Your adventure begins in the dank confines of the Imperial Prison. After customizing your character, Emperor Uriel Septim VII and his Blades will enter your cell, seeking an escape route. This initial sequence serves as a tutorial for basic movement, combat, and interaction. Follow the Emperor and his guards through the secret passage. You'll encounter your first enemies, Goblins, providing an opportunity to practice combat with various weapon types found in the prison. Pay attention to the prompts on screen, as they introduce core mechanics like blocking, power attacks, and spellcasting.

During this segment, you'll also make crucial decisions regarding your character's class and births. The Emperor will ask you about your past and aspirations, which subtly influence these choices. After the Emperor's tragic demise, you'll be tasked with escaping the prison. Loot the bodies of the fallen Blades and Goblins for equipment. Before exiting the sewers, you'll have a final opportunity to confirm your character's race, class, and births. Make sure these choices al with your desired playstyle, as they are permanent.