Online:Prince Azah

Prince Azah (lore page)
Home City	Sentinel
Location	Tava's Blessing
Race	Redguard	Gender	Male
Health	39,959
Reaction	Friendly
Other Information
Follower	Amputating the Hand (optional)
Faction(s)	Daggerfall Covenant Forebears Fighters Guild

Prince Azah

Prince Azah is a Redguard warrior and the son and heir of King Fahara'jad. He's a prominent ally in the fight against the Withered Hand in the Alikr's Desert.

After the events of the Planemeld, he joined the Fighters Guild to experience more of the world. With the Worm Cult resurgence and their attacks of the Fighters and Mages guilds, he became one of the key investigators of their plot.

Related Quests

•  Rise of the Dead: Investigate reports of the Withered Hand for King Fahara'jad.
•  The Impervious Vault: Stop the Withered Hand from raiding the Impervious Vault.
• In Search of the Ash'abah: Look for the Ash'abah in the deserts of Myrkwasa.
• Trouble at Tava's Blessing: Cross the Hollow Wastes and find the Prince.
•  Alasan's Plot: Stop a powerful necromancer from becoming a lich.
•  Amputating the Hand: End the threat of the Withered Hand in Alik'r.
• Restoring the Ansei Wards: Restore the Ansei's protection to the consecrated dead of the desert.
• A Guild in Crisis: Discover who attacks Fighters Guild halls by tracking Guildmaster Merric at-Aswala
• Justice for the Fallen: Discover the true scope of the plan that involves the Soul Reapers.

Quest-Related Events

Alik'r Desert

Rise of the Dead

Through a chase, you'll eventually find Azah in the caves below the city of Sentinel:

"I don't recognize you, but under the circumstances, I am pleased to make your acquaintance.
If you are here to render me aid, I can promise that you'll be well rewarded."

I'm just glad I found you, Your Highness.

If you completed Risen From the Depths:

"Ah, so you do know who I am then? Did my father put you up to this? Is he keeping tabs on me?
Well … I shouldn't be so accusatory. If he was tracking me, then I guess it turned out to be extremely fortunate."

If you have not completed Risen from the Depths:

"Ah, so you do know who I am then? Did my father put you up to this? Has he been watching me?
Well … I shouldn't be so accusatory. If he was tracking me, then I guess it turned out to be extremely fortunate."

The Impervious Vault

If you haven't started the quest, he will say:

"Well, this is embarrassing …."

If you completed Risen from the Depths:

"I don't wish to seem ungrateful, but you should know that kidnapping me was just a distraction.
The Withered Hand—they've been planning this for years. If only we had heard the rumors sooner. At this point, I don't think we can stop them."

Stop them from doing what?

"From tunneling into the Impervious Vault. This tunnel was just one of their attempts. It's a brilliant plan really.
The gates of the vault have been magically sealed for centuries, but underneath, the vault's apparently not so impervious."

Why do they want to break in to the vault?

"Undoubtedly they're hoping to steal the Ansei Wards. With the wards, Uwafa and Alasan could become unimaginably powerful.
It could be bad. Really bad. Even if we can't stop them, we have to try. We should get back to the palace and tell my father."

Sure. Let me untie you.

If you have not completed Risen from the Depths:

"I don't wish to sound ungrateful, but you should know that kidnapping me was just a distraction.
The Withered Hand has been planning this for years. If only we had heard the rumors sooner. At this point, I'm not sure we can stop them."

Stop them from doing what?

"From tunneling into the Impervious Vault. This was just one of their attempts. It's a brilliant plan really.
The gates of the vault have been magically sealed for centuries, but underneath, the vault's apparently not so impervious."

Why do they want to break in to the vault?

"Undoubtedly, they hope to steal the Ansei Wards. With the wards, Uwafa and Alasan could become unimaginably powerful. And that would be disastrous.
No matter the risks, we must try to stop them. Let's return to the palace and consult with my father."

Sure. Let me untie you.

Free him from his bindings.

If you completed Risen from the Depths:

Prince Azah : "Let's head south. There's a ladder leading up into the city."

If you have not completed Risen from the Depths:

Prince Azah : "There's a ladder to the south that leads up into the city."

If you do not go directly to the palace, when you do get there, Azah will be waiting for you:

"Thank you for meeting me."

We seem to have been separated somehow.

"Indeed. A thousand pardons. I am preoccupied, to say the least.
I must go and warn the guard about the threat to the Impervious Vault. If you would relay the news to my father, the king, though, I would be forever in your debt."

I will go speak to the king then.

However if you do go directly to the palace, Azah will follow you to the palace where he'll stop outside.

If you completed Risen from the Depths:

Prince Azah : "Go on and tell my father what they're planning! I'm going to call the guard to the vault!"

If you have not completed Risen from the Depths:

Prince Azah : "Tell my father, the king, what they're planning. I'll summon the guard to the vault!"

Either way, he'll then head to the vault.

Arrive at the entrance to the vault after soliciting Gabrielle Benele's help, and he'll be waiting with his father and General Thoda:

"I am tempted to apologize for you getting caught up in all this, but something tells me the hand of fate brought you here.
Besides, if we can't stop them from stealing the Ansei Wards, none of us will be safe."

Return from clearing the vault and he'll say:

"Glad you made it back safely, though I get the distinct impression that things did not go well in there …."

After the quest if you haven't started In Search of the Ash'abah, he will say:

"I regret that my father did not heed the warnings of the Ash'abah before, but I am truly grateful that you appeared to help set matters straight.
Sometimes one person can make all the difference."

