot who is a member of the Imperial Legion who had bad luck playing Nine-holes and seeks to recover it by shaking down Fargoth (which accounts for how he lost his ring to the Imperial Legion in the first place). I'm to find where Fargoth hides his secret stash. I could and perhaps should have declined, but I'm hardly in the position to oppose the Empire and at least this way Fargoth's secret stash stays safe.
Elone at the tradehouse is a member of the Blades. She offered me a Guide to Vvardenfell to speed me on my way. I also learned the Nerevarine cult consists of nomadic Dunmer barbarians known as 'Ashlanders'.
This is a copy of the Guide to Vvardenfell for my personal files: 
I made my way up the lighthouse and waited for night to fall, observing the town below me for any sign of Fargoth sneaking up to his hiding place. I stood there in the pouring rain with lightning striking uncomfortably close at various times, until finally in the middle of the night Fargoth appeared. His efforts to conceal his path only made him stand out more. Finally, he reached a hollowed-out tree stump in the pond between the shacks and disappeared from sight once more. Indeed, in the stump I found 300 Gold, a lockpick, and the ring I handed to him earlier. I only took the gold.
I delivered the gold to Hrisskar and he confirmed he regularly robs Fargoth's house and sticks some of his items in the barrel of the Census and Excise courtyard for people to find as a joke. Hrisskar now calls me his friend and I absolutely hate the sound of that. I went back to the courtyard, took the remaining items out of the barrel (a mere bottle and pitcher) and delivered them to Fargoth's doorstep as they presumably belong to him.
I will depart Seyda Neen back to Balmora, and I have the choice between Pelagiad and Hla Oad. Pelagiad is an Imperial settlement while Hla Oad is a local fishing village. Since I have only seen the dark side of imperial occupation so far I think I will head into the Bitter Coast region.
I witnessed a man in a ridiculous robe and hat testing out a jumping spell he developed. I learned this as he had a journal on him describing his success. However his bragging proved hasty as he had died on impact. His name was Tarhiel and his enchanted longsword will be appreciated. I also have his remaining scrolls but I do not intend to make the wizard's mistake.
Along the road I discovered two mines by that had the names 'Zainsipilu' and 'Yasamsi' attached to them.
Hla Oad
If I thought Seyda Neen was a swamp, I was not prepared for Hla Oad. It is an uneven dirt road shaped like a horseshoe with several of the shacks built on top of the actual swamp. There is a surprising variety of races within the town that I had assumed would be overwhelmingly Dunmer. The inhabitants assume I had gotten lost to arrive here. They are nice to my face but I get the impression a wrong move in this village might end with a dagger in my back and my body at the bottom of the swamp.
An Orc named Shurkul gro-Sharga informed me of a disease called 'corpus' which distorts the flesh and mind. One should be especially careful nearby Sheogorad, Molag Amur or inside the Ghostfence. There is no known cure.
Baleni Salavel has a ship she calls the 'Harpy' and offers rides for pay to Ebonheart, Gnaar Mok, Foreign Quarter in Vivec, and Molag Mar.
Fatleg's Drop Off is the only trading post in town but it seems to be run by criminals. It turns out the Camonna Tong is a criminal organisation, and rival and enemy to the Thieves Guild who are new to the territory. Since Hla Oad is a local fishing community I can only assume this is Camonna controlled.
Underneath Fatleg's Drop Off I talked to a woman named Llemisa Marys, a thief who seems especially bitter against outlanders. She believes House Hlaalu isn't an Imperial puppet but instead controlled by Orvas Dren, the leader of the Camonna Tong. She wishes for all us outlanders to be murdered in our beds so Morrowind will rise up to what it was in ancient times. The cavern itself appears to be a Camonna Tong hideout. There's an entire suit of steel armour in a flooded area of the cavern that could be extremely useful to me. I have no personal issues with lifting these but I should probably remember not to try to sell these since there's no telling who the organisation's members are and if they recognise their own stolen goods. Perhaps the armour belonged to the corpse at the bottom of the pool.
Relam Arinith, a Dunmer within the same hideout who looks as if the rust is not limited to his armor, has requested I deliver a slave for him to Voras Helas in Balmora to settle a deal. Behind him stood a dejected female Khajiit named Rabinna. Perhaps if I agree to take her with me I can find a way to free Rabinna along the way. Voras Helas lives in the east side of Balmora.
Ah, Rabinna herself is not even the payment. She is merely the delivery mechanism for the moonsugar drug she was made to swallow, since slavery is legal but this particular drug isn't. She believes she will be killed and ripped open upon delivery to Voras Helas. She suggests I take her to the Argonian Mission in Ebonheart to help her escape. Im-Kilaya there is supposed to help free slaves and return them to their original homes.
With Rabinna in tow I went straight for the Harpy and requested a trip to Ebonheart.
Ebonheart
The seaport of Ebonheart is the Imperial headquarters on Vvardenfell and it certainly looks like it. Even the docks have the appearance of a stronghold where visitors are greeted by the statue of a dragon resting on an ebony obelisk. The town itself is named after Castle Ebonheart, ruled by Duke Vedam Dren. His younger brother, Orvas Dren, owns a plantation in the Ascadian Isles.
