Inoffiziell:Interview mit drei Schriftstellern

Greetings, Master S'Reddit - as you can see, we are here. Thank you for arranging this meeting with these great authors. I am certain that this roundtable interview will prove to be a very informative experience. But first, let me introduce myself and my colleagues.

I, as you already know, am Xanathar. This -

Xanathar looked towards the Imperial standing to his left.

Grüße, Meister S'Reddit - Wie Ihr sehen könnt sind wir hier. Vielen Dank für das Arrangieren des Treffens mit den drei großartigen Autoren. Ich bin sicher dass sich das Interview als eine sehr informative Erfahrung herausstellen wird. Aber zuerst, lasst mich und meine Kollegen euch vorstellen.

Ich bin, wie Ihr bereits wisst, Xanathar. Das -

Xanathar schaute zu dem Kaiserlichen auf der linken Seite.

- Is Attrebus, an Imperial Scholar, former student of the late S'Triker.

Attrebus bowed.

- Ist Attrebus, ein kaiserlicher Gelehrter, ehemaliger Schüler des verstorbenen S'Triker.

Attrebus verbeugte sich.

And this -

Xanathar looked towards the High Elf to his right.

Und das -

Xanathar schaute zu dem Hochelf zu seiner Rechten.

- Is B.

B nodded.

- Ist B.

B nickte.

And the one behind me is Sinder.

Sinder nodded as well.

Und der hinter mir ist Sinder.

Sinder nickte ebenfalls.

The man on the left -

S'Reddit gestured to a jovial, jowly Breton.

Der Mann zu meiner Linken -

S'Reddit zeigte zu einem heiteren und munteren Bretonen.

Surely needs no introduction. Waughin Jarth has been a literary treasure of Tamriel for decades, one of our most celebrated, most prolific writers, having graced us with "The Asylum Ball", "Dance in Fire", "The Wolf Queen", "Feyfolken" and many others. Baloth-Kul -

The agent continued, and a Dark Elf who was curiously plump for one of his race nodded at his name.

Benötigt sicher keine Erklärung. Waughin Jarth war Jahrzehnte ein literarischer Schatz von Tamriel, einer unserer meist gefeierten, überaus produktiven Autoren, der uns mit "Argonischer Bericht", "Ein Tanz im Feuer", "Die Wolfskönigin", "Feyfolken" und vielen anderen beschenkte. Baloth-Kul -

Der Agent setze fort und ein Dunkelelf, der seltsam dick für einen seiner Rasse war, nickte bei seinem Namen.

This genius's first play, "The Horror at Castle Xyr", has already made him famous throughout the land. Not since Gor Felim has a playwright so captured the imagination of the dark fantasy of the audience. Last but certainly, certainly not least -

S'Reddit concluded with the introduction of the tall, serious Breton on the right.

Das erste Stück dieses Genies, "Das Grauen auf Burg Xyr", hat ihn bereits im ganzen Land berühmt gemacht. Nicht weil Gor Felim als Stückeschreiber die Vorstellung der dunklen Fantasien des Publikum einfing. Nicht zuletzt -

S'Reddit schloss mit der Einleitung des großen, ernsten Bretonen auf der rechten Seite ab.

Carlovac Townway, author of "2920: The Last Year of The First Era", a historian turned writer, whose justly famous series has earned its place in the literary canon of the Empire. Esteemed Librarians and Scholars Attrebus, B, Sinder, and Xanathar, please ask these shining stars of the literati any questions you have about their past and future work.

The Khajiit finished with a formal bow and everyone sat down.

Carlovac Townway, Autor von "2920", ein sich der Geschichte zugewendeter Autor, dessen mit Recht berühmte Reihe seinen Platz in dem literarischen Kanon des Kaiserreichs verdient hat. Angesehene Bibliothekare und Gelehrter Attrebus, B, Sinder und Xanathar, fragt diese strahlende Sterne der literarisch Gebildeten bitte jede Frage über deren vergangenen und zukünftigen Werke die Ihr habt.

Der Khajiit endete mit einer formalen Verbeugung und jeder setzte sich hin.

Can I get a drink?

Waughin, Carlovac, and Baloth-Kul ordered copious amounts of food and drink. S'Reddit was not that happy about it, since he knew he'd be footing the bill. Reaching up, B took hold of his hood and removed it. His hair was slightly disheveled, but after a quick smoothing with his hands, he looked presentable.

Kann ich ein Getränk bekommen?

Waughin, Carlovac und Baloth-Kul bestellten massenhaft Essen und Trinken. S'Reddit war darüber nicht froh, da er wusste, die Rechnung zahlen zu müssen. Beim Wind hielt B seinen Hut fest und nahm ihn ab. Sein Haar war leicht zersaust, aber nach einem schnellen Glätten mit seiner Hat sah er vorzeigbar aus.

This is very fascinating. Gentlemen, how nice it is to finally meet all of you in person. Let me start by saying that as a Librarian and a Scholar, I am a big fan of all your works. In fact, we are all humbled by your presence.

Das ist sehr faszinierend. Gentleman, wie schön es ist euch alle endlich persönlich zu treffen. Lass mich zuerst sagen, dass ich als Bibliothekar und Gelehrter ein großer Anhänger von all Euren Arbeiten bin.

