I'm thinking that the two lovelies are Sheogorath's personal attendants because they wouldn't talk to me.

You caught me cheating again.

What it is, is that my mod list has some conflicts with Ghastley's Rumple mod. Pretty sure entering the Oblivion Gate before its time just made things worse. So, I said why not break in and see what's there.


The Moody Blues, Melancholy Man

20250202 I-SL – Zendria tasks

To say we were shocked when the little rowboat sprung forward under its own power would be an understatement. Fiona, Elenya and I looked at each other and realized that whichever god was controlling the little boat our combined magic would not be enough to counter it.

Watching Archer’s Rock growing smaller and smaller as we sped across the Emean Sea, we grimly prepared to meet whatever fate had in store for us.

Dawn had broken when we were deposited near the eastern gate of a walled city sitting on a tiny island. There wasn’t much of island to speak of. The surf splashed upon the city’s stone walls where the foundation was set in the sea.

A stern-faced Golden Saint stationed at the gate greeted us with an icy stare. The way her fingers danced eagerly on the hilt of her sword concerned me. Knowing Fiona’s opinion of Golden Saints, I turned to caution Elenya and Fiona when I caught sight of someone running franticly to and fro in the shallow waters in front of the gate.

Should I send the ladies to investigate the man running around in the surf while I deal with the Golden Saint at the gate?

My question became moot when the searcher stopped his running around and came to greet us. The searcher, an Imperial, introduced himself as Longius Curio the head of the Disciples of the Moment, a newly formed Artists Guild. He had recently acquired the ruined island city of Zendria and was in the process of establishing a guild for artists here.

Longius explained that The Disciples of the Moment had started moving in when an unfortunate event occurred. His clerk was carrying a crystal that powered the gates security system when he was attacked by a large Scalon. The Scalon swallowed the clerk and the gate crystal in one gulped before disappearing in the sea. Now the gates are locked, no one can get in or out.

Longius is having a difficult time finding the Scalon. Although he believes that swallowing the Gate Crystal will prevent the Scalon from getting very far, he needs help. A glance at our gear Longius assumes that we are experienced hunters and asks for our help hunting down the Scalon. We accept.

The two city guards, an Aureal at the East Gate, which we have already met, and a Mazken at the West Gate, can’t leave their stations to help the search but they do offer some advice. The guards tell us that Scalons can breathe under water, and they can become invisible. We knew that but we politely said thanks any way.

Working on the advice received by the two city guards, we wait until the night is dark before searching the water surrounding the city. A detect life spell is a good tool for finding invisible beasts. It works even better when in the dark of night.

Retrieving the Gate Crystal from the body of the Scalon, Red Kelp, we returned it to Longius Curio. With the gates now operating properly, Longius asks if we would check on all the inhabitants of Zendria; Yan-Tissam Zainnabi, Barnard Laelippe, M’ahnise, and Thollorn.

We agreed to do that for him after we get some rest. Without an inn in Zendria we found a spot under the trees near where we found Red Kelp to throw a blanket. A star lit sky, mild temperature, and the gentle sound of waves lapping; we were sound asleep in no time.

The next morning, we entered the city. Our first impression was “Not another city building contract!”

Aside from easels set-up for the artists, the courtyard of Zendria is vacant and waterlogged. The city itself is much like every other Shivering Isles city, in that it is divided into two main camps: Dementia and Mania. The two camps barely maintain a cool but cordial relationship.

Along the western wall are two great doors. The door north of the West Gate is the entrance to the Cave of Entrophy, a Dementia aligned residence. South of the West Gate stands its counterpart, the door to the Mania aligned Chamber of Euphoria.

There is one other door of interest, a heavily chained and locked wooden door located on the east wall just north of the East Gate. Where it leads is unknown.

Speaking to the residents of both houses, we found them to be friendly and somewhat willing to talk.

M’ahnise, a female Khajiit residing in the Cave of Entrophy says, “We are free and still trapped here. As we would be trapped everywhere else. What a feat.”

Thollorn, a male Bosmer also residing in the Cave of Entrophy says, “I must confess seeing the clerk get gulped down by a Scalon was one of the most impressive sight I have ever seen. If only it had been a bit more bloody.”
Even for a resident of Dementia, this guy is really sick. Looking over a sample of his nightmarish macabre paintings gave my sweet Ladies the shivers.

Yan-Tissam Zainnabi, a Dunmer residing in the Chamber of Euphoria said, “We’re back in business, so to speak. Best news around here in a very, very long time, thanks for letting me know.”

Barnard Laelippe, a Breton also residing in the Chamber of Euphoria said, “Great news that the gates are open. Supplies were running low. Feels a lot better.”

After reporting to Longius Curio that all was well with the residents, Longius gave us the title of Aide to the Disciples of the Moment.

Being that it was getting late we went looking for a place to spend the rest of the night. My Ladies found the Cave of Entrophy too damp.

Fiona whines about her curls hanging limp and flat while Elenya cries over looking like a frizzy cotton ball.

“But isn’t that better than staticky, and fly away?” From the burn-through-to-your-soul looks, I gathered that I was wrong and would never understand.

Talking to Yan-Tissam and Barnard we found out that Barnard has lost his favorite “Golden Bush”. He believes someone stole it. We offer to help find it. How hard can it be with so few suspects? This is our first hint at faction discord in Zendria.

