Online:Azandar al-Cybiades

Azandar al-Cybiades; Furnishing
Type	Houseguest
Acquired From	Complete Tempting Fates

Azandar al-Cybiades; (lore page)
Reaction	Friendly
Other Information
Follower	During The Fateweaver Key
Faction(s)	Star-Gazers (formerly)

Azandar al-Cybiades

Azandar al-Cybiades (né al-Kozanset, initially met as just Azandar) is a Redguard Arcanist and Companion who can be recruited. He can initially be encountered along the northern, eastern, and southern roads that lead into the village of Cipher's Midden in Apocrypha.

Related Quests[edit]

The Fateweaver Key: Assist a talkative arcanist with an experiment gone awry.
Paths Unwalked: Continue helping Azandar with cleaning up his frayed fates.
Adversarial Adventures: Gather more information on the adversary's plan.
Tempting Fates: Help Azandar al-Cybiades in confronting his adversary.
Chronicle of Fate: Learn what was forgotten.

Companion Data[edit]

Azandar Al-Cybiades
Racial Skill	Son of Kozanset: Increases Max Health by 3% and decreases ability cooldowns by 3%.
Companion Perk	Azandar's Inquisitiveness: When searching containers, bestows a chance to discover research portfolios. Portfolios can contain crafting recipes, treasure maps, research notes, survey reports, and other documents of value.
Default Gear	Light Armor, Restoration Staff, base quality	Default Style	Sapiarch Chests, Trinimac Legs, Psijic Shoulders, Nighthollow Gloves & Feet, Nibenese Court Wizard Belt, Scribes of Mora Weapons	Default Mount	Brown Paint Horse
Rapport Status
Cordial	Azandar believes your collaboration could be beneficial.	Allied	Azandar would travel to Oblivion and beyond with you.	Wary	Azandar is trying not to hate you.
Friendly	Azandar thinks you're a top notch researcher.	Companion	Azandar is planning long-term research plans with you. Prepare yourself.	Irritated	Azandar regrets your collaboration.
Close	Azandar likens your collaboration to the best of his career.	Likes and Dislikes		Disdainful	Azandar is plotting to abandon you in Apocrypha.
Keepsake
	Well-used clay vessels comprising a tea set. The kettle and a set of cups is etched with tentacles and eldritch runes. The whistle of the pot sounds like darkly whispered secrets. Permanently grants the passive "Azandar's Inquisitiveness" to the bearer.
Abyssal Tea Set

Class Skill Lines[edit]

Ultimate[edit]

Name	Line Rank	Cast Time	Target	Range	Radius	Duration	Cost
Vigorous Tentacular Eruption	20	2 seconds	Enemy	28 meters	8 meters	–	200 Ultimate
Vigorous Tentacular Eruption	Azandar creates a gate to Apocrypha beneath an enemy. After 2 seconds, a swarm of hideous tentacles burst through the gate, dealing 4725 Magic Damage to enemies within the gate, knocking them up in the air and stunning them for 3 seconds. Enemies damaged by the tentacles receive Major Vulnerability for 4 seconds, increasing their damage taken by 10%.

Quill Knight[edit]

Name	Line Rank	Cast Time	Target	Range	Radius	Duration	Cooldown
Scathing Rune	1	0.5 seconds	Enemy	10 meters	–	–	11.6 seconds
Scathing Rune	Azandar uses a runic technique to taunt their enemy to attack them, applying Minor Maim to them for 15 seconds, reducing their damage done by 5%. Used when the enemy is not already taunted.

Abor's Augmented Ward	5	0.8 seconds	Self	–	–	6 seconds	15.5 seconds
Abor's Augmented Ward	Azandar draws on advanced research to gain a damage shield that absorbs 1575 damage for 6 seconds. The first time they take direct damage after casting, the shield retaliates and deals 3150 Magic Damage to the attacker.

Fear of the Unknown	14	0.4 seconds	Enemy	15 meters	–	–	7.8 seconds
Fear of the Unknown	Azandar confronts an enemy with the unknowable truth of reality, applying Fear to them for 4 seconds.

Revitalizing Researcher[edit]

Name	Line Rank	Cast Time	Target	Range	Radius	Duration	Cooldown
Triptych Physic	1	0.6 seconds	Area	–	28 meters	–	7.8 seconds
Triptych Physic	Azandar launches a trio of restorative runes at themselves or an ally, healing for 1050 Health three times. Used when Azandar or an ally is below 75% Health.

Shields of Erudition	8	0.5 seconds	Area	–	28 meters	–	11.6 seconds
Shields of Erudition	Azandar manifests spinning discs of pure knowledge to surround themselves and up to 2 allies, granting a damage shield that absorbs 3150 damage for 6 seconds.

Zone of Recuperation	17	0.5 seconds	Area	–	8 meters	8 seconds	15.5 seconds
Zone of Recuperation	Azandar outlines a domain of eldritch power, healing them and their allies standing within for 525 Health over 8 seconds and granting 150 Health, Magicka, and Stamina Recovery.

Scholar of Apocrypha[edit]

Name	Line Rank	Cast Time	Target	Range	Radius	Duration	Cooldown
The Triune Word	1	0.4 seconds	Enemy	22 meters	–	–	7.8 seconds
The Triune Word	Azandar crafts a trio of runes before launching them at an enemy, dealing 1050 Magic Damage three times.

Tendrils of the Colorless Sea	2	0.4 seconds	Enemy	15 meters	–	–	11.6 seconds
Tendrils of the Colorless Sea	Azandar infuses their arm with abyssal arcanum and thrusts forward, dealing 1575 Physical Damage to enemies and applying Minor Vulnerability to them for 6 seconds, increasing the damage they take by 5%.

Fate Omen's Inspiration	11	0.3 seconds	Area	–	28 meters	8 seconds	15.5 seconds
Fate Omen's Inspiration	Azandar charges their weapons and their allies' weapons with apocryphal energy for 8 seconds, applying Minor Berserk, increasing their damage done by 5%.

Likes and Dislikes[edit]

Ways for Azandar to lose or gain rapport
Amount	Action	Cooldown
Actions that lead to gaining Rapport
+500	Complete Paths Unwalked, Adversarial Adventures, and Tempting Fates companion quests	Once Each
+125	Return Ordinator Tilena, Necrom delve daily	Daily
+125	Return Enchanter Writ daily	Daily
+15	Returning Master Enchanter writ	15 minutes^(?)
+15	Collect a Psijic portal	15 minutes^(?)
+10	Visit the Brass Fortress, The Hollow City, Fargrave City District (cooldown shared across all) ^(?)	Daily
+10	Visit any Mundus Stone	Daily^(?)
+5	Complete an Oblivion Portal^{[verification needed — Appears to give +3 heart rapport, not +2]}	No cooldown^(?)
+5	Interact with any Ayleid Well. Aetherial Wells on Auridon do not count.	1 hour^(?)
+5	Read a new mages guild book	1 hour^(?)
+5	Upgrade an item	^(?)
+5	Acquire a lead	^(?)
+5	Scrying	15 minutes^(?)
+5	Consume any tea type beverage	1 hour^(?)
+5 / +1	Steal treasure type of Magic Curiosities, Maps, Writings, Ritual Objects	^(?)
+5^(?) / +1	Brew any tea type beverage	1 hour^(?)
+5 / +1	Read a lorebook	^(?)
+1	Kill a chaurus	15 minutes^(?)
+1	Kill a duneripper	15 minutes^(?)
+1	Kill a dreugh	15 minutes^(?)
+1	Kill a harpy	15 minutes^(?)
+1	Kill a mudcrab	15 minutes^(?)
+1	Kill a nix-ox	15 minutes^(?)
+1	Kill an ogre	15 minutes^(?)
+1	Kill a troll	15 minutes^(?)
Actions that result in losing Rapport
-10	Visit Artaeum or Eyevea (He's okay with The Scholarium)	15 minutes
-10	Give to a beggar	^(?)
-10	Light a Campfire (Lightbringer)	^(?)
-1	Pick a mushroom	15 minutes^(?)
-1	Brew/Consume^(?) a beverage with Coffee	^(?)
-1	Play a game of Tales of Tribute	^(?)

Azandar's Inquisitiveness[edit]

While Azandar is with you, you can find a Research Portfolio while searching containers. They can contain furnishings plans and various treasures, which include unique fragments of Azandar's writings and research notes which are as follows:

Item	Text
Research Notes
Azandar Research Note # 1	Must establish observational control once Key functional. Cannot be stuck observing fateline for Azandar the camel herder.
Azandar Research Note # 2	References to other fateline methodologies proven frustrating. Fate shaping is impossible, nothing but dead ends.
Azandar Research Note # 3	Ensure mystic binding only applies to my fateline; safety in specificity when it comes to high arcanum.
Azandar Research Note # 4	Research indicates potential for use of fatelines as power source. Immoral, repugnant, unseemly. But interesting.
Azandar Research Note # 5	Send message to Martina after first successful test, Key may fuel social interaction with lessened awkwardness.
Azandar Research Note # 6	Dwemer tonal concepts as core influence suggests further Deep Elf techniques may be of utility to explore.
Azandar Research Note # 7	Send a formal gloating treatise to Shad Astula after experiment success, or request a lecture series?
Azandar Research Note # 8	Full incorporation of tonal architecture into Fateweaver structure proving challenging. More exploration and research required.
Azandar Research Note # 9	Months wasted exploring familial connection to fatelines; will be years before I can stomach my brother's cooking again.
Azandar Research Note # 10	Worth attempting entry to Clockwork City, extra-Nirn structures could prove excellent touchpoint for Fateweaver structure.
Arcanist Notes
Azandar Arcanist Note # 1	I find the Abyssal Sea meditative. Once you adjust to organelles thrumming across the length of your body, it's quite peaceful.
Azandar Arcanist Note # 2	I simply don't understand the average mortal's aversion to tentacles. They seem incredibly useful, if nothing else!
Azandar Arcanist Note # 3	I have, by my count, perfected thirty eight different runeforms and counting. Onward and upward!
Azandar Arcanist Note # 4	My tome is playing a game of hide and seek. Vexing. Will have to check Wayrest Cathedral again, seems to be a favorite spot.
Azandar Arcanist Note # 5	I was awakened last night by Hermaeus Mora intoning pleas and threats from my tome. I threw it across the room and rolled over.
Azandar Arcanist Note # 6	The Baron of the Breakers was in my dreams again last night, offering power. I asked for tea. He was not amused.
Azandar Arcanist Note # 7	I summoned the Fate Crone, and we spoke at length. The ancient hag is a pleasant conversationalist, but not very forthcoming.
Azandar Arcanist Note # 8	Encountered Daedric entity Blind Man in antihelix of the Wind. Marked corridor to avoid, knowledge not worth the danger.
Azandar Arcanist Note # 9	My background studies into the rune knights of old resulted in little more than curious, open ended ephemera.
Azandar Arcanist Note # 10	Finally accepted the whispers and spent an evening meditating before the Colorless Pool. Burned notes after.
Scribbled Notes
Azandar Scribbled Notes #1	New leaf blend still needs something. Rolled oats may prove a textural and flavor compliment.
Azandar Scribbled Notes #2	Months since I last yanked Telenger's chain. Something with that Dwemer monstrosity in the Skywatch plaza? Worth exploring.
Azandar Scribbled Notes #3	(each has a scribbled line through it) Coldharbour, Apocrypha, Evergloam, Colored Rooms, Deadlands, Spiral Skein
Azandar Scribbled Notes #4	Need social interactions outside of research partners. Make Interaction Plan to encourage social connections.
Azandar Scribbled Notes #5	Atronach name options: Piffle, Bartolo, Fribbish, Gubbins, Nukks, Pompom, Springle

Based on 1,000 Research Portfolios, this is the approximate loot per portfolio:

Item	# found per bag
Common Contraband	0.434
Fine Contraband	0.347
Superior Contraband	0.016
Epic Contraband	0.001
Fine Furnishing Plan^a	0.148
Superior Furnishing Plan^a	0.053
Epic Furnishing Plan^a	0.007
Fine Provisioning Recipe	0.047
Superior Provisioning Recipe	0.006
Epic Provisioning Recipe	0.002
Azandar Research Note	0.183
Azandar Arcanist Note	0.208
Azandar Scribbled Notes	0.114
Lockpick	0.045
Counterfeit Pardon Edict	0.161
Leniency Edict	0.047
Treasure Map	0.151
Crafting Survey	0.053

a: furnishing plans from the research portfolios tend to be of styles that can't be found in Rolis Hlaalu's Furnisher Documents, such as (but not limited to): Fine furnishing plans from DLCs, non-Markarth Dwemer Furnishings, Vampiric Furnishings, and Necrom Furnishings (which may be removed from the pool once Necrom furnishing documents are added to Rolis's stock)

Quest-Related Events[edit]

The Fateweaver Key[edit]

Azandar al-Cybiades can first be encountered on any of the roads leading to Cipher's Midden in Apocrypha, under the name Azandar:

Azandar: "Another one! Confounded thing!"

Azandar: "You have an intelligent look about you. A moment of your time?"

Speak with him to see what is going on:

"Greetings! You have a sharp look to you, traveler. My name is Azandar, I'm an arcanist, and I'm hoping we can help each other out.
I've decades of esoteric knowledge, a bit of coin, and a convivial attitude! What do you say?"

That depends. What do you need help with?

"I'd like your help tracking down a former associate of mine. I was attempting to create a relic of great power and now find my fate … frayed, for lack of a better term.
I call this relic the Fateweaver Key."

How can your former associate help?

"Martina was a brilliant collaborator, and may be able to identify where I went wrong. To find her we'll need to find a tome, summon a Daedra, and brave the terrors of Apocrypha!
What do you say? Join me in an exploration into the unknown?"

All right, Azandar. I'll help you find your associate and fix your key.

