Online:Sun-in-Shadow

Sun-in-Shadow (lore page)
Home City	Sadrith Mora
Race	Argonian	Gender	Female
Health	39,959 15,000 (In the council chamber/Meeting with Angharal Sul/In her home/In Tel Aruhn/During "The Heart of a Telvanni")
Reaction	Friendly
Other Information
Faction(s)	House Telvanni (Joins during questline)

Sun-in-Shadow

Sun-in-Shadow as a Telvanni mage.

Sun-in-Shadow is an Argonian slave in Sadrith Mora. She aspires to become a mage of House Telvanni.

Related Quests

• A Hireling of House Telvanni: Help Sun-in-Shadow earn her freedom.
• Rising to Retainer: Help Sun-in-Shadow become a Retainer.
• Objections and Obstacles: Help Sun-in-Shadow become an Oathman.
• The Magister Makes a Move: Help Sun-in-Shadow deal with the fallout of her actions against Ralasa.
• The Heart of a Telvanni: Help Sun-in-Shadow with her fracturing relationship with Eoki.
• Divine Blessings: Help Lord Vivec reward those who assisted in restoring his divine power. (Conditional)

Quest-Related Events

Prior to A Hireling of House Telvanni, Sun-in-Shadow doesn't exist in the game.

A Hireling of House Telvanni

You'll initially find her sweeping in the tower, Tel Naga in Sadrith Mora:

"Yes? Can I help you, serjo?"

Sun-in-Shadow? Eoki sent me.

"Bless his eyes. Yes, I'm Sun-in-Shadow. Eoki told you I have a plan to earn our freedom, right? It will require finesse and discretion. I trust that I can count on you for both.
To earn my freedom, I need the help of Magister Therana."

Magister Therana?

"She's a recently elevated Telvanni magister. Not so set in her ways as the others, and probably more likely to remember her early struggles.
I know she wants something from Zaintiraris. I need to find out what it is, then get it for her."

Do you have any idea what she wants?

"I'm afraid not. I traded in some favors to get a better idea of what she's seeking, but I learned very little. Apparently, her Mouth, Eraven Onthim, has some correspondence that might give us a clue.
I need that letter."

(if Argonian) Argonians aren't chattel. You should already be free, like me.

"You sound like Eoki. I'm an Argonian, true. But I'm also Telvanni, as were my parents. The Hist can't help us here. We must count on our wits.
I've studied spellcraft since before I could lift a broom. All I need now is the sponsorship of a magister."

(if non-Argonian) You can earn your freedom?

"Oh yes! House Telvanni has its warts, but it's a true meritocracy. With enough guile and cunning even a lowly slave can sit on the council!
I've studied spellcraft since before I could lift a broom. All I need now is the sponsorship of a magister."

How do you earn the magister's approval?

"Therana's been haranguing the Council—trying to get their help in claiming Zaintiraris from House Redoran. She wants something in that shrine. I aim to get it for her.
Her Mouth, Eraven Onthim, has a letter that contains the clues we need."

I'll try to get the information for you.

"Be cautious in the Council House, sera. House Telvanni is not just some beast you can slay. In this place, subtlety will serve you better than any shield.
We have to play the game."

You've told me how this plan helps you, but how does it help Eoki?

"Truthfully? It doesn't. Not yet.
Telvanni plots take time to develop. If I demand Eoki's freedom too early, I show my hand. Suddenly, he's a valuable piece in the game—moved and sacrificed as the magisters see fit."

So you're protecting him by keeping him in chains?

"Do I sense a rebuke? It's not ideal, I know.
Look, I treasure Eoki. He's placed his trust in me. I hope you'll do the same."

How did you and Eoki meet?

"Ah. It was during one of his many escape attempts.
I was cleaning Master Otheri's tableware when Eoki burst through the kitchen door, dragging his chains behind him. He threw open the window and started to climb through it … then he saw me."

And?

"He hesitated—even smiled. You don't see Marsh slaves smile much. Certainly not when they're being chased by nix-hounds.
They dragged him off and threw him in the dry-box. He told me he'd spend a year in there if it meant seeing me again."

You two seem pretty different.

"There's an old alchemist's proverb. "No reaction is ever so forceful as the mixing of opposing components." A mouthful, I know, but it fits.
Eoki and I occupy different poles on the same sphere. He keeps me grounded. I keep him safe."

Retrieve the letter and she'll say:

"There you are. I was afraid you'd been compromised.
Were you successful? Did Onthim have anything worth reading?"

Therana wants a relic hidden away in Zaintiraris.

"May I?
Ah, a saint's relic. Saint Felms? Never heard of him. Hmm, says here the Redoran want it too—to squirrel away in some musty old chapel, no doubt. We need to make sure Therana gets it before they do."