The artists M’ahnise and Thollorn only have insults to offer us now that we are working with the Mania will no longer speak to us. Fortunately, the Gate Guards don’t have such biases. Following their hint ‘they like to throw their trash over the walls’ we found Barnard’s Golden Brush on top of one of the roofs and returned it to him.

The hard part was finding a way to climb up to the roof. At the north end of the west wall, I found a growth of mushroom tree saplings and hydnum azurea growing on the wall that made for perfect wall climbing steps. And as with Mount Shroom, I couldn’t manage the last jump and had to use the Midas Angel Wings spell and fly to the top.

Elenya said I needed to improve my athletic and acrobatic abilities. She offered to help with training. Fiona agreed, and together they began browsing through a book of exotic exercises. I don’t know if I like this.

As Barnard was thanking us for the return of his golden brush, he mentioned that Yan-Tissam was having issues with a ghost of a Royal Boar.

Intrigued, we spoke to Yan-Tissam about the ghost. She told me about finding a key that activates the teleport pad in the Chamber of Euphoria. The pad leads to Mingling, a hidden vault, a perfect location for Yan’s art studio.

Problem is Mingling is haunted by the ghost of King Rhobar III. His kingdom was overrun by Orcs. King Rhobar, to evade the Orcs used old magic to take the shape of a willd boar. Now his ghost appears as a huge wild boar. It is no normal ghost either. Yan-Tissam claims it’s invincible; strike it, and within seconds every wound disappears. Even those done by magic. Handing me the key to the Mingling teleport pad she told us to be careful; don’t be pig food.

As we turned to leave Yan-Tissam, we could hear her mutter; “One day or another I have to have a talk with Barnard about talking with other people. Can't keep any secret. And then he's surprised that he's always sleeping alone. Oh well.”

“An "invincible ghost"? That's odd.” I spoke.

“Impossible, as my sister Claire would say,” Fiona added. “If it looks invincible, it's merely a strong enchantment holding the body in shape.”

“There is balance in all things,” Elenya reminded us. “Any enchantment worth its name can only be broken by a greater than equal force. Be it a combination of attacks or by a truly devastating blow.”

“Poor sap,” I concluded. “Starved to death in a cellar, just because he stayed too long in the shape of a boar his mind forgot how to use a teleport pad. Typical Sheogorath prey.”

Taking Yan’s key, we activated the transport pad were instantly sent to Mingling. The royal boar ghost saw us and attacked. We responded with everything we had in one concentrated attack. A blast from Fiona’s Eldrich Nightstaff along with Elenya’s and my enchanted swords overwhelmed the ghost, banishing it forever.

The reward for our efforts was Yan-Tissam Zainnabi directing us to another quest. Yan confided that Barnard was distraught over a lost painting. And didn't we hear her complaining about Barnard not keeping secrets?

She explained that during their haste to move to Zendria Barnard left his masterpiece behind. Speaking to Barnard, he tells us that he left it at the highest point in Mania. He’d go get it but according to the city guards the Shivering Isles has become too dangerous for him to travel. After watching him practice with a sword, the Ladies and I have to agree he’d never make it.

Thinking that we know the location Barnard is describing we offer to get the painting. Speaking to the two city guards helped pinpoint the location. With a good idea of where we had to go, we prepared to leave Zendria the next day.

This post has been edited by macole: Feb 14 2025, 12:27 AM

Hmm, we have little rowboats like that in ESO that instantly take you to islands or dungeons - a nice mechanic. Wow, those Zendrites sure have a lot of tasks they want done! I do miss detect life - what a fun and handy spell effect.

Acadian: I don't use Detect Life often, but it does come in handy at time.

20250213 I-SL – Zendria, Mount Sheogorath

It was a bright sunny morning when we left Zendria to continue Fiona’s tour of the Shivering Isle. We returned to the main island by the boat that brought us to Zendria. Stepping into the boat and off we went. An instant later we stood facing Archer’s Rock.

Walking northward from Archer’s Rock we hugged the walls of The Fringe until we reached the Low Road. Continuing east on the road just passed the junction where the Overlook Road meets the Low Road there’s an interesting house Fiona might be interested in seeing. Turning south a short ways off the Low Road along the walls of The Fringe we stood at the door of Watcher’s Eye Manor.

The door was locked, needing a key that I didn’t seem to have. I knocked. From inside came the traditional universal Xivilai greeting; a loud gnashing of teeth followed by “I’ll hack you to pieces”.

“Hard to tell sometimes but I don’t think she likes you,” Fiona said. “Are you sure you’ve been here before?”

I thought I had. Doubt began to creep in.

“Only in passing,” I told her

It was late afternoon, early evening and I was hoping to be able to spend the night here but that plan changed and we headed north on the Low Road.

The trip started out alright, but it didn’t last long. Clouds rolled in and it became increasingly dark as we traveled up the Low Road. About halfway to New Sheoth, near the Hill of Suicides junction it began to rain. To make matters worse as we passed by the cemetery we were attacked by a crazed vampire (VH-OVB).

By the time we reached Runoff Camp we were tired and frustrated on top of standing there soaking wet. Elenya and Fiona were not happy. The fuse was short that I could see. Quickly I cast a mild desert wind to blow over us, drying our soaked clothing within minutes. The return of warm and dry comfort brought with it the sound of gentle voices.

Gentle, that is, until Elenya saw the locked jewelry box sitting on the table.

“You were supposed to talk to Zerreshju about that...” and that’s all it took.