After you agree to help, he will explain that he needs a certain book first. You can also take the opportunity to ask some questions:

"I'm looking forward to our collaboration! As I said, we'll need a book on Daedra summoning to get us on the right track. Let's convene in the center of Cipher's Midden.
Is there anything I can clarify for you before we begin?"

Sure. Can you tell me more about what you're trying to do?

"That mystic phenomenon I was struggling with? I'm calling them frayed fates. They're echoes from a choice I once made.
My work to create the Fateweaver Key has snarled them up. So untidy. If I'm ever to perfect the key, I'll need to unfray my fate."

So we're going to unfray your fate. How are we going to do that?

"A good question! I need to … reset. Return to the roots of my research to unravel this issue.
That's why I'm hoping to find my old colleague. Their name was Martina Abor, a talented researcher … though we've since parted ways."

You want to find Martina, but we're starting by looking for a book?

"My hope is that a Daedric consultant, a Watcher named Tem, will know where they are. The book will lead us to Tem, you see.
Thankfully the Ciphers of the Eye have given me access to their stacks! Hah!"

What is it you do, Azandar?

"An excellent question. I'm a scholar of esoterica, eldritch secrets, and things mortals were not meant to know.
I'm an arcanist of the highest order, proud to say. Wresting the power of Apocrypha into my quill-gnarled hands. As you do."

If you aren't an Arcanist:	If you are an Arcanist:
Can you tell me a bit about being an arcanist? "Arcanist is a broad brush, to be sure. But we're all devotees to abstruse arcanum, individual proclivities aside. From mad hermits raving about tentacles to precision runecrafters. I consider myself a scholar, first and foremost."	I'm an arcanist as well. "Ahh! A fellow seeker of knowledge! Do you hold more to the tentacular school of thought, or are you more of a rune-carver? You're not one of those tiresome paddlers in the fathomless seas, are you? Apologies, we can compare notes later.

What were you trying to do with this Fateweaver Key?

"It's not my fault! I mean … ahem. I was attempting to peer beyond the veil of our reality, much as Hermaeus Mora does. To gaze upon other fatelines.
It would have been brilliant. Should have spent more time developing my infralux notation."

What did you hope to learn?

"Just think, what could you learn by looking beyond your own life? At the paths unwalked? What kernels of truth could you hull with such a tool?
I hoped to gain knowledge about myself, about the universe, why … about the very nature of mortality."

What makes one of these frayed fates? Did you make one when you decided what to have for breakfast?

"Hmm. A simplistic example. Not all choices are equal. But if the choice to have oatmeal instead of eggs changed the course of your life ….
Think of them like divergence points. And everything you could learn seeing the might-have-beens play out."

All right. Let's get to it. (Ends Conversation)

Once you have finished speaking with him, Azandar will run off in the direction of Cipher's Midden:

Azandar: "The stacks aren't far at all. I'll see you there!"

When you arrive in Cipher's Midden, he will be standing in the street, looking at a stack of books:

Azandar: "The search for knowledge begins! Hah!"

Talk with Azandar to see what he wants to do:

"I've no idea where in Aurbis to look for my old colleague, Martina. But! I know she was working with a Daedric consultant, a creature named Tem.
If we can summon Tem, we can find Martina."

And we're here to find a book to summon this Tem.

"Indubitably! I knew I was right about you. Now, an esteemed elder within the Ciphers once summoned forth this Daedra.
If we can find the notes from this elder, you and I can summon Tem and engage in parley."

How do we find one book in all of this?

"You've never been to the Library of Dusk, I take it. Or the forbidden section of Gwilym University.
Dedicated scholars must develop their own search magics. I'll begin the incantation, just be ready for anything. Apocrypha is full of surprises!"

Got it.

Azandar will then recite the incantation:

Azandar: "Incantus Eruditum. Abyssal sea hear my call. Find the secrets beneath this scrawl."

Azandar: "The runeform is complete. Follow where it leads."

Speaking with him before following:

"Stay close. Mortal magic of any kind is dangerous in Apocrypha. Especially when cast in search of knowledge."

The orb will hover a stack of books nearby:

Azandar: "Aha! The book we need is in that pile."

However, when you reach for the book, something else grabs it first.

Azandar: "There, a tomeshell has the text! Get after it, the chase is on!"

Speaking to him before pursuing:

"That book acts as host for a tomeshell, a creature indigenous to the realm. Get after it!"

The tomeshell can be caught up to, and you can grab the book, Predestination and Paradox: A Treatise.

Azandar: "Excellent work!"

Talk with Azandar to hand over the book:

"Hah! That was bracing! Pity the tome will smell like transliminal parasite now. Let's see what it says."

Here you go, one book.

"Here's the ritual to summon Tem. Easy enough, just a question of the appropriate summoning materials.
We'll need expunged tomedust, the talon of a Seeker, and black ichor from the spumy pools of Apocrypha."

Where can we find the ritual materials?

"Let me mark your map. Seekers tend the flora of the region. Their talons often break off in the resin.
And there should be plenty of tomedust scraped from parchment in the Cipher's Midden expungatory. Try to get some from a Daedric incantation."

What about the ichor?

"I'll procure that, worry not. Don't want you to think I'm taking advantage of your assistance.
Once you have the dust and talon, we'll meet back up at the ritual site I've marked on your map. What do you say?"

Get the talon and tomedust and meet you at the site. Got it. See you there.

Azandar will then speculate on where he should obtain the ichor:

Azandar: "Which of the spumy pools should I collect this ichorous substance from? And how can I do it without getting covered in bile? Onward!"

You can speak with Azandar again before leaving:

"The tomedust should be found in the Cipher's Midden expungatory, while Seekers tend to congregate around those resin plants to the southwest.
Easy enough, and soon we'll be talking to Tem!"

You seem familiar with Apocrypha.

"Well I should hope so! I've been coming here for years. Fascinating place!
You can learn the ways of the arcanist back home, of course, but to truly understand the forces of fate, tides, and the abyssal sea … there's nowhere else like it."

Where is home, back on Tamriel?

"Oh here and there, you know. You've seen one post-feudal city-state you've seen them all. Am I right?
My family hails from Hammerfell. Born and raised in Tall Papa's shadow."

Do you visit them much?

"I'm no youngster, obviously. My parents now dwell within Aetherius and the rest of the family politely pretends I don't exist. Best for all involved.
Now then! We have a Daedra to summon, knowledge to gain!"

Right. Better get to it.

After you have collected the Expunged Tomedust and Seeker Talon, you can meet with Azandar at the summoning site. You will find him shooing off a Frayed Fate:

Azandar: "Begone! My fateline is my own."

Frayed Fate: "Your life…is mine!"

Azandar: "Did you hear …? Never mind. Welcome! This should be most illuminating!"

Speak with him to continue:

"Ah, my new collaborator. Good to see you again. By Mora's Eyes these frayed fates are becoming increasingly annoying. I look forward to putting them to bed, as it were.
Do you have the items we need to summon our Daedric consultant?"

I've got the tomedust and talon right here.

"Peerless work! Let's see … here's the ichor. Unpleasant to gather, but I've done worse in my day.
Now then. I'll light the fonts and begin the incantation. As we go, I'll need you to offer up the tomedust, talon, and ichor. In that order."

Then you'll ask the Daedra about your partner?

"Just so. With any luck this Tem can tell us where the whims of fate have led Martina.
If this doesn't work … well. I'm sure I'll think of something. But let's hope it works eh? Onward!"

Ready when you are.

Runes will surround Azandar as he summons Tem:

Azandar: "We light the flames to summon Tem, the Omen of Destiny. Come before us!"

Tem: "Tem is summoned. Ask your questions. Make your offerings."

Azandar: "We offer the dust of an ancient spell. I seek the location of my former colleague, Martina Abor."

Tem: "Tem's eyes have seen you, Azandar al-Cybiades. You search for one who does not wish to be found."

Azandar: "Recalcitrant, are we? We offer the talon of a Seeker. I need Martina to correct an error. Where are they?"

Tem: "You tamper with fate, mortal. Tem sees a darkness approaching. One you have unmoored."

Azandar: "Daedra, I have called, and you must answer. With ichor as payment, I command you. Where can I find Martina Abor?"

Tem: "I shall answer. But not to you, arcanist. Tem will speak with the one who made the offerings."

Azandar: "The audacity of that creature!"

You can then speak with Tem, the Omen of Destiny. He will explain where Martina is and ominously hint at what Azandar has inadvertently created. Afterwards, Tem will take his leave:

Tem: "Questions asked and answered. Farewell, mortals."

Azandar: "All things being equal, that went rather well. It seems we're off to the Underweave. Exciting."

You have the option of speak with Azandar about what you learnt before leaving:

"The Underweave is a powerful nexus of fated potential in Chroma Incognito. Terribly powerful, terribly dangerous.
Sounds just like Martina to set up a lab there. Onward and upward!"

You're not worried about Tem's warning?

"Hmm … am I? No, not particularly. Daedra are strange beasts, you know. Their concept of mortality, time, and danger are very different from our own.
Clearly there have been some unintended consequences, but nothing the two of us can't handle!"

Why are you and Martina no longer working together?

"We were excellent collaborators. Together we gathered power from across the Daedric realms! But in the end she had very different goals than I do.
If nothing else, damn it. I want to have some fun! Hah!"

Do you think Martina will be willing to help you?

"Yes. Of that I have no doubt. Martina is a consummate professional.
Just don't get her started on the transliminal properties of exogenic materials or the writings of Denogorath the Dread Archivist. We'll be there all day."

Why did Martina study the Underweave and you didn't?

"You must understand. I have been studying arcane ephemera for decades now. The Underweave is just so … obvious. And I try very hard not to be boring.
Plus it's extremely dangerous in there. Fate shifts like the tides of the abyssal sea."

So you didn't want to study it because it's dangerous?

"A thing can be both dangerous and boring. The universe contains multitudes.
I truly believed I would be able to master fate itself without entering its walls. Vexing to have been proven wrong."

Why did Martina set up their sanctum in the Underweave?

"Given the focus of our research, it makes perfect sense. Fate itself pulses through the corridors of the Underweave.
And it's tradition for powerful arcanists to establish a sanctum. I have one myself, you know. Quite proud of it."

All right. Let's get to the Underweave. (Ends Conversation)

After you enter the Underweave, Azandar will meet up with you:

Azandar: "To the Heart of the Underweave!"

You can speak with him before you continue:

"Not to belabor the obvious, but we'll need to be careful here. We should make haste to the Heart of the Underweave and find Martina's sanctum.
Onward and upward!"

How do we find Martina's sanctum?

"The Fateweaver Key is palpitating, pulling me … off to the east? Fascinating. Something in Martina's sanctum must be synergizing with the relic.
Let's find that laboratory!"

Right. To the Heart of the Underweave.

Speaking with Azandar as you search the Underweave for Martina's location:

"Despite my reservations, this place is fascinating. The Aurbisal emanations alone could fill a dozen tomes."

"Fascinating. There is a certain … allure to the Underweave. An air of great mystery."

"To think Martina has been studying fate from within the Underweave all this time. I wonder what advances she's made since we parted ways?"

"My work to develop the Fateweaver Key was actually inspired by conversations I had with Martina. I'm curious what she will think of my advancements."

"The Unseen are a mystery. In a Daedric realm rife with mystery and secrets. Hmm."

"Martina was much more venturesome than I. She was always willing to push boundaries to learn something new."

Once you arrive in the Underweave heart, you will find the door to Martina's sanctum sealed shut with magic. Azandar will quickly bring them down:

Azandar: "This must be it. Knock knock Martina!"

Azandar: "All right, let's get my fates unfrayed!"

Before you go in further into the sanctum, you can speak to him:

"I'm not sure what I was expecting to find here, but it wasn't this. Martina was always so meticulous. This place is…chaotic."

Following him in, you will find him standing before an active magic circle which contains the body of a woman. You have found Martina Abor:

Azandar: "Damn it, Martina. Dead. I had hoped …."

Azandar: "Why must the most brilliant among us fall to curiosity's blade?"

Azandar: "Take a look around, if you don't mind. I need a moment."

Speaking with Azandar as you search:

"I can't believe Martina is dead. She was … well. Strange. But one of the best colleagues an old man could ever ask for.
Ahem. Let's … let's focus. We're here to do a job. Look for notes or a journal, would you?"

He will comment on what you find as you search the room:

Interacting with the Mysterious Experiment: Azandar: "No idea what that concoction is. Curious."

Reading the The Never-Woven: Azandar: "Martina was a zealous note-taker, that may be helpful to our inquiry."

Searching Martina's Body: Azandar: "Perhaps … you. Ah. Might find something on her remains?"

Talking with Azandar before searching the body:

"She must've realized her experiment was spiraling out of control and tried to contain any damage. As I said, a professional to the end."

After you have search the room, Azandar will call you over to talk:

Azandar: "Come, come. Let's talk."

Talk with Azandar to go over what you found:

"I wish I could say this was the first time I found an old friend dead. But I cannot.
From the spell lattice surrounding them, I believe Martina's research may have followed a similar path to my own. Let's take a look at that journal."

I'm sorry, Azandar. And you're right, the journal talks about Martina's fate fraying like yours.

"Hmm … Martina says here she could somehow scry for the fates frayed from her timeline? Fascinating.
She experimented with several different methods … ugh, including using her own blood? Messy. Dangerous. But perhaps effective."

Is there any way we could do that?

"Yes … Yes I believe so. I have some thoughts that need to… germinate. And I'd like to dispel this ward, take care of Martina. Ahem.
Let's retire to my rooms at Cipher's Midden, near the wayshrine. I'll see you there, my canny colleague."

All right, Azandar. I'll see you at Cipher's Midden.

You have the option of continuing to speak with Azandar before you leave:

"I'll see you back at Cipher's Midden, my perspicacious collaborator.
Just need to see to Martina, here."

What was Martina doing here, do you think?

"Research, of course. Always research. Just like in the old days. Martina and I were excellent collaborators.
I was the gab, the talker, the trader. Martina was the silent strength, astute observations after lengthy contemplation."

