Unveiling the Unknown: Mind-Blowing Secrets About The Blades in Skyrim!

Highlights

The Blades play important roles in several games in

The Elder Scrolls

series and have a long history on the planet of Nirn.

Formed after the establishment of the Reman Dynasty, the Blades have served as the guardians of Tamriel's emperors. Known for their significant presence in multiple games within the Elder Scrolls series, they have notably featured in Morrowind, Oblivion, and Skyrim, alongside their appearances in other titles within the Elder Scrolls universe. However, their history on the planet of Nirn spans even further than what many players may initially perceive.

The Blades play various roles, such as serving as an intelligence agency or acting as bodyguards. They have a strong connection to the Septim dynasty and the emperors of Tamriel. However, many details about their origin and purpose remain vaguely hinted at.

Updated August 10, 2023 by Jake Fillery: The Blades are a crucial presence in Skyrim and the entire realm of Tamriel. Without them, the Dragonborn would lack knowledge and defense. With a rich history, Skyrim and The Elder Scrolls fans will want to delve into the significance of this esteemed group of warriors and dragon hunters who have safeguarded Tamriel for centuries. While their importance may have been unknown to players before Skyrim, it should not be underestimated. Understanding the Blades' history is essential, whether as an ally, adversary, or a devoted repository of knowledge. As the Dragonborn, players can explore previously unfamiliar aspects of the Blades and empower their minds.

17 Akaviri Invasion

During the First Era, the Akaviri made an attempt to invade Tamriel. Originating from an unknown continent to the east, little is known about them except for what was observed during their invasion. The purpose of their invasion remains a mystery, whether it was to expand their empire, engage in warfare, or simply explore the unknown. Nevertheless, it is understood that they were successfully repelled thanks to the assistance of Lyrisius, the champion of Boethiah. However, like many things in Tamriel, this account is considered a questionable legend.

It was during this initial Akaviri Invasion that the book 'Rise and Fall of the Blades' details the commanding presence of Reman Cyrodiil, whose powerful voice caused the invaders to immediately surrender. Recognizing him as the Dragonborn, the very person they sought to find, the Akaviri joined forces with him and played a crucial role in establishing the Reman Dynasty.

16 Emperor Protectors

The Blades originated during the Reman Dynasty, following the rise of Reman Cyrodiil as Emperor after the Battle of Pale Pass. During this battle, Tamriel was devastated by the First Akaviri Invasion, until the Dragonborn, Reman Cyrodiil, used his formidable power to convince the Akaviri to surrender willingly.

From the early days of the Reman Dynasty, the Akaviri armies have been sworn to protect the Dragonborn and his bloodline. This explains why they continued to serve and safeguard the subsequent Emperors, regardless of whether they possessed the power of the Thu’um.

15 Failed To Protect Uriel Septim The 7th

The Blades, known for their role as personal guards and the protection of the Emperor, experienced a significant failure during the Oblivion Crisis. This event marked the end of the Third Era, resulting in the loss of the Dragonborn's loyal agents and leaving them without purpose or direction. This failure and their subsequent vulnerability weakened them in the face of their greatest threat, the Thalmor.

14 Hunted By The Thalmor

It would be logical for the Thalmor to attempt to eliminate any remaining members of the Blades. The Blades were skilled, proud, and formidable warriors who could easily protect themselves and the Dragonborn, devoting their lives to the Empire. Once the Thalmor gained power, they targeted the Blades as major threats, leading to their pursuit by the Aldmeri Dominion for many years.

These Altmer supremacists aim to prohibit the worship of Talos and forcibly disband the Blades. Whether this is because the Blades have close connections to Talos or because they served as valuable espionage assets for the Empire. Without the Blades, the Thalmor would have unchecked freedom with minimal political consequences.

13 Cyrodiil Headquarters

Sky Haven Temple, located in Skyrim, used to serve as the abandoned stronghold of the Blades. Although their primary operating base was in Cyrodiil, the Cloud Ruler Temple was where the rich history of the Blades unfolded. It witnessed the inception of the Dragonguards and Reman Dynasty, and bore witness to the final chapters of the Septim Dynasty and the Blades.

Regrettably, the once significant Cyrodiil base was ravaged by the relentless Third Aldmeri Dominion, resulting in the massacre of all its inhabitants. It remains a distant hope that the Blades will one day regain their strength and reclaim the temple. However, their stubborn refusal to evolve without the demise of Paarthurnax, coupled with their arrogant mentality, diminishes the likelihood of such a resurgence.

12 Acilius Bolar

An esteemed member of the Blades who deserves utmost recognition is Acilius Bolar. He met his honorable demise while bravely battling the Aldmeri Dominion. Bolar stands as the solitary survivor of the ruthless Thalmor assault on the Blade's central stronghold, Cloud Ruler Temple. Following this devastating event, he journeyed to Skyrim, leaving behind his renowned sword, Oathblade, and a written testament at the statue of Talos located in Bloated Man's Grotto.

The fate of Acilius Bolar represents just one of the many concealed tragedies that befell the Blades, whose existence and rich heritage were nearly decimated by the Thalmor. Now, placing their hopes upon the Last Dragonborn, the Blades strive to reclaim their former glory and restore the purpose and historical significance of their ancient order. In this noble pursuit, it is fervently hoped that Acilius Bolar's name will forever be etched within the annals of remembrance.

11 Hate Of The Greybeards

There is a significant lack of trust between the Greybeards and the Blades. The Greybeards, led by Paarthurnax, who is a dragon, dedicate themselves to studying and meditating on the ancient dragon language known as the Way of the Voice. This belief clashes with the Blades' ambition for a world free of dragons, leading them to view the Greybeards as a mere cult hindering the Dragonborn's journey to unlock their true potential.