You forgot to talk to Zerreshju, didn’t you? We could have had a nice warm room for the night. You did read the Black Horse Courier article about Zerreshju, didn’t you? You said it would be a romantic moonlit walk. That vampire nearly bit me! My hair hangs lifeless like a wet noodle!

On and on they went. Self-doubt was getting deeper.

What could I say? I thought I had talked Zerreshju. What happened? It was beginning to feel like a dragon-break, a rewinding of time without saving first. It’s happened before.

With my mind spinning like top, I did the only thing I could think of. Whoosh, the sound of the air rushed in to fill the void I left behind.

Using my Stranded Light version of a Mark and Recall spell, I marked Runoff Camp then used a different spell to travel to Merendin. Once there, I sought out Zerreshju to talk to her about things I should have, thought I had, already done.

Yes, Zerreshju was at one time a peacekeeper, someone who smoothed out frictions between the Mazken and Aureal, and she stopped the Daedra from harassing the mortal residents of the Shivering Isles. She also sold houses in Dementia. She still has the key to a locked parcel that was stolen from her. The parcel holds the key and deed to Watcher’s Eye Manor. If I should happen to find the parcel, the deed and key to Watcher’s Eye Manor are mine to keep.

I thanked Zerreshju and cast the Recall to return to Runoff Camp. It was mid-morning by the time I returned to Runoff Camp.

Afraid that I had left them stranded here in the realm of madness, Elenya and Fiona were overjoyed at my returned. They were really sorry about the outburst last night. Blaming it on the weather and too much time spent in the Realm of the Mad God, Elenya and Fiona treated me like royalty.

For a few moments that is.

My Ladies hung close to my side in apprehension as I produced the key Zerreshju gave me. Opening the locked jewel box, we starred in to find an ebony ring and the key to Watcher’s Eye Manor.

“I shall fall to my knees and give thanks,” Elenya said in self-grandiose tone of voice. “He does listen to us.”

Snatching up the key and ring I turned to Elenya and with mock indignation said, “Well, yes, you know, I always listen.”

There was an uncomfortable stare down moment. Maintaining the unblinking eye contact, I gave her a sly little smile. Elenya cracked and began to laugh. Fiona joined in and soon the three of us were dancing hand-in-hand around the campfire. Somewhere far, far away someone played a fiddle.

With everyone in a good mode I declared that it was time to find Barnard’s masterpiece. Up, along the mountain ridgeline we hiked. The ridgeline took us north then curled around to the west into the state of Mania. We crossed the Overlook Road and there we began the ascent to the highest point in the land.

Hours of climbing Mount Sheogorath, had us standing high above the clouds starring at the base of a massive pillar on which sat an equally massive bust of... who? Some unknown god? Perhaps, the combined nature of Sheogorath and Jyggalag? Who knows?

Looking down at the dense cloud cover Elenya commented, “That’s an awfully dense fog. Jandaga, do you think the “high” elves are having a convention down there?”

“Bunch of bogarts, didn’t pass any to us when we were down there,” Fiona said sniffing the rare air.

A couple hours later when the clouds parted, we got a good look at Barnard’s masterpiece. It was not in good shape. The delicate canvas was likely to fall apart at the slightest touch. We would have to be very careful while carrying it. best to avoid all fighting and definitely keep it dry. Barnard will be very upset if his masterpiece is destroyed.

A teleportation spell would be the safest way to transport the fragile canvas to Zendria. There’s only problem, my usual teleportation spells are not working on this mountain peak. We will have to walk down the mountain.

[After some experimentation I found that the Midas Magic Astral Gate was the only fast travel method that functioned. Of course you must have set your mark first.]

Walking down the southwestern slope of Mount Sheogorath came across The Stairway of Sheogorath. The Stairway of Sheogorath is basically a small, covered landing with stairs leading a short way down the rocky slope to a little nook with three urns. We picked up an amber matrix there.

Not far from The Stairway of Sheogorath we passed Punishment Point. Stopping to investigate we discovered a note on the body of recently executed Robert Wisnewski, condemned for attempting to grow a beard. A capitol offense for mocking Sheogorath.

Further down Mount Sheogorath we passed through Split. Split is a strange little village where there is a Manic and a Demented version of each person. We quickly passed through Split once we found out that every person in split wants someone to kill their double.

Continuing on our way down the mountains range, the terrain became less mountainous, less vertical, and easier to travel. As we passed by Knotbone Chamber and the secret entrance to Xaselm, Sanctum of Vivisection we decided it was time to turn westward toward the sea. Arriving at the shore of the little inlet that runs alongside the walls of The Fringe, we could see Archer’s Rock and the tethered boat that would take us safely to Zendria.

There were still hours left of daylight when we delivered the unfinished painting to Barnard. Barnard rewarded me with the greater power spell “Rhobar’s Revenge” (Summon Hunter, Resist Magic 10% 120 sec., Resist Normal Weapons 5% 120 sec.).

It’s getting late, I was hoping that after doing errands for the residents of Zendria someone would allow us the curtsey of bed to sleep in. There are a few empty beds available but the people here are not in a sharing mood. When asked about what we could do we’re told things may change, come back in a few days.

With the opportunity of free time, we look at each other and wonder what we should do.

Golden Saints are creepy. They always creep me out in Morrowind. So they're in SI too?

Wow, look at the night scene.