I met up with a fellow member of the Fighters Guild named Fainertil, who mentioned the Legions may get recalled to Cyrodiil. Emperor Uriel Septim is sick, and there was a riot over the belief that his heir, Geldall Septim, and Enman and Ebel are doppelgangers installed during Jagar Tharn's tenure.
The Argonian Mission was not terribly hard to find. I was pointed towards the inner courtyard and it was right next to the Skyrim Mission. Rabinna thanked me and Im-Kilaya paid me 400 Gold in thanks. I fear this will not be the last time I need to be here as slavery is frightfully normal to the natives of Vvardenfell. I hope removing the drugs in Rabinna's stomach won't prove overly problematic.
I decided to pay a visit to Castle Ebonheart itself. I met with a man named Relen Hlaalu, of whose House I have already caught many whispers. He himself was rather silent on the subject and directed me to Balmora to learn more. In the same hale I found Galas Drenim, of House Telvanni, and Llerar Mandas of House Redoran.
The Imperial Commission houses many books, primarily on the history of the Empire and three books of the biography of Barenziah.
I finally found Lord Vedam Dren himself. A man clad in magnificent ebony armour. He is worried about the threat of Dagoth Ur of Red Mountain but believes this common threat could ease tensions between the native Dunmer of Morrowind and the imperial occupation. Red Mountain is the volcano on the middle of the island so my travels will likely lead me there eventually. Further he told me he does not agree with everything his brother Orvas has done but would prefer if I don't become his enemy. I now realise this Orvas Dren is likely the same person who was pointed out to me as the leader of the Camonna Tong. Since he runs an organisation which has as its goal the ejection of all outsiders from Morrowind, he evidently has opposing views to his brother coordinating Imperial occupation.
With the Duke was a Dunmer named Llaalam Dredil who has requested I deliver a letter to J'Zhirr at the East Empire Company (and return with whatever I am given). A peek revealed it to be a notice of price increases. I found the Khajiit J'Zhirr in a building by the docks. He offered little explanation and only asked I return with another letter to Dredil. It is an agreement of payment for the sum of 10,000 drakes for services rendered to an "LD" (no doubt Dredil himself). His name being shortened in both letters makes me wonder regarding how above board this issue is.
I left Ebonheart in the direction of Pelagiad. Along the way I noticed a small lake and decided on a refreshing dive. At the bottom I discovered two small kollops that both had pearls. On the road to Pelagiad I discovered the entrance to Andrano Ancestral Tomb. I've also found a strange docile creature apparently known as a 'Guar'. They seem to have a very leathery hide in desperate need of moisturising.
Pelagiad
Pelagiad started out as an imperial fort intended to guard the roads between Vivec, Seyda Neen, Balmora. The guards then expanded the forts with farms and the town grew from there unlike any of the Dunmer settlements I've seen thus far. It's not that much unlike Seyda Neen except for the lack of a swamp (plenty of lakes in the area though) which makes the town look more like a mainland imperial town.
Inside the Halfway Tavern I met a Dunmer named Yakum who speaks Old Elf. He is an Ashlander — the 'People of the Wastes' — who used to be a herder living in a yurt but now yearns to become rich as the Ashlands are now plagued by soul sickness and blight storms supposedly sent in dust from Red Mountain by Dagoth Ur. The Ghostfence must not be sufficiently tight to keep everything locked in. I'm sure at some point I'll have to see this for myself.
The tavern itself appears to be a front for the Thieves Guild, which makes sense as the Camonna Tong wouldn't be very fond of settling inside an Imperial fort. I should watch my pockets carefully but at least these thieves have enough sense to make visitors feel at ease. I don't feel as if looking at someone the wrong way would immediately end with me fighting for my life. This place looks much too respectable to be a thieves' den.
| Drelasa Ramothran educated me on the local and imported brews | |
| Flin | boosts strength and willpower without unpleasant side effects |
| Cyrodiilic brandy | fortifies willpower and endurance |
| Greef | makes you feel strong but also clumsy |
| Shein | enhances endurance but impairs cognition |
| Mazte | makes you feel strong but also dumb and weak-willed |
You have ascended to Level 2
You realise that all your life you have been coasting along as if you were in a dream. Suddenly, facing the trials of the last few days, you have come alive.
A commoner named Erval elaborated on soul sickness and said he saw his neighbour walking outside in the middle of the night talking nonsense, which he doesn't remember come morning.
Inside the fort I found a book that details the five Imperial legion garrisons in Vvardenfell. These are the town garrisons at Moonmoth Legion Fort near Balmora, Buckmoth Legion Fort in Ald'ruhn, and Fort Pelagiad where I am right now. There are also the Hawkmoth Legion at Castle Ebonheart, which I have visited, and the under-strength garrison of Fort Darius in Gnisis.
There does not seem to be much in the way of trouble or work in Pelagiad, although I do think I spied a bandit's hideout to the south of the town.
On the road to Balmora I met a woman dressed in expensive clothing named Maurrie Aurmine. She had been jumped by a bandit who took off with her jewellery, but she seems to be more smitten with the bandit himself than she cares about the jewels. She asked me to find him, a Dunmer man named Nelos Onmar, for love's sake. He went in the direction of Pelagiad so I suppose I should turn around. She gave me her left glove as a token for the bandit.