How do you propose we do that?

"Looks like the shrine is locked, protected by some puzzle-ward. Luckily, the letter provides some hints on how to break in.
Solve the puzzle, grab the relic, then make haste to Tel Branora. Therana should be there. Offer her the relic on my behalf."

How confident are you that Therana will trade the relic for her sponsorship?

"Somewhere between certain and apprehensive? The Telvanni respect all clever schemes and love to barter. This little intrigue will prove my worth, I know it.
Then again, she could just try to take the relic by force."

What then?

"Run? Telvanni magisters wield magicks that put Julianos to shame.
Of course, you're quite the hero in your own right. Hopefully it doesn't come to that."

Speaking to her again before leaving:

"Do be careful in Zaintiraris. The Mad God put his fingerprints all over that place. I … we've got a lot riding on you."

Sun-in-Shadow bows before the council

"Sun-in-Shadow, you are hereby freed and lifted up to the rank of hireling."

When next you meet, she'll be in the Council Chambers in Tel Naga:

"I've imagined this moment since I was a hatchling. I knew I'd be free eventually, but now that the moment's here … I just hope I don't embarrass myself."

What will the council do?

"They'll deliberate, needle each other a bit, then set me free. I only hope that they take me on as a hireling as well. I'll even get my own quarters. Can you imagine that? Not only my own room, a whole house to myself.
My heart is racing!"

If you're a hireling, will you be able to leave? I thought you were headed to Black Marsh.

"Yes, of course. I mean, eventually. We can talk about that later. Just let me bask in this moment, all right?"

As you wish.

If you exit the dialogue at this point and talk to her again:

"If only my parents were here …. Do you see mother? There's nothing your Sun-in-Shadow cannot achieve! "

The council is waiting.

"Truly, I couldn't have done this without you and Eoki. A plan is only as useful as the people who carry it out. You have my deepest thanks, sera.
Now … I suppose it's time!"

Rising to Retainer

You can initiate the quest by speaking to either Eoki or Sun-in-Shadow. If you speak to Sun-in-Shadow first, she'll say:

"A hireling! Can you believe it?
Not much of a title, I know, but I've spent a lifetime earning it."

What will you do next?

"I'll burn these rags, polish my scales, and work even harder.
The next few days are critical—I can't afford any slip-ups. Magisters circle new hirelings like cliff racers. If they see any sign of weakness, they swoop in and pick the bones clean."

What about Eoki? Can you free him now?

"Not yet, no. Like I said, even the smallest mistake could spell disaster. It's still too early.
I can't say more—not here, anyway. Too many listening ears. Meet me in my new quarters, all right? I have a plan that might speed things along."

I'll come by when I can.

Speaking to her again:

"You go ahead. I think I'll linger here a while. Who knows when they'll let me back in."

She'll now go to her home, or if you started the quest with Eoki, he'll direct you to her there. Speak to her in her home, and she'll tell you:

"Welcome, sera. Sorry about the mess. Believe it or not, this place feels like a palace compared to my old slave quarters.
With any luck, I won't stay here long. I've hatched a plan that might catapult me to the rank of House retainer!"

What's the plan?

"I'm glad you asked!
Retrieving scrolls and relics, gathering up roots and mushrooms—that's what the Magisters expect from hirelings. Trust me when I say nothing stunts advancement like doing the expected."

So how do you plan to defy their expectations?

"Real estate. Surprised? Good.
Master Firuth's been making secret inquiries—looking for land near Vos. Eoki knows a farmer who may be willing to sell his plot. If I purchase the deed and give it to Firuth, he might sponsor my next promotion."

I'll look into it.

"I knew I could count on you. Here's the gold. I'll not pay a drake more than what's in that pouch … mostly because I don't have a drake more than what's in that pouch.
Eoki can provide more details, or you can just ask around Vos yourself."

How's life as a free woman?

"Fantastic! I bought new clothes, see? And no more sharing a room with eight other people. This space belongs to me. It's mine.
Best of all, I can stop hiding. I don't have to tuck my tomes under blankets or hide scrolls in my bodice. I can just be."

As a hireling, do you still work for the Magisters?

"Of course. Everyone works for the Magisters in one way or another.
Hirelings occupy the lowest rung on the ladder, aside from slaves of course. But we can earn a wage and study in peace. We can even refuse a task, if we wish. It's remarkable!"

You seemed fairly independent even before you were made a hireling.

"I enjoyed more freedom than most, it's true. Most of the marsh-born slaves hated me for it. Called me "smoke-scale," "elf-heart" … and much, much worse.
But, that's all behind me now. I won."