In Search of the Ash'abah

After speaking to his father about the next steps, he'll say:

"Finally my father stops chasing the mirage! I advised him to listen to Ash'abah weeks ago, but better late than never, yes? Please, speak with Marimah, while I reach out to my Ash'abah contacts.
We will find a way to stop the Withered Hand."

Trouble at Tava's Blessing

A courier will arrive in Bergama to relay the Prince's request to meet with him at Tava's Blessing, to look for the second Ansei Ward. When you arrive, the town will already be overrun with the Withered Hand. Prince Azah will be holed up with Captain Rawan and Sergeant Hadima.

If you speak to him before starting Alasan's Plot, he'll greet you with:

"I am grateful to see a friendly face. In desperate moments, we need all the assistance we can get."

Alasan's Plot

No matter why you arrived in Tava's Blessing, you can speak with Azah to learn about the situation and how you can help out. If you choose to start the quest through him, he will say:

"Have faith, captain! The answer to our prayers has arrived!"

Whether you have been sent by Talia or start the quest directly through him:

"I heard the commotion out there and somehow knew it was you. It is good and good to see you, my illustrious friend.
Your arrival comes at a fortuitous time, as we are indeed in dire straits. And it will soon get much, much worse."

How will it get any worse?

"That fiend Alasan is here! With Uwafa dead, he has the Withered Hand twisted to his own designs.
He seeks power. The reason they aren't raising these people—it's because Alasan plans to turn himself into a lich!"

How would Alasan turn himself into a lich?

"He corrupted one of the Ansei Wards, using it as some sort of necromantic focus to channel energy from the the [sic] dead. He's performing a ritual in the lighthouse.
He says this ritual will transform him into a lich. Will you help me stop him?"

Yes. Just tell me what I need to do.

In previous updates, your dialogue used to be different:

"I heard the commotion out there and somehow knew it was you. It is good to see you, my illustrious friend.
Your arrival comes at a fortuitous time, as we are indeed in dire straits. And it will soon get much, much worse."

How will it get worse?

"That fiend Alasan is here! With Uwafa dead, he has the Withered Hand twisted to his own designs.
He seeks power. The reason they aren't raising these people—it's because Alasan plans to turn himself into a lich!"

How would Alasan turn himself into a lich?

"He corrupted one of the Ansei Wards, using it as some sort of necromantic focus to channel energy from the the [sic] dead. He's performing a ritual in the lighthouse.
He says this ritual will transform him into a lich. Will you help me stop him?"

Yes. Just tell me what to do.

You can ask him questions about Alasan's plan to become a lich, the Withered Hand's presence in Tava's Blessing or the overall mood in Sentinel:

"I believe we must first destroy the focuses. Alasan's minions have been piling the dead around them so they can channel energy for the ritual.
Destroy the focuses. Then go to the lighthouse and find a way to disrupt Alasan's ritual."

How did you learn of Alasan's plan to become a lich?

"When we arrived, the necromancers had already killed everyone. We cautiously crept closer and I spotted Alasan.
Evil has twisted his features, but I recognized him. We attacked, but you see how that turned out."

You knew Alasan before?

"Yes. Since we were knee-high to a dune beetle. He and Uwafa both. We studied together, but they were sadistic little cretins, obsessed with death in all its forms. That was before their father turned.
If only we had killed all of them back then."

Why did they come to Tava's Blessing? / Why did the Withered Hand attack Tava's Blessing?

"My father sent me because he feared the Withered Hand might target our navy.
I don't think that's why the necromancers came, though. Many centuries ago, this was the home of one of the Ansei. One who sacrificed themselves to create the wards."

Why would that matter?

"I suspect it has something to do with Alasan's plan to become a lich.
If this is where the Ansei was born, perhaps Alasan had to bring the ward here in order to corrupt it. That's just an educated guess, of course."

How have things been going in Sentinel? / How have things been in Sentinel?

"Not good, I'm afraid. Rumors about someone stealing the Ansei Wards run rampant. And every day there are new reports of risen dead.
The Crowns and some Forebears are calling for my father to step down. There's even talk of rebellion."

Once you destroy the focus sites and before you go to the lighthouse, he'll say:

"Whatever Alasan is doing, you must stop him.
I fear that if he succeeds in this endeavor, the future of Alik'r is in jeopardy."

After you have stopped Alasan's plans and restored the Ansei Ward, you can find Azah on the outskirts of town with Talia at-Marimah and Shiri.

"What foulness is afoot now? The dead have risen? I thought Alasan was purposefully not raising them!
Were we too late? Has Alasan transformed himself into a lich?"

No. Alasan is no longer a threat.

"He's not? We should rejoice then and relish the knowledge of his defeat.
Without Alasan, the rest of these necromancers do not concern me. Not in the least. But what of the Ansei Ward? Do you have it?"

Yes, but the Ansei asked me to give it to someone I trust.

"And you brought it to me? You honor me, hero. I pledge to you, for as long as I live, it will not fall into evil hands again.
Now, only the final Ansei Ward remains. But with Uwafa and Alasan gone, who could have it?"

Ansei Maja said there is another sibling.

"Another sibling? But who could that be? Wait, Suturah did have another child. A very young daughter.
I remember her now, nipping at her brothers' heels. But her name escapes me. Still, somehow we must find her."

If you exit out of the conversation before turning in the quest, he will say:

"You do me a great honor, entrusting me with this Ansei Ward. I pledge to you, for as long as I live, it will not fall into evil hands again.
Now, only the final Ansei Ward remains. But with Uwafa and Alasan gone, who could have it?"

