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Not to be confused with Stonehills or Stone Fell.

Stonefalls, also known as Balfalls[1], is the central volcanic wasteland located along the southern coast of the Inner Sea, in the province of Morrowind. Stonefalls has a detailed history of war and conflict, from the Nede-Chimer War to the Second Akaviri Invasion. One of their most well-known stories is the tale of the Brothers of Strife, two Chimeri warriors that sacrificed themselves to defeat the warmongering Nedic warriors.

By game[]

Description[]

Geography[]

Daen Seeth[]

Ash Mountain View from Ebonheart

Ash Mountain is said to seal away Balreth, one of the Brothers of Strife.

"The ashfall from the volcanoes of the Velothi Mountains and from great Ash Mountain itself is Stonefalls' bane and benefit, fertilizing the soil where the land isn't too arid to grow crops. It was here that the recent invading army from Akavir met its bloody end."
―Stonefalls Loading Screen[src]

Daen Seeth is the eastern ashlands, with various ruins dating back to the Chimeri, from the crypts of Othrenis to the ruined battlefield of the Starved Plain. The city-state of Davon's Watch is the capital of House Indoril in Stonefalls, serving as a port city. Within the center of Daen Seeth is the volcano called Ash Mountain, with Foyadas flowing near the townships of Senie and the Zabamatian city of Ebonheart. Along the mountain is a Daedric ruin, which contains the seal of Balreth, one of the Brothers of Strife. The stronghold of Fort Arand, is situated on the outskirts of Ebonheart, being south of a large quarry containing Emberflint Mine.


Varanis[]

IliathTemple

The Iliath Temple is a prominent temple of the Tribunal.

Varanis is the western hills of Stonefalls, stretching from the Velothi Mountains to the Tormented Spire, the biggest landmark in Varanis. The city-state of Kragenmoor is situated in the center of Varanis, along the main road. West of the city is the Iliath Temple, which is the center of worship for the Tribunal Temple in Stonefalls. There are Daedric temples throughout Varanis dedicated to Sheogorath, such as Sheogorath's Tongue. The cavern of Fungal Grotto houses the Murkwater Tribe, a prominent Goblin tribe throughout Stonefalls, fighting against the local Dreughs. The Kagesh Tribe of Ashlanders live in the area, near the Iliath Temple.


Zabamat[]

Vivec's Antlers

Vivec's Antlers has been the hub of several notable battles in Stonefalls.

The fertile lands of Zabamat are situated on the north coastal region of Stonefalls, with the city-state of Ebonheart in the eastern bay, on the Thir River estuary. On the western border lies Fort Virak, which is the border stronghold between Morrowind and Skyrim. The Shadowsilk Tribe is heavily prominent in Zabamat, raiding local farmlands along the Inner Sea. The fortress of Heimlyn Keep holds ancient relics dating back to the Chimer. It is under the occupation of House Telvanni. West of Ebonheart is Vivec's Antlers, which is filled to the brim with land-coral, supposedly holding the Coral Heart, a powerful artifact.


Fauna[]

Netches[]

Netch Concept Art (Online)

The Bull Netch can be found along the Inner Sea.

The Netch is found throughout the waterways of Morrowind, and especially along the Inner Sea. They are large docile creatures with large tendrils and a blue glow. There are three variations of the Netch. The Bull Netch is the alpha and the leader of the pack. When the time comes, the Bull Netch defends their family. Another is the Betty Netch, which is not as large and is usually tending to their kin. Finally, there is the Netch Calf, the young Netch. These Netch are completely harmless and can be gathered for their guts, which is used in fishing. Netches are hunted for the Leather and their Jelly. The Leather is used to make Medium Armor, like Bonemold Armor or Hlaalu brand armor. The Jelly is used in paralysis poisons and magicka potions. Most Netches are found in bundles of three; some would even be alone in caves or alcoves. In Stonefalls, Netches are commonly found in regions such as Zabamat or Daen Seeth, rarely deep in the mainland in Varanis or Deep Daen Seeth.[2]

Shalks[]

Shalks are large beetles with aggressive tendencies. These insects have an affinity with fire, being able to spew fire and living along Foyadas and volcanoes. These creatures resemble the typical Beetle, albeit with a red and orange hue. In places such as Stonefalls or Deshaan, the Shalk are herded and prized for their meat and resin. Typically, the Shalk are found in groups of three, nestled along the lava beds in the twin spires. In other places throughout Morrowind, the Shalk are found in open Grazelands, like in Vvardenfell. Pockets of Shalk can be found underground, typical where the lava flows more. These caves can be far from the volcanoes they usually inhabit. Many people also kill Shalk for their Beetle Scuttle, which can be used in potions of Protection, which allows the consumer to take less damage.[3]

Goblins[]

Murkwater Goblin card art

A Goblin of the Murkwater Tribe.

