Lords Of The Daedra

The Daedra Lord Tapestries. 194 52 26K (1 Today). Its said in TES lore that the lords can take on what ever form they wish, so they have no set gender, but I was. The book On Oblivion refers to the earliest historical record of the Daedra Lords, and describes four by name. It is most probable that 'daimon' is a misspelling or etymological rendition of 'Daedra,' the old Elven word for those strange, powerful creatures of uncertain motivation who hail from the dimensions of Oblivion. Nov 28, 2016 - Explore Michael Cole's board 'Daedra Lords' on Pinterest. See more ideas about Elder scrolls, Daedric prince, Skyrim.

Daedric Lords The Daedric Prince Mehrunes Dagon assaulting the Imperial City. Sometimes called the Daedric Princes, the Daedric Lords are the sixteen Daedra responsible for the creation of and rule over the Daedric Realms. They are each responsible for their own plane and each has a sphere of influence over which they reside.

Daedra (/deɪ.dɹə/ or /diː.dɹə/) are divine beings that did not take part in the creation of the Mundus, and thus retain the full breadth of their power. They have a very real impact on the mortal realm; in one way or another, Daedric influence touches everyone on Tamriel.^[1]

The word 'Daedra' is of Aldmeri origin, and roughly means 'not our ancestors', as opposed to Aedra—'ancestors'.^[2] Technically, only the plural is written 'Daedra', but this word is frequently used in singular as well. The proper singular form is 'Daedroth',^[3] but that has come to refer to a specific species of Daedra.^[4][5] Different cultures have their own myths and names for Daedra, as well.

Daedra are often referred to as demons, but this is misleading. All Daedra have a penchant for extremes and are therefore capable of tremendous acts of devastation, but their different spheres make them apply their power in different ways, and their infinite diversity makes speaking about them generally difficult.^[3][4] Thus, it is often impossible to accurately label them as 'good' or 'evil'; the one thing that can be stated with certainty is the Daedra are beyond mortal comprehension (as mortals seem to be beyond Daedric comprehension).^[4][6]

Daedra come in many forms. Undoubtedly there are true Daedra, such as the Daedra Princes and highly intelligent Dremora.^[6] There are many lesser beings known to be in league with these greater powers, but whether each type constitutes actual Daedra is unknown.^[3]

A Daedroth's physical form can be ruined, but it cannot be truly killed; the soul (more specifically known as the animus or vestige) of a slain Daedroth returns to the void of Oblivion until it manages to coalesce into a physical form again.^[6][7] A slain Daedroth is often said to have been 'banished' or 'purged' instead of 'killed' to reflect this.^[7] It is not known what happens to a Daedra killed in Aetherius,^[8] though it has been suggested that this may be the one way to permanently kill a Daedra.^[9]

Daedra are great imitators, and their creations are described as mimicking things found on Nirn in an outlandish or even corrupted way. They are capable of creating seemingly indestructible and mighty daedric armor and weaponry through dark rituals.^[10][5] The Daedric princes have also created several species of daedra that resemble species found on Nirn. The Beetles, Scorpions, Wasps, and Spiders from Mephala's Spiral Skein and the Crows from the Nocturnal's Evergloam are the more noticeable examples of imitations of Nirn's species.

Daedric Princes[edit]

Daedric Princes (sometimes referred to as Daedra Lords) are the most powerful of the Daedra, and thus most commonly worshipped as gods. Each has a particular sphere, which it is said to govern. Daedric Princes may assume a typically masculine or a typically feminine form, sometimes both. They are usually referred to as Princes regardless of what gender they appear most frequently as. In all, there are seventeen powerful Princes known to mortals: Azura, Boethiah, Clavicus Vile, Hermaeus Mora, Hircine, Jyggalag, Malacath, Mehrunes Dagon, Mephala, Meridia, Molag Bal, Namira, Nocturnal, Peryite, Sanguine, Sheogorath, and Vaermina. According to Mankar Camoran, Lorkhan is also a Daedric Prince, although this has never been confirmed.

Each Daedric Prince, with the exception of Jyggalag, is said to have their own plane of Oblivion, over which they have control. The limits on their planes, powers, and influence are not readily understood, as there are over 37,000 other planes (such as the Soul Cairn and the Chimera of Desolation, as well as chaos realms and pocket realms) over which they exert little or no control.