Ansei Maja said there is another sibling. (Leads to quest completion dialogue)

If you talk with him afterwards, he will be planning to start the search for Suturah's daughter.

"I will send word to Sentinel. Perhaps my father or someone else at court can recall the name of Suturah's daughter.
Let's hope we can find her soon."

Amputating the Hand

While you were dealing with the Imperial incursion in Satakalaam, Talia and Prince Azah were dealing with the Withered Hand raising the consecrated dead in the Motalion Necropolis. Unfortunately, they were overwhelmed and Azah was captured. He can be found in one of the tombs, tied to a chair, a familiar scene which annoys him.

"Tava damn me for a fool! I can't believe I let you find me like this again! Once was humiliating enough!
There's no time for recriminations, though. The Withered Hand has stolen back the Ansei Wards we recovered! They have all three again!"

How did that happen?

"You gave Ansei Maja's Ward into my care, and so I carried it with me for safekeeping. Throne Keeper Farvad was here, too, with Ansei Radan's Ward.
I think Shiri planned it this way. She lured us here to get the wards back."

What makes you think Shiri planned all this?

"It is obvious to any with eyes to see. She fooled us all.
Apprenticing with Scholar Zohreh to learn about the Ansei Wards, coming with us to Tava's Blessing. She is wicked! Just like her father. She is the sibling we were warned about!"

How do we stop her?

"I do not know. And I have no idea as to what she has planned. If we get the Ansei Wards back, that should at least slow her down.
Shiri took Ansei Maja's Ward into the next chamber, where she performed some kind of ritual. I heard it from here."

Is she still in there?

"No. After she finished her ritual, she departed. I think she left the ward behind, though.
Please. Go in there and get it. Then find Throne Keeper Farvad and the ward he was carrying. I shall follow after … if you would untie me first, that is."

I'll untie you and then be on my way. / All right. I'll untie you first then. (You free him)

I have more questions first.

"Even so, if you could just untie me and let me stretch my muscles first, I'll answer all your questions."

Once he is untied he can be asked more questions:

"Mara's grace! The humiliation of being rescued twice … it makes me doubt all the training I received as heir to the throne.
You must retrieve the wards and quickly. If my father hears I had one and lost it, he'd pack me off to the Fighters Guild!"

Why didn't you recognize Shiri before? / Did you know Shiri before?

"I knew you'd ask that. I feel like such a fool. She was standing right behind us at Tava's Blessing, for Stendarr's sake!
After we parted ways, I tried so hard to remember the sister's name, but I just couldn't recall it."

When did you recognize her?

"Only after it was too late. She and her minions fell upon us as soon as we entered the necropolis. In her rage, I finally saw the family resemblance.
What about you? Did Talia tell you?"

No. I found her cousin's journal, which revealed who she was. (Appears if you completed The Search for Shiri)

"So you learned Shiri's true identity before I did? Truly, I am impressed!
I only hope such knowledge helps us stop her. First though, you must recover Ansei Maja's Ward, and then find Throne Keeper Farvad and the ward he was carrying."

Yes. Talia told me. (Appears if you bypassed The Search for Shiri)

"Praise the gods for Talia. And for you.
The two of you must go on. Recover Ansei Maja's Ward and then find Throne Keeper Farvad and the ward he was carrying."

Why would Shiri leave Ansei Maja's Ward here?

"She and her necromancers performed a ritual in there. I suspect that is why the ward remains.
I suggest you exercise caution when entering the room. I would assist you, but I need a few moments to recover. Talia will help you, though."

Are you sure Farvad is still alive?

"No, but I have a feeling he survived the attack.
I don't know if Tu'whacca truly speaks to him or not, but he has always struck me as someone who the gods smile down upon. Regardless, we have to look for him. We owe him that much."

Once you have rescued Farvad and helped him cleanse Ansei Rahan's Ward, you can meet up with Azah outside Suturah's tomb. When you arrive, there will be a dark blue barrier blocking the door.

"I know I told you Farvad was probably alive, but in my heart I was sure he had met a grisly end. I'm glad I was wrong. He's strange, but he's a tough old priest. I'm pleased you saved him and recovered his ward."

After you speak with Farvad, you can choose someone to accompany you to fight Shiri. Prince Azah is one of choices:

"You've been beside me in this battle since the beginning. You know I'll do whatever it takes to destroy the Withered Hand.
That said, Shiri's already proven more than a match for me. We have to win this one, so you need to take the lead."

You're the prince. Should you really put yourself at risk for this?

"To be honest, Shiri made me to appear a fool. The little waif who once nipped at her brothers' heels got the better of me. She defeated me.
I'll fight alongside you for revenge, if nothing else. Besides, with you at me side, there is no risk."

I want you to join me then, Your Highness.

Prince Azah then becomes your follower:

I need a moment before I make this decision.

<Ends Conversation.>

Depending on who is chosen, the other two will remain behind to unseal the door. The conversations will be as follows:

Talia as the Companion

Throne Keeper Farvad: "Tu'whacca demands justice be done!"

Prince Azah: "This wall will not stand before the power of an Ansei Ward."

<The barrier is removed>

Talia at-Marimah: "It is done, lead on."

Throne Keeper Farvad as the Companion

Throne Keeper Farvad: "Tu'whacca walks with you, and so will I."

<The Ansei Wards are channeled to unlock the door.>

Talia at-Marimah: "All right, let us open the door then."

Prince Azah: "This wall will not stand before the power of an Ansei Ward."

<The door is unsealed.>

Throne Keeper Farvad: "It is done. Tu'whacca says it is time for us to go in."

If Prince Azah as the Companion

Prince Azah: "All right. Farvad, Talia … you know what to do."