Goblins are common throughout Tamriel, though there are prevalent tribes in Stonefalls, specifically in the west. There are two major Goblin tribes, the Shadowsilk Tribe live in the region of Zabamat, on the road between Ebonheart and Deshaan. These Goblins utilize Spiders in their assaults on local farms. Considering their affiliate of Spiders and the occupation of the ruins of Mephala's Nest, these Goblins may have a connection with Mephala, the Daedric Prince of Sin. Another tribe is the Murkwater Tribe, which hails from the region of Varanis, specifically deep within the Fungal Grotto. These Goblins remain within the shadows and have constant feuds with the Dreughs of Stonefalls. Because of this, the Fungal Grotto is disputed territory. Because of a Temple of Mephala in Fungal Grotto, the Murkwater Tribe are terrified with delving deeper into the cave.

Alit[]

The Alit is a rather common creature amidst the wastes of Morrowind and Stonefalls is no different. The Alit is a part of a family of creatures that share the same type of body. Among these creatures are the Kagouti and the Wormmouth. The Alit are large hulking reptiles that lack arms, which they compensate with powerful legs. These Alit have gruesome large teeth that can ravage through anything. These creatures have the ability to attack groups of other animals, having the ability to raid Thunderbug nests. The Alit's leather is prized among the Ashlanders yet the actual Alit meat is tough and gamey, even poisonous. Typical, the Alit can be found in groups of two or three, in hill areas, i.e. Daen Seeth or the Ebonheart area. These creatures are vicious and relentless. When one large one is taken out, the runts would attack all out.[2][4]

Dreughs[]

Dreugh Online

A Land Dreugh with the depths of Fungal Grotto, Varanis.

Dreughs are large crustacean creatures that are found throughout the North and central riverways of Tamriel. Dreughs are magnificent creatures with intriguing history surrounding them. Dreughs are taller than the ten major races of Tamriel and come in two variations. The Land Dreugh and the Sea Dreugh, with the formal having crab-like features and the latter having octopus-like features. These creatures undergo a process called Karvinasim, which has the Sea Dreugh emerge onto land, becoming Land Dreughs. The Ruddy Man is a legendary monster that had come face to face with Vivec of the Tribunal, which ended with the creation of the West Gash. According to legend, the Dreughs were the superior race of the previous Kalpa, an Epoch of Time.[5][6]

Miscellaneous creatures[]

Flora[]

Fungal Grotto

The Fungal Grotto is filled to the brim with flora.

The region of Stonefalls is mostly volcanic, though, areas away from the twin spires are abundant in flora. The most notable area in this regard is the Fungal Grotto, which is filled with the large mushrooms and colorful trees of Stonefalls. Deep into the cavern is a huge grove with waterways and ancient Daedric ruins. The creatures primarily inhabiting it are Dreughs and the Murkwater Goblins. The city-state of Ebonheart holds significant plants within its grasp. The Argonian district has a Hist Tree in the center of the area. This district has various plants including Ashreeds and Spiky Grass. Along the outskirts of Ebonheart are shrines of the Tribunal. Because of this, the area is known to have patches of Roland's Tears, a sacred variation of the Gold Kanet that is used in prayers of the Tribunal. Other than that, in Eastern Stonefalls, specifically around Davon's Watch and Bal Foyen, there are various spiraling trees with a wide variety of colors, including pink, purple, and orange. Not only that but the grass is more fertile, typically for the Grazelands of Morrowind. The Emperor Parasol is very common throughout Stonefalls, as it is throughout the province.

Government[]

House Banner Dres

The Great House Dres occupied Ebonheart and Kragenmoor during the Second Era.

"The Great Houses traditions derive from ancient Dunmer clan and tribes but now function as political parties. Dunmer Great House membership is largely a matter of birth and marriage, but Imperial colonists may also become retainers of a Great House or may be adopted into a Great House."
―Anonymous[src]

The province of Morrowind is ruled by the Great Houses, legendary and ancient Dunmeri clans whose spheres of influence revolve around the different aspects of civilization. These Houses govern portions of Morrowind, from the Velothi Mountains to the Padomaic Ocean. In Stonefalls, it is ruled by the Houses of Hlaalu and Indoril, with more a presence of the former, though it would not come until later. The city-state of Davon's Watch is under the control of House Indoril, whose sphere of influence is centered around religion, and their undevoted worship of the Tribunal. Their capital is the city-state of Mournhold. House Indoril is very orthodox and conservative in their own respect. They do not inherently hate Outlander, but they have upheld ancient Dark Elven traditions and keep a sharp and vigilant look on them.[7][8]

House Hlaalu has traditionally been located in the west-central lands, with their capital being the city-state of Narsis. Their sphere of influence revolves around the economy and trade. From a book called Book of Grasping Fortune, the Hlaalu follow the saying, "Seize every chance to make a profit, but remember that your reputation also has value." Because of this mentality, the House Hlaalu have an open relationship with the Empires of Cyrodiil, taking in their culture and lifestyle, as opposed to the rest of Morrowind. The city-states of Ebonheart and Kragenmoor are colloquially known to be Hlaalu territory but sometime in the Second Era, these areas were occupied by House Dres. House Dres typically holds the southeastern marshlands, and even parts of Black Marsh. Their sphere of influence is agriculture and the working citizen. Their plantations are vast, growing the crop seen throughout Morrowind. The Dres have often used slaves, primarily beastfolk like the Argonians and the Khajiit. Their capital is the city-state of Tear.[7][9]

