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|inhabitants =
 
|inhabitants =
 
|era = [[First Era]]–[[Fourth Era]]
 
|era = [[First Era]]–[[Fourth Era]]
|affiliation = [[Colovian Estates]]<br />[[Akatosh Chantry]]<br />[[House of Dibella]]<br />[[Order of the Hour]]<br />[[Red Sails]]/[[Red Sabre]]<br />[[Dark Brotherhood]]<br />[[Gold Coast Trading Company]]<br />[[All Flags Navy]]<br />[[Long Tooth Tribe]]<br />[[Sharp Stick Tribe]]<br />[[Alessian Empire]]<br />[[Septim Empire]]
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|affiliation = [[Colovian Estates]]<br />[[Akatosh Chantry]]<br />[[House of Dibella]]<br />[[Order of the Hour]]<br />[[Red Sails]]/[[Red Sabre]]<br />[[Dark Brotherhood]]<br />[[Gold Coast Trading Company (Faction)|Gold Coast Trading Company]]<br />[[All Flags Navy]]<br />[[Long Tooth Tribe]]<br />[[Sharp Stick Tribe]]<br />[[Alessian Empire]]<br />[[Septim Empire]]
 
}}
 
}}
{{Quote|The Gold Coast serves as a wonderful destination for travelers that seek the most interesting sights in Cyrodiil and enjoy the fine weather and sandy yellow beaches of Anvil. With bright sun and clear waves, the Gold Coast enjoys a pleasant climate fueled by warmer currents from the Abecean Sea. We offer a verdant paradise perfect for a hearty sort looking for true adventure on a reasonable budget.|[[Authors (Online)|Astinia Isauricus]]|Gold Coast Guide, Part One}}
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{{Quote|The Gold Coast serves as a wonderful destination for travelers that seek the most interesting sights in Cyrodiil and enjoy the fine weather and sandy yellow beaches of Anvil. With bright sun and clear waves, the Gold Coast enjoys a pleasant climate fueled by warmer currents from the Abecean Sea. We offer a verdant paradise perfect for a hearty sort looking for true adventure on a reasonable budget.|[[Astinia Isauricus]]|Gold Coast Guide, Part One}}
The '''Gold Coast''' or the '''Strident Coast''' is the western savannah coast of the [[Colovian West]], within the province of [[Cyrodiil]]. The Gold Coast takes its name from the lush, golden grasslands that stretch the coast from the [[Brena River]] to the [[Strid River]]. Most the settlements found in the land are farmlands, between the twin city-states of [[Kvatch]] and [[Anvil]].
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The '''Gold Coast''' or the '''Strident Coast''' is the western coast of the [[Colovian West]] within the province of [[Cyrodiil]]. The Gold Coast takes its name from the golden grasslands that stretch along the coast from the [[Brena River]] to the [[Strid River]]. Most the settlements found in the land are farmlands in between [[Kvatch]] and [[Anvil]].
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==By game==
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*[[Gold Coast (Oblivion)]]
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*[[Gold Coast (Online)]]
   
 
==Description==
 
==Description==
 
===Geography===
 
===Geography===
 
====Western Gold Coast====
 
====Western Gold Coast====
[[File: Garlas Malatar (Online).png|thumb|250px|Garlas Malatar is an ancient city dedicated to Meridia, Daedric Prince of Infinite Energies.]]
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[[File:Garlas Malatar (Online).png|thumb|250px|Garlas Malatar]]
The Western Gold Coast consists of the beaches of the region, which goes between the estuaries of both the [[Strid River]] and the [[Brena River]]. Most of the Gold Coast's activity comes from this area, as the city-state of [[Anvil]] is situated along the central bay. Underneath Anvil city is the [[Smuggler's Cave]], where many Counts and Pirate Lords of Anvil have used as either their treasury or an escape route. The ruined Ayleid city of [[Garlas Malatar]] is found on the coast, on the outskirts of Anvil. It is also the westernmost Ayleid ruin in all of Cyrodiil. The majority of [[County Anvil]] is found along the coast, which continues into the Brena.
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The western Gold Coast consists of the beaches between the estuaries of the [[Strid River]] and the [[Brena River]]. Most of the Gold Coast's activity occurs in this area as [[Anvil]] is situated along the central bay. The majority of [[County Anvil]] is found along the coast. Underneath Anvil is the [[Smuggler's Cave]], which many counts and pirate lords of Anvil have used as either a treasury or an escape route. The westernmost [[Ayleid ruin]] in Cyrodiil, [[Garlas Malatar]], is found on the coast on the outskirts of Anvil.
 
<hr />
 
   
 
====Eastern Gold Coast====
 
====Eastern Gold Coast====
[[File: Varen's Wall Gatehouse.png|thumb|250px|Varen's Wall was created to separate the Inner Gold Coast from the warring Imperial Province.]]
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[[File:Varen's Wall Gatehouse.png|thumb|250px|Varen's Wall]]
The Eastern Gold Coast is the central heartlands of the region, with the city-state of [[Kvatch]] nestled atop the hills overlooking the entire land. The Eastern area is heavily religious, with the [[Akatosh Chantry]] and the [[Order of the Hour]] having a strong presence in the area. Much of the land is primarily used in agriculture, specifically around the Kvatch outskirts. But the city of Kvatch is the main focal point, with the [[Kvatch Arena]] being the main attraction of the Eastern Gold Coast. The [[Dark Brotherhood]] also has a significant presence in the area, with two known sanctuaries in the area. The majority of [[County Kvatch]] is found in this region.
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The eastern Gold Coast is the central heartlands of western Cyrodiil. Much of the land is agricultural, especially around the outskirts of [[Kvatch]] which sits atop hills that overlook the entire area. This region is heavily religious, with the [[Akatosh Chantry]] and the [[Order of the Hour]] having a strong presence here. The [[Kvatch Arena]] is the main attraction of the eastern Gold Coast. The [[Dark Brotherhood]] also has a significant presence in the area, with two known sanctuaries in the area. The majority of [[County Kvatch]] lies within here.
 
<hr />
 
   
 
====Outer Gold Coast====
 
====Outer Gold Coast====
[[File: Fort Sutch.png|thumb|250px|Fort Sutch was once a city-state of Cyrodiil, before falling into disrepair.]]
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[[File:Fort Sutch.png|thumb|250px|Fort Sutch]]
The Outer Gold Coast refers to the land outside of [[Varen's Wall]], which was built amidst the [[Colovian Revolt]] during the [[Interregnum]]. While the wall is no longer present, it is still applicable to the area. This region is largely uninhabited, with the only settlement being the obscure city-state of [[Sutch]], not far from the northern gatehouse. The ruins of [[Niryastare]] is the only other notable landmark in the region, but among them, are wildlands inhabited by Daedric Cultists at the [[Statue of Malacath]], and various bandit encampments and redoubts moving northward. Most of [[County Sutch]] can be found here, but the scope is largely unknown.
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The outer Gold Coast refers to the land outside of [[Varen's Wall (Location)|Varen's Wall]] which was built during the [[Colovian Revolt]]. This region is largely uninhabited and the only settlement is [[Sutch]] which is not far from the northern gatehouse. The ruins of [[Niryastare]] is the only other notable landmark in the region. The wildlands are inhabited by Daedric cultists at the [[Statue of Malacath]], and there are various bandit encampments and redoubts moving northward. Most of [[County Sutch]] can be found here.
 
<hr />
 
   
 
===Fauna===
 
===Fauna===
====Dire Wolves====
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====Notable fauna====
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=====Dire Wolves=====
[[File: ESO Dire Wolf.png|thumb|250px|The Dire Wolves are represented in Kvatch's banner, and are common in the Abecean.]]
 
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[[File:ESO Dire Wolf.png|thumb|250px|Dire Wolf]]
The [[Dire Wolf|Dire Wolves]] of the Gold Coast are a much stronger variant of the typical [[Wolf]] found throughout the continent. Depending on the region, the Dire Wolf do not live in packs; they are found in isolation because they are more than capable of hunting by themselves, and being ferocious when the time calls for it. Taming a Dire Wolf is much more difficult to do, considering their wild nature and independence, but the city-state of Kvatch has been known to breed such creatures as mounts or battle pets. If they are hungry enough, they will eat you, regardless of your companionship. They are also intelligent creatures, known for having a long memory. If it shows contempt, it is best to show respect and acknowledge it. They are predators by nature and can be stubborn. If they continue to hate, then just kill them. But do not do it around a mate, or they will hate you too, understandably.<ref>''[[Guide to Taming Dire Wolves]]''</ref>
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The [[Dire Wolf|Dire Wolves]] of the Gold Coast are a much stronger variant of the typical [[Wolf]] found throughout the continent. Unlike regular wolves who hunt in packs, dire wolves are typically solitary predators. Taming a dire wolf is much more difficult to do, but citizens of Kvatch have been known to use such creatures as mounts or as auxiliary units. They are also intelligent creatures and are known for having a long memory, but they do not grasp the use of magic. Like pet dogs, they enjoy having their bellies scratched.<ref>''[[Guide to Taming Dire Wolves]]''</ref>
   
====Goblins====
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=====Goblins=====
The [[Goblin]]s of the Gold Coast have an interesting history, in a story of alliances and a united group. As of [[2E 583]], there have been two main tribes, the [[Long Tooth Tribe]], who claim the northern land near [[Knightsgrave]] and the ruins of [[Sutch]], while the [[Sharp Stick Tribe]], who claim the southern hills around the [[Strid River]]. Long ago, the Long Tooth consisted of three tribes, the [[Long Claws]], the [[Tooth Rocks]], and the [[Rock Sticks]], the two formers were originally from the [[Colovian Highlands]] near [[Chorrol]], warring against each other, but were driven out by the [[Fighters Guild]] and into the Gold Coast. It was here, the two tribes saw the Rock Sticks as a common enemy, and fought against the populous tribe. Eventually, the three tribes banded together as the Long Tooth, claiming northern Anvil County. The Sharp Stick is a mishmash of various tribes. The stories go as such: ''"The Eye Sticks fought the Sharp Rocks, who tricked the Shatter Bones into attacking the Blood Skulls. However, the mortal enemies of the Blood Skulls were the Gut Blades, who ambushed Shatter Bones and Blood Skull alike. When the Sharp Rocks and Eye Sticks saw the three-sided battle among rival tribes, they briefly allied to conquer the others."'' In one way or the other, the tribes became the Sharp Stick. It was considered only a matter of time before there was the hypothetical, ''"Long Stick Tribe"''.<ref>''[[Gold Coast Goblin Tribes]]''</ref><ref name="Children">''[[A Gold Coast Children's Bestiary]]''</ref>
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The [[Goblin]]s of the Gold Coast have a history of alliances forming a united group. As of [[2E 583]], there were two main tribes, the [[Long Tooth Tribe]] who claimed the northern land near [[Knightsgrave]] and the ruins of [[Sutch]], while the [[Sharp Stick Tribe]] claimed the southern hills around the [[Strid River]]. Long ago, the Long Tooth consisted of three tribes, the [[Long Claws]], the [[Tooth Rocks]], and the [[Rock Sticks]]. The Long Claws and the Tooth Rocks were originally from the [[Colovian Highlands]] near [[Chorrol]] and warred against each other and they were eventually driven out by the [[Fighters Guild]] and into the Gold Coast. It was here that the two tribes saw the Rock Sticks as a common enemy and fought against that populous tribe. Eventually, the three tribes banded together as the Long Tooth, claiming northern Anvil County. The Sharp Stick tribe is an amalgamation of various smaller tribes, The [[Eye Sticks]], the [[Sharp Rocks]], the [[Shatter Bones]], the [[Blood Skulls]] and the [[Gut Blades]] that coalesced after significant internecine warfare.<ref>''[[Gold Coast Goblin Tribes]]''</ref><ref name="Children">''[[A Gold Coast Children's Bestiary]]''</ref>
   
====River Troll====
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=====River Troll=====
[[File: ESO River Troll.png|thumb|250px|River Trolls are elusive, not recorded in the Imperial Register of Beasts and Lower Beings.]]
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[[File:ESO River Troll.png|thumb|250px|River Troll]]
The [[Troll]] is a common creature throughout the provinces, albeit secluded in caves and isolated locations (i.e. a mountain pass or a clearing). There are several variants depending on the environment, such as the [[Frost Troll]] in the province of [[Skyrim]], or the [[Swamp Troll]] in the deep region of the [[Nibenay Basin]]. But among these, the most obscure and elusive are the [[River Troll]], which are found in the riverways of Cyrodiil, primarily the [[Niben River]] and the twin rivers of the Gold Coast. The River Troll are hunted in the city-state of [[Sutch]], where their carcasses are considered valuable. They resemble the typical Troll, but their hide is silver-blue in color, with water-shedding scales. Their fangs and claws are designed to primarily hunt fish, as their hands have webbing and their teeth are razor sharp for even toughest of fish. Like other Trolls, they live in caves and hidden alcoves, but they eat things such as common river fish, to [[Mudcrab]] and even [[Crocodile]].<ref name="Children"/><ref>''[[Field Guide to River Trolls]]''</ref>
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The [[Troll]] is a common creature throughout the provinces, usually found in secluded caves and isolated locations. There are several variants depending on the environment, such as the [[Frost Troll]] in the province of [[Skyrim]], or the [[Swamp Troll]] in the deep region of the [[Nibenay Basin]]. The [[River Troll]] variant is found in the riverways of Cyrodiil, primarily the [[Niben River]] and the twin rivers of the Gold Coast. River Trolls are hunted in the county of [[Sutch]], where their carcasses are considered valuable. They resemble the typical Troll, but their hide is scaled and silver-blue in color. Their bodies have several river hunting adaptations including fangs and claws to hunt fish, webbed hands and razor sharp teeth. Like other trolls, they live in caves and hidden alcoves, but their diet typically consists of common river fish, [[Mudcrab]]s, and even [[Crocodile]]s.<ref name="Children"/><ref>''[[Field Guide to River Trolls]]''</ref>
   
====Nixad====
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=====Nixad=====
The [[Nixad]] are mischievous humanoid incest that lives primarily in the [[Colovian West]], originally living in the region of the [[Great Forest]], before migrating into the Gold Coast. The Nixad is reminiscent of the [[Faerie]], more specifically, the [[Pixies]] of Hammerfell. They live all throughout the savannah, in glades and meadows throughout the Coast. They take pleasure in other people's pain, known to laugh and mock those in obvious irritation. According to some folktales, the Nixad like to pluck the eyes of children and roll them in piles of [[Moon Sugar]], to eat them. The only way to prevent this is to distract them, humiliating the possible victim. But despite their cruel nature, they can be loyal and friendly pets. A unique type of Nixad, the [[Orchid Nixad]] are revered by worshippers of [[Dibella]], being found in places that worship the Goddess of Beauty, a place like the Chapel of Dibella in Anvil. Supposedly, [[Empress Tavia]] had an Orchid Nixad during her imprisonment at [[Castle Giovesse]] in the city-state of [[Gideon]].<ref name="Children"/><ref>''[[A Nixad Made Me Do It]]''</ref>
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The [[Nixad]] are mischievous humanoid insects that live primarily in the [[Colovian West]], originally living in the region of the [[Great Forest]], before migrating into the Gold Coast. The Nixad is reminiscent of the [[Faerie]], more specifically, the [[Pixies]] of Hammerfell. They live in glades and meadows throughout the Gold Coast. They take pleasure in other people's pain and are known to laugh and mock those in obvious irritation. According to some folktales, the Nixad like to pluck the eyes of children and roll them in piles of [[Moon Sugar]] and eat them. The only way to prevent this is to distract them by humiliating the possible victim. Despite their cruel nature, they can be loyal and friendly pets. A unique type of Nixad, the [[Orchid Nixad]], are revered by worshippers of [[Dibella]] and they can be found in places that worship her such as the Chapel of Dibella in Anvil..<ref name="Children"/><ref>''[[A Nixad Made Me Do It]]''</ref>
   
====Minotaur====
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=====Minotaur=====
[[File: ESO Minotaur.png|thumb|Minotaurs are a beastfolk that represent St. Alessia's time.]]
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[[File:ESO Minotaur.png|thumb|Minotaur]]
The [[Minotaur]] are a type of [[beastfolk]] found in the province of [[Cyrodiil]], a common beastfolk in the Empire, albeit more tribal and aggressive than the [[Orsimer]] of the Greater Reach. The Minotaurs are also known as ''Man-Bulls'', for they are half-[[men]] and half-[[bull]]. The most well-known Minotaur is [[Belharza]], the son of [[St. Alessia]], and the second [[Emperor]] of the [[First Empire]]. Minotaurs are large and hulking when compared to the Imperials of the First Empire. They were devouts of St. Alessia and had upheld this in some ways, even when they were shunned by the [[Alessian Order]] amidst their dysphoria, which was not exclusive to the [[Elves]]. Minotaurs in the Gold Coast live near ruins, but primarily the ruins of [[Knightsgrave]], which is a mausoleum to the [[Order of the Hour]], but it is a site of worship for [[Akatosh]] to the Alessian Empire. Minotaurs live in tribes throughout Cyrodiil, being driven out into the frontier of the Empire, with records of their role in society wiped by the malcontent. The Minotaurs have a unique type of armor, with aspects of a barbaric nature, but with nodes to the Alessian Empire, and their representation, in the form of Belharza and [[Morihaus]]. Even though they are shunned in modern-day society, the people of the modern age have recognized their once illustrious past in the early first era. Despite the abundance of male Minotaurs, there are, in fact, female Minotaurs.<ref name="Children"/><ref>''[[On Minotaurs]]''</ref><ref>''[[Crafting Motif 39: Minotaur Style]]''</ref><ref>''[[Brenus Astis' Journal]]''</ref>
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The [[Minotaur]] is a type of [[beastfolk]] found in the Gold Coast and a common type of beastfolk in the Empire. They are more tribal and aggressive than the [[Orsimer]] of the Greater Reach. The Minotaurs are also known as ''Man-Bulls'' after their physiology. Minotaurs have large and hulking bodies as compared to man and mer. Despite the abundance of male Minotaurs, there are, in fact, female Minotaurs. The most well-known Minotaur was [[Belharza]], the second [[Emperor]] of the [[First Empire]] and the son of [[St. Alessia]] and [[Morihaus]]. Minotaurs were devouts of St. Alessia and upheld this in some ways even when they were shunned by the [[Alessian Order]] during their persecution of non-humans. Minotaurs in the Gold Coast live near ruins, primarily the ruins of [[Knightsgrave]], which is a mausoleum belonging to the [[Order of the Hour]] and a site of worship for [[Akatosh]] during the Alessian Empire. Minotaurs have a unique type of armor, partly barbaric in design but with Alessian influences. Even though they are shunned in modern-day society, people of the modern age have recognized their once illustrious past in the early first era. <ref name="Children"/><ref>''[[On Minotaurs]]''</ref><ref>''[[Crafting Motif 39: Minotaur Style]]''</ref><ref>''[[Brenus Astis' Journal]]''</ref>
   