Talia at-Marimah: "All right, Let us open the door then."

<The Ansei Wards are channeled to unlock the door.>

Throne Keeper Farvad: "Tu'whacca demands justice be done!"

Prince Azah: "Yes! That did it. Lead on."

Restoring the Ansei Wards

Prince Azah is present at the ceremony in the Impervious Vault during Restoring the Ansei Wards.

"When I think back to when this all started, when the Withered Hand had captured me and was holding me beneath the city … I can't believe how far we've come.
It wasn't easy, but we defeated the Withered Hand. We're heroes now!"

Seasons of the Worm Cult Prologue

A Guild in Crisis

Prince Azah in Fighter's Guild garments

Azah can be found at the Artisans' Row in Davon's Watch, to the north of the Mages Guild hall in Daggerfall, or at the Harborside Market in Vulkhel Guard. As you get closer, you'll hear him speaking:

Prince Azah: "Master Merric, where are you?"

Speaking with him, he will recognize you if you met previously in the Alik'r Desert zone:

Met Previously in Alik'r Desert:	Member of Guild, First Time Meeting:	Non-member, First Time Meeting:
"Friend! Your timely arrival gives me hope that the sands of disaster can finally be turned. The Fighters Guild is under assault. Four guildhalls have already fallen and now Guildmaster Merric has disappeared. We need to find him before all is lost." Who's attacking the Fighters Guild?	"Comrade, the Fighters Guild is under assault. As a member, you deserve to know that four guildhalls have already fallen. And now Guildmaster Merric has disappeared. As much as it pains me to admit, I need assistance to track him down." Who's attacking the Fighters Guild?	"Honor and faith, traveler. I could use your assistance. The Fighters Guild is under assault. Already, four guildhalls have fallen. And now, Master Merric, leader of the guild, has disappeared. It pains me to admit it, but I need help." (?)

"So far, distinctive clues elude us and no one has claimed credit for the attacks.
At this rate, they could destroy the guild before we learn anything. It's the biggest crisis since the Planemeld, but without Merric, I'm not sure how to proceed."

You said Guildmaster Merric has disappeared?

"Yes. Merric was supposed to meet me here, but he never arrived. While most of the guild secures the remaining guildhalls, I could use some outside help to track down our guildmaster. Then together we can stop these attacks.
Can I hire you, wayfarer?"

I'm in. Let's find Merric and stop the attacks on the Fighters Guild. / I'm ready to go look for Guildmaster Merric.

After you agree to help, Prince Azah will have you select one of the locations to investigate. You can ask him about each place before you decide:

"I've received conflicting reports from trusted guild scouts. Merric has supposedly been sighted in Malabal Tor, northern Alik'r Desert, and Eastmarch.
Obviously, he can't be everywhere. Choose a location to investigate and meet the scout there."

I'm ready to go look for Guildmaster Merric.

"Merric is many things, but mage is not one of them. I trust the scouts, but he could not be in three distant places at the same time. I need you to make your best guess. Pick a location and see if you can find our missing guildmaster."

Where did the reports say Merric was spotted again?

"Scouts sent reports of Merric being sighted in Malabal Tor, the Alik'r Desert, and Eastmarch."

It's obvious that you're worried about Merric. I'll do whatever I can to help you find him.

"I appreciate that. With Merric missing, I need to coordinate the defense of the guildhalls, analyze scouting reports, and try to learn more about our attackers. Just know the compensation we offer is fair and equitable. Your aid will be rewarded."

If you care so much about Merric, why aren't you out there trying to find him yourself?

"You dare question my commitment to Master Meric? I've spent days trying to find him! But in the guildmaster's absence, someone has to keep the rest of the guild on track—coordinate defenses, deploy our scouts. You agreed to do a job so get to it!"

You can then ask him the following questions about the locations and pick which one to investigate:

What do the reports from Malabal Tor say?

"A guild scout talked to hunters who said they spotted Merric near Vulkwasten. That area contains many nooks and crannies among the rocks to hide in, and Daedra roam the vicinity as well."

Sounds likely. I'll go search in Malabal Tor.

Tell me about the report from the Alik'r Desert.

"Both Merric and I know the desert well, but I have no idea why he would go there. Still, a guild scout claims to have spotted him in Sentinel's outskirts. If you decide this the spot, I suggest you search for him among the cliffs there."

I'll go search in the Alik'r Desert.

Describe the report from Eastmarch.

"A guild scout says Merric was spotted outside Windhelm. A place of snow and ice, and Merric hates the cold. Still, if some clue pointed here, he wouldn't let a little weather stop him."

It's as good a place to look as any. I'll go search in Eastmarch.

After you select a location, Prince Azah will allow you to use his horse for fast travel. At this point you can take the opportunity and ask some questions:

"Wimi is a fast and faithful mount. She can get you to the location quickly. I'll send word to the guild scout. They'll meet you and help you search for Merric. Then they can get word back to me while I follow up with the other reports.
Good luck."

I have some questions about the situation.

"I would be surprised if you didn't, comrade. What can I tell you, bearing in mind that our understanding of the facts is incomplete at best?"

What are you doing in the Fighters Guild, Prince Azah?

"After the events in the Alik'r Desert and the Planemeld crisis, my father, King Fahara'jad, thought I should learn more about the wider world. Preparation for one day ruling in his stead, I suppose. So I joined the Fighters Guild."

Why the Fighters Guild?

"They fought well during the Planemeld crisis, and they do not take sides in the ongoing war of the alliances. Where better to hone my skills and learn about the world?
Guildmaster Merric took me under his wing. He is like a second father to me."