House Hlaalu has had various notable figures become leaders of Morrowind, specifically in the Third Era. These leaders include Barenziah and Athyn Llethan, what these elves have in common is their lineage. The Great House Ra'athim has ruled over the Kingdom of Ebonheart for generations, with family welded into legend. The Ra'athim are known for being miners of Mithril and Gold, eventually taking control of Ebonheart. Of these people, Katariah Septim is the most notable, having been the Duchess of Vvardenfell and later the wife of Pelagius Septim III. People have considered Katariah's reign as the golden years of the Third Empire, but she eventually moved on and gave the throne to Cassynder Septim. Another Ra'athim was Moraelyn, the youngest of three children, and a legendary explorer. Moraelyn's tales spread across the continent, as those his travels. Moraelyn and his family had fought against the Nords that had conquered the province in the first era. House Ra'athim was eventually absorbed in House Mora, which would be brought into House Hlaalu.[10][11][12][UL 1]

Religion[]

Mephala Spiral Skein Statue

Mephala is one of the Good Daedra, having cults and influence in Stonefalls.

"The so-called "New Temple" now declared the worship of the Tribunes a result of misguided teaching, blaming the mistakes on the former Tribunal. The Temple now taught that the daedra venerated by the Ashlander tribes (Azura, Mephala and Boethia) were the "true way" and should be revered by the Dunmer people. Fittingly, the daedra were named the "Reclamations," as if they were reclaiming their status from the Tribunal."
Thara of Rihad[src]

The Chimeri of old had worshipped the Good Daedra, which consisted of the Daedric Princes of Azura, Boethiah, and Mephala. These Daedra have been involved with the history and overall way of life in Morrowind, including the founding of Resdayn and the Nerevarine Prophecy. But as time went on, the Dark Elves adopted a new Tribunal of deities, which was called the Tribunal. The Tribunal consists of three living gods, Almalexia, the Mother God of Morrowind, who represents compassion and sympathy. Her domain is the city-state of Almalexia, colloquially known as Mournhold. Sotha Sil, the Tinkerer, who represents the scholar and engineer. His domain is the Clockwork City, a realm hidden from the residents of Morrowind and ahead of its time, utilizing technology and automatons. Then there is Vivec, the Warrior-Poet, who represents the spirit and vigor of the Dunmeri people. His domain is Vivec City, the floating capital of Vvardenfell. Vivec has a history in Stonefalls, having the land-coral battlefield of Vivec's Antlers named after him and garnering inspiration from Ebonheart. But worship for the Tribunal fell with the passing of the Red Year.[13][14][15]

The Nerevarine Prophecy was a prophecy that foretold the fall of the Tribunal, which eventually came in 3E 427, with the death of both Dagoth Ur and Almalexia at the hands of the Nerevarine. A demented Almalexia killed Sotha Sil, and Vivec fell into obscurity. Because of Vivec's waning powers, the Baar Dau fell and crashed into Vivec City, starting the Red Year. The Red Year was the last straw for Morrowind, and change was in the wind. The Dissident Priests of Holamayan arrived before the Tribunal Temple, rising into the Temple hierarchy and establishing the New Temple. The New Temple revolves around the Good Daedra, the original Tribunal of Morrowind. The Ashlanders that were exiled from Dunmeri society were brought back in with the foundation of the New Temple. House Indoril, in particular, was affected, since they revered the False Tribunal. The power in House Indoril was shifted to the Tribunal Temple, making them one of the same entity. Davon's Watch was likely affected by this change. But before that, Stonefalls has had temples dedicated to the Good Daedra. The temple of Stonefang Isle had revered the Good Daedra. The old temple around Ash Mountain had worshipped Boethiah. Western Stonefalls had a massive influence of Mephala, where the Spider Cult had built a temple deep in Fungal Grotto.[13]

History[]

Merethic Era[]

The Prophet Veloth & his journey to Resdayn[]

Veloth Leading Tapestry

A Tapestry depicting Veloth's journey to Resdayn.

"Saint Veloth, also known as Veloth the Pilgrim, is arguably the most famous, and certainly the most venerated, among the Dunmeri pantheon of saints. Rising to prominence in the Late-Middle Merethic Era on Summerset Isle, Veloth supposedly sought a more ascetic and pure way of life for his followers and gathered them into a grand pilgrimage from the southwest regions of Tamriel to the northeast"
Cascius the Proud[src]

During the Merethic Era, the elven population of Tamriel lived in the Summerset Isles, when it was only the Aldmer and the Chimer. One of these Chimer was Veloth, an elf born of nobility. Veloth observed the world around him and was disgusted, seeing the blatant corruption and spiritual bankruptcy in the world. One day, he was visited by Boethiah, the Daedric Prince of Plots, who told him that even mortals could ascend to godhood. When he told his peers, he was rejected and exiled. Throughout his time, he gathered followers who felt the power in his words, and so he traveled off the Isles and the promised land guided by Boethiah, called Resdayn. The Chimer had founded modern-day Morrowind, establishing temples all across the land, including in modern-day Stonefalls. On Stonefang Isle, an old temple was erected, dedicated to the Good Daedra, which consists of Boethiah, Azura, and Mephala. Southwest of Davon's Watch is the ancient necropolis called Othrenis, which houses the remains of several Chimer including Mavos Siloreth.[16][17][UL 2]

The Brothers of Strife & the Nede-Chimer War[]

The Chimer vs the Nedes

The landmark known as the Brothers of Strife was where the battle took place.