Why did you two stop working together?

"I'm an arse. It seems wrong to coat the truth in moon-sugar, standing over Martina's final work. I can be challenging to know, and worse to work with.
Martina put up with me for the better part of five years. Longer than anyone else."

What do you think got Martina killed?

"I'm not quite sure. I think, perhaps, she was trying to manipulate fate itself. But I'd have to examine Martina's notes to fully understand what happened here."

Why did they try to manipulate fate?

"Martina was as nimble-witted as anyone I've ever met. And stubborn as the abyssal sea. If she thought they could twist fate itself, nothing would slow them down.
Changing the fatelines is something not even Hermaeus Mora himself can do."

Right. Thanks, Azandar. (End Conversation)

He will bid you farewell as you leave:

Azandar: "I hope I can honor Martina's memory, somehow. I'll see you back at Cipher's Midden."

When you return to Cipher's Midden, Azandar will be waiting for you in his lodgings:

Azandar: "Welcome! I've just been preparing, pardon the simplicity of my setup here."

You can then speak with Azandar to see what he is planning:

"Martina's research lives on. I believe, with further development, I can adapt her methods and modify the Fateweaver Key itself.
But let's crawl before we walk. First, we confirm if scrying for frayed fates is even possible."

Why are we scrying for your frayed fates?

"It's time to put my failure behind me! So far, the fates have come to me.
With Martina's research we can scry for one, find it, and shut it down! What do you think of that?"

Sounds good. What's our first step?

"This is why you make a good collaborator. Your focus. I place in your hands the Fateweaver Key. Still flawed, unfortunately, but newly modified thanks to Martina's notes.
Follow along with me and we'll seek out a frayed fate!"

Let's get started.

Azandar will hand you his Fateweaver Key and guide you through the process:

Azandar: "Observe this thaumaturgical quadrant. Gripping the key, activate each of the beacons."

Once you activate the beacons, a portal will appear in the air momentarily and shows location that Azandar recognizes:

Azandar: "A shipwreck? Wait … that must be Fathoms Drift. Superlative!"

Azandar: "The Drift is in the far north of the region. I'll meet you there."

You have the option of talking with Azander before you leave:

"That was rough, unrefined. I can do better. But we've got our first success, and a location. Fathoms Drift!"

What are we going to do there?

"We shall stitch together the unraveled threads of my fate. Mistakes made in forging the Fateweaver Key will recede into the past.
Together, we will reap the rewards of knowledge, insight, and scholarship. Just as Martina would have wanted."

What's Fathoms Drift?

"It's a sinkhole in reality, a graveyard for ships from across the realms. Hermaeus Mora is the Tide King, after all.
In his role as master of the seas and One-Whose-Tentacles-Rise-From-the-Deep, he claims sunken vessels to add to his trove."

Why is your frayed fate there?

"Truly? I have no Aurbisal idea why a path unwalked would lead me there.
But Martina was shrewd, clever, and other complimentary words. We can trust their work."

All right. Let's see this done.

After speaking to him, if you speak to him again:

"I'm curious what we might find at Fathoms Drift. I'll meet you there, in the far northern part of the region.
At this point we're well beyond the bounds of my original experiment. The next step is rigorous field research. Hah!"

When you arrive outside Fathoms Drift, Azandar will have arrived and will be dispelling a Frayed Fate. Once he sees you, Azandar calls you over:

Frayed Fate: "I live. It is my will."

Azandar: "Away, you pestering phantom!"

Azandar: "You're here! It's so pleasant to work with someone so prompt. And cunning!"

Speak to Azandar to see what he wants to do:

"Blast these frayed fates! Let's get in there and turn theory into practice, eh?
Smooth these things back into the universe."

How do we smooth your fates back into the universe?

"First, we enter the drift and find the darned thing. The Fateweaver Key, in your able hands, will lead us where we need to go.
Now properly attuned, it should allow you to tug on the threads that bind my fate to me."

So we follow these threads. What then?

"We use the Fateweaver Key itself to bind this frayed fate back into the fabric of the universe. I'm not … well to be totally honest I'm not exactly sure what that will look like.
But we're armed with a dead friend's knowledge. We'll see it done."

All right. Let's see it done.

Azandar will then cheer and run into Fathoms Drift:

Azandar: "Into the drift! Huzzah!"

Once inside, Azandar will give further instructions:

Azandar: "The Fateweaver Key will be our guide. It should make visible the threads that bind me to the nearby frayed fate."

Speaking with Azandar here, he will make a suggestion:

Azandar: "Look for a distortion in the air, stray flux."

The Fate Threads will appear as green orbs of light which are surround with runes. Azandar will comment as you find and follow the threads through Fathoms Drift:

Azandar: "There, a thread. Untie it, and we'll follow the thread to the next, and the next. Hah!"'

Azandar: "Martina's work … my research. It's working! Smashing!"

Azandar: "Onward and upward! As always! Hah!"

Azandar: "That thread was woven past that door!"

Going through the door, you will find yourself on the deck of a wrecked ship:

Azandar: "Up the ramp! I think I see something."

Azandar: "This distortion is a frayed fate. Let's pull this situation into focus."

Azandar (Sailor): "Swab the deck, Azandar. Stop lollygagging, Azandar … I'm tired of all this."

Azandar: "What? A sailor? How odd, I haven't wanted to be a sailor since I was a child."

Azandar (Sailor): "Bilge rats and stale bread. I'll never make it to first mate."

Frayed Fate: "Ahhh. Such potential. Stronger now."

Azandar: "Twitching tentacles, what is that?"

Frayed Fate: "I grow … stronger."

Azandar: "Quickly! Use the key! These runeforms should banish that thing."

Frayed Fate: "We will not be undone!"

Once you have used the key and banished the Frayed Fate, Azandar will be exhausted.

Azandar: "It worked. I wasn't sure it would!"

Speaking with Azandar after what you both just witnessed:

"What we just witnessed … hmm. Distressing. Horrid. Disconcerting. Apologies, cohort, I'm free-associating to deal with my emotions."

Are you all right?

"Of course! Just processing. Tem, it seems, was telling the truth. A frayed fate has grown in strength somehow. Become … adversarial."

What do we do now?

"Allow me to take back the Fateweaver Key. Hmm. I'll need to consider this new information.
The introduction of this … adversary into the experiment was unforeseen. Let's reconvene in my room at Cipher's Midden."

Sounds good. I'll see you there.

Talking to Azandar again while in Fathoms Drift:

"Much to think on, much to do. Some kind of fate binding. Go on the offense? Or are runic bulwarks the better choice?
Best to review Martina's research … and of course there's still the Key to consider. Blast!"

Azandar will be waiting for you in his chambers at Cipher's Midden:

Azandar: "Ah, there you are! Come, let's talk. I'm ecstatic! Ebullient, even."

Talk to Azandar to complete the quest:

"Incredible. Somehow my experiment seems to have created a new, previously unseen mystic phenomenon. One frayed fate consumed the other, by means and for reasons unknown.
I'd be even happier if it didn't want me dead. Hah!"

You're excited that you've created a thing that wants you dead?

"Yes! I mean, would I prefer this adversary enjoy a strenuous argument over a pot of tea? Without a doubt.
But you have to understand, I believed the Fateweaver experiment was an abject failure."

So the fact that the experiment created anything is exciting to you.

"Indubitably! And mark me well, this discovery would not have been possible without your insights and abettance. We make a superlative research duo, you and I.
I haven't had a competent cohort in some time."

Thanks, Azandar. So you're going to continue to look into this adversary?

"I must! My fate is still frayed, after all. It must be restored, and this dark being dealt with.
But now, a question for you! Would you be willing, if you have the time and inclination, to continue our collaboration?"

Sure. Let's keep working together on your project.

"Together, my new cohort, we began the work of understanding the nature of fate. We put an old friend to rest.
Someday soon we'll repair the Key. But for now, accept my promised coin with enthusiastic thanks. Onward and upward!"

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

"You know, it just now occurred to me that Hermaeus Mora himself might not appreciate what the Fateweaver Key has wrought.
Regardless, what do you say? Would you be willing to continue our collaboration?"

Sure. Let's keep working together on your project. (Leads to quest completion dialogue)

After you have completed the quest and had Azandar become your companion:

Azandar: "Together, cohort, we will accomplish stupendous things. Remarkable things! For research!"

Paths Unwalked[edit]

When you reach 1000 Rapport with Azandar, he will ask for your further assistance:

"Cohort, I have exceptional news. My preparations are completed and the time is now!
Time to return to our fateweaving adventure!"

What are we doing?

"This is what I like about you, cohort. You're results driven, focused. Oh, I'm ready to take the next step, build on the work that we did to smooth my fraying fateline.
And one day fix the Fateweaver Key! Hah!"

Sounds like you have a plan.

"More than that, I have a revelation! Let's away to my sanctum sanctorum. It lies at the heart of Skywatch in Auridon.
There we can scry for a new destination, improve the Key, and put my research into action!"

All right, let's head to your sanctum then.

After you agree to help him, he will give directions to his sanctum. You can also use this time to ask him additional questions:

"My sanctum is in a ruin at the center of Skywatch. Can't miss it.
Don't mind the sentinels posted by the entrance. A compromise between myself and Telenger of the Mage's [sic] guild. Feh."

Can we talk about your research a moment?

"Ah, of course. Apologies, cohort. We rarely have a chance to catch up.
Your adventures are as stimulating as they are manifold. You certainly stay busy."

Why do we need to go to your sanctum?

"Privacy! Supplies. And erm … materials. You'll see when we get there. I'm quite proud of the place."

Why is your sanctum in Skywatch?

"That is a long and mildly scandalous story. The short version is that Telenger the Artificer, gloryhound of the Mages Guild, lost a wager. Badly.
I'm afraid he doesn't like me very much anymore."

How has the research been going?

"It is simultaneously vexing and alluring in equal measure. I'm still unsure what I did quote unquote wrong in making the Key.
But with Martina's notes and some hands-on experimentation during our first adventure, I have had much to go on."

Got it. Let's get going, then. (Ends Conversation)

You can then head to his Sanctum in Skywatch, Azandar will comment as you enter the ruin:

Azandar: "Ah, here we are! Home sweet sanctum. Let's talk, cohort. Post-haste!"

Speak with Azandar to see what he wants to do:

"Welcome to my sanctum sanctorum! I've been meaning to invite you over before now but something always seemed to come up.
Mind the books, now. Some of them bite."

What's the plan, Azandar?

"Well, I started with a simple question. How can we sew up the threads my experiment has frayed?
That led me to a metaphor. What if we could create a sort of mystic spool we could attach to the Key? Something to help in reweaving my fateline?"

You want to modify the Fateweaver Key with this spool?

"Spool is a terrible word. Let's not call it that. Perhaps … a bobbin? Azandar's arcane bobbin? Ugh. We'll keep working on it.
Peerless observation though. Yes, we create a simple arcanomystical focus we can use to anchor the threads of fate."

All right, how do we make this bobbin?

"Within loyal Gubbins, my most recent atronach, lies the nascent form of the bobbin. Just need to get it out of there.
I've prepped an arcane stencil for you. Retrieve it from the rummage bin and imbue it with magicka from the font, please."

Grab the stencil and imbue it with magicka. Got it.

You can continue speaking with Azandar before collecting the parts you need:

"I appreciate you taking on the legwork, cohort. Fashioning the stencil took some considerable effort.
Think of this as an opportunity to walk in the well-heeled slippers of Azandar al-Cybiades!"

Why do you have a flesh atronach named Gubbins?

"What name would you have given it? I briefly considered calling it Piffle.
But Martina used to call magical instruments gubbins, and I was feeling sentimental."

I meant, why do you have a flesh atronach?

"Oh. It acts as reliable help down here. The way things are with the Mages Guild, I try to keep entry and exit to a minimum.
Besides, I don't want someone messing up my papers. Or having them quit on short notice just because something exploded."

That seems incredibly specific.

"Yes, well. I thought I could steward a new arcanist and it … did not go well.
They failed to have either the zeal or intellectual curiosity you do, cohort."

Right.

After you have collected the Arcanomystical Stencil:

Azandar: "Spiffing! Just needs a little magicka to get going. Hold the stencil over the font just there, eh?"

Before you charge the stencil:

"The expertise and aptitude it took to imbue the stencil with such a complex spell…. Heh.
I'm quite good at this, you know."

Once you have charged the stencil over the magika font:

Azandar: "Peerless! Now, point it at Gubbins and gesticulate. Vigorously!"

Speaking with Azandar before using the stencil:

"Gesticulate wildly in Gubbins' general direction. Don't worry, this won't hurt him."

You then use the stencil on Gubbins and it will dissolve into a pile of goop:

Azandar: "And down goes Gubbins. Rummage around in the goop, would you?"

Before you pick up the bobbin:

"Don't worry, it didn't hurt. Just reach into the leftover Gubbins goop and grab that bobbin.
Really wish I'd come up with a better name for that."

Picking through the goo, you can claim the Arcane Bobbin:

Azandar: "Hah, one arcane bobbin … damn! Well, nothing for it. The name's stuck. Let's just get on with this."

Talk to Azandar to hand over the Bobbin:

"We've pierced the esoteric veil of reality and forged the tool of our own self-liberation!
Who's an amateurish rune-scratcher now, Telenger? Hah!"

One arcane bobbin. Here you go, Azandar.

"Exceptional! Now to simply attach it to the Fateweaver Key … and there we are! Dear Martina's methods distilled down and improved by yours truly.
Let's find a new round of frayed fates and put theory into practice!"

Just like last time, right?

"Just so. With the improved key as a focus, this scrying ritual should be even more effective. It was a stroke of luck I recognized Fathoms Drift, last time around.
Let's away to my Inner Sanctum and scry. Onward and upward."

Let's go.

Head into the Inner Sanctum to begin the ritual:

Azandar: "Good. Now, let's find where we're headed."