The Daedric Princes seem to view Men and Mer as little more than minor amusements, occasionally applauding the actions of mortals when they exceed their expectations. They do not know the mortal sense of 'good' and 'evil', and usually have extremist tendencies, which is why Men and Mer fear them greatly. However, several princes do seem to take genuine pleasure in tremendous acts of devastation, in particular Boethiah, Molag Bal, Vaermina, Mehrunes Dagon, and Peryite.

Although the beings are considered evil by most, they are widely worshipped in the realms of Tamriel. Elaborate shrines are created to honor the Daedra as gods. They often take a keen interest in their worshippers, and it is speculated that this is either because of the obvious ego-gratification of being somebody's god, or because the Daedra like to keep an eye on potential future subjects (assuming people of demonic disposition enter Oblivion after death, that is; there are as many afterlife theories as there are religions in the world). Mainstream religious authorities discourage Daedra worship, and often mount witch-hunting expeditions to drive out Daedra worshippers from the local area. During these encounters, they are often surprised at the marginal sanity that comes of worshipping the Daedric Princes. For the most part, however, dealing with the Daedra, one gets the distinct impression of being mused over as a person peering under an upturned rock may momentarily wonder at the lives of the bugs living ignorantly there. For more information, see main lore article.

Lesser Daedra[edit]

The Daedric Princes are only the most powerful of the Daedra, and many of them have many servants known generally as lesser Daedra (not to be confused with Lesser Daedra, a specific type of Daedra similar to Daedroths). Even though many lesser Daedra are associated with a Daedric Prince in particular, in reality, any individual Daedroth can serve any Daedric Prince by taking part in an 'Oath Bond' while others stay unaligned, though the specifics are characteristically unknown.^[4][5][6] Some are in service to mortals.^[5] For example, the Dunmer are known to use Daedra as servants and instruments,^[5][11] as have many other cultures,^[12][13] and the Ayleids employed entire armies of Daedra in their wars against men.^[14] Daedra are often summoned and used in the study of Magic; of course, the school of Conjuration deals specifically with connecting one's mind with a Daedroth and compelling its appearance in the mortal plane.^[3][15] For information on mortals summoning such Daedra, see the book Darkest Darkness.

See Also[edit]

• For game-specific information, see the Daggerfall, Battlespire, Morrowind, Oblivion, Skyrim, ESO, and Legends articles.

Bestiary[edit]

• Dro-m'Athra^{[verification needed — see talk page]}

Books[edit]

• Aedra and Daedra — Overview of the basic differences between Gods, Demons, Aedra, and Daedra
• The Amulet of Kings by Wenengrus Monhona — Chronicles the creation of the Amulet of Kings
• The Book of Daedra — Excerpts from a lengthy tome describing the nature of each of the Daedra
• Crafting Motif 14: Daedric Style by Seif-ij Hidja — Continuing my compilation of Doctor Alfidia Lupus' notes for studies of clothing, arms, and armor in diverse cultural styles….
• Crafting Motif 17: Xivkyn Style by Denogorath, Dread Archivist and Promulgator of Mandatory Doctrine — A guide to crafting armor and weapons in the Xivkyn style
• Crafting Motif 35: Dro-m'Athra Style by Twilight Cantor Adara'hai — A guide to crafting armor and weapons in the Dro-m'Athra style
• Crafting Motif 63: Dremora Style by Lyranth the Foolkiller — A guide to crafting armor and weapons in the Dremora style
• Darkest Darkness — A description of various Daedra
• 'Death' of Morphotypical Entities by Doctor Rhythandius — Academic musings on the 'death' of Daedric beings
• The Doors of Oblivion by Seif-ij Hidja — The chronicles of Morian Zenas' journey through the realms of Oblivion, penned by his apprentice
• Eyes of Nothing by Romien Garvette of the Whispering Shadows — A Nocturnal cultist's notes on the Wraith-of-Crows
• Feyfolken by Waughin Jarth — The Great Sage tells a story of Artaeum, Psijics, and Robotic Enchanters
• Inexplicable Patron: Mephala by Divayth Fyr — A Telvanni Lord's musings on the Daedric Prince of Secrets
• The Insatiable — Instructions on how to summon the embodiment of ceaseless hunger
• Letters for the Battlespire Hero by Vatasha Trenelle or Josian Kaid — A series of letters from an initiate to their friend following in their path
• Modern Heretics by Haderus of Gottlesfont — An account of one researcher's visit to the shrine of the Daedric Lord Azura
• The Monomyth — A theological book containing the common creation myths
• The Oblivion Crisis by Praxis Sarcorum, Imperial Historian — A summary of the events stemming from the assassination of Emperor Uriel Septim VII
• On Oblivion by Morian Zenas — A guide to Oblivion and the Daedra
• Daedra Dossier: The Titans by Denogorath the Dread Archivist — Notes on the origin of Daedric Titans
• Saints and Seducers by Andoche Marie — Sentinels of the Isles: A treatise on Golden Saint / Dark Seducer culture and history within the Shivering Isles
• Shadows and Whispers by Romien Garvette of the Whispering Shadows — A Nocturnal cultist's notes on the invasion of the Clockwork City
• Spirit of the Daedra — A look into the Daedric mindset
• Varieties of Daedra by Aranea Drethan — An analysis of Daedra forms, focusing primarily on the Dremora
• Varieties of Faith... by Brother Mikhael Karkuxor of the Imperial College — An expansive list of the pantheons and associated divine spirits of Tamriel's dominant cultures
• Vernaccus and Bourlor by Tavi Dromio — How a short-tempered Daedra tries to make something of himself

