Imperial Factions
The Empire of Tamriel exerts its influence over Morrowind through various factions and organizations, most notably the Imperial Legion and the Imperial Cult. These factions represent the Imperial presence on Vvardenfell, offering unique questlines, services, and perspectives that often clash with or complement the native Dunmer culture.
The primary Imperial factions you will encounter are:
- The Imperial Legion: The military arm of the Empire, responsible for maintaining order, enforcing Imperial law, and defending the province. Joining the Legion offers a path for combat-oriented characters, with quests involving patrols, investigations, and suppressing threats to Imperial authority. They are often stationed in forts and garrisons across Vvardenfell.
- The Imperial Cult: A religious organization devoted to the Nine Divines (though their worship is more prevalent in other provinces, they have a presence on Vvardenfell). The Imperial Cult offers services such as healing, spellcasting, and divine blessings. Their questlines often involve acts of faith, charity, and combating religious dissent or Daedric influence. They are typically found in temples and shrines.
- The Blades: While not strictly an Imperial faction in the same vein as the Legion or Cult, the Blades are an intelligence and espionage organization that serves the Emperor. Your initial contact, Caius Cosades, is a member of the Blades, and their influence is central to the main questline.
Joining and Progressing:
You can join these factions by speaking with their respective leaders or recruiters. Each faction has its own hierarchy and quest progression:
- Imperial Legion: Quests often involve combat, investigation, and upholding Imperial law. Progression leads to higher ranks within the Legion, granting access to better equipment and authority.
- Imperial Cult: Quests focus on religious duties, healing, and combating heresy. Advancement within the Cult can unlock powerful spells and divine boons.
Interactions and Conflicts:
The presence of Imperial factions often creates friction with the native Dunmer, particularly the Great Houses. While some Houses, like Hlaalu, are more amenable to Imperial influence, others, like Telvanni and Redoran, maintain a more traditional and independent stance. Your allegiance to Imperial factions may affect your standing with certain Dunmer groups.
Engaging with Imperial factions provides an alternative path for character development and offers a different perspective on the political landscape of Morrowind. They offer valuable services and unique questlines that can be highly rewarding.