Azandar: "With the bobbin, this should be as easy as a Mages Guild theorem! Just as before, cohort, activate the beacons."

Use the key on the beacons, and Azandar will begin to scry for the next location:

Azandar: "Somewhere in the Alik'r Desert it seems … oh. I see. Kozanset."

Talk to Azandar to see what he knows:

"Scrying has provided us direction, focus. Even if I am unexcited about the prospect of returning to the Alik'r Desert.
I suppose I should have seen this coming, at some point."

Why should you have known we'd be going to Alik'r?

"The scrying ritual highlighted the village of Kozanset, in the hinterlands of the Alik'r desert. It … ah. This is somewhat embarrassing.
That tiny hamlet is my home town. Where the impressive arcanist before you got his humble start."

Why is that embarrassing?

"Well, I introduce myself as "Azandar al-Cybiades." Which to another son or daughter of Ruptga means I hail from an island off the coast.
It's all a bit of braggadocio, though. Part of the mystique! Ahem."

Are you worried about going back to Kozanset?

"Worried? Hah, hardly! The only things to worry about in Kozanset are getting stung by a scorpion or your lips drying out.
Let's make haste, cohort. These fates won't unfray themselves, you know?"

All right. To Kozanset, then.

Before you head to Kozanset, you can speak with Azandar a bit more about this:

"I'd honestly hoped never to have to return to Kozanset, cohort. Hoped with the incandescent fire of Magnus himself. Hah!"

Why do you use the name if you weren't born on Cybiades?

"A fair question. When I first left home I was desperate to shake the metaphorical sand from my boots.
When someone asked my name in a Sentinel marketplace, I couldn't bear to tell the truth."

Why do you still introduce yourself that way?

"It's who I am. The book-loving introvert from Kozanset, the young man drawing runes in the sand and dreaming of a wider world … well, I won't be so dramatic to say he's dead.
But he and I have very little in common."

Understood.

When you arrive at the outskirts of Kozanset will Azandar, he will comment:

Azandar: "Here we are … Kozanset. Let's get searching, eh cohort?"

Azandar: "Hmm. You never forget this particular smell. Dry desert air and farm animals. Reminds me why I left."

You have the option of speaking with Azandar while searching for frayed fates in the area:

"Smell that? This place reeks of camel spit and unrealized potential. Hmph."

Do you still have any family around here?

"Yes and no. My brother and his family still live nearby. But I haven't spoken to them since I left. I was determined to have conversations about anything other than what to feed the camels.
It's always some kind of grass, by the by."

You don't want to see them?

"Let's focus, cohort. Perhaps later we'll have a dram of gormapple schnapps together and toast the old homestead.
For now, we need to find those frayed fates and sew them back into the fabric of reality."

Right, let's find those fates.

Speaking with him again after this, while searching for the first frayed fate:

"Let's keep an eye out for those frayed fates.
Ah, and if by chance someone shouts my name? Just say "where?" and start looking around like you don't see anyone."

You will find a glowing fate thread in the middle of the street:

Azandar: "Ah, there! A thread."

Before you interact with the thread:

"Eyes open, ready for anything!"

Using the Modified Fateweaver Key on the thread, will reveal one of Azandar's frayed fates:

Azandar the Beggar: "I say, you there! Spare a coin for a down-on-his-luck researcher?"

Azandar: "There but for the power of Apocrypha go I! With many of my projects, success and disaster were decided by a handful of coins!"

Before you use the key on the beggar:

"Go ahead and use the key. We'll return this poor researcher to the weave of the Aurbis."

Use the key on Azandar the Beggar to untie the frayed fate and repair the fateline. Azandar will comment:

Azandar: "Sobering. Hmm."

Speaking with Azandar afterwards:

"Let's keep at it! The threads of fate will lead us where we need to go."

You find another fate thread in the center of town:

Azandar: "Another one! I suppose it makes sense there are a few around the place where I was born."

Before you approach the thread:

"Let the threads of fate lead us. Let's keep at it."

Using the Modified Fateweaver Key will reveal Azandar the Priest:

Azandar the Priest: "You there. Are you on walkabout as well? Tall Papa protect and keep you on your long journey!"

Azandar: "Ugh! How can he be me? I'd never devote myself to a higher power … at least without seeking to surpass them in some way." ^{[verification needed — see talk page]}

Talking to Azandar before using the key again:

"Distressing to think I'd ever take up … clerical vestments. Ech. Use the key, quick as you please."

After using the key on the two frayed fates found in Kozanset, Azandar will want to talk:

Azandar: "Let's talk a moment."

Speak with him:

"Much to discuss from the fates we've seen. Commendable work. But … something's not quite right.
Let me see the Fateweaver Key a moment."

Here's your key, Azandar.

"Yes … yes. I'm even more brilliant than I imagined! The bobbin is rattling against the key, straining at its runic bonds. It now acts as a passive frayed fate detector.
Incredible! Phenomenal!"

So there's another frayed fate nearby?

"Superb supposition. The key is indicating … hmm. North and east, out of town. Perhaps the old ruins?
Here, take the key. Let's move!"

Northeast to the ruins. Let's go!

Talking to him afterwards:

"The threads will lead us where we need to go. I'm sure of it."

Seeing another thread outside of town:

Azandar: "Another thread. I knew it. My Fateweaver Key is amazing."

As you head out of town and follow the path, Azandar will comment:

Azandar: "Yes, this feels right. I went off exploring on my own every chance I could. You understand."

Getting close to the old ruins:

Azandar: "The entrance to the old ruins are just up this way. I remember it like it was yesterday."

Soon you will meet another of the frayed fates, except something else happens this time:

Azandar the Tour Guide: "Follow me, everyone!"

The Adversary: "You! Are Mine!"

Azandar: "What in Oblivion? It's the fate we saw back at Fathoms Drift!"

The Adversary: "I am not ready to face you. Not yet."

Azandar: "After him, cohort! Into the Lost City!"

Before you pursue:

"My adversary has followed us, somehow. Quickly, cohort. Let's get inside."

Enter the Lost City of the Na-Totambu by following the road. Once inside Azandar will say the following:

Azandar: "These ruins are not extensive. Stay alert for more threads of fate."

Speaking with him afterwards:

"I can sense a perturbation in my fateline. My adversary is close."

In a corner within the ruins you will find the frayed fate Azandar the Prospector, the Adversary will attack and envelope him with a beam of red light:

The Adversary: "Ah, "Azandar." My counterpart. You sought to learn, to gain power! But now you shall be replaced! Hahaha!"

Azandar: "What are you?"

The Adversary: "I grow ever stronger. Your fates feed me. Soon, I shall surpass even you!"

Speaking to him before you disrupt the Adversary:

"Panic! Terror! Consternation! Let's stop that thing!"

After absorbing the Prospector, the Adversary will change appearance, becoming a closer copy to the prime Azandar. Before he disappears.>

Azandar: "That thing wishes to … replace me, then? Most disconcerting. We should discuss this. Outside."

Before you head outside:

"I need to think and ambulate, cohort. Let's get out of these damned ruins."

Once outside you can speak with Azandar to finish the quest:

"Just when I thought we had this experiment under control, an evil reflection threatens to consume my fate and replace me.
Hmm."

What was that thing, Azandar?

"It's me! Or, well. A frayed version of myself.
A version so malevolent and willful that it's thrown everything I thought I knew about this magic into the abyssal seas."

You seem less sure of yourself than the first time we confronted this thing.

"An astute observation. The Fateweaver Key was created simply to observe the might-have-beens. This absolutely, categorically, should not be happening.
If not for you, it might already have killed me. A distressing notion, I must admit."

What do you want to do next?

"Research. Surely something back at the sanctum …. Or perhaps a tome we find in our travels? Either way, I have yet to find a question to which sufficient research does not hold the answer.
Besides, I need to stitch Gubbins back together."

So back to our travels then, in the meantime.

"A superlative idea. And look at what we've already accomplished. The Fateweaver Key improved, frayed fates sewn back into my line, and the adversary confronted once again.
Here, cohort, your due. With my humble thanks. Spend it judiciously."

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

"My research will take time. And I like to be considered in my stitching on dear old Gubbins.
You know how pets can be."

So back to our travels then? (Leads to quest completion dialogue)

Adversarial Adventures[edit]

Once you reach 2000 rapport, Azandar will ask for your help again:

"Cohort, I need to be transparent with you. Not literally, of course. All that line of inquiry led to was some traumatized street children in Sentinel.
I can't stop thinking about my adversary. The frayed fate that wants to replace me."

What are you thinking, Azandar?

"My adversary has somehow transcended the limitations of the other frayed fates. It has an awareness of its own existence, agency, and a malign intellect.
Hmm. Perhaps I should have paid more attention to the warning from that Daedra, Tem."

How do you want to deal with the adversary?

"I want to ignore it and hope it goes away, but what works for toothaches may not hold true for extra-temporal phenomena.
Let's continue our work on the Fateweaver key. To the Skywatch sanctum! We can scry for frayed fates, and gather supplies."

Right. Let's head to the sanctum.

Before you continue, you have option of asking Azandar some questions:

"In your own time, cohort. The Skywatch sanctum will be well protected by Gubbins in the meantime.
Hmm. Hopefully he still recalls the proper steeping interval for a cup of Orcrest rooibos."

Shouldn't we track the adversary? Instead of your frayed fates?

"Hah, that's the mark of a valuable partnership! When researchers are so closely aligned in thought they're able to finish each other's … erm."

… sentences?

"Precisely! We have worked together long enough now that I feel quite sustained by our companionship.
I do my best work at your side, these days. Exemplary work, if I do say so myself."

How does our partnership relate to the adversary?

… breakfast?

"Um, not my intention. But certainly!
I'm partial to a nice shakshuka or some of those Wayrest crepes, if you want to get some food later."

How does our partnership relate to the adversary?

"Ah! Our partnership is the fulcrum we will use to topple this mystery. The adversary is me, after a fashion, right?
But he does not have access to our intellectual rapport. Nor our experience at surviving fierce battles. And so … we shall prevail!"

All right. Let's start toppling.

Once you arrive outside Azandar's sanctum:

Azandar: "Gubbins has prepared the inner sanctum for us. Let's head inside."

When you have entered his sanctum, you can check in with him:

"Back at it again! I was quite pleased with our last outing, threats to my very existence aside.
The arcane bobbin … ugh, wish we'd come up with a better name … was a smashing success. My sagacity astonishes me sometimes."

We're here for the scrying ritual?

"Precisely. Each time, our expertise with this particular bit of metamagic improves. The connection between the Fateweaver key and choices along my fateline grows stronger.
My hope is to find multiple fate sites, this go around."

All right. Let's start scrying.

He will need you to light the beacons again in the scrying chamber:

"You're almost as accomplished at this scrying ritual as I am. Hah!
Prepare the site, and I can locate the frayed fates we seek."

After they are lit, he will be to scry once more:

Azandar: "Very well! Let's see where we're going this time …."

Azandar: "Did you see that? Stonefalls, Malabal Tor … and a Dwemer ruin. Fascinating."

Talk with Azandar to see what he knows about the locations and their relation to him:

"Another set of frayed fates. Here's hoping they're a bit more luminous than those in Kozanset.
I believe we should start with Stonefalls."

Why is one of your frayed fates in Stonefalls?

"Well, as we learned in Kozanset, frayed fates are most likely to appear at locales where I spent a considerable amount of time. That said, I'm not quite sure what I … did in … Stonefalls.
Oh, Mora's many eyes. Damn it!"

What's wrong?

"Ahh. Nothing wrong per se. But I just remembered what I did in Stonefalls that might have resulted in weighty choices made.
I was just starting out as a field researcher, still coming into my power as an arcanist. My inquiries were … misguided."

In what way?

"I chugged half a firkin of moon sugar and stayed awake for four days reading the Sermons of Vivec. At the time I hoped to gain some new insights into ancient magics.
In any case! We know where to go. Onward and upward. To Ebonheart!"

Right. To Ebonheart.

You have the option of talking to Azandar some more before heading to Ebonheart:

"I recall disliking my time in Stonefalls … but I'm having difficulty remembering why. I suppose that's moon sugar for you.
Let's head to Ebonheart. I know I began my time in the region there, so it's at least a place to start."

Any clue why we'd be going to Malabal Tor or a Dwemer ruin?

"Indeed. Malabal Tor, most likely, will see us going to the Ayleid ruins of Ilayas. I spent a stultifying season there studying the wells that typify such locales.
I'm less sure about the Dwemer ruin. I've studied dozens of their constructs."

So it could be anywhere.

"Well, anywhere as defined by the ancestral homeland of the Deep Elves. The region called Morrowind. Or anywhere along the north-northwest arm of their post First Council diaspora ….
Ah, but you were speaking colloquially. Apologies."

Good to know.

When you arrive in Ebonheart, Stonefalls, Azandar will have a vague memory of where to go:

Azandar: "I've got vague memories swimming in my mind, cohort. Let's head to the metalworks by the south gate."

Finding a fate thread outside the city walls:

Azandar: "Aha! Fate threading, just as we saw in Kozanset. Use the Fateweaver Key and we'll follow where it leads."

Talking with Azandar at this point:

"I tell you, cohort, I thought standing here would have shaken something loose. But … nothing!
We'll have to follow my tried-and-true method for magical investigation: poke things until they do something interesting."

When you chase the fate to the bridge:

Azandar: "On the bridge, another thread."

Following the trail of threads westwards:

Azandar: "The further west we travel the more I begin to get nervous. But why?"

Passing by the Starved Plain:

Azandar: "Ignore the soldiers. If they ask, we're just mages looking for uh. Reagents."

The path leads to the shore and Vivec's Antlers and the reason for Azandar's discomfort is revealed:

Azandar: "Yech! That's why my skin is crawling. Dreugh! I hate these things."

Keep following the trail of fate threads, and you will come across the frayed fate you were tracking:

Azandar: "Look! Is that one of my frayed fates on the ground?"