References[edit]

1. ^Pocket Guide to the Empire, 3rd Edition: Arena Supermundus: The Tapestry of Heaven — Imperial Geographical Society, 3E 432
2. ^Aedra and Daedra
3. ^ ^abcdOn Oblivion — Morian Zenas
4. ^ ^abcdVarieties of Daedra — Aranea Drethan
5. ^ ^abcdeDarkest Darkness
6. ^ ^abcdSpirit of the Daedra
7. ^ ^abThe Book of Daedra
8. ^Journey to Aetherius quest
9. ^'Death' of Morphotypical Entities — Doctor Rhythandius
10. ^Crafting Motif 14: Daedric Style — Seif-ij Hidja
11. ^The Anticipations — Anonymous
12. ^Modern Heretics — Haderus of Gottlesfont
13. ^Feyfolken — Waughin Jarth
14. ^The Amulet of Kings — Wenengrus Monhona
15. ^The Doors of Oblivion — Seif-ij Hidja

In comparison to the other Lords of Oblivion, Clavicus Vile stood out to me in a way. His cocky and boastful attitude seemed to concordant his spheres of mockery and oath-breaking. His followers tend to mimic his narcissistic persona, while keeping to themselves within isolated locations. Many writings about him are fragmented or obscured, making him a mysterious Daedra among his other brethren.

Clavicus Vile, also known as the Wishmaster, Child-God of the Morningstar, the Orator of Oblivion, the Venditabant, the Regem of Mercators, He-Who-Spreads-False-Truths, the Lord of Deals, the Prince of Contracts, the Bringer of Serenity, and the Horned Child, is the Daedric Prince of Wishes, Deals, Bargains, Commerce, Power, and Serenity.

Along with Peryite, Nocturnal, and Vaermina, Clavicus Vile does not appear on any of the Tamrielic pantheons. However, his worship is widespread across Tamriel, especially among the nobility, where he is commonly associated with wealth and power.

Clavicus Vile is known for taking two forms while manifesting on Nirn. The first form recorded by the denizens of Tamriel is a small jovial boy with two, small horns sprouting from his forehead. His second, and perhaps his most known form, is an attractive looking male with lush golden hair, with two enlarged horns on his head. Most statues across Tamriel depict him in this form, where he is seen wearing a toga, and proudly showing off his artifact, the Masque of Clavicus Vile. Also depicted in his shrines is his companion, the shape-shifting Daedra known as Barbas.

While the mortal concepts of 'good' and 'evil' cannot be fully comprehended by the Daedric Princes, Clavicus Vile is still seen as a malevolent deity by most, and is well known for taking back his deals at the most inopportune times. The most known story of such an incident occurring tells the tale of Avalea, a noblewoman of some renown. As a young girl, she was grossly disfigured by a spiteful servant. Avalea made a dark deal with Clavicus Vile and received the Masque in return. Though the Masque did not change her looks, she had gained the respect and admiration of everyone around her. A year and a day after her marriage to a powerful baron, Clavicus Vile reclaimed the Masque. Although pregnant with his child, Avalea was banished from the Baron's household. Twenty one years and one day later, Avalea's daughter avenged her mother by slaying the Baron. With that said, a few of Vile's followers have said that their Master honors his deals, and balances his rewards quite fairly. You just need to be cautious with that you wish for.