You won?

"I harnessed my ambition, served my masters with loyalty and discretion and earned my freedom. They whine like belly-sick guars and rot in chains. It doesn't get any clearer than that."

How goes the plan to free Eoki?

"I told you before, these things take time. I can't simply buy him because hirelings aren't allowed to own slaves—and I can't just set him free without jeopardizing my position in the House.
This requires patience and an overabundance of caution."

Who owns him currently?

"Archmagister Otheri. None of the other Magisters would have him. Too many escape attempts.
Then there's the matter of his magical aptitude. The Telvanni abhor Hist-magic and make him wear suppression manacles all the time … even when he sleeps."

If you removed the manacles, could he use his magic to escape?

"Doubtful. Hist magic doesn't operate by the same rules as Telvanni spellcraft. I think that's why the Magisters hate it so much.
I can't say for certain, but I doubt there's anything in Eoki's repertoire that could get him out of Sadrith Mora."

Why does Master Firuth want this land near Vos?

"From what I gather, he wants to build a new tower there. I've no idea why. Mistress Dratha essentially owns Vos, and I can tell you, she does not welcome intruders.
If I was mad enough to antagonize one of the Magisters, it would not be Dratha."

If that's the case, are you sure you should be helping him?

"I only need him to survive long enough to sponsor me. He won't break ground on his tower anytime soon. Plus, there's a rumor that Dratha suffers from some mysterious illness. It could be Firuth's doing. You never can tell with the Telvanni."

Speaking to her again before leaving:

"I hate to be pushy, but you really should make haste to Vos. That purse contains my entire life savings. Pick-pockets will take notice, I assure you."

Return to her from your adventures in Vos, and she'll say:

"Back so soon? Well, you're quite the negotiator!
I trust you found a suitable property outside Vos?"

Not exactly. A Dark Elf swept in, bought the deed, and gave it to a wizard named Jinrisa.

"Jinrisa? Interesting. That envious hag never misses an opportunity to stick a thumb in Firuth's eye.
Listen carefully. I need you to acquire that deed as quickly as possible—before she makes it public that she's bought land near Vos."

How do you suggest I do that?

"I suggest you use all available means. You can begin by searching the Adept's Hall in Tel Naga.
I will warn you that the Adept's Hall is not open to outsiders. You'll need to be careful while searching for the deed, so as to not raise suspicion."

I understand.

"Jinrisa's offered us a chance to double our winnings. If we acquire the deed and embarrass her in the process, Firuth's bound to support my promotion!"

Speaking to her again before leaving:

"I doubt Jinrisa's been especially careful with the deed. There's a reason she's never advanced beyond the rank of wizard.
Unless I miss my guess, you'll find the document tucked away in Tel Naga somewhere. Good fortune, sera."

Retrieve the deed, exit the tower, and she'll be waiting for you in the street below:

"Did you find the deed? I'd hate to think that clumsy wizard, Jinrisa, outnixed me on this."

I got the deed back from Jinrisa. You can give it to Firuth, as you planned.

"Oh no, no. I can't do it myself. It's not subtle, or even polite, if a Telvanni just bluntly demands this thing or that service!
I'm sorry to impose once again, but could you give the deed to Master Firuth on my behalf?"

I suppose I can deliver it.

"I know I've asked a lot. Trust me, payment is forthcoming.
Just offer the deed to Firuth, and tell him that Sun-in-Shadow would like his written support for her elevation to the rank of retainer. Make it subtle … but not too subtle, you know?"

Where can I find Master Firuth?

"Just west of here, in a place called Hanud. Firuth values his privacy, so be wary of atronachs and traps—and don't be surprised if he's a bit … eccentric.
Meet me in the Council Hall, when you return. I have a very good feeling about this!"

Speaking to her again before leaving:

"Fair warning—Master Firuth may say some strange things. Do me a favor and try not to laugh, all right? He may seem odd, but he's still a powerful mage. Don't forget that."

Return with Master Firuth's Writ of Endorsement, and you'll find Sun-in-Shadow in conversation with Angharal Suth:

Angharal Suth : "We will review the request soon. In the meantime, continue your studies.

Sun-in-Shadow : "Muthsera Suth is most kind. I thank you."

Speak to her and she'll say:

"Ha! I recognize that swagger. Firuth agreed to my demands, didn't he?"

Yes. Master Firuth agreed to endorse you.

"Excellent!
I ran into Councilor Angharal just a moment ago—totally by chance, I might add. I asked her about the potential for advancement, and she hedged a bit. This endorsement will make all the difference."

Here's the writ. Firuth seemed pleased with the deal.

