How to join the Thieves Guild (Oblivion)

What is the "Thieves Guild"?

The Thieves Guild, established by the enigmatic Gray Fox over three centuries prior to the Oblivion Crisis, serves as a consortium of pickpockets, burglars, robbers, and thieves. Functioning as a covert communication network among the criminal underbelly of Cyrodiil, the guild facilitates the transmission of crucial information on valuable loot and lucrative jobs from influential individuals. This intel is relayed through the Doyen to the guild members, ensuring a seamless flow of opportunities. Furthermore, the Thieves Guild employs Fences who specialize in purchasing stolen goods, distinguishing them from the majority of conventional merchants.

Organization

In Cyrodiil, the Thieves Guild operates with heightened secrecy, compelled by the intensified scrutiny of the Imperial Watch. The aftermath of the assassination of Emperor Uriel Septim VII cast a pall over clandestine organizations, prompting the guild to maintain a covert existence. Officially disavowed by Imperial authorities, the Imperial Watch, led by the determined Hieronymus Lex, endeavors to dismantle the guild in the Imperial City by apprehending its elusive leader, known as the Gray Fox, purportedly existing for over three centuries.

In the realm of Oblivion, uncovering the Thieves Guild involves various methods, with one of the riskier approaches being arrest and imprisonment. During confinement, a would-be thief may establish contact with fellow incarcerated thieves, receiving a note guiding them to the location of the guild test. Alternatively, a less perilous route involves thorough interrogation of beggars, revealing that within the Imperial City Waterfront lies a small garden where one of the Guild's Doyen may entertain new recruits, subject to their success in a modest test. These tests typically unfold individually, though occasional instances of competitive assessments exist. Upon completion, a successful candidate becomes a guild member but must contribute to the guild's funds by selling stolen goods to one of the five Fences situated across Cyrodiil. Access to these Fences is disclosed as the thief attains a certain standing within the guild. Subsequently, members are invited to partake in organized thefts sanctioned by the guild.

Finding the guild

There are five methods of joining the guild:

• One method is being thrown in jail for a nonviolent crime (pickpocketing, stealing, etc. Committing violent crimes may work as well). Once the player has done so, a Dunmer named Myvryna Arano will approach them the next time they rest with a message from the Gray Fox, grandmaster of the guild. Upon reading this message, they will be given the "Finding the Thieves Guild" quest.

• Another avenue to uncover the Thieves Guild involves perusing a Wanted poster featuring the Gray Fox within the Imperial City. Positioned conspicuously in the Waterfront District, atop the pillar of an arch just behind the fast travel point, the poster beckons attention. Upon viewing the poster, inquisitive individuals may inquire with beggars, provided their disposition is amicable. Puny Ancus, conveniently situated in the Waterfront District, proves a reliable source. Beggars, when approached with the right demeanor, divulge information directing the seeker to the Garden of Dareloth at the stroke of midnight.

• Or one can simply wait around the Waterfront where Armand Christophe waits with his torch around midnight and simply talk to Amusei, Methredhel, and Armand until they trigger the challenge.

• Additionally, prospective members of the Thieves Guild have the option to enhance their standing with Armand. By fostering a positive relationship and elevating their disposition, the Hero can unveil the "Join Thieves Guild" dialogue option during conversations with Armand. This provides a direct avenue for initiation into the clandestine ranks of the Thieves Guild.

• Forge an alliance with City-Swimmer, a resident of Bravil, to glean insights into the mysteries surrounding the Thieves Guild. Establish a rapport with City-Swimmer, and she will discreetly guide you to the garden nestled in the Waterfront District, advising you to make your way there at the stroke of midnight to unravel the enigmatic secrets that await.