Yikes, that does sound pretty sick. My dark elf skooma dealer is going into Shivering Isles eventually. It is summer of the Year 434 in his game, which is about when I began the main quest on PS3. I'm going to roleplay the Oblivion Crisis kicks in, and he's trying to escape. But this will be my FIRST TIME in the Isles. Been playing since 2008, have never been to SI. Any advice?






I'll catch up to Jandaga's current chapter in a few...

The tour continues.

I see what you did there with the 'high elves'.

That growing a beard is deemed a capital offense surprised me until you explained it is considered mockery of Sheogorath himself! Almost as bad a wearing a cheesehat I should think.

I vaguely remember that little town of Split for many years ago.

Only Sheogorath has a beard in Oblivion. The best everyone else can hope for is a bit of ill-defined stubble, but the good news is that it isn't limited to the men. So beware anyone who introduces a mod that makes people grow beards: the fate of Robert Wisnewski awaits you!

OH NO, run from the Oblivion Crisis and step into the Greymarch!

I'm not the best one to ask for advice in the Shivering Isles. Other than a visit now and then, I haven't explored much of it or played through the main quest. I will say you must visit Dreamwalker Camp. Day or night, it's a great view from the boardwalk.

Please take pics.

This qualifies as "advice".

Yes, considering that Sheogorath created them. The Golden Saints and the Dark Seducers mirror the two sides of Sheogorath's personality, as well as that of the Shivering Isles, which is arguably the same thing. Buckle up!


Nothing is quite as it seems in the land of Sheogorath. It's like Sanguine's jokes on steroids. Be ready for anything.

Be ready for anything, yikes! It's that unpredictable an experience, phew.

Although the wizard who did the Main Quest in my head-canon was on a PS3 which fried over 10 years ago, I'm pretty sure he started the MQ some time in the Year 434. I want to say spring or summer of 434, which is where my skooma dealer's game is at. We then got the MQ done in two or three very intense in-game months. I'm the sort of gamer who like to take her time (love exploring & travel) but once Grey Wizard visited Kvatch, I had to make saving Cyrodiil a priority. No more random exploring!

I was hustling his game for two reasons: 1). I wanted to get the MQ done because Skyrim was soon to come out, and 2). By then I'd learned about the A-bomb. 💣 I'd lost a couple games to the bomb (including a main quest game), both of them somewhere around 350 hours, so I really needed to get MQ finished in Grey Wizard's game before the bomb made everything wonky.

At some point I did some research, and determined it takes about a year for the Elder Council to decide when the Fourth Era begins, starting with the end of the Oblivion Crisis. So in my head-canon for Tamriel, I've been using Sun's Height 13, 435 as the official date. My dealer is already seeing some gates (I setstage the Main Quest in all my PC games) and they're freaking him out. He's a merchant, not a brave adventurer. So this is the premise for why he leaves Cyrodiil for a while.

Does the main quest also affect SI though?

No, not at all. You can totally ignore the MQ for the purpose of avoiding the A-bomb (or just in order to run away from the daedra ).

Believe me years from now you'll glad you did. Even though I haven't seen the vanilla version in over teen years I still think it is a wonder to behold.

20250223 I-SL – Watcher’s Eye Manor

With nothing to do in Zendria what will we do with the Free time we now have? Well, we got this key to Watcher’s Eye Manor let’s go see what it looks like. Then we’ll figure out what to do next.

Zerreshju’s key opened Watcher’s Eye Manor’s door. The split-level cottage was surprisingly brightly lit and well furnished. Several paintings adorned the walls. A big rough looking Xivilai female greeted us in the universal Xivilai manner; loud gnashing of teeth followed by “I’ll hack you to pieces”.

An ever so slight vibration in the floor informed me that my Ladies' stance had stiffened with the Xivilai’s greeting.

“I don’t think she likes you,” warned Fiona.

“Tread lightly, my Jandaga,” cautioned Elenya. “But don’t back down.”

Good advice when dealing with strange Xivilai.

“How did you get past the locked door?” thundered Tandruzuk as I shouted, “What are you doing here?”

Seems there is an issue concerning ownership of Watcher’s Eye Manor. The Xivilai, Tandruzuk claims Sheogorath had granted her asylum, allowing her to live here for the past 3 centuries, as a reward for her service as spy in Mehrune’s forces. I, on the other hand, stood there with a key and deed to the manor legally acquired just days ago.

We were at an impasse, what could I do? Noticing Tandruzuk’s obvious interest in painting I did a little sidestep and asked about her collection of paintings. She happily told us a story on each painting. One in particular, the painting on the easel of a mortal dressed in monk robes giving a piggyback ride to a Daedra Seducer, had an especially interesting tale.

Tandruzuk told us, “It's a vision I've seen in my dreams. A mortal and a Daedra Seducer, and both fall in their own way. Through her sacrifice the Seducer became Aedric, mortal without the mortal man knowing. Through her teaching the mortal trancended the fate that was destined to be his. He learned enough about Daedra to defend himself and his surrounding against them. And through this everyone lost. The Seducer, because even though she made the ultimate sacrifice, she was cast away. The mortal, because his knowledge will be his undoing. The Daedra in general, because he will strengthen the Liminal Barrier. And all this caused by what was to be a single seduction, a night of pleasure. Behold the consequences.”

A former daedra worshiper defeats Mehrunes Dagon, doesn’t that story sounded familiar. Kind of puts Daedra worship in a new light.

Another interesting description was for the painting Tandruzuk called "Xivilai Lieing".

