General:Discover the Organizations You'll Encounter in Summerset

Originally published May 17, 2018. The original article can be found here.

The Isle of Summerset is home to many different organizations. Some of these groups are powerful, some are mysterious, and some are marvelous! Find out about a few of the institutions you'll encounter when exploring the home of the High Elves in this preview article.

The Divine Prosecution

If you engage in criminal activities during your time in Summerset, you might find yourself at odds with the Divine Prosecution. However, be warned: they are much more than simple guards or officers of the law.

"Unlike the local watch, the Divine Prosecution are a kind of state-level law enforcement organization," explains Lawrence Schick, The Elder Scrolls Online's Loremaster. "They are tasked with enforcing not just the temporal laws, but also the religious laws of the High Elves, meaning that they are the ones who hunt down heresy, and this primarily means Daedra worship."

Headquartered in Alinor, the Divine Prosecution's authority reaches all corners of Summerset. As an outsider, when you explore the isle, you'll encounter the organization as either someone who is suspected of Daedra worship, or as someone who can help them in their investigations. Let's hope it's the latter!

The Psijic Order

An ancient monastic order, the Psijic Order are rumored to be the first people to systematically study and control magic in Tamriel. True or not, the organization has worked in secret for thousands of years to expand their knowledge of the workings of the universe, and they rarely play an active role in the affairs of the people of Tamriel.

Based on the island of Artaeum, the Psijic Order's headquarters vanished centuries ago, taking the island and all of its inhabitants with it. It is only now during the mid-Second Era that members of the Order have begun to return to Tamriel, even if the island itself remains hidden from view.

Masters of magic and mysticism, the Psijic Order's aversion to sharing their knowledge reportedly led to the self-imposed exile of Vanus Galerion and the eventual founding of the Mages Guild. Whatever their intentions and however secretive, the Psijic Order has had an undeniable impact on Tamriel, and as you begin your adventures in this new land, you'll discover first-hand what their return means for the people of Summerset and beyond.

The Sapiarchs

Sages and academics, the Sapiarchs are the keepers of knowledge in Summerset and custodians of the Crystal Tower. Based in the city of Lillandril, the College of Sapiarchs is currently led by the sage known as Larnatille, and the group forms an essential part of the administration of High Elf society.

"Every Sapiarch is reputedly the most knowledgeable person in the Summerset Isles about their specialty of mysticism, science, history, mythology, whatever!" says Lawrence. "There are Sapiarchs for everything, and they are in charge of the heritage of knowledge within their area and enhancing and refining that knowledge within certain limitations."

Much of this work is done from the Crystal Tower itself, and the ancient monument is primarily used as a scholarly research library or laboratory. Indeed, the Sapiarchs have complete control over the Crystal Tower and the knowledge it contains, and as you explore Summerset, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about their studies and place in High Elf society.

The House of Reveries

A performing troupe based in Rellenthil, the House of Reveries entertains and delights their audiences with live performances in the heart of Summerset. Surprisingly secretive and mysterious, members of the House of Reveries cover their faces while performing with colorful and exotic masks.

While their masks play an important part in their shows and add dramatic effect, they also provide a much-needed service for the actors and actresses themselves: they allow them to perform without fear of suffering from the High Elves' sometimes over-developed sense of propriety.

Free to practice their art, whatever it may be, those who join the House of Reveries discover a new life that is theirs for the making. Should you find yourself in need of distraction or entertainment, make your way to the Manor of Masques in Rellenthil and be prepared to enjoy the show. Heck, if Dibella has granted you the talent, you might even find your way onto the stage!

***

Are you ready to explore the home of the High Elves? You're sure to encounter the above groups when you do. Tell us which organization you're most excited to meet when you're traveling Summerset on Twitter @ TESOnline and Facebook!