"The greatest generals of the age were brothers. Balreth and Sadal led armies of willing warriors against the [Nedic] horde. At first, this was an attempt to drive them from the ash. As the war went on, their actions turned purely to defense and redirection. If a force of Chimer could spend their blood allowing a village to evacuate, then that was blood well spent."
Nili Omavel[src]

The Chimer-folk were not the only people living in Morrowind or Stonefalls, the Dwarves live throughout Vvardenfell, establishing city-states such as Nchuleft or Dagoth Ur. Another race called the Nedes have lived throughout Northern Tamriel, including Morrowind, albeit a minority. The Nedes of Stonefalls were utmost savages, desiring conquest and spoils. The Chimer of Stonefalls were blocking their path, and so the Nedes attacked them. The Elves sought diplomatic resolve, but the Nedes denied it, waging war in the Nede-Chimer War, where no one was spared their wrath, including women and children. Leading the Chimeri forces were brothers, General Balreth and Legate Sadal, both well-renowned to the Chimer. Their actions were solely defensive, protecting as much Chimeri innocence as possible. Eventually, the war was in the Nedic favor, separating the Chimer's connection to the Inner Sea, forcing them into undisclosed ruins south of modern-day Ebonheart. The Chimer took serious measures by having Balreth, and Sadal turns into twin hulking Bone Colossus, which wiped out the Nedic Horde and the Chimer Forces. The Brothers of Strife spared nobody. With the help of Mavos Siloreth, Balreth was sealed in Ash Mountain, while Sadal were sealed in the Tormented Spire by Chimeri Mages. A large statue was erected at the ruins, naming it the Brothers of Strife.[18][19][20][21]

First Era[]

House Ra'athim & the Nordic Occupation[]

Nerevar ESO

Indoril Nerevar led the Chimeri defense against the Nords.

"Moraelyn's father, Kronin, and his brothers, Cruethys and Ephen, took to raiding after the Nords drove them out of Ebonheart. Guerilla warfare isn't pretty, but neither is losing your homeland. Human memories of that time are faded hand-me-downs, but there's a fair number of dark elves who lived through it still around."
Mats[src]

In 1E 222, Vrage the Gifted had assumed the throne of Skyrim after the death of his brother, Hjalmer. Not long after his assumption, Vrage had proclaimed the beginning of the Nordic Conquest, the Nordic Empire's conquest over northern Tamriel, taking hold of High Rock (as far as Daggerfall), the Nibenay Valley, and the province of Morrowind (excluding Vvardenfell). At the time, the royal clan of House Ra'athim had control over the city of Ebonheart, the de-facto capital of the region of Stonefalls. When the Nordic Occupation moved into Stonefalls, House Ra'athim was cast out of Ebonheart. The Nords took both Ebonheart and Kragenmoor. Years later, King Kronin, and his three sons, Cruethys, Moraelyn, and S'ephen led the charge against the Nords, utilizing guerrilla warfare in their efforts. Ultimately, the Nords were cast out of Stonefalls, with Cruethys assuming reign over Ebonheart, and Yoriss, Kronin's sister became the Queen of Kragenmoor. The conflict would be resolved in 1E 416, when the combined forces of Indoril Nerevar and Dumac Dwarfking defeated the Nords. With their defeat came the formation of the First Council, an alliance between the Chimer and the Dwemer. Ebonheart and Kragenmoor were most likely members of the First Council, as were the rest of Resdayn. As time went on, Cruethys' reign would be over and his brother, Moraelyn, a revered champion became the King of Ebonheart. His two grandsons would go on to rule joint kingdoms that became modern-day Ebonheart and Mournhold.[22][23][24]

Second Era[]

Main article: Stonefalls (Online)

The Battle of Stonefalls & the Ebonheart Pact[]

05 EP - Ebonheart Pact Flag

The Banner of the Ebonheart Pact.