“I'm happy about this painting; that the Xivilai agreed to be painted like this,” Tandruzuk replied. “It shows how beautiful our kind can be. Some argue, like Tesserayiel, that you need to conquer the hearts of mortals. I think Kanaane is right - you only need to conquer the pants of half of them. Do these names sound familiar to you?”

“Yes, we know Tesserayiel and Kanaane.”

Then I saw what looked like the Stranded Light Reliquary sitting in front of the Seducer riding mortal painting. Tandruzuk has no idea where it came from or how to use it. The reliquary just appeared one day.

With that obvious omen, I asked, “Would you like to join the Stranded Light?”

When Tandruzuk agreed to join the Stranded Light ranks, I took the opportunity to interview her for Phintias’ article. Having learn so much about Tandruzuk already, to satisfy my curiosity I simply asked, "Had any visitors here?"

“Not in a long time.” Tandruzuk confessed. “Not before you came, not after I settled here. Well, there were people at the door, knocking and shouting to get inside. "Ow, the Scalon tries to eat me!" "Ow, the Gummite wants to skin me alive!" They didn't have any key though, and I didn't want their blood on my floor. Why are you looking like that? Don't expect me to fight against any monsters, I couldn't have saved them even if I had tried.”

Noticing that the Xivilai still had not torn me to pieces, Fiona said, “Amado Mio, I was wrong. I think she likes you.”

I nearly laughed. With a wry grin, thinking it was time to put it to the test I brought up the subject of ownership of Watcher’s Eye Manor.

The negotiation went better than I could have expected. Tandruzuk made me an offer I couldn’t refuse. Knowing that I would probably be away doing whatever she accepted my ownership of the manor and offers to stay here and keep care of the place in my absence. Only thing I had to do was to not disturb her things when I was at home.

That brought a satisfactory resolution to two issues. One, I would own the manor and have a place to stay whenever I visit the Shivering Isles. Two, Tandruzuk would live here as a permanent resident house security. And as a bonus, another Stranded Light member interviewed was collected.

Elenya smiled, “There is harmony in Nature and all things are balanced in the end.”

There was a slight pause, then as she and Fiona headed upstairs to find the bed for the night, Elenya added, “And who’s to complain if the balance is tilted a bit in our favor.”

The next morning the Ladies and I used the Stranded Light Teleportation spell to send us to Merendin. Arriving in the reception hall of Merendin, we were immediately inundated with hundreds of questions. Everyone in the room wanted to hear the latest adventures of Elenya and Fiona.

As Elenya and Fiona recanted their epic saga in great prose, I began to get the feeling that something was not quite right. There standing quietly off to one side dressed in a top showing too much cleavage and a skirt way too short was a familiar face.

Heidi! You’re not supposed to be here! Why aren’t you on patrol with your bear?

Something is terribly wrong. Heidi doesn’t say a thing; she just follows me around wherever I go. This is not good. I must find a way to send Heidi back to where she belongs.

Who knew that simply discussing art could calm an Xivilai?

The ownership and arrangements for Watcher’s Eye Manor are peacefully resolved or, as Elenya put it, “There is harmony in Nature and all things are balanced in the end.”

Uh oh, Heidi without her bear? What (or who) is she going to ride?

Watcher's Eye Manor looks cozy. Probably deceiving in the long run... but yeah, "surprisingly bright and well furnished" is an apt description.

"I'll hack you to pieces!" 🧟‍♀️ And then there are... pleasant observations follow from the Field Followers. So she's not trying to hack the Jandaga to pieces?





Well that's a weird rule. "You can stay here, but don't "disturb" any of my stuff", hmm, that doesn't seem like it's going to be possible! What does she mean by disturb? Read a book? Move an armchair? Use any utensils on the premises?

Good thing is Jandaga is constantly on the move. I doubt he'll return to Watcher's Eye more than one more time.

Heidi could bugged. CM Partners are famous for just showing up unannounced, or following us even if we've never interviewed them.

This post has been edited by Renee: Feb 27 2025, 03:48 AM

Renee: Oh, Tandruzuk probably doesn’t want me to find the silk panties she has stashed away in a chest. Her tough Xivilai girl image would be ruined.

20250305 I-SL, Ocean’s Elysium

(As I looked into the Heidi issue it became obvious that attempting to close the Oblivion Gate, the Rumple mod added to the Shivering Isle, was where things broke down. By not entering the Oblivion Gate, a quick rerun of the Shivering Isles Stranded Light quests proved the game world was back to normal. Now, Heidi is back riding polar bears bare-back where she belongs. Elenya, Fiona, and I are now ready to leave Watcher’s Eye Manor.)

Elenya smiled, “There is harmony in Nature and all things are balanced in the end.”

Fiona rolled her eyes upward and countered, “I think it is the spirit in the sky that tilts the scale in our favor.”

The next morning the Ladies and I left Watcher’s Eye Manor to return to Cyrodiil. Our first stop via the Stranded Light Teleportation spell was to Mir Corrup to visit the bookstore. When I handed the Love Letter to M’kendri, she purred excitedly.

“Now I’ll be able to sell my books!”

Now why would she say that? My curiosity piqued, I asked to see her book selection. One title, Ocean’s Elysium, stood out like a beacon in the night. I bought it, tucked it away in my pack as we prepared to travel to Merendin

Back in Merendin we made the rounds describing the accomplishments of our sojourn to the Shivering Isles. Ahtize to my surprise had an interest in the Ocean’s Elysium book. Turns out the small book of riddles points to a Maormer safe house. Accidents do happen and Maormer need a secluded place to stay.

