Introduction to Cyrodiil
Welcome to Cyrodiil, the heart of the Tamrielic Empire and the setting for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. As an escaped prisoner, you find yourself thrust into a land on the brink of chaos, with the Emperor assassinated and Oblivion gates tearing open rifts to a demonic realm. Your journey begins in the Imperial City, a sprawling metropolis that serves as the political and cultural center of the Empire.
Cyrodiil is a land of diverse landscapes, from the temperate forests and rolling hills of the central provinces to the rugged mountains of the north and the humid swamps of the south. The province is divided into nine distinct counties, each with its own capital city and unique characteristics. The main questline will guide you through many of these regions as you uncover the conspiracy behind the Emperor's death and the looming threat of the Daedric invasion.
The Imperial City
The Imperial City is the capital of the Empire and the starting point for many adventures. It's a massive, multi-layered city with distinct districts:
- Talos Plaza District: Home to the wealthy and influential, featuring grand manors.
- Elven Gardens District: A more serene area with elegant architecture.
- Arboretum District: Contains the Arboretum and the Imperial Gardens.
- Temple District: Houses the Temple of the One and various religious institutions.
- Waterfront District: A bustling port area with docks, taverns, and the Thieves Guild headquarters.
- Arena District: Where gladiatorial combat takes place.
- Market District: The commercial heart of the city, filled with shops and vendors.
- Arcane University: The center of magical learning and research.
Key Factions and Organizations
Cyrodiil is home to several powerful factions that offer quests, unique rewards, and opportunities for character development:
- The Blades: The Emperor's personal bodyguards and intelligence agency, crucial to the main quest.
- Fighters Guild: A mercenary organization offering combat-focused quests.
- Mages Guild: A scholarly institution for those who practice magic.
- Thieves Guild: A clandestine organization specializing in stealth and larceny.
- Dark Brotherhood: A shadowy guild of assassins.
The Oblivion Crisis
The primary threat in Oblivion is the Oblivion Crisis, a Daedric invasion orchestrated by the Daedric Prince Mehrunes Dagon. Oblivion gates, fiery portals to the Daedric realm, begin to appear across Cyrodiil, spewing forth demons and causing widespread destruction. Your ultimate goal is to close these gates and prevent the full invasion of Tamriel.
As you explore Cyrodiil, you'll encounter several NPCs, from common citizens to powerful mages and warriors. Engaging with them, undertaking their quests, and making choices will shape your experience and the fate of the province. Be prepared for a world filled with danger, intrigue, and the ever-present threat of the forces of Oblivion.