In Oblivion Remastered, the Black Hand Robes stand as a symbol of prestige within the Dark Brotherhood. These garments not only enhance your character’s abilities but also signify your ascent within the guild. Typically, these robes are awarded upon reaching the rank of Speaker. However, for those eager to acquire them earlier, there are clandestine methods to do so.
The Black Hand Robes are more than just attire; they are imbued with enchantments that bolster various skills:
- Fortify Blade: +11 points
- Fortify Illusion: +11 points
- Fortify Marksman: +11 points
- Fortify Sneak: +11 points
- Fortify Speechcraft: +11 points
These enhancements make the robes invaluable for players focusing on stealth, combat, and persuasion.
Conventional Acquisition
Under normal circumstances, the Black Hand Robes are bestowed upon players when they are promoted to the rank of Speaker within the Dark Brotherhood. This promotion occurs during the quest “Following a Lead,” which is near the culmination of the Dark Brotherhood questline. At this juncture, Lucien Lachance presents the robes as a token of your new status.
Early Acquisition Methods
For those unwilling to wait, there are alternative methods to procure the Black Hand Robes ahead of schedule. These methods involve stealth, risk, and a willingness to operate outside the bounds of the Brotherhood’s protocols.
1. Infiltrating J’Ghasta’s Residence in Bruma
J’Ghasta, a member of the Black Hand, resides in Bruma. Within his home lies a wine barrel secured with a Very Hard lock. Inside this barrel, the coveted Black Hand Robes are concealed.
- Preparation: Ensure your Security skill is sufficiently high, or equip yourself with lockpicks and spells to bypass the lock.
- Execution: Enter J’Ghasta’s house during the day when he’s likely absent. Locate the wine barrel near the entrance and unlock it to retrieve the robes.
2. Searching Alval Uvani’s Home in Leyawiin
Alval Uvani, another Black Hand member, keeps his robes hidden in his Leyawiin residence. The robes are stored in a concealed safe behind a painting above his bed.
- Preparation: Similar to J’Ghasta’s home, you’ll need a high Security skill or appropriate tools to access the safe.
- Execution: Enter Alval Uvani’s house discreetly, preferably when he’s away. Proceed to the bedroom, move the painting, and unlock the safe to claim the robes.
3. Confronting Lucien Lachance Early
An unconventional method involves confronting Lucien Lachance during your initial meeting after your first sanctioned kill. By choosing to eliminate him at this point, you can loot the Black Hand Robes from his body. However, this action will disrupt the Dark Brotherhood questline, potentially leading to unforeseen consequences.
4. Looting During the “Honor Thy Mother” Quest
Towards the end of the Dark Brotherhood questline, during the “Honor Thy Mother” mission, you’ll encounter deceased members of the Black Hand. Their bodies can be looted for the Black Hand Robes. While this method doesn’t provide early access, it offers an alternative means of acquisition.
Considerations and Risks
While obtaining the Black Hand Robes early can be advantageous, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks:
- Theft Consequences: Stealing the robes from J’Ghasta or Alval Uvani can result in a bounty if you’re caught. Ensure you’re not observed during the act.
- Questline Disruption: Killing Lucien Lachance prematurely will halt your progression in the Dark Brotherhood questline. Consider the long-term implications before taking this route.
- Stolen Item Status: Items obtained through theft are marked as stolen. To remove this status, you can equip the stolen item, drop it, and then pick it up again. This process resets its status, allowing you to use it without repercussions.
Strategic Advantages
Acquiring the Black Hand Robes early offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Abilities: The robes’ enchantments bolster key skills, providing an edge in combat and stealth scenarios.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Wearing the robes sets your character apart, showcasing your alignment with the Dark Brotherhood.
- Role-Playing Depth: Early acquisition allows for more immersive role-playing experiences, especially for characters deeply entrenched in the assassin archetype.
