Stepping into the shadowed world of the Dark Brotherhood in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion immediately raises a pressing question for new initiates: who should I kill for dark brotherhood oblivion to begin the guild’s deadly work? This guide cuts through the uncertainty, offering a clear path for players who want to trigger the guild questline without wasting time or breaking immersion.
Understanding the Dark Brotherhood Trigger
The Dark Brotherhood in Oblivion does not welcome you with open arms; you must earn your place by completing the initial assassination that proves your commitment to Sithis. The target is not random but carefully chosen to introduce you to the game’s mechanics, warn you of the consequences of betrayal, and establish the Brotherhood’s ruthless efficiency. Choosing the wrong victim can lead to unintended hostility or confusion, so knowing the exact requirements is essential for a smooth start.
Primary Target: Lucan Valerius
For the vast majority of players, the correct answer to who should I kill for dark brotherhood oblivion is Lucan Valerius, a seemingly innocent Imperial found just outside the Cheydinhal Chapel. He is the safe, intended first kill that begins the guild questline, and eliminating him alerts the Night Mother to your readiness without drawing unnecessary attention from the wrong factions. Approaching this assassination with stealth and discretion ensures you follow the Brotherhood’s preferred method and avoid early complications.
Why Lucan Valerius Makes Sense
He is located in a public but low-traffic area, reducing the risk of civilian witnesses.
His assassination is scripted to notify the Night Mother, advancing the main quest reliably.
Killing him early establishes your commitment without locking you into hostile relations with major factions prematurely.
Alternatives and Their Consequences
While Lucan Valerius is the standard answer to who should I kill for dark brotherhood oblivion, some players experiment with other targets to test the game’s boundaries. Killing random NPCs or members of the Fighters Guild, for example, may cause the Dark Brotherhood to reject you or fail to recognize your intent, stalling progression. Understanding these risks helps you avoid dead ends and stay focused on the intended experience.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not kill essential NPCs, as this can break quest logic and lock critical storylines.
Avoid high-profile murders in cities, which attract guards and reduce your infamy threshold for joining the guild.
Refrain from attacking the Night Mother before the quest officially begins, as it skips crucial context and rewards.
Preparation and Execution Strategy
Answering who should I kill for dark brotherhood oblivion is only half the battle; preparing for the act is what separates a successful infiltration from a failed mission. Equip silent weapons, use invisibility spells, or rely on bow attacks from the shadows to maintain your anonymity. Planning your escape route beforehand ensures you can disappear before any witnesses report the crime to the authorities.