Ahtize says if we wish to find the Elysium, go right ahead. Just keep it a secret. Ahtize had a few clues for us; the entrance would be under water close to shore, the Eternal King’s name is Orgnum, and the Anticipations are Boethia, Azura, and Mephala.

We’ve run across treasure hunt riddles like this before. The first five riddles are five separate locations. The first sets the reference point ‘the center of the circle’ the White gold Tower in the center of the Imperial City. So, the prize is located near the Imperial City.

The next four riddles define targeting coordinates. Identify the location, draw lines N. S. E. W. and where the lines converge, then as they say X marks the spot. The sixth riddle would be a password needed to unlock the place of refuge.

1. A place of refuge, near the centre of the wheel. The place where everything is true.
2. Where the circle is reborn. A sparkle of life, separated from the host of its body.
3. Where the hole stands highest, a place of solace that became a place of eternal rest disturbed.
4. Where the circle is broken, one of two ruby brothers is drinking dusk's lichor. At his feet the slave-to-ruler holds court.
5. It's face touched by the midday sun, the anticipation of Nerevar's murderer withers through time.
6. Know the eternal King's name.

Riddles number four and five I assumed were clearly daedric shrines. Number four I thought pointed to Sanguine’s shrine. He is sculpted holding a large stein mug in one hand, his foot is resting on something, and he is often painted bright red. I thought I had it figured out very well and… well my Ladies didn’t agree and debate ensued.

Riddles #2 and #3 went the same way. The brainstorming session had fallen flat on its face. The lines we drew on the map were not making any sense. They were all over the place. It was time to get some expert help. Perhaps the Maormer living in Mir Corrup might know something.

Even the one riddle that we could agree on, #5 is one of the “Good Daedra”, left us bickering over which anticipation of Nerevar’s murderer is it referring to; Azura, Boethiah, or Mephala? Studying the map we decided on Mephala‘s shrine.

Before leaving for Mir Corrup, Fiona informed me that the grapes needed tending and she needed to return to Shadowcrest. Good timing, Kaleah and Pym were eager to get back out on the road and Fiona’s departure would make traveling less cumbersome. A lot less attractive though.

Arriving in Mir Corrup, we looked up the three Maormer currently living in the city.

Girovve of the Beyond the Veil pointed out that in riddle #4 “slave-to-ruler” could refer to Alessia. Yes, Fort Alessia makes more sense than the Shrine of Sanguine.

Rheed, one of the Sunken Treasure clothiers took a look at the riddles and exclaimed, “What sick mind invents this kind of torture? Bah!”

For a moment I was afraid Rheed wouldn’t help then he pointed to riddle #3 and declared that it describes Sancre Tor. So obvious now that it’s mentioned.

Duygu, Rheed’s wife and co-owner of Sunken Treasure offers her guess to Riddle #2. ”It’s about water, a lake, once part of a river but not anymore.” Lake Poppad near Vaermina’s shrine fits the bill.

That’s more than enough to tell us that this Maormer refuge is in the waters of Lake Rumare near Fort Magia.

Half a day hiking plus several hours swimming among the boulders strewn about the bottom of Lake Rumare, we found the entrance to Elysium. The door opened at the command word, “Orgnum”.

Swimming a short underwater tunnel we emerged to a large underground cavern.

Climbing out of the water, we were greeted by large female Xivilai. Noting our surprise at seeing a Xivilai in what we understood to be a Maormer sanctuary, Shiva explained that she had long ago become so disillusioned with serving Mehrunes Dagon that when she found this cave she took the opportunity to get away from the constant war. She’s been living here ever since, long before any sea elf the Maormer arrived.

“Live and let live has always been my motto,” Shiva boomed in the cavern. “No need for violence, this place is big enough for everyone passing by.”

As we toured the cave we met the “Twins”; Donajira and Donajiri. The ‘Twins’ attempt to dive back home had failed. They found that it was too far and without supplies they would not make it. They made it to shore where to their horror they discovered the roasted remains of Paoles. It wasn’t long that they found themselves on menu for the next dinner. The twins fled inland in search of Elysium through the forests of Valenwood, across the burning sands of Elsweyr to find this place.

“Oh,” Donajira said. “Did I mention that some crazy cannibals tried to eat us on our way here? Funnily the only reason for us to go on land was to find something to eat. So we had to get out of the forest and stumbled into a desert. We nearly died of thirst and dehydration. Oh and cats as big as houses hunted after us.”

Donajiri continued the narrative, “My sister and I barely survived. Now that we're here, well, it's getting better each day. Though I fear we're in for a long haul. To take those of us stranded here home, every twelve years a few sea serpent riders come along. Last time it was last year, so it will take a while until we're taken back.
The finale resident of Eylsium we met was not a stranded victim. Ornailla had come to Elysium on her own accord.

“I'm here studying old legends of the heartland,” Ornailla told us. “We have our own books in Pyandonea, but I hungered for something more exotic.”

After meeting everyone there wasn’t much else to do. No one asking for special favors or quests allowed us to relax and fall asleep. The next day we left Elysium to go to I.C. Market District.

“Feache,” Kaleah said as we walked across Lake Rumare toward the Imperial City. “Does it concern you that so many Xivilai females have joined the ranks of the Stranded Light?”