"The Ebonheart Pact has forged an unlikely alliance between the far-flung nations of Morrowind, Skyrim, and Black Marsh, bringing together the Dark Elves, Nords, and free Argonians for their mutual defense. Thanks to the size of its allied nations and the distances involved, the Pact remains relatively free of inner strife and discord."
―Anonymous[src]

During the Interregnum in 2E 572, the continent of Tamriel was invaded by the Snow Demons of Kamal, under the leadership of Ada'Soom Dir-Kamal, whose invasion force had wreaked havoc across Northern Tamriel. The Second Akaviri Invasion had attacked areas such as the Telvanni Peninsula and eventually the city-state of Windhelm. After brazing through the Nords in Skyrim, Dir-Kamal's army encountered the Dark Elves at the borders, near Fort Virak. The Akaviri Army had pushed the Dark Elves to the central Stonefalls, where they staged a fighting retreat to eastern Stonefalls, it was under the command of both Almalexia and Tanval Indoril, the latter being the Grandmaster of House Indoril. The Elves stopped their retreat, preparing for defense at Vivec's Antlers. The Elves were overwhelmed by the Kamali until the Nords under Jorunn the Skald-King and Wulfharth attacked from the west. Even then, it was not enough for the Akaviri, until the Argonian Shellbacks under Heita-Meen attacked from the north, destroying the Akaviri in the process. In the end, the three armies emerged victoriously and formed the Ebonheart Pact, out of survival. The battle would known as the Battle of Stonefalls.[25]

The Stonefalls Campaign; Siege of Davon's Watch[]

Holgunn

Holgunn One-Eye led the defense for Davon's Watch.

"I know you're going to face real challenges in Stonefalls. The Dark Elves are a proud people, and they won't give up without a fight. Covenant Mages are trained in numerous magical and meta-magical techniques ideally suited for the battlefield. But not every battlefield features opposing troops arrayed in lines, keep walls to knock down, or cavalry to deflect. Some battlefields require a little creativity."
Gabrielle Benele[src]

During the Interregnum in 2E 582, the Daggerfall Covenant under the command of General Serien had invaded Pact Territory in Morrowind, from Bleakrock Isle to Bal Foyen. After the attack on Bal Foyen, the Ebonheart Pact had sounded an alarm for the city-state of Davon's Watch, prompting the city to prepare for battle. Holgunn One-Eye led the defense against the Covenant along with Tanval Indoril, the Grandmaster of House Indoril. The Covenant barrage was relentless, forcing Tanval to take extra measures. He uses the help of an Agent of the Pact to retrieve the skull of Nam Indoril so that Tanval can summon Balreth, one of the Brothers of Strife. As Tanval prepares the summoning ritual, the Agent traveled to the beachfront, burning Covenant siege weapons. Eventually, Tanval finished, and Balreth wrecked havoc on the Covenant Armada. Davon's Watch was saved from Balreth roamed Stonefalls, destroying the township of Senie in the process. The Pact sought a way to quell Balreth before he continues his wrath.[26][27][28]

Journey to Othrenis & Suppressing Balreth at Ash Mountain[]

Balreth

Balreth was sealed by Mavos Siloreth at Ash Mountain.

"Towering over central Stonefalls, the great volcano known as Ash Mountain spews smoke and lava in a continual state of eruption. It's said to be honeycombed with caves and lava tubes, some of which hide ancient and perilous secrets."
―Description in Online[src]

An Argonian soldier named Onuja believed that the Chimeri necropolis, Othrenis held the key to rebind Balreth and utilizing the help of the Agent. Through various chants, the two were able to arrive the tomb of Mavos Siloreth, where the Agent relived the memories of Mavos when he sealed Balreth and Sadal. With these memories, the Pact was able to gain the knowledge of sealing the Brothers of Strife. The Pact, under the command of Garyn Indoril, have positioned themselves at the base of Ash Mountain, as they prepare to seal away Balreth in his original home. The Agent was once again tasked with leading the charge forward, defeating Daedra roaming the mountain. To seal Balreth, the Agent must summon Ragebinder and Blaze have them become the protectors of Balreth once again. Eventually, the Agent garnered the necessary things to seal Balreth properly. With the power of the Storm Talisman, Ragebinder and Blaze were able to bind Balreth as Mavos Siloreth trapped him in Ash Mountain. Stonefalls was saved from a greater threat but the Daggerfall Covenant still roams the land, being seen near Ebonheart, where a traitor was revealed.[29][30][31][32]

The Stonefalls Campaign; Battle of Vivec's Antlers[]

Alexandra Conele

Alexandra Conele led the assault against the Pact.

"I don't care how you do it. I don't care if you have to invade that mud-hut pigsty next door and enslave every Argonian there, get it done! That heart is the key, and I will not fail in my mission. And neither will you."
General Serien[src]

With Balreth out of the picture, the Ebonheart Pact battle with the Daggerfall Covenant, where it led to a full-scale battle at Vivec's Antlers, a land riddled with land-coral. At that point, General Serien, leader of the offensive campaign had marched onto the mainland towards Fort Virak, while his troops harassed the locals from Heimlyn Keep to Lukiul Uxith. Alexandra Conele leads the Covenant Armada that was stationed at Vivec's Antlers. She intended to retrieve the Coral Heart, a powerful artifact that can be used to control Sadal, one of the Brothers of Strife. The Pact and the Covenant fought relentlessly, agitating the local Dreugh that inhabit the area. The Dreughs captured many soldiers. Conele captured Lieutenant Galyn to garnered an entrance into the Inner Sanctum, and was able to get what she needed; she advanced. The Agent of the Pact and an Argonian pyromancer, Sings-With-Reed travel forth to the Coral Heart Chamber, where they encountered Alexandra. In the end, Conele was defeated, but the Coral Heart was taken out and need to be healed. Sings-With-Reed sacrifices herself and becomes one with the Heart. With Covenant defeated, Holgunn One-Eye takes hold of the Heart, as the Pact continues west towards Fort Virak, where General Serien was held up at.[33]

The Stonefalls Campaign; Battle of Fort Virak[]

Fort Virak Loading Screen

Fort Virak guards the southern border between Skyrim and Morrowind.