If you exit the dialogue at this moment and talk to her again:

"I do hope Magister Firuth didn't give you too much trouble. He's … an acquired taste."

Here's the writ. Firuth seemed pleased with the deal.

"Well, that makes two of us! I took no pleasure in spending all that coin, but as a retainer, I'll be able to double that sum before long.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have a writ to deliver! Thank you again, my friend."

Objections and Obstacles

Enter her home, and she'll greet you with:

Sun-in-Shadow : "Ah, what a pleasant surprise. Stay a while, won't you?"

"Always a pleasure to see you, sera. I'm glad you dropped by. I could use a friend right now."

What's going on?

"I just received a summons from the Council. Typically I'd be overjoyed. After all, I just submitted a petition for advancement to oathman. But the Council never acts on petitions this quickly.
Someone's arranging pieces on the game board, I know it."

What are you asking me to do?

"If a member of the House plans to spring a trap, I need to project strength.
The councilors know you've assisted me in the past. If you appear before the Mouths on my behalf, it puts the magisters and I on equal footing. It might even save my life."

All right. I'll go to the Council House in your stead.

Sun-in-Shadow : "Thank you, my friend. Be careful."

Exit the audience chamber, and Sun-in-Shadow will be waiting for you:

"Sorry, I grew tired of waiting. I received more than a few sideward glances on my way over. What happened in there?"

The Council rejected your petition.

"Oh. I see. Maybe I was too impatient—requested it too soon. Damn.
Did they give any reason? Was there anyone who spoke out against it?"

Gothren's Mouth, Ralasa Delvi, seemed dead set against it.

"Of course it was Ralasa. That pig has hated me from the start. Gothren's not fond of Argonians, but this is clearly personal.
Would you act as my emissary once more? If you go to Tel Aruhn and speak to Gothren directly, maybe he can settle this."

I'll try. I have a few questions though.

"I'll answer what I can, of course."

Why do the magisters have people who act as their Mouth?

"Most Telvanni magisters prefer to be left alone. They dislike and mistrust each other, so they appoint Mouths to handle business outside their towers.
Of course, the magister's wishes and the Mouth's wishes often get tangled. It's imperfect."

Sounds like it.

"Just trust me, it's better this way. If the councilors had to deal with each other directly there would be no peace in Vvardenfell. You wouldn't jam a bunch of alits into a pen together. Mages need room to stretch—room to breathe."

Seems like Telvanni mages need a lot of things.

"I never said House Telvanni was perfect. We take the good with the bad.
When I sit on the Council I'll put things right, how's that?"

You seem to be able to do what you want as a retainer. Is the oathman rank so important?

"Yes! When I achieve the rank of oathman, I should be able to purchase a slave. I'll free Eoki, and we'll toast to our success. That is what we've been working toward, right?
I know that some of this feels a little unsavory, but it's necessary."

None of this troubles you?

"A Telvanni mage doesn't have time to be troubled. Everyday I learn something new. Everyday I peel back one mystery to reveal another ten beneath it. If this is the price of that kind of discovery, I'll pay it!
That came out poorly. I … never mind."

What more can you tell me about Magister Gothren?

"Magister Gothren reigns over Tel Aruhn—the fungal tower west of here. He has a sour reputation, but remains one the most powerful mages in Tamriel.
I never had cause to work for him, but Eoki did. He doesn't like to talk about it."

Do you really think he's going to listen to me?

"I'd be lying if I said yes. But if there's anyone who could get through to him, it's you.
Gothren keeps a few "pupils"—henchmen more like. You'll probably have to get through one or two before he'll deign to speak with you. Just be careful."

Speaking with her again before leaving:

"Mind your manners around Magister Gothren. I hear he's … unpleasant."

After your dealings at Shashpilamat, you'll return to Sun-in-Shadow's home to find Arith leaving:

Arith Sendrul: "Once again, it's been a pleasure. Farewell, Sun-in-Shadow."

Speak to her and she'll explain:

"There you are! I'm glad you're back. I just had a fruitful conversation with our friend Arith. Seems that I'm not the only one Ralasa's holding back.
I think it might be time for a less conventional strategy."

What do you mean by less conventional?

"I underestimated Ralasa, I see that now. She plays the game far better than I do.
The only way to win a game like this is to eliminate the player."

Wait, are you asking me to assassinate Ralasa Delvi? That's your plan?

"I know how it sounds. I take no pleasure in it—it's just an unfortunate necessity. Half the Telvanni hierarchy arranged an opening at some point in their rise to power.
If you deal with Ralasa, Arith takes her place. It's the best play, sera."

All right. I'll help you assassinate Ralasa.

