Oblivion: Allies For Bruma & Kvatch Guide
Hey everyone, and welcome back to another deep dive into the world of Tamriel! Today, we're tackling a quest that can sometimes feel a bit like herding cats: finding allies for Bruma and Kvatch in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. This quest, officially known as 'Allies for Bruma', is a massive undertaking that requires you to rally the forces of Cyrodiil to defend against the Daedric invasion. It’s not just about smashing enemies; it’s about diplomacy, strategy, and sometimes, just plain persistence. So, grab your potions, sharpen your swords, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of assembling your army!
The Importance of Allies for Bruma and Kvatch
Alright guys, let's talk about why these allies for Bruma and Kvatch are so darn important. You see, when the Daedric invasion kicks off in Oblivion, it's not just a few scattered demons causing trouble. We're talking about a full-blown assault, and the forces of the Empire, while valiant, are spread pretty thin. The heart of the conflict, especially in the later stages of the main quest, hinges on the defense of Bruma, one of the key cities in the northern province. If you don't have enough help, things can get really dicey. Having a robust army isn't just about making the final battle easier; it's about roleplaying the hero Cyrodiil desperately needs. Imagine the Emperor himself calling on you to unite the land – it’s a big deal! Successfully recruiting these allies demonstrates your commitment to saving the province and shows the NPCs that you're not just some random adventurer, but a true leader. Plus, let's be honest, wading into battle with a bunch of skilled warriors, mages, and soldiers at your back feels way more epic than facing down hordes of Daedra by yourself. It impacts the narrative, influences the outcomes of major battles, and ultimately, makes your journey through Oblivion that much more rewarding. So, even if it seems like a hassle, rustling up these allies for Bruma and Kvatch is a crucial step in saving the day.
Gathering Allies: The Jarls of Skyrim
First up on our recruitment drive are the Jarls of Skyrim. These rugged northerners are a tough bunch, but their martial prowess is undeniable. To get them on your side, you'll need to head north to the frigid lands of Skyrim. The primary contact here is Jarl Korir of Winterhold. He's a proud and somewhat stubborn leader, and he won't just send his troops because you asked nicely. He believes that the dragons of old are returning, and his priority is the defense of his own people against this ancient threat. To convince him, you'll need to prove that you understand his concerns and that you're taking the dragon threat seriously. This usually involves some dialogue where you express your respect for his people's traditions and demonstrate that you're not just some Southerner meddling in Nordic affairs. Once you've gained his trust, he'll agree to send soldiers to Bruma.
But wait, there's more! Jarl Korir isn't the only one you can sway. You'll also need to deal with Jarl Balgruuf the Greater of Whiterun. He's generally more pragmatic than Korir, but he still has his own concerns about the ongoing Daedric invasion affecting his lands. His primary condition is usually related to the safety of his own hold and ensuring that his people aren't left vulnerable. You might need to complete a small task for him or simply engage in persuasive dialogue to secure his support. The key takeaway here, guys, is that these Jarls aren't just quest givers; they have their own motivations and fears. Understanding their perspective is crucial for successful recruitment. Don't just rush in demanding troops; listen to their worries, offer reassurances, and show them that their contribution to the defense of Bruma is vital for the security of all of Cyrodiil, and by extension, Skyrim. Getting these allies for Bruma and Kvatch means understanding the politics and pride of these Nordic rulers.
Recruiting the Count of Skingrad
Moving on, let's talk about securing the Count of Skingrad, Hassildor. Skingrad is known for its vineyards and its vampires, but more importantly, it’s a wealthy and well-defended city. Hassildor, like many rulers, is concerned about his own territory first. He's a shrewd negotiator and is initially reluctant to commit his forces to the defense of Bruma, fearing that it might leave Skingrad itself vulnerable. To convince him, you'll often need to engage in some persuasive dialogue. He values strength and practicality, so emphasizing how a unified defense benefits everyone, including Skingrad in the long run, is key.
There's a bit of a twist here, though. Hassildor has a secret: he's a vampire. While this doesn't directly prevent him from offering aid, it adds a layer of complexity. The questline involving Hassildor often intersects with the Dark Brotherhood and vampire-related quests, so be prepared for that. The main goal is to convince him that sending his soldiers is a necessary strategic move. He might ask for assurances about the safety of his city or express doubts about the Emperor's ability to hold the line. Your job is to be the voice of reason and determination, showing him that the threat is existential and that cooperation is the only path to survival. Successfully recruiting him means adding a significant contingent of experienced fighters to your cause. It’s another vital piece in the puzzle of assembling those allies for Bruma and Kvatch, proving that even the most isolationist or secretive rulers can be swayed when the stakes are high enough.
Securing the Aid of Leyawiin
Next up on our grand tour of Cyrodiil is the city of Leyawiin, and its ruler, Count Tejeterus. Leyawiin is a port city with a strong military presence, often bolstered by its proximity to Black Marsh. Tejeterus is generally more amenable to the idea of assisting Bruma than some of the other counts, but he still has his own concerns. He’s particularly worried about the ongoing Argonian incursions from Black Marsh, which strain his resources and attention. To gain his support for the defense of Bruma, you'll often need to address these concerns. Tejeterus might ask you to deal with some of the threats near Leyawiin, such as clearing out a nearby bandit camp or dealing with a particularly troublesome beast, to free up his own troops.