====Miscellaneous Creatures====
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====Other fauna====
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The following fauna can also be encountered in the Gold Coast:
 
<div style="{{column-count|2}}">
 
<div style="{{column-count|2}}">
 
*[[Antelope]]
 
*[[Antelope]]
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===Flora===
 
===Flora===
[[File: Gold Coast (Online) Daylight.png|thumb|250px|The golden-colored savannah is the namesake for the region, the Gold Coast.]]
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[[File:Gold Coast (Online) Daylight.png|thumb|250px|The Gold Coast savannah.]]
The region of the Gold Coast has its name from the golden-colored grassland that stretches between the [[Brena River]] and the [[Strid River]], though to be frank, this grassland goes beyond the region, primarily into the north from the [[Colovian Highlands]], as far as the ruins of [[Lipsand Tarn]], near the [[Jerall Mountains]]. The Gold Coast consists mainly of low mountains and rocky highlands, amidst a light forest the more east of the [[Gold Road]]. The trees in the region consist of oak, beech, and ash, all of which are utilized in Imperial Equipment and Construction, especially from Colovia, whose one of main productions is lumbering. But among the light woodlands, there are unique types of flora. Throughout the ruins of [[Garlas Malatar]] and other Ayleid ruins, grows a unique flower called the [[Wyrd Flower]], which only comes from the moonlight. The [[Water Hyacinth]] is rather common in the Gold Coast, found on the southern point of the region near the Strid River. One of the most abundant of flora found in the Gold Coast is the [[Aloe Vera]], which are in fact, is mostly the only place in Cyrodiil to find Aloe Vera Leaves. More inland can be found, the [[Goldenrod]], [[Lady's Mantle]], and [[Fennel]].<ref>''[[Gold Coast Guide, Part One]]''</ref>
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The region of the Gold Coast takes its name from the gold colored grassland{{Conf}} that stretches between the [[Brena River]] and the [[Strid River]]. The grassland then extends beyond the region into the north from the [[Colovian Highlands]] and as far as the ruins of [[Lipsand Tarn]]. The trees in the region consist of oak, beech, and ash, all of which are utilized in Imperial manufacturing and construction, especially in Colovia. The [[Water Hyacinth]] is common in the Gold Coast and found in the southern point of the region near the Strid River. One of the most abundant of flora found in the Gold Coast is the [[Aloe Vera]] in contrast to their being unavailable elsewhere in Cyrodiil. The [[Goldenrod]], [[Lady's Mantle]], and [[Fennel]] can be found further inland. A unique flower called the [[Wyrd Flower]] grows in the ruins of [[Garlas Malatar]] and other Ayleid ruins in the area.<ref name="Coast 1">''[[Gold Coast Guide, Part One]]''</ref>
   
===Government===
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==Government==
[[File: TESIV Seal Anvil.png|thumb|250px|The city-state of Anvil is one of the two counties of the Gold Coast.]]
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[[File:TESIV Seal Anvil.png|thumb|250px|Seal of County Anvil]]
 
{{Quote|At the height of Alessian influence, its western arm enjoyed a brief autonomy as the Colovian Estates, a demarcation that still colors an outsider's view of the Empire today; often, Cyrodiil has two faces, East and West, and any discussion of its later social history must first be tempered with a summary of this early divergence.|[[Imperial Geographic Society]]|Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil}}
 
{{Quote|At the height of Alessian influence, its western arm enjoyed a brief autonomy as the Colovian Estates, a demarcation that still colors an outsider's view of the Empire today; often, Cyrodiil has two faces, East and West, and any discussion of its later social history must first be tempered with a summary of this early divergence.|[[Imperial Geographic Society]]|Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil}}
The province of Cyrodiil is the political heartlands of Tamriel, the capital of the province is considered the seat of power for the entire continent. But beyond the Empires, Cyrodiil is a very organized country as seen with the [[Counties]] from the west coast, to the south river and even the northward mountains. The Gold Coast houses three distinct counties, the Counties of Anvil, Kvatch, and Sutch. Each of these are ruled by a [[Count]]/[[Countess]], who have earned the role either hereditary or through the people's choice. But because the Gold Coast contains three different bodies of government, there is no discernable capital, but the region itself is tied with the city-state of Anvil. But the Counties of the Gold Coast are a part of a larger group, but not the Empire. The [[Colovian Estates]] are an autonomous government that spreads from Anvil, all the while to the Nordic city-state of [[Falkreath]]. The [[Colovian]] people are strong and hardy, a working people that are much more active than their noble cousins of the [[Nibenay]]. Historically, the Gold Coast is a part of the Colovian Estates, but the region itself has had a unique history than the rest of the province.<ref name="1st Cyrodiil"/><ref>''[[Remanada]]''</ref>
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Cyrodiil is a well-organized country, with subdivisions called [[Counties]] partitioning the whole. The Gold Coast houses three distinct counties: Anvil, Kvatch, and Sutch. Each of these are ruled by a [[count]] or [[countess]] who rules by either hereditary accession or through the people's choice. The Gold Coast itself is a geographic indicator and not a political one, so the region does not have a political center or regional ruler. The [[Colovian Estates]] were an autonomous government that spread from Anvil to [[Falkreath]]. The [[Colovian]] people are strong and hardy, a working people that are much more active than those of the [[Nibenay]].<ref name="1st Cyrodiil"/><ref>''[[Remanada]]''</ref>
   
 
==Religion==
During the reign of the [[Nede]]s, the city-state of Kvatch was the capital of the region, ruled by three lords, one of them being a King. But when the Cyro-Nords had taken over the area, the Nedic hierarchy was gone, but even then, Kvatch was the seat of a mighty Kingdom. One that continued well into the [[Alessian Empire]], during the reign of [[Gorieus]]. As time went on, the city of Anvil was the seat of a Kingdom, as seen with [[Bendu Olo]], King of Anvil. Eventually, all three towns became County seats. When [[Varen's Wall]] was constructed, the region of the Gold Coast was marked independent, with Anvil being the capital. The Governor, [[Fortunata ap Dugal]] had taken control over Kvatch, by force, which became known as the [[Gottshaw Massacre]]. But even that ended in due time, and the Gold Coast was a part of the Colovian Estates. As of now, the cities of the Gold Coast are all the center of their own respective Counties, all throughout the [[Septim Dynasty]]. It has remained this way ever since.<ref name="1st Cyrodiil"/><ref name="Faleria"/><ref name="Rislav"/><ref name="Queen"/>
 
 
[[File:Akatosh Stained Glass.png|thumb|150px|Akatosh]]
 
{{Quote|Akatosh is the chief deity of the Nine Divines (the major religious cult of Cyrodiil and its provinces), and one of two deities found in every Tamrielic religion (the other is Lorkhan). He is generally considered to be the first of the Gods to form in the Beginning Place; after his establishment, other spirits found the process of being easier and the various pantheons of the world emerged.|[[Mikhael Karkuxor]]|Varieties of Faith in the Empire}}
 
The Empire has established the worship of the [[Nine Divines]] as the main religion in all of the provinces and it is a combination and generalization of several different pantheons. In the Gold Coast, the most prominent divine is [[Akatosh]], the Dragon God of Time and Chief Deity of the Nine Divines. Kvatch has been historically known as a city of Akatosh, with the [[Cathedral of Akatosh]] having great significance in County Kvatch. The [[Akatosh Chantry]] is the main cult of Akatosh worship and it has chapters throughout the Empire, including in [[Wayrest]] and [[Bergama]]. Akatosh played a prominent role in the [[Oblivion Crisis]] in [[3E 433]], when [[Martin Septim]] sacrificed himself to serve as the Avatar of Akatosh and cast [[Mehrunes Dagon]] back into [[Oblivion]]. The [[Order of the Hour]] is the military arm of the Chantry and they enforced the will of the Chantry. They had a significant role in the Gold Coast during the Interregnum and it is common knowledge that the Akatosh Chantry are enemies of [[House of Dibella]].
   
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The House of Dibella is the central cult that worships [[Dibella]], the Goddess of Beauty and Love. She is one of the more popular ones, with devotees from as far as [[Markarth]] and [[Tigonus]]. Anvil is the center of Dibella worship in Cyrodiil and the [[Chapel of Dibella]] sits in Eastern Anvil.
===Religion===
 
[[File: Akatosh Stained Glass.png|thumb|150px|Akatosh is the God of Time & Chief Deity of the Divines.]]
 
{{Quote|Akatosh is the chief deity of the Nine Divines (the major religious cult of Cyrodiil and its provinces), and one of two deities found in every Tamrielic religion (the other is Lorkhan). He is generally considered to be the first of the Gods to form in the Beginning Place; after his establishment, other spirits found the process of being easier and the various pantheons of the world emerged.|[[Authors#Brother Mikhael Karkuxor|Mikhael Karkuxor]]|Varieties of Faith in the Empire}}
 
The Empires of Cyrodiil has established the worship of the [[Nine Divines]] as the prime religion in all of the provinces. It is a combination and generalized version of the several unique pantheons of Tamriel. In the Gold Coast, the most prominent divine is [[Akatosh]], the Dragon God of Time and Chief Deity of the Nine Divines. The city-state of Kvatch has been historically known as a city of Akatosh, with the [[Cathedral of Akatosh]] having immense significance in County Kvatch. The [[Akatosh Chantry]] is the prime cult of Akatosh worship, with chapters throughout the Empire, in places such as [[Wayrest]] and [[Bergama]]. Akatosh had played a prominent role in the [[Oblivion Crisis]] in [[3E 433]], where [[Martin Septim]] had sacrificed himself to serve as the Avatar of Akatosh, casting [[Mehrunes Dagon]] back into [[Oblivion]]. The [[Order of the Hour]] is the militant arm of the Chantry, enforcing the will of both the Chantry and the Great Dragon. They had a significant role in the Gold Coast, during the Interregnum. It is common knowledge that the Akatosh Chantry are enemies of House of Dibella, which is ironic considering they are based in Anvil. Akatosh has many unique artifacts, which includes the [[Amulet of Kings]] and the [[Cuirass of the Crusader]].
 
   
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==Culture==
The [[House of Dibella]] is the central cult that worships [[Dibella]], the Goddess of Beauty and Love. She is one of the more popular ones, with devotees from as far as [[Markarth]] and [[Tigonus]]. The city-state of Anvil has been the center of Dibella worship in Cyrodiil, as the [[Chapel of Dibella]] sits in Eastern Anvil. The House of Dibella are seekers of enlightenment through beauty and love. Dibella is actually a universally praised goddess, being known as the Bed-Wife of [[Shor]] in the Nordic religion, and even influencing the people of the [[Kothringi]], within the province of [[Black Marsh]]. Dibella teaches her followers to love and finding inspiration through friendship and kinship. The House of Dibella is led by a figure known as the Sibyl, a person chosen by the order to speak Dibella's will. Dibella has several artifacts, which includes the [[Brush of Truepaint]] and the [[Helm of the Crusader]].
 
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The Gold Coast is rich in culture and the County of Anvil is a retreat that many nobles go to, similar to the [[Kingdom of Sentinel]] in the north. The markets are always in stock with exotic wares and the delicacies of Anvil are served in many exquisite restaurants from Eastgate and Westgate. The beaches, however, are the primary focus of Anvil's tourists. Cozy cottages dot the beach for those who could not afford the villas that nobles sleep in. Kvatch was a place of worship and reflection with the [[Cathedral of Akatosh]] prominent in the city square. The [[Kvatch Arena]] was another attraction with warriors from all over pitted against various enemies. It was the only arena in Cyrodiil other than the one in the [[Imperial City]], the latter of which still stands. On the [[Gold Road]] between Anvil and Kvatch is a series of private estates and isolated inns such as the historical [[Gottshaw Inn (Oblivion)|Gottshaw Inn]] or [[Lord Drad's Estate]].<ref name="Coast 2"/>
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  +
==Economy==
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[[File:East empire sign.png|thumb|300px|East Empire Company Logo]]
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{{Quote|Travelers from all over come to take advantage of the wonderful open air markets, filled with curiosities and delicacies from across Tamriel. Others come to dine at the many fine eateries. Still others frolic on the sandy beaches and swim the clear waters of the Abecean Sea. While the city has many luxurious accommodations for noble families and those of means, some of the citizenry also cater to visitors with a smaller purse, offering guest rooms in their own cozy, beach-front cottages.|[[Astinia Isauricus]]|Gold Coast Guide, Part Two}}
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Anvil is a prominent port receiving goods from ships plying the [[Abecean Sea]] that are bound for Cyrodiil. As such, the County of Anvil has been a branch location for both the [[East Empire Company]] and the [[Gold Coast Trading Company (Faction)|Gold Coast Trading Company]]. Both companies also benefited from the [[Imperial Navy]] being stationed in Anvil to protect them from pirate activity on the Abecean Sea. Inland, lumber is a major trade. Anvil Harbor is also a place of rest for passing sailors that move throughout the Abecean and reside in [[The Fo'c's'le]]. [[Skooma]] runs in the Gold Coast are also smuggled through Anvil Port until they enter the rest of the province.<ref name="Coast 1">''[[Gold Coast Guide, Part One]]''</ref><ref name="Coast 2">''[[Gold Coast Guide, Part Two]]''</ref><ref>''[[:File:Shipping map.png|East Empire Company Shipping Map (c. 4E 201)]]''</ref><ref>''[[Guide to Anvil]]''</ref>
   
 
==History==
 
==History==
 
===[[First Era]]===
 
===[[First Era]]===
====Amidst the Alessian Empire; the Nedic & Colovian Gold Coast====
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====The Alessian Empire====
[[File: 1st Edition Cyrodiil.gif|thumb|250px|The Nedes had controlled the Gold Coast from Kvatch, but were thwarted by the Colovians.]]
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[[File:1st Edition Cyrodiil.gif|thumb|250px|First Era Map of the Gold Coast]]
 
{{Quote|The West is respected as Cyrodiil's iron hand: firm, unwavering, and ever-vigilant. The Cyro-Nords that settled it had relinquished the fertile Nibenay Valley long ago, determined to conquer the frontier. Their primitive ferocity was disinclined to magic or the need for industry, preferring bloody engagement and plunder instead. After they had captured the Nedic port-cities of the Strident coast, the Westerners embarked on a mastery of the sea.|[[Imperial Geographic Society]]|Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil}}
 
{{Quote|The West is respected as Cyrodiil's iron hand: firm, unwavering, and ever-vigilant. The Cyro-Nords that settled it had relinquished the fertile Nibenay Valley long ago, determined to conquer the frontier. Their primitive ferocity was disinclined to magic or the need for industry, preferring bloody engagement and plunder instead. After they had captured the Nedic port-cities of the Strident coast, the Westerners embarked on a mastery of the sea.|[[Imperial Geographic Society]]|Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil}}
As many know, the [[Ayleid]]s migrated to the modern-day province of Cyrodiil, where they expanded their Kingdom from the east and west, one of those settlements, was the city-state of [[Garlas Malatar]], a temple-city dedicated to [[Meridia]], the [[Daedric Prince]] of Infinite Energies. But in [[1E 243]], the Nedic slaves, under the command of [[Saint Alessia]] conquered their land and established the [[First Empire]]. Their people spread across the land, amidst their conquest, the modern-day cities of Cyrodiil were founded. In the Gold Coast, the Nedes built towns all across the Western Gold Coast, which could have very well led to the creation of [[Anvil]]. The Nedic Kingdom of the Strident Coast had ruled out of the city-state of [[Kvatch]], where the entire land was governed by three lords, one of them being the King. This continued for several years until the arrival of the [[Colovian]]s, Imperial Westerners who hail from the city-states of [[Skingrad]] and [[Chorrol]]. The Colovians had overwhelmed the Strident Nedes and took over their land, thus bringing the Gold Coast into the [[Colovian Estates]] and exploring the unconquered waters of the [[Abecean Sea]]. The Estates are an autonomous government which consists of West Cyrodiil and nations along the outer border such as [[Arenthia]] and [[Elinhir]]. To this day, Kvatch has been a juggernaut amidst the Colovian Estates, forming a strong rivalry with the Kingdom of Skingrad in the east. With their land gone, the Nedes retreated to the north, in the wastes of modern-day [[Hammerfell]], founding the grand city-state of [[Skyreach]].<ref name="1st Cyrodiil">''[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil]]''</ref><ref name="Faleria">''[[The Lost Fort Faleria]]''</ref><ref>''[[Skyreach Explorer, Volume One]]''</ref>
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Sometime during the early part of the First Era, the [[Ayleid]]s migrated to Cyrodiil, expanding their Kingdom from both the east and the west. One of the settlements built at that time was [[Garlas Malatar]], a temple city dedicated to [[Meridia]]. In [[1E 243]], Nedic slaves under the command of [[Saint Alessia]] conquered the land and established the [[First Empire]]. They spread across the land and this is when the current cities of Cyrodiil were founded, including towns in the Western Gold Coast. The Nedic Kingdom of the Strident Coast ruled out of [[Kvatch]]. This continued for several years until the arrival of the [[Colovian]]s, Imperial Westerners who hailed from [[Skingrad]] and [[Chorrol]]. The Colovians overwhelmed the Strident Nedes and took over their land, bringing the Gold Coast into the [[Colovian Estates]]. The Estates were an autonomous government which consisted of West Cyrodiil and nations along the outer border such as [[Arenthia]] and [[Elinhir]]. At the time, Kvatch was a juggernaut among the Colovian Estates and had a strong rivalry with the Kingdom of Skingrad in the east. With their land gone, the Nedes retreated north to [[Hammerfell]] where they founded [[Skyreach]].<ref name="1st Cyrodiil">''[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil]]''</ref><ref name="Faleria">''[[The Lost Fort Faleria]]''</ref><ref>''[[Skyreach Explorer, Volume One]]''</ref>
   
====Tale of Nunex Faleria & Tribune's Folly====
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====The Tale of Lord Nunex Faleria====
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During the early years of the [[Alessian Doctrines]], three leaders ruled over Kvatch as a council. The names of two have been lost in history. The third, [[Lord Nunex Faleria]], was in love with an [[Ayleid]] scholar from the city of [[Nenalata]]. To protect his love, Nunex established a stronghold deep in the Gold Coast and named it [[Fort Faleria]]. To protect it further, he used magic, hired workers, and a tribe of [[Minotaur]]s to guard it. As time went on, Nunex and Lady Faleria had a family, with three children. Eventually, Lady Faleria died and Nunex built a brass tomb for her in Fort Faleria.<ref name="Faleria">''[[The Lost Fort Faleria]]''</ref>
[[File: Tribune's Folly.png|thumb|300px|The excavated ruins of Fort Faleria, now known as, Tribune's Folly was Lord Faleria's legacy.]]
 