I took a detour to harvest marshmerrow from the areas around the lake, as they seem to have healing properties. Unfortunately the mudcrabs noticed my presence and I ended up going through my entire supply of the plant merely to heal the wounds inflicted upon me by the damned creatures.
Of course I found Nelos in the Thieves Guild den, the Halfway Tavern. He was surprised, primarily because the woman is of noble birth and he a mere rogue, but he did indicate his remorse over the act and an interest in seeing her again. He gave me a note for her in return.
In gratitude Maurrie pointed me towards her friend Barnand Erelic in Tel Branora. She did not mention why aside from her belief the two of us would get along.
Balmora - Part 2
I stopped by Fort Moonfort to stock up on potions and sell things I don't need.
I have learned I'm going to have a hard time relying on fighting skills alone and have thus joined the Mages Guild. Learning a few magic spells sounds nice but primarily it's my knowledge of herbs and potions that could prove essential to my survival.
Ajira herself wants to advance in the Mages Guild and has requested I bring her samples of local mushrooms. Luminous Russula, Violet Coprinus, Bunglar's Bane, and Hypha Facia. This proved to be a simple task as I already had at least one of each of these. She gave me some cheap healing potions in return. Next Ajira asked my help to sabotage Galbedir's research by placing a fake soul gem in her desk, which is a rather underhanded way for her to lift herself up but at least it doesn't require theft. Next Ajira wants me to bring her samples of Gold Kanet, Stoneflower Petals, Willow Anther, and Heather. For these I really do need to do some collecting. Supposedly these can all be found on the shores of Lake Amaya, which is southeast of Balmora past Fort Moonmoth in the direction of Suran.
I took a small detour out of Balmora to investigate the poachers at the Shulk Egg Mine. I must say I'm not very fond of Kwama. The bloody worms are a nuisance everywhere I go so entering one of their nests is not my idea of a good time. I think I prefer the company of rats. The poachers were easy enough to identify as they attacked me at once when I stumbled upon their activities.
My next orders for the Fighters Guild are to head to the Caldera Mining Company to kill four Telvanni agents named Alynu Aralen, Sathasa Nerothren, Fothyna Herothran and Alveleg.
On the road to Caldera I found a corpse belonging to a man named Ernil Omoran. He carried a note and a skooma pipe apparently belonging to a certain Tsiya.
Caldera
Caldera is an Imperial town based on commerce and the nearby ebony mines. The Empire lays claim to all ebony so stealing it is a sure-way to make enemies of any nearby guards catching you in the act.
Shenk, a Redguard who runs Shenk's Shovel, told me he saw an Orc running like a madman from the guards in a comical manner.
Ghorak Manor is occupied by a party of friendly Orcs. Notably among them is a scamp named Creeper with a suspiciously large amount of money (5,000 gold) willing to buy a variety of items. He has a pair of drums with him so I suspect the Orcs have him around for entertainment. How and why a scamp decided to get involved with money is anyone's guess and I'm not willing to ask.
In Bashuk gra-Bat's house I found a note from Irgola (which is a nickname meaning "master" in goblin, after a youth of hunting the creatures in the Dragontail Mountains) the Pawnbroker that implies she will have to roughen up a man named Valvius if he doesn't pay up some sort of debt. Bashuk herself seems quiet on the matter. I located Valvius Mevurcius in his house, and found a note describing the debt. The man had ordered six crates of Cyrodilic Brandy (which I believe is commonly called 'flin') and owed 3645 gold pieces. The number of empty bottles in his house suggests a fairly severe drinking problem.
By the Nine! On my way to the Caldera Mining town I met a naked male Nord named Hlormar Wine-Sot. He claimed to have been travelling with a woman who he had a pleasant time with, only for her to cast a spell on him and rob him of everything including the clothes off his back. He is however most perturbed by the theft of his prized axe Cloudcleaver and asked me to help find the witch. She should still be camping in an area northwest (if the dazed Nord is still able to orient himself properly). I do not mind temporary companionship but I would have greatly preferred it if it was wearing pants. Or at the very least showed a degree of shame walking around with his privates out.
An Orc in the wilderness got spooked seeing me (perhaps the naked man behind me didn't help matters). He asked if I was one of the Caldera townbosses and introduced himself as Bugrol gro-Bagul. The guards believe he did something bad and seeks my help in delivering a note to Bashuk gra-Bat (the enforcer who may have to persuade Valvius to pay his debt!). He does not sound like a clever fellow. He outright confesses in the note but believe they can't know. He promised me a present when I returned.
I fell into a nest of giant rats. Unarmed, my unclothed companion proved fairly useless in a fight but he proved to be a valuable distraction while I regained my footing and unsheathed my sword.
By nightfall a female healer I encountered on the road immediately recognised the Nord with me. Her name is Sosia Caristiana and she clarified that Hlormar's story was woefully lacking in perspective. She had indeed walked with him as having a Nord for a protector isn't the worst idea, but he got too friendly with her and so she decided to teach him a lesson. The taking of Cloudcleaver was so that he wouldn't be able to exact retribution. She says he can have everything back in three days at the Mage's Guild Hall in Caldera if he calms down.
