Oblivion:Countess Narina Carvain

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Countess Narina Carvain (RefID: 00036276) (lore page)
Home City	Bruma
House	Castle Bruma
Race	Imperial	Gender	Female
Level	10	Class	Noble
RefID	00036276	BaseID	00035EBB
Other Information
Health	98	Magicka	112
Responsibility	100	Aggression	5
Essential	Always
Faction(s)	Bruma Citizens; Bruma Castle; Nobility 0(Knight)

Narina Carvain in the Main Hall of her Castle

Narina Carvain is an Imperial noble and the Countess of Bruma. She is a Nibenean Heartlander and has a great interest in Akaviri artifacts, her collection of which can be seen in the throne room. She is looking for an experienced adventurer to find an artifact in Lifting the Vale.

She wears a blue silk shirt, blue silks and blue suede shoes. She has a sizable amount of gold, a leveled piece of jewelry and keys to the Castle Bruma interior and exterior.

The countess wakes up early every day at 6am and wanders near the entrance area of the Lords Manor in Castle Bruma until 8am, when she will descend to her throne in the Great Hall and hold court until 6pm. From 6pm to 8pm she will again retire to the Lords Manor and pace near the entrance, before returning to the Great Hall to enjoy a formal dinner from 8pm until midnight. At midnight she will return to her bedroom in the Lords Manor and sleep for the rest of the night. On Sundas she heads to the Great Chapel of Talos at 6pm sharp, where she worships for two hours before heading back to the Great Hall for dinner at 8pm.

The only exception to this schedule is during the quest Defense of Bruma, when she sits on her throne night and day awaiting your arrival. Once you arrive, she will leave the castle and seek out Martin at the Great Chapel of Talos to hear his plan, accompanied by Captain Burd. She will subsequently return to the castle and resume her normal schedule.

Related Quests

• Buying a house in Bruma: Purchase a large house in the traditional style of Bruma.
• Lifting the Vale: Countess Narina Carvain wants you to find the Draconian Madstone.
• Defense of Bruma: Let a Great Oblivion Gate open outside of Bruma.

Dialogue

She welcomes you warmly when you approach:

"It's a pleasure to see you."

"Good day to you."

When you speak to her for the first time, she will introduce herself:

"Lady Narina Carvain, Countess Bruma. Welcome. You'll excuse me if I keep this brief, but affairs of the county await me."

Bruma

"Some see only the conflicts between northern and southern cultures, but I see the way they are stronger when woven together."

If greeted a second time:

"Welcome to Bruma Castle. What's brought you here today?"

When leaving conversation she will say:

"May the Divines smile upon you."

Members of the Bruma Castle faction can also share information on the topic of Countess of Bruma:

"She holds public audience in the Great Hall on weekday mornings. If you need to speak to her, that's the time to do it."

Quest-Related Events

Buying a house in Bruma

If you're interested in buying a house in Bruma, Narina is selling one located next to the main gate:

Buy a house in town

"I've been looking for just the right owner for a special home I have. It's a quaint little house conveniently located just off the main gate."

I'll gladly pay 10,000 gold for it.

"Wonderful. I'll have the deed transfered [sic] to you. Here is your key to the door. As I said, it's located right by the main gate. I've had a look at the place myself, and it could use some furnishings inside. Quite barren in there I'm afraid. I'm fairly certain that Suurootan at Novaroma here in Bruma can acquire the things you'll need to make it look like home."

I don't think I'm ready to buy.

"I'd prefer to only discuss the property with serious buyers."

I can't afford 10,000 gold.

"What a shame. I guess I have to look for another buyer."

Lifting the Vale

Before the quest has started, and once you have obtained at least 10 Fame, citizens of Bruma can be heard saying:

"I overheard a guard mention the Countess is looking for a piece to add to her collection of Akaviri artifacts. Our taxpayer's drakes at work..."

This adds the Akaviri Artifacts topic; if asked, citizens will suggest you talk to Tolgan:

"If you're interested in assisting the Countess, you can always seek out Tolgan. He's usually in the Castle."

If you've not yet spoken to Tolgan about her proposition, she will greet you with:

"I think I know why you're here, but I'd speak to my herald, Tolgan, first. I believe he has something for you. Then return to me."

When you exit conversation at this point, she will say:

"Just speak to Tolgan... you'll see."

If you have spoken to him, she will express satisfaction with your deeds:

"I've heard much about your deeds from my people in Bruma. I trust that the stipend Tolgan gave you whetted your appetite?"

Yes, that's why I'm here.

"Good point. Allow me to formally introduce myself. I'm Countess Narina Carvain. I assume you've noticed all of the Akaviri relics I'm displaying. Well, it's safe to say I'm a collector of sorts. I've invested a great deal of time and money acquiring these bits of ancient history. In fact, I'd be so bold as to proclaim my collection the most complete in all Cyrodiil; perhaps even beyond. Except for one thing. A particular relic has eluded me for many years. Possessing this piece of Akaviri antiquity would make my collection complete. I'm of course referring to The Draconian Madstone."