"Guarding the pass to the Rift in Skyrim, Fort Virak is garrisoned by elite Dark Elf soldiers tasked with the defense of Stonefalls' western border. Placed squarely athwart the main route western armies must take to invade Morrowind, the old fortress has survived many a siege."
―Fort Virak description in Online[src]

Garyn Indoril is leading the charge against Fort Virak, as General Serien begins to utilize the dead soldiers on both sides as a reusable militia. The Pact Siege is making no progress, considering the nigh-impenetrable walls of Virak. With no other way to defeat the Covenant, the Agent of the Pact consumed an elixir that turned them into a Wisp, since the Agent lacked a soul it made them more malleable than the regular soldier. The Agent was able to infiltrate Fort Virak and open the gates to let the Pact on both sides of Virak, to storm the Fort. Serien had taken wounded Pact soldiers, using them in necromantic rituals. With the courtyard secured, the Agent, Holgunn, and both Garyn and Tanval Indoril confronted Serien. After defeating the General, he turns into a hulking Flesh Atronach, though he is still defeated, ending the Covenant's campaign over Stonefalls. As his spirit leaves his body, Serien kills Garyn Indoril, mortifying his father, Tanval. Enraged, Tanval steals the Coral Heart from Holgunn and travels to the Tormented Spire, to summon Sadal and destroy the Daggerfall Covenant. Before he can revive the beast, he must gain access from the leader of Kragenmoor.[34][35][36]

The Vanguard's Plot on Kragenmoor[]

Grandmaster Omin Dres

Omin Dres is the Grandmaster of House Dres.

"We know that forces from Virak will be following shortly in the Grandmaster's wake. We must be ready to hold the city, and give him the time he needs. I know we all have reservations about what's happening here. We may have to draw steel on comrades, on our brothers in the alliance. We've all seen what the Covenant is capable of. The Grandmaster understands, where others do not. They must be stopped, no matter the cost."
―Anonymous[src]

The path to the Tormented Spire is inaccessible, only given to the leader of Kragenmoor. At the time, the Dark Elves of House Dres controlled over Kragenmoor and their Grandmaster, Omin Dres resided in the city at this time. Tanval's Vanguard took control over Kragenmoor when they kidnapped Omin's son, Sen Dres, taking him to the nearby House Dres Crypts, knowing that the people wouldn't dare to disturb the ancestral tomb. Knowing that Omin Dres had the key, Tanval had his vanguard kidnap Sen, giving the Grandmaster an ultimatum. Even when Omin gave Tanval what he needed, Sen remained imprisoned in the Crypt. The Pact would step in and by order of Grandmaster Dres, the Agent of the Pact traversed the Dres Crypt and rescued Sen Dres. With the situation dealt with, Omin Dres gave the Pact the entrance to the Tormented Spire, following Tanval Indoril to the prison of Sadal.[37][38]

Tanval's Endeavor & Suppressing Sadal at the Tormented Spire[]

Sadal

Sadal in the depths of the Tormented Spire.

"When the two beasts were finally bound into the twin spires of Stonefalls, they went to their rest with the blood of history staining their claws. We must hope and pray to the Three that their like will never be seen in the Ashlands again."
Nili Omavel[src]

As Tanval Indoril traversed the Tormented Spire, he was killed when he had brought back Sadal. The Pact and Tanval's spirit sought a way to re-seal Sadal into the Tormented Spire. The Ancient Chimeri spirits that imprisoned the Brother of Strife had awakened, defending the prison so that no one brings Sadal back. The Agent of the Pact traveled throughout the caldera of the volcano, seeking the approval of entering the prison, by the Chimer spirits that sealed Sadal. Eventually, the Pact and their strongest fighters entered Sadal's Prison, where they fought the Bone Colossus, sealing it into the volcano forever. With both the Covenant and Sadal put to rest, the Stonefalls region was saved, though a new threat would arise from the region of Deshaan.[39][40][41]

Conquest over Morrowind & the Talosian Empire[]

Tiber Septim Redguard

Tiber Septim (center) during his Conquest of Hammerfell.

