Elder Scrolls Oblivion: Dark Brotherhood Guide
What's up, fellow adventurers and aspiring assassins! Today, we're diving deep into the shadowy world of the Dark Brotherhood in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. If you've ever wanted to wield a blade in the dead of night, strike fear into the hearts of your enemies, and perhaps even join the most infamous assassin's guild in Tamriel, then you've come to the right place. We're going to cover everything you need to know, from how to join this sinister organization to the epic quests that await you, and of course, the sweet rewards you'll get for your… discreet services. So, grab your daggers, put on your stealthiest boots, and let's get this dark party started!
Joining the Ranks: Becoming a Listener
So, you wanna join the Dark Brotherhood, huh guys? It's not as simple as walking up to a guild hall and signing your name. Oh no, this is the Dark Brotherhood we're talking about! To join the Dark Brotherhood, you first need to have committed a murder. Yeah, you heard me right! No, don't go out and randomly slaughter villagers – that's not how the Brotherhood operates. The game has a specific way of triggering your entry. You need to have committed any murder, and then you can get some rest. Seriously, just find a safe place to sleep after your little transgression. During your slumber, you'll experience a rather unsettling dream involving a mysterious cloaked figure and a rather grim ritual. Pay attention, because this dream is your ticket in. After this dream sequence, you'll wake up to find a Black Sacrament invitation – a little token that signifies you've been noticed by the Brotherhood. Follow the instructions on the invitation, which usually involves heading to Cheydinhal. Once you arrive, you'll be approached by an Argonian named Bahst and then ushered into an audience with Arquen. This is your chance to prove you have what it takes to be an assassin. She'll give you a little test, and if you pass, congratulations! You're on your way to becoming a Listener, the lowest rank in the guild. Remember, this is just the beginning of your journey into the dark arts. The path ahead is filled with intrigue, danger, and a whole lot of assassinations. Don't mess it up!
The Early Missions: Your First Steps into Murder
Alright, so you've joined the Brotherhood, and now you're probably wondering what's next. Your first missions in the Dark Brotherhood are all about proving your worth and learning the ropes. These early quests are designed to test your skills in stealth, combat, and maybe even a little bit of persuasion (or intimidation, as the case may be). You'll start off with relatively simple contracts, often involving eliminating a single target. These might seem straightforward, but don't underestimate them. The Brotherhood wants to see if you can follow orders, complete the job efficiently, and, most importantly, keep your mouth shut. You'll be dispatched to various locations across Cyrodiil, sometimes in well-guarded fortresses, other times in more secluded, private residences. Each contract will have its own set of objectives and sometimes even specific conditions for completion. For example, you might be asked to make a kill look like an accident, or perhaps ensure that a certain item is retrieved from the victim. These early tasks are crucial for your progression within the guild. Successfully completing them will earn you gold, reputation, and advance you in rank. You'll start to learn the Brotherhood's secret handshake (well, not really, but you get the idea) and become familiar with the key players within the Cheydinhal Sanctuary. Pay close attention to the dialogue and any notes you receive; they often contain vital clues and lore about the Brotherhood's history and internal politics. These missions are your stepping stones, guys. Nail them, and you'll be climbing the ranks in no time, ready for bigger and more dangerous contracts. So, keep your wits about you, your blade sharp, and your conscience… well, that’s optional.
The Listener's Path: Climbing the Ranks
As you continue your journey through the Dark Brotherhood ranks, you'll find yourself undertaking increasingly challenging and morally ambiguous tasks. The Brotherhood operates on a system of honor and respect, earned through successful contracts and unwavering loyalty. You'll start as a Speaker, and with each successful contract, you'll rise through the ranks: Acolyte, Apprentice, Journeyman, Expert, Adept, Assassin, and finally, Shadowscale. Each promotion comes with new privileges, responsibilities, and, of course, better gear and rewards. The quests themselves become more elaborate. You might be asked to infiltrate heavily guarded castles, assassinate political figures, or even delve into ancient ruins to eliminate targets who have crossed the Brotherhood. The narrative deepens too. You'll learn more about the cult's history, its connection to Sithis, the Dread Father, and the Night Mother. You'll encounter unique characters within the guild, some friendly, some not so much, and you'll even have opportunities to influence certain events within the Brotherhood itself. A key aspect of climbing the ranks is maintaining your performance. The Brotherhood doesn't tolerate failure. Missing a contract or failing to meet the objectives can have dire consequences. However, for those who excel, the rewards are substantial. You'll gain access to powerful magic, unique weapons, and the respect (or fear) of your fellow assassins. Don't forget to check your journal regularly, as new contracts will appear as you complete the old ones. The path of a Listener is not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace the darkness, the rewards are unparalleled. Keep pushing, keep assassinating, and soon you'll be a respected member of the Brotherhood, feared throughout Cyrodiil.