{{Quote|Legend has it that in the early days of Cyrodiil, in the wake of the Alessian Doctrines, there were three lords that formed a regency council over the Kingdom of Kvatch. The name of that king and two of the lords are lost to history. Lord Faleria's name, however, is whispered in the night as a cautionary tale of how far one would go to protect those they love.|Anonymous|The Lost Fort Faleria}}
 
During the time of the Nedes, [[Lord Nunex Faleria|Nunex Faleria]] was one of the three lords of the Kingdom of Kvatch sometime around the foundation of the [[Alessian Order]], circa [[1E 361]], around the reign of [[Ami-El|Emperor Ami-El]]. Nunex Faleria, much to the dismay of his family, fell in love with an Ayleid scholar, hailing from the city-state of [[Nenalata]] and having proficiency in [[Necromancy]] and Dark Magic. Despite Nenalata having sworn allegiance to the Alessian Empire, they were unwelcome in their society. To hide her from an inevitable purge, Lord Nunex commissioned the construction of [[Fort Faleria]], an underground complex met to house them till their last days. The Fort was built by the combined forces of magic, hired workers, and various [[Minotaur]] tribes. Eventually, Fort Faleria was finished, and Lord Faleria's family lived in the underground castle for many years.<ref name="Faleria"/><ref group="OOG">[https://www.imperial-library.info/content/forum-archives-matt-grandstaffs-posts ''Matt Grandstaff's Posts'']</ref>
 
   
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====Faleria's Demise====
However, as time went on, Lord Faleria became paranoid, dabbling in evil magic. After the birth of their third child, Lady Faleria was dead, leaving Lord Nunex descending into madness. Prompting his children to desire escape into the outside world. One fateful day, Nunex's son escaped the fort and fell in love with a merchant lord's daughter, who would eventually learn of his heritage. Ultimately, the [[Alessian Empire]] were on castle doorstep, seeking to purge the region of their existence. Out of desperation, Lord Nunex buried the entire fortress entirely underground, killing and trapping everyone inside. To this day, Fort Faleria was lost to time, and legends surrounding it spread like wildfire. His entire lineage was buried in Fort Faleria that day, never to see the light of day. But in [[2E 583]], Fort Faleria was excavated by the [[Gold Coast Trading Company]] and renamed into [[Tribune's Folly]].<ref name="Faleria"/>
 
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During his and his family's residency at the fort, Lord Faleria delved into dark magic. One day, the youngest child escaped and met a young woman, whom he fell in love with. When her family discovered his Elven heritage, she was forced to confess and word of this brought the Empire to Fort Faleria. Lord Faleria committed a gruesome ritual, which ended with his family's death and the destruction of Fort Faleria. With his remaining strength, he buried his family on the surface and remained in the ruins of Fort Faleria, where it faded into obscurity as Tribune's Folly.<ref name="Faleria"/>
   
====Rislav the Righteous & the War of Righteousness====
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====Rislav the Righteous and the Coup at Skingrad====
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During the fifth century, Kvatch was ruled by [[King Justinius]] and it fought against [[Skingrad]] in minor skirmishes over common territory in the [[Colovian West]]. This would last until [[1E 472]], when the marriage of Princess [[Belene]] of Kvatch and [[Rislav Larich]] of Skingrad ended the fighting. Rislav remained in the Court of Kvatch for six years after that until when in [[1E 478]], an unknown disease spread throughout Cyrodiil. The disease killed most of the Larich family in Skingrad, leaving only Rislav and his older brother, [[Dorald Larich]]. When news of this was received by the brothers, Dorald left for Skingrad where he took control of the town. His first decree was to have Skingrad cede to the [[Alessian Empire]], which outraged and shocked the Colovian West, and Rislav and the Court of Kvatch even more so. Rislav, his wife, and a militia of Kvatchian Soldiers attacked Skingrad during the [[Coup at Skingrad]]. Rislav decapitated Dorald and took the position of King of Skingrad. From then on, the Colovian West rebelled against the Alessian Empire, including various acts of rebellion such as the [[Battle of Glenumbra Moors (Event)|Battle of Glenumbria Moors]] and the [[Battle of Sungard]].<ref>''[[Rislav the Righteous]]''</ref>
[[File: Rislav Larich Statue.png|thumb|300px|Rislav Larich inspired revolution against the Alessian Empire across Tamriel, beginning from Kvatch.]]
 
{{Quote|Children of kings are, of course, married to the children of other kings to bind alliances. The kingdoms of Skingrad and Kvatch skirmished over common territory throughout the fifth century, until they reached a peace in the year 472. The details of this accord are not recorded, but since we know that Prince Rislav was in the court of Kvatch six years later, as husband to Belene, the daughter of King Justinius, it is fair to make an educated guess that they were married then to make peace.|[[Sinjin]]|Rislav the Righteous}}
 
The Kingdoms of Colovia co-existed with one another, as the Alessian Empire prospered throughout the realms. The First Empire had been founded in the early first era, and are well deep in the fifth century under the reign of [[Gorieus]]. The Colovian Estates have been under the rule of the Alessians but have worked as the autonomous government of the Estates. By [[1E 472]], the Kingdoms of Skingrad and Kvatch held skirmishes for common territory until they reconciled when [[Rislav Larich]] and [[Belene]] married sometime later around [[1E 478]]. Rislav was a member of the Court of Kvatch and was in close talk with [[King Justinius]], the then leader of Kvatch. But things would change in the same year when an unknown plague swept across the Colovian West and killed practically all of Rislav's seven older siblings save for one, [[Dorald Larich]].<ref name="Rislav">''[[Rislav the Righteous]]''</ref>
 
   
 
====Bendu Olo of Anvil and the All Flags Navy====
Dorald, being a priest of the [[Alessian Order]], claimed his birthright and brought the Kingdom of Skingrad into the Alessian Empire. This decision had left the people of Colovia in utter shock and rage, especially Rislav, who sought to take Skingrad by force. With his father-in-law's militia, Rislav Larich claimed Skingrad and slain his older brother. What came after was years of conflict that led many to rebel against the Alessian Order, as seen with the [[Battle of Sungard]] in [[Skyrim]] and the [[Battle of Glenumbria Moors]] in [[High Rock]]. It began with Skingrad and Kvatch, but soon, Anvil, Chorrol, and the rest of the Northwest World fought the Alessian Empire, as it was told in the legend of Rislav the Righteous. This was the beginning of the fall of the First Empire.<ref name="Rislav"/>
 
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[[File:Sload big.jpg|thumb|250px|A Sload of Thras]]
 
====Bendu Olo of West Anvil; the All-Flags Navy====
 
[[File: Sload big.jpg|thumb|250px|The Sload of Thras unleashed their plague across Tamriel, prompting Tamriel to fight back.]]
 
 
{{Quote|Things persisted in this vein until the Thrassian Plague of 1E 2200, which decimated more than half of Tamriel's population, particularly the western coastlands closest to Thras. After Bendu Olo, the Colovian king of Anvil, led the All Flags Navy to victory over the slugfolk of Thras, the glory of the Cyrodilic people became known throughout the world.|[[Imperial Geographic Society]]|Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil}}
 
{{Quote|Things persisted in this vein until the Thrassian Plague of 1E 2200, which decimated more than half of Tamriel's population, particularly the western coastlands closest to Thras. After Bendu Olo, the Colovian king of Anvil, led the All Flags Navy to victory over the slugfolk of Thras, the glory of the Cyrodilic people became known throughout the world.|[[Imperial Geographic Society]]|Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil}}
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In [[1E 2200]], the [[Sload]] of [[Thras]] had unleashed a horrifying plague called the [[Thrassian Plague]] throughout the Western World. Symptoms of the plague include an intense thirst that is unquenchable. The people would drink and drink until their bones are cracked, and their flesh was bulging. The Plague spread all over the continent, and of their most notable victims was the city-state that became [[Corgrad Wastes]] and the drastic decrease in population for the [[Iliac Bay]]. When the people had reached their breaking point, [[Bendu Olo]], the King of [[Anvil]] amassed a force unlike which the provinces would not witness for many years. Bendu Olo created the [[All Flags Navy]], primarily from the Kings and Barons of the Western World, from [[Summerset Isles]], to [[Hammerfell]], and even from far away [[Black Marsh]]. Bendu Olo sailed from Anvil to the archipelago of Thras and sacked the [[Coral Tower]], subsequently sinking Thras into the [[Sea of Pearls]]. Many notable figures aided Baron-Admiral Olo in battle, such as [[Baron-Captain Olsien Guy Mard]] of [[Evermore]], [[Captain One-Eye|Captain Tsona-Ei]] of [[Alten Corimont]], and [[Syrabane]], Altmeri Warlock who became a part of the [[Aldmeri Pantheon]] ever since. When Bendu Olo returned to Anvil, he was proclaimed a hero, and the fortress built outside the harbor town was converted into [[Castle Anvil]]. The events that transpired had the realms of Colovia overshadow the [[Nibenay]] in the east, which would then bring about the [[War of Righteousness]] in the late first era. This would eventually bring about the end of the Alessian Empire, with the raze of the Order's monastery at [[Lake Canulus]].<ref name="1st Cyrodiil"/><ref>''[[The Royal House of King Eamond]]''</ref><ref>''[[Journal of Tsona-Ei, Part One]]''</ref><ref>''[[Varieties of Faith: The High Elves]]''</ref><ref>''[[The Cleansing of the Fane]]''</ref><ref group="OOG">[http://en.uesp.net/wiki/General:Special_ZOS_Lore_Master_Interview_with_Lawrence_Schick ''Special ZOS Lore Master Interview with Lawrence Schick'']</ref>
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In [[1E 2200]], the [[Sload]] of [[Thras]] had unleashed a horrifying plague called the [[Thrassian Plague]] throughout the Western World. Symptoms of the plague included an intense, unquenchable thirst. The people would drink and drink until their bones cracked and their flesh bulged. The Plague spread all over the continent and of its most notable victims were in the area later known as the [[Corgrad Wastes]]. The disease caused a drastic decrease in population in and around the [[Iliac Bay]]. [[Bendu Olo]], the King of [[Anvil]], amassed a force unlike which the provinces would not witness for many years. Bendu created the [[All Flags Navy]], drawn from the ranks of kings and barons of the Western World from [[Summerset Isles]] to [[Hammerfell]], and even from far away [[Black Marsh]]. Bendu set sail from Anvil to the archipelago of Thras and sacked the [[Coral Tower]] and subsequently sank Thras into the [[Sea of Pearls]]. Many notable figures aided Bendu in battle, such as [[Baron-Captain Olsien Guy Mard]] of [[Evermore]], [[Captain One-Eye|Captain Tsona-Ei]] of [[Alten Corimont]], and [[Syrabane]], an Altmer warlock who became a part of the [[Aldmeri Pantheon]] thereafter. When Bendu returned to Anvil, he was proclaimed a hero and the fortress built outside the harbor town was converted into [[Castle Anvil]]. The events that transpired caused Colovia to overshadow [[Nibenay]] in the east and this would bring about the [[War of Righteousness]] in the late First Era. This war led the end of the Alessian Empire with the razing of the Order's monastery at [[Lake Canulus]].<ref name="1st Cyrodiil"/><ref>''[[The Royal House of King Eamond]]''</ref><ref>''[[Journal of Tsona-Ei, Part One]]''</ref><ref>''[[Varieties of Faith: The High Elves]]''</ref><ref>''[[The Cleansing of the Fane]]''</ref><ref group="UL">[http://en.uesp.net/wiki/General:Special_ZOS_Lore_Master_Interview_with_Lawrence_Schick ''Special ZOS Lore Master Interview with Lawrence Schick'']</ref>
   
 
===[[Second Era]]===
 
===[[Second Era]]===
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{{Main|Anvil (Online)}}
====The Longhouse Emperors & Varen's Wall====
 
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{{Main|Kvatch (Online)}}
[[File: Varen Aquilarios.png|thumb|Varen Aquilarios sealed the Gold Coast to protect it from Leovic.]]
 
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====Count Carolus Aquilarios and Varen's Wall====
 
[[File:Varen Aquilarios.png|thumb|Varen Aquilarios sealed the Gold Coast to protect it from Leovic.]]
 
{{Quote|Shortly after the start of Varen's Rebellion, Aquilarios ordered his followers to begin construction of a wall to protect Kvatch and the rest of the Gold Coast from retaliation by the Longhouse Emperor and his troops. Aquilarios, determined to take the battle to the heart of the Empire, didn't want to leave his home and original seat of power open to retribution by his enemies in his absence.|[[Midara Salviticus]]|Varen's Wall (Book)}}
 
{{Quote|Shortly after the start of Varen's Rebellion, Aquilarios ordered his followers to begin construction of a wall to protect Kvatch and the rest of the Gold Coast from retaliation by the Longhouse Emperor and his troops. Aquilarios, determined to take the battle to the heart of the Empire, didn't want to leave his home and original seat of power open to retribution by his enemies in his absence.|[[Midara Salviticus]]|Varen's Wall (Book)}}
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To protect his original domain, the Gold Coast, Varen Aquilarios commissioned the construction of a stone wall to defend against attacks by Leovic's forces. This wall was designed by [[Jaros Truptor]] and named [[Varen's Wall (Location)|Varen's Wall]]. Because of this, the Gold Coast did not fall into ruin like the rest of Cyrodiil. Varen took the [[Second Legion]] from the Gold Coast and used it in his fight against the Emperor. He left the throne of Kvatch to his nephew, [[Carolus Aquilarios]], whom he believed was worthy of protecting the county. Shortly after this, [[Ephrem Benirus]], the Count of [[Anvil]] and Imperial Praefect decided to rally his forces and try to take control of Kvatch. With what little he had, Carolus had defended Kvatch from Count Benirus and he was promoted to Count of Kvatch. Benirus attempted to take Kvatch a total of three times, each time with dwindling forces. He eventually gave up and lost Anvil to [[Fortunata ap Dugal]] of the [[Red Sails]].<ref>''[[Varen's Wall (Book)|Varen's Wall]]''</ref><ref name="Wolf">''[[The Wolf and the Dragon]]''</ref>
Ever since the death of [[Reman Cyrodiil III]] in [[1E 2920]], the Ruby Throne of the [[Imperial City]] had been left unclaimed, sparking a several hundred year-long period known as the [[Interregnum]]. Many different warriors and nobles, all over the continent set forth to claim the Imperial City and rule over the province. At one point, the [[Reachmen]] Warlord, [[Durcorach the Black Drake]] took control of the Imperial City, establishing a short-lived dynasty known as the [[Longhouse Emperors]], which continued with [[Emperor Leovic]], Durcorach's grandson. The reign of the Longhouse has been controversial, to say the least, but when Leovic legalized Daedric worship in Cyrodiil, this sparked revolution. [[Varen Aquilarios]], Duke of [[Chorrol]], and son of Kvatch raised an army with the Colovian Estates, which became known as the [[Colovian Revolt]]. To protect his home, the Gold Coast from Leovic's forces, he hastily constructed [[Varen's Wall]], a stone wall that separates the region from the [[Colovian Highlands]] and the outskirts of the Gold Coast. By [[2E 577]], Varen Aquilarios became the Emperor of Tamriel and married [[Clivia Tharn]]. Between Varen's declaration of revolution and his disappearance in [[2E 578]], the Gold Coast makes drastic changes that separated itself from the rest of Cyrodiil.<ref>''[[Chronicles of the Five Companions 1]]''</ref><ref name="Varen">''[[Varen's Wall (Book)|Varen's Wall]]''</ref>
 
   
====The Wolf of Kvatch; Carolus Aquilarios====
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====The Wolf of Kvatch====
[[File: Count Carolus Aquilarios.png|thumb|Carolus Aquilarios inherited Kvatch from his uncle, Varen.]]
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[[File:Count Carolus Aquilarios.png|thumb|Carolus Aquilarios inherited Kvatch from his uncle, Varen.]]
 