This is very fascinating. Gentlemen, how nice it is to finally meet all of you in person. Let me start by saying that as a Librarian and a Scholar, I am a big fan of all your works. Vielmehr sind wir alle demötig bei Eurer Gegenwart.

I know that the Librarians have enjoyed all of your previous works, and I have a general question to all of the authors. What drew each of you to become a writer?

Ich weiß dass den Bibliothekare all unsere Arbeit gefallen hat und ich habe eine generelle Frage an all diese Autoren. Was hat jeden von Euch dazu gebracht ein Schriftsteller zu werden?

I write purely for my own amusement. Always have.

The people at the table were brought the food and drink they had ordered.

Ich schreibe nur für mein persönliches Vergnügen. Das habe ich immer getan.

Den Leuten am Tisch wurde das bestellte Essen und Trinken gebracht.

I've had theater in my blood my whole life. My mother was a great actress, and my father was an architect with a specialty in stage design. Of course, like all children, I also loved arena fights for all their blood and drama. That is why my chosen genre often leans towards the macabre, the violent. The ghastliness of life has always attracted me.

Ich hatte Theater mein gesamtes Leben lang im Blut. Meine Mutter war eine großartige Schauspielerin und mein Vater ein Architekt mit dem Fachgebiet in der Bühnengestaltung. Wie alle Kinder, habe ich natürlich auch die Arenakämpfe für all ihr Blut und Drama geliebt. Das ist der Grund, weshalb sich mein bevorzugtes Genre häufig an das Makabere und Brutale anlehnt. Die Grausamkeit des Lebens hat mich schon immer angezogen.

As S'Reddit said, I have been a historian for many years, and always fascinated by the people and situations of the distant past. I had over the decades done much research on the end of the First Era, the downfall of the Reman Dynasty, and I wanted to share it, and not just with my fellow academics. Writing is a chore for me - I get much more pleasure out of research than putting quill to scroll. But I think it's necessary for people to know whither we came, so we might know, or guess, where we are going.

Wie S’Reddit schon sagte, war ich viele Jahre lang ein Historiker und schon immer von den Leuten und Situationen der fernen Vergangenheit fasziniert. Ich habe über die Jahrzehnte viele Forschungen über das Ende der Ersten Ära angestellt, dem Niedergang der Reman-Dynastie und ich wollte mein Wissen teilen und dies nicht nur mit meinen Akademikerkollegen. Schreiben ist für mich eine lästige Pflicht – Es macht mir viel mehr Vergnügen zu Forschen, als mit einem Federkiel auf eine Schriftrolle nieder zu schreiben. Aber ich denke, dass es für die Leute notwendig ist zu wissen, woher wir kommen, denn so wissen wir vielleicht, oder können vermuten, wohin wir gehen werden.

Would you be so kind as to inform us of your latest endeavors? We have enjoyed your previous works, and we anxious await any information you may have on what you are currently working on or have recently finished.

Wäret Ihr so freundlich, uns über Eure letzten Arbeiten zu informieren? Wir haben uns an Euren vorigen Werken erfreut und erwarten jegliche Informationen gespannt, die Ihr möglicherweise über das habt, an dem Ihr gegenwärtig arbeitet oder das Ihr unlängst fertig gestellt habt.

Oh, so many projects. I like to have four books going at once, so I'm never bored. A continuation of Decumus Scotti's adventures is nearly complete. And I'm very happy with a book called "The Exodus" about the Necromancers and the Mages Guild which should be published fairly soon... Though I cannot stop editing...

Ach, so viele Projekte. Ich mag es, vier Bücher auf einmal zu bearbeiten, so bin ich niemals gelangweilt. Eine Fortsetzung von Decumus Scottis Abenteuern ist nahezu fertig und ich bin mit einem Buch sehr zufrieden, das "Der Exodus" heißt und von Nekromanten und der Magiergilde handelt, welches ziemlich bald veröffentlicht werden sollte... Allerdings kann ich nicht aufhören zu arbeiten...

Some time ago, I was passing through the town of Cheydinhal and I heard a tale about a house there that absolutely terrified me. I do not have a title yet for the play, but I've completed a first draft and begun talking with the Actors Guild about staging a performance.

Vor einiger Zeit ging ich durch Cheydinhal und hörte eine Erzählung über ein Haus dort, die mich vollkommen erschreckte. Ich habe noch keinen Titel für das Stück, aber ich habe bereits einen ersten Entwurf fertig gestellt und begonnen mit der Schauspielergilde über die Inszenierung einer Aufführung zu reden.

I have not begun writing anything at the moment. I have begun researching.

Ich habe im Moment nicht begonnen etwas zu schreiben. Ich habe mit dem Forschen angefangen.

Perhaps you could whet their appetite by revealing the nature of your research?

Vielleicht könnt Ihr den Appetit der Leser anregen, indem Ihr etwas über die Natur Eurer Forschungen offenbart?

Well, the smaller project is a compilation of Uriel V's letters from Akavir.

Gut, das kleinere Projekt ist eine Zusammenstellung der Briefe von Uriel V aus Akavir.

And "2E 896: The Last Year of The Second Era"?

Carlovac frowned.

Und "2Ä 896: Das letzte Jahr der Zweiten Ära"?

Carlovac runzelte die Stirn.

What do you enjoy the most about being writers?

Was mögt Ihr am meisten daran, ein Schriftsteller zu sein?

I enjoy sitting in my audience and hearing them scream.

Ich mag es in meinem Publikum zu sitzen und sie schreien zu hören.

I write entirely for my own amusement, and that of a few friends perhaps. Fortunately, I have been successful enough to be able to do it for a living, but even if I didn't, I'd still be writing. I just have too many stories I want to tell myself, and I don't mind that others listen in.

Ich schreibe vollkommen zu meiner eigenen Unterhaltung und vielleicht für einige Freunde. Glücklicherweise war ich erfolgreich genug, davon leben zu können, aber selbst wenn ich es nicht könnte, würde ich dennoch schreiben. Ich habe einfach zu viele Geschichten, die ich mir erzählen will und ich habe nichts dagegen, wenn andere mithören.

I don't enjoy being a writer in the least. I enjoy researching, compiling, working on theories, investigating those theories, finding common threads, and every aspect of my life and work, except the actual writing and publishing. If I could, I would research, and never share.

Ich finde nicht im geringsten Gefallen daran ein Schriftsteller zu sein. Ich mag es zu forschen, zusammenstellen, an Theorien zu arbeiten, diese Theorien zu untersuchen, gebräuchliche Diskussionsfäden zu finden und in jedem Aspekt meines Lebens zu arbeiten, bis auf das derzeitige Schreiben und Veröffentlichen. Wenn ich könnte, würde ich forschen und nie wieder veröffentlichen.

Very interesting. I wonder, though... How much of what you write is fiction and how much is fact? No offense meant - I have no doubts that your research is exhaustive and thorough, and I respect each of you greatly - but some writers are slightly prone to exaggerations.

Sehr interessant, ich wundere mich allerdings... Wie viel von dem, was Ihr schreibt ist Fiktion und wie viel ist Tatsache? Das ist nicht beleidigend gemeint – Ich habe keine Zweifel daran, dass Eure Nachforschungen eingehend und gründlich sind und ich respektiere jeden von Euch außerordentlich – aber einige Schreiber sind ein wenig anfällig für Übertreibungen.

Entirely fiction, and entirely true.

Vollkommen Fiktion und vollkommen wahr.

That's a very difficult question. If by "fiction", you mean completely invented out of my imagination, absolutely none of it is fiction. There's some conjecture based on research, certainly, and any events that take place in the distant past are open to interpretation. I could not say with certainty what the precise words of a conversation between the Duke of Morrowind and his mistress Turala, for example, but I know who she was, who he was, and where the conversation led... I would not consider that 'fiction,' because I believe that they are true, if not exact.

Dies ist eine sehr schwere Frage. Wenn Ihr mit "Fiktion" meint, dass ich es mir vollkommen in meiner Vorstellung ausgedacht habe, ist absolut nichts von dem fiktiv. Es gibt einige Vermutungen, auf Forschungen basierend, allerdings sind jegliche Ereignisse die in der fernen Vergangenheit stattgefunden haben, offen für Interpretationen. Ich kann nicht mit Gewissheit sagen, was zum Beispiel die genauen Worte des Gespräches zwischen dem Herzog von Morrowind und seiner Geliebten Turala waren, aber ich weiß, wer sie war, wer er war und wo das Gespräch geführt wurde... Ich würde dies nicht als 'Fiktion' auffassen, weil ich glaube, dass es wahr ist, wenn auch nicht exakt so.

I could not claim to do the same research as my friend Carlovac, but I do like to take my inspiration from historical figures. Obviously, the Wolf Queen Potema and Pelagius the Mad existed -- There are people who still live who knew them. Decumus Scotti is a real person, but I changed his name for obvious reasons. But my books aren't history books. They're meant to be entertaining.

Ich kann mir nicht anmaßen zu sagen, dass ich die gleichen Forschungen wie mein Freund Carvolac betreibe, aber ich mag es, meine Inspirationen von historischen Figuren zu nehmen. Offensichtlich haben die Wolfskönigin Potema und Pelagius der Wahnsinnige existiert -- Es gibt Leute, die immer noch leben, die mit diesen vertraut waren. Decumus Scotti ist eine reale Person, aber ich habe seinen Namen aus naheliegenden Gründen getauscht. Aber meine Bücher sind keine Geschichtsbücher. Sie sind dafür gedacht, zu unterhalten.

Where do you get your information and ideas? Do you research books, conduct interviews, and/or travel around Tamriel? For example, Waughin Jarth, one report states that Scotti's latest adventure has him traveling through the swamps of Black Marsh? Did you actually travel to Black Marsh for inspiration, and if so, did you find yourself in any precarious situations?

Woher bekommt Ihr eure Informationen und Ideen? Forscht Ihr in Bücher, führt Ihr Interviews und/oder reist Ihr in Tamriel herum? Zum Beispiel Waughin Jarth, ein Bericht führt an, dass Scottis letztes Abenteuer ihn durch die Sümpfe der Schwarzmarsch reisen lassen hat? Seid Ihr überhaupt in die Schwarzmarsch für Inspirationen gereist und wenn dem so ist, habt ihr euch in brenzligen Situationen befunden?

Oh, I haven't been anywhere in Black Marsh but Gideon, and everyone knows that that's the most Imperialized city in the province. I have to admit that I identify with Decumus Scotti and his cowardice more than I ought to. I did spend some time in Valenwood as a child, though, so I know many of the locations in 'A Dance In Fire' first hand. That said, I know many, many Imperials who have traveled in Black Marsh, and can attest that I've gotten the descriptions right.

Oh, ich war nirgends in der Schwazmarsch, aber in Gideon und jeder weiß, dass dies die imperialisierteste Stadt in der Provinz ist. Ich muss gestehen, dass ich mich mit Decumus Scotti identifiziere und dass seine Feigheit größer ist, als ich dachte. Ich habe als Kind einige Zeit in Valenwald verbracht, allerdings kenne ich auf diese Weise viele Orte aus Erster Hand nur aus 'Ein Tanz im Feuer'. Dies bedeutet, dass ich viele, viele Kaiserliche kenne, die in die Schwarzmarsch gereist sind und kann bestätigen, dass ich die Beschreibungen korrekt getroffen habe.

Gideon has changed quite a bit over the years. It was quite a small town when the Empress was imprisoned just out of there in 2920.

Gideon hat sich durchaus ein wenig über die Jahre verändert. Es war eine ziemlich kleine Stadt als die Kaiserin dort im Jahre 2920 eingekerkert wurde.

Master Baloth-Kul, your play of The Horror of Castle Xyr is shocking - But it is, indeed, great. Is there any way you could tell us what happened to Iachilla Xyr? Will you ever make a sequel?

As a sidenote, have you ever seen the play "The Lusty Argonian Maid" by Crassius Curio?

Meister Baloth-Kul, euer Stück Das Grauen auf Burg Xyr war schockierend – Aber es ist in der Tat großartig. Gibt es irgendwelche Möglichkeiten, dass Ihr uns erzählen könnt, was mit Iachilla Xyr weiter geschehen ist? Wollt Ihr jemals eine Fortsetzung schreiben?

Als Randbemerkung, habt Ihr jemals das Stück „Die muntere Argonische Maid“ von Crassius Curio gesehen?

Thank you. The romantic in me hopes that Iachilla Xyr is somewhere out there, still involved in good works. There has, of course, been call for a sequel, but that has never interested me very much. I think it would by definition be inferior to the original, containing less shock and surprise. The new one I'm finishing about the haunted house should be just as enjoyable if not more so than Castle Xyr... And yes, I did attend a private showing of Sera Curio's play, in which --

Danke. Die Romantik in mir hofft, dass Iachilla Xyr irgendwo da draußen ist, immer noch in gute Arbeiten eingebunden. Natürlich war da eine Forderung nach einer Fortsetzung, aber das hat mich nie sonderlich interessiert. Ich denke, es würde definitionsgemäß im Vergleich zum Original minderwertig werden und weniger Schock und Überraschung beinhalten. Das neue Stück über das Spukhaus, das ich fertig gestellt habe, sollte ebenso amüsant, wenn nicht sogar noch mehr wie Burg Xyr werden... Und ja, ich habe einer privaten Vorführung von Sera Curios Stück beigewohnt, in welcher --

You mean, you didn't attend a private showing of Curio's play, right?

Ihr meint, Ihr habt nicht einer privaten Vorführung von Curios Stück beigewohnt, richtig?

...Yes, of course. I have never seen The Lusty Argonian Maid being performed with great enthusiasm. Pure pornography is what I would call it if I had seen it, which I haven't. And if I had, it was shocking.

...Ja, allerdings. Ich habe niemals Die muntere Argonische Maid gesehen, wie sie mit großem Enthusiasmus inszeniert wurde. Reine Pornografie ist es, wie ich es nennen würde, wenn ich es gesehen hätte, was ich allerdings nicht getan habe. Und wenn ich es hätte, wäre es schockierend gewesen.

Baloth-Kul, you mentioned the town of Cheydinhal and a story of a haunted mansion there. I was wondering if you could give us any more details on this, as in what province is this town in, and do you think the mansion actually exists?

Baloth-Kul, Ihr erwähntet Cheydinhal und die Geschichte von dem Spukhaus dort. Ich habe mich gewundert, wenn ihr uns irgendwelche weiteren Details darüber geben könntet, wie, in welcher Provinz diese Stadt ist und ob Ihr glaubt, dass die Villa wirklich existiert?

Let's not give the name of the house yet. We have to leave some surprises, after all.

Verratet aber noch nicht den Namen des Hauses. Wir müssen letzten Endes noch einige Überraschungen zurückbehalten.

Oh, it most certainly exists, and the locals certainly believe it is haunted. Not only does it exist, but my play describes the layout with exactitude. It's not a mansion exactly, but a decent sized house. You haven't been to Cheydinhal in Cyrodiil?

Oh, es existiert natürlich und die Einheimischen glauben zweifelsohne, dass es verflucht ist. Nicht nur, dass es existiert, sondern mein Stück beschreibt gründlich den Aufbau. Es ist nicht wirklich eine Villa, aber ein Haus anständiger Größe. Wart Ihr nie in Cheydinhal in Cyrodiil?

Master Jarth, can you tell us more about "The Exodus"? Is this book about Mannimarco, by any chance? I'd like to read more about what he did following the Warp in the West.

Meister Jarth, könnt Ihr uns mehr über "Der Exodus" erzählen? Ist es zufällig ein Buch über Mannimarco? Ich würde gerne mehr darüber lesen, welche Ziele er nach der Verwerfung im Westen verfolgte.

Since the book is still being edited and hasn't been published yet, it would be unfair to tell too much --

Da das Buch immer noch bearbeitet wird und noch nicht veröffentlicht wurde, wäre es ungerecht, zu viel zu erzählen --

The Warp in the West?

Die Verwerfung im Westen?

The Miracle of Peace as ordained by the Nine I think he means.

Ich denke, er meint das Wunder des Friedes, wie es von den Neun bestimmt worden ist.

Oh, I don't know much about that. Metaphysics have never been my area of expertise. I wouldn't know what happened to Mannimarco. Frankly, the mighty have never interested me. It's the tragedy and triumph of the little people I like to explore, and their relationship with the great powers of the Empire is only a background. I don't care much about Vanus Galerion and Mannimarco and their squabbles, but the simple Necromancers and their relationship with their cousins the Mages, therein lies drama to which I can relate. So, no, if you're interested in Mannimarco and whether he had an apotheosis as some believe, you will have to turn elsewhere in your research.

Oh, Ich weiß nicht viel davon. Methaphysik war nie mein Fachgebiet. Ich würde gar nicht wissen, was mit Mannimarco geschehen ist. Offen gesagt, das Mächtige hat mich nie interessiert. Es ist die Tragödie und der Triumph der keinen Leute, die ich gerne erforsche und deren Beziehungen zu den großen Kräften des Kaiserreiches ist lediglich eine Grundlage. Ich interessiere mich nicht besonders für Vanus Galerion, Mannimarco und deren Plänkeleien, aber die einfachen Nekromanten und deren Beziehung zu ihren Cousins, den Magiern, darin liegt Drama, wovon ich berichten kann. Also, falls Ihr Euch für Mannimarco interessiert, ob er eine Vergötterung als eine Art Glauben hatte, dann müsst Ihr Euch bei Euren Recherchen woanders hin drehen.

I have always been fascinated with history, which is why I am a great fan of Master Townway's works.

Xanathar turned towards Carlovac.

Ich war immer von der Geschichte fasziniert, weshalb ich ein großer Bewunderer von Meister Townways Arbeiten bin.

Xanathar kehrte sich zu Carlovac zu.

Master Townway, I have a question regarding your famous "1E 2920: The Last Year of The First Era", a question related to the late Sotha Sil - who I would have loved to meet personally one day, but alas, I will never be able to do that. Actually, I have many questions related to Sotha Sil, but more than anything else I would like to ask you about his deal with the Daedric Princes. Can you tell us more about it? Some Scholars believe that the deal was nullified with the death of Sotha Sil, but I believe that the deal had already been voided by the time the Four Score War was over.

Meister Townway, Ich habe eine Frage Euer bedeutendes "1Ä 2920: Das letzte Jahr der Ersten Ära" betreffend, eine Frage in Bezug auf den späten Sotha Sil - den, den ich selbst eines Tages sehr gerne getroffen hätte, aber ach, ich werde niemals in der Lage dazu sein. Eigentlich habe ich viele Fragen in Bezug auf Sotha Sil, aber mehr als alles andere sonst, würde ich Euch gerne nach seinem Abkommen mit den Daedrischen Prinzen fragen. Könnt Ihr uns mehr darüber erzählen? Einige Studenten glauben, dass das Abkommen mit dem Tod von Sotha Sil aufgehoben wurde, aber ich glaube, dass das Abkommen bereits in der Zeit, nachdem der Achtzigjährige Kriege vorbei war, aufgehoben wurde.

I can tell you about the past as a historian, but I do not know what the future holds. Sotha Sil did go to Oblivion after Dro'Zel, the king of Senchal summoned Molag Bal to destroy the Valenwood kingdom of Gilverdale. Beginning in that point in history, with very few exceptions, rulers ceased their dealings with the Daedric Princes. Now, it wasn't because rulers ceased to desire power and the destruction of their enemies, so it would seem that Sotha Sil's bargain did hold. If I knew exactly what he had promised the Princes in return, I would have recorded it. I did not purposefully leave it out of the narrative for the purpose of mystery and drama. The Psijics almost certainly know more, but they permitted me only limited research in Artaeum.

Als Historiker kann ich Euch über die Vergangenheit berichten, aber ich weiß nicht, was die Zukunft bereit hält. Sotha Sil ist nach Dro’Zel, dem König von Senchal, der Molag Bal beschworen hatte, um das valenwaldische Königreich von Gilverdale zu zerstören, nach Oblivion/in das Reich des Vergessens gegangen. An diesem Punkt der Geschichte beginnend, mit einigen wenigen Ausnahmen, stellten die Herrscher ihre Abkommen mit den Daedrischen Prinzen ein. Nun, es war nicht, dass die Herrscher ihr Begehren nach Macht und die Vernichtung ihrer Feinde einstellten, nein, so würde es aussehen, als ob Sotha Sils Abmachung halten würde. Wenn ich gewusst hätte, was er sich von den Prinzen im Gegenzug versprach, hätte ich es aufgezeichnet. Ich habe es nicht absichtlich aus der Erzählung zum Zweck des Mysteriums und Dramas heraus gelassen. Allerdings wussten die Psijics fast mehr, aber sie erlaubten mir nur begrenzte Nachforschungen in Artaeum.

One thing that has intrigued me are the descriptions given of the Tsaeci and the Maormer. Since I have not met these elusive races in person, how accurate are the descriptions? In other words, have you met a member of these races and that's where the descriptions came from, or did you make an educated guess based on what you've heard?

Of course my client has never met with any Akaviri, Maormeri, or any other enemy of the Empire.

There are very old warriors, survivors of Uriel V's ill-fated invasion, and they told me what they saw. I stand by my descriptions that the Akavir Potentates were serpentine, not only in temperament, but in physical appearance. Even if I did not have witnesses, there are too many descriptions of them as snakes to assume that all writers used the same metaphor. There is much in Redguard history which suggests ancient connections to the Tsaesci as well. Not only are many of the greatest heroes clearly influenced by Akaviri as well as Redguard culture - Gaiden Shinji, for example - But the whole cult of Satakal and the dungeon called Fang Lair... It is too coincidental. We are a rare generation in Tamriel, when few of us have seen any denizen of Akavir. I suspect that we're lucky in that. The Maormer are a minor race, and don't interest me at all.

My esteemed colleague would be well-advised to talk to survivors of the War of the Isle, and he might change his mind. I think some of what I was told was exaggerated, and since my purpose in writing Wolf Queen was to describe Potema's life and ambitions and not necessarily to describe the details of Orgnum and his navy, I left out some details that may be questionable. The sea creatures at their command are the stuff of nightmares. It's a jolly good thing they have not be inclined towards invading us in recent years.

Based on your writings, both of you seemed to be well versed in the Psijic Order. And looking through Tamriellic history, the Psijic Order's influence seems to have waxed and waned. Carlovac Townway, in "1E 2920: The Last Year of The First Era", you documented the Order late in the First Era, during the time of Iachesis. You also discussed some of the events that occurred on Artaeum at that time. Later on in that writing, you led us to believe that Iachesis felt it was time for the Psijics leave for a while. As we all know, Artaeum did, in fact, return. Waughin Jarth, you discussed in "The Wolf Queen" how, in 3E 110, Emperor Antiochus asked the Psijic Order for help in defending the west coast of Tamriel. You go on to discuss how the Order caught wind of a meeting between King Orgnum and Queen Potema of Solitude, and how they sent a group of gray cloaks, led by Loremaster Celarus, to pay a visit to the Queen. To make a long story short, the fleet of the Pyandoneans had been utterly destroyed by a storm that had appeared suddenly off the Isle of Artaeum. And finally, the author Taurce il-Anselma adds to the point when he said in "Fragment: On Artaeum": "The Council's influence in Tamrielan politics is tidal…Emperor Uriel V was much influenced by the Council in the early, most glorious parts of his reign, before his disastrous attack on Akavir." But he also reminds us that "The last four emperors, Uriel VI, Morihatha, Pelagius IV, and Uriel VII, have been suspicious of the Psijics enough to refuse ambassadors from the Isle of Artaeum within the Imperial City."

Perhaps you can elaborate on the historical significance of the Psijic Order? I'm sure both of you have some thoughts on this subject. For example, Carlovac Townway, you mentioned Emperor Uriel V's letters from Akavir. Taurce il-Anselma implies that the Order had a lot to do with the "early, glorious part of his reign" before the "disastrous attack". Are we to believe that Emperor Uriel V refused to be counseled and attacked Akavir anyway? Or did the Order suggest an attack, and when it failed, the Emperor refused to listen to them any longer?

Also, could you please describe what you believe is the Order's role today? Do they even have one? Taurce il-Anselma stated that the last four emperor have refused ambassadors, but rumor has is that Loremaster Celarus has been seeking an audience with Emperor Uriel VII himself.

The Psijics! The Psijics! Let me tell you something - I think their big secret hidden behind all their mystery and obfuscation is that they're very, very dull. Nothing has happened on Artaeum of the least interest since the days of Galerion and Mannimarco.

Carlovac Townway and Waughin Jarth looked at Baloth-Kul curiously, and then spoke.

Again, my area of expertise is history, not current or future events, so I could not say what business Celarus has with our Emperor, or what the current relationship, if any, is between the Empire and Artaeum. I've read il-Anselma of course, and I think he's right that the last few Emperors have had few dealings with the Psijics. My own theory is that the Psijics tell them the truth rather than what they want to hear. The Psijics did counsel Uriel V against the invasion of Akavir, very strenuously.

The historical significance of the Order is unquestionable, but they are just that, history. As far as I can tell, they have no connection with the Empire, though they continue to be counselors to the counts of Summurset.

Mr. Townway, is there any chance that you can tell us how and why Almalexia was able to defeat Mehrunes Dagon? I've always thought that the Daedric Princes were much stronger than the Tribunal.

Well, she had more then a little help from Sotha Sil, of course, and all three were terribly injured in the encounter. Almalexia, particularly. Of course, it's difficult to give a precise blow-by-blow description of the battle, since accounts are pretty mythic: there were survivors of the destruction of Mournhold, but clearly they weren't taking notes while they were running for their lives. The only physical attacks I mentioned in the book that she throttled him and he poisoned her with his claws, two attacks which are supported by my research. As for who is or was stronger, two of the Gods of Morrowind at the height of their powers, or a Daedra Prince... I could not say. It is tempting to say that the Tribunal was most powerful at that time. They repelled an invasion by Mehrunes Dagon, after all. But without knowing for certain how or what his intentions were beyond destroying Mournhold -- Which he succeeded in doing -- I would be a poor Scholar to assume too much.

Why didn't Vivec use his powers while fighting the Empire? Considering the fact that he had an array of god powers, why did he use just common troops and war strategies?

There are definitely tales of Vivec's extraordinary feats during the Four Score War which I didn't include because they didn't take place in 2920. Vivec is an extraordinary character, I think, because he's a General as much as he is a God. He does the things one expects of Gods -- Flooding the land, stopping rocks that fall from the heavens -- But he also is a leader who inspires his men to victory. I think he sometimes, maybe not always, but sometimes, preferred to use his wits, his ability to devise strategy, rather than his raw power in battle... It's pure conjecture, but I suppose sometimes he just wanted his men to learn, instead of just saving them, and after eighty years of war, he was tired...

That's a lot of conjecture. Maybe he just wasn't as powerful as people said he was.

There's a lot of conjecture with anything regarding Vivec.

Attrebus chortled.

On a semi related topic to Vivec and the Tribunal is the fate of the Dwemer. There a few books related to this enigmatic race, however, none give a clear picture of what happened to them. Have any of you thought about researching this topic and writing a book about the Dwemer? Has the shroud of time made it impossible to remove fact from fiction on this matter?

I am a great admirer of the Dwemer culture. I think Tamriel has never fully recovered from their loss... Perhaps I will write about their disappearance some day. It certainly has all the markings of a great history, with all its promises, dashed forever.

It's too grand of an assignment for me. But I wouldn't mind trying to put together a biography of Dumac. As you know from "The Wolf Queen", I do have a weakness for doomed royalty... Maybe...

I would only do it to honor the legacy of my fellow playwright Gor Felim, whose other work beside that written as Marobar Sul is sadly not in print. Like him, I would come up with some wild speculations with absolutely no evidence, but plenty of entertainment value.

I would agree that the Dwemer were fascinating, and to a great extent, their history still is. I find stories of the Brass God extremely interesting. There is mention of the original Brass God being seen by Kagrenac and the Enantiomorph. I was wondering if any of you could tell us more about the Enantiomorph, or as they are known individually, Zurin Arctus and Talos. Many believe Zurin Arctus was the Underking, but "The Arcturian Heresy" seems to cloud that perspective, hence the word "heresy". Would any of you care to enlighten us on the relationship of Arctus and Talos and the Enantiomorph?

You find that interesting? I do not. In the least.

Well, "The Arcturian Heresy" is a bit of a joke right? Who wrote it, do you think? I've never heard any history so, well, neither formal nor poetic, I guess you would say, conversationally written. I mean, in battle, Zurin Arctus 'takes them on'? As a theory, it's certainly less interesting than the idea that Zurin Arctus was the Underking, and the great tragedy of life is how often the less interesting turns out to be true, so perhaps it's not fiction.

Let me begin by saying -

This is the central action of my client's book "2E 896: The Last Year Of The Second Era". I think you should wait for the publication of that to hear his opinion... It's somewhat involved... But fascinating...

This makes me wonder - If there are so many radically different accounts of certain historical events, how can any researcher possibly tell which accounts are true and which are not? Furthermore, does this not mean that there is no unanimously accepted history of Tamriel? In this case, how do you explain the unity of the Empire given the great cultural differences between the peoples living in Tamriel?

You see unity in the Empire? I don't.

With all due respect, I think you're overstating things a bit, Sinder. Are there events, personalities, and histories that are in contention? Certainly. Does that mean that there are no facts that are generally accepted amongst the people of the Empire? Not at all. As a historian, it is my job to look at commonly held beliefs -- And there are many of them in Tamriel -- And question them, look for evidence to support and disprove them. I must see them in their political context, both historical and contemporary. Sometimes I must be satisfied with the most likely scenarios, guessing what happened and why based on what happened before and afterwards. And I have to admit to myself that some of my guesses are going to be wrong, and be big enough to admit it when other evidence comes to light. All that said, I don't see history in Tamriel as a completely formless mass with no tentpoles or points of reference. It may be impossible for a historian to be conclusive, but that does not mean that history as a whole is a lie. The truths are there, if you look

I don't think the common folk care much about history. Much of this is academic talk. What does it matter to a peasant in Morrowind who Veloth was, when he lived, or even if he ever existed at all? There's a tradition there, which will never die even if historians unanimously gave evidence, obliterating any doubt. People in Tamriel, and I think elsewhere, believe what they want to believe.

From a scholarly point of view, it is a shame that there's not a more consistant view of history. Especially since there are beings walking Nirn that were at certain events and just aren't talking! Of course, there wouldn't be much of an "adventure" if everything was already known.

We do believe that there are some discrepancies in the historical "facts" of Tamriel. I guess we might disagree on the severity of the issue. One thing we do have in common is our quests for knowledge and understanding. In "The Fall of the Usurper" by Palaux Illthre, there's quote from the poet Braeloque, "To find the facts, the wisest always look first to the fiction". I find this to be an interesting belief. We Librarians seem to do this on most occasions. While we're on the subject of the Usurper, I was wondering if there is anything more you could tell us about the man called the Camoran Usurper and his army of Daedra and Undead Warriors that went on a rampage through Valenwood.