The Cicero Dilemma: A Quest for Loyalty
One of the most memorable and pivotal storylines within the Dark Brotherhood questline involves Cicero and the Dark Brotherhood. Cicero, as many of you know, is the Keeper of the Night Mom's coffin and a jester who has served the Brotherhood for centuries. He's eccentric, bordering on unhinged, but he's also fiercely loyal to the Night Mother and the traditions of the guild. His role becomes particularly significant when the Brotherhood faces a major internal crisis. Without giving away too many spoilers, there comes a point where you, as a rising star in the guild, will be faced with a difficult decision regarding Cicero's fate. This questline is a test of your loyalty, your understanding of the Brotherhood's values, and your willingness to make tough choices. You'll find yourself caught between preserving the ancient ways and adapting to new, potentially dangerous circumstances. Cicero himself is a complex character. His sanity is questionable, but his dedication to the Night Mother is undeniable. Your interactions with him, and the choices you make concerning him, will have a significant impact on the future of the Dark Brotherhood in Cyrodiil. This particular arc is often cited by players as one of the most engaging and emotionally resonant parts of the entire Oblivion experience. It forces you to confront the darker aspects of the guild and consider what truly matters: tradition, survival, or personal conviction. So, when you get to this point, guys, think carefully. Cicero's fate, and perhaps the fate of the entire Brotherhood, might just rest in your hands.
The Black Sacrament Ritual: A Dark Calling
The Black Sacrament ritual is the mystical key that unlocks the gates of the Dark Brotherhood for unsuspecting individuals across Tamriel. It's not a ritual you stumble upon accidentally; it's a deliberate act performed by those who wish to join the Brotherhood or, more commonly, by those who wish to hire the Brotherhood's services. The ritual itself is shrouded in mystery and dark magic. Players typically learn about it through rumors, overheard conversations, or explicit instructions within the game. To perform the ritual, you need to find a ritual bowl and a dagger, and then chant a specific incantation – the Black Sacrament prayer – while kneeling. The words spoken are a plea to Sithis, the Dread Father, asking him to send forth his children, the assassins of the Dark Brotherhood, to enact vengeance or fulfill a contract. The effectiveness of the ritual lies in its connection to the Night Mother, the spiritual leader of the Brotherhood, who hears the prayers whispered in the dark. When the ritual is successfully performed and a contract is placed, the Night Mother dispatches her Listeners to find the individual who performed the rite. For players looking to join the guild, performing the Black Sacrament is the trigger for the initial invitation and the dream sequence that leads them to their first contact. For those seeking to hire the Brotherhood, it means an assassin will soon arrive to carry out their deadly wish. The Black Sacrament is more than just a magical spell; it's a testament to the far-reaching influence and terrifying reach of the Dark Brotherhood, a constant reminder that no one is truly safe from their deadly embrace. It’s a chillingly effective piece of game design that really pulls you into the morbid atmosphere of the guild.
Shadowmere: Your Loyal Steed of Darkness
Every legendary assassin needs a legendary steed, and for members of the Dark Brotherhood, that steed is Shadowmere. This isn't just any horse, guys; Shadowmere is a spectral, dark horse bound to the service of the Brotherhood's most trusted assassins. You'll first encounter and be gifted Shadowmere after reaching a certain rank within the guild. This magnificent creature is more than just a mode of transportation; it's a loyal companion that will fight alongside you, and importantly, it has a remarkable ability to regenerate health. Even if Shadowmere falls in battle, which, let's be honest, happens to the best of us, don't despair! The horse will respawn after a set period (usually a few in-game days) at the nearest Wayshrine. This makes Shadowmere an incredibly reliable mount, especially during challenging quests where you might find yourself in a tight spot. Its spectral nature means it's tougher than your average horse and can withstand more punishment. Plus, let's be real, riding around on a sleek, black, otherworldly horse just adds to the whole assassin aesthetic, doesn't it? Taking care of Shadowmere, or at least ensuring it's available when you need it, is part of being a dedicated member of the Brotherhood. While it might not offer you tactical advice or share your burden of guilt, it’s a steadfast ally that never questions your orders and always answers your call. It’s a symbol of your status and a valuable asset in your deadly profession.
The Brotherhood's End: A Grim Conclusion
As you ascend through the ranks and become one of the most feared assassins in Cyrodiil, you'll inevitably reach the climax of the Dark Brotherhood questline in Oblivion. This conclusion is often dramatic, filled with betrayal, dark magic, and a final confrontation that will test your allegiance and your resolve. The culmination of your journey typically involves dealing with a major threat to the Brotherhood itself, often stemming from internal strife or external forces seeking to destroy the guild. You'll find yourself making critical decisions that will shape the future of the Dark Brotherhood, deciding who lives, who dies, and what the ultimate fate of the guild will be. The ending is designed to be impactful, leaving players with a sense of accomplishment and perhaps a touch of melancholy, given the dark path they've tread. The choices you make throughout the questline, especially concerning key characters like Cicero, will come back to influence the final outcome. Whether you emerge as a triumphant leader, a lone survivor, or something in between, the end of the Dark Brotherhood story is a memorable experience. It’s a fittingly grim and epic conclusion to one of the most iconic factions in The Elder Scrolls series. Prepare yourself, because the final steps of your assassin's journey are the most dangerous and the most rewarding. This is where your legend is forged, or perhaps extinguished, in the fires of betrayal and blood. What a ride it’s been, huh?