{{Quote|Carolus Aquilarios idolized his uncle and was eager to help when Varen declared open rebellion against the Emperor. In fact, Carolus wanted to join Varen and fight alongside him as he marched toward the Imperial City. But Varen had other plans for Carolus. He wanted someone he could trust to protect the homefront - someone like his honorable nephew.|[[Midara Salviticus]]|The Wolf and the Dragon}}
 
{{Quote|Carolus Aquilarios idolized his uncle and was eager to help when Varen declared open rebellion against the Emperor. In fact, Carolus wanted to join Varen and fight alongside him as he marched toward the Imperial City. But Varen had other plans for Carolus. He wanted someone he could trust to protect the homefront - someone like his honorable nephew.|[[Midara Salviticus]]|The Wolf and the Dragon}}
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Due to his bravery, Carolus was given the name the Wolf of Kvatch and this marked the start of using the wolf as the symbol of the county. Things became much harder for Carolus when [[Artorius Ponticus]], the Primate of the Order, took an interest in expanding the Order's power over Kvatch and attempted and failed to overpower Carolus and his Kvatch Guard. Eventually in [[2E 582]], Varen disappeared from the Imperial City and the [[Planemeld]] arrived. With the Ruby Throne empty, the [[Alliance War]] advanced into Cyrodiil, waging war across the land. Once again, Varen's Wall spared Kvatch from destruction.<ref name="Order"/><ref name="Wolf"/><ref>Events in {{Online}}</ref>
Varen Aquilarios hails from the city-state of Kvatch and holds the entirety of the Gold Coast dearly, and so, he sought to protect his home from Emperor Leovic, but he needed a worthy leader for the position. His nephew, [[Carolus Aquilarios]] was chosen by him to take the helm of Count of Kvatch, despite yearning to fight alongside his uncle, Carolus vowed to watch over the Gold Coast, till his dying breath. But with the Gold Coast barred from the rest of the province, political conflict arose, specifically from Anvil. [[Count Ephrem Benirus]], and the Imperial Prefect of Anvil, amassed a militia to take control over Carolus' holdings. But with the [[Kvatch Warders]] and a cohort of the [[Second Legion]], Count Aquilarios had overwhelmed Count Benirus. This had continued for many years as Benirus' forces dwindled, but until Varen Aquilarios assumed the throne as Emperor. For his loyalty and perseverance, Carolus was officially named the Count of Kvatch, and earned the name of the ''"Wolf of Kvatch"''. But as Count Carolus was fully-established as the leader, another group had risen into power, trifling over the Court of Kvatch, operating out of the [[Cathedral of Akatosh]].<ref name="Wolf">''[[The Wolf and the Dragon]]''</ref>
 
   
====The Order of the Hour; Enforcers of the Chief Deity====
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====The Order of the Hour====
[[File: Knight of the Hour card art.png|thumb|250px|The Order of the Hour are the militant arm of the Akatosh Chantry as of many years.]]
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[[File:Knight of the Hour card art.png|thumb|250px|The Order of the Hour are the militant arm of the Akatosh Chantry as of many years.]]
{{Quote|The Order of the Hour is one of the oldest knightly orders in the Empire. It was born early in the life of the Empire, during the First Era, and eventually faded into obscurity during the Second Era. It was founded by Ennon Decan as an order of knights dedicated to Akatosh, though originally it drew its members from the priesthood and military alike.|[[Authors#Exordor Vasidius|Exordor Vasidius]]|Order of the Hour (Book)}}
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{{Quote|The Order of the Hour is one of the oldest knightly orders in the Empire. It was born early in the life of the Empire, during the First Era, and eventually faded into obscurity during the Second Era. It was founded by Ennon Decan as an order of knights dedicated to Akatosh, though originally it drew its members from the priesthood and military alike.|[[Exordor Vasidius]]|Order of the Hour (Book)}}
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The [[Akatosh Chantry]] is located in Kvatch. During the [[Interregnum]], the [[Longhouse Emperors]] under [[Durcorach the Black Drake]] had been formed from [[Reachmen]] Emperors.{{Fact}} Given the Daedra worship that the Reachmen practiced, many believed that a purge against worship of the Divines would occur. Many took up arms, preparing for such an event. One such person was [[Cavor Merula]], who had re-established the [[Order of the Hour]] in [[2E 432]] to protect the Chantry and the treasures stored within the vaults. The Order recruited devoted priests and soldiers of Akatosh and trained every day. The anticipated purge never came and the Order remained as sworn protectors of the Akatosh Cathedral.<ref name="Order">''[[Order of the Hour (Book)|Order of the Hour]]''</ref>
The [[Akatosh Chantry]] has been the main religious group of [[Akatosh]], recognized as far as the Iliac Bay, in places such as [[Wayrest]] and [[Bergama]]. But like the other specific temples, the Chantry has a militant arm, in the form of the [[Order of the Hour]]. The group was founded in the early years of the first era, likely inspired by St. Alessia and her divine gift from Akatosh. The Order had faded away in time, but it was revived in [[2E 432]], with the city-state of Kvatch, in response to the growing power of the Longhouse Emperors. Fearing a great purge of worship over the [[Eight Divines]], [[Cavor Merula]] created the Order of the Hour, consisting of those undyingly devoted to Akatosh. Fortunately for them, the purge against the Divines had never come, but the Order had evolved from a rag-tag group of soldiers and priest to an elite militia of bodyguards to the Primate of the Akatosh Chantry. The Order remained in the shadows until a threat would appear on their doorstep. This had ranged to the [[Kvatch Bread Riots]] in [[2E 467]], when the Order under [[Sister Severa]] had slaughtered rioters prepared to burn down the cathedral, for lack of divine aid. When in [[2E 480]], a group of [[Orcish]] Berserkers had attacked Kvatch, Count Varen, and the Order fought against them, with the Order merely doing it protect the Cathedral. As of [[2E 582]], the newly-named Primate, [[Artorius Ponticus]] had elevated the role of the Order in Kvatch, threatening the power that Count Carolus had acquired.<ref name="Hour">''[[Order of the Hour (Book)|Order of the Hour]]''</ref>
 
   
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The [[Kvatch Bread Riots]] occurred in [[2E 467]] when Kvatch had suffered from the [[Red Wheat Blight]] that killed off the crops for the second year in a row. Feeling that the Akatosh Chantry was not doing enough to rectify the situation, [[Gruff Bojour]] incited a mob riot outside the Cathedral, with the intent of inflicting violence and making their disdain known to the Chantry. But the Order of the Hour had prepared for this and [[Sister Severa]] and her squadron slaughtered the rioters before they took action. The Primate at the time decided to pray for the passing of the blight and it disappeared after the next season passed. The Order also saved [[Primate Phrastus]] from an assassination attempt in [[2E 540]] and saved priests from a bandit caravan in [[2E 561]]. Anyone who recognized Akatosh as their divine savior was protected by the Order.<ref name="Order"/>
====The Pirate Queen of the Gold Coast & the Red Sails====
 
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[[File: Governor Fortunata ap Dugal.png|thumb|Captain Fortunata ap Dugal and the Red Sails conquered Anvil.]]
 
 
====The Pirate Queen of the Gold Coast and the Red Sails====
 
[[File:Governor Fortunata ap Dugal.png|thumb|Captain Fortunata ap Dugal and the Red Sails conquered Anvil.]]
 
{{Quote|When the time was right, Fortunata and her armada sailed into Anvil Harbor and grabbed control of the city. Now Provincial Governor Fortunata and her Red Sails enforcers claim the entire Gold Coast as their personal domain. It's estimated that the Red Sails have more than two dozen vessels under the blood-red sabers on a white banner. A navy in its own right, the Pirate Queen could lay claim to any port she desired.|Anonymous|Rise of the Red Sails}}
 
{{Quote|When the time was right, Fortunata and her armada sailed into Anvil Harbor and grabbed control of the city. Now Provincial Governor Fortunata and her Red Sails enforcers claim the entire Gold Coast as their personal domain. It's estimated that the Red Sails have more than two dozen vessels under the blood-red sabers on a white banner. A navy in its own right, the Pirate Queen could lay claim to any port she desired.|Anonymous|Rise of the Red Sails}}
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In [[2E 576]], the Gold Coast had become an independent kingdom separate from Cyrodiil when [[Varen's Wall (Location)|Varen's Wall]] was finished on the Gold Coast border from the [[Colovian Estates]]. The [[Imperial Navy]] left the Gold Coast to face [[Varen Aquilarios]]' rebellion in the [[Heartlands]]. The [[Red Sails]] Pirates of the [[Abecean Sea]] arrived into the Anvil Bay with a large fleet and took control of Anvil in a heartbeat. Fortunata ap Dugal had taken the role of Provincial Governor of the Gold Coast. [[Governor Fortunata ap Dugal]] ruled Anvil with an iron grip and was considered a ruthless dictator among her people. However, Dugal's reign kept the region controlled and prevented anarchy at multiple different times. Her Red Sails became a private militia in a similar vein to the [[Stormcloaks|Stormcloak Rebellion]] in Eastern [[Skyrim]], to benefit her needs and enforce her political beliefs.<ref name="Pirate">''[[Pirate Queen of the Gold Coast]]''</ref>
Count Ephrem Benirus continued his rule over Anvil, even after his failed attempt at claiming Kvatch from Carolus Aquilarios. But his time as the Count would end shortly. A group known as the [[Red Sails]] had appeared throughout the [[Abecean Sea]], under the command of [[Fortunata ap Dugal]]. Originally a band of pirates in the [[Strid River]], the Red Sails had evolved with ap Dugal's involvement, mainly due to her position in the [[Gold Coast Trading Company]]. As time went on, Fortunata had expanded her armada, becoming a public threat across the Abecean waters, but she desired more power. In [[2E 577]], the Red Sails landed on the Anvil Harbor, overwhelming the remaining soldiers of the Imperial Prefect. In no time flat, Fortunata ap Dugal had conquered the city-state of Anvil and proclaimed herself as the Provincial Governor. With this, the Gold Coast Trading Company expanded their horizons and became a leading force, alongside the [[Dragonstar Caravan Company]]. The Pirate Lords and Buccaneers of the Red Sails became merchant lords and ship captains of a much greater army. Fortunata's reign over Anvil was held together by an iron fist, putting her crew first over the people. Many considered Anvil to be the first step, as she plans to take over Kvatch in the east. Without the [[Imperial Navy]], and by that extent, the [[Imperial Legion]] to fight against her, it was considered only a matter of time before she took over the entire Gold Coast.<ref>''[[Rise of the Red Sails]]''</ref><ref>''[[Pirate Queen of the Gold Coast]]''</ref>
 
   
====The Independent Gold Coast & the Strident Triumvirate====
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====The Independent Gold Coast and the Strident Triumvirate====
[[File: Primate Artorius.png|thumb|Primate Artorius Ponticus is the leader of the Order of the Hour.]]
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[[File:Primate Artorius.png|thumb|Primate Artorius Ponticus is the leader of the Order of the Hour.]]
{{Quote|Now, Her Eminence knows all about your objections to the fact that she has annexed the entire Gold Coast and placed everything southwest of Varen's Wall under her protection. She has done this because she cares and because she has the means and resources to fulfill her promise to the people of the Gold Coast. Why can't you just accept her generosity and stop this continuous bickering?|[[Authors#Braccus Klinicus|Braccus Klinicus]], Master Scribe of Anvil Castle|Meet the Character – Governor Fortunata}}
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{{Quote|Now, Her Eminence knows all about your objections to the fact that she has annexed the entire Gold Coast and placed everything southwest of Varen's Wall under her protection. She has done this because she cares and because she has the means and resources to fulfill her promise to the people of the Gold Coast. Why can't you just accept her generosity and stop this continuous bickering?|[[Braccus Klinicus]], Master Scribe of Anvil Castle|Meet the Character – Governor Fortunata}}
Fortunata ap Dugal's ambitions would soon take action, as she begins her attempt to take over Kvatch. Amidst her rise to power, Fortunata ap Dugal had declared the Gold Coast as an independent state from the rest of Cyrodiil in [[2E 579]], when the [[Soulburst]] occurred and the [[Imperial City]] was in more shambles, as the Daedric Hordes from [[Coldharbour]], under the command of [[Molag Bal]] took over Central Cyrodiil, and the Empire under [[Clivia Tharn]], Empress-Regent. The Gold Coast, despite under the command of a Pirate Queen, had prospered amidst the destruction of the heartland. Governor Fortunata had pressed Kvatch to join her diplomatically, albeit underhanded as time went. Count Carolus Aquilarios had denied her advances, every single time, and so the Red Sails would passive-aggressively harass Kvatch, by disrupting the trade flow on the [[Gold Road]]. Feeling threatened, Count Carolus had sent the [[Kvatch Warders]] on the outskirts of Kvatch, to confront the Red Sails. Both groups had met each other outside [[Gottshaw Inn]]. The Warders quickly defeated the motley crew of Anvil warriors, until a raging horde of pirates surrounded them. This event was known as the [[Gottshaw Massacre]], as the pirates outnumbered the legion, six to one. To prevent war, Count Carolus had sworn loyalty to Anvil, losing significant rule. All the while, the Order of the Hour, under the command of Primate Artorius Ponticus, had risen, threatening the Court of Kvatch's power in their own city. Amidst the Independent region of the Gold Coast, was a triumvirate of rulers, Count Carolus Aquilarios of Kvatch, Governor Fortunata ap Dugal, and Primate Artorius. This would continue, even into the [[Alliance War]], to which the Gold Coast was neutral.<ref name="Queen">''[[The Wolf and the Pirate Queen]]''</ref><ref name="Hour"/><ref group="OOG">[https://www.imperial-library.info/content/governor-fortunata ''Meet the Character – Governor Fortunata'']</ref>
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Fortunata ap Dugal would soon take action as she began her attempt to take over Kvatch. Fortunata declared the Gold Coast as an independent state from the rest of Cyrodiil in [[2E 579]] at a time when the [[Soulburst]] occurred, the [[Imperial City]] was in shambles, and the Daedric Hordes from [[Coldharbour]] under the command of [[Molag Bal]] took over Central Cyrodiil. This was during the reign of [[Clivia Tharn]] as Empress-Regent. The Gold Coast, despite being ruled by a Pirate Queen, had prospered amidst the destruction of the heartland. Governor Fortunata pressed Kvatch to join her through diplomatic channels, though this was an underhanded offer. Count Carolus Aquilarios denied her advances, and so the Red Sails would harass Kvatch by disrupting the trade flow on the [[Gold Road]]. Feeling threatened, Count Carolus had sent the [[Kvatch Warders]] on the outskirts of Kvatch to confront the Red Sails. Both groups met each other outside Gottshaw Inn. The Warders quickly defeated a motley crew of Anvil warriors until a raging horde of pirates surrounded them. This event was known as the [[Gottshaw Massacre]]. To prevent a war, Count Carolus swore loyalty to Anvil, losing significant rule. During this conflict, the Order of the Hour, under the command of Primate Artorius Ponticus, had risen, threatening the Court of Kvatch's power in their own city. The Gold Coast then was a triumvirate of rulers: Count Carolus Aquilarios of Kvatch, Governor Fortunata ap Dugal, and Primate Artorius. This would continue, even into the [[Alliance War]], in which the Gold Coast was neutral.<ref name="Queen">''[[The Wolf and the Pirate Queen]]''</ref><ref group="UL">[https://www.imperial-library.info/content/governor-fortunata ''Meet the Character – Governor Fortunata'']</ref>
   
====Voices in the Dark; Enter the Dark Brotherhood====
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====Enter the Dark Brotherhood====
[[File: Speaker Terenus card art.png|thumb|250px|Speaker Terenus was the leader of the Gold Coast Dark Brotherhood, in the Eastern area.]]
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[[File:Speaker Terenus card art.png|thumb|250px|Speaker Terenus was the leader of the Gold Coast Dark Brotherhood, in the Eastern area.]]
 
{{Quote|The people of Kvatch were renowned for their piety, and it was said the Primate of Akatosh was almost the city’s co-ruler. Which would make it a perfect place for a chapter of the Dark Brotherhood, as assassins-for-hire do their best business where regulations are strict and people feel constrained and inhibited. With no way to vent frustrations, minor disagreements become major conflicts, and sometimes a person’s removal seems like the only solution.|[[Naryu Virian]]|Naryu's Journal – Gold Coast}}
 
{{Quote|The people of Kvatch were renowned for their piety, and it was said the Primate of Akatosh was almost the city’s co-ruler. Which would make it a perfect place for a chapter of the Dark Brotherhood, as assassins-for-hire do their best business where regulations are strict and people feel constrained and inhibited. With no way to vent frustrations, minor disagreements become major conflicts, and sometimes a person’s removal seems like the only solution.|[[Naryu Virian]]|Naryu's Journal – Gold Coast}}
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In [[2E 583]], the [[Dark Brotherhood]] of [[Colovian West]] had made a resurgence in the independent kingdom of the [[Gold Coast]] and had made several notable assassinations in places such as Anvil and [[Kvatch]]. One of their first assassinations was [[Lord Quintus Jarol]] at his [[Jarol Estate|Estate]] north of Anvil and [[Grand Sermonizer Fithia|Grand Sermonizer Fithia at-Himah]]. Groups such as the [[Order of the Hour]] began to antagonize the Brotherhood in the hopes to destroy them.<ref>Events in "[[Signed in Blood]]"</ref><ref>Events in "[[A Lesson in Silence]]"</ref>
The [[Dark Brotherhood]] has had a presence in the Gold Coast for quite some time, with one of their oldest sanctuaries, the [[Erstwhile Sanctuary]] being found in the hills of Kvatch, built into the city's foundation. It was abandoned when the wall in the Speaker's bedchamber collapsed and revealed an ancient cavern. As of [[2E 583]], the Gold Coast Sanctuary found beyond the Gold Road, was under the administration of [[Astara Caerellius]], the Matron of the Sanctuary. The [[Black Hand]] member, [[Speaker Terenus]] had also operated here. Amidst the growing conflict, business for the Dark Brotherhood had been booming. Their presence had soon become established with the death of [[Lord Quintus Jarol]], an Imperial nobleman who lived in the north from Anvil. Lord Jarol had orchestrated meetings between the Strident Triumvirate at his home, to successfully negotiate a United Gold Coast. When he caught wind of the Brotherhood's assassin, Lord Jarol attempted to escape via a tunnel underneath his estate. Unfortunately, Lord Quintus Jarol was found dead in the harbor of his home, catching the attention of the entire Gold Coast. The Dark Brotherhood had become well-known throughout the region, irritating the Order of the Hour in particular.<ref>''[[Loading Screens (Online)|The Erstwhile Sanctuary Loading Screen]]''</ref><ref>''[[Letter from the Governor]]''</ref><ref>Events of "[[Signed in Blood]]"</ref>
 
   
====The Order vs. the Brotherhood; The Fall of the Red Sail====
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====The Dark Brotherhood and The Order of the Hour====
[[File: At-Himah Family Estate.png|thumb|300px|Grand Sermonizer Fithia at-Himah was murdered by the Brotherhood for meddling against them.]]
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[[File:At-Himah Family Estate.png|thumb|300px|Grand Sermonizer Fithia at-Himah was murdered by the Brotherhood for meddling against them.]]
 