"I knew you'd see reason. Trust me, no one deserves this fate more than Ralasa. You may have a Telvanni's heart after all.
Arith told me that Ralasa entered her room in the Council House just a few minutes ago. Good luck my friend. Be discreet!"

I'm not an assassin. I won't do it.

"I… I apologize, my friend. Perhaps I have gotten a bit caught up in Telvanni maneuvering.
Of course I will respect your choice. I'm just worried about Eoki. I fear that I may never keep my promise to free him."

Speaking to her after agreeing to kill Ralasa:

"Ralasa had every opportunity to avoid this. Take solace in the fact that she forced our hand."

Assassination

You have to go to the Mouth Audience Chamber in the Council House, where you'll find Ralasa.
However on your way there you'll pass a female Khajiit slave named Tuharrii sweeping the floor, stopping as your enter the room (this is the room before you face Ralasa):

Tuharrii: "If you are looking for that evil tempered Telvanni witch, she went into that room."

Upon entering the Mouth Audience Chamber:

Ralasa Delvi: "So, the lizard thinks she can kill me? Come on then!"

Ralasa Delvi: "I'll have her skin for gloves, after I deal with you of course!"

After defeating her you'll find Sun-in-Shadow waiting for you outside the Council House:

"It's done? Thank you, sera. Not many people would take a life for their friends. At least I hope we're friends. The House … it makes it difficult to tell sometimes.
Arith and I spoke just moments ago. Things should move quickly."

I hope it was worth it.

"Arith assures me that the Council will accept my petition now. So yes, I'd call this a success. Hopefully, no one will give me cause to do this again in the future.
Once again, you have my thanks, sera."

After accepting the reward:

"I hope you will consider working with me again."

All this may backfire on you, Sun-in-Shadow.

"I admit, our handling of the Ralasa situation was stressful. For both of us. I hope we can move past it though, as friends.
Come visit me some time. I'll make it up to you, all right? I bought some very fine Khajiiti tea I've been dying to try."

I'll think about it, but I'm not your assassin.

"This may surprise you, but the higher I climb and the more powerful I become, the lonelier it gets.
A true Telvanni life always involves some seclusion, but I value our friendship—and Eoki's affection. I'd hate to lose either of you."

I understand. I'll stop by when I can.

Delivery

The conversation continues:

Perhaps there's another way?

"Appealing to her vices might work. Ralasa has quite a love for both information and sweets. Why not give her both?
Deliver these marshmerrow cakes and let her know about Arith's plot. It's a modest offering, but with time and effort, who knows?"

Speaking to her after refusing to kill Ralasa:

"Ralasa adores cakes. I doubt you'll have any trouble delivering them, but keep your guard up."

Deliver the cakes to Ralasa and you'll witness the mage eat the cakes and die due to some sort of poison. Exit the Council House and you'll find Sun-in-Shadow waiting for you outside:

"Greetings, friend. You seem troubled. Please, let me explain."

You tricked me into delivering poisoned food.

"I did. But only because you wouldn't have done it otherwise. Ralasa would have killed Eoki and me eventually. She forced my hand. A Telvanni must act or die.
Please, take this and my apologies. I hope you'll see the wisdom in this eventually."

She'll continue with:

"I hope you will consider working with me again."

I don't like being tricked, Sun-in-Shadow.

"I admit, it was underhanded and unfair to you. I hope we can move past it though, as friends.
Come visit me sometime. I'll make it up to you, all right? I bought some very fine Khajiit tea I've been dying to try."

At this point, I'm unsure if I should accept any food or drink you offer me.

"Your anger is understandable.
A true Telvanni life always involves some seclusion. The higher I climb, the lonelier it gets. But I truly value our friendship, and Eoki's affection. I'd hate to lose either of you."

I'll think about it.

The Magister Makes a Move

Sun-in-Shadow in a slave pen

After previous events, you will soon find that Magister Gothren did not react well to the death of his Mouth, Ralasa. Sun-in-Shadow will have been abducted and brought to Tel Ahrun. Once you arrive, you will find Sun-in-Shadow in a slave pen:

"Do you see what he has done to me? This is an outrage. I am a free Telvanni!
Go, speak to Magister Gothren. Demand he free me at once!"

Are you all right, Sun-in-Shadow?

"I'm not hurt. But I am angry. And a little frightened.
Gothren's men snatched me right out of my home in Sadrith Mora and used a portal to bring me here. And then Gothren ordered me to be put in a slave cage. Me! A free Telvanni!"

I came to see if [sic] can get the magister to release you.

"You are indeed a loyal friend. I've felt a bit hopeless, trapped in here, without any information. He wants me to feel like a slave, a nobody, worthless.
I must warn you—his plan is likely to make you do something for him, in order to free me."

