The Mages Guild questline in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion presents players with several complex political and tactical challenges. In the quest Information At A Price, players are sent to Skingrad by Arch-Mage Hannibal Traven to gather vital intelligence regarding Mannimarco. Obtaining this critical insight requires negotiating with Count Janus Hassildur, who demands a favor in return before parting with his knowledge.
Starting the Quest and Meeting Count Hassildur
To initiate the quest, speak with Arch-Mage Traven in the Imperial City's Arcane University after completing previous guild assignments. Upon arriving at Castle Skingrad, you must speak with Haldir or Mercator Hosidius to request an audience with Count Hassildur. The Count eventually reveals that his city is plagued by both a group of local vampire hunters and a nest of vampires hiding nearby.
Count Hassildur refuses to share his intelligence until both supernatural threats are resolved without bringing scandal to Skingrad. This setup leaves players with multiple avenues to complete the objective based on their playstyle and character morality. Navigating these interactions carefully ensures you progress without incurring unnecessary bounties or failing guild standards.
Dealing with the Vampire Hunters and Vampires
Players face critical choices when resolving the dual threat in the region. You can choose to eliminate the vampire nest in Bloodcrust Cavern yourself or convince the vampire hunters, led by Eridor, to handle the task. Alternatively, you can inform the hunters of the cavern's location and let both factions battle it out.
For moral or role-playing builds like paladins, killing the hunters outright might violate personal character codes. Telling Eridor about the vampires often prompts the hunters to leave Skingrad peacefully once the threat is neutralized. Ensuring all vampires in Bloodcrust Cavern are destroyed is essential before returning to Castle Skingrad.
Reporting Back and Rewards
Once both the vampires and the hunters have been dealt with, return to Castle Skingrad to meet with Count Hassildur once more. The Count keeps his word and discloses alarming news regarding the King of Worms establishing a presence in Cyrodiil. This revelation sets the stage for the dramatic final acts of the Mages Guild storyline.
Deliver this vital information directly to Hannibal Traven at the Arcane University to complete the mission. Successful completion advances your rank within the guild and unlocks subsequent higher-level quests. Careful decision-making during this quest guarantees a smooth transition into the endgame guild content.