The hotheaded fool refused Sosia's offer and attacked me when I refused to aid him retrieve the axe by force. He managed to pummel me good before I overpowered him but he met his undignified end in the wildernis after all. Sosia wished it had gone differently too but agreed that it was all his fault.
Bashuk was annoyed that Bugrol got himself in trouble. He is better at hiding, she is smarter. Unfortunately for all her smarts she once again confirmed that they were up to no good in the note she gave me in return and then challenged me to find Bugrol again (even though I already did). Bugrol gave me his present, a useless rock, which he mocked me for. The rock turned out to be a diamond. I don't know how Caldera can survive these criminal masterminds.
A woman named Aeta Wave-Breaker asked me for help. A group of thieves led by a Khajiit named Dro'zhirr robbed her of her jewelry, including two family heirlooms. Their hideout is supposedly east of Caldera, although none of the local authorities have been able to find them. It seemed likely to me that a group of thieves might find an easy time hiding in the nearby Indalen Ancestral Tomb. Unfortunately when I made my way there I was visciously attacked by a pair of Kagouti, a creature I do not care for.
I thought myself very clever when I found the tomb occupied by a pair of Scamps. It must be occupied! Unfortunately no, it soon became clear there were none other alive and I was alone among the bones and ghosts of the people buried there. I swear I could hear their voices.
At the mining town I met a pleasant Wood Elf named Alveleg, one named as one of the Telvanni agents. He must be operating as some kind of lookout for his comrades down in the mines. When I asked about the Telvanni agents he became hostile, tried to gain some distance from me and starting raining arrows upon me.
Once I've dealt with him I entered the mine and found the three others. They proved to be quite a challenge to take on at the same time, especially since one of them suddenly summoned an animated skeleton to fight for her. If I hadn't thought about the effect flin has on one's strength I would have certainly been done for. Even a quick chug of the stuff gave me enough of a boost to overcome this challenge. All four of them soon ended up dead.
I slept in the wildernis and was attacked by an assassin wearing Dark Brotherhood armour. He carried a strange ebony dart on his person.
You have ascended to Level 3
You realise that you are catching on to the secret of success. It's just a matter of concentration.
Balmora - Part 3
Back in Balmora, Eydis Fire-Eye wants me to retrieve a code book which is currently in the hands of Sottilde at the South Wall. She was oddly hostile about it being my duty in having to retrieve it. 'I say jump, you say "how high"' and such. I'd much prefer to tangle with the Thieves Guild than the Camonna Tong as I think I could resolve this in a friendly manner. When asked, Sottilde pretended she didn't know about any book. In exchange for 100 Gold she was much more talkative. She handed it right over since she didn't want any trouble with me. It seems rather strange for the Fighter's Guild to send me to recover a book from one of the other guilds. There seems to be more to this.
Eydis Fire-Eye next wants me to go to Suran and find Helviane Desele who runs a cornerclub there. She owes 200 septims to Manos Othreleth. I understand them sending me after thieving gangs occupying Imperial mines, but I'm starting to have questions about these orders. Perhaps I should dig into this Manos Othreleth.
Tyermaillin who lives in the same area as Caius Cosades in Balmora is also a member of the Blades who barters potions and ingredients. I am also free to sleep in his bed. I also discovered Tsiya's house on the opposite side of the river but all the doors seem to be locked. Edd "Fast Eddie" Theman called himself the rising star of House Telvanni until his career was halted by a Dratha and Gothren. He did not seem to take a liking to me but I believe his name is going to come up again sometime sooner or later.
I told a Hlaalu Guard about the attack while I slept. He said it sounds like the work of the Dark Brotherhood and that I should speak to Apelles Matius in Ebonheart. He suggested I either find help or write a will.
I could have spent the night occupying a bunk bed at the Fighter's Guild, but instead I decided on something more luxurious and private and I went over to the Eight Plates to rent a bed instead. 10 Gold was not an unreasonable price. I overheard some rumours that House Redoran is in trouble since Hlaalu has better trade options due to ebony (likely the Empire connection) and Telvanni is doing better when it comes to land. Bolvyn Venim is sleeping with Fathasa Llethri, with Garisa not intervening, and a Redoran in Vivec did not show up for a duel.
At dawn I made my way to Lake Amaya to collect the flowers for Ajira. I placed my armour on a rock next to the lake so I could swim easier and dive for pearls while I'm there. Some floating debris made me look under the water, and I discovered a sunken ship within the lake. Unfortunately it was yet too deep for me to reach without drowning myself. I also had to be careful of the slaughterfish that swarmed me. The sword I carried in my belt proved essential but the small agile fish managed to evade me for some time as they managed to take quick bites. There was a bandit-occupied cave near the lake called Panat.
Ajira asked me to find a ceramic bowl. Ra'Virr the trader is supposed to have some. This was easy enough. Ajira gave me 10 Gold but Ra'Virr sold me a bowl for 2. I'll be rich in no time. However when I got back to Ajira she barely even acknowledged that I had one since her reports had been stolen. Supposedly Galbedir has them and she has not left the Mages Guild, so they should still be here.