I'm going to speak to him now.

Arith Sendrul came by to warn you when I was searching your home.

"Ah, that was a most useful cultivation. He has to be worried a bit as well, but is probably safe. Even so, he won't try to help me. I can't say that I blame him. He only just achieved his goal of being Gothren's Mouth."

I'm going to speak to Magister Gothren now.

After speaking with Magister Gothren, you can return to Shadow to tell her what he has tasked you with:

"Don't waste time. Do whatever it is Gothren wants you to do. Please!"

Magister Gothren wants me to steal some information from Magister Otheri.

"I hope it won't be too difficult. I know Magister Otheri has worked on something for a couple of years. Rumor has it that it is proving profitable. Tel Naga is the big tower in Sadrith Mora.
So he'll free me if you get details on these experiments?"

I believe so.

"Be careful, my friend. I am sure you will be successful."

You can talk to Sun-in-Shadow once you return to Tel Ahrun with the Dwarven Prism in hand:

"It is good to see you. I am trying hard not to sink into despair, stuck in here with nothing to do, nothing to read."

Upon being released from the pens:

"Sera, I cannot thank you enough for helping me. I wasn't sure if I'd ever leave Tel Aruhn alive.
I'm sorry. I know I've asked too much of you."

You might want to lie low for a while, Sun-in-Shadow.

"Sage advice. I've had my fill of schemes for now. I plan to dedicate myself to my studies and try to patch things up with Eoki. The last time I saw him, I said some … hurtful things.
Again, thank you. Next time you're in Sadrith Mora, come visit."

Gothren teleporting Sun-in-Shadow out of his tower

After finishing the quest she will approach the Magister and chastise him for abducting her:

Sun-in-Shadow: "I am a free mage of House Telvanni. You had no right to imprison me!"

Magister Gothren: "You presume to lecture me? You who conspired to kill my servant?"

Magister Gothren: "Thank whatever scaly gods you worship that I didn't rend the flesh off your back and feed you to the tower's roots! Cross me again, and your life is forfeit."

Magister Gothren: "We're done here. Begone."

The Magister will then teleport her out of his tower.

The Heart of a Telvanni

If starting the quest in Tel Aruhn:

"I always thought my worst humiliations were behind me. I guess I was wrong."

Are you all right, Sun-in-Shadow?

"Yes. Well, I will be. Languishing in Gothren's slave pens just … it took me back to darker times. Reminded me of the risks, and my good fortune up to this point. Perhaps I've been pushing too hard.
I have a great deal to think about."

What will you do now?

I'll return to Sadrith Mora and continue my studies. Talk to Eoki. Bury myself in a good novel.
Come and visit. It would be great to just sit and talk for a while, as friends. I still owe you that cup of tea, right?"

All right. I'll try to drop by.

Sun-in-Shadow will then leave Tel Aruhn.

Sun-in-Shadow pleads with Eoki not to leave

Upon entering Sun-in-Shadow's house:

Eoki: "You return escaping Khajiit to that beast, Gothren, and now I hear about our egg-kin crushed in the Zalkin-Sul mine? I thought I understood you, but I do not."

Sun-in-Shadow: "Eoki, wait! I'm trying to be strong enough for the both of us …."

Speak with her.

"Eoki berated me because the Zalkin-Sul cave-in killed some miners.
You stole the prism to save us from Magister Gothren. I suffered humiliation in a cage while you did what was necessary. Is that so wrong?"

Are you surprised that Eoki's upset about the deaths of other slaves?

"No, of course not. I care deeply for Eoki. I want to help him, but I can't save everyone.
I serve House Telvanni. I am Telvanni. He must understand that the House traditions may bend, but they will not break. I've never seen him so angry."

Do you think he's planning another escape?

"I certainly hope not, but if he's lost faith in our plan, anything's possible.
Eoki won't listen to me, but he might still heed your counsel. Would you talk to him? The magisters will only tolerate so much defiance. If he makes another attempt …."

I'll talk to him.

Speaking with her again:

"Thank you for talking to Eoki. I only hope that he'll listen to reason."

You will run into her at the Gateway Inn.

Sun-in-Shadow: "My friend, over here!"

Speak with her.

"Well, this is a coincidence. I came for a bottle of dry white. What brought you here? Have you spoken to Eoki yet?"

Were you following me, Sun-in-Shadow?

"No! Yes. Forgive me. I just couldn't keep pacing around the house, gnawing my claws.
Is Eoki all right? What did he say? He's not planning to do something foolish, is he?"

He and some others are planning another escape. It begins in the Vassamsi Mines.