"The generals of the legions had dreaded an invasion of Morrowind. The Dunmer were widely regarded as the most dreadful and fanatic foes, further inspired by their Temple and clan traditions. The generals had not grasped the political weaknesses of Morrowind, which Emperor Tiber Septim recognized and exploited."
Erramanwe of Sunhold[src]

As time went on, the Alliance War that had plagued the provinces of Tamriel had faded into obscurity. In 2E 854, Tiber Septim had elevated himself to the throne of Emperor and began an event known as the Tiber Wars, which absorbed the provinces of Tamriel into his own Empire. After successfully bringing in the province of Hammerfell, Septim was pressured by his companion, Wulfharth to invade Morrowind. And so, the Imperial Legion advanced across the eastern borders, attacking the province of Morrowind. Leading the defense were three of the five major houses, Redoran, Dres, and Indoril. The battle for Morrowind took place along the western border, near places such as Kragenmoor and Blacklight, towards townships like Silgrad Tower and Cormaris View. Though things would change when the warriors of Indoril and Dres would rather withdraw and fight through guerrilla warfare, instead of defending the border like the Redoran-folk. Eventually, only the Elves of House Redoran were fighting the Empire. Fortunately, the tides would shift when Vivec himself, appeared before his people in Vivec City, proclaiming that a peace treaty was in the works. In the end, the Treaty of the Armistice was signed by the Tribunal Temple and the Septim Empire. Morrowind was an official Imperial Province.[42][43]

Third Era[]

Main article: Stonefalls (Arena)

Katariah Ra'athim & her Rise as Regent Empress[]

PelagiustheMad

Pelagius Septim III was the Emperor of Tamriel and the husband of Katariah.

"On the orders of Magnus, Pelagius was married to the beautiful heiress of an ancient Dark Elf noble family, Katariah Ra'athim. Nordic kings who marry Dark Elves seldom improve their popularity. Katariah was as shrewd a diplomat as she was beautiful. If any creature was capable of hiding Pelagius' madness, it was she."
Tsathenes[src]

The city-state of Ebonheart under House Ra'athim were allies of the Kingdom of Solitude in the War of the Red Diamond, and this was not a well-kept secret. Once Potema Septim was defeated, her nephew, Pelagius Septim III assumed the throne of Solitude and would eventually inherit the Ruby Throne should his father, Magnus Septim pass away. During his reign, Pelagius III committed various questionable acts such as stripping naked during public speeches and locking the princes of Silvenar in rooms, slipping declarations of war through the door. By order of Magnus Septim, Pelagius the Mad was married to Katariah Ra'athim, the Duchess of Ebonheart. Very few Nordic Kings marry Dark Elves and garner popularity, but with Ebonheart's history with Potema and Katariah's natural talent in politics, she was the perfect candidate for someone like Pelagius III. On the 8th of Second Seed in 3E 145, Emperor Magnus Septim had passed, and both Pelagius III and Katariah Septim assumed the Ruby Throne. But while Pelagius descended into unfathomable madness, Katariah and the Elder Council essentially took over. The forty-six years of her reign were the most celebrated throughout Tamriel. When Pelagius the Mad would bite people visiting him, he was sent to a private asylum. Eventually, Pelagius Septim III passed away in the Isle of Betony. Katariah had only one child with Pelagius III named Cassynder Septim. Though she would have a second child with her consort, Gallivere Lariat of Shornhelm. This child, Uriel Septim IV would become the first Emperor that is not a direct descendant of Tiber Septim. Katariah would pass away in a minor skirmish in Black Marsh but she left a legacy in Tamriel for Ebonheart and House Ra'athim.[12][44]

Stonefalls during the Imperial Simulacrum[]

Stonefalls view

The village of Stonefalls circa 3E 399.

"Uriel VII was imprisoned in a dimension of Tharn's creation, and Tharn used his magic of illusion to assume the Emperor's aspect. For the next ten years, Tharn used Imperial privileges, but did not continue Uriel VII's schedule of reconquest. It is not entirely known yet what Tharn's goals and personal accomplishments were during the ten years he imitated his liege lord."
Stronach k'Thojj III[src]

During the Imperial Simulacrum from 3E 389 to 3E 399, Emperor Uriel Septim VII was imprisoned along with Talin Warhaft in the Deadlands by Jagar Tharn. Tharn planned for months to capture the throne, and he was able to achieve so in the span of ten years. Tharn had a powerful weapon called the Staff of Chaos, and he split it into nine pieces and scattered them across Tamriel, the staff was the only thing keeping Uriel Septim and Warhaft in Oblivion. A warrior escaped his clutches and traveled all corners of Tamriel to retrieve the missing pieces. The hero was known as the Eternal Champion, and he assembled the staff and defeated Jagar Tharn at the Imperial Palace. The Eternal Champion had at one point visited the village of Stonefalls in their quest to recover the pieces.[45]

The Eternal Champion reached the city of Ebonheart on their quest to find the seventh piece of the Staff. Through the visions of Ria Silmane and rumors from the people, the Champion had traveled to the central ashlands, to the city of Ebonheart in the province of Morrowind. There the traveler ventured to the local seat of power where they met King Casik, the leader of Ebonheart. Casik gives the Eternal Champion a proposition where if they retrieved the Hammer of Gharen from Black Gate, then he would reveal the location of the piece. After bringing the hammer, Casik showed the way to Dagoth Ur, an ancient stronghold deep within Red Mountain. It was there that the Eternal Champion had obtained the seventh piece of the staff. The Champion had all the necessary parts of the staff and so he traveled to the Imperial City to defeat Jagar Tharn and end his tirade.[46][47]

Fourth Era[]

The Fall of House Hlaalu & Rise of House Sadras[]

Vendil Severin

Vendil Ulen was a member of House Hlaalu.