{{Quote|Murder is a filthy business in the eyes of Akatosh. And those who treat murder as business are the worst of all! Hear me, faithful of Akatosh. I speak of the foul followers of Sithis: the Dark Brotherhood! Cowards and skeever-lovers, the lot of them.|[[Akatosh Sermonizer]]|The Elder Scrolls Online: Dark Brotherhood}}
 
{{Quote|Murder is a filthy business in the eyes of Akatosh. And those who treat murder as business are the worst of all! Hear me, faithful of Akatosh. I speak of the foul followers of Sithis: the Dark Brotherhood! Cowards and skeever-lovers, the lot of them.|[[Akatosh Sermonizer]]|The Elder Scrolls Online: Dark Brotherhood}}
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In [[2E 583]], Carolus Aquilarios continued to rule over Kvatch. The [[Dark Brotherhood (Online Faction)|Dark Brotherhood's]] first notable target that year, [[Quintus Jarol]], was an Imperial nobleman living near Anvil. The Dark Brotherhood became known throughout the region, bringing them to the attention of the leaders of both Anvil and Kvatch, as well as making the Order of the Hour take action. [[Fithia at-Himah]], the Grand Sermonizer of the Chantry, started a mission to preach against the Brotherhood in an attempt to bring them out of the shadows. Priests of Akatosh were killed as they started to preach in the streets of Kvatch. Eventually, At-Himah was able to capture [[Cimbar]] of the Brotherhood with the help of [[the Black Dragon]], a mysterious warrior of Akatosh. As the Black Dragon was leaving the [[At-Himah Family Estate]], the Brotherhood made their move and killed Fithia. This would lead to an all-out hidden war between the Brotherhood and the Order.<ref>Events in "[[A Lesson in Silence]]"</ref>
When news of Lord Jarol's death had sprung across the Gold Coast, Akatosh Sermonizers took the streets of Kvatch, in the attempt to slander their name, and perhaps root them out of their sanctuary. The chief orchestrator in this was Grand Sermonizer, [[Fithia at-Himah]], a noblewoman of Kvatch. The Order had also sought the help of a warrior, known only as [[the Black Dragon]], a woman who was lost until the divine hand of Akatosh showed her the way. Sometime later, the Order had captured a Dark Brotherhood assassin, a [[Redguard]] named [[Cimbar]], torturing him for information to no avail. Moments later, Grand Sermonizer Fithia was killed by the Dark Brotherhood, in an [[Ayleid]] sanctum underneath her home. Another soul was taken to the [[Void]]. And so the war against the Order and the Brotherhood had started, with each of their numbers dwindling by the day.<ref>Events of "[[A Lesson in Silence]]"</ref>
 
   
With this news, both Governor Fortunata ap Dugal and Count Carolus Aquilarios sought their help in the battle against the Order of the Hour. However, only one these people would make it out. The Dark Brotherhood was contacted by the Governor to eliminate [[Marcus Scipio]], leading Commander of the Order. The knightly order had established a stronghold outside Kvatch, the [[Enclave of the Hourglass]]. And so, the Anvilian Governor sought to take him out, to prevent any movement onto County Anvil. But lo and behold, after the Imperial Commander was killed in [[Castle Kvatch]], the Count himself had performed the [[Black Sacrament]], calling for the death of the Governor. This proved to be a win-win situation for the Count, as it not only weakened control over the Order, but it meant the downfall of the Red Sails and their control over Anvil. In the end, two Brotherhood assassins, one of them being [[Mirabelle Motierre]], poisoned the Governor, who then fell to her doom on the rocky shores of the Castle. The Red Sails fragmented, and the Count looked to the Brotherhood as allies, in their common goal against the Order.<ref>Events of "[[A Special Request]]"</ref>
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Oddly enough, [[Governor Fortunata ap Dugal]] had contracted the Dark Brotherhood to assassinate [[Commander Marcus Scipio]] of the Kvatch guard to which the Brotherhood agreed to. Their talented [[Vestige|recruit]] was sent to [[Castle Kvatch (Online)|Castle Kvatch]] to kill Scipio. After murdering Scipio, the recruit encountered [[Count Carolus Aquilarios]] in his chamber who himself had contracted the Dark Brotherhood to assassinate Dugal in return. [[Speaker Terenus (Online)|Speaker Terenus]] of the Brotherhood gave the contract to the recruit, and they returned to Anvil. Upon arriving at Anvil Castle, the assassin was greeted by Dugal, and they both shared a drink on the castle balcony. Unfortunately for Dugal, the wine was poisoned, and she collapsed over the balcony edging falling to her doom.<ref>Events in "[[A Special Request]]"</ref>
   
 
====The Order vs the Brotherhood; The Primate's Folly====
 
====The Order vs the Brotherhood; The Primate's Folly====
[[File: Filling the Void.png|thumb|250px|Primate Artorius was killed in a raid by the Brotherhood, near several dead bodies.]]
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[[File:Filling the Void.png|thumb|250px|Primate Artorius was killed in a raid by the Brotherhood, near several dead bodies.]]
 
{{Quote|The Black Hand has studied the situation and we have devised a strategy for dealing with the Order of the Hour. We will strike first, attacking from the shadows and winnowing their numbers while you stalk our true enemy—Primate Artorius.|[[Speaker Terenus]]|The Elder Scrolls Online: Dark Brotherhood}}
 
{{Quote|The Black Hand has studied the situation and we have devised a strategy for dealing with the Order of the Hour. We will strike first, attacking from the shadows and winnowing their numbers while you stalk our true enemy—Primate Artorius.|[[Speaker Terenus]]|The Elder Scrolls Online: Dark Brotherhood}}
More and more agents of the Order and the Brotherhood had perished, as more contracts had been made, and the Black Dragon hunted the assassins of the Coast. Eventually, the Dark Brotherhood had caught up with the Order of the Hour, ever since the death of the Black Dragon, deep within the ancient mausoleum of [[Knightsgrave]], built during the Alessian Empire. It served as a burial ground for the Order of the Hour. It was in the deepest chamber; the Black Dragon was killed by a [[Wrath of Sithis]], who take the lives of those who have forsaken [[the Five Tenets]] of the Dark Brotherhood. With the main enforcer dealt with, the Dark Brotherhood had targeted Primate Artorius, who had sealed the Cathedral of Akatosh. Via a forgotten tunnel, the Brotherhood had massacred various Order knights and dueled the Primate. In the end, the Primate was killed by a talented [[Vestige|assassin]], who pierced the Primate's staff into Artorius' abdomen. The Primate of the Akatosh Chantry had died, amidst various bodies. With both the Red Sails and the Order out of the way, Count Carolus continued his reign over the Gold Coast, as his uncle had intended. The Gold Coast had prospered amidst the war-torn province of Cyrodiil.<ref>Events of "[[The Wrath of Sithis]]"</ref><ref>Events of "[[Filling the Void]]"</ref>
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The Dark Brotherhood accepted a contract from Fortunata ap Dugal herself to assassinate [[Marcus Scipio]], the leader of the Order. The Brotherhood infiltrated [[Castle Kvatch]] and killed Scipio, but as they were leaving, Count Aquilarios performed the [[Black Sacrament]]. This got the attention of [[Speaker Terenus]] and eventually lead to the death of Fortunata ap Dugal, who was poisoned and fell from her balcony. This pair of murders produced an alliance between the Brotherhood and Carolus of Kvatch. The Black Dragon continued to kill Brotherhood assassins, as the Brotherhood thwarted members of the Order and Carolus provided information for the Brotherhood on the Order and the Dragon. When the Black Dragon died, the Dark Brotherhood decided to end the Order's war against them by assassinating Primate Artorius inside of the Cathedral of Akatosh. After delving through the Kvatch Catacombs, the Dark Brotherhood ultimately killed Ponticus, ending the Order's reign over the Gold Coast. From then on Carolus continued to rule over Kvatch and most of the Gold Coast.<ref>Events in "[[A Special Request]]"</ref><ref>Events in "[[Dark Revelations]]"</ref><ref>Events in "[[Filling the Void]]"</ref>
   
 
===[[Third Era]]===
 
===[[Third Era]]===
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{{Main|Anvil (Oblivion)}}
====Terror of the Gold Coast; Enter Torradan ap Dugal====
 
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{{Main|Kvatch (Oblivion)}}
[[File: Black Flag.png|thumb|300px|The Wreck of the Black Flag, Torradan ap Dugal's ship in Dunbarrow Cove, underneath Castle Anvil.]]
 
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====Camoran Uprising and Opportunistic Piracy====
 
[[File:Black Flag.png|thumb|300px|The Wreck of the Black Flag, Torradan ap Dugal's ship in Dunbarrow Cove, underneath Castle Anvil.]]
 
{{Quote|I curse the day that the Cameron Usurper died at that war ended, 'cause it was that day that Commodore Fasil Umbranox turned 'is attention to the Red Sabre. A couple of months after the war, that fat pompuss bastard decided to come down here to Anvil and take up port in my town, lookin' to break up the Red Sabre. The Emporer gave him whatev'r he asked for to campaign again' us, despite the coffers bein' empty from the war in High Rock.|[[Torradan ap Dugal]]|Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book III}}
 
{{Quote|I curse the day that the Cameron Usurper died at that war ended, 'cause it was that day that Commodore Fasil Umbranox turned 'is attention to the Red Sabre. A couple of months after the war, that fat pompuss bastard decided to come down here to Anvil and take up port in my town, lookin' to break up the Red Sabre. The Emporer gave him whatev'r he asked for to campaign again' us, despite the coffers bein' empty from the war in High Rock.|[[Torradan ap Dugal]]|Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book III}}
In [[3E 246]], [[Haymon Camoran]], the recent usurper of the [[Camoran Dynasty]] had invaded Western Tamriel, under the name of the Camoran Usurper. The Usurper's army had started from the city-state of [[Arenthia]], and moving north along the [[Abecean Coast]] and eventually the [[Iliac Bay]]. Before the Usurper had reached the province of [[Hammerfell]], he had sacked the city-state of Kvatch, paving the way for the [[Battle of Dragontooth]] and the fall of the twin cities of [[Rihad]] and [[Taneth]]. With the Usurper occupying the [[Imperial Navy]], Pirates of the Abecean Sea took this time to attack lands along the Abecean Sea. Pirate activity had increased tenfold in Anvil. The Pirate Captain, [[Kaladas]], had died in Anvil Harbortown from a fatal night of drinking. Amidst the conflict, the pirate, [[Torradan ap Dugal]] had risen to prominence, as the captain of the [[Red Sabre]]s. With the Navy in need of supplies to [[High Rock]], Torradan would intercept these ships and build a vast armada from Valenwood to Hammerfell. Torradan ap Dugal took control over Anvil, as the Empire was focused elsewhere.<ref>''[[The Refugees]]''</ref><ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book I]]''</ref><ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book II]]''</ref>
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In [[3E 246]], [[Haymon Camoran]] invaded Western Tamriel under the name of the Camoran Usurper. The Usurper's army started from [[Arenthia]] and moved north along the [[Abecean Coast]] to the [[Iliac Bay]]. Before the Usurper reached the province of [[Hammerfell]], he had sacked Kvatch. This paved the way for the [[Battle of Dragontooth]] and the fall of the twin cities of [[Rihad]] and [[Taneth]]. With the Usurper occupying the attention of the [[Imperial Navy]], the Pirates of the Abecean Sea took advantage of the distraction to attack lands along the coast resulting in a tenfold increase in pirate activity in Anvil. During this period, the pirate [[Torradan ap Dugal]] rose to prominence as the captain of the [[Red Sabre]]s. With the Navy in need of supplies in [[High Rock]], Torradan would intercept these ships en route and build a vast armada from Valenwood to Hammerfell.<ref>''[[The Refugees]]''</ref><ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book I]]''</ref><ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book II]]''</ref>
   
But this would end in [[3E 267]] when the Camoran Usurper died at the [[Battle of Firewaves]] in the Iliac Bay. [[Fasil Umbranox]], Imperial Commodore of the Imperial Navy had set his attention to ap Dugal and landed on the harbor of Anvil. After a grueling battle, Anvil was captured by Fasil Umbranox, who began a hunt for the [[Black Flag]], Torradan's ship. But when Torradan had evaded him and returned to Anvil, his ship was attacked by warriors waiting on the port. In the end, it was only Torradan's Black Flag and Umbranox's ship. As Torradan attempted to escape, the Commodore's mages plunged him into the depths of [[Anvil Bay]], where he was stuck in [[Smuggler's Cave]]. Eventually, Torradan died after twenty years of being trapped. His ship has remained underneath Castle Anvil since. For his valor, Fasil Umbranox became the Count of Anvil, with his lineage ruling ever since.<ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book III]]''</ref><ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book IV]]''</ref>
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The Uprising came to an end in [[3E 267]] when Haymon died at the [[Battle of Firewaves]] in the Iliac Bay. [[Fasil Umbranox]], Imperial Commodore of the Imperial Navy, set his focus on Torradan and landed in the harbor of Anvil. After a grueling battle, Anvil was captured by Fasil Umbranox, who then began a hunt for Torradan's ship, the [[Black Flag]]. Torradan evaded him and returned to Anvil, but his ship was attacked by warriors waiting on the port. In the end, only Torradan's Black Flag and Fasil's ship remained. As Torradan attempted to escape, the commodore's mages trapped his ship under an avalanche, where he was stuck in [[Smuggler's Cave]]. Torradan died after twenty years of being trapped in the cave and his ship has remained underneath Castle Anvil since. For his valor, Fasil Umbranox became the Count of Anvil and his lineage has ruled Anvil ever since.<ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book III]]''</ref><ref>''[[Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book IV]]''</ref>
   
====The Counts of the Coast & the Waning Third Era====
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====The Counts of the Coast====
[[File: Millona.png|thumb|Millona Umbranox took over Anvil after her husband, Corvus.]]
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[[File:Millona.png|thumb|Millona Umbranox took over Anvil after her husband, Corvus.]]
 
{{Quote|The ruler of Anvil is Countess Millona Umbranox. Her husband, Corvus Umbranox, disappeared many years ago, and most persons would agree that Her Ladyship is better off without him, for he was a light and frivolous person, and given to loose and riotous behavior likely to promote scandal. The Countess herself is a righteous and godly woman, and an excellent ruler, well-loved by the people.|[[Alessia Ottus]]|Guide to Anvil}}
 
{{Quote|The ruler of Anvil is Countess Millona Umbranox. Her husband, Corvus Umbranox, disappeared many years ago, and most persons would agree that Her Ladyship is better off without him, for he was a light and frivolous person, and given to loose and riotous behavior likely to promote scandal. The Countess herself is a righteous and godly woman, and an excellent ruler, well-loved by the people.|[[Alessia Ottus]]|Guide to Anvil}}
Ever since the [[Imperial Simulacrum]] after [[3E 399]], the province of Cyrodiil had been in peace, amidst the waning years of the reign of [[Uriel Septim VII]], who has ruled over Tamriel since [[3E 368]]. Along though conflict has sprung up in the Empire, specifically in the north, Tamriel has been in at ease and in preparation for great things. Although minor things have been reported, with some noteworthy in the Gold Coast. In [[3E 423]], the Count of Anvil, [[Corvus Umbranox]] was named the Guildmaster of the [[Thieves Guild]], donning the [[Gray Cowl of Nocturnal]], which has been passed down from each Cyrodiil Guildmaster since the original, [[Emer Dareloth]]. Corvus had donned the cowl but took upon Nocturnal's curse, whoever wore it would be removed from history. From then on, Corvus was gone, and Countess Millona Umbranox had assumed the role of leader of Anvil, for ten years, and into the [[Fourth Era]]. But all the while, the Count of Kvatch, [[Ormellius Goldwine]] had other problems. His sons, both sought to inherit the title of Count from their father until they both had lost their lives amidst the family strife. Stricken with grief, Count Goldwine continued his reign over Kvatch, all the while mourning the loss of his sons. A new heir had to be chosen, but all in due time. In the Imperial City, Uriel Septim VII would pass his throne to his eldest son, [[Geldall Septim]], Crown Prince of the Empire.<ref name="3rd Cyrodiil">''[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, Third Edition: Cyrodiil]]''</ref><ref>Dialogue from "[[The Gray Fox]]"</ref>
+
In [[3E 423]], the Count of Anvil, [[Corvus Umbranox]], was named the Guildmaster of the [[Thieves Guild]] by donning the [[Gray Cowl of Nocturnal]] which has been passed down from each Cyrodilic Guildmaster since the original, [[Emer Dareloth]]. When Corvus donned the cowl, he took upon Nocturnal's curse: whoever wore it would be removed from history. With Corvus was presumed gone, Countess Millona Umbranox assumed the role of leader of Anvil and ruled for ten years into the [[Fourth Era]]. At approximately the same time, the Count of Kvatch, [[Ormellius Goldwine]], had other problems. His sons both strove to inherit the title of Count from their father until they both had lost their lives due to the family strife. Stricken with grief, Count Goldwine continued his reign over Kvatch, all the while mourning the loss of his sons and knowing that a new heir needed to be chosen. In the Imperial City, Uriel Septim VII would pass his throne to his eldest son, [[Geldall Septim]], Crown Prince of the Empire.<ref name="3rd Cyrodiil">''[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, Third Edition: Cyrodiil]]''</ref><ref>Dialogue with [[The Gray Fox]]</ref>
   
====The Oblivion Crisis & the Battle of Kvatch====
+
====The Battle of Kvatch and the Oblivion Crisis====
[[File: Kvatch.jpg|thumb|300px|The city-state of Kvatch was a casualty in the Oblivion Crisis, the first in the province of Cyrodiil.]]
+
[[File:Kvatch.jpg|thumb|300px|The city-state of Kvatch was a casualty in the Oblivion Crisis, the first in the province of Cyrodiil.]]
 