"Vassamsi? You mean Gothren's slave-prison? What in the name of—? I know he distrusts me now, but you can't let him do this. If the truth of our relationship gets back to the Council ….
I'll go to the mine. Maybe I can talk him out of this"

Be careful, Sun-in-Shadow.

[Lie] He seemed fine. I doubt he's planning anything.

"I see. Well that's that, I guess. Once he cools down, I'll plead my case again.
I can't fight the House traditions all at once. But perhaps, with time and effort …. I just need more time. He must understand that."

Of course. I hope it works out.

She bids you farewell.

Sun-in-Shadow: "I won't keep you."

She appears through a portal outside of Vassamsi Mine.

Eoki: "Sun-in-Shadow?"

Sun-in-Shadow: "Eoki. The way we left things was …. Please, don't go."

Eoki: "I must. You and I share a heart, but our souls chirr different songs. This cannot last."

Eoki: "But before you go, you must see how your Telvanni treat our kin. Please, come into the mine and see how they live. How they die"

Sun-in-Shadow: "Fine. I will do this for you, but then I must go."

Inside the mines, Sun-in-Shadow becomes suspicious of Eoki's intentions.

Eoki: "Proceed with caution, egg-friend. The guard captain lurks nearby. I can feel it."

Sun-in-Shadow: "Eoki, what are you do—? Are those bodies?"

Eoki leads Sun-in-Shadow into the mine.

Eoki: "Come, see how your Telvanni masters treat their slaves."

Sun-in-Shadow: "What? Eoki, this is madness! You'll get me killed!"

Eoki: "Rally, my friends! Make your escape!"

Sun-in-Shadow: "I want to leave! Now!"

Eoki: "Do not be afraid. I will make sure you reach the boat safely."

Sun-in-Shadow: "Boat? I'm not getting on any boat!"

Eoki: "Heart, you are coming with us. In time you will thank me."

Sun-in-Shadow: "How dare you!"

Sun-in-Shadow: "Help! I'm being kidnapped!"

Eoki: "I'm trying to save you!"

Sun-in-Shadow and Eoki captured by Slavemaster Arenim

Sun-in-Shadow will knock Eoki down with a spell and run into the next room. Eoki will run after her. Upon entering the room you will find them both bound by magical chains by Slavemaster Arenim.

Slavemaster Arenim: "Ah, the leaders of this pathetic revolt. You will pay dearly!"

Sun-in-Shadow: "Wait, you fool! I'm a Telvanni mage! They were kidnapping me!"

After defeating the slavemaster, Sun-in-Shadow will free herself from the binding spell.

"I … I can't believe what just happened. That filthy Elf was going to kill me! A Telvanni mage!
And Eoki sought to drag me off like a prisoner! How could he do such a thing? Has he lost his mind?"

You can ask him yourself if you unbind him.

"I will. Of course I will. I just need a moment to think.
I could let him go. Perhaps I should. But why? He brings me joy and comfort, doesn't he? When he's not kidnapping me, that is. Why would I give that up if I didn't have to?

I doubt he'd be happy about it. Do you think he'll forgive you if you keep him a slave?

"Maybe. But if I let him go, I'll never see him again. The one person who truly cares about me, gone. No more silly Hist poems. No more wildflower bouquets. Nothing.
He'll forgive me. It will just take time, right? Please, help me decide."

He wants to go home. If you love him, you should set him free.

If you love him that much, you should hold on and never let go.

Setting Eoki Free

If you convince her to free Eoki, she will loosen his bonds.

Sun-in-Shadow: "Eoki, you can leave if you want. I won't stop you."

Eoki: "The House will betray you, Sun-in-Shadow. On that day, I hope you think of what we could have had."

Sun-in-Shadow: "I need a moment. We can talk outside."

Speaking to her outside the mine:

"I feel as if my heart is breaking. How could I let him leave me?"

I think you did the right thing, Sun-in-Shadow.

"I suppose I did, but it brings me no joy. Little wonder that other members of my House do the wrong thing so often.
Thank you for all you've done, sera. I will never forget your loyalty and friendship."

You can speak to her after the quest.

What's next, Sun-in-Shadow?

"I'll need to keep my lies straight. I see a long, grueling audience with the Council ahead of me."

So what happens now?

"I try to pick up the pieces of my broken heart and continue my studies.
Letting Eoki go was agony, but you were right—this is better for both of us. I spent so much time trying to earn his affection and prove my loyalty …. Now I can truly focus."

Focus on what?

"The game. My role in the House. My arcane explorations. My future as a magister. All of it.
Perhaps, when I've reached my full potential, I'll seek out Eoki again. See the world, you know? Until then, I live the life of a Telvanni."