Galbedir outright admitted that she stole the reports and she was quite proud of it, as somehow it proved that the Bosmer are even better thieves than the Khajiit. She also acknowledged that it was I who collected the ingredients for Ajira so Ajira will never find the reports by herself, while stating she hid the first one under a dresser in the bedrooms and the second among the sacks of ingredients. Why wouldn't she assume I would simply get them back?
Indeed, they were quite easy to recover. I read the reports myself before returning them. Ajira may be claiming credit for my deeds but at least her hints for making potions are quite valuable. Especially the suggestion that Luminous Russula combined with pearl dusts make a potion for breathing underwater. Perhaps I could use this to explore the sunken ship I saw earlier.
I decided to take up Ajira's suggestion to look work work in the Ald'ruhn Mages Guild. On my way out of town I decided to drop by the Temple and was talked into joining. They have a book called The Pilgrim's Path that I was eager to get my hands on. I don't know, perhaps I'll drop by some of the shrines if they are on my path.
In Caldera I spent the night at Shenk's Hovel. Before sleeping I had a quick look through the Temple's book to see if any of the shrines I needed to visit were on my way. Most (if not all) of them seem to be southwards instead.
On the road I met a woman named Pemenie who was walking very funny, as if she were walking regularly but at running speed. She needed an escort to Gnaar Mok and in return she would give me her Boots of Blinding Speed (which accounts for the walk, I suppose). Reaching Gnaar Mok required a ton of guesswork as I did not actually know the way, so I followed the road until we came upon a sign. On the way I discovered a dead Guar who appears to have been killed by nearby Mudcrabs. When we were nearing the village, Pemenie gave me the boots. It was then that I discovered "Blinding Speed" was quite literal. The boots increase the wearer's running speed but also renders them blind.
In Gnaar Mok I was told they are having issues with breeding netch. Also I was told Pemenie had a bounty on her head for selling shoddy goods. Evidently I had been escorting a criminal. No wonder she didn't really speak much. She herself thought the notion was preposterous. I should ask around.
Gnaar Mok appears to have heavy Camonna Tong influence as well. They hang out at Nadene Rotheran's place. Nobody clarified the bounty on Pemenie's head and there didn't seem to be much work in Gnaar Mok anyway so I resumed my way to Ald-ruhn.
On the way I found Rasha, who has a shipment of shirts that need to be delivered to Bivale Teneran under the big shell in Ald-ruhn. He made me swear an oat to Zenithar that I would do so. One of the shirts I'm too deliver was one he was wearing.
Another naked Nord! His name is Hisin Deep-Raed and he claims a witch rooted him to the spot while he was her escort and is now furious for violence. I promised I would help him by finding a potion that can undo his curse, but his promise to cleave the "whore" in twain does not fill me with confidence. I'm in the mind to keep him standing there for a while so his desire for freedom outweighs that for revenge.
Further on the way I discovered a man named Drerel Indaren who was attacked, together with his wife, by a pack of wild nix hounds. They got separated as she played dead and he ran off in an attempt to draw them away. He asked me for help in taking them down to save his wife.
I was injured myself and lacking in healing potions, but I felt confident enough in fighting mere nix hounds that I persisted anyway. Indeed, the two hounds were easily overcome and we found Indaren's wife Falanu a little bit further. He was sorry the only thing he had to offer was a copy of A Dance in Fire, Chapter 2. Evidently he was unaware that books are some of my favourite objects to receive.
Ald-ruhn
I almost had to crawl to Ald-ruhn in my current state and barely made it when I witnessed the sign for the local Fighters Guild establishment. I introduced myself there and was shown a bed I would gratefully occupy. Alas, I was barely asleep when another Dark Brotherhood member sprung me, somehow in the heart of the Fighters Guild! I managed to overcome him with great effort.
I met with Percius Mercius who had more orders for me. I'm to go to Vas and meet with the Buoyant Armiger Ulyne Henim to help her clear the Necromancers out of Vas in the Sheogorad Region. I can get there by taking a ship to Dagon Fel from Tel Mora. I also discussed my doubts about some of the orders I have been given from Eydis Fire-Eye. He confirms that Manos Othreleth works for Orvas Dren of the Camonna Tong and thus the contract may not be legitimate.
You have ascended to Level 4
It's all suddenly obvious to you. You just have to concentrate. All the energy and time you've wasted — it's a sin. But without the experience you've gained, taking risks, taking responsibility for failure, how could you have understood?
Rasha mentioning a "big shell" was right. The main building in Ald-ruhn was carved out of the shell of the Emperor crab which they title "Skar". I found Bivale Teneran's shop there. She praised his work and offered me a Belt of Iron Will. She also gave me work herself. She sold a brocade shirt and silk pants to Ienas Sarandas but gave her only half-payment and was supposed to pay the rest later but has refused to do so in weeks.
I'm supposed to find him and get either the 360 drakes owed or the shirt and pants back. I'm given little direction as to where to find the man, except I've been told his parents died recently and he's been taken to gambling and drinking recently. Sudden wealth has made him an irresponsible fool.
I talked to a trader named Tiras Sadus who also mentioned he sold Ienas Sarandas a belt but was still owed 50 septims. I'm also supposed to either return the belt or the money. Daynes Redothril similar deal. Two fine matched rings with 150 drakes owed. Llether Vari, designer shoes bearing the Light enchantment (which I'm told is both practical as well as ornamental) and 120 drakes owed. Bevene Releth, a firejade amulet, 50 drakes.