During the days of the Merethic Era, Clavicus Vile was seen as a main patron of the Nedic people, where ancient texts describe him as a merchant god who watched over traders in exchange for offerings. His worship was prominent in Cyrodiil, especially within the Nibenay Basin, where he was worshipped by every major tribe (even lesser races of Man such as the Kothringi held Clavicus in high esteem. And some tribes worshipped him in the late Second Era, until a deadly plague known as the Knahaten Flu systematically wiped out the Kothringi people). During the First Era, worship of Clavicus by the Nedes began to gradually decline as the Ayleid Empire expanded their reach across the Heartland.

When the Ayleids began to enslave the Nedes, worship of the Wishmaster became renowned among the Mer races. Along with the other Princes, Clavicus Vile was practically unknown to the Aldmer and their descendants, likely due to their anuic nature, and worship of the Aedric spirits. Exposure to Nedic culture, and religion resulted in the Ayleids learning about and then incorporating the Prince of Pacts into their mythos. He became a symbol of power and equanimity within the Ayleid government and city-states. However, when Alessia began praying to the Dragon god, Akatosh, for divine help in overthrowing the slave-masters. The Divines took pity on the poor Nedic girl, sending her the aid of the demigods, Pelinal Whitestrake and Morihaus. Alessia then freed herself, and launched what would be known as the ‘Alessian Rebellion'.

Some of the Ayleid kings rebelled against their daedra worshipping brethren, and allied themselves with the Nede uprising and its newfound Nordic supporters. In the aftermath of the Slave Rebellion, entire cities dedicated to the Daedra lords were completely razed and demolished. In the end, the Nedes won against their former masters and drove all hostile Ayleids out of Cyrodiil. With the installation of the Eight Divines (a fusion of the Aldmeri and Nordic pantheons) and the subsequent public banning of Daedra worship, worship of the Wishmaster was completely eradicated, and many statues erected in his honor were destroyed.

In Skyrim, Clavicus Vile is not recognized by the Nords, and most cults established in his name are unknown. However, shrines dedicated to the Lord of Deals have been seen in and around mountainous locations, particularly underground. According to fable, some Jarls have been seen giving praise to Lord Clavicus in a desperate attempt to procure power and influence.

Worship of Clavicus eventually found its way to High Rock, home of the Breton people, where Vile is depicted as a ‘financial banker' to the ruling kings and queens. The royal families are also rumored to have forged dark pacts with Clavicus in an attempt to usurp each other's power. Due to their disdain for civilization and the civilized in general, the barbaric Reachman do not worship Clavicus Vile, as they view him as a 'sophisticated' deity, along with Sanguine. Subtlety and nuance, they believe, are for the weak.

While the Redguards deny this, ancient Yokudan texts seem to indicate that Clavicus Vile is involved with the region of Hammerfell. When the Forebears became cosmopolitan, they also became open-minded to the worship of Daedra. While the Crowns view Clavicus as an evil trickster demon, the Forebears see him as a peaceful god of trade and bartering.

When the Ayleids fled the onslaught of the Alessian Order, the Wild Elves managed to integrate themselves back into Altmer society. Many of them brought the worship of Daedra with them, but due to the Altmer disdain for the padomaic et'Ada, many cults dedicated to the King of Deals are otherwise obscure, and unknown.

Similar to the Nords, the Bosmer of Valenwood do not acknowledge Clavicus, who is seen as a much more obscure deity to them. However, since the Bosmer are unable to harm the vegetation of their homeland due to an ancient pact with the forest god, Y'ffre. Some legends state that the Bosmer call upon Clavicus during their transactions with the other provinces of Tamriel. Ayleid refugees also brought worship of Clavicus to the province when the Bosmer gave them shelter from the Nede uprising, but most Vile worshippers kept to themselves, and his worship died out when they did.