"Having past ties to the Empire immediately turned them [House Hlaalu] into the scapegoat for the Dunmer people’s suffering. When everything was said and done, they were no longer recognized as a Great House and were dismissed from the Council."
Adril Arano[src]

In the aftermath of the Oblivion Crisis in 3E 433, Morrowind was in a state of despair unlike anytime before. The Fall of Ald'ruhn was especially devastating when the folks of House Redoran were forced to resurrect Skar. When the province of Cyrodiil was being invaded, the Imperial Legion from all over were forced to defend their homeland, and because of this, Morrowind suffered greatly. Because of House Hlaalu's connection with the Empire, the Great House was the source of blame for Morrowind's fate, to the point, it was used as a scapegoat. By order of the Grand Council under House Redoran, House Hlaalu was demoted from their position as a Great House, much to the dismay of the Hlaalu-kin. They were replaced by House Sadras. Because of this, the Elves of House Hlaalu had held a grudge on House Redoran, holding it for a couple of hundred years. One of their well-known attacks was on the Redoran settlement of Raven Rock where Vilur Ulen would make a failed assassination attempt on Councilor Lleril Morvayn. Fortunately, Ulen was captured and put on the execution block. Several years later around 4E 201, Ulen's family migrated to Solstheim as members of House Severin. Though their second attempt on Morvayn would fail, even with involvement with the Morag Tong.[48][49][50][51]

Even now, House Hlaalu is still referred to as a Great House, implying that their revoked status is not entirely lost. But even then, House Hlaalu has a presence outside of Morrowind, owning several farmsteads in the Old Holds of Skyrim, specifically along the Yorgrim River in Skyrim, near the city-state of Windhelm. During the early fourth era, the city-state of Cheydinhal was ruled by Count Andel Indarys, who was a member of the House Hlaalu court. His family were prevalent in Cheydinhal, with people in the Knights of the Thorn.[49][52][note 1]

Locations[]

Regions[]

Settlements[]

Ruins[]

Caves[]

Landmarks[]

Gallery[]

Appearances[]

Notes[]

  1. This contains speculation that is based on assumptions and minor hints seen throughout The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and the downloadable content that was released for the game. As of now, there is little information regarding the topic.

References[]

  1. Letter Home
  2. 2.0 2.1 Kyne's Challenge: A Hunter's Companion/Morrowind
  3. The (Improved) Emperor's Guide to Tamriel: Stonefalls and Deshaan
  4. Bolga's Guide to Island Beasts
  5. Kyne's Challenge: A Hunter's Companion/High Rock
  6. 36 Lessons of Vivec, Sermon 28
  7. 7.0 7.1 Great Houses of Morrowind
  8. Understanding House Indoril
  9. Understanding House Hlaalu
  10. 36 Lessons of Vivec, Sermon 2
  11. King Edward, Book VII
  12. 12.0 12.1 The Madness of Pelagius
  13. 13.0 13.1 The Reclamations
  14. The Anticipations
  15. On Moving Ebonheart
  16. Veloth the Pilgrim
  17. Exodus from Summerset
  18. The Brothers of Strife
  19. Frontier, Conquest
  20. Events in "Window on the Past"
  21. Events in "The Brothers Will Rise"
  22. Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Skyrim
  23. King Edward, Book X
  24. The Real Barenziah, Book IV
  25. The Second Akaviri Invasion
  26. Events in "Legacy of the Ancestors"
  27. Events in "Delaying the Daggers"
  28. Events in "City Under Siege"
  29. Events in "Wake the Dead"
  30. Events in "Rending Flames"
  31. Events in "Restoring the Guardians"
  32. Events in "The Death of Balreth"
  33. Events in "The Coral Heart"
  34. Events in "Breaking Fort Virak"
  35. Events in "Evening the Odds"
  36. Events in "The General's Demise"
  37. Events in "Aggressive Negotiations"
  38. Events in "Saving the Son"
  39. Events in "Climbing the Spire"
  40. Events in "Opening the Portal"
  41. Events in "Sadal's Final Defeat"
  42. On Morrowind
  43. The Arcturian Heresy
  44. Brief History of the Empire, Book II
  45. Events in The Elder Scrolls: Arena
  46. Events in "Black Gate"
  47. Events in "Dagoth-Ur"
  48. History of Raven Rock, Vol. III
  49. 49.0 49.1 Dialogue from Adril Arano
  50. Dialogue from Lleril Morvayn
  51. Events in "Served Cold"
  52. Dunmer of Skyrim
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.
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