Speaking to him before untying the fate:

"Erroneous. Fallacious. This seems quite wrong.
As if it was left here for us. A warning?"

You find it splayed out on the ground and somehow empty looking. Use the key to untie it and stitch it back into the universe. Azandar will comment afterwards:

Azandar: "Disturbing. Ominous!"

Speak with Azandar for his opinion:

"This frayed fate has been hollowed out like a Witches Festival pumpkin. The adversary did this. Must have been his goal at the Lost City of Na-Totambu.
Also, can you hear the sound of the Dreugh chitin rubbing against itself? I'm fairly sure I can."

Are you all right?

"Full disclosure, cohort, no. I'm trying hard to maintain my sunny disposition and halcyon personality.
I swear I can feel Dreugh pedipalps upon my skin. And my adversary … what is his plan? It's vexing."

Let's focus on the adversary. What do they want?

"It's … is it a show of strength? No. He's me. This has some purpose. He's gathering power. But to what end?
My initial enthusiasm for experimental results seems increasingly inappropriate."

How do we learn more?

"Let's away to Malabal Tor, the Ayleid ruins of Ilayas. I spent some time there, years ago.
Boring though it was, it's likely the location of my frayed fate. Hopefully we'll find some clue to the adversary's plan."

All right, let's head for Malabal Tor.

Speaking with Azandar again before leaving:

"Hmm. I wonder if the frayed fate we'll find at Ilayas is a version of me that actually learned something useful from studying those ruins.
All I had to show for my time there was a few snakebites and an ill-advised romantic entanglement."

Once you arrive outside the Ilayas Ruins, Azandar will soon spot a thread:

Azandar: "Hah! There, a thread. And are those Sea Elves? Damned pirates."

Talking to Azandar here:

"I spent a summer studying these ruins from top to bottom, and learned very little for my trouble.
Let's stay alert for that frayed fate!"

Further into the ruins and Sea Elf camp:

Azandar: "Another thread, there, at the apex of the ruins!"

At the top, you will find another drained frayed fate:

Azandar: "There! Another fate. Drained and lingering. Use the Fateweaver Key, if you please."

Azandar: "The adversary was just here, we can track him! I'm constructing a rune of seeking."

Azandar: "Scrutinary exploratum!"

Azandar: "He is clever. But I am cleverer. This portal should lead us directly to him."

You can talk with Azandar before entering the portal:

"I hate entering a portal without knowing where it might end up. But it's occasionally an occupational hazard.
A tip: hold your breath. A memorable excursion saw me stepping from a portal into the middle of the Nibenay Bay. Disaster."

Entering the portal, you will arrive outside Nchuleftingth in Vvardenfell:

Azandar: "Nchuleftingth! Of course! The third image from our scrying was Nchuleftingth."

Talk with Azandar before you continue:

"We stand before the entrance to the Dwemer construct known as Nchuleftingth. The adversary must be inside.
It's imperative we discover his purpose here, cohort."

What's the problem?

"It's entirely possible some dangerous artifacts are still kicking around in there. Most don't know how to use them.
But I do. Which, in all likelihood, probably means …."

He knows how to use them as well.

"If he's here to expand on my Fateweaver research, I imagine we'll find him in the Ametric Interval Chamber. It's at the heart of the ruins.
Be ready for a scrap. I took pains to keep a low profile but together we'll likely attract attention."

Understood. Let's head to the chamber.

You can continue to speak with him before entering:

"Let's head inside. We must reach the adversary before they do anything catastrophic or cataclysmic.
Also, dibs on any soul gems we find inside."

Why is this place so important? How is it related to the Fateweaver?

"This construct is where my path to the Fateweaver Key finally came into focus. The ancient lore of the Dwemer commingled with my incandescent research."

The Fateweaver key uses Dwemer elements?

"Oh no, not directly. But Dwemeric tonal architecture was the final inspiration I needed to crack the problem.
It led directly to my understanding of fateweaving. And thus, to our current situation."

All right. Let's head inside.

Once inside Nchuleftingth:

Azandar: "At one point I seriously considered investigating the mystery of the Dwemer. I decided against it after meeting other researchers in the field. What a ponderous lot!"

Speaking with Azandar at this point:

"The Interval Chamber is deep within the complex, past the approach and on the southern end of the ruins.
Let's be cautious, calm, and clever cohort. The constructs of the long-departed Dwemer are extraordinarily dangerous."

Further in the ruins:

Azandar: "I'd forgotten how vast this complex can feel. Designed to intimidate, certainly, but also a practicality. Can you imagine the scale of the mechanisms behind those walls?"

He will point out the traps in the ruins:

Azandar: "Watch those traps, cohort. Even if they are fairly unsophisticated."

Close to the Ametric Interval Chamber:

Azandar: "The chamber's not too far now. Hopefully we can discover the adversary's goal before he achieves it."

Once inside the Ametric Interval Chamber, you will find two frayed fates writhing in pain as they are drained by the Adversary:

Azandar: "He's here! We've got him!"

The Adversary: "Welcome, counterpart. It's here that we discovered the true potential of the fatelines. And I've returned to claim the device I needed."

The Adversary: "We both saw the power, the potential. The chance to claim the strength of your lessers. You rebuke our very nature!"

You with need to use the Fateweaver key to dispel the fates before they are drained completely. Speaking with downed Azandar:

"Don't worry about me! Deal with the fates!"

Once you have dispelled the fates, the Adversary will take his leave:

The Adversary: "I am the part of you that knows the true way to power. And we shall meet again."

Azandar: "Damn it. Let's get out of here and talk."

Speaking with Azandar before you leave:

"Oof, that knocked the wind out of me.
We have much to discuss. Let's do that breathing some fresh air, under an open sky, if you don't terribly mind."

When you are outside you can speak with Azandar to complete the quest:

"Inquiry asked and answered, I suppose. The adversary came here for a dwemeric device to modify his Fateweaver Key.
I'm at a loss. To think this is where my experiment might have led."

What is it the adversary wants?

"To erase me, replace me, and inflict the power of his dark Fateweaver upon our world.
Cohort, knowledge was the gift that allowed me to strike out on my own, to travel Nirn and beyond. To see it twisted like this is sickening."

Why is this so distressing for you?

"Because he's me. He's the Azandar I see in the mirror on my worst days.
The arse I struggle with in the darkest parts of the night when research, travel, and tea can't distract me."

What do you want to do?

"To end him. But that's easier said than done. With the strength he's gained now … who knows what my adversary is capable of.
I will throw myself into this research with the full force of my faculties, cohort. You have my word."

I'll be here when you're ready to take on the adversary.

Leaving and returning to the conversation at this point:

"I will throw myself into this research with the full force of my faculties. You'll be the first I tell when the fruit of knowledge blooms."

I'll be here when you're ready to take on the adversary.

"I expected nothing less. And consider our accomplishments. We've confirmed the adversary's goal, denied him the Interval Chamber and, finally, I see the seriousness of my actions.
For now, accept this stipend with my vehement thanks."

Tempting Fates[edit]

Once you reach 3000 rapport, Azandar will be ready to deal with the Adversary and end his experiment and asks for your help:

"Cohort, I need a word. In truth? Probably several hundred. You have my assurance each will be selected for maximum expository and rhetorical effect.
My research has progressed as far as I am able. It is time we concluded the Fateweaver experiment."

You want to confront your adversary?

"Absolutely! But the adversary is inextricably bound to my fateline. Thankfully, my studies have uncovered a way forward.
We must procure a mystic text called the Unraveling Palimpsest. It currently resides within a tome trove called Quires Wind."

What will this text do for us?

"The contents of the palimpsest are unique to every reader. By reading the text, I can discover the anchors that bind the adversary to me. The first step in destroying him.
What do you say? Ready to end this experiment?"

I'm ready. Let's head to Quires Wind.

You can continue talking to Azandar before leaving for Quires Wind:

"Quires Wind is deep within Apocrypha, the far eastern side of the region.
We'll need to be wary. As with so many cases in Mora's realm, the books are just as dangerous as its denizens."

Have you discovered anything else about the adversary?

"Our last adventure helped to focus my efforts. I believe the adversary is anchored to my fateline by defining moments in my life.
That's what led me to the Unraveling Palimpsest. Bit of a cheat, but it wouldn't be the first time. Heh."

Have your feelings about your experiment changed?

"I promised you a convivial attitude when we first began working together, and I hope I've delivered on that promise.
But our time together has … well. Clarified a few things for me."

Like what?

"I've been searching for power and knowledge since I was old enough to draw runes in the sands outside Kozanset. I've realized, in some ways I never looked up from those sands.
Together, cohort. You and I? We can set this thing right."

Can you tell me more about the Unraveling Palimpsest?

"The tome is a supernatural phenomenon, created in reaction to the vast oceans of knowledge in Mora's realm.
The reader can learn any secret, any truth, as long as it pertains to their life. It "unravels" the secrets of the reader's fateline."

That sounds very powerful.

"Inordinately. But once we make use of the tome, well … we cannot do so again. I've been keeping it in my proverbial back pocket.
A lever to shift a problem I cannot solve any other way. I feel the adversary rises to that level."

Let's get going. (Ends Conversation)

Once you enter Quires Wind in Apocrypha, Azandar will make your search for the Unraveling Palimpsest easier:

Azandar: "Rather than wander this maze, let's make use of my rune of searching again. Incantus Eruditum!"

Azandar: "Just follow where it leads, cohort. And don't worry about getting waylaid. It will wait for us."

Speaking with Azandar here:

"Keep your eyes open, cohort. We'll find that tome.
Ah, and if you see a book with a stitched-up cover on a special dais, don't go browsing. I went blind for a month the last time I was here."

As you approach the dais holding the Unraveling Palimpsest:

Azandar: "Ah! There. On the ledge."

After taking the book, talk to Azandar to hand it over:

"Exceptional. I'll take a quick perusal, here. One of my favorite pastimes, really.
Reading an ancient tome to find an inscrutable answer while someone stares at me expectantly."

Does it have the information you need?

"Just skimming past some nonsense about my inner self. Serenity, inner peace. Ah, here!
My research was correct. It seems the adversary is anchored to my fateline by specific moments, particular choices. We can use those anchors against him."

How can we use anchors to your life against the adversary?

"It will require an uncomfortable delve into my past. Prepare yourself. We'll have to acquire a trio of artifacts that represent hinge points in my life.
The first is a bloodstone to represent my time with dear old Spellwright Nilvon, in Balmora."

All right. What else?

"An Aetherial Rubric. I made one studying with the Star-Gazers. Nonsense I left behind near Belkarth.
We'll also need … Nathriin's Commentaries. A rebuttal of a treatise I wrote during my time at Shad Astula. Not looking forward to that."

We'll have to do some traveling to find these things.

You can continue speaking with him and ask about the items you need to collect:

"Thank you, for the infiniteth time cohort. Your support is what makes this journey of mine possible.
We'll need the bloodstone, rubric, and paper if we're going to confront the adversary. Just let me know if you have any questions."

Let's talk a bit more about the items we're looking for.

"Of course! They're all, well. Personal representations of my past. Totems.
Effigies of past failures, you might call them? What would you like to know?"

Why do we need this bloodstone?

"It's technically a calx of Alessian solvents, but no one calls it that. The Balmoran alchemist I studied with, Nilvon, is one of a handful in the world who know how to make them.
It's the perfect representation of my studies, and failures, with him."

Where can we find Nilvon and the bloodstone?

"He has an alchemical studitorium, of course, but as I recall he enjoyed studying with the background drone of conversation and libation.
We should check the inn at Balmora, a quaint little place with the ever-so-droll name of The Randy Netch."

Tell me more about the Aetherean Rubric.

"It's an instrument. The Star-Gazers believe it can allow them to interact directly with the Celestials. Codswallop, of course!
But the underlying magical principals in their work have been instrumental in my own research."

Where can we find this rubric?

"The Observatory just above Belkarth was where I spent most of my time. The Star-Gazers are an odd group, and I'm not sure who among their order will still be around after all these years.
We'll just have to hope someone remembers me."

How about Nathriin's Commentaries? Who's Nathriin?

"Elydrina Nathriin, one of my tutors at Shad Astula. During my time there I wrote a treatise called "The Fate Dialectical." She took umbrage with my assertions, and wrote an extensive rebuttal.
I thought it was drivel. Now … it's key to our plan."

Where can we find Nathriin's Commentaries?

"Nathriin will be in the Shad Astula main building, likely the Arch Mage's offices. She was already a prominent scholar, and no doubt has continued to rise since my departure.
I'm just hopeful she's mellowed in the intervening years."

Thanks for the information, Azandar. (Ends Conversation)

Once in Balmora:

"Hmm. Nilvon looks as though he's been taking care of himself since our time together. Brilliant."

After speaking with Nilvon but before getting the bloodstone:

"Damnit. Of course he's going to lord the bloodstone over me.
I suggest you find some way to convince him, cohort, before we end up drawn into some elaborate Nilvon scheme."

After you pay Nilvon, you can wait for him to bring out the bloodstone:

Azandar: "I see you're still holding onto these mephitic notions of victimhood, Nilvon."

Spellwright Nilvon: "And you're still a pompous arse that uses ten coin words when one will do. I'll summon this, and then you two get gone."

Once you have picked up the bloodstone, Azandar will have a final thing to say to Nilvon:

Azandar: "For whatever it's worth, Nilvon, I'm sorry that things ended so badly between us. This stone is in excellent shape. Thank you."

Spellwright Nilvon: "Three take you, you pretentious fetcher. Onwards and get out of here."

After collecting the bloodstone, you will need to head to Belkarth in Craglorn to get the Aetheric Rubric:

Azandar: "The Star-Gazers are just mages with a fancy name. Which means they're hopefully still hanging onto that old rubric."

Speaking with Azandar in town:

"There was window, a small one, when I thought perhaps the path of a Star-Gazer was my fate. To sit, watch the heavens, and work with the heralds until I figured everything out.
A few months later I ran out of skooma. And promptly left."