Alternatively, he might simply require some convincing dialogue, emphasizing the gravity of the Daedric invasion and how a loss in Bruma would embolden all enemies of Cyrodiil, including those from Black Marsh. It’s all about demonstrating that the greater good requires a united front. Tejeterus wants to see that you are a capable leader who can handle threats on multiple fronts. Successfully securing Leyawiin's forces means you're one step closer to having the numbers needed for the climactic battles. Remember, these allies for Bruma and Kvatch are earned through effort and understanding the unique challenges each region faces. Tejeterus’s cooperation is a testament to the fact that even amidst regional troubles, a common enemy can foster unity.
Rallying the Forces of Cheydinhal
Our journey continues to Cheydinhal, the city known for its unique architecture and its Count, Regan Daile. Cheydinhal, situated near the Niben Bay, has its own issues, often related to local banditry and the proximity to more volatile regions. Count Daile is a dutiful ruler, but he's also pragmatic. He’s concerned about the impact of diverting his soldiers so far north when his own city might face threats. To win his support for the Bruma defense, you'll typically need to engage in dialogue where you stress the urgency of the Daedric invasion. He might require some proof of the severity of the situation or ask for assurances that his contribution won't leave Cheydinhal defenseless.
Sometimes, this involves completing a task for him, like dealing with a troublesome bandit leader plaguing the nearby roads, thereby demonstrating your capability and willingness to help him directly. This not only earns his trust but also frees up some of his own soldiers. The key, guys, is to show these rulers that you're not just asking for help but are actively contributing to the security of their regions as well. It's a two-way street. Gaining Cheydinhal's military aid adds another valuable group of soldiers to your growing army, reinforcing the idea that every region's contribution is vital. These allies for Bruma and Kvatch are essential, and securing Daile's forces is a significant step in building the defense needed to push back Mehrunes Dagon's forces.
####### Convincing the Count of Chorrol
Next on our list is the noble Count of Chorrol, **Edouard}$. Chorrol is a prosperous city, and its Count is typically portrayed as a chivalrous figure, concerned with honor and duty. However, even noble counts have practical considerations. Edouard is often depicted as being more willing to help than some others, but he still needs to be convinced that the threat is severe enough to warrant sending his troops away from Chorrol. He might be concerned about the potential for Daedric incursions closer to his own city or simply want reassurance that his soldiers will be well-commanded and effectively utilized.
Your approach here should emphasize the existential threat to Cyrodiil and the Emperor's direct command. You might need to engage in persuasive dialogue, appealing to his sense of duty and honor. Sometimes, he might ask for a small favor, perhaps related to a local disturbance or a demonstration of your own martial skill, to ensure you're capable of leading the charge. The goal is to demonstrate that sending his soldiers to Bruma is not a reckless gamble, but a necessary strategic deployment under your capable leadership. Securing the Count of Chorrol’s aid provides another contingent of well-trained warriors, bolstering the ranks needed for the defense of Bruma. These allies for Bruma and Kvatch are more than just numbers; they represent the unified will of Cyrodiil against the Daedric menace.
######## Dealing with the Count of Anvil
Finally, we turn our attention to the westernmost city, Anvil, and its ruler, Count Maelius. Anvil, being a coastal city, often faces its own unique challenges, perhaps related to piracy or naval matters. Count Maelius, like his counterparts, is primarily concerned with the safety and stability of his own city. He might be hesitant to commit his forces to the defense of Bruma, fearing that it could leave Anvil exposed to opportunistic attacks or internal unrest. To gain his support, you'll need to address his specific concerns. This usually involves a combination of diplomacy and sometimes, a bit of action.
He might ask you to investigate a local threat, such as a ghost haunting the docks or a smuggling ring operating nearby, to prove your worth and alleviate his immediate worries. By handling these smaller crises, you demonstrate your capability and dedication to protecting Cyrodiil on all fronts. Once his immediate concerns are addressed, Maelius is often more willing to lend his military support to the larger cause. Successfully recruiting the Count of Anvil's forces provides the final piece of the puzzle, ensuring that the defense of Bruma is as well-staffed as possible. These allies for Bruma and Kvatch are a testament to your efforts in uniting the province, showcasing that no matter how far-flung or preoccupied, every region plays a role in the ultimate victory against the Daedric invasion.
The Grand Finale: Battle for Bruma
So, you've done it! You've traversed the breadth of Cyrodiil and Skyrim, persuaded haughty Jarls and pragmatic Counts, and rallied a respectable army. Now comes the moment of truth: the Battle for Bruma. This is where all your hard work pays off. With your assembled allies for Bruma and Kvatch, you'll face a massive Daedric onslaught. The more allies you've successfully recruited, the more formidable your defense will be. The battle itself is a significant event in the main quest, culminating in the defense of Bruma against overwhelming odds. It’s a true test of your leadership and the strength of the alliances you’ve forged. Make sure you're prepared – stock up on healing potions, repair your gear, and perhaps bring along a few of your most trusted companions. The fate of Cyrodiil rests on your shoulders, and with your diverse army at your side, you stand a much better chance of repelling the invasion and pushing back the forces of Mehrunes Dagon. This is the climax of your diplomatic efforts, the grand payoff for all the talking, traveling, and occasional fighting you've done to secure these crucial allies.