Sounds like you care about the guildmaster.

"I respect Guildmaster Merric and care about all my guild comrades. Merric is a hard taskmaster, but he is fair and honorable. He's taught me many and many things.
It did not feel right to leave him, but he gave me a task and I had to complete it."

Fighters Guild Storyline incomplete:

Completed Fighters Guild storyline:

Tell me about Guildmaster Merric. "Merric's an excellent fighter—smart, brave, and quick. A true follower of Stendarr. And he's a good mentor. Since becoming guildmaster, he hasn't stopped leading from the front of the charge. It inspires the guild but puts him in constant peril." How did he become guildmaster? "That's a tale from before I joined. It happened during the Planemeld crisis. The prior guildmaster, Sees-All-Colors, betrayed the guild. She killed her predecessor to earn her rank. When the council found out, they removed her and promoted Merric." And now Merric is missing? "We were following up on the attacks but not getting very far. He sent me to file a report with the guild. Then I was supposed to meet him here. He never arrived. When I informed the guild of the situation, the scouting reports started coming in."

I met Merric after I joined the Fighters Guild. "As I understand it, he hasn't changed much since becoming guildmaster. I know he has mixed feelings about how he got the position, but he's been a shining example for the guild. There's no one I'd rather serve. No one I'd rather learn from." And now Merric is missing? "We were following up on the attacks but not getting very far. He sent me to file a report with the guild. Then I was supposed to meet him here. He never arrived. When I informed the guild of the situation, the scouting reports started coming in."

What else do you know about the guildhall attacks?

"Devastatingly brutal affairs. And thorough. Not a single survivor. And we only found the remains of guild members. The attackers must take their dead or they strike so fast that no one can react.
But how were they able to get past the defenses?"

What do you mean?

"Guildhalls are well defended. They're filled with some of the best fighters in all of Tamriel. Assaults at the entrances would create damage, but there's no evidence of such.
It's like they walked right in and suddenly attacked from deep inside."

How could that happen?

"Guildmaster Merric and I were trying to figure that out. I can only assume that he discovered something and followed after it, which is why he isn't here. Something so urgent he could leave no note.
We need to find Merric and get some answers."

After you have finished with speaking Prince Azah:

Prince Azah: "Take my horse, Wimi. She'll get you to the site quickly. I'll send word so the scout meets you there."

When you travel to search for Guildmaster Merric, you will meet and join with Skordo the Knife for the investigation. While tracking Merric, you will find a surviving Worm Cultist that the Guildmaster had spared and interrogated. They will tell you about their leader Mezamma who was meeting with a Mages Guild Magister in a nearby town. Tracking down the mage in question, you will learn that a mysterious woman had accosted then stole the mage's form before leaving on a carvan for Shornhelm, Rivenspire. More concerning is that mage was supposed to attend a secret Guild meeting within the city.

Guildmaster Merric will already left to chase Mezamma to Rivenspire. You can then take Wimi to arrive at Shornhelm, where you will encounter Prince Azah and Gabrielle Benele standing outside the Underground Sanctum:

Gabrielle Benele: "I appreciate the Fighters Guild coming to our aid, Prince Azah."

<Prince Azah notices you and Skordo approaching.>

Prince Azah: "Comrade, Skordo, I came as soon as I received your message."

Skordo the Knife: "Gabrielle, Azah! The Worm Cult is going to attack the Mages Guild!"

Gabrielle Benele: "They're already here. Merric arrived before you and the prince. He ran down to help."

Skordo the Knife: "The attack's begun and Merric ran down there? Damn! Tell Gabrielle what we learned, but be quick about it!"

You can speak with Prince Azah before Gabrielle:

"I came as soon as Skordo's message reached me, but apparently Guildmaster Merric beat us all to the battle. Tell Gabrielle what you learned and then we can get below to help as best we can."

After you explain what's going on to Gabrielle, Prince Azah will accompany you as a follower as you enter the Sanctum:

Gabrielle Benele: "The door to the underground chambers is right over there. Be careful!"

Prince Azah: "Go, comrade. We need to help the guildmaster!"

Speaking with Azah before entering:

"Merric is my mentor and guildmaster. If he battles the Worm Cult in the bowels of a Mages Guild sanctum, then I should be at his side.
Let's go deal with these cowardly invaders."

Entering the Underground Sanctum, you will find the bodies of dead adepts and broken furniture, Prince Azah will look around and comment:

Prince Azah: "Let's look for Guildmaster Merric, but be ready to take down any cultists you see."

Speaking with Prince Azah as you explore the sanctum:

"We must find Guildmaster Merric and stop the Worm Cult invaders before another guildhall is lost. Let's push forward, comrade."

After dealing with two Armancers and their Flesh Colossus summon, Prince Azah will comment:

Prince Azah: "The Mages Guild built all this under Shornhelm? I wonder if the people know what lies beneath their feet."

As you turn a corner deeper within the sanctum, the ground and walls will begin to shake:

Prince Azah: "Did you feel that? Hurry! Through those doors ahead!"

You then follow the corridor west until you reach the doors to the meeting place. Going the doors you find an chasm has opened up in the floor, blocking you from helping Guildmaster Merric as he's attacked by a Harvester:

Prince Azah: "Look, across the chasm! Guildmaster Merric! The Worm Cult has him!"

<Prince Azah runs to the ledge and watches Mezamma drains Guildmaster Merric's essence.>

Prince Azah: "Let my mentor go, foul creature!"

<Guildmaster Merric breaks free, killing one cultist and throwing the other at Mezamma, before running towards the Soul Reaper.>

Mezamma: "Stop, mortal! The soul reaper is not yet stable!"