When you enter Star-Gazers' Observatory, a Khajiit Star-Gazer will walk up to you and Azandar:

Lillurazha: "Azandar al-Cybiades! Last time I saw you, you threw an aetheric construct at the High Astrologer's head."

Azandar: "Hah! I'd forgotten that! It was the only way to get through to that simpleton. Coincidentally, if you believe in such things, I have need of that rubric. Any chance it's still around?"

Talking with Azandar before Lillurazha:

"I'm actually somewhat surprised that Lillirhuza remembers me. I certainly didn't make a good impression with her group."

You can find the Aetheric Rubric in a chest upstairs:

Azandar: "Well. One would think the Star-Gazers would've taken better care of this."

With two of items in hand, you will need to go to Shad Astula in Deshaan to collect the third item: the Commentary on Fate Dialectics. Azandar will say the following when you enter the grounds:

Azandar: "I suggest we try the main building. If there's a copy of Nathriin's Commentaries left, it will be there."

Talking to him:

"Ahh, the halls of Shad Astula. Elydrina should be around here somewhere, likely in the Arch Mage's office.
Let's not take long here, cohort."

When you enter the office, Elydrina will notice Azandar:

Elydrina Nathriin: "Well, well, well. Looked what the senche dragged in."

Azandar: "Cohort, would you mind speaking with her? Erm. Please?"

Azandar will practically be cringing after you speak with Elydrina:

"This is everything I feared. Sweet Mora's eyes this is embarrassing."

You heard, then? She wants you to apologize.

"You have to understand, cohort, at the time I thought it was merely a scholarly disagreement!
I'd spent months on my dialectics. And I felt I was being dismissed as unimportant, unoriginal."

She said you really insulted her. Didn't you ask her to write that commentary?

"I mean. Yes. You're quite right. I just remember how angry I was … but in truth. Her arguments were well-thought out. Insightful, even.
Throwing her work into the flames, in front of her no less, was a childish act. Very well …."

I'm sure she'll appreciate whatever you have to say.

Azandar will then apologize to Elydrina:

Azandar: "Ahem, hello Elydrina. Some time ago, I behaved rather boorishly to you. So …."

Elydrina Nathriin: "That's your best effort? You never found a book on apologizing in the great libraries of Apocrypha?"

Azandar: "I'm sorry, I reacted badly to perceived criticism. I insulted you, ignoring the time and effort you put into reading and responding to my work. Tossing your work aside as I did was inexcusable. And I apologize."

Elydrina Nathriin: "Well mercy mother preserve me. Thank you, Azandar. Apology accepted. My copy's on the lower shelf on the far wall. Good luck, with whatever you're into."

Talking to him after his apology:

"Let's not spend any more time in this place than we have to.
I can't even imagine what my library fees have compounded to."

Once you have picked up the Commentary on Fate Dialectal, you can talk to Azandar as you have collected all three of the required items:

"Exhausting but superlative work, cohort. Now that we have the anchors, we will transform them into a weapon. A means to unmoor the adversary from my fateline.
Such magic would normally be a lengthy and unstable process."

Normally? What are we going to do?

"Do you recall Tem, the Omen of Fate? I'm loathe to say it, but that Daedra's skill with fateweaving outstrips even my own.
If I offer him a contract, I believe he can quickly and efficiently transform our anchors into a Runeform of Unmaking."

How are we going to contract with Tem?

"A trifle! We shall borrow a summoning circle from the Mages Guild. At your earliest convenience, cohort, we should make for the city of Riften.
In … the Rift. Ach, Nords."

Why are we going to that Mages Guild hall?

"The flow of magicka through every hall is different. Each resonates with a unique arcanic potential. It's all in the subtleties, you know.
Also, I stole the key to the ritual room at the Riften hall several years ago and they still haven't noticed."

All right. Let's head to Riften.

Speaking with Azandar again, you can ask about the contract he plans to offer Tem:

"Let's get to Riften, quick as we can. I'm not eager to speak to Tem again.
But we must do what we must. Onward and upward!"

What's this contract you're going to offer Tem?

"Oh, a fairly standard parley. Daedra are immortal, you know, so they're always looking to trade favors.
That is what I shall do with Tem. A favor owed in exchange for his assistance today. Don't worry, cohort. Perfectly safe."

Understood. If you're sure, let's get going.

Once inside the Riften Mages Hall:

Azandar: "Walk casually, just mages here on mage business. There's a trap door to the basement."

You can enter the ritual room via the trapdoor, once through, Azandar will open the door to the true ritual room:

Azandar: "Let's get down to the ritual circle. The real one, not that light show on the rug."

Azandar: "There's a spell hook here, just have to draw it down and … there we go. Let's head below."

Speaking with Azandar here:

"I must focus on the ritual, cohort."

Head downwards into the small cavern, there Azandar will summon Tem and make his bargain:

Azandar: "No time for niceties. We summon Tem, the Omen of Destiny. Come before us!"

Azandar: "I bind myself in contract with you, Omen. Future payment in trade for your aide today."

Tem: "Tem is summoned! Your contract is acceptable, arcanist. Ask your questions."

Azandar: "I hold totems of my past, and no question but one: will you consume these anchors to create a Runeform of Unmaking? To end my adversary?"

Tem: "The past acts as an anchor, strength for this thing that should not be. Are you sure you wish your creation destroyed?"

Azandar: "Yes. My cohort will be my path to greater glories, greater knowledge. My experiment must end."

Tem: "Very well. Ally, step forward. Place the anchors within the ritual flames."

Azandar: "Just as he said, place the items in the apocryphal fire."

You can then place the three items on the platform and they will burn with green fire. Tem will cast some runes and a scroll and box will appear in the ritual circle:

Tem: "The knowledge of the runeform is yours, arcanist. We shall see each other again."

Azandar: "This is it. Let's return to my sanctum, scry for the adversary. And end this!"

You can speak with Azandar once you arrive back in Skywatch:

"I don't look forward to Tem asking for this favor repaid in kind. But … it's done. Swirling within my mind is the Runeform of Unmaking.
Let's return to my sanctum. We shall grip the adversary's fateline and put an end to this."

However, when you arrive at the entrance to the Sanctuary Sanctum, you will find a dark blue barrier in front of it:

Azandar: "What's this barrier doing here? Is this Telenger's doing? That hack!"

The Adversary: "Ah, my counterpart. Forgive me, I am responsible for the barrier. I simply can't have you two interrupting me."

The Adversary: "There it is. I couldn't wait to see the look on your face. The realization I have access to all of your theorems, relics, and research."

The Adversary: "Your tomes were most instructive. The ritual has already begun. Your life is mine. Goodbye. For the last time."

Talk to Azandar about this new development:

"The adversary has locked us out of the sanctum! My sanctum! Quickly! We must find a way back inside before eldritch forces are loosed in the city!
Worse, I might have to explain all of this to Telenger the Artificer. I can't bear the thought."

What do you mean by eldritch forces?

"You've been down there! Half the projects I've got cooking could level this city!
Plus, I'd bet a sackful of glyphics that plonker is hoping to do to me what we're trying to do to him. He means to overwrite my fateline with his."

Can we remove the barrier?

"We can, but it would take time we don't have. By that point, Skywatch could be a smoldering ruin.
Wait. If I were doing this, I'd focus the runic threshold at a single point. We might be able to slip under his shielding at another location."

There's another way into the sanctum?

"Exceptional inquiry, cohort. The ruins beneath the city extend out into the countryside. There's a side entrance to those ruins in a cave called Entila's Folly.
If we can reach that passage, we can enter the sanctum."

Let's get to Entila's Folly, then.

Speaking with Azandar again before leaving:

"The passage from Entila's Folly is the best chance we have of getting into my sanctum and stopping the adversary.
It's grown in power, cohort. I can already feel its ritual tugging at my fateline. Be ready for a fight."

Once you have entered the Entila's Folly delve:

Azandar: "The passage should be accessible from one of the rear chambers. Keep an eye out for a door of ancient elven style."

Talking with Azandar here:

"We must move quickly, cohort. Let's make our way to the back of the cave.
Just … ugh. Forgive me if I fight with my eyes closed. Can't stand the spiders down here."

When you arrive at the door to the back entrance:

Azandar: "Over there, half covered in vines! There's the door."

Speaking to Azandar:

"There it is. Let's get in there."

Once inside the Sanctum, you will find the Adversary in the scrying chamber:

The Adversary: "How tiresome. You've brought your companion. No matter. I am prepared."

Azandar: "Bah! I'm starting to think you're the version of me that never learned when to shut up!"

The Adversary: "Glib to the last. We will tear that out of you! And then I will take my rightful spot in your fateline!"

Speaking with Azandar before fighting the Adversary:

"Keep your eye on the adversary. Let's end this!"

During the fight the following will be said:

The Adversary: "My arcanum is supreme, counterpart!"

Azandar: "Far better than you have said as much to me!"

Azandar: "Your technique is derivative! At best!"

When you have knocked down the Adversary's health to a sufficient amount, Azandar will place the Runeform of Unmaking on him:

Azandar: "He's down! Cohort, I'll summon the Runeform of Unmaking. Use the Fateweaver Key to banish him!"

The Runeform strips the Adversary of his appearance, leaving him a red-colored frayed fate without features. However, the Adversary does not disappear.

The Adversary: "You'll never be rid of me. Not while my anchor remains!"

Azandar: "His anchor…? Mora's Eyes! The Key! The Fateweaver Key is a final anchor. We … damn it. We must destroy it."

Speaking with Azandar before destroying the Fateweaver Key:

"I cannot believe I am saying this, cohort, but you need to burn out the Fateweaver Key in the magicka font just there.
We'll never truly be rid of him as long as the relic still exists."

After burning out the key, the Adversary will be destroyed:

The Adversary: "Curse you, arcanist! Nooooooooo!"

Azandar: "I need some fresh air. And we need to dispose of the key in a fitting manner."

Azandar: "Step through the portal, if you would. I'll be right behind you."

Speaking to him before going into the portal:

"Just … just one more thing to do. Let's take the portal. It will return us to the beautiful, sun-dappled shores of the Auridon coast."

Going through the portal, you will find yourself on a cliff looking over the sea around Auridon:

"I know this must seem a bad joke … but it is not. If you do not dispose of the key in a place I cannot find it, it could prove too great a temptation.
Cast the Fateweaver Key into the depths."

Speaking with Azandar before you approach the cliff edge and throw the key:

Azandar: "I need you to throw the key from the cliff's edge into the sea. If we don't, I'll always be tempted to repair it."

You can then throw the remains of the Fateweaver Key into the ocean. Azandar will comment afterwards:

Azandar: "I will admit to a touch of … melancholy, I suppose. Much study and work went into my creation. Still, it was the right thing to do."

Speak with Azandar to complete the quest:

"Destructive doppelganger dealt with? Yes. Threat to the populace of Skywatch contained? Yes.
Decade-long research project and irreplaceable relic destroyed? Sadly, yes. I suppose it's been a good day's work."

You're certain the adversary is gone?

"I'm so certain, it would make a Sapiarch blush. You know, it's funny cohort.
I reached out to you because I firmly believed that I'd failed. In truth … the Fateweaver experiment was a smashing success!"

What do you mean?

"I set out to learn about the paths unwalked, the might-have-beens. And that's exactly what the Fateweaver Key showed us.
The adversary was a lesson unto himself! Point taken, reality. Let it never be said Azandar al-Cybiades does not listen."

How did destroying the key unbind the adversary?

"The key was the final anchor to my fateline. With the runeform applied and the Fateweaver Key destroyed, the adversary has been banished to … well.
Honestly I'm not quite sure? But I feel confident wherever he is it's deeply unpleasant."

So that's it? Your fate is no longer frayed?

"Categorically. The arcane adventure we set out upon back at Cipher's Midden is complete.
That said … if it's all right, cohort … I'd like to continue to travel at your side. The opportunities for research as your companion are endless!"

I'd like that, Azandar.

"Exceptional! Together, we've repaired my fateline, banished my adversary, and ensured the safety of the Skywatch citizenry.
I'm deeply proud to be your traveling companion, cohort. Take this. Along with the thanks of a grateful arcanist."

Leaving and returning to the conversation at this point:

"You should see the reams of parchment I've scribed about our adventures together. Endless research opportunities.
You do still want to continue our collaboration … right, cohort?"

I'd like that, Azandar. (Leads to quest completion dialogue)

After you complete the quest, you can talk to Azandar some more before leaving:

"If you'd asked me how the experiment would end … I never would have guessed. Somewhere, far away, I can almost hear old Mora himself laughing at my expense.
Pretentious squidfaced librarian."

It's done, then? The experiment is over?

"Without a doubt. I've realized that the experiment was just a shortcut to the acquisition of knowledge. Instead, I'll have to acquire erudition the old-fashioned way.
Traveling with you, cohort? That will take no time at all."

How long did you work on the Fateweaver Key?

"Oh, a very long time. While the core idea blossomed in the depths of that Dwemer complex, the twisting nature of fate has been on my mind since I was a child.
The Fateweaver Key was my magnum opus, the summation of my time as an arcanist."

Do you think you'd ever try to recreate it?

"No, I don't think so. My fateline has been shaped by our time together. Our imbroglios and carousals are far too entertaining.
And as is the nature of fate, I'm a different person than I was before I made the Key. That time in my life has passed."

Why do you think the adversary did what he did?

"I have given that a great deal of thought. The adversary was a dark and twisted mirror. I'm forced to face the truth that … well.
There but for the grace of Mora go I. The bitterness in his heart dwells within me as well."

What made you different from him, then?

"You recall the three anchors we destroyed to create the Rune of Unmaking? They were representative of moments in my life tied to him.
Imagine if Nilvon's bitterness had infected me. Or if I'd grown hateful after Shad Astula?"

So those moments represent how you could have become the Adversary?