“It’s odd isn’t it,” I replied. “Perhaps the Xivilai female aspect is more easily disillusioned with serving in Mehrunes
Dagon’s constant war than the bull-headed male Xivilai. Must be the size of their horns.”

For some reason Kaleah found that hilarious. She was still laughing when we entered the Market District.

Yeah, cuz Xivali girls gotta maintain that tough image, mmm hmm, you GO girl!

Ocean's Eleven Elysium.

Wow, this riddle sounds awesome. Almost like Davinci Code. I'm actually going to try thinking about these clues. 🔍

1. sounds like an inn or a tavern, somewhere near or in the "center". And this is NOT White Gold Tower, correct? --- Hard to say. The clue is written kind of vague... like a riddle (duh!).

... But hold on. Are these clues describing vanilla locations? Or mod-added locations?

2. Where the Circle is Reborn. I'll come back to this.

3. Where the hole is highest, a place of rest that becomes a place of eternal rest. 🪦 Eternal rest... Are these locations supposed to be IN the city, or just near it? The first five riddles are five separate locations. Hmm. That clue makes me think of a graveyard.

4. Dusk's liqor? I'm lost. Sounds like Shivering Isles or something to do with an Oblivion gate. Nah, can't be. Jandaga's done with the Main Quest, right? -- Yeah I have no idea. Someplace Daedra-ish, perhaps.

Riddles number four and five I assumed were clearly daedric shrines. ---- Nice! At least I'm on the right track.

Number four I thought pointed to Sanguine’s shrine. He is sculpted holding a large stein mug in one hand, his foot is resting on something, and he is often painted bright red.

Okay, so Sanguine is drinking Dusk's liqor. 🍺 And if we're including Daedric Shrines into the equation, I don't know those well enough. My third character (Renee Gade) was able to do some of those as her PS3 game leveled out of control. After that I began substituting Minors for Majors, so that none of my console characters ever got higher than Level 8 thru 11. On PC I've got people who level well into the teens and 20s, but none of them have done the shrines.

tl;dr above paragraph: I don't know those shrines well enough!

"Must be the size of their horns"... hurr hurr!

This post has been edited by Renee: Mar 5 2025, 04:44 PM

Renee: Did you figure it out? Early on, I once did all the Daedric quests. Now I only do a select few.

20250314 I-SL - Inquiring the Light, GwedenBrohel - Red Dragon, TAS – Vanuasecul

Our first stop was to the First Edition. When we informed Phintias of our progress interviewing Stranded Light members he asked if we had interviewed everyone. I had to admit we interviewed 20 Daedra Stranded Light members but there may be one left. Unfortunately, the Xivilai female has been turned into a statue and I don’t know how to restore her. Even if I did restore her, she may not want to join I don’t know if she would want to the Stranded Light

Phintias agreed with that as he looked over the notes I had taken on each of the interviews.

“Excellent!” he exclaimed. “More than I was hoping for. Never thought it possible to get as much, uhm, confessions from those tight-lipped Daedra.”

As a reward he gave me a dark rode (nice looking but nothing special), the glowing Nightmare Stone which can be used in enchanting like a sigil stone, and the Sword of Judgment an enchanted sword forged in Yokuda. Pretty nice stuff if you ask me.

“The stone? Crazy story,” Phintias replied when I asked about glowing pearl-like stone. “There was a battle between an imperial battlemage, of course not THE imperial battlemage, and some kind of Altmer wizard just outside of my door. The stone just rolled in, and no one wanted it back. I'm no mage, so it is just a creepy piece
of stone for me.”

“The sword?” Phintias continued. “Now that’s a rare piece of craftsmanship. A blade sharp enough to cut air. It is one of three identical swords, forged in Yokuda before it sank. It is enchanted by the arts that created it, as far as I can tell. Legendary as they may be, they tend to get 'lost' if not wielded. I am no warrior, so I am not the right wielder. Considering that you know how to talk, and how to fight, you're a lot more suitable. ”

Leaving the First Edition, the Ladies’ shopping spree was interrupted before it begun, when a familiar old beggar stopped us on the street.

”Oh no, not you again,” I protested in exasperation. “What is it now?”

Bertold Selatus knew that I had uncovered the Ayleid’s secret and that I had used the information to blackmail Councillor Osciuro. After confirming my suspicions that all of the Mages Guild members that I had delivered messages to during the mapping were Ayleid Agents, Bertold told me that Osciuro and his agents are worried about the True Descendants cult. They have a task they’d like me to do for them.

He predicted the Ayleid Agents will try to force me to work for them if I insist on keeping the key. Bertold mentioned that he expects me to help him and Elsabeth in the near future. With that Bertold left as quietly as he arrived.

Shortly after the old beggar left, Watchman Mercium showed up. Once again, he delivered a message that I should meet Councillor Osciuro in the Arena district.

True to Bertold’s prediction, Councillor Osciuro wants me to infiltrate a lost ruin named Vanuasecul, to find out what plans the True Descendants have. To do that, I must first obtain a key to the lower dungeon level from Aryarie in the Bravil Mages Guild.

”My little Feache,” Kaleah said, raking her talon-like nails up and down the back of my dragonspirit armor. “It looks like our journey together leads to Bravil.”

Despite the armor’s protective enchantments, my back arched as I felt the heat of her nails.

“Could be worse,” I replied. “You could take me the Deadlands.”