<Guildmaster Merric bashes the Soul Reaper device, and it is destroyed, but Merric is thrown back by the explosion.>

Prince Azah: "Merric! No!"

Prince Azah: "That explosion. Stendarr preserve him, Merric was caught in the blast!"

<Mezamma opens a portal.>

Mezamma: "A dead mortal's appearance is no good to me. Come. We're done here."

Worm Cultist: "As you wish, Mezamma."

<The surviving Worm Cultist gets up from the ground and follows Mezamma through the portal.>

Prince Azah: "No, Merric can't be dead. We need to reach him!"

Prince Azah runs through the ruins and through a nearby door leading to Merric's body:

Prince Azah: "Stendarr, please. Merric can't be dead. He just can't."

As Prince Azah nears Guildmaster Merric's body, he kneels beside him:

Prince Azah: "By the gods! Merric!"

Prince Azah: "Merric's … dead. By the swords of my forefathers, I will make the Worm Cult pay."

<A portal opens nearby and Gabrielle Benenle arrives through it.>

Gabrielle Benele: "I came as quick as—oh, no. Merric. The magisters. What happened?"

Prince Azah: "Merric destroyed the Worm Cult device. It exploded and killed him."

<Prince Azah stands up.>

Prince Azah: "Comrade, please. Search the area and gather Guildmaster Merric's weapons."

Speaking with Prince Azah before searching:

"Merric. My friend and mentor. Dead. It hardly seems possible. He was always so strong. So capable. Forgive me, but this is … difficult.
Please, gather Merric's weapons and see if anything that remains can tell us about the device that killed him."

Picking up Guildmaster Merric's Sword:

Prince Azah: "That was his father's sword. Merric wielded it proudly."

Picking up Guildmaster Merric's Shield:

Prince Azah: "Merric would polish that shield for hours. It was almost a ritual for him."

Reading Summons to the Remnant:

Prince Azah: "You found something? Let me see."

You can also inspect the broken soul reaper and Gabrielle will comment on that. Once you searched everything, you can speak with Prince Azah:

"What a loss. Merric was our leader. My mentor. Practically a father to me since I joined the Fighters Guild. Thank you for gathering his sword and shield. Strange, though, that a Daedra was leading these Worm Cultists.\n\nWhat was that note you found?"

One of the cultists must have dropped it. It's a summons for them to gather at a Worm Nest.

"Let me see. A Worm Cult nest on Rivenspire's northern coast? Stendarr blesses us with another foolish enemy, quick to put their plans to paper.
First, however, we must go to the Fighters Guildhall in Shornhelm. Tell Skordo what befell Merric."

Afterwards, Gabrielle and Prince Azah will have a brief talk:

Gabrielle Benele: "Use the nearby doors to leave. When you assault the Worm Nest, the Mages Guild will join you. You have my word."

Prince Azah: "Gabrielle … can you help me take care of Guildmaster Merric?"

<Gabrielle walks over to Prince Azah.>

Gabrielle Benele: "Of course, Prince Azah."

Speaking with Prince Azah again before leaving:

"Go on to the Fighters Guildhall here in Shornhelm. We need to let Skordo and the others know that Guildmaster Merric is … dead. I'll meet you there after Gabrielle and I … take care of things here.
After that, though? We hunt worms."

When you enter the Shornhelm Fighters Guildhall, Prince Azah will arrive with you:

Skordo the Knife: "Prince Azah, the guildhall's on high alert. I was about to lead a contingent of fighters to the Mages Guild."

Prince Azah: "The battle's over, Skordo. Guildmaster Merric is … dead."

Skordo the Knife: "What? Not Merric! Hey pal, tell me what happened."

If you try speaking with Azah before Skordo:

"Tell Skordo what happened, friend. I'm not sure I can coherently get through the specifics of the terrible tale, not while the wound in my heart is still raw."

After telling Skordo about what happened and the lead to the local Worm Nest:

Prince Azah: "Guildmaster Merric is really dead, Skordo. I … I don't know how we're going to stop the Worm Cult without him."

You can then speak with Prince Azah to convince him to keep it together:

"Skordo's correct. This is bad. How are we going to stop Mezamma and the Worm Cult without Guildmaster Merric to guide us?"

We have to do something, Prince Azah.

"I hear your words, but my mind is a storm of emotions. Merric. My friend. My mentor. He died and I couldn't save him. I wasn't even at his side. I wasn't there to help him when he needed me the most.
Stendarr help me, I don't know what to do!"

Yes you do. Guildmaster Merric taught you well, didn't he?

"You're right, comrade. Guildmaster Merric taught me very well, indeed. As did my father, King Fahara'jad, and my many tutors in Sentinel.
We may have lost Merric, but we can still win this war. Thank you for making me see that."

Of course, Prince Azah.

All right. I'll grab a few bottles of wine and we can strategize. That should get the ideas flowing!

"I see what you're doing. Using absurdity to make me clear my mind and remember my duty. I must focus on everything my father, King Fahara'jad, taught me. Everything I learned from Guildmaster Merric. Only then can we defeat the Worm Cult."

Of course, Prince Azah.

Snap out of it, Azah! Show some damn courage and avenge your fallen comrades!

"You dare speak to a prince of the realm like that? Using harsh words to ignite the fires of anger … and burn away the depression that was dampening my resolve. Well done.
We may have lost Merric, but we're not done yet. Thank you for reminding me."

Of course, Prince Azah.