"That's my best guess. The nature of fate is such that it's impossible to tell. But he was me. And I am him. Let my adversary be a lesson to us both. That our choices define us, eh?
Here's hoping we both make choices that shape us for the better."

What's next for Azandar al-Cybiades?

"Well, more perambulations with you, I expect. I'm taking copious notes. Part travel diary, part research treatise.
I'm sure one day soon these old bones will be too frail to continue our escapades. Then … hah! The papers I shall write."

Thanks for the talk, Azandar. (Ends Conversation)

Chronicle of Fate[edit]

If you have previously assisted Azandar, he will be attending the gathering at the Cipher's Hall:

"You're the talk of the realm, cohort!
As always, I'm exquisitely pleased that we had the opportunity to work together."

There are plenty more adventures ahead of us.

"Well said! And you can count on me for every one."

He will be one of the voices to support you during Scruut's speech:

Azandar al-Cybiades: "They assisted me with the Fateweaver experiment!"

Necrom Main Quest Commentary[edit]

If you have Azandar accompany you for the following quests, he will have comments at the conclusion:

Quest	Azandar's Commentary
Keeper of the Fate	"Peryite worshippers are the lowest of the loathsome. Superlative work, cohort."
Fate's Lost Dream	"I'm using every iota of restraint not to beg Mora to know what's in that Vault. I'm a professional, you see."
Spirit of Fate	"If I had a coin for every ambitious idiot that went insane trying to decipher a Black Book I could pay for my own research! Hah!""
Fate's Proxy	"Key, Rite, and Door. And a name, Torvesard. I love a good mystery!"
A Hidden Fate	"That Torvesard has even succeeded to this extent is astonishing. What might the Fateweaver Key see among his loci, I wonder?"
Conclave of Fate	"Shelreni's fate is precisely why I've kept my relationship with Hermaeus Mora at tentacle's length. Daedric princes are wells of fathomless power ... right up until they are very much not. And then you die."
A Calamity of Fate	—
An Unhealthy Fate	"To have been able to play a role in restoring Apocrypha to constancy ... it's more than this scholar could ever have hoped for. Peerless as always. Peerless."
Chronicle of Fate	"A ... forgotten Prince! An entire Daedric Prince! Heretofore unknown by the academic community! And thanks to our current circumstances, I can't write a paper about it? Truly, my meddling in fate has cursed me!" (After speaking with Hermaeus Mora)
Chronicle of Fate	"To think, my colleague is now eternally listed in a codex that sits within Mora's personal library. And I, Azandar al-Cybiades played a part in the tale. Hah! Now, what say we get some celebratory tea?" (Completing Quest)

Companion Dialogue[edit]

Much of Azandar's companion dialogue with you will depend on your current Rapport with him. The following sections list his known dialogue:

Greetings[edit]

When you talk with him, you can do the following:

Access the Companion Menu and customize his abilities etc.
Ask how he feels about you.
Ask about him.

Greetings
Cordial-Friendly	Allied-Companion	Wary-Disdainful
"Hmm? Yes?"	"I am familiar with that expression. Something's up."	"Are we done here?"
"You wish to engage in badinage?"	"What can an arcanist do for you today?"	"What? What? What?"
"Collaborator. Confrere. Companion?"	"New research awaits! Let's ruminate."	"Your coin keeps me here, nothing more."
"Speak. I'm listening."	"What can we learn today?"	"Let me return to my own research."
"Ah! Yes. I'm here."	"An opportunity for cogitation? Let's get into it."	"You have ceased to interest me. Speak."

"Let's talk about our partnership."[edit]

With this option, you can ask about his feelings towards you and about himself:

(at "Cordial / Friendly" rapport)"

"Mm-hmm."
"Yes, certainly."

(at "Close / Allied / Companion" rapport)

"A pleasant distraction. Of course."
"For you cohort? Any time."

(at "Wary / Irritated / Disdainful" rapport)

"^(?)"

How do you feel about our friendship? (Cordial to Companion)
Cordial/Friendly	Close	Allied	Companion
"Favorably. Why? Do you have cause to think otherwise?"	"Cordial. Engaging. Jocular? Intellectually stimulating!"	"I'd happily make you a cup of tea."	"The fact that you've endured my presence this long means you're stuck with me. You have my deepest apologies."
"Early days yet in this collaboration. But I have high hopes, cohort!"	"I would describe our collaboration as genial. I hope you do as well."	"I believe, in the fullness of time, only Martina was as close a collaborator. You're in rare company."	"I've become very accustomed to your presence, and you hardly irritate me at all."
"I've had many collaborators over the years. And you are one of them."	"To this point, I have had no reason to regret our collaboration."	"You are peerless, cohort. I feel privileged to be your companion."	"I am uncomfortable expressing the level of appreciation I have for you in my life. I hope you can respect that. You... you're great."
"Tentatively optimistic. I believe we can accomplish much together, you and I."	"An ongoing project. Further study is required, but I'm enjoying the process."
Let's talk about something else. (Returns to Greetings)

How do you feel about our relationship? (Wary to Disdainful)^{[verification needed — dialogue needs to be confirmed]}
Wary	Irritated	Disdainful^{Red end of the bar}
"You've given me cause for concern. Reconsider your actions in the future."	"Let's keep the chatter to a minimum, if you don't mind."	"We are not friends. Please cease your prattle."
"We still have much to do, but I'd ask you be more considerate of my boundaries."	"We are cohorts, of course. But your lack of respect has me on guard."	"I honestly am unsure why we still collaborate."
Let's talk about something else. (Returns to Greetings)

Tell me something about yourself.
"I hate... for lack of a more scholarly term... icky creatures. You know, stink monsters like ogres, harpies, trolls. And do not get me started on the likes of dreugh, chaurus, or... mudcrabs. Those tiny pincers. Those beady eyes. Nightmare fuel!"
"I am a scholar. I drink tea. Please, whatever you do, avoid making or drinking coffee around me. The smell is most discommodious to me. Consume hot and bitter bean water on your own time."
"Though the Antiquarian Circle itself bores me to tears, seeking out antiquities is thoroughly compelling! Scrying, procuring leads for rare and difficult to find treasures. It engages both my mind and my constitution!"
"I need more books! Papers! Research! Anything and everything written down. If you see it, grab it. We can apologize later."
"While we're together I'd ask that you avoid Artaeum and Eyevea. Not only are they bastions of pompous, narrow-minded, fetid-mouthed halfwits but erm … it's possible I may not be on the best of terms with a few of their Archmagi."
"Nothing gives me greater glee... no, well, I take that back. Few things give me greater glee than stealing from the Psijic Order. Nab as many of their incantatum as you can from those highfaluting portals. Jubilance!"
"I'm enthralled by Aurbisal conjunctions! I believe lay people call them portals. Specifically those seen in Blackwood and the Deadlands, or the bizarre juxtapositions on the Telvanni Peninsula and Apocrypha. Lead me to them!"
"I have a new interest! Ayleid wells and Mundus stones. They draw together arcanum in unexpected, anfractuous, even devious ways. I require more hands-on study and I require it now."
"Well as you know, I'm always looking to fund our research. I hear people pay good coin for a little enchanting expertise these days. Writs, you know? With our combined acumen, we could accrue investments ad infinitum!"
"I'm currently seeking new research opportunities. I hear the Ordinators out of Necrom are looking for assistance clearing dungeons both in the region and in Apocrypha. Could be fruitful!"
Let's talk about something else. (Returns to Greetings)

Responses[edit]

As a companion, Azandar will remark on various situations during your travels.

When summoned:

"And now: adventure!"
"Arcanist here."
"What will we learn today?"
"I'm here. What's next?"
"I'm here, and I'm feeling feisty!"
"Ah, cohort!"
"A fated arrival."
"Arrival. Anticipation."
"Let the research begin!"

When you are idle:

"You have most likely noticed, but all my life I have erm. Struggled. With communication, commiseration. My intellect is attuned to a frequency all its own. But you seem to appreciate this. And thus, I appreciate you."
"My focus tends to shift a bit, over time. Is that your experience as well? Previous interests have included life prolongation, deep-aether travel, the history of the Imperial Battlemages, and the culinary legacy of chef Orzorga."
"On reflection, I wish I'd had the chance to repair my relationship with Martina before she died. Back then, it seemed logical to conclude our collaboration. It no longer served either of us. But ... perhaps something more was lost, as well."
"I'm reminded, for some damnable reason, of my parents today. It might be hyperbole to say they regretted having me. But it might not. Luckily they have my older brother to carry on the family name."
"I became an arcanist when my tome 'bit' me. It's true! I was running my hand along a shelf in a secondhand shop in Sentinel when the damned thing nipped my finger. Good thing it did, too. I would have made a lousy guild apprentice."
"I know many of my arcanomystically inclined colleagues eschew the simple pleasures of preparing a meal. But I find it very soothing. It also proved a steady source of income over the years, when realm traveling genius was not paying very well."
"Ahh. I could go for some tea. Do you have a particular favorite? I like some of the rarer varietals, like Thrassian or Pyandonean. But the simple sweetness of Pink Profundity is a mainstay I will return to time and time again."
"I've never understood reading books for fun. I know some consider it a pleasant distraction, but for me every book is a battlefield. An arena where my intellect can be honed. A new territory to be conquered!"

When Azandar levels up:

"Enlightenment! Progress!"
"Ah, newfound understanding! And with it: power."

When you level up or gain a Champion Point:

"Your accomplishments just compound, one upon the other."
"Mora has his eyes on you. I can feel it."
"I'm taking notes on your progress, just so you're aware. Galvanizing!"
"Hah! Your search for knowledge continues."

When starting combat:

"I am a scholar, damn it!"
"I'm still feisty!"
"By Mora's many eyes!"
"(snarky laughter)"
"Dullards!"
"Your fate is sealed!"
"Perhaps a tactical approach."
"And now: Violence!"
"A divergence point, hah!"
"I'm feeling hostility!"
"Make better choices!"
"They want a fight, do they?"
"If we must!"
"Onward and upward!"
"Focus your intellect!"
"Confound it!"

When ending combat:

"Mora's twitching tentacles, I'm glad that's done."
"Going to need a moment. I'm not a young man."
"And: Tranquility."
"A most gratifying resolution."
"And that's done. What's next?"
"(old man noise)"
"Heh. We have an accord."
"That was intellectually stimulating."
"Any more? I need some tea."
"Hostilities ended. Now to relax."
"Ah. Time for tea, then."
"(Pleased laughter)"
"Bah, to Apocrypha with you."
"(amused cackle)"
"You are interrupting scholarship!"

When starting a boss fight:

"I think this one wants a ruckus!"
"Loathsome!"

When defeating a boss:

"Have to write a paper on that someday."
"Excellent! But we can always do better."
"Much to learn from that one."

When killing a mudcrab:

"Yes! Chop off their claws!"
"Vermin extermination. Hah!"
"Disgusting creatures."
"More, More! Kill the disgusting things."
"Yech, Good riddance."

When killing a harpy:

"It died like it lived. In feathers and foulness. Yech."
"Ugh. Don't throw up. Don't throw up."

When killing a troll:

"Big stink. Even bigger corpse."

When killing an ogre:

"Malodorous! Appalling! Nauseating!"

When completing a World Event:

"I like your tireless zeal. Hah!"

Completing a Dark Fissure:

"I'll give you notes later, cohort."

Completing an Oblivion Portal:

"Dagon's realm is unpleasant in the extreme. But this was an excellent opportunity for empiric research."
"I have enough notes from this extra-planar excursion to write a paper and a half. At least. Exquisite."
"And: quietude. Or as best as we can get here. Let's gather our plunder and scoot."

When starting a Dragonscour:

"Clearly brutality is the only option here!"
"Distressing. Most distressing!"
"I am extremely flammable!"
"Zounds, that's a big lizard!"

When completing a Dragonscour:

"An opportunity for erudition! Hah!"
"From legendary scourge to pile of meat. Hmph!"
"I could write a dozen papers no one will ever read on that beast."
"If you find a dripping pellet of crushed material, hang onto it. Quite valuable."

When Azandar is low on health:

"Agitation! Laceration! Wounded!"
"My vigor wanes!"
"My next wound could be fatal!"
"I'm wounded, and not a young man!"
"Ah, losing vitae here!"

When Azandar is healed out of critical health:

"Appreciate the top-up!"

When Azandar is resurrected:

When you are low on health:

"Heal your trauma!"
"You're losing vitae!"
"Tend to that laceration!"
"You seem knackered!"

When seeing an ally die:

"Reject necrosis! Rise to the occasion!"
"Our research isn't over yet. Get up!"
"Tell Arkay to take a hike. Don't die!"
"Aetherius can wait!"
"Inexcusable! You're needed here!"

When you are crowd controlled:

"Move! Now! Please!"
"Traverse that impediment!"
"Increase your mobility!"
"Get free, posthaste!"

When successfully interrupting an enemy:

"Superlative!"
"Tremendous!"

When Azandar uses the Crimson Font skill:

"A peerless duo!"
"Together!"

When Azandar uses an ultimate:

"(unleashed power shout)"
"Ruinous Ebullition!"
"Tentaculus Eruptum!"

When you use an ultimate:

"Majestic!"
"Breathtaking!"
"You make a formidable ally!"

When you kill a passive creature:

"Did that creature offend you somehow?"
"Hmph. Seems a waste of time."

When entering a city or town:

"Perhaps we can complete a writ or two on our down time. Hmm?"
"Planning to improve your equipment while we're here? Smart."
"Keep your eyes open for a good tea shop. Always happy to try a new blend."

When entering Skywatch:

"The jewel of Auridon! And home to my favorite research lab!"
"Zeht's tears, I hope we don't see Telenger while we're here. That man is insufferable."
"Erm, let's avoid the Mages Guild while we're here if you don't mind. Soothsayer Erralle and I have... history."

When entering Kozanset:

"Ah, Kozanset. My family is most likely not in town, but let's not go out of our way to find them. Agreed?"

