K.ins of the Past
The quest "Kins of the Past" is a pivotal moment in the main questline of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, requiring You to seek out and rally support from the various Counts and Countesses of Cyrodiil. This quest involves extensive travel and diplomacy, as the fate of the Empire hinges on uniting its leaders against the encroaching Daedric threat. Success requires careful navigation of political landscapes and sometimes, a bit of persuasion.
To begin "Kins of the Past," you must first complete the quest "Blood of the Daedra." Following this, Martin Septim will task you with speaking to the Emperor Uriel Septim VII's illegitimate children, who are now the rulers of Cyrodiil's various provinces. Your goal is to convince them to attend a council meeting in the Imperial City to discuss the crisis. This involves visiting each of their keeps and engaging in dialogue, often presenting evidence of the Oblivion crisis or appealing to their sense of duty.
Key Steps and Locations:
- Speak to Martin Septim: After "Blood of the Daedra," Martin will explain the need to gather the provincial rulers.
- Visit the Counts/Countesses:
- Countess Arriana Valga (Skingrad): Located in Skingrad Castle. She is generally receptive to the cause.
- Countess Hassildor (Chorrol): Located in Castle Chorrol. He is a vampire and may require special handling or persuasion.
- Count Jonna (Cheydinhal): Located in Castle Cheydinhal.
- Countess Umbra (Anvil): This is a unique situation. Umbra is a powerful warrior who has taken over a fort. You may need to defeat her or find another way to gain her respect.
- Countess Narina Carvain (Leyawiin): Located in Castle Leyawiin.
- Count Rugan (Bravil): Located in Castle Bravil.
- Countess Lylia (Bruma): Located in Castle Bruma.
- Return to the Imperial City: Once you have spoken to all the rulers, return to Martin Septim.
- Attend the Council Meeting: A cutscene will play where the rulers discuss the crisis.
Some rulers may require specific actions or items to be convinced. For instance, Countess Hassildor's vampirism might necessitate a different approach than a standard ruler. The quest "The Vampire Cure" might be relevant if you encounter difficulties with him. For Countess Umbra, you might need to engage in combat or complete a task for her. Pay attention to dialogue for hints on how to best approach each individual.
Successfully completing "Kins of the Past" is crucial for advancing the main quest and securing the support needed to combat Mehrunes Dagon's invasion. The unity of the provincial rulers is a sificant step towards rallying the forces of Tamriel.