At this point, you can continue to speak with him to complete the quest. If you leave and return to the conversation he will say:

"My mind is clear and our goal is set. We must find Mezamma and stop the plans of this resurrected Worm Cult. It's what Guildmaster Merric would want to do … if he were still with us."

So what now, Prince Azah?

Picked neutral response:	Picked Kind response[verification needed — see talk page]:	Picked Grim response[verification needed — see talk page]:
"Your words were like a strong wind in the desert, scattering the sand of despair that was smothering my soul. Before we take action, I want to commend you and reward you for your service. And ask that you stay to finish this with us. For Merric."	"Your words were like a warm breeze, gently clearing away the despair that filled my thoughts. Before we take action, I want to commend you and reward you for your service. And ask that you stay to finish this with us. For Merric."	"Your words were like a raging fire in the forest, incinerating the despair that was strangling my soul. Before we take action, I want to commend you and reward you for your service. And ask that you stay to finish this with us. For Merric."

Justice for the Fallen

In the wake of Guildmaster Merric's death and the Worm Cult attacks on the Guilds, it is time to go on the offensive and find and destroy the Worm Nest. You can start the quest by speaking with Prince Azah.

If you left and returned to Prince Azah, you may hear him speak as you approach:

"Come, comrades. We have plans to make."

Talk with Prince Azah to see what needs to be done:

"You helped me realize that the world doesn't stop just because someone we respected and cared about is no longer with us.
Now that we know the enemy, the time has come to take the battle to the Worm Cult."

What's the plan, Prince Azah?

"The note we discovered talked about a Worm Nest on the northern coast of Rivenspire. We must gather our forces, storm their lair, and deal with the Worm Cult leader, Mezamma."

The note could have been left there as a trap.

"Perhaps, but I don't think so. Everything happened quickly after Merric destroyed the soul reaper and Mezamma retreated.
The job I hired you for ended when we found Merric, but I'd like to extend your employment. Help us assault the Worm Cult nest."

I'll help you destroy the Worm Cult nest and defeat Mezamma.

After you agree to help, Gabrielle Benele will walk through the door:

Gabrielle Benele: "Pardon the interruption. Vanus Galerion would like to talk to you. He's right outside."

Prince Azah: "The leader of the Mages Guild? His assistance could be crucial to destroying the Worm Nest!"

<Gabrielle, Prince Azah and Skordo the Knife all exit the building.>

Outside, Prince Azah will greet Vanus Galerion:

Prince Azah: "Welcome, Vanus. We're glad to be working alongside you and your guild again."

Vanus Galerion: "There's no time for niceties, Azah. You there, come speak to me."

Speaking to Prince Azah before Vanus Galerion:

"I remember Vanus Galerion visiting my father's court when I was a child. He always made a spectacle of things.
But with Merric dead, it will be good to have another guildmaster beside us when we face Mezamma and her cultists."

After explaining past events to Vanus, he will make a suggestion for interim leadership of the Fighters Guild:

Vanus Galerion: "The Fighters Guild requires leadership. I suggest Prince Azah take command until your council can select a new guildmaster."

Skordo the Knife: "He's right, Azah. And you know the rest of the guild is more likely to follow you than they are me."

Prince Azah: "As much as I want to be there with you, I see the wisdom in Vanus's words. I'll stay behind to command the guild."

You can talk with Prince Azah before you leave to find the Worm Nest:

"My heart screams for vengeance, but Vanus's words ring true. I've been trained to take the throne of Hammerfell when King Fahara'jad, hopefully many years from now, steps down. I am most qualified to serve as interim leader of the guild."

That's it? You just decide to take charge and suddenly you're the leader of the Fighters Guild?

"Consider it the equivalent of a field promotion. I've trained under Guildmaster Merric since I joined the guild. And I've been groomed to be a king. The guild will follow me in this time of crisis. Then the council can select a suitable replacement."

You can then head to the Worm Cult Nest on the northern coast of Rivenspire. Working with Vanus, you find out more about the Soul Reapers and how to disassemble them, along with some hints of the Worm Cult's plans. However, Vanus Galerion is captured by the disguised Mezamma and casts him through a portal to an unknown place.

With only Vanus's staff left behind, you, Skordo and Gabrielle need to return to the Shornhelm Mages Guild and tell Prince Azah what occurred:

Prince Azah: "Tell me what happened. Where's Vanus?"

Gabrielle Benele: "I'll let our friend fill you in. I need to think."

Speak with Prince Azah and tell him what happened:

"I came as soon as I received Gabrielle's summons, just in time to see you all return. But where's Vanus? And why do Gabrielle and Skordo look so haggard? What happened at that Worm Nest, comrade?"

Vanus and I discovered a way to safely destroy the soul reapers. And we know their specific purpose.

"We can destroy the soul reapers without unleashing a killing explosion? That's excellent news! I can't wait to hear the details.
But what do they actually do? And by the swords of my forefathers, tell me what happened to Vanus!"

The reapers steal souls. The cult has enough to cover Tamriel. As for Vanus, Mezamma captured him.

"Mezamma and the Worm Cult captured Vanus Galerion? The leader of the Mages Guild and the greatest mage alive? You probably should have led with that, comrade!
First Merric, now Vanus. By Stendarr's beard, what other disasters can befall us?"

Mezamma took Skordo's form and said "First the Mages' head. Next the Fighters' heart" as she left.

"Hmm. The Mages' head obviously refers to Vanus As for the Fighters' heart, she already killed Merric. I'm just a temporary substitute for the duration of this crisis. What could she—
Zeht's tears, she means to attack the Earth Forge!"