{{Quote|Gods' blood, you don't know, do you? Daedra overran Kvatch last night! There were glowing portals outside the walls! Gates to Oblivion itself! There was a huge creature... something out of a nightmare... came right over the walls... blasting fire. They swarmed around it... killing... Go and see for yourself! Kvatch is a smoking ruin! We're all that's left, do you understand me? Everyone else is dead!|[[Hirtel]]|The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion}}
 
{{Quote|Gods' blood, you don't know, do you? Daedra overran Kvatch last night! There were glowing portals outside the walls! Gates to Oblivion itself! There was a huge creature... something out of a nightmare... came right over the walls... blasting fire. They swarmed around it... killing... Go and see for yourself! Kvatch is a smoking ruin! We're all that's left, do you understand me? Everyone else is dead!|[[Hirtel]]|The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion}}
In [[3E 433]], Emperor Uriel Septim VII was killed by assassins of the [[Mythic Dawn]], after all of his sons were murdered prior. With no other heir, the [[Dragonfires]] were unlit and the barrier between [[Nirn]] and [[Oblivion]] was gone. [[Mehrunes Dagon]] and his Oblivion Horde had invaded the continent of Tamriel in the event known as the [[Oblivion Crisis]]. All throughout the continent, [[Oblivion Gate]]s had opened, leading to the fall of notable locations such as the city-state of [[Ald'ruhn]] in Morrowind and the [[Crystal Tower]] in the Summerset Isles. But the biggest driving point in the Crisis was the [[Battle of Kvatch]], which took place at the aforementioned city-state of Kvatch. An Oblivion Gate had in front of the city gates, to which the horde had swarmed the entire city, causing the chapel to collapse onto the main street.<ref>Events of "[[Tutorial (Oblivion)|Tutorial]]"</ref><ref>''[[The Fall of Ald'Ruhn]]''</ref><ref>''[[Rising Threat, Vol. I]]''</ref><ref name="Kvatch">Events of "[[Breaking the Siege of Kvatch]]"</ref>
+
In [[3E 433]], after the murder of all of his sons, Emperor Uriel Septim VII was killed by assassins of the [[Mythic Dawn]]. With no other heir, the [[Dragonfires]] were unlit and the barrier between [[Nirn]] and [[Oblivion]] was breached. [[Mehrunes Dagon]] and his Oblivion Horde invaded the continent of Tamriel in what became known as the [[Oblivion Crisis]]. All throughout the continent, [[Oblivion Gate]]s opened, leading to the fall of notable locations such as [[Ald'ruhn]] in Morrowind and the [[Crystal Tower]] in the Summerset Isles. The biggest driving point in the Crisis was the [[Battle of Kvatch]]. An Oblivion Gate had opened in front of the city gates and the horde had swarmed into the city and caused the chapel to collapse onto the main street.<ref>Events of "[[Tutorial (Oblivion)|Tutorial]]"</ref><ref>''[[The Fall of Ald'Ruhn]]''</ref><ref>''[[Rising Threat, Vol. I]]''</ref><ref name="Kvatch">Events of "[[Breaking the Siege of Kvatch]]"</ref>
  +
 
Count Goldwine and the Kvatch Guard at the castle were killed and the entire hall was set ablaze. [[Brother Martin]], a priest of Akatosh, was able to keep a group of people inside the chapel safe from the daedra. [[Saint Jiub]] of [[Vvardenfell]] was killed during this attack. [[Savlian Matius]], Captain of the City Guard, held the daedra back from the outer gate and guarded the refugee camp. When all hope seemed lost, the [[Hero of Kvatch]] came and closed the Oblivion Gate. With the help of the city guard and rangers of the [[Imperial Legion]], the daedric horde was defeated and Kvatch was freed but in ruins. The remaining guard and Savlian took refuge in the Castle.<ref name="Kvatch"/><ref>Events of "[[The Battle for Castle Kvatch]]"</ref><ref>Events of "[[Light the Dragonfires]]"</ref>
   
  +
====Umaril and the Divine Crusader====
Count Ormellius Goldwine and the Kvatch Guard at the castle were killed, with the entire hall set ablaze. [[Brother Martin]], a priest of Akatosh was able to keep a group of people inside the chapel, away from the Daedra. Amidst the conflict, [[Saint Jiub]] of [[Vvardenfell]] was killed. [[Savlian Matius]], Captain of the City Guard had held the Daedra back from the outer gate, safeguarding the refugee camp. When all hope seemed lost, a traveler came and closed the Oblivion Gate. With the help of the city guard and rangers of the [[Imperial Legion]], the Daedric Horde was defeated and Kvatch was freed. But the city remained in ruins. The remaining guard and Savlian took refuge in the Castle. The Crisis was over when Mehrunes Dagon was cast into Oblivion and [[Martin Septim]] sacrificed himself to banish him. [[Chancellor Ocato]], had declared the end of the third era, as the [[Septim Dynasty]] had officially died. The Empire of Tamriel continued into the [[Fourth Era]].<ref name="Kvatch"/><ref>Events of "[[The Battle for Castle Kvatch]]"</ref><ref>Events of "[[Light the Dragonfires]]"</ref>
 
  +
{{Main|Quests (Knights of the Nine)}}
 
[[File:Pilgrimage.png|thumb|300px|The Chapel of Dibella was desecrated by followers of Umaril the Unfeathered, marking his arrival.]]
 
{{Quote|Hear me, o people of Cyrodiil! Look well upon the Chapel of Dibella. Look at the faces of the dead. This is your future. Evil has returned, and the Nine need a champion! Is there no one who would stand for the Nine? Now Mara's children cry out from beyond the grave for vengeance! How many more must die at Umaril's hand?|[[The Prophet (Knights of the Nine)|The Prophet]]|The Elder Scrolls IV: Knights of the Nine}}
   
 
Tragedy struck Anvil when the [[Chapel of Dibella]] was desecrated by an unknown group. Evidence indicated the return of [[Umaril the Unfeathered]] who was the Sorcerer-King of the Ayleids before the [[Alessian Slave Rebellion]] and his death at the hands of [[Pelinal Whitestrake]]. Whitestrake had killed Umaril at the Imperial City, but Umaril's allegiance with [[Meridia]] granted him immortality. When he was killed, his spirit left for [[Aetherius]] and waited for a time in which he could return and seek vengeance on the [[Divines]]. After word of the desecration had spread, the Hero gathered the relics of the [[Divine Crusader]] in order to reconstitute the [[Knights of the Nine (Faction)|Knights of the Nine]]. With everything ready, the Knights of the Nine gathered their forces at Umaril's stronghold, the ruined city of [[Garlas Malatar]]. The Knights battled through waves of [[Auroran]]s and the Hero as the Divine Crusader confronted Umaril in a duel to the death. Again Umaril's physical body was destroyed and his spiritual body remained. Unlike Whitestrake, the Hero possessed the [[Blessing of Talos (Knights of the Nine)|Blessing of Talos]], which enabled them to follow Umaril into the daedric plane and to the skies above the Imperial City, where Umaril was finally and completely defeated. Following this, the Knights of the Nine continued their sworn duty of serving the Nine Divines.<ref>Events of "[[Pilgrimage (Knights of the Nine)|Pilgrimage]]"</ref><ref>Events of "[[Umaril the Unfeathered (Quest)|Umaril the Unfeathered]]"</ref><ref>Dialogue from [[Pelinal Whitestrake]]</ref>
====The Auroran Crisis & Desecration at Anvil Temple====
 
[[File: Pilgrimage.png|thumb|300px|The Chapel of Dibella was desecrated by followers of Umaril the Unfeathered, marking his arrival.]]
 
{{Quote|Hear me, o people of Cyrodiil! Look well upon the Chapel of Dibella. Look at the faces of the dead. This is your future. Evil has returned, and the Nine need a champion! Is there no one who would stand for the Nine? Now Mara's children cry out from beyond the grave for vengeance! How many more must die at Umaril's hand?|[[The Prophet]]|The Elder Scrolls IV: Knights of the Nine}}
 
Around this time, tragedy struck the city-state of Anvil when the [[Chapel of Dibella]] was desecrated by an unknown group, indicating the return of [[Umaril the Unfeathered]], the Sorcerer-King of the Ayleids, before the [[Alessian Slave Rebellion]] and his death at the hands of [[Pelinal Whitestrake]]. Whitestrake had killed Umaril at the Imperial City, but because of his allegiance with [[Meridia]], the [[Daedric Prince]] of Infinite Energies, he was immortal. When he was killed, his spiritual form had left for [[Aetherius]], waiting for the time to return and seek vengeance on the [[Divines]]. When word of the incident in Anvil had spread, a warrior had sought forth to gather the relics of the [[Divine Crusader]] and reform the [[Knights of the Nine]]. As time went on, the warrior gathered a motley crew of warriors and fully-acquiring all of the relics. With everything ready, the Knights of the Nine gathered the forces at Umaril's stronghold, the ruined city-state of [[Garlas Malatar]]. As the Knights battled through waves of [[Auroran]]s, the Divine Crusader and Umaril confronted each other, dueling to the death. But with Umaril's physical body destroyed, only his spiritual body remained. The two were taken to the skies beyond the Imperial City, where Umaril was ultimately defeated. The Knights of the Nine had continued their sworn duty of serving the Nine Divines.<ref>Events of "[[Pilgrimage]]"</ref><ref>Events of "[[Umaril the Unfeathered (Quest)|Umaril the Unfeathered]]"</ref><ref>Dialogue from [[Pelinal Whitestrake]]</ref>
 
   
 
===[[Fourth Era]]===
 
===[[Fourth Era]]===
 
====The Westward Front & the Cyrodiil Campaign====
 
====The Westward Front & the Cyrodiil Campaign====
[[File: TESV Banner Thalmor.png|thumb|The Aldmeri Dominion moved across Colovia and the Alik'r.]]
+
[[File:TESV Banner Thalmor.png|thumb|The Aldmeri Dominion moved across Colovia and the Alik'r.]]
{{Quote|At the same time, an Aldmeri army under Lady Arannelya crossed into western Cyrodiil from Valenwood, bypassing Anvil and Kvatch and crossing into Hammerfell. Smaller Aldmeri forces landed along the southern coastline of Hammerfell. The disunited Redguard forces offered only scattered resistance to the invaders, and much of the southern coastline was quickly overrun. The greatly outnumbered Imperial legions retreated across the Alik'r Desert in the now-famous March of Thirst.|[[Authors#Justianus Quintius|Justianus Quintius]]|}}
+
{{Quote|At the same time, an Aldmeri army under Lady Arannelya crossed into western Cyrodiil from Valenwood, bypassing Anvil and Kvatch and crossing into Hammerfell. Smaller Aldmeri forces landed along the southern coastline of Hammerfell. The disunited Redguard forces offered only scattered resistance to the invaders, and much of the southern coastline was quickly overrun. The greatly outnumbered Imperial legions retreated across the Alik'r Desert in the now-famous March of Thirst.|[[Justianus Quintius]]|}}
On the 30th of [[Frostfall]], [[4E 171]], the [[Third Aldmeri Dominion]] waged war with the [[Third Empire]] of Cyrodiil, under the reign of [[Titus Mede II]]. The westward campaign of the Dominion was under the control of [[Lady Arannelya]], who moved from Valenwood, through the Gold Coast and eventually the province of Hammerfell. The city-states of Anvil and Kvatch were saved from the Dominion's Wrath, but eventually, the Aldmeri Dominion was en route to the Imperial City, as of [[4E 172]]. Initially, the Dominion sought to claim the southern regions of Hammerfell, but because of [[Lord Naarifin]]'s success on the eastward front in the [[Nibenay]], the Dominion had set their sights on the Imperial City. The conflict in Cyrodiil had begun with the destruction of both Anvil and [[Bravil]], and by the end of the year, Lord Naarifin's army was on the outer walls of the Imperial City. The Dominion's reign over the Imperial City had lasted for a couple years, until Titus Mede II himself, wielding [[Goldbrand]] retook the city at the [[Battle of the Red Ring]] in [[4E 175]]. The province of Cyrodiil was saved from the onslaught of the Dominion, but to prevent further war, the Empire and the [[Thalmor]] created the [[White-Gold Concordat]], a controversial treaty that shifts the tides of Tamriel for many years. Anvil was rebuilt amidst the peace.<ref>''[[The Great War (Book)|The Great War]]''</ref>
+
On the 30th of [[Frostfall]], [[4E 171]], the [[Third Aldmeri Dominion]] waged war with the [[Third Empire]] of Cyrodiil, during the reign of [[Titus Mede II]]. The westward campaign of the Dominion was under the control of [[Lady Arannelya]], who moved from Valenwood, through the Gold Coast and eventually to the province of Hammerfell. Initially, the Dominion sought to claim the southern regions of Hammerfell, but because of [[Lord Naarifin]]'s success on the eastward front in the [[Nibenay]], the Dominion set their sights on the Imperial City. The conflict in Cyrodiil began with the destruction of both Anvil and [[Bravil]] by, and by the end of the year, Lord Naarifin's army was on the outer walls of the Imperial City. The Dominion's reign over the Imperial City lasted for a couple years until Titus Mede II himself, wielding [[Goldbrand]], retook the city at the [[Battle of the Red Ring]] in [[4E 175]]. The province of Cyrodiil was saved from the onslaught of the Dominion, but to prevent further war, the Empire and the [[Thalmor]] created the [[White-Gold Concordat]], a controversial treaty that shifted the tides of Tamriel for many years. Anvil was rebuilt during the following peace.<ref>''[[The Great War (Book)|The Great War]]''</ref>
   
 
==Locations==
 
==Locations==
Line 219: Line 231:
 
*[[Enclave of the Hourglass]]
 
*[[Enclave of the Hourglass]]
 
*[[Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary (Online)|Gold Coast Sanctuary]]
 
*[[Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary (Online)|Gold Coast Sanctuary]]
*[[Gottshaw Inn]]
+
*[[Gottshaw Inn (Oblivion)|Gottshaw Inn]]
 
*[[Gweden Farm]]
 
*[[Gweden Farm]]
 
*[[Jarol Estate]]
 
*[[Jarol Estate]]
Line 262: Line 274:
 
*[[The Lady Stone]]
 
*[[The Lady Stone]]
 
*[[The Lord Stone]]
 
*[[The Lord Stone]]
*[[Varen's Wall]]
+
*[[Varen's Wall (Location)|Varen's Wall]]
**[[Varen's Wall Gatehouse]] (East)
+
**[[Varen's Wall Gatehouse]] (east)
   
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
<gallery>
Gold Coast Map (Online).png|Map of the Inner Gold Coast.
+
Gold Coast Map (Online).png|Map of the inner Gold Coast.
 
Anvil (Online).png|Anvil, the port city of Colovia.
 
Anvil (Online).png|Anvil, the port city of Colovia.
 
Kvatch (Online).png|Kvatch, the center of gladiatorial entertainment in Colovia.
 
Kvatch (Online).png|Kvatch, the center of gladiatorial entertainment in Colovia.
 
Brena River.png|The Brena River Valley separating Cyrodiil and Hammerfell.
 
Brena River.png|The Brena River Valley separating Cyrodiil and Hammerfell.
 
Strid River.png|The Strid River separating Cyrodiil and Valenwood.
 
Strid River.png|The Strid River separating Cyrodiil and Valenwood.
TESIV Seal Anvil.png|The Anvil Emblem.
+
Seal Kvatch.png|The Kvatch emblem.
Seal Kvatch.png|The Kvatch Emblem.
 
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
   
Line 283: Line 294:
 
*{{Online}} {{Mo}}
 
*{{Online}} {{Mo}}
 
**{{Dark Brotherhood}}
 
**{{Dark Brotherhood}}
  +
**{{Wrathstone}}
  +
**{{Flames of Ambition}}
   
  +
==References==
{{Refs}}
 
{{OOG}}
+
{{Reflist}}
 
{{UL}}
<references group="OOG"/>
 
   
 
{{Lore Cyrodiil Location Nav}}
 
{{Lore Cyrodiil Location Nav}}
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<!--Interwiki links-->
 
<!--Interwiki links-->
 
[[es:Costa de Oro]]
 
[[es:Costa de Oro]]
  +
[[it:Costa d'Oro]]
 
[[ru:Золотой берег (Lore)]]
 
[[ru:Золотой берег (Lore)]]
 
[[Category:Articles with Subpages]]
 
[[Category:Articles with Subpages]]

Latest revision as of 11:57, 11 February 2024

"The Gold Coast serves as a wonderful destination for travelers that seek the most interesting sights in Cyrodiil and enjoy the fine weather and sandy yellow beaches of Anvil. With bright sun and clear waves, the Gold Coast enjoys a pleasant climate fueled by warmer currents from the Abecean Sea. We offer a verdant paradise perfect for a hearty sort looking for true adventure on a reasonable budget."
Astinia Isauricus[src]

The Gold Coast or the Strident Coast is the western coast of the Colovian West within the province of Cyrodiil. The Gold Coast takes its name from the golden grasslands that stretch along the coast from the Brena River to the Strid River. Most the settlements found in the land are farmlands in between Kvatch and Anvil.

By game[]

Description[]

Geography[]

Western Gold Coast[]

Garlas Malatar (Online)

Garlas Malatar

The western Gold Coast consists of the beaches between the estuaries of the Strid River and the Brena River. Most of the Gold Coast's activity occurs in this area as Anvil is situated along the central bay. The majority of County Anvil is found along the coast. Underneath Anvil is the Smuggler's Cave, which many counts and pirate lords of Anvil have used as either a treasury or an escape route. The westernmost Ayleid ruin in Cyrodiil, Garlas Malatar, is found on the coast on the outskirts of Anvil.

Eastern Gold Coast[]

Varen's Wall Gatehouse

Varen's Wall

The eastern Gold Coast is the central heartlands of western Cyrodiil. Much of the land is agricultural, especially around the outskirts of Kvatch which sits atop hills that overlook the entire area. This region is heavily religious, with the Akatosh Chantry and the Order of the Hour having a strong presence here. The Kvatch Arena is the main attraction of the eastern Gold Coast. The Dark Brotherhood also has a significant presence in the area, with two known sanctuaries in the area. The majority of County Kvatch lies within here.

Outer Gold Coast[]

Fort Sutch

Fort Sutch

The outer Gold Coast refers to the land outside of Varen's Wall which was built during the Colovian Revolt. This region is largely uninhabited and the only settlement is Sutch which is not far from the northern gatehouse. The ruins of Niryastare is the only other notable landmark in the region. The wildlands are inhabited by Daedric cultists at the Statue of Malacath, and there are various bandit encampments and redoubts moving northward. Most of County Sutch can be found here.

