Hour 33: The Dark Fissure

The Mages at the University now trust me more and decide it's time I helped them investigate the insidious Necromancer cult which has sprung up since Traven, the Archmage, decided to ban necromancy. This mission starts as a pleasant 'research' diversion which involves me speaking to several people and finding information in a book. I never mind doing these sort of missions in Oblivion, because the dialogue is all so engrossing.

I learn that I must travel to the ominous-sounding Dark Fissure, in the mountains to the east, to learn more. It is, of course, overrun with foul necromancers. They give me a run for my money, especially when I come across more than one at a time. My Flame Atronach really shines here, able to blast the necromancers from afar and also damage the ghosts which are frequently summoned to aid them.

I get what I need (a note) after killing the first poor sap, but I decide to explore the cave system. A blood-stained stairway leads into the depths:

The cave has three levels and is quite sprawling. It has some unique features, such as these scary-looking grates:

Killing all of the necromancers is a challenge, but do-able. I find I'm having to rely more and more on potions, especially when there are multiple necromancers. Fortunately, they drop a lot of potions when they die. After some time, I emerge victorious. Here's the view from the mouth of the Dark Fissure, looking out across the forest of the lowlands, with the Imperial City visible in the faint distance: