Solstheim

Solstheim (also spelled, Soulstheim) is an island region located on the Sea of Ghosts, between the provinces of Skyrim and Morrowind. For the longest time, Solstheim held little significance until around 3E 427, when the East Empire Company began to set foot onto the land and build their colony. It has evolved since the disaster in 4E 5, when the High King of Skyrim gave Solstheim to Dark Elven refugees. The Skaal Tribe of Nords have lived on Solstheim since the Merethic Era. It is known as the "Jewel of Absolutely Nothing."

By game[]

• Solstheim (Bloodmoon)
• Solstheim (Dragonborn)

Description[]

Geography[]

Felsaad Coast[]

The Felsaad Coast consists of the northeast of Solstheim, and it is the home of the native Nordic population, as the Skaal Village is located on the northeast bluffs. Much of the region has been used by the Skaal Tribe, from not only the village but the subsidiary settlement of the Thirsk Mead Hall, which was founded by a sub-group of the Skaal. The mead hall is found on the other side of the region, on the shores of Lake Fjalding. Minor islands are found on the water, a notable one is the Gyldenhul Barrow, the ancient burial tomb of the infamous Nordic pirate, Haknir Death-Brand. It is found on Horker Island.

Hirstaang Forest[]

The Hirstaang Forest consists of the southern half of Solstheim, and it is the center of the region's commerce, as the settlements of Raven Rock and Fort Frostmoth are found here. Compared to the north, Hirstaang is tame, containing some minor farmlands, outside the Raven Rock walls. Fort Frostmoth was the first settlement in the land, until in 3E 427, the township of Raven Rock was founded. When the Red Year occurred, the sudden ashstorms had practically destroyed the Hirstaang Forest. Fort Frostmoth was swallowed by the ash, and thanks to House Redoran, Raven Rock was able to survive, barely. Dead trees currently riddle the landscape, a shell of its former self.

Isinfier Plains[]

The Isinfier Plains of Solstheim takes the central east of the island, found between the Hirstaang Forest and the Felsaad Coast. The plains are largely barren, as no known settlements can be found here. Only Witches and Reavers live in this region. A small fraction of the Glenmoril Witches live in Isinfier, utilizing the Altar of Thrond as their base of operation. Many natural caverns are found here, such as the Cave of Hidden Music and the Solvjord. In the deep forest lies Vahlok's Tomb, the burial place of the ancient Dragon Priest, Vahlok the Jailor, who faced the Traitor, Miraak in the Merethic Era. Vahlok lives in Skaal culture as "the Guardian."

Moesring Mountains[]

The Moesring Mountains are the frozen wastes of Solstheim, being found in the northwest, separated by the mountain range by the same name. It is nothing but cold seas of snow, with the occasional cave system, such as Benkongerike and Domme. The only "settlement" in the region is Castle Karstaag, a glacier fashioned into a castle, with dining rooms and long hallways. The Frost Giant, Karstaag lives in the castle. On the northwest, lies the Mortrag Glacier, which engulfs the entire northwest coast. By 4E 5, it was gone and more natural caves were discovered. The Dragon Lair known as Saering's Watch is found overlooking the north.

Fauna[]

Rieklings & Bristlebacks[]

In Tamriel, the Goblin is a common creature. However, areas such as Skyrim do not have any known Goblin tribes in their land. Solstheim has a unique variant of Goblins known as the Rieklings, or more appropriately, Ice Goblins. Rieklings are more or less similar to their mainland counterpart, but they are much smaller and utilize makeshift spears and shields, with the former being small enough to be used as arrows by regular-sized people. According to Skaal myth, the Rieklings are descendants of the Snow Elves, who once ruled over Skyrim. The construct redoubts throughout Northern Solstheim built out of sticks and leather. They are a constant threat of the Skaal, having at one point conquered Thirsk Mead Hall. Ruins and Caves such as Fahlbtharz or Benkongerike are used by the Rieklings. While the Rieklings are known for being from Solstheim, they have roots in the mainland, and not just from the primary Goblin race. Rieklings are often seen taming the Bristleback, a variant of Boar that lives on Solstheim. They are known for being vicious, even to the Nords of Thirsk. They are commonly hunted for their meat, but the Rieklings use them as battle mounts.^[1][2]

Grahl & Udyrfrykte[]

The Trolls of Solstheim have a distinction between them and their mainland cousins, but this more so in their appearance, or in some cases, their reputation. In the frozen north of the Moesrings lies the Grahl, a hulking Ice Troll that has frozen spikes on their back, as well as, long white hair. They are vicious but not different than the common Troll. Like other Trolls, the Grahl has a weakness to Fire. This is due to their regenerative healing, which does not work well with burns. The Skaal have their own speculations on the Grahl, wondering whether they are evil spirits, or just simply a great beast. Their claws are said to rend armor and tear into flesh and are known to attack either alone or in a pack.^[1][3] By the year 4E 201 however, they no longer appear to live on the island.

While the Grahl were feared by the Skaal, the Udyrfrykte holds a much worse reputation, dating back to the original founding of the Thirsk Tribe of Nords. An Udyrfrkyte is not limited to Solstheim, but they are associated with the island. An Udyrfrykte is known to be spotted as far as the Jerall Mountains in Cyrodiil, or the Pale in Skyrim. They are formidable creatures that live in isolation. The first known Udyrfrykte was found in the early third era when the Thirsk Mead Hall was constructed. Awakened from the Caves of Fjalding, the Udyrfrykte wreaked havoc on the Mead Hall. In terms of appearance, the Udyrfrykte looks similar to most Trolls. The legendary beast that destroyed Thirsk was sealed back into its prison by the Nordic Wizard, Eldrid Ice-Light. This beast, in particular, originates from Cyrodiil, where the mother was last located.^[4][5]

Ash Creatures[]

Red Mountain on the sub-continent of Vvardenfell is the largest volcano in Tamriel, taking a massive portion of Vvardenfell. Even deep in the Dwarven Mines, Ash Creatures exist in the area, such as the Ash Zombie or the Ash Vampire, but when the eruption of Red Mountain, colloquially known as the Red Year occurred, the district of Vvardenfell was obliterated, and surrounding areas such as Solstheim and Stonefalls were heavily affected. The Hirstaang Forest of Solstheim was wrecked, leaving open ash plains where the stalwart trees once stood. With this came Heart Stones, which originate from Red Mountain itself, and contains traces of the power from the Heart of Lorkhan. Regardless, the Heart Stones brought the inception of a creature known as the Ash Spawn, hulking creatures made from the bones of those that died in the Red Year, covered in layers of ash. The resurrected Falx Carius utilized Ash Spawn as his servants, while he protected the burial stronghold of Fort Frostmoth. Neloth, a Magister of House Telvanni had researched the Heart Stones, coming to the conclusion we know today. With Heart Stones, Neloth was able to tame Ash Guardians, who work similarly to the Atronachs. Like with Falx Carius and Ildari Sarothril, the Heart Stones are able to resurrect people.^[6][7]

Lurker[]

Solstheim has held influence from the Daedric Princes throughout history, considering the island's very isolated and nowhere nature. In recent years, the Daedric Prince of the Forbidden Knowledge, Hermaeus Mora has his influence featured in Solstheim through his champion, Miraak. When the latter attempted to claim the island, his brain-washed followers built small pools around the All-Maker Stones, reminiscent of the ones seen throughout the islands of Apocrypha. Out of these pools appear Lurkers, large amphibious-esque creatures that serve as guardians of the forbidden knowledge. In their home, they skulk around the winding and stretching halls, amidst the endless green sea. They spew large woads of tentacles from their mouths, spit hunks of acid, and sweep enemies with their long arms. They are quite formidable enemies and make useful bodyguards. When Miraak was defeated, the Lurkers were no longer present on Solstheim, but they are among the creatures brought forth onto the island from the planes of Oblivion. The Black Books of Herma-Mora are still in circulation, primarily in the region of Solstheim.

Frost Giant[]

The Giants of Tamriel have a unique culture, and even an undiscussed history that has largely been forgotten, such as considered a sect of the original Atmorans, and the history surrounding Sinmur, the Chieftain of the Giants. Some of the most obscure creatures of Tamriel are variations of the Giants, such as the Giantess, and the Frost Giants. Frost Giants are a rare group of Giants that live in the deep mountains of Tamriel, in the deep Reach, and the Moesring Mountains or Ensleth Valley of Solstheim. Frost Giants resemble a regular Giant, except for their head, which has four eyes, and large horns. They live in complete and utter isolation in the Druadach Mountains or the Moesrings. Of the Frost Giants, the Giant known as Karstaag is the most well-known, residing in the frozen Castle Karstaag, where he has several Riekling servants. Karstaag was among the greatest warriors of Solstheim that partook in the Bloodmoon Prophecy.^[8][9]

Miscellaneous Creatures[]

Flora[]

While Solstheim's fauna seems unique, the flora is not so much, mirroring that seen in Cyrodiil and Skyrim, which makes sense considering its location. Southern Solstheim served as the home of both the Hirstaang Forest and the Isinfier Plains. The former is an expansive forest, filled with thickets of pine trees. Many creatures live these woods, and all Imperial-based settlements live in this area. Belladonna Berries are grown here as well, and have an affinity in Magic. The Isinfier Plains is when conditions in Solstheim change between the Hirstaang, and the frozen north. All throughout the plains and even areas of Hirstaang are Holly Berries, a widespread shrub that is used in Alchemy for their frost resistance. However, among these plants is an extremely rare plant known as the Wolfsbane, a flower that is known for its strength against Werewolves. Wolfsbane is used as a cure for Lycanthropy, more than just a Werewolf. Some groups such as the Order of the Silver Dawn grown them, but most people seek these plants out. The only flower grows in Solstheim, and that is on the summit of Hvitkald Peak. Wolfsbane is even made into incense, which is then used into making Skinchanger Style of Armor, one that worshippers of Hircine typically wear. In Solstheim's south contain various landmarks, such as Brodir Grove, or even Thormoor's Watch.

When the Red Year had occurred, the geography of southern Solstheim had changed drastically, one that resembles the volcanic wastes of Morrowind. All throughout the landscape, there are sights of ruined trees, even a much rarer occurrence of a Burnt Spriggan, which is self-explanatory. Instead of mighty pines, Emperor Parasols dot the landscape, along with the illustrious, House Telvanni tower, Tel Mithryn, which is made of the typical Telvanni mushroom. Scathecraw had begun to grow in patches, throughout Raven Rock and the remaining forest between Isinfier and Tel Mithryn. Ashen Grass Pods are developed throughout the coast, and Ash Yam had become minor produce in the House Redoran occupied, Raven Rock. While Southern Solstheim's climate changed, Northern Solstheim's had remained intact, sharing much of the similarities it had in 3E 427. The Isinfier Plains were only minorly affected, as it resembles a more temperate climate as seen in Falkreath Hold or Wrothgar.

Government[]

Political power in Solstheim has wavered throughout the years, originally a territory of Skyrim's High Kingship. This was the case throughout most of the time, except when the Dragon Cult, under the command of Miraak, the first known Dragonborn. Miraak's regime was separate from the main Dragon Cult that is based in Bromjunaar. Because of the first Dragonborn's power over the Dragons, Vahlok the Guardian was able to subdue the Dragon Priest. The Dragon Cult that existed on Solstheim are ancestors of the Skaal, who are the prime civilization of Solstheim. The Skaal, and later, the Thirsk Tribe are led by a Chieftain, who claim the position one way or the other. It has been this way for various years, as no other group lived in Solstheim. This changed when the Third Empire established the East Empire Company and their base, Fort Frostmoth on the island. At this point, the leading figure in the EEC colony was a Factor, someone who operates trade between two points (i.e., Raven Rock and the EEC). The Imperial Legion served as a prime military force on Solstheim at this time.^[10][11]

As time went on, Raven Rock's political control shifted completely into House Redoran, one of the five Great Houses of Morrowind. House Redoran's sphere of influence involves duty, honor, and warfare. Their focus is to maintain the traditional Dunmeri culture and the honor of oneself. House Redoran is based in the city-state of Blacklight, which is located in the northwest of Morrowind, near the borders that make up the Velothi Mountains. Their territory expands as far as Ald'ruhn and Silgrad Tower. When both the Red Year and the Accession War occurred, within the span of two years, House Redoran had elevated themselves in times of need, becoming a major factor in Morrowind's political sphere. The Redoran Guard operated in Raven Rock, exclusively, while House Telvanni has a small presence in Solstheim, via the tower of Tel Mithryn. Beyond the Redoran and Telvanni, minor houses such as House Sathil (a minor house of the Indoril) lived in the north, somewhere around the Ensleth Valley. During the Redoran's reign over Solstheim, there have been two Councilors, Brara Morvayn and her son, Lleril Morvayn.^[12]

Religion[]

The Skaal Tribe of Nords do not follow their typical Nordic Pantheon, nor their Totemic religion as seen with the Ancient Nordic Pantheon. Rather, the Skaal revere a monotheistic religion surrounding the All-Maker. To the Skaal, the All-Maker is the source of all life and creation, the harbinger of the afterlife as all spirits eventually return to the All-Maker, who in turns, reshapes them back into the living world. The Skaal see death as another beginning. In some context, the All-Maker has parallels with Anu, who personifies these similar concepts. The antithesis to the All-Maker is the Adversary, who enjoys the tormenting the spirits, with similarities with Padomay. In the end seasons, the Adversary would appear as Thartaag the World-Devourer. Regardless, the All-Maker has shaped the Skaalic culture. An important Skaal belief, "one-ness with the land," is an excellent summary on the Skaal, they live in harmony with nature, and only utilize the land when it is deemed fit. Skaal Tribesmen gather dead wood as firewood. They only hunt out of necessity, never for sport. There six landmarks throughout Solstheim, all known as the All-Maker Stones. Each of these stones are six representations of nature (Beast, Earth, Sun, Tree, Water, Wind). In Skaalic myth, the young warrior, Aevar Stone-Singer, traveled to all the stones and returned their aspects to the land from the Adversary.^[13][14]

Early colonial Solstheim had little religious influence, like many Imperial strongholds in Morrowind (i.e. Fort Moonmoth and Castle Ebonheart), shrines of the Imperial Cult can be found in Solstheim's regional bulwark, Fort Frostmoth. The Imperial Cult are missions from the Empire to expand the teachings of the Nine Divines in the Empire's most remote provinces. Raven Rock started off as a Mining town, meant to distribute Ebony to the Empire. Throughout the East Empire Company's control, this did not change, but when House Redoran appeared, and Raven Rock became a council seat, religion was properly integrated into Solstheim's colony. However, at this time, the worship of the Tribunal had diminished, and so the House of Reclamations made their rounds in Solstheim, with the establishment of the Raven Rock Temple. The House of Reclamations returns to the original Tribunal, the one before the Battle of Red Mountain. The Good Daedra (Azura, Boethiah, and Mephala) were worshipped throughout the province, and the "False" Tribunal were made into Saints. This religion came forth when the Dissident Priests of Holamayan took control over House Indoril. This has been the religion of both Morrowind, and Raven Rock ever since.^[15][16]

History[]

Merethic Era[]

The Battle of the Moesring & the Fall of the Snow Prince[]

In the late Merethic Era, the Atmorans under Ysgramor had traveled south to the modern-day lands of Skyrim, building their first city of Saarthal. However, the Snow Elves had besieged the city and drove out the Atmorans in the event known as the Night of Tears. Sometime later, Ysgramor returned to Skyrim and had begun his purge against the Snow Elves in the Nordic-Falmer War, spanning for quite some time. The last known battle was on the region of Solstheim, in the Battle of the Moesring, the last stand of the Falmer. Leading the remaining Falmer is the Snow Prince, the last of the Snow Elven hierarchy. Ysgramor had traveled for Solstheim after devastating the Falmer on the mainland, encountering the remnants of the Snow Elven Army at the Moesring Mountains in the northwest.^[17]

In the beginning, the Atmorans were overwhelming the Snow Elves, cutting through them with ease until the arrival of the Snow Prince, who singlehandedly crushed the Atmorans greatly. The Spear of the Snow Prince was legendary for the battle, as it killed various figures, such as Freida Oaken-Wand and Heimdall the Frenzied. Amidst the slaughter, the Snow Prince had killed the mother of a lowly twelve-year-old girl, Finna, a squire to her mother. Enraged, Finna grabbed her mother's sword and pierced it into the Snow Prince's breast. This gave the Atmorans the leeway to ultimately defeat the Snow Elves in Solstheim. This was the end of the elven race's illustrious history, although small remnants took to isolation, never to be heard from again. Ysgramor and his chieftain gave the Snow Prince a proper burial, with the exception of Stalhrim, which was reserved for Nords. His burial ground became Jolgeirr Barrow. From then on, the Nords had conquered Solstheim, and eventually, the Dwemer settled in lands far from Nordic cities, resulting in Nchardak and Fahlbtharz.^[17][18]

Solstheim's Creation Myth; The Guardian & the Traitor[]

The modern-day Skaal of Solstheim are the descendants of the Dragon Cult that ruled over Solstheim, sometime after Ysgramor's reign, as the Dragon Cult was prominent. One such priest, Miraak, who was the first known Dragonborn, long before the appearance of St. Alessia in Cyrodiil. Miraak had come into contact with Hermaeus Mora, the Daedric Prince of Forbidden Knowledge. The Wretched Abyss had lured Miraak with great knowledge, and the ability to Bend the Will of Dragons, and so he plotted against his Dragon Overlords, killing them in numbers outside his grand temple. Miraak could absorb the Dragon Souls, giving them unbeknownst power that would eventually lead to their downfall. Three Dragon Priests, known as the Acolyte Priests, would follow Miraak and disown the Dragon Cult.^[10][19]

The leaders of Bromjunaar had sent the Warrior-Priest, Vahlok to defeat Miraak. The battle between these two forces resulted in the mainland splitting, and that broken piece of land became modern-day Solstheim. In an epic battle between good and evil, the two priests had battled until Vahlok had emerged victorious. The Acolyte Priests were defeated, from Ahzidal to Zahkriisos. While other tales would end it here, the truth is different. Before Vahlok would kill him, Miraak withdrew into Apocrypha, while Vahlok the Guardian stays vigilant for his return. The tale of the Guardian and the Traitor became a cautionary tale to the Skaal Tribe, as a warning for the inevitable return. Vahlok became the ruler of Solstheim, and the Dragon Cult of Solstheim remained isolated from the rest, resulting in their transformation into the modern-day Skaal. Contrary to the Dragon Priest's rule in Skyrim, Vahlok was seen as a wise and just ruler, bringing an age of prosperity and peace to Solstheim and its people.^[10]

Second Era[]

Records of Solstheim throughout the Years[]

Solstheim's history since the Dragon Cult is largely unknown, but it has appeared in history since the Merethic Era, and before even Tiber Septim's rise to power. Despite the Skaal's isolation, they are acknowledged by the government of Skyrim, as High King Logrolf, who was alive during the reign of Versidue Shaie, had a set of Stalhrim Armor on display, courtesy of the Skaal. The island of Solstheim was considered a territory of Skyrim, ever since the Battle of the Moesring, and so it has been used by the province, but it did not have a known centralized settlement like the East Empire Company had with Fort Frostmoth. Because of how unpopulated Solstheim is, many people took to the island for a private retreat, where one scholar lived in White Ridge Barrow to conduct experiments on explosive, elemental spiders. With the schism that had befallen onto Skyrim, it is unknown which kingdom claimed Solstheim but considering its location; it was likely claimed by the Eastern Kingdom. It was unharmed, nor utilized by the invading Kamali Army in the Second Akaviri Invasion, as they bypassed the island and headed straight for Windhelm. Second Era cartography has depicted Solstheim among other the other provinces, in the seas shared by Skyrim and Morrowind, but as the time went on, the island of Solstheim had become forgotten until in the late Third Era.^{[20][21][22][23][24]}

Third Era[]

Main article: Solstheim (Bloodmoon)

Hrothmund the Red & Thirsk Mead Hall[]

The Skaal are a spiritual-folk, one that has deviated from the Nordic culture that the race is known for. A group of Skaal decided to leave the Skaal and their strict religious culture, seeking the thrill of fighting by his own free will. Leading the helm was Hrothmund the Red, who took his group of warriors across the Felsaad Coast, until he spotted a plot of land along Lake Fjalding. Within the span of several months, the Thirsk Mead Hall was constructed. However, the construction of Thirsk had caused the creature, the Udyrfrykte had awoken from the Caves of Fjalding. Wreaking havoc on Thirsk. The Thirsk Nords dwindled half in numbers, but fortunately, the wizard named Eldrid Ice-Light sealed the creature back into the cave. Two months later, Thirsk was rebuilt. But with the Udyrfrykte dealt with, another problem arose when Drengr Bronze-Helm had questioned Hrothmund's leadership, and sought to become Chieftain. In response, Hrothmund had cleaved Drengr's head off and placed it onto his mantle. It became the symbol of his leadership, and that he was indeed worthy of being the Chieftain of Thirsk. And so the ancient tradition was born. Any race or sex could attempt to claim the throne, as long as, they presented an honorable trophy and Hrothmund's spirit consents. Thirsk was peaceful for a time until Hrothmund yearned for battle, and so he took to the Moesring Mountains to kill the White Wolf, Ondjage the Fell Wolf. But in the end, Hrothmund was defeated. The sight would become Hrothmund's Barrow, and it was here, the Thirsk Warriors slew the beast together, in honor of their Chieftain. Thirsk had thrived since.^[4]

The East Empire Company & Raven Rock[]

By the late Third Era, Solstheim was practically forgotten, despite its location (between Windhelm and Blacklight), it was untouched, until in 3E 427 when the Imperials of the East Empire Company had re-discovered Solstheim. The Company soon took to establishing their ground with the construction of Fort Frostmoth. The Imperial Legion was soon stationed in Frostmoth, with Captain Falx Carius named the de-facto leader. In time, citizens of the Empire, coming from either Windhelm in Skyrim, or Khuul in Vvardenfell. These colonies would go on to create the township of Raven Rock, as a large vein of Ebony was discovered on the bay. Within the span of several months, Raven Rock was created, as an Imperial charter town that produced Ebony to Windhelm. However, with the port-town established, a power struggle had occurred between Falco Galenus, an Imperial prospector of the EEC, and Carnius Magius, the corrupt benefactor of Raven Rock. While the former wanted Raven Rock to thrive for the better good, the latter ruled over the town like a dictator, silencing those he deed no longer useful. After discovering raw veins of Stalhrim in the Raven Rock Mine, and an attack orchestrated by Carnius, Raven Rock was able to thrive, and a new person was named the Factor of Raven Rock, governing the town in its early years.^{[11][25][26][27][28]}

The Bloodmoon Prophecy & the Will of Hircine[]

Throughout the eras, the Daedric Prince of the Hunt & the Great Game, Hircine has called upon warriors throughout the continent, to partake in a game, such as the Ritual of the Innocent Quarry (or the Wild Hunt), to hunt a figure such as an Indrik or Herne Egahirn throughout the March of Sacrifices or the remnants of Caecilly Island, or pit various warriors together, to the death, such as this example. Hircine is not exempt from attempting to enter Tamriel, as in 3E 427, Hircine and his forces arrive on the plains of Solstheim, to initiate a Hunt, that is known to the Skaal, as the Bloodmoon Prophecy. Hircine descends onto Tamriel once every era, to pit the greatest warriors of Solstheim against each other, releasing his hounds. 3E 427 is an auspicious time, as it was when Imperial colonies moved onto Solstheim, bringing new potential candidates. There are several signs of the prophecy. It begins when Werewolves appear throughout Solstheim, who would remain on the island as the Frostmoon Pack. Then, "Fire from the Eye of Glass," where a pillar of fire sprouts from the middle of Lake Fjalding. The third sign is the "Tide of Woe," when bodies of dead Horker wash onto shore throughout the northern coast. Finally, the eponymous Bloodmoon of Secunda blots the sky. Hircine's Hunt took place within Mortrag Glacier. A traveler had participated in the hunt, along with, Falx Carius, Tharsten Heart-Fang, and Karstaag. In the end, the mysterious traveler had emerged victorious from Hircine's Hunt, defeating Hircine's Guile of Aspect. While Tharsten & Karstaag were unable to survive, Falx Carius returned to Fort Frostmoth.^{[29][30][31][32]}

Fourth Era[]

Main article: Solstheim (Dragonborn)

The Red Year & Morrowind's Expansion[]

By the time the 3rd Pocket Guide was published in 3E 432, Raven Rock was a flourishing town, between Windhelm and Blacklight, with a population consisting of Imperials and Nords. And by the time the Oblivion Crisis, Raven Rock was unaffected by the forces of Mehrunes Dagon, although, it was unknown whether Oblivion Gates opened in Solstheim, or whether it had affected Fort Frostmoth and the Skaal settlements. With the Fall of Ald'ruhn in the Crisis, House Redoran had sent groups led by Councilors to various territories, to re-established themselves. The city-state of Ald'ruhn was the seat of Redoran's council at the time, but with Skar's destruction, many were forced to relocate. Brara Morvayn, Lady of Maar Gan and Councilor of Ald'ruhn traveled for Raven Rock, and with negotiations with the East Empire Company, the Dark Elves were properly initiated into Solstheim. Although, figures such as Falx Carius were opposed to this, seeing them as a threat. But when the Red Year of 4E 5 had occurred, Solstheim had drastically changed forever. The ensuing ash storm that hit the south had obliterated the Hirstaang Forest, and Raven Rock's wall was severely damaged, barely saving the town. The main province of Morrowind was in a much worse condition, and so minor groups such as House Sathil of the Indoril and House Ulen of the Hlaalu migrated onto Solstheim. The ash swallowed Fort Frostmoth and General Falx Carius. Raven Rock was defenseless, but with the EEC's permission, Brara Morvayn had brought Redoran Guards to protect the city. As more and more refugees arrived onto Solstheim, the then High King of Skyrim had given the region of Solstheim to Morrowind in 4E 16. The East Empire Company had relinquished all holdings of Solstheim to the Great House Redoran, to which it remained so ever since.^{[11][33][34][12]}

Elhul Sathil & the Cursed Blade, Umbra[]

Amidst the rubble of Vivec City, now known as the Scathing Bay, was the accursed sword, Umbra, to which the Sathil noblemen, Elhul Sathil took for his own, and immediately going mad from the blade. Without the soul of Umbra, the sword had become unstable and so Elhul was affected because of this. His madness caused his family to chain him, and take away the Umbra Sword. As time went on, Elhul had recovered but came into possession of the Umbra Sword, leading to his father, Hleryn Sathil, to seal him in a dungeon underneath Castle Sathil, in the Solstheim village of Sathil. The young Dark Elf remained in his cell for years, until the arrival of two travelers. The Crown Prince of the Mede Dynasty, Attrebus Mede, and his aged Dunmeri companions, Ezhmaar Sul had arrived onto Solstheim, seeking the blade of Umbra. Elhul's sister, Nirai Sathil had escorted them to her brother's prison, and trapped them there, hoping that they would kill Elhul and free him from his torment. In the end, Attrebus had unsheathed his trusted-sword, Flashing, and killed Elhul. He wrapped Umbra, so that he would not be affected, and began to part. But Nirai, and House Sathil prevented them from leaving, imprisoning in Elhul's former cell so that Umbra would not go into circulation. This proved to be in vain as both Attrebus & Sul teleported to the Fields of Regret, the Daedric Plane of Clavicus Vile.^[35][36][37]

The Colony of Raven Rock; the Dark Elves of Redoran[]

Brara Morvayn's influence over Raven Rock began with the introduction of House Redoran Guard, and in the aftermath of the Red Year, when Brara commissioned the construction of the Bulwark, to protect Raven Rock from the common ash-storms. Almost a year later, the Bulwark was constructed, and it proved to be a valued asset. The EEC relinquished Raven Rock to House Redoran, and so Brara had complete control over Raven Rock. With the EEC gone, the Imperial population moved back to Cyrodiil, which would have been reigned over by Thules the Gibbering, a year before Titus Mede I took over the Imperial Province. What followed after was Raven Rock's golden years, when peace was prominent, and the Ebony Mine was bringing abundant sums of money. When Councilor Brara Morvayn passed away in 4E 65, her son, Lleril Morvayn took over Raven Rock, and it was well-received by the people, as he was very reminiscent of his mother.^[12]

Things went smoothly until in 4E 95, when Vilur Ulen made an assassination attempt on Councilor Lleril. He was saved by the Redoran Guard, under the command of Modyn Veleth. It was revealed to be part of a revenge plot against House Redoran, for they had played a significant role in House Hlaalu's demotion as a Great House. The purpose of the assassination was to send a message to the Grand Council, to demonstrate the Redoran's weakness. Further information showed that Vilur Ulen had attempted to organize a coup d'etat against the Councilor, but he and his conspirators were executed. His descendants remained in hiding on Raven Rock as members of House Severin. As time went on, Raven Rock's prosperity dwindled as in 4E 130, the Bulwark was showing its age, in 4E 150, a group of Argonians attempted to conquer Solstheim, until they were defeated by Councilor Morvayn personally, and in 4E 170, the Raven Rock Ebony Mine had dried out. Councilor Morvayn's attempt to feed his people came out from his pocket, leaving him broke. As a result, some families left Solstheim for the mainland. Raven Rock had been in somewhat of a decline, but people remained regardless of their situation.^[38]

The Temple of Miraak & the Corrupted Stones[]

During the Skyrim Civil War in 4E 201, the Last Dragonborn had made their appearance known in the great plains of Whiterun Hold, when they had slain the Dragon known as Mirmulnir. News of this battle had spread across the north, and even as far as Solstheim. At the same time, cultist of the long-dead Miraak had appeared, and the All-Maker Stones became corrupted by his magic. People from as far as Raven Rock, to Thirsk, and in the deep Moesrings were affected. Miraak's cultist traveled for Skyrim to kill the Dragonborn, only to fail, bringing them to Solstheim. Miraak's cultist and his mind-controlled followers constructed the Temple of Miraak around the Tree Stone. Both the Dragonborn and a Skaal, Frea enter the temple, to discover one of the Black Books of Hermaeus Mora. The situation had become clear, Miraak was attempting to re-enter Tamriel, and conquer Solstheim. The Skaal utilized a ward to prevent Miraak's influence from getting to them. Storn Crag-Strider, the village chieftain tasked the Last Dragonborn to travel for Saering's Watch, a Dragon Aerie in the Moesring Mountains, where they acquired the shout of Bend Will, a long-forgotten Thu'um that was used by Miraak during his time as Dragon Priest. With this powerful shout, the Last Dragonborn traveled to all of the All-Makers Stones, freeing everyone from Miraak's power.^{[39][40][41][42]}

Miraak's Downfall; At the Summit of Apocrypha[]

As the Dragonborn cleansed the All-Maker Stones throughout Solstheim, they were investigating the Black Books of Hermaeus Mora, with help from the House Telvanni Magister, Neloth. Who remained on Solstheim sometime after the Red Year, creating Tel Mithryn on the site of Himmelhost Barrow. The two delved deep into the sunken ruins of Nchardak, where they reactivated the city's steam system and recovered the Black Book stowed away. The Book in Nchardak was Epistorlary Acumen, where the Dragonborn learned off the second word of Bend Will. With everything set in motion, the warrior only needed the final word, which only Hermaeus Mora had himself. In exchange for the final word, Storn Crag-Strider offered his life and the secret knowledge of the Skaal to the Daedric Prince, for the word. In the end, Storn was killed, and the Dragonborn earned the final word. The Dragonborn entered Apocrypha once again, where he would control the Dragon, Sahrotaar and defeated Miraak thrice over. Ultimately, Miraak's fate was sealed by Herma-Mora, and the Last Dragonborn was named his new Champion. Miraak's influence over Solstheim was broken and peace was restored, for a time.^[43][44][45]

The Revival of Raven Rock; the Second Golden Age[]

Despite Miraak's downfall, the situation in Raven Rock did not change. Beyond a Declaration of War from the revived Falx Carius, bustle in the mining town was low, and business was practically non-existent. In the very early Fourth Era, the Imperial archaeologist, and one of the original builders of Raven Rock, Gratian Caerellius had returned to the town to investigate a Nordic ruin uncovered in the ebony mine. However, he had disappeared without a trace, and his family remained on Solstheim. The East Empire Company covered up the story by declaring that he was killed in the mine from a cave-in. Eventually, the mine was closed by the Councilor. Gratian's descendent, Crescius Caerellius became the Foreman, despite its closure, and had a gut feeling that ebony was still in the mine. A mysterious traveler had encountered an old Crescius and was asked by him to investigate the ebony mine. It was revealed to be a closed-off section of the Bloodskal Barrow, the burial tomb of the Acolyte Priest, Zahkriisos. With the mine cleared and the story illuminated, the ebony mine had re-opened, and business was booming. The steady flow of ebony ore from Raven Rock had increased. While it proved to be fortunate for Raven Rock, some saw it as an opportunity for another attempt of change.^[46][47][48]

Another plot from House Ulen was conducted on Lleril Morvayn, just as things were changing for the better. Modyn Veleth of the Town Guard had hired the mysterious traveler to investigate this suspicion that the Councilor had, by sleuthing through the Ulen Ancestral Tomb at the Temple. They learned of House Severin's involvement in Ulen matters, and so a private investigation of the Severin Manor was made. Through hidden documents, it was revealed that the Dark Elves of the Severin Family were a cover for the Ulen, each one of them were members of House Hlaalu, relatives of Vilur Ulen, the one that attempted to take Morvayn's life several years prior. The patriarch and son of Vilur, Vendil Ulen had contacted the Morag Tong in his plot against the Redoran noble. They took refuge in Ashfallow Citadel, in which the mysterious traveler had dealt with them swiftly. The Ulen Family had ultimately failed in their mission, and the Colony of Raven Rock continued to thrive throughout the Fourth Era.^[49]

Locations[]

Regions[]

• Felsaad Coast
• Hirstaang Forest (Solstheim Ashlands)
• Isinfier Plains
• Moesring Mountains

Settlements[]

• Raven Rock
  • Morvayn Manor
  • The Retching Netch
  • Raven Rock Temple
  • Raven Rock Ebony Mine
  • The Bulwark
• Bujold's Retreat
• Fort Frostmoth (Settlement)
• Haknir's Shoal
• Northshore Landing
• Old Attius Farm
• Oleen Mar
• Ramshackle Trading Post
• Sathil
• Skaal Village
• Tel Mithryn
• Thirsk Mead Hall

Ruins[]

Caves[]

Landmarks[]

Gallery[]

Raven Rock, one of the four settlements on Solstheim.

Solstheim marked in red on the map of Tamriel.

The ash wastes of Solstheim.

A dragon mound on Solstheim.

Tel Mithryn, one of the four settlements on Solstheim.

Skaal Village, one of the four settlements on Solstheim.

A Nordic Ruin on the island.

Thirsk Mead Hall, one of the four settlements on Solstheim.

The Dragonborn inside Coldcinder Cave under Raven Rock.

Solstheim alongside the rest of northern Tamriel as depicted by the Oculory.

Trivia[]

• To this day, Solstheim is the only region in the Elder Scrolls to appear exclusively in DLC, never a part of the base game.

Appearances[]

• The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (mentioned only)
  • The Elder Scrolls III: Bloodmoon
• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (mentioned only)
• An Elder Scrolls Novel: The Infernal City (mentioned only)
• An Elder Scrolls Novel: Lord of Souls
• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (mentioned only)
  • The Elder Scrolls V: Dragonborn
• The Elder Scrolls Online (mentioned only)

References[]