Fauna[]

Notable fauna[]

Dire Wolves[]
ESO Dire Wolf

Dire Wolf

The Dire Wolves of the Gold Coast are a much stronger variant of the typical Wolf found throughout the continent. Unlike regular wolves who hunt in packs, dire wolves are typically solitary predators. Taming a dire wolf is much more difficult to do, but citizens of Kvatch have been known to use such creatures as mounts or as auxiliary units. They are also intelligent creatures and are known for having a long memory, but they do not grasp the use of magic. Like pet dogs, they enjoy having their bellies scratched.[1]

Goblins[]

The Goblins of the Gold Coast have a history of alliances forming a united group. As of 2E 583, there were two main tribes, the Long Tooth Tribe who claimed the northern land near Knightsgrave and the ruins of Sutch, while the Sharp Stick Tribe claimed the southern hills around the Strid River. Long ago, the Long Tooth consisted of three tribes, the Long Claws, the Tooth Rocks, and the Rock Sticks. The Long Claws and the Tooth Rocks were originally from the Colovian Highlands near Chorrol and warred against each other and they were eventually driven out by the Fighters Guild and into the Gold Coast. It was here that the two tribes saw the Rock Sticks as a common enemy and fought against that populous tribe. Eventually, the three tribes banded together as the Long Tooth, claiming northern Anvil County. The Sharp Stick tribe is an amalgamation of various smaller tribes, The Eye Sticks, the Sharp Rocks, the Shatter Bones, the Blood Skulls and the Gut Blades that coalesced after significant internecine warfare.[2][3]

River Troll[]
ESO River Troll

River Troll

The Troll is a common creature throughout the provinces, usually found in secluded caves and isolated locations. There are several variants depending on the environment, such as the Frost Troll in the province of Skyrim, or the Swamp Troll in the deep region of the Nibenay Basin. The River Troll variant is found in the riverways of Cyrodiil, primarily the Niben River and the twin rivers of the Gold Coast. River Trolls are hunted in the county of Sutch, where their carcasses are considered valuable. They resemble the typical Troll, but their hide is scaled and silver-blue in color. Their bodies have several river hunting adaptations including fangs and claws to hunt fish, webbed hands and razor sharp teeth. Like other trolls, they live in caves and hidden alcoves, but their diet typically consists of common river fish, Mudcrabs, and even Crocodiles.[3][4]

Nixad[]

The Nixad are mischievous humanoid insects that live primarily in the Colovian West, originally living in the region of the Great Forest, before migrating into the Gold Coast. The Nixad is reminiscent of the Faerie, more specifically, the Pixies of Hammerfell. They live in glades and meadows throughout the Gold Coast. They take pleasure in other people's pain and are known to laugh and mock those in obvious irritation. According to some folktales, the Nixad like to pluck the eyes of children and roll them in piles of Moon Sugar and eat them. The only way to prevent this is to distract them by humiliating the possible victim. Despite their cruel nature, they can be loyal and friendly pets. A unique type of Nixad, the Orchid Nixad, are revered by worshippers of Dibella and they can be found in places that worship her such as the Chapel of Dibella in Anvil..[3][5]

Minotaur[]
ESO Minotaur

Minotaur

The Minotaur is a type of beastfolk found in the Gold Coast and a common type of beastfolk in the Empire. They are more tribal and aggressive than the Orsimer of the Greater Reach. The Minotaurs are also known as Man-Bulls after their physiology. Minotaurs have large and hulking bodies as compared to man and mer. Despite the abundance of male Minotaurs, there are, in fact, female Minotaurs. The most well-known Minotaur was Belharza, the second Emperor of the First Empire and the son of St. Alessia and Morihaus. Minotaurs were devouts of St. Alessia and upheld this in some ways even when they were shunned by the Alessian Order during their persecution of non-humans. Minotaurs in the Gold Coast live near ruins, primarily the ruins of Knightsgrave, which is a mausoleum belonging to the Order of the Hour and a site of worship for Akatosh during the Alessian Empire. Minotaurs have a unique type of armor, partly barbaric in design but with Alessian influences. Even though they are shunned in modern-day society, people of the modern age have recognized their once illustrious past in the early first era. [3][6][7][8]

Other fauna[]

The following fauna can also be encountered in the Gold Coast:

Flora[]

Gold Coast (Online) Daylight

The Gold Coast savannah.

The region of the Gold Coast takes its name from the gold colored grasslandconfirmation needed that stretches between the Brena River and the Strid River. The grassland then extends beyond the region into the north from the Colovian Highlands and as far as the ruins of Lipsand Tarn. The trees in the region consist of oak, beech, and ash, all of which are utilized in Imperial manufacturing and construction, especially in Colovia. The Water Hyacinth is common in the Gold Coast and found in the southern point of the region near the Strid River. One of the most abundant of flora found in the Gold Coast is the Aloe Vera in contrast to their being unavailable elsewhere in Cyrodiil. The Goldenrod, Lady's Mantle, and Fennel can be found further inland. A unique flower called the Wyrd Flower grows in the ruins of Garlas Malatar and other Ayleid ruins in the area.[9]

Government[]

TESIV Seal Anvil

Seal of County Anvil

"At the height of Alessian influence, its western arm enjoyed a brief autonomy as the Colovian Estates, a demarcation that still colors an outsider's view of the Empire today; often, Cyrodiil has two faces, East and West, and any discussion of its later social history must first be tempered with a summary of this early divergence."
Imperial Geographic Society[src]

Cyrodiil is a well-organized country, with subdivisions called Counties partitioning the whole. The Gold Coast houses three distinct counties: Anvil, Kvatch, and Sutch. Each of these are ruled by a count or countess who rules by either hereditary accession or through the people's choice. The Gold Coast itself is a geographic indicator and not a political one, so the region does not have a political center or regional ruler. The Colovian Estates were an autonomous government that spread from Anvil to Falkreath. The Colovian people are strong and hardy, a working people that are much more active than those of the Nibenay.[10][11]

Religion[]

Akatosh Stained Glass

Akatosh

"Akatosh is the chief deity of the Nine Divines (the major religious cult of Cyrodiil and its provinces), and one of two deities found in every Tamrielic religion (the other is Lorkhan). He is generally considered to be the first of the Gods to form in the Beginning Place; after his establishment, other spirits found the process of being easier and the various pantheons of the world emerged."
Mikhael Karkuxor[src]

The Empire has established the worship of the Nine Divines as the main religion in all of the provinces and it is a combination and generalization of several different pantheons. In the Gold Coast, the most prominent divine is Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time and Chief Deity of the Nine Divines. Kvatch has been historically known as a city of Akatosh, with the Cathedral of Akatosh having great significance in County Kvatch. The Akatosh Chantry is the main cult of Akatosh worship and it has chapters throughout the Empire, including in Wayrest and Bergama. Akatosh played a prominent role in the Oblivion Crisis in 3E 433, when Martin Septim sacrificed himself to serve as the Avatar of Akatosh and cast Mehrunes Dagon back into Oblivion. The Order of the Hour is the military arm of the Chantry and they enforced the will of the Chantry. They had a significant role in the Gold Coast during the Interregnum and it is common knowledge that the Akatosh Chantry are enemies of House of Dibella.

The House of Dibella is the central cult that worships Dibella, the Goddess of Beauty and Love. She is one of the more popular ones, with devotees from as far as Markarth and Tigonus. Anvil is the center of Dibella worship in Cyrodiil and the Chapel of Dibella sits in Eastern Anvil.

Culture[]

The Gold Coast is rich in culture and the County of Anvil is a retreat that many nobles go to, similar to the Kingdom of Sentinel in the north. The markets are always in stock with exotic wares and the delicacies of Anvil are served in many exquisite restaurants from Eastgate and Westgate. The beaches, however, are the primary focus of Anvil's tourists. Cozy cottages dot the beach for those who could not afford the villas that nobles sleep in. Kvatch was a place of worship and reflection with the Cathedral of Akatosh prominent in the city square. The Kvatch Arena was another attraction with warriors from all over pitted against various enemies. It was the only arena in Cyrodiil other than the one in the Imperial City, the latter of which still stands. On the Gold Road between Anvil and Kvatch is a series of private estates and isolated inns such as the historical Gottshaw Inn or Lord Drad's Estate.[12]

Economy[]

East empire sign

East Empire Company Logo

"Travelers from all over come to take advantage of the wonderful open air markets, filled with curiosities and delicacies from across Tamriel. Others come to dine at the many fine eateries. Still others frolic on the sandy beaches and swim the clear waters of the Abecean Sea. While the city has many luxurious accommodations for noble families and those of means, some of the citizenry also cater to visitors with a smaller purse, offering guest rooms in their own cozy, beach-front cottages."
Astinia Isauricus[src]

Anvil is a prominent port receiving goods from ships plying the Abecean Sea that are bound for Cyrodiil. As such, the County of Anvil has been a branch location for both the East Empire Company and the Gold Coast Trading Company. Both companies also benefited from the Imperial Navy being stationed in Anvil to protect them from pirate activity on the Abecean Sea. Inland, lumber is a major trade. Anvil Harbor is also a place of rest for passing sailors that move throughout the Abecean and reside in The Fo'c's'le. Skooma runs in the Gold Coast are also smuggled through Anvil Port until they enter the rest of the province.[9][12][13][14]

History[]

First Era[]

The Alessian Empire[]

1st Edition Cyrodiil

First Era Map of the Gold Coast

"The West is respected as Cyrodiil's iron hand: firm, unwavering, and ever-vigilant. The Cyro-Nords that settled it had relinquished the fertile Nibenay Valley long ago, determined to conquer the frontier. Their primitive ferocity was disinclined to magic or the need for industry, preferring bloody engagement and plunder instead. After they had captured the Nedic port-cities of the Strident coast, the Westerners embarked on a mastery of the sea."
Imperial Geographic Society[src]

Sometime during the early part of the First Era, the Ayleids migrated to Cyrodiil, expanding their Kingdom from both the east and the west. One of the settlements built at that time was Garlas Malatar, a temple city dedicated to Meridia. In 1E 243, Nedic slaves under the command of Saint Alessia conquered the land and established the First Empire. They spread across the land and this is when the current cities of Cyrodiil were founded, including towns in the Western Gold Coast. The Nedic Kingdom of the Strident Coast ruled out of Kvatch. This continued for several years until the arrival of the Colovians, Imperial Westerners who hailed from Skingrad and Chorrol. The Colovians overwhelmed the Strident Nedes and took over their land, bringing the Gold Coast into the Colovian Estates. The Estates were an autonomous government which consisted of West Cyrodiil and nations along the outer border such as Arenthia and Elinhir. At the time, Kvatch was a juggernaut among the Colovian Estates and had a strong rivalry with the Kingdom of Skingrad in the east. With their land gone, the Nedes retreated north to Hammerfell where they founded Skyreach.[10][15][16]

The Tale of Lord Nunex Faleria[]

During the early years of the Alessian Doctrines, three leaders ruled over Kvatch as a council. The names of two have been lost in history. The third, Lord Nunex Faleria, was in love with an Ayleid scholar from the city of Nenalata. To protect his love, Nunex established a stronghold deep in the Gold Coast and named it Fort Faleria. To protect it further, he used magic, hired workers, and a tribe of Minotaurs to guard it. As time went on, Nunex and Lady Faleria had a family, with three children. Eventually, Lady Faleria died and Nunex built a brass tomb for her in Fort Faleria.[15]

Faleria's Demise[]

During his and his family's residency at the fort, Lord Faleria delved into dark magic. One day, the youngest child escaped and met a young woman, whom he fell in love with. When her family discovered his Elven heritage, she was forced to confess and word of this brought the Empire to Fort Faleria. Lord Faleria committed a gruesome ritual, which ended with his family's death and the destruction of Fort Faleria. With his remaining strength, he buried his family on the surface and remained in the ruins of Fort Faleria, where it faded into obscurity as Tribune's Folly.[15]

Rislav the Righteous and the Coup at Skingrad[]

During the fifth century, Kvatch was ruled by King Justinius and it fought against Skingrad in minor skirmishes over common territory in the Colovian West. This would last until 1E 472, when the marriage of Princess Belene of Kvatch and Rislav Larich of Skingrad ended the fighting. Rislav remained in the Court of Kvatch for six years after that until when in 1E 478, an unknown disease spread throughout Cyrodiil. The disease killed most of the Larich family in Skingrad, leaving only Rislav and his older brother, Dorald Larich. When news of this was received by the brothers, Dorald left for Skingrad where he took control of the town. His first decree was to have Skingrad cede to the Alessian Empire, which outraged and shocked the Colovian West, and Rislav and the Court of Kvatch even more so. Rislav, his wife, and a militia of Kvatchian Soldiers attacked Skingrad during the Coup at Skingrad. Rislav decapitated Dorald and took the position of King of Skingrad. From then on, the Colovian West rebelled against the Alessian Empire, including various acts of rebellion such as the Battle of Glenumbria Moors and the Battle of Sungard.[17]

Bendu Olo of Anvil and the All Flags Navy[]

Sload big

A Sload of Thras

"Things persisted in this vein until the Thrassian Plague of 1E 2200, which decimated more than half of Tamriel's population, particularly the western coastlands closest to Thras. After Bendu Olo, the Colovian king of Anvil, led the All Flags Navy to victory over the slugfolk of Thras, the glory of the Cyrodilic people became known throughout the world."
Imperial Geographic Society[src]

In 1E 2200, the Sload of Thras had unleashed a horrifying plague called the Thrassian Plague throughout the Western World. Symptoms of the plague included an intense, unquenchable thirst. The people would drink and drink until their bones cracked and their flesh bulged. The Plague spread all over the continent and of its most notable victims were in the area later known as the Corgrad Wastes. The disease caused a drastic decrease in population in and around the Iliac Bay. Bendu Olo, the King of Anvil, amassed a force unlike which the provinces would not witness for many years. Bendu created the All Flags Navy, drawn from the ranks of kings and barons of the Western World from Summerset Isles to Hammerfell, and even from far away Black Marsh. Bendu set sail from Anvil to the archipelago of Thras and sacked the Coral Tower and subsequently sank Thras into the Sea of Pearls. Many notable figures aided Bendu in battle, such as Baron-Captain Olsien Guy Mard of Evermore, Captain Tsona-Ei of Alten Corimont, and Syrabane, an Altmer warlock who became a part of the Aldmeri Pantheon thereafter. When Bendu returned to Anvil, he was proclaimed a hero and the fortress built outside the harbor town was converted into Castle Anvil. The events that transpired caused Colovia to overshadow Nibenay in the east and this would bring about the War of Righteousness in the late First Era. This war led the end of the Alessian Empire with the razing of the Order's monastery at Lake Canulus.[10][18][19][20][21][UL 1]

Second Era[]

Main article: Anvil (Online)
Main article: Kvatch (Online)

Count Carolus Aquilarios and Varen's Wall[]

Varen Aquilarios

Varen Aquilarios sealed the Gold Coast to protect it from Leovic.

"Shortly after the start of Varen's Rebellion, Aquilarios ordered his followers to begin construction of a wall to protect Kvatch and the rest of the Gold Coast from retaliation by the Longhouse Emperor and his troops. Aquilarios, determined to take the battle to the heart of the Empire, didn't want to leave his home and original seat of power open to retribution by his enemies in his absence."
Midara Salviticus[src]

To protect his original domain, the Gold Coast, Varen Aquilarios commissioned the construction of a stone wall to defend against attacks by Leovic's forces. This wall was designed by Jaros Truptor and named Varen's Wall. Because of this, the Gold Coast did not fall into ruin like the rest of Cyrodiil. Varen took the Second Legion from the Gold Coast and used it in his fight against the Emperor. He left the throne of Kvatch to his nephew, Carolus Aquilarios, whom he believed was worthy of protecting the county. Shortly after this, Ephrem Benirus, the Count of Anvil and Imperial Praefect decided to rally his forces and try to take control of Kvatch. With what little he had, Carolus had defended Kvatch from Count Benirus and he was promoted to Count of Kvatch. Benirus attempted to take Kvatch a total of three times, each time with dwindling forces. He eventually gave up and lost Anvil to Fortunata ap Dugal of the Red Sails.[22][23]

The Wolf of Kvatch[]

Count Carolus Aquilarios

Carolus Aquilarios inherited Kvatch from his uncle, Varen.

"Carolus Aquilarios idolized his uncle and was eager to help when Varen declared open rebellion against the Emperor. In fact, Carolus wanted to join Varen and fight alongside him as he marched toward the Imperial City. But Varen had other plans for Carolus. He wanted someone he could trust to protect the homefront - someone like his honorable nephew."
Midara Salviticus[src]

Due to his bravery, Carolus was given the name the Wolf of Kvatch and this marked the start of using the wolf as the symbol of the county. Things became much harder for Carolus when Artorius Ponticus, the Primate of the Order, took an interest in expanding the Order's power over Kvatch and attempted and failed to overpower Carolus and his Kvatch Guard. Eventually in 2E 582, Varen disappeared from the Imperial City and the Planemeld arrived. With the Ruby Throne empty, the Alliance War advanced into Cyrodiil, waging war across the land. Once again, Varen's Wall spared Kvatch from destruction.[24][23][25]

The Order of the Hour[]

Knight of the Hour card art

The Order of the Hour are the militant arm of the Akatosh Chantry as of many years.

"The Order of the Hour is one of the oldest knightly orders in the Empire. It was born early in the life of the Empire, during the First Era, and eventually faded into obscurity during the Second Era. It was founded by Ennon Decan as an order of knights dedicated to Akatosh, though originally it drew its members from the priesthood and military alike."
Exordor Vasidius[src]

The Akatosh Chantry is located in Kvatch. During the Interregnum, the Longhouse Emperors under Durcorach the Black Drake had been formed from Reachmen Emperors.[source?] Given the Daedra worship that the Reachmen practiced, many believed that a purge against worship of the Divines would occur. Many took up arms, preparing for such an event. One such person was Cavor Merula, who had re-established the Order of the Hour in 2E 432 to protect the Chantry and the treasures stored within the vaults. The Order recruited devoted priests and soldiers of Akatosh and trained every day. The anticipated purge never came and the Order remained as sworn protectors of the Akatosh Cathedral.[24]

The Kvatch Bread Riots occurred in 2E 467 when Kvatch had suffered from the Red Wheat Blight that killed off the crops for the second year in a row. Feeling that the Akatosh Chantry was not doing enough to rectify the situation, Gruff Bojour incited a mob riot outside the Cathedral, with the intent of inflicting violence and making their disdain known to the Chantry. But the Order of the Hour had prepared for this and Sister Severa and her squadron slaughtered the rioters before they took action. The Primate at the time decided to pray for the passing of the blight and it disappeared after the next season passed. The Order also saved Primate Phrastus from an assassination attempt in 2E 540 and saved priests from a bandit caravan in 2E 561. Anyone who recognized Akatosh as their divine savior was protected by the Order.[24]

The Pirate Queen of the Gold Coast and the Red Sails[]

Governor Fortunata ap Dugal

Captain Fortunata ap Dugal and the Red Sails conquered Anvil.