Completed Fighters Guild Storyline:	Otherwise:
Merric and I forged a weapon at the Earth Forge once. "Merric told me about that. You destroyed the Mortuum Vivicus with the weapon, yes? So you know the power of the Earth Forge. Mezamma can look like anyone, and she currently wears Skordo's form. She can walk right in! We need to get there now!"	What's the Earth Forge? "An ancient Dwarven forge now controlled by the Fighters Guild. It creates items of immense power. Merric used it to craft a weapon strong enough to destroy a Daedric artifact. As Skordo, Mezamma will walk right in. We need to get there now!"

At this, Gabrielle will interject:

Gabrielle Benele: "I can open a portal to the Earth Forge. Then Prince Azah and I have our own task to attend to."

<Gabrielle opens a portal to the Earth Forge nearby.>

Prince Azah: "We do? What can be more important than defending the Earth Forge and stopping Mezamma?"

Gabrielle Benele: "Enough reapers to cover all of Tamriel? We need to convince the alliances to join with the guilds. Just like last time."

Skordo the Knife: "Good luck with that! It took Vanus to get the alliance leaders to work together last time. Wait, you know where the Earth Forge is?"

Gabrielle Benele: "The Antiquarian Circle knows many secrets, Skordo. Now go. You have your mission and we have ours."

Prince Azah: "Right. Come on, pal, through the portal!"

Speaking to Prince Azah before leaving through the portal:

"I'd prefer to head to the Earth Forge with you and Skordo, but I understand Gabrielle's concern. It will take both of us, each representing our guilds, to convince the leaders of the Three Alliances that the Worm Cult threat has returned.
Now, go!"

While you and Skordo hunt down Mezamma at the Earth Forge, Prince Azah and Gabrielle will have been contacting the alliances and having their ambassadors meet at Stirk. Once Mezamma is slain, Gabrielle will arrive and provide a portal to Stirk so you can assist with the negotiations.

When you arrive at the meeting place, Prince Azah will be getting frustrated:

Prince Azah: "Ambassadors, please! You must listen!"

Ambassador Telnintor: "Those attacks in Auridon? Prince Azah says it's the Worm Cult!"

Ambassador Elsrenn: "What does it matter? We can't fight wars in both Cyrodiil and our sovereign territory!"

Ambassador Geonette: "Prince Azah said Gabrielle was bringing the hero who uncovered this plot. Let's hear them out."

Talking with Azah before your ambassador:

"I grew up around men and women such as these, comrade. I know how to lead opposing sides to equitable solutions—or thought I did. But these representatives confound me with their hardheadedness.
See if you can talk sense into your ambassador."

After you have informed your ambassador of the situation, Vanus's staff will begin to glow purple in Gabrielle's hands. She will urge you to touch it, but you can speak with Prince Azah beforehand:

"The staff is reacting to you. That's a good sign, don't you think? Anyway, do as Gabrielle says and see what occurs."

Touching the staff, a projection of Vanus will appear. If you talk to Azah before Vanus:

"Vanus still lives? Excellent news indeed! Talk to him and let us see what message he conveys."

Speaking with Vanus, he will explain that the Worm Cult is amassing forces for an full-scale attack and that the Soul Reapers are just the start. As for his location, he says that it feel somewhat like Coldharbour but not entirely and that he heard the name Solstice from one of his guards.

Afterwards the projection will disappear:

Ambassador Telnintor: "If even the great Vanus Galerion is worried about this threat … we have to act. Now."

Prince Azah: "There's no time to waste, comrade. Come, let us speak."

Speak to Prince Azah to complete the quest:

"Between your efforts and Vanus's message, the alliance ambassadors finally seem willing to throw us their support. And from what Vanus told us, I suspect we'll need it.
A rescue must wait. The threat hiding on Solstice is our first priority."

So what now, Prince Azah?

"Just as the alliances, guilds, and heroes of Tamriel joined forces on Stirk to end the Planemeld, we must do so again to stop the Worm Cult on Solstice.
Your actions were instrumental in revealing this threat. I hope we can count on you again."

After you have completed the quest, the ambassadors will agree to request their alliances send forces to help. Skordo will suggest calling the forces the Stirk Fellowship. You can then speak with Prince Azah afterwards:

"Stirk Fellowship? Yes, Skordo suggests a good name. I will do my best to lead the Fighters Guild and make Merric proud.
As soon as we get clarity on the obstacles we face, I'll send for you. Until then, Stendarr keep you safe, comrade."

What obstacles are you talking about, Prince Azah?

"Our way forward is blocked by three primary obstacles. The Stirk Fellowship must still be organized, we don't know where the island of Solstice hides in the vast seas, and we have only the barest idea where Vanus is imprisoned."

I assumed the Stirk Fellowship was all set.

"While the guilds and the three alliances have agreed to work together to combat the Worm Cult in principal, there are still treaties to be signed, logistics to work out, and plans to be finalized. That will fill mine and Gabrielle's days for a time."

How are you going to locate the island of Solstice?

"That task will most likely fall upon the Mages Guild and the scholars and sages of the alliances. If there is even the merest mention of Solstice in an old scroll or text, we will find it."

Shouldn't our priority be to rescue Vanus Galerion?

"The rescue of Vanus is crucial, but stopping the threat posed by the Worm Cult and their soul reapers must be our first priority. And to do that, we need to locate Solstice and transport our forces there.
We'll save Vanus as well. This I swear."

Gallery

• 

  Old look

• 

  Old look before Update 45

Notes

• With Update 45 Prince Azah's model was updated and his prior dialogue in the Alik'r Desert zone was rewritten and redubbed.
• Prince Azah has a Meet the Character entry.