Understanding the Crimson Curse
Initial Infection and Progression
The world of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is a vast and dangerous place, brimming with quests, creatures, and secrets. Within this dynamic environment, the affliction of vampirism presents a unique challenge to the player. The transformation from a mortal hero to a creature of the night is not instantaneous; it is a gradual process that unfolds over time. The infection starts with exposure to Sanguinare Vampiris, a disease contracted from certain vampires.
Vampiric Strengths and Weaknesses
As a vampire, your character will experience a series of effects that are both beneficial and detrimental. Vampires are vulnerable to sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sun results in a continuous drain of health and fatigue. Additionally, vampires suffer increased fire damage. However, being undead grants certain advantages. Vampires possess enhanced attributes. They also enjoy resistances to various forms of magic. Furthermore, they can use their abilities to dominate the lesser creatures. The most significant ability for the vampire is the ability to feed on the blood of mortals.
Impact on Gameplay and the World
Being a vampire also has a profound impact on the world. NPCs will react differently to a vampire, some with fear, some with disgust. This can affect dialogue options and your ability to complete certain quests. The vampire’s thirst for blood can also lead to conflicts and repercussions within the game world.
Embarking on the Cure Quest: “Rising at Dawn”
Starting the Quest
Fortunately, there is a way to break the vampiric curse and return to a mortal existence. This involves completing a quest called “Rising at Dawn.” To start the quest, the player needs to be a stage four vampire. The quest can be started by talking to several different NPCs. They include members of the Fighters Guild, priests at temples, innkeepers, and sometimes, even certain townsfolk.
The Core Steps
The core of this quest involves gathering specific items, traveling to a place of power, and performing a ritual. The quest is not easy, and you will need to journey far and wide to find all the components.
Gathering the Necessary Ingredients
Argonian Blood
One of the crucial ingredients is Argonian blood. This unique blood is required for the cure. You must acquire this from a willing Argonian. Finding an Argonian who is willing to help is simple: go to any town that has an Argonian. The quest does not require any specific amount of Argonian blood. However, the cure will fail if this step is not performed.
Aurelia’s Ashes
Next, you will need Aurelia’s ashes. This item is somewhat more complicated to find. Aurelia is a character who once existed in the world. She can be found in a specific crypt or tomb, which you’ll learn about from your guide. Her ashes, along with her remains, are needed to proceed.
Grave Dust
Grave dust is an essential component of the ritual. You can find grave dust in various locations around Cyrodiil. These locations include crypts, dungeons, and even some outdoor burial grounds. Exploring these areas and searching through sarcophagi or urns will provide you with the dust needed. These are very common and shouldn’t pose a problem.
Potent Soul Gem
Finally, you will need a potent soul gem. These rare items can be acquired in multiple ways. They are often found as loot in dungeons, dropped by powerful enemies, or purchased from certain vendors. Finding a potent soul gem can sometimes be challenging. However, they are essential for the ritual. They are often sold by the Mages Guild.
Finding the Ancient Altar
Once the ingredients have been gathered, the next step is to locate the Altar of Reman. This ancient site is hidden in the deepest reaches of Cyrodiil and holds the key to breaking the vampire’s curse. The exact location of the altar can be found by following the guidance given to you by the priest.
Performing the Ritual and the Cure
Preparing for the Ritual
Upon reaching the altar, you will be presented with the final step. The ritual itself is relatively straightforward, but the steps must be followed carefully to ensure a successful outcome. You must place all the ingredients in the correct positions.
The Ritual Process
The first step is to place the Argonian blood at the base of the Altar. Then, carefully place Aurelia’s ashes in the middle. Finally, put the Grave dust and the potent soul gem. With everything in place, you can interact with the altar to start the ritual.
Experiencing the Cure
If all the steps are completed correctly, a cinematic sequence will trigger, signaling the cure. During the ritual, the player’s character will undergo a transformation, purging the vampiric taint and restoring their mortal form.
Post-Cure Life
After the ritual, your character will no longer be a vampire. You will now be free from the sunlight and fire weaknesses and be able to interact with the world normally.
Additional Considerations
If, during the process of getting the ingredients, you are attacked by vampires, the result of their attack will not change your position. So long as you are not already a vampire, you can rest assured that your quest will be unaffected.
Tips and Tricks for Navigating the Dark Paths
Preventing Vampirism
Preventing vampirism in the first place is always the most desirable option. To avoid contracting the disease, be cautious when encountering vampires. Keep distance and eliminate them quickly.
Early Intervention
If you do contract Sanguinare Vampiris, seek a cure immediately. Early treatment is the key to avoiding full vampirism. Utilize Cure Disease potions to delay the progression.
Nighttime Advantage
If you become a vampire, use the protection of the night to your advantage. Plan your travels accordingly.
Exploiting Weaknesses
When exploring locations with potential vampire encounters, bring fire-based weapons or spells to exploit their weakness.
Timing the Ritual
During the cure quest, be mindful of the time of day. Performing the ritual in daylight will lead to failure.
Seeking Help
If you encounter any problems or difficulties during the quest, don’t hesitate to seek help from other players or consult online resources.
Conclusion: Embrace the Light
Curing vampirism in Oblivion is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can rid yourself of the undead curse. Now, you will once again be able to bask in the sunlight, live freely, and interact with the world without fear. This process gives you a renewed appreciation for your newfound freedom from the bonds of vampirism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quest Failure
What happens if I fail the cure? If the ritual fails, you will remain a vampire, and you will need to start over.
Re-infection
Can I become a vampire again after being cured? Yes, but you will have to contract the disease all over again.
Alternative Cures
Are there any other ways to manage vampirism? You can use potions or spells to temporarily mitigate the effects of vampirism, but these are not a permanent solution.