The bookseller did not in fact have money owed by Sarandas, however I did spend an embarrassing amount of the money I made from selling the Dark Brotherhood's assassin's armour on books. These were ABCs for Barbarians, Ashland Hymns, Confessions of a Skooma-Eater, Five Songs of King Wulfharth, Frontier, Conquest ..., Guides to Ald'ruhn and Vivec, Mysterious Akavir, Saryoni's Sermons, The Red Book of Riddles, The Ruins of Kemel-Ze, The True Nature of Orcs, Vampires of Vvardenfell v1, Words of Clan Mother Ahnissi and Words of the Wind. I look forward to reading some of these on a warm day by the lake.
I searched for Ienas Sarandas by going through all the local taverns and pubs, but found no sign of him there. It turned out the man was simply inside his own house. He told me to hear him out when I confronted about his overdue payments. He explained how he had forgotten the Grace of Generosity as put down by Lord Vivec. '...Nor encumber myself with profitless treasures, but shall share freely among house and hearth.' He returned all the items and instructed me to deliver them back to the merchants. He is also going to sell his house to the Temple and then enter the Temple himself. The merchants in turn were glad with how I handled the situation and compensated me for my time.
I met a man with quite a stutter called Louis Beauchamp. He claimed to have built an airship scavenged from Dwemer parts and levitation spells, and hired a crew (which he initially called a gang) to locate Hrothmund's Barrow in Solstheim in search of The Amulet of Infectious Charm and return it to him. According to legend, Horthmund (I do not know which version of his name is correct, he said it differently) was ugly as a troll but the magic trinket made him irresistible. The crew however has yet to report back. Louis speculates that they found the amulet and kept it for themselves so they could meet women. I agreed to keep my eye open for it, although I fear Solstheim is too harsh of an environment for my current condition so it will likely take a good while to report back. When I stand in front of the Barrow, I'm supposed to say "Ondjage". If I answer wrong, the barrow will seal forever.
Edwinna Elbert from the Mages Guild asks me to look out for a copy of the rare Dwarven book Chronicles of Nchuleft. I'm given 250 Gold in advance for it. I also picked up a potion of Cure Common Disease for the Nord that was stuck up on that mountain.
On the way back to Hisin, I met a woman named Viatrix Petilia who required an escort to the Ghostgate Shrine. Perhaps this is the same "witch" he was supposed to escort. She was in a hurry as she only has two days left. She was also very unfriendly. The walk to the Ghostshrine wasn't terribly long but it sure felt like it. At several points I would have preferred to leave her to face the Cliff Racers by herself. The Ghostgate was impressive and that made me worry what I would find on the other side. Only a few steps on the other side and we were attacked by a man who appeared to be a walking corpse. Luckily he also fought like one. The shrine Viatrix wanted to visit was one also mentioned in The Pilgrim's Path as one of my destinations, suggested to leave it as the last since they are in dangerous territory. I suppose it will instead be my first. I had a twinge of doubt leaving Viatrix there but she seemed happy and I wasn't, so I left to resume my way to Hisin blessed by the shrine.
I freed Hisin Deep-Raed with a potion of Cure Common Disease. He was thankful but swore he would kill that witch. I hope she is far away from here by now (unless of course it was Viatrix).
You have ascended to Level 5
Everything you do is just a bit easier, more instinctive, more satisfying. it is a though you had suddenly developed keen senses and instincts.
Bitter Coast Region
In Balmora I was informed that Larrius Varro at Moonmoth was specifically asking for me. I went to see him. He told me a strange story to poorly disguise that he wants me to murder five members of the Camonna Tong (a scout, a pawnbroker, a savant, a thief, and a smith) though he doesn't know their names. I suspect these are all to be found at the Council Club in Balmora, though it would be bad form to clean out the entire pub (not to mention it is much more likely I will not be the one to make it out alive). He also warned me about a bandit robbing travellers near Hla Oad. Perhaps the bandit takes precedence. I can probably deal with a single enemy rather than five at once.
I found an apparent Unexplored Shipwreck near the ocean in the Bitter Coast Region. I took a dive and explored the wreck. It had a cargo of Moon Sugar, several Ash Statues, plus a small chest near a skeleton that contained 3 diamonds. A chest that had drifted off contained a silver longsword. That should be worth something. Having to deal with hostile wildlife is making me feel more confident in my combat abilities, although way too often I'm still forced to strategically make my exit from the situation.
Near Hla Oad I encountered a man who thought I'd be much safer if I handed him 100 septims. His name was Fjol and he became murderous when I refused. This was clearly the man Larrius Varro warned me about. He fought as hard as I expect from a Nord and he certainly managed to get me good a few times, but in the end I came out on top, and he won't be robbing anyone else ever again.
You have ascended to Level 6
You sense yourself more aware, more open to new ideas. You've learned a lot about Morrowind. It's hard to believe how ignorant you were — but now you have so much more to learn.
Dorisa Darvel had a copy of Chronicles of Nchuleft that I should deliver to Edwinna Elbert. When I did so Edwinna said she now wants me to get a Detect Creatures Potion from Skink-in-Tree's-Shade at Wolverine Hall in Sadrith Mora who is long overdue.