That is a particularly interest of mine. And something that I'm researching now. It's a tremendous subject anyway you look at it. He was a remarkable warleader, the Usurper, and utterly relentless in his rampage through western Tamriel. The Emperor and the lesser royalty tried to stop him for decades, but he only got stronger and stronger. When you look over the accounts of the era, there is this palpable sense of mounting terror... It's truly an epic tale worth telling.

Talking about epic tales, I was wondering what you think about four great heroes who did great things: the Eternal Champion - The one who defeated the impostor Jagar Tharn, the Hero of the Battlespire - Who defeated Mehrunes Dagon during the time when Jagarn Tharn ruled over all of Tamriel, the so-called Hero of Daggerfall - Who had a great role to play in the events leading up to the Warp in the West (or as the esteemed S'Reddit put it, The Miracle of Peace as ordained by the Nine), and last, but not least, the Nerevarine - Who, of course, defeated Dagoth Ur among other things. Now, I am a bit ashamed to admit it, but I do not even know the real names of these brave heroes. Do you know of any biographies that have been written about them? Have you considered writing about them yourselves? Also, how is it possible that four men could have such great achievements? How could one single mortal fight both the Daedric hordes of Mehrunes Dagon and the Daedric Prince himself, and emerge victorious? It sounds more like a fairy tale to me...

Those tales sound interesting to you? Not to me. If they didn't actually happen, I would assume they were fairy tales constructed by some pathetic scribe.

You have to understand that these are all fairly recent historical events, all within our current Emperor's reign, and it is in his best interest to keep the names of those involved secret. I doubt I will live long enough for those records to become public, but I agree that they might make an epic tale one day. I hope a writer in the future does attempt to ferret out the truth.

The fellow -- I've heard it was a fellow, though it might have been a lady -- Who defeated Mehrunes Dagon did not, I think, truly defeat him. He merely thwarted what appeared to be the Prince's most immediate plans. It seems to me just as likely that Dagon manipulated the hero into doing exactly what he wanted. I don't think any Prince would be defeated if He didn't wish to be.

Attrebus thought for a moment.

We've heard the rumblings that the Empire will fall. What's your take on this? Do you think we are in for a time of hardship in the not too distant future?

Baloth-Kul started singing.

Oh yes, there are bad times just around the corner, there are dark clouds hurtling through the sky And it's no use whining, about a silver lining, for we KNOW from experience that they won't roll by...

We're heading toward a time of hardship? I don't know. I look around me, and I see it's already here. But then, it's always been here. Tamriel has always been the Arena, and I guess always will be.

I'm a historian, not an eschatologist, but one can compare the events of 2920, say, with today. The Emperor is old, yes, but he's in good health. He has sons to inherit his kingdom. In 2920, there was but one Emperor, Reman, and one son, Juilek. Do I think this Empire will continue forever? No, of course not. All Empires fall or disintegrate, slowly over time, which I think, frankly, is the fate of the Septim Dynasty.

Xanathar looked around.

Hmm, it's rather late. I am afraid we will have to end this interview soon. I'm pretty sure you all have important things to do tomorrow. But I will ask you one more question, about the book "On Oblivion". As you might know, it is said in this book that a certain "Jyggalag" is a Daedric Prince. Interestingly enough, there is no mention of Meridia in it. Do you, by any chance, know who this Jyggalag is?

Also, do you know anything about the wherabouts of Morian Zenas, the author of this book? The book says that it is just the first chapter in the series, but many years have passed since its publication, and to my knowledge, the second chapter has not yet been published. Could Morian Zenas have disappeared?

"Waters of Oblivion" is the book you want about that?

Have you read it?

No. Too busy right now, but I intend to.

I always thought Jyggalag was a bit of a joke played on poor old Zenas by the Daedra Princes.

It has, indeed, become rather late.

Sinder Velvin looked towards the authors.

Sorry for detaining you so long, sirs, but you are such interesting and knowledgeable individuals that we just had to ask you how you feel about certain topics. Now that I have finnaly met you in person, I am absolutely certain that you are worthy of praise. I shall eagerly await the publication of your next books, and I am sure that so will my esteemed colleagues. But, before we depart - Is there anything that you haven't told us yet, but that you would like to tell us?

Buy my books. I know they cost a lot, but my expenses are high.

I think I've said all I have to say, and probably more.

Oh, there are several more of my books coming out soon, but I would rather not spoil the surprise by discussing them. If after reading them, you would like to talk about them, I am always available through my agent, S'Reddit. I welcome your unqualified praise.

I seem to have left my purse at home. Can one of the Librarians pick up the bar tab, and send me a bill? Itemized, if at all possible?

Xanathar paid the very large bill.

Gentlemen, I suppose this is the end of the interview. I would like to express my gratitude to you for giving us more information about your coming books and for answering our questions. Many thanks for arranging this, Master S'Reddit.

The Librarians stood up.

It is now time for us to depart. There are still things that we have to do over at the Library, you see. I hope we can talk again in the future. Until we meet again, good luck and health to you.

After saying their goodbyes, the Librarians returned to the Imperial Library.