Tamriel in The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is a massive, vibrant world full of magic and madness. While there are plenty of noble groups out there protecting the people of Cyrodiil, some factions definitely have a darker side. If you’re feeling a little wicked, you can even join them and cause some chaos of your own.
But it’s not as simple as signing up at your local guild hall like you would with the Fighters or Mages Guild. The Dark Brotherhood keeps things a lot more secretive. Don’t worry, though — we’ll walk you through how to get in touch with them and start your journey into the shadows.
How To Get The Dark Brotherhood’s Attention
The Dark Brotherhood is an underground group of highly trained assassins, but you can’t just walk up and ask to join. If you want them to notice you, you’ll need to spill some blood — and not just any blood. Killing in self-defense doesn’t count, and taking out evil characters like necromancers won’t work either.
Here are a few easy targets to consider for your first “initiation” kill:
- The Adoring Fan: That annoying follower from the Arena can make a perfect first victim. Rent a room at an inn, shut the door, and take him out quietly to avoid getting a bounty.
- Any local beggar: Beggars are often overlooked and considered innocent, making them prime targets. Just know that the Thieves Guild won’t be thrilled if you kill one of their informants.
- A city guard: If you’re feeling bold, you can attack and kill a guard. But be warned — guards are tough, especially for lower-level players.
You’ll know you did it right when a message pops up saying that “forces unknown” have witnessed your crime.
Meeting Lucien Lachance
After you’ve committed a valid murder, the next time you sleep, a man named Lucien Lachance will appear at your bedside. He’ll tell you the Dark Brotherhood is interested in recruiting you — but first, you’ll need to prove yourself by killing a man named Rufio.
Lucien even gifts you a special dagger called the Blade of Woe to help you get the job done. How thoughtful!
Starting “A Knife In The Dark” Quest
Your target, Rufio, is hiding out at the Inn of Ill Omen, located south of Cyrodiil. Head to the inn, go inside, and use the trapdoor to reach the basement. Rufio’s room is easy to find — just look for the sleeping old man in the bed.
He’s weak and won’t put up a fight, so strike quickly. After Rufio is dead, sleep once more to meet Lucien again, who will then reveal the location of your new home: the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary.
(And yes, you can actually sleep in the same bed you killed Rufio in. If that’s your thing.)
How To Find The Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary
To officially join, make your way to Cheydinhal and find the abandoned house near the eastern wall. Pick the lock on the door, head to the basement, and pass through the broken wall.
There, you’ll find a large, eerie door with a skull on it. The door will ask, “What is the color of night?” — answer with the password Lucien gave you: “Sanguine, my brother.”
Once inside, you’ll be welcomed by Ocheeva, who will outfit you with new armor and give you your first set of instructions. Congrats — you’re now officially part of the Dark Brotherhood!