I went into the Council Club for some small talk, particularly inquisitive about the trades of the people there. Unsurprisingly these line up with the information Larrius Varro provided. These are almost surely the 'bad people' he wants me to kill. I was not especially comfortable there and my presence itself had mixed reactions.
| 'Bad people' | |
|---|---|
| Scout | Vadusa Sathryon |
| Pawnbroker | Marasa Aren |
| Savant | Sovor Trandel |
| Thief | Madrale Thirith |
| Smith | Thanelen Velas |
I can't say I approve of Varro dancing around the subject instead of simply ordering the hit directly, and I would likely end up on directly on the enemies list of the Camonna Tong, but everything I have learned about them leads me to believe that a few less members would be a benefit to Vvardenfell.I went over to the South Wall Cornerclub to consult the Thieves Guild. Sottilde confirmed what I already suspected. These are indeed the people I am looking for. That leaves the "how". There's five of them in a small space, including the publican who I don't intend to harm if there is no need.
You have ascended to Level 7
You resolve to continue pushing yourself. Perhaps there's more to you than you thought.
My strategy for dealing with the Council Club is to try to get them to attack me first. It is perhaps rather underhanded but at least the authorities won't be on my back if my only crime is defending myself. I must practice effective taunting, and perhaps also prepare myself to be attacked by several of these criminals at once.
However I'm not ready right now and need some more training. First I decided to go to the Mages Guild for some training in alchemy and enchanting. I think these skills could come in handy at some point if I'm to survive for extended periods in the wilderness (or at least I hope so, otherwise the lessons were just me throwing my money away).
You have ascended to Level 8
The secret does seem to be hard work, yes, but it's also a kind of blind passion, an inspiration.
Next I decided to do some training in the wild and headed for the Bitter Coast Region surrounding Hla Oad again. I discovered a ship to the south with some barbarians who weren't very talkative but also not entirely unfriendly. Nearby I spotted Heran Ancestral Tomb, which was infested with scamps and a lizard-like creature known as a Clannfear. They appear to be Daedra as evidenced by their hearts.
Southwest of Moonmoth I found a cave called Hassour. Inside there was a creepy red glow and enemies too frightening for me to stick around to examine them. I ran almost immediately. I returned to the Balmora Fighter's Guild for a quick nap.
You have ascended to Level 9
Everything you do is just a bit easier, more instinctive, more satisfying. It is as though you had suddenly developed keen senses and instincts.
Perhaps I should expand my territory and head for Suran to pursue this supposed debt Eydis wanted me to collect. I headed for the silt strider.
Suran
Immediately on my left I entered the shop of an outfitter named Ranosa Gilvayn. The woman behind the counter greeted me and immediately assumed I was there for directions. Perhaps the town of Suran would have done better to place a tourism stand immediately off the Silt Strider as this woman seems to assume it to be the main reason outlanders enter her shop. She was also dressed in armour so perhaps she expects and is prepared for violence. I asked about Helviana Desele. She informed me she's the publican of Desele's House of Earthly Delights. Some kind of hedonistic establishment, I assume? I thanked the woman, felt rather bad about not purchasing anything, and left.
I did not have to go far. Across the small street, lit by candles enclosed in red paper to give the door a crimson glow, I saw the sign of Desele's House of Earthly Delights. I couldn't possibly have missed it yet somehow I did. I opened the door a bit too rashly and wish I hadn't. A topless woman stood behind the counter, next to her an equally topless Khajiit with a slave bracer. In shock I tried to avert my eyes, and averted them towards the sight of several dancing girls who were far less clothed than topless surrounded by a crowd of leering men holding bottles I'm sure were filled with Skooma. I had carelessly walked into a strip club. Worse, I was expected to do business in a strip club.
Helviane Desele welcomed me but noticeably soured when I blurted out I was there for debt money. From what I could gather Orvas Dren appears to run a protection racket which somehow involves the Fighter's Guild. Desele refuses to pay any further. I decided not to press it. Yes, I joined the Fighter's Guild primarily to improve my own craft rather than any truly noble goal, but shaking down businesses for a criminal gang is certainly not what I signed up for.
A drunk named Daric Bielle has trouble with slaves. He's looking for one named Haj-Ei and recruited an Argonian named Hides His Eyes to show him around. He offered me half the reward money if I can find the slave for him, dead or alive. I accepted the proposal knowing that in the end I will likely end up attempting to lead Haj-Ei to freedom instead. Bielle ordered more drinks. Desele suggested I check with Dranas Sarthram, slave trader. Quite the dilemma, do I prefer to hang around a bunch of dancing naked women surrounded by leering men, or at the local slave market?
I found Hides His Eyes in the Tradehouse surrounded by Skooma and Moon Sugar. He didn't seem particularly suspicious to me but the other people in the Tradehouse thought there was something suspicious about him. Perhaps he purposely hid Haj-Ei (or he is him in disguise, who knows).