If you leave conversation now, she will plead: "Please consider my proposal."

If you speak to her again she will say:

"Hear me out before you make your decision."

Draconian Madstone

"The stone is a fine bit of Akaviri craftsmanship. Worn like an amulet, this talisman is said to protect the wearer from poisons of any type. The Madstone appears as a snake coiled around and encircling itself. The eyes of the snake are supposed to be precious gems or some such. Through my sources, I've learned that the last reported location of the Madstone was the ruins at Pale Pass."

Pale Pass

"Are you familiar with the history of Pale Pass?"

Yes.

"Well then, history lesson notwithstanding, I hope you can recover the Draconian Madstone."

No, and I don't care.

"Look, there's no need to be rude. I just thought it might have been interesting to you."

No.

"Back at the end of the First Era, raiders from the continent of Akavir attempted to gain a foothold here in Tamriel. At that time, the Empire was broken into smaller factions. Reman Cyrodiil decided to unify them and form an army to repel the Akaviri raiders. The force became known as the Army of Reman. The two armies clashed in what's now northern Cyrodiil. The Akaviri were strong and well supplied. But their greatest error was marching through Morrowind on the way to their objective and dismissing the response it would garner from Vivec. They didn't count on Lord Vivec forming an alliance with the Trident-Kings of the Dreugh. From Morrowind, he struck at their rear flank. Not only did this make the Akaviri fight on two fronts, it also cut off access to reinforcements and supplies from the sea."

So the alliance ended the conflict?

"Not quite. The Army of Reman knew that the organized Akaviri forces were commanded from a hidden post in the mountains. Rumors placed it in a snowy vale called Pale Pass. That's where Reman focused his attention. As his forces fought their way across the Jerall Mountains, the Akaviri suddenly surrendered. It was assumed they were overwhelmed and gave up. The only strange part was that the command post and Pale Pass were never found. It was dismissed as rumor and the Army of Reman celebrated. It's come to my attention that the post did exist and it happens to be the last reported location of the Draconian Madstone."

Wait, who was Reman Cyrodiil?

"You must be joking, right? Who hasn't heard of the greatest known hero of the First Age? Reman Cyrodiil not only was the conqueror of the Akaviri forces, but he actually convinced them to help build the Empire as it is today. With such an Empire at his disposal, he conquered most of Tamriel, except Morrowind of course, and was crowned Emperor. In fact, he instituted the rites of becoming an Emperor, which included the construction of the Amulet of Kings. His alliance with Lord Vivec during the Akaviri invasion is just one example of his cunning and ingenuity."

History lessons are boring.

"I beg to differ, history can be quite enriching. Hmph. I figured you to have more brains than brawn, but so be it."

All options will eventually lead to:

Draconian Madstone

"If you retreive [sic] the Draconian Madstone for me, I'll be happy to compensate you by rewarding you with another Akaviri artifact. Are you game?"

Perhaps later.

"I'm not used to hearing no, but I admire your boldness. I won't force you to go, only to request that you reconsider in the future. I'm sure the lure of my reward will have you back sooner than you think."

"I'm disappointed. But you'll be back."

Should you return later, she greets you with:

"Reconsider?"

"Back to take me up on that offer, eh? I knew you couldn't resist."

Yes.

"I had a feeling you'd accept. Good. Then let me tell you how you're going to find the Madstone. I've come into the possession of a diary written by an Akaviri messenger. I suspect that the text within can lead you to the ruins. Here's a translation of the passages we could still read. It was quite damaged. I've also included a rough map that was drawn in the diary as well. I'm also providing you with a unique key that was supposedly found with the diary. I'm assuming it will prove useful when you arrive at the site."

Diary

"I paid several scouts to try and find the ruins at Pale Pass before I hired you. They were only able to locate the first of a series of landmarks. These landmarks are mentioned within the diary. The one referred to as Dragonclaw Rock has been located. I'll mark it on your map. The rest is up to you. My scouts reported bitter cold and dangerous creatures in the area, so they couldn't proceed. Be cautious, and return home soon. Good luck."

Draconian Madstone

"The Madstone awaits, and so does your reward if you retrieve it."

She parts with you by saying:

"May the path ahead be free of danger."

When greeted again, she will be delighted:

"I knew I could count on you."

"I'm pleased you decided to find the Madstone. It will be the highlight of my collection."

Diary

"The messenger's diary will make a nice companion to the Madstone in my collection."

Returning without the Madstone after you've discovered Dragonclaw Rock will disappoint her:

"I hope you bring good news."

"Have you recovered the Madstone?"

"Then best be on your way. You won't find it by standing around in here."

"Return when you have the Madstone."

When you return with the Madstone and telling her you've recovered it, she will be astounded:

"Have you recovered the Madstone?"

Yes, I have.

"I never thought it possible. I mean... I had hoped... but to actually hold it in my hands. It's more beautiful than I imagined it. Congratulations. I had a feeling you were the right person for the job. And it seems I owe you a reward. This Akaviri ring was found with the messenger's diary. It awards the wearer with increased agility and resistance to harmful magic. It's known as the Ring of the Vipereye. I hope it serves you well in your future journeys."