Beyond the Quests: The Dark Brotherhood Lifestyle
So, you've finished the main questline, become the ultimate assassin, and probably have more gold than you know what to do with. But what happens after the Dark Brotherhood quests? Well, guys, the fun doesn't stop there! Even after you've completed the main storyline, the Dark Brotherhood remains a significant part of your character's life in Cyrodiil. You can still receive special contracts, albeit less frequently and usually through more randomized methods, that allow you to continue honing your deadly skills and earning some extra coin. More importantly, the perks and benefits you've gained remain. You have access to the Brotherhood's sanctuaries, which often serve as safe houses and convenient fast-travel points. You'll retain access to unique vendors who sell specialized assassin gear, poisons, and enchanted items that are incredibly useful for any character, not just assassins. And let's not forget about Shadowmere, your loyal spectral steed, who is always ready to accompany you on your adventures. The Dark Brotherhood also offers a fantastic role-playing opportunity. You can continue to live the life of a stealthy killer, taking on side jobs, joining other factions, or simply enjoying the notoriety that comes with being a feared assassin. The world of Oblivion is vast, and even after completing the guild's main story, there are always new targets to find and new ways to utilize your unique talents. It's a lifestyle, really. You've earned your place among the shadows, so go out there and make sure everyone knows (or rather, doesn't know) who you are. Keep that blade sharp and your presence unknown; well, undetectable.
Tips for Aspiring Assassins
Before you go off plunging daggers into unsuspecting necks, here are a few tips for mastering the Dark Brotherhood. First off, stealth is your best friend. Invest in your Sneak skill and acquire gear that boosts it. Being able to move unseen is paramount. Use the shadows, crouch whenever possible, and always be aware of your surroundings. Guards can be a nuisance, but they're often predictable. Secondly, master your chosen weapon. Whether it's a dagger, sword, or even a bow, get proficient. Poisons are also incredibly useful; learn to craft them or buy potent ones. A well-placed poison can make a difficult assassination a walk in the park. Thirdly, pay attention to contract details. The Brotherhood values efficiency and adherence to specific instructions. Sometimes, making a kill look like an accident or fulfilling a secondary objective can yield bonus rewards or increase your standing. Fourth, manage your reputation. While the Dark Brotherhood thrives in secrecy, your actions in the wider world can still affect you. Avoid unnecessary bloodshed or getting caught in the act, as this can lead to bounties and attract unwanted attention. Finally, explore the sanctuaries. Each sanctuary has its own unique atmosphere, vendors, and sometimes even hidden quests or treasures. They also serve as excellent bases of operation. Remember, guys, becoming a successful assassin isn't just about killing; it's about professionalism, discretion, and becoming a legend whispered about in hushed tones. Good luck out there, and may Sithis guide your blade.
The Legacy of the Dark Brotherhood in Oblivion
The legacy of the Dark Brotherhood in Oblivion is undeniable. They represent one of the most compelling and well-executed faction questlines in the entire Elder Scrolls series. From the chilling introduction via the Black Sacrament to the morally complex decisions and the epic conclusion, the Brotherhood offers an experience unlike any other. They embody the darker, more morally ambiguous side of Tamriel, providing players with a unique opportunity to explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, faith, and the nature of consequence. The characters, like the enigmatic Cicero and the stoic Arquen, are memorable and add depth to the narrative. The impact of the Brotherhood isn't just felt within their questline; their presence is a constant shadow over Cyrodiil, a reminder of the unseen forces at play. For many players, joining and rising through the ranks of the Dark Brotherhood is a defining moment in their Oblivion playthrough. It’s a testament to Bethesda’s skill in world-building and storytelling, creating a faction that feels both dangerous and alluring. The Dark Brotherhood isn't just a group you join; it's an identity you adopt, a path you walk paved with secrets and steel. Their legacy is one of fear, efficiency, and a shadowy adherence to a twisted code, making them an unforgettable part of the Oblivion experience.
Conclusion: Embrace the Shadows
So there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the sinister and captivating world of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion's Dark Brotherhood. We've covered how to join, the thrilling (and deadly) quests you'll undertake, the unique rewards like Shadowmere, and the profound impact this guild has on the game's world and your character. Whether you're a seasoned assassin looking to relive the glory days or a newcomer eager to embrace the shadows for the first time, the Dark Brotherhood offers an unparalleled experience. It's a journey filled with intrigue, danger, and the ultimate test of your skills. Remember to stay stealthy, complete your contracts with precision, and perhaps ponder the darker aspects of honor and loyalty. The Brotherhood's legacy in Oblivion is etched in blood and whispered in fear, a testament to its powerful storytelling and immersive gameplay. So, go forth, embrace the darkness, and may Sithis always be with you. Happy assassinating!