"When the time was right, Fortunata and her armada sailed into Anvil Harbor and grabbed control of the city. Now Provincial Governor Fortunata and her Red Sails enforcers claim the entire Gold Coast as their personal domain. It's estimated that the Red Sails have more than two dozen vessels under the blood-red sabers on a white banner. A navy in its own right, the Pirate Queen could lay claim to any port she desired."
―Anonymous[src]

In 2E 576, the Gold Coast had become an independent kingdom separate from Cyrodiil when Varen's Wall was finished on the Gold Coast border from the Colovian Estates. The Imperial Navy left the Gold Coast to face Varen Aquilarios' rebellion in the Heartlands. The Red Sails Pirates of the Abecean Sea arrived into the Anvil Bay with a large fleet and took control of Anvil in a heartbeat. Fortunata ap Dugal had taken the role of Provincial Governor of the Gold Coast. Governor Fortunata ap Dugal ruled Anvil with an iron grip and was considered a ruthless dictator among her people. However, Dugal's reign kept the region controlled and prevented anarchy at multiple different times. Her Red Sails became a private militia in a similar vein to the Stormcloak Rebellion in Eastern Skyrim, to benefit her needs and enforce her political beliefs.[26]

The Independent Gold Coast and the Strident Triumvirate[]

Primate Artorius

Primate Artorius Ponticus is the leader of the Order of the Hour.

"Now, Her Eminence knows all about your objections to the fact that she has annexed the entire Gold Coast and placed everything southwest of Varen's Wall under her protection. She has done this because she cares and because she has the means and resources to fulfill her promise to the people of the Gold Coast. Why can't you just accept her generosity and stop this continuous bickering?"
Braccus Klinicus, Master Scribe of Anvil Castle[src]

Fortunata ap Dugal would soon take action as she began her attempt to take over Kvatch. Fortunata declared the Gold Coast as an independent state from the rest of Cyrodiil in 2E 579 at a time when the Soulburst occurred, the Imperial City was in shambles, and the Daedric Hordes from Coldharbour under the command of Molag Bal took over Central Cyrodiil. This was during the reign of Clivia Tharn as Empress-Regent. The Gold Coast, despite being ruled by a Pirate Queen, had prospered amidst the destruction of the heartland. Governor Fortunata pressed Kvatch to join her through diplomatic channels, though this was an underhanded offer. Count Carolus Aquilarios denied her advances, and so the Red Sails would harass Kvatch by disrupting the trade flow on the Gold Road. Feeling threatened, Count Carolus had sent the Kvatch Warders on the outskirts of Kvatch to confront the Red Sails. Both groups met each other outside Gottshaw Inn. The Warders quickly defeated a motley crew of Anvil warriors until a raging horde of pirates surrounded them. This event was known as the Gottshaw Massacre. To prevent a war, Count Carolus swore loyalty to Anvil, losing significant rule. During this conflict, the Order of the Hour, under the command of Primate Artorius Ponticus, had risen, threatening the Court of Kvatch's power in their own city. The Gold Coast then was a triumvirate of rulers: Count Carolus Aquilarios of Kvatch, Governor Fortunata ap Dugal, and Primate Artorius. This would continue, even into the Alliance War, in which the Gold Coast was neutral.[27][UL 2]

Enter the Dark Brotherhood[]

Speaker Terenus card art

Speaker Terenus was the leader of the Gold Coast Dark Brotherhood, in the Eastern area.

"The people of Kvatch were renowned for their piety, and it was said the Primate of Akatosh was almost the city’s co-ruler. Which would make it a perfect place for a chapter of the Dark Brotherhood, as assassins-for-hire do their best business where regulations are strict and people feel constrained and inhibited. With no way to vent frustrations, minor disagreements become major conflicts, and sometimes a person’s removal seems like the only solution."
Naryu Virian[src]

In 2E 583, the Dark Brotherhood of Colovian West had made a resurgence in the independent kingdom of the Gold Coast and had made several notable assassinations in places such as Anvil and Kvatch. One of their first assassinations was Lord Quintus Jarol at his Estate north of Anvil and Grand Sermonizer Fithia at-Himah. Groups such as the Order of the Hour began to antagonize the Brotherhood in the hopes to destroy them.[28][29]

The Dark Brotherhood and The Order of the Hour[]

At-Himah Family Estate

Grand Sermonizer Fithia at-Himah was murdered by the Brotherhood for meddling against them.

"Murder is a filthy business in the eyes of Akatosh. And those who treat murder as business are the worst of all! Hear me, faithful of Akatosh. I speak of the foul followers of Sithis: the Dark Brotherhood! Cowards and skeever-lovers, the lot of them."
Akatosh Sermonizer[src]

In 2E 583, Carolus Aquilarios continued to rule over Kvatch. The Dark Brotherhood's first notable target that year, Quintus Jarol, was an Imperial nobleman living near Anvil. The Dark Brotherhood became known throughout the region, bringing them to the attention of the leaders of both Anvil and Kvatch, as well as making the Order of the Hour take action. Fithia at-Himah, the Grand Sermonizer of the Chantry, started a mission to preach against the Brotherhood in an attempt to bring them out of the shadows. Priests of Akatosh were killed as they started to preach in the streets of Kvatch. Eventually, At-Himah was able to capture Cimbar of the Brotherhood with the help of the Black Dragon, a mysterious warrior of Akatosh. As the Black Dragon was leaving the At-Himah Family Estate, the Brotherhood made their move and killed Fithia. This would lead to an all-out hidden war between the Brotherhood and the Order.[30]

Oddly enough, Governor Fortunata ap Dugal had contracted the Dark Brotherhood to assassinate Commander Marcus Scipio of the Kvatch guard to which the Brotherhood agreed to. Their talented recruit was sent to Castle Kvatch to kill Scipio. After murdering Scipio, the recruit encountered Count Carolus Aquilarios in his chamber who himself had contracted the Dark Brotherhood to assassinate Dugal in return. Speaker Terenus of the Brotherhood gave the contract to the recruit, and they returned to Anvil. Upon arriving at Anvil Castle, the assassin was greeted by Dugal, and they both shared a drink on the castle balcony. Unfortunately for Dugal, the wine was poisoned, and she collapsed over the balcony edging falling to her doom.[31]

The Order vs the Brotherhood; The Primate's Folly[]

Filling the Void

Primate Artorius was killed in a raid by the Brotherhood, near several dead bodies.

"The Black Hand has studied the situation and we have devised a strategy for dealing with the Order of the Hour. We will strike first, attacking from the shadows and winnowing their numbers while you stalk our true enemy—Primate Artorius."
Speaker Terenus[src]

The Dark Brotherhood accepted a contract from Fortunata ap Dugal herself to assassinate Marcus Scipio, the leader of the Order. The Brotherhood infiltrated Castle Kvatch and killed Scipio, but as they were leaving, Count Aquilarios performed the Black Sacrament. This got the attention of Speaker Terenus and eventually lead to the death of Fortunata ap Dugal, who was poisoned and fell from her balcony. This pair of murders produced an alliance between the Brotherhood and Carolus of Kvatch. The Black Dragon continued to kill Brotherhood assassins, as the Brotherhood thwarted members of the Order and Carolus provided information for the Brotherhood on the Order and the Dragon. When the Black Dragon died, the Dark Brotherhood decided to end the Order's war against them by assassinating Primate Artorius inside of the Cathedral of Akatosh. After delving through the Kvatch Catacombs, the Dark Brotherhood ultimately killed Ponticus, ending the Order's reign over the Gold Coast. From then on Carolus continued to rule over Kvatch and most of the Gold Coast.[32][33][34]

Third Era[]

Main article: Anvil (Oblivion)
Main article: Kvatch (Oblivion)

Camoran Uprising and Opportunistic Piracy[]

Black Flag

The Wreck of the Black Flag, Torradan ap Dugal's ship in Dunbarrow Cove, underneath Castle Anvil.

"I curse the day that the Cameron Usurper died at that war ended, 'cause it was that day that Commodore Fasil Umbranox turned 'is attention to the Red Sabre. A couple of months after the war, that fat pompuss bastard decided to come down here to Anvil and take up port in my town, lookin' to break up the Red Sabre. The Emporer gave him whatev'r he asked for to campaign again' us, despite the coffers bein' empty from the war in High Rock."
Torradan ap Dugal[src]

In 3E 246, Haymon Camoran invaded Western Tamriel under the name of the Camoran Usurper. The Usurper's army started from Arenthia and moved north along the Abecean Coast to the Iliac Bay. Before the Usurper reached the province of Hammerfell, he had sacked Kvatch. This paved the way for the Battle of Dragontooth and the fall of the twin cities of Rihad and Taneth. With the Usurper occupying the attention of the Imperial Navy, the Pirates of the Abecean Sea took advantage of the distraction to attack lands along the coast resulting in a tenfold increase in pirate activity in Anvil. During this period, the pirate Torradan ap Dugal rose to prominence as the captain of the Red Sabres. With the Navy in need of supplies in High Rock, Torradan would intercept these ships en route and build a vast armada from Valenwood to Hammerfell.[35][36][37]

The Uprising came to an end in 3E 267 when Haymon died at the Battle of Firewaves in the Iliac Bay. Fasil Umbranox, Imperial Commodore of the Imperial Navy, set his focus on Torradan and landed in the harbor of Anvil. After a grueling battle, Anvil was captured by Fasil Umbranox, who then began a hunt for Torradan's ship, the Black Flag. Torradan evaded him and returned to Anvil, but his ship was attacked by warriors waiting on the port. In the end, only Torradan's Black Flag and Fasil's ship remained. As Torradan attempted to escape, the commodore's mages trapped his ship under an avalanche, where he was stuck in Smuggler's Cave. Torradan died after twenty years of being trapped in the cave and his ship has remained underneath Castle Anvil since. For his valor, Fasil Umbranox became the Count of Anvil and his lineage has ruled Anvil ever since.[38][39]

The Counts of the Coast[]

Millona

Millona Umbranox took over Anvil after her husband, Corvus.

"The ruler of Anvil is Countess Millona Umbranox. Her husband, Corvus Umbranox, disappeared many years ago, and most persons would agree that Her Ladyship is better off without him, for he was a light and frivolous person, and given to loose and riotous behavior likely to promote scandal. The Countess herself is a righteous and godly woman, and an excellent ruler, well-loved by the people."
Alessia Ottus[src]

In 3E 423, the Count of Anvil, Corvus Umbranox, was named the Guildmaster of the Thieves Guild by donning the Gray Cowl of Nocturnal which has been passed down from each Cyrodilic Guildmaster since the original, Emer Dareloth. When Corvus donned the cowl, he took upon Nocturnal's curse: whoever wore it would be removed from history. With Corvus was presumed gone, Countess Millona Umbranox assumed the role of leader of Anvil and ruled for ten years into the Fourth Era. At approximately the same time, the Count of Kvatch, Ormellius Goldwine, had other problems. His sons both strove to inherit the title of Count from their father until they both had lost their lives due to the family strife. Stricken with grief, Count Goldwine continued his reign over Kvatch, all the while mourning the loss of his sons and knowing that a new heir needed to be chosen. In the Imperial City, Uriel Septim VII would pass his throne to his eldest son, Geldall Septim, Crown Prince of the Empire.[40][41]

The Battle of Kvatch and the Oblivion Crisis[]

Kvatch

The city-state of Kvatch was a casualty in the Oblivion Crisis, the first in the province of Cyrodiil.

"Gods' blood, you don't know, do you? Daedra overran Kvatch last night! There were glowing portals outside the walls! Gates to Oblivion itself! There was a huge creature... something out of a nightmare... came right over the walls... blasting fire. They swarmed around it... killing... Go and see for yourself! Kvatch is a smoking ruin! We're all that's left, do you understand me? Everyone else is dead!"
Hirtel[src]

In 3E 433, after the murder of all of his sons, Emperor Uriel Septim VII was killed by assassins of the Mythic Dawn. With no other heir, the Dragonfires were unlit and the barrier between Nirn and Oblivion was breached. Mehrunes Dagon and his Oblivion Horde invaded the continent of Tamriel in what became known as the Oblivion Crisis. All throughout the continent, Oblivion Gates opened, leading to the fall of notable locations such as Ald'ruhn in Morrowind and the Crystal Tower in the Summerset Isles. The biggest driving point in the Crisis was the Battle of Kvatch. An Oblivion Gate had opened in front of the city gates and the horde had swarmed into the city and caused the chapel to collapse onto the main street.[42][43][44][45]

Count Goldwine and the Kvatch Guard at the castle were killed and the entire hall was set ablaze. Brother Martin, a priest of Akatosh, was able to keep a group of people inside the chapel safe from the daedra. Saint Jiub of Vvardenfell was killed during this attack. Savlian Matius, Captain of the City Guard, held the daedra back from the outer gate and guarded the refugee camp. When all hope seemed lost, the Hero of Kvatch came and closed the Oblivion Gate. With the help of the city guard and rangers of the Imperial Legion, the daedric horde was defeated and Kvatch was freed but in ruins. The remaining guard and Savlian took refuge in the Castle.[45][46][47]

Umaril and the Divine Crusader[]

Main article: Quests (Knights of the Nine)
Pilgrimage

The Chapel of Dibella was desecrated by followers of Umaril the Unfeathered, marking his arrival.

"Hear me, o people of Cyrodiil! Look well upon the Chapel of Dibella. Look at the faces of the dead. This is your future. Evil has returned, and the Nine need a champion! Is there no one who would stand for the Nine? Now Mara's children cry out from beyond the grave for vengeance! How many more must die at Umaril's hand?"
The Prophet[src]

Tragedy struck Anvil when the Chapel of Dibella was desecrated by an unknown group. Evidence indicated the return of Umaril the Unfeathered who was the Sorcerer-King of the Ayleids before the Alessian Slave Rebellion and his death at the hands of Pelinal Whitestrake. Whitestrake had killed Umaril at the Imperial City, but Umaril's allegiance with Meridia granted him immortality. When he was killed, his spirit left for Aetherius and waited for a time in which he could return and seek vengeance on the Divines. After word of the desecration had spread, the Hero gathered the relics of the Divine Crusader in order to reconstitute the Knights of the Nine. With everything ready, the Knights of the Nine gathered their forces at Umaril's stronghold, the ruined city of Garlas Malatar. The Knights battled through waves of Aurorans and the Hero as the Divine Crusader confronted Umaril in a duel to the death. Again Umaril's physical body was destroyed and his spiritual body remained. Unlike Whitestrake, the Hero possessed the Blessing of Talos, which enabled them to follow Umaril into the daedric plane and to the skies above the Imperial City, where Umaril was finally and completely defeated. Following this, the Knights of the Nine continued their sworn duty of serving the Nine Divines.[48][49][50]

Fourth Era[]

The Westward Front & the Cyrodiil Campaign[]

TESV Banner Thalmor

The Aldmeri Dominion moved across Colovia and the Alik'r.

"At the same time, an Aldmeri army under Lady Arannelya crossed into western Cyrodiil from Valenwood, bypassing Anvil and Kvatch and crossing into Hammerfell. Smaller Aldmeri forces landed along the southern coastline of Hammerfell. The disunited Redguard forces offered only scattered resistance to the invaders, and much of the southern coastline was quickly overrun. The greatly outnumbered Imperial legions retreated across the Alik'r Desert in the now-famous March of Thirst."
Justianus Quintius

On the 30th of Frostfall, 4E 171, the Third Aldmeri Dominion waged war with the Third Empire of Cyrodiil, during the reign of Titus Mede II. The westward campaign of the Dominion was under the control of Lady Arannelya, who moved from Valenwood, through the Gold Coast and eventually to the province of Hammerfell. Initially, the Dominion sought to claim the southern regions of Hammerfell, but because of Lord Naarifin's success on the eastward front in the Nibenay, the Dominion set their sights on the Imperial City. The conflict in Cyrodiil began with the destruction of both Anvil and Bravil by, and by the end of the year, Lord Naarifin's army was on the outer walls of the Imperial City. The Dominion's reign over the Imperial City lasted for a couple years until Titus Mede II himself, wielding Goldbrand, retook the city at the Battle of the Red Ring in 4E 175. The province of Cyrodiil was saved from the onslaught of the Dominion, but to prevent further war, the Empire and the Thalmor created the White-Gold Concordat, a controversial treaty that shifted the tides of Tamriel for many years. Anvil was rebuilt during the following peace.[51]

Locations[]

Regions[]

Settlements[]

Ruins[]

Caves[]

Landmarks[]

Gallery[]

Appearances[]

References[]

  1. Guide to Taming Dire Wolves
  2. Gold Coast Goblin Tribes
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 A Gold Coast Children's Bestiary
  4. Field Guide to River Trolls
  5. A Nixad Made Me Do It
  6. On Minotaurs
  7. Crafting Motif 39: Minotaur Style
  8. Brenus Astis' Journal
  9. 9.0 9.1 Gold Coast Guide, Part One
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil
  11. Remanada
  12. 12.0 12.1 Gold Coast Guide, Part Two
  13. East Empire Company Shipping Map (c. 4E 201)
  14. Guide to Anvil
  15. 15.0 15.1 15.2 The Lost Fort Faleria
  16. Skyreach Explorer, Volume One
  17. Rislav the Righteous
  18. The Royal House of King Eamond
  19. Journal of Tsona-Ei, Part One
  20. Varieties of Faith: The High Elves
  21. The Cleansing of the Fane
  22. Varen's Wall
  23. 23.0 23.1 The Wolf and the Dragon
  24. 24.0 24.1 24.2 Order of the Hour
  25. Events in The Elder Scrolls Online
  26. Pirate Queen of the Gold Coast
  27. The Wolf and the Pirate Queen
  28. Events in "Signed in Blood"
  29. Events in "A Lesson in Silence"
  30. Events in "A Lesson in Silence"
  31. Events in "A Special Request"
  32. Events in "A Special Request"
  33. Events in "Dark Revelations"
  34. Events in "Filling the Void"
  35. The Refugees
  36. Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book I
  37. Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book II
  38. Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book III
  39. Cap'n Dugal's Journal, Book IV
  40. Pocket Guide to the Empire, Third Edition: Cyrodiil
  41. Dialogue with The Gray Fox
  42. Events of "Tutorial"
  43. The Fall of Ald'Ruhn
  44. Rising Threat, Vol. I
  45. 45.0 45.1 Events of "Breaking the Siege of Kvatch"
  46. Events of "The Battle for Castle Kvatch"
  47. Events of "Light the Dragonfires"
  48. Events of "Pilgrimage"
  49. Events of "Umaril the Unfeathered"
  50. Dialogue from Pelinal Whitestrake
  51. The Great War
Notice: The following are unlicensed references. They are not copyrighted by a ZeniMax Media company, but can still be considered part of The Elder Scrolls lore and are included for completeness.