Madstone

"The Madstone is finally mine. It's the pinnacle of my collection. Many thanks to you again."

Pale Pass

"With the information you have given me about Pale Pass, it could take scholars many years to amend the history books."

From now she will greet you with: "It's wonderful to see you again." and "Good to see you again." She will part ways with: "May luck be always on your side."

Bruma Gate

The Countess could also give some dialogue on the topic of Bruma during this quest, before the gate is closed. There are likely lines missing before this line:

"But you must hurry! I'm afraid of what might happen if the daedra are able to get a foothold here."

Defense of Bruma

"Greetings. What news from Cloud Ruler Temple?"

Battle plans

"A desperate plan indeed. This ... Prince? Emperor? Martin would risk my whole city to gain a Great Sigil Stone?"

We must recover the Amulet.

"This is the only way to stop this invasion from Oblivion? I must confess, you are the first person to speak of victory against these daedra. This war has seemed hopeless to me, but what else was there to do but hold on and wait for a hero to arise to save us? And now it seems there is an heir to the throne after all, hidden at Cloud Ruler Temple... and perhaps a hero as well?"

Martin waits at the Chapel.

"You avoid answering my question ... Very well. Don't think I doubt you. The rulers of Bruma have long had dealings with Cloud Ruler Temple. We know whom they serve. I will meet Martin at the Chapel. When all is ready, I will order my men to stop closing the Gates and prepare for battle."

Chancellor Ocato

"He served Emperor Uriel for many years, and so far he has done well in an impossible situation."

If spoken to again before she reaches the Chapel:

"Come with me to the Chapel of Talos. I wish to speak with your lord."

She will then speak to Martin:

Countess Narina Carvain: "Your Highness? I am Narina Carvain, Countess of Bruma, at your service."

Martin Septim: "There is no need for any formality at this time. I am not Emperor yet. And I am quite new to this notion of being heir to the throne. Thank you for coming. I know I am asking for a great deal of trust. But this is the only way. I would not suggest it otherwise."

Countess Narina Carvain: "Your champion has already explained the situation to me. I have agreed to it. We will not win this war through caution."

Martin Septim: "You have a rare gift, to know when desperation is the path of wisdom. I will do everything in my power to defend your city, my Lady."

Countess Narina Carvain: "If Bruma falls, the Empire falls with us. So be it."

After this, she will wait for you to get ready for the battle. Upon greeting you she will ask you if you're ready, in which the manner will differ according to the number of allies you've gained during Allies for Bruma:

Answer	Condition
"I will call out my militia if necessary, but must we truly stand alone? I don't think we can survive the daedric onslaught."	No allies
"Some help is better than nothing, but my militia are farmers and shopkeepers, not soldiers. I would recommend delaying until more help can arrive."	One ally
"I appreciate the help that you have brought to Bruma. I begin to think we have a chance. But my militia is no substitute for trained soldiers. Can we not wait for more help to arrive?"	Fewer than four allies
"You are a diplomat as well as a warrior, it seems! I would prefer more men, of course, but if we must offer battle now, so be it."	Fewer than seven allies
"I am ready for battle when you are, champion. What say you?"	Seven allies

After this you will have a number of choices:

I'm not ready yet.

"As you wish. I will wait here while you prepare yourself for battle."

I will get more allies.

"Thank you. I know that delay is dangerous, but it is all for naught if we lose the battle before you can recover the Great Sigil Stone."

Let the battle begin.

"So be it. Bruma's fate is in the hands of the gods now ... and yours."

Once ready, she will exclaim:

"Burd! Deploy the troops for battle!"

If spoken to again:

"Your place is on the battlefield. I have trusted you this far. Do not fail me."

Unused Dialogue

A certain line is impossible to hear during normal gameplay, since it requires you to have picked up the Draconian Madstone, but then also not being in your inventory. Since it is a quest item, it's impossible to drop it. You then have to tell the Countess that you have it with Yes, I have., even though you do not:

"It doesn't become you to tell lies. If you've recovered the Madstone, please bring it back to me and you'll be rewarded."

Rumors

The nobility admire her:

"I believe the rugged climate of Bruma suits Narina Carvain. She's tough and cold, but you always know what to expect from her."

"Millona Umbranox, Arriana Valga, and Narina Carvain seem to rule their counties perfectly well without male assistance."

"Bruma is not a fit place to live, but no one can fault Countess Bruma on the quality of her guard or defenses."

Though they also seem to think she's moody:

"No wonder Narina Carvain is so cranky. If you had to live year-round in a cold, drafty, soot-stained castle like Bruma, you'd be cranky, too."

And certain citizens have also got wind of the interest of the Countess in Akaviri artifcats:

"I overheard a guard mention the Countess is looking for a piece to add to her collection of Akaviri artifacts. Our taxpayer's drakes at work..."

A loading screen will also describe her positively:

"Countess Narina Carvain is a dutiful chapelgoer, and a respected ruler, though she is a cunning and ruthless negotiator."

Notes

• For historical information on the Carvain family, see the lore article.