On the other hand, the Greybeards perceive the Blades as untrustworthy individuals who divert the Dragonborn from their true purpose and the path of the Way of the Voice. This deep-rooted distrust and lack of respect between the two factions create tension, leaving the Dragonborn with the difficult decision of choosing between them.

10 The Paarthurnax Problem

This ultimatum arises from the conflict surrounding Paarthurnax, the leader of the Greybeards and an ancient dragon residing on the Throat of the World. Once a formidable ally of Alduin, Paarthurnax renounced his evil ways in favor of meditation and peace. However, the Blades view him as a foe who has eluded justice.

The Last Dragonborn faces a significant decision in Skyrim - whether to kill Paarthurnax. This choice presents a genuine ethical dilemma. Should they forsake the Blades, an organization dedicated to serving the Dragonborn? Or should they betray the Greybeards and effectively eradicate their teachings by eliminating their immortal leader? This quandary has troubled many and exposes the shallow and misguided beliefs of the Blades.

9 Had Different Member Rankings

The organization consists of three primary ranks. The initial rank, known as Knight Brother/Knight Sister, comprises the majority of The Blades' personnel and is assigned to all new initiates.

Following them are the Chroniclers, entrusted with the task of safeguarding The Blades' missions in secrecy and ensuring that such valuable information is never misplaced. Lastly, the Grandmasters assume the responsibility of recruiting fresh knights.

8 Used Akaviri Armor & Weapons

The Blades have strong ties to non-Tamriel sources, particularly during the later parts of the First Era when Tamriel faced an invasion from the snake-people of Tsaesci, hailing from the eastern continent of Akavir. Despite the Empire of Cyrodiil's small size at the time, they managed to defeat the Tsaesci. Recognizing their strength and potential for an alliance, the emperor of Tamriel, Reman I, pardoned many of the former foes and granted them influential positions in court and the military. This proved advantageous for the empire in the long term.

As a result, the emperor's surroundings absorbed numerous Akaviri traits, both biological and cultural. The Blades, in particular, assimilated these influences and became the protectors of the emperor until the conclusion of the Third Era.

7 Are Referenced By Skyrim's Dragon Scale Armor

The Akaviri armor worn by The Blades closely resembles samurai attire from the real world, but there are also similarities to the dragon-scale armor that players can craft in Skyrim. The hip and upper leg protection, as well as the guards on the forearms and the abdominal area's plating, bear a striking resemblance to The Blades' warriors in Oblivion. Additionally, the helmets are designed to cover the entire head while leaving the facial areas exposed.

6 Were Established During The Second Era

In the world of The Elder Scrolls, the events of Skyrim occur in the Fourth Era, while the events of Oblivion take place in the Third Era. As an ancient organization, The Blades carry a rich tapestry of history and legends.

During the Second Era, The Blades played a paramount role in aiding Emperor Tiber Septim in the Battle of Sancre Tor. This fierce conflict saw Cyrodiil's forces pitted against the Nords from Skyrim and the Bretons from High Rock. Through their assistance, The Blades contributed to Cyrodiil emerging as the victorious force.

5 Aided The Nerevarine

In The Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind, the game begins with the player as a prisoner. As the story progresses, The Blades discover that the player is actually the foretold reincarnation of a legendary hero named the "Nerevarine". Alongside The Blades, the player, in the role of the Nerevarine, tackles the challenges that plague the province.

4 Failed An Invasion Of Akavir

In the early years of the Third Era, Emperor Uriel Septim 5th assigned The Blades with a grave mission. With ambitions to extend his dominion beyond Tamriel, the emperor set his sights on the distant eastern continent of Akavir. He entrusted The Blades with the task of gathering information about this uncharted land, but their efforts were somewhat lacking. Upon their return to Tamriel, they presented reports suggesting that the conquest of the Tsaesci, a land in Akavir, would be relatively straightforward.

Unquestioning of this intelligence, Septim initiated an expedition to conquer Akavir. The plan involved establishing a stronghold in the Tsaesci lands. However, the endeavor did not unfold as expected. Adverse weather conditions tormented a significant portion of the invading forces, while the Tsaesci serpent-men proved to be far more formidable than initially anticipated. They successfully repelled Tamriel's troops, forcing them to retreat back to the sea.

3 Parted Ways With The Emperors

The cataclysmic events at the end of Oblivion shattered the line of emperors. Formed during the reign of Tiber Septim, the Blades had served every Septim who ascended the throne since the Second Era. However, when Martin Septim died in his epic battle against the Daedric Prince Mehrunes Dagon, this bloodline and the Third Era came to an end. With the absence of Septim emperors to support, the Blades chose to abandon their assistance to the rulers of Tamriel and instead focused on their traditional duty of slaying dragons.

2 Make Potions From Dragon Remains

After finding Alduin's Wall and completing other crucial main quests, the Dragonborn has the opportunity to embark on a fresh quest by conversing with Esbern, The Blades scholar, within Sky Haven Temple located in The Reach. Requesting the assistance of the player, the elder will task them with obtaining both a dragon scale and a dragon bone in order to create a remarkable and potent potion.

Once the ingredients are brought back, Esbern will skillfully brew a unique concoction that bestows upon the Dragonborn a formidable advantage, granting them a 25% resistance against the powerful melee attacks launched by any dragon.

1 Appear In Their Own Game

Bethesda made the peculiar marketing decision to primarily focus on mobile devices for The Elder Scrolls: Blades. Although the game has been made available on consoles through VR and the Nintendo Switch, it has not received the same widespread release as other titles in the Elder Scrolls franchise.

As a result, this entry in the series did not attract much attention from fans. However, some players had the opportunity to once again assume the role of a Brother/Sister Knight in The Elder Scrolls: Blades.

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is available now on PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.