I had entered Suran by silt strider so I had not noticed that the actual entrance to the town is home to Dranas Sarathram, the slave trader. I think I preferred the strip club. At least the people there weren't locked up. Sarathram had the air of a noble and seemed friendly enough. He had heard of Daric Bielle and his troubles with his slave, but it wasn't any of his business since the slave never belonged to him. He did mention that "Hides His Eyes" is not a real Argonian name but a translation. His actual name would be Hajeekius, Hajesheeus or perhaps even Haj-Ei. So Hides His Eyes seems to have been playing a trick on Bielle.
I confronted Hides His Eyes, and promised him that I will keep his secret.
I took the long road back to Balmora on the road next to the lakes. I found a man named Edras Oril hiding in the bushes. He said he was separated from his friend Thoronor when he was attacked by a pack of wild kagouti. I took care of the beasts (they have a ferocious bite). Thoronor was so glad to see his friend alive that he gave me his Amulet of Slowfalling in gratitude.
The Shrine of Humility in the Fields of Kummu blesses its pilgrim with a heavy feather enchantment. I must remember this for it will be exceedingly useful.
In Balmora I went to report to Eydis Fire-Eye. I paid Desele's debt out of pocket. Long term I would probably have to deal with the Camonna Tong to keep them off Desele's shapely back. Next I've been given a bounty contract for a female Orc named Dura gra-Bol here in Balmora. Since my suspicions about the previous contract had been confirmed, I should consult with Percius Mercius in Ald-ruhn.
I took the silt strider. Percius Mercius confirmed that Dura gra-Bol really is wanted for murder. So when I got back to Balmora I took care of the contract. Now that her house is unoccupied perhaps I'll take it as my own.
You have ascended to Level 10
You woke today with a new sense of purpose. You're no longer afraid of failure. Failure is just an opportunity to learn something new.
I finally felt confident enough to take on the Camonna Tong members inside the Council Club. I geared up in my strongest armour (and heaviest, hence why I'm not wearing it all the time) and imbibed some Flin to make me feel stronger. Unfortunately I ran out of healing potions so this could have all gone wrong very fast. I entered the Council Club. I managed to taunt all the 'bad people' into attacking me first so there wouldn't be any issues with the local enforcers (this seems like a gross oversight on Vvardenfell law). I managed to dodge enough of their blows to make it through in one piece. Luckily the publican didn't join in into the fight so he remains alive. He will have to clean this mess up though. Sovor Trandel carried on his person a key to Nerano Manor. Larrius Varro was impressed I fixed his issue without any legal problems. He gifted me with a Ring of Surroundings (which grants the Chameleon skill) and a Biography of the Wolf Queen, which I like.
Arkngthand
It's about time I get involved with the quest Caius Cosades has tasked me with. I met up with Hasphat Antabolis in the basement of the Fighter's Guild. In return for the information Caius requested, Hasphat asked me to find a Dwemer Puzzle Box inside Arkngthand.
The place was not very difficult to find. On the road above Fort Moonmoth towered the ruins of the Dwemer city. I ascended the slopes and came across a rusted iron bridge. Evidently I disturbed some sort of criminal enterprise as I was immediately attacked by an elderly Imperial who seemed to be a lookout. He attacked me with magic spells although they were easy to dodge. I found the doors required a very strange mechanism to open. I had to turn a crank which caused cylindrical doors to rotate, and I had to quickly make it through before they closed once more.
Inside the ancient city I found more people willing to pull their swords on me. Luckily I was skilled enough to survive their onslaughts, although just barely. The lower levels still have Dwemer technology actively keeping out intruders. I don't feel confident taking these on yet so I hope the puzzle box is not in there.
I searched the complex but there was no sign of the Dwemer Puzzle Box. Then when I returned to the entrance of the cave I discovered I could use fallen rocks to ascend to a second floor I had hitherto not noticed. There I found it, along with another angry bandit who appeared to be the leader of this particular crew.
Hasphat Antabolis gave me the notes for Caius and explained some things about the Sixth House. It is supposedly the lost house of Dagoth, which betrayed the Great Houses during the War of the First Council during the First Age. He did not tell me much I didn't yet know about the Nerevarine (Nerevar reborn who will unite the Dunmer against outlanders). Sharn gra-Muzgob should be able to tell me things I do not yet know. He also recommended me a series of books on the Sixth House: 'The War Of The First Council', 'Saint Nerevar', 'Nerevar Moon-And-Star', and 'The Real Nerevar'. Dorisa Darvel in the Commercial District should have some of these.
The Following are notes prepared by Hasphat Antabolis for Caius Cosades.
Sixth House
House Dagoth is an extinct Great House. In the wake of the ancient Battle of Red Mountain, its leadership was revealed to have plotted treason, and was discredited. Many of House Dagoth died defending the House; those survivors who were faithful to the Great Council were redistributed among the other houses. The Temple says the ancient, legendary evil beings that dwell beneath Red Mountain in the Dagoth Ur region are the original leaders of this extinct house, sustained by some powerful, evil sorceries.
Caius Cosades took Hasphat's notes and indeed suggested I talk to the Orc Sharn gra-Muzgob at the Balmora's Mages Guild.
| Notes and citations | ||
| Last updated : 27/07/2025 | ||
| Screenshots, quotes, terms and names taken from The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (2002) (Steam) (GOG) owned by Bethesda Softworks. | ||
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