When entering Kozanset:

"The architecture is exquisite, true. But try finding spellthread on short notice and you'll see why Sentinel and I do not get along."

When entering Leyawiin:

"Ahh, smell that air. I've been here many a time. Where to?"
"Martina and I worked closely together here in our early, experimental days. Fond memories."
"Sage advice: avoid that sweet roll mead Sirirenna pushes at the Kaladas Inn. Yech."

When entering the Hollow City, Fargrave, or the Brass Fortress:

"The cultural research opportunities in extra-Nirn settlements like this are … well. Incalculable!"
"Do we have time to interrogate some of the locals? Think of the mystic quandaries we could resolve!"
"Someday I'd like to do a research paper on the mercantile ecosystem of cities like this. Where do the goods come from? And where do they go?"
"Is there a tea shop here? Can you imagine the exotic herbal blends we could procure here?"
"This disjunction of the Daedric realms is extremely harrowing. But! It will make for several interesting papers."^{[verification needed — Is this in Fargrave or somewhere else?]}

When entering a Mages Guild building, Artaeum or Eyevea:

"These mages are all the same. Vainglorious and sophomoric. Spell artisans of the lowest order."
"Please, can we be away from here as quickly as possible? I'd like to retain the current number of apertures in my skull."
"There are people here that would see me quite cadaverous! Deceased. Demised!"

When near a delve:

"Peerless, perhaps we'll discover something new here!"
"Eyes open. Books, letters, scrolls, tomes … you know what I'm after."
"Inwards and downwards!"
"Always nice to discover a new smell, I suppose."

When near a striking locale:

"It's pleasant when the environmental and geographic elements of a locus are so … neat."
"Quite the memorable locale. Delightful."
"What a novel setting. Might want to come back here, some day."
"Interesting place. I'll take some notes. And try not to gawp."
"How stimulating. Look at this place."

When you loot a chest:

"Ah, spiffing! More coin for your purse."
"Coin! Plunder! Commerce!"
"More funding for our research!"
"Libations are on you next time. Hah!"

When you loot an Epic item or better:

"Accumulate wealth and smile all the while."
"Fate must be smiling."
"A premium asset!"
"The value of that … hah!"
"An unanticipated windfall!"

When you get a Legendary item:

"Tantalizing! Marvelous! Truly glorious!"
"Breathtaking! Extraordinary! How esteemed!"

When you loot a ritual object or magic curiosity treasure:

"After a cursory assessment, I'm most intrigued!"
"I'm no expert in trinket valuation, but I know magic!."
"Before you resolve the economic value of this item, might I have a chance to examine it?"

Pointing out a heavy sack:

"Might be something to aid your craft, there."
"Can you use that in your craft?"
"Hmm. Might be valuable."
"You see that? Could be useful."

Looting a heavy sack:

"A most auspicious find."
"Fortuitous!"
"A prosperous discovery."
"Hmm, well? What did you get?"

Harvesting a node:

"Someday you'll make something surprising with that."
"Another chance at perfection."
"Hmm. Good find, cohort."
"Quality material makes for quality goods."
"Hmm, we can use this."

Looting a Psijic portal:

"Hah! Better to be in our hands than lining the chests of those Psijic cretins."
"We'll make good use of these resources! Far better than those asinine Artaeum archmages."
"(amused old man cackle)"

Harvesting a mushroom:

"Ugh. Dirt fungus."
"Eww. Be sure to wash your hands."
"Distasteful."

When lighting a campfire for Lightbringer:

"My inclination is to be more watchful."

When giving money to a beggar for Give to the Poor:

"Was that prudent?"
"Hmm."

When getting on a mount:

"(clearing his throat, annoyed)"
"If we must."
"We can't take a portal?"
"(old man noises)"
"Ow, ow, ow."
"How do you drive this thing?"
"(disgruntled grumble)"

When getting on a multi-rider mount:

"How pleasant. Drive on, cohort."
"I'll let you take the reins. Happily."
"Ah. This is kind of nice, actually."

When you interact with an Ayleid well:

"There's an old theory saying these wells marked lines of magical power. Most modern researchers hold this idea in contempt, but I believe there may be some truth to this notion. More research is indicated."
"But why … wells? The meteoric iron lining the heart of these installations is exceedingly rare. Of all the shapes they could have forged, why this one?"
"Look up, cohort. Most researchers believe meteoric iron wells emit mystic power back to the sky. Purely for religious purposes? Or is that energy … I don't know … going somewhere?"

When near a Mundus stone:

"The magecrafter's trick of lining a piece of armor with sapphires would be humorous folly, if it wasn't so demonstrably effective. Why sapphires? What is it about that gem that focuses the aetheric zephyrs?"
"Standing stones exist all across Tamriel, and regional scholars have chosen to affiliate them with regional concepts. For example, some stones in Cyrodiil are mythically aligned with former Emperors."
"Ahh. Can you feel it? The aetherial currents swirl here with unrealized potential. Most likely drawn by the stone itself."

When you read a book:

"Let it sit with you. Novel erudition always makes me heady."
"Hmph. Derivative."
"Ah, anything interesting?"

When you discover a new lead:

"Zounds, a new lead! Let's get after it, cohort!"
"Like a hound on a scent, we're on the move. History is our prey."
"Ah, a new lead! The pursuit is on! Wisdom awaits!"

When you scry for a lead:

"Ahh, what a novel approach. Enthralling to get a peek inside your mind."
"Hmm. Sublime technique there."
"Masterfully done! Couldn't have done it better myself."

When near a cooking fire:

"Ahh, very nice. Good to settle my old bones for a bit."
"This is pleasant. Now we just need to brew up some tea."

When you learn a Provisioning recipe:

"Palatable. Delicious? Perhaps scrumptious."
"Oh, that sounds delicious. I'd be happy to taste test it for you."
"Hmm. I'm not sure that's to my taste but I bet you'll make it well."

When you craft a Tea Beverage provisioning item:

"Spectacular scent profile. I would savor every note. Well done."
"What was your intent with the flavor profile there? Hmm, may have room for improvement."
"Ahhh, yes. Breath in the herbal bouquet."'

When you craft a provisioning item with coffee as an ingredient:

"Ugh. Bean stink."
"I can taste the beanwater at the back of my throat."

When you consume a Tea Beverage:

"Savor that, cohort. Every cup is a new and singular experience."
"How would you describe that bouquet? Clean? Bright? Zesty? Use your words."
"What do you think of that blend? Curious about your predilections."

When you consume a provisioning item with coffee as an ingredient:

"Ahh, coffee. Tastes like the brine of Apocrypha."
"Yes, much better than a nice herbal blend. Surely."
"You're sure you wouldn't like some delicious tea?"

When you improve a piece of gear to Gold quality:

"Exemplary! Mythical! Phenomenal!"
"A superlative act of craftsmanship. Exceptional skill. And an eye for detail! Hah!"

Completing a Tales of Tribute match:

"As a scholar of fate, I can assure you our time could be better spent than playing some card game."
"A game? Cohort, we have research to do."
"Surely you have better things you could do with your time?"

Completing a Necrom delve daily quest:

"Fascinating academic material. I took rigorous notes, don't worry."
"Memorable. Confrontational? Thought-provoking."
"Peerless work. If I publish a paper about this experience, do you want co-credit?"
"That was quite compelling. I'll need time to organize my research."

After turning in a daily enchanting writ:

"Unsurpassed. Our research into thaumaturgical infusion is coming along nicely."
"I sometimes wonder what becomes of our enchantment efforts. Hmm."
"Resources acquired, and our understanding of arcane imbuement enhanced. A good day's work."

After turning in an enchanting Master Writ:

"Masterful work! The fundament of the Aurbis is yours to command, it would seem."
"To align runes that powerful takes a resolute hand and a steadfast disposition. Peerless."
"Your scholarship in the realm of enchantment is second to none. We are true colleagues."

After selecting the Cipher's Eye Pocket Watcher or Apocryphal Bookwyrm pets:

"This creature serves Apocrypha. Why are you here? Speak, damn you!"
"A servant of Mora. Is it here to keep tabs on me? Speak, minion."

After selecting the Vvardvark pet:

"What a well-formed aberration! Delightful in its symmetry! And look at the way its little nose twitches. Heh!"
"A Vvardvark! Magical advancement in its most adorable, cuddly form. Look at those ears!"

Furnishing[edit]

Azandar al-Cybiades has always known he was meant for greatness. Every twist and turn on his path to arcanist power was done with clear eyes and a convivial attitude. Call this companion to your side and undertake an eldritch adventure into the unknown!

Azandar al-Cybiades

You will earn the ability to have him as a houseguest once you've completed Tempting Fates.

Houseguest Dialogue[edit]

After completing the Tempting Fates quest, you will receive Azandar al-Cybiades as a houseguest. When placed within your home, he will say one of the following lines when spoken with:

"Beyond runes and the cookpot my crafting skills are somewhat limited, but I have a great deal of admiration for those who can hone a sword or stitch a shirt. Perfection is a lofty peak, but it's worth the climb."
"Quite a blissful environment here. Not quite sure how I would have decorated the place, but it's … mmm. Yes. Nice."
"If Vanus Galerion or Loremaster Celarus ever come looking for me, please attempt to fabricate some believable deception. Perhaps I've gone out to buy tea. That seems plausible. And if either of them ask? I have no clue where the Oracular Lorgnon is!"
"My older brother was in the Fighters Guild. Imagine the contrast between us! He was wounded fighting were-vultures, or some damned thing, and came home to a hero's welcome. I was quite acerbic about the whole experience, I'll be honest."
"Have you ever been swimming in the abyssal sea? That great inky expanse that stretches out across apocrypha? I can't recommend it. Cold, and all kinds of things slipping past your legs. But it certainly is bracing!"
"I was just thinking of Martina Abor, my old colleague. We used to make a little game of positing the strangest notion we could think of, and then attempting to defend it from rigorous valuation. We would laugh and laugh. Ahh."
"Cooking a good meal is a way I can exert some control over my environment, calm the mind. Each recipe is a little agenda, you see? You set out your ingredients, plan your time, and delicious food is summoned from the incantation. Most reassuring."
"My time touring the Daedric realms brought me to Coldharbour, hoping to learn something of note at the Library of Dusk. They make it quite difficult to learn anything of value, but I persevered. And walked away with fascinating secrets."
"The benighted realm of Nocturnal is actually quite lively if you know where to look. I managed to procure an invitation to a Blackfeather Court soiree some years ago and it was an intense experience. Took me weeks to regain feeling in my face. Hmm."
"I find tea-making quite meditative, you know. Calms the mind. Heating the water, placing the bag. Sugar or milk, or not. Helps me to focus."
"The tome speaks to us, you know. Not with words. At least, not for me. Hmm, that would be quite interesting. But it certainly communicates, shifting content and context, showing us what we need to know. And things we absolutely should not. Heh."
"I'm considering an unorthodox theory about Ayleid Wells. What if the power they reroute back towards the heavens is being collected somewhere … by someone? The scholars all agree no mortal beings live on Akatosh or Arkay. But what if?"
"The first time I left Nirn was quite the adventure! I was still refining my control of the tome, still aligning myself with Apocrypha's might. Thankfully, my accidental-inaugural portal took me to Fargrave. Or we might not be chatting here today."
"Being an arcanist can be quite … disconcerting. Tentacles and eldritch runes, the waters of the abyssal sea rushing around in your head every once in a while. But it's worth it, a bargain well struck. For power and self-sufficiency."
"I worked a number of jobs as a cook before my tome found me. The most memorable? Hubalajad Palace. The head chef quit the night of an enormous banquet! I took command of a ragtag crew and we served a thousand people. Still a moment I remember fondly."
"My sanctum in Skywatch was a bit of a coup. I convinced the local Mages Guild that there were dire threats to the city down in those old ruins. Hah! A bit of a jape, but it's certainly come in handy over the years."
"Tea can be a stimulant, of course. But I find the buzz you experience with a nice Aetherial or Spiceberry quite pleasant. Whereas coffee is like a million gnats dancing within your mind. No thank you."
"I'm aware that I can appear … fussy. Avoiding mushrooms and coffee and harpies and bugs. You have to understand, when it comes to unpleasant scents and sensations, my mind refuses to filter. Obstinate lump of meat. But quite handy sometimes, too."
"Of all the places beyond the good old Mundus, I believe Fargrave might be my favorite. Filled with unique individuals to talk to, surrounded by massive and mysterious corpses. And the food at the House of Whims? Pure luxury!"

Additional lines if your character completed Tempting Fates:

"I took extensive notes based on our experiences with the adversary, all in service to future research. If one of my fatelines can skew so drastically away from my own path, what does that say about the nature of choice and chance? Galvanizing!"
"Perhaps someday I'll perfect my research, and understand fate in the way that Hermaeus Mora does. In any case, I've decided my failure is its own kind of epiphany. After all, without my misadventure we never would have met!"

Additional lines if your character completed Chronicle of Fate:

"I still cannot get over it. An ancient secret. An entire Daedric Prince culled from every mind in existence. And I'm here sitting on my quill. Just goes to show that sagacity and intellect are not the same thing. Confound it!"

Correspondence[edit]

Once you complete the The Consummate Cohort achievement with Azandar al-Cybiades, he will soon send you a letter along with the Abyssal Tea Set.

Salutations and Sanity
Seeing beyond my own fateline was extraordinary, a rare and precious gift. As has your friendship, which has has a profound impact along a number of axes. My isolationist tendencies, my hyperfixation on arcane minutia, my rampant ear-hair. In celebration of this happy perturbation of my life, I have procured for you a small offertory knick-knack. I contracted with a friend in Sentinel to make the included tea set, inscribed with specific arcanist runes and Apocryphal symbology. It should make exceptional brews and improve your long term health. Theoretically Your colleague, - Azandar al-Cybiades

Notes[edit]

He has a Meet the Character entry.
His last name is a reference to the Athenian statesman and general Alcibades.

Gallery[edit]

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