“My Jandaga,” Elenya said as she and Pym picked up off the cobblestones in front of the Arena. “You really shouldn’t tease Kaleah like that.”

I was ready to leave the Imperial City until Elenya and Kaleah reminded me that High Chancellor Ocato requested we accompany Taminwe to Leyawiin. Hmm, I suppose it’s possible to take Taminwe with us. After spending so much time in the Shivering Isles, a little trip to Leyawiin would be a welcome respite.

Arriving at the Red Dragon Club in the Talos Plaza District we find a rather annoyed and impatient Taminwe. Or maybe it’s just the normal Altmer attitude as Elenya and Kaleah suggest. Who’s to say?

Taminwe is ready to go, and we take to the road right away. Cross the Talos Bridge, pass through Weye, before turning south on the Ring Road. Magnus was getting low in the sky by the time we approached the Archeology Guild Hall, where we stopped for the night.

Aster Cei, Verus, Sova, Norlene, and a few new apprentices were amazed at the wonders we described during dinner. Sova said she wasn’t too thrilled at going to the Shivering Isles but Mir Corrup; she thought would definitely be an interesting place to visit.

Verus informs me that an Archaeology Guild expedition, led by Virani, has set up camp near the age-old silver Ayleid gate in the cavern beneath Chorrol and they found a way across the lava lake. (The unfinished ‘Who’s The Daddy’ quest in BCv6.0.8 has been finished in the Better Cities v6.4.5, should I care to update.)

The next morning, I and the Ladies leave the Archeology Guild and turn south on the Green Road. When we reach Bravil we go straight to the Mages Guild to meet with Aryarie. Aryarie gave me the key needed for the lower level of Vanuasecul. Then she asked if I find for her a rare purple welkynd stone rumored to be in Vanuasecul. She offered a good reward if I do.

With the Vanuasecul key in hand it was time to leave for Leyawiin. Tired of walking and with no ship ready to depart immediately for Leyawiin we hired Gever the Stranded Light Guild Guide to send us to Leyawiin.

An effective intelligence organization has eyes and ears in every level of society. The Elder Council has learned this lesson well since the Oblivion Crisis. Our first contact upon entering Leyawiin was Rancid Ra’dirsha, a Khajiit beggar.

In hushed tones, Rancid passed on to us that Countess Alessia Caro was plotting to have her cousin (who lives in Senchal) become the next Emperor. He also mentioned something about a secret document that Countess Alessia is holding. Taking the coin we offered, the beggar silently faded into the shadows.

Taminwe and I decide to split forces. She will go to Senchal while I search Castle Leyawiin to find out more about this secret document. We plan to meet at the Five Claw Lodge in five days. Taminwe left for Senchal immediately.
Later that night when all was dark and quiet the four of us; Elenya, Kaleah, Pym, and I enter Castle Leyawiin. The lone guard stationed at the front door recognized us and snapped to attention as we passed.

“My Lord Champion and Arch-mage,” he muttered. “Since we’re friends, don’t worry. Should anyone ask, you weren’t here.”

I always carry complimentary one visit Gweden Platinum Member passes for times like this.

First, we inspected the dungeon. Finding no trace of any secret document there, we next inspected the servant’s quarters.

Passing through the dining room we enter the servants’ quarters. After some time, we head down a hallway that leads to the tower. A small bedroom sits across the hall from the tower entrance. Its door was shut. Faint noises could be heard coming from inside the closed door. Cautiously, I opened the door.

Sergius Martius drew his dagger and leaped. Dodging his attack, I opened up an avenue for my Ladies. Quicker than lightning, three swords pinned the fool to the wall. There he hung until the Ladies withdrew their swords.

In the small room we found the evidence we were looking for. Sergius Martius was forging papers that acknowledge Cassynder Veranus as the legitimate son Emperor Pelagius IV of Tamriel. This would give Countess Alessia Caro’s cousin a claim to the vacant throne. We collect the document and seal to show Taminwe when she returns.

“Since Taminwe won’t be back for a few days,” Elenya suggested. “Why don’t we use the time to tell Osciuro that we have the Vanuasecul key?”

Good idea. With a wave of my hand a recall spell transported us to the Imperial City Arboretum mark. Judging, by the time-of-day Osciuro should be in the Arena District. We hurry on over to the Arena District and found Osciuro hanging around the Merchant District gates.

Osciuro hands me instructions on how to get to Vanuasecul. Looking the instructions over, I notice there is no mention of the starting stepstone.

Noticing the puzzled look on my face Osciuro said, “If you’re wondering where to start just think why I would be standing here in this gods forsaken district. Remember just get their plans and leave. Do not let them see you and don’t kill anyone!”

Ah ha, the first stepstone is in the Arena District. Good. I’ve seen it and know where it’s at.

“Come on let’s go,” I said to the Ladies.

“My dear over eager Feache,” Kaleah cautioned. “We can’t go with you. You need to sneak in. grab the plans, and sneak back out. One person doing that undetected will be very difficult, but for a group of four, nearly impossible. It’ll be like…”

Sneakin' sally through the alley
Trying to get away clean
Sneakin' sally through the alley
Oh, when up pops the queen

Of course she’s right. I will need to prepare. This requires Phelan’s Stealth Enhanced leather kit, the Ring of Khajiiti, and Red Claw another chameleon ring to guaranty success.

Now where did I put the Ring of Khajiiti?