Enslaving Eoki

If you convince her to keep Eoki enslaved, she tightens his bonds.

Sun-in-Shadow: "Yes … you're right. I can't let him go. I'll tell the others he's injured. That will please him, at least."

Eoki: "Sun-in-Shadow, what are you doing?"

She meets you and Rihnissi outside and breaks the news.

Sun-in-Shadow: "Arenim wounded Eoki. I stabilized him, but he can't travel. He said you should leave without him."

Rihnissi: "Damn. We'll wait at the coast for as long as we can. Wish him good luck … and thank you."

Sun-in-Shadow: "I will tell him. Now go"

Speaking to her:

"I hope Eoki's friends make it to the coast. If the House captures them, the punishment will be severe.
Now, to settle this business with Eoki."

Are you sure this is what you want?

"Yes. Eoki may curse me, but he'll see the wisdom in this eventually. I'll sweep his role in the escape under the rug—keep him safe from reprisals. One day, he'll thank me.
I appreciate your help in all of this, sera. You're a true friend."

You can speak to her after the quest.

"Now, to get my lies straight. With the guards and Slavemaster Arenim slain, I'm sure I can come out ahead."

Any second thoughts?

"About keeping Eoki here? No. I struggled with the idea of him hating me for this, but in the end, I'm sure he'll see it was for the best.
He'll have the very best of things, and my love to fortify him."

Will you ever set him free?

"Yes, once the time is right—once he understands what he'd been giving up if he ran again. He belongs here. He'll see that eventually.
With his support I'll bend this House to our desires. There's no telling what we can achieve together!"

Divine Blessings

If you have completed the Sadrith Mora storyline prior to the conclusion of Vvardenfell's main quest, Sun-in-Shadow will be present at the Temple Canton in Vivec City for Vivec's award ceremony during the quest Divine Blessings:

"I am honored to attend such a prestigious event. And in a lovely city, too!
You know, this trip has helped me realize that I haven't seen enough of Tamriel. There's nothing stopping me from visiting great cities like this one, thanks to you."

Dialogue

You can find her inside her house after completing the Sadrith Mora questline. Her dialogue differs depending on whether or not you freed Eoki.

Freed Eoki

"It is nice to see a friend. I confess, I am a bit lonesome with Eoki gone.
I have been keeping my ears open, and have not heard anything about any escaping slaves being caught. I hope he makes it home, I do. But still, I miss him every day."

How are you doing, Sun-in-Shadow?

"Busy. Working hard to circumvent Magister Gothren's desire to keep me from gaining further rank within House Telvanni. I've learned my lesson, though. I am being very careful about any dealings with him."

I can understand that. He's not a person you want to cross once, let alone twice.

"Indeed. My … or rather, our, adventures have taught me to be a bit more circumspect in my ambitions.
A little patience goes a long way. At least that is what Mouth Angharal has counseled."

Was there any word on Eoki or his friends?

"It was noted that Magister Gothren lost slaves from one of his mines. That the rebels also slew his slavemaster during their uprising. Arith said his master was quite peeved that the council was not outraged on his behalf."

So they got away?

"It would seem so. Gothren does not have friends on the council, and it was known that Slavemaster Arenim dealt cruelly with slaves.
So the council "sympathized" with the disruption of his mine, but had no resources available to assist in retrieval."

Enslaved Eoki

"It is nice to see you, my friend. I confess, I get a bit lonesome.
I made arrangements for my Eoki to be in a better situation, well treated. I know he is deeply angry with me, but I have hopes of making him happy again soon."

How are you doing Sun-in-Shadow?

"Busy. Working hard to circumvent Magister Gothren's desire to keep me from gaining further rank within House Telvanni. I've learned my lesson, though. I am being very careful about any dealings with him."

I can understand that. He's not a person you want to cross once, let alone twice.

"Indeed. My … or rather, our, adventures have taught me to be a bit more circumspect in my ambitions.
A little patience goes a long way. At least that is what Mouth Angharal has counseled."

Have you reconciled with Eoki?

"No. I did get Master Firuth to purchase him. A favor I will have to repay manyfold.
Firuth rather likes him. He's always been curious about Argonian culture and magic. I am hopeful that in time, Eoki will let go of his anger at me."

I'm surprised he hasn't tried to escape yet.

"I think his spirits are still cast down. I know mine are. I wish he would talk to me, but he won't. And I can't keep making up excuses to visit Master Firuth, just to try and snatch a moment to speak with Eoki. It would raise suspicions."

Notes

• Sun-in-Shadow's name was originally datamined as "Clever-Scales".
• Sun-in-Shadow appears as a card in Legends.