It is unknown when the Khajiit of Elsweyr were introduced to Vile. But early texts indicate that he is known as Clav'cus, the Serene Cat, 'for who is better at bringing serenity than a kitten?'. There is also a merchant cabal in Rimmen known as the Jovial Lambasters who are known for celebrating Clavicus Vile. Not much is known about them, but they are recognized as a peaceful cult by Lady Cinnabar.

Skyrim Lords Of The Daedra Book

While the Argonians of Black Marsh venerate neither Aedra or Daedra (instead, choosing to revere the sentient spore trees known as ‘the Hist' and the great nothingness known as Sithis), individuals who leave the province are quite capable of doing so. Instead, worship of Clavicus Vile is centralized in the Kothringi tribes. However, with the extinction of the Kothringi people mentioned above, worship of Clavicus has been diminished to almost nothing.

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Clavicus Vile by RisingMonster, Deviantart

In Morrowind, the Dunmer have a fascinating background with the Wishmaster. He was one of the ancient spirits that accompanied the Chimer during the Velothi Exodus, albeit overshadowed by the ‘Good Daedra' (Boethiah, Azura, Mephala). Largely responsible for teaching them the masterful skills of trade and bartering, Clavicus Vile aided the Chimer in establishing trade routes with the other provinces of Tamriel, allowing them to become a prosperous nation. When the Tribunal betrayed Nerevar and became gods, they gave counsel and admonishment to the Daedric Princes. Some (like the three Good Daedra) complied with the will of the False Gods, while others (like the House of Troubles) rebelled. Interestingly enough, Clavicus Vile simply chose to withdraw from the land of the Dunmer entirely. Although, he is still known for granting dark wishes for some minor Ashlander tribes, overall worship of Lord Clavicus was dissolved due to his intentional disregard for the province.

It is unknown if the other denizens of Tamriel (the Imga, Orcs, etc.) give praise to Clavicus in some shape or form. It is often assumed that the Sload of Thras often make dealings with him. With his sphere including arcane pacts, generally associated with vampirism, lichdom, and necromancy, it wouldn't come as a surprise that the repulsive Sload would venerate Vile.

Certain vampire clans revere Clavicus as a major patron. This is true for the Vampyrum Order of Cyrodiil. While their origins are a complete mystery, one of the most popular, yet obscure theories concerning their origins, is that sometime during the Merethic Era, one of the major Nedic tribes came into contact with the Bloodmatron, Lamae Bal. Upon being infected with vampirism, this certain tribe forged a contract with Clavicus Vile. In exchange for their utmost loyalty, this tribe gained the ability to mask their vampiric features, and blend into society undetected.

Persecution of Clavicus worshippers is often brought on by followers of Zenithar and Julianos, and it is noted that there is some rivalry between the Wishmaster and the God of Trading. Clavicus-Zenithar aggression seems to date back to the early First Era, although other texts indicate that such aggression did not come to pass until the Second Era. The Wishmaster's sphere of deals and pacts often interferes with Zenithar's control over trading and commerce, while his sphere of granting power often interferes with Julianos' domain over literature and wisdom. While Vile does not have any rivals among the other Daedric lords, Molag Bal and Meridia are often thought to have disdain for the Prince of Contracts. Molag Bal for reasons unknown, and Meridia for granting the Cyrodilic vampires the ability to blend in with mortals without arousing suspicion. With the exception of the Mad God, the Black Knight, Ebonarm, is said to despise all Daedra.

While the true name of Clavicus Vile's domain in Oblivion is unknown to mortals, most scholars have agreed that it is often thought to be known as Desideratum. The only knowledge of this realm comes from worshippers of Vile who have visited his realm, and the souls of mortals that reside there. Desideratum has been described as an idyllic countryside, dotted with vibrant merchant utopias, leafy green pastures, and woodland meadows. The air is said to smell of wildflowers, while the sky is blue with soft cottony clouds. The realm is also said to have gentle rain, similar to Azura's Moonshadow. Most inhabitants within this realm are said to be locked in a never-ending cycle of bargaining. Clavicus himself is noted for residing in the Palace of Tranquility, his center of power within Desideratum.

The Daedra that are employed by the Prince of Pacts include Herne, a type of slightly intelligent Daedra that act as hunters, with a possible relation to the common scamp; Skaafin, a type of Daedra that have yellow skin, often vary in size, possess humanoid faces with long white horns, and sometimes have one white eye. Other types of Daedra that are noted within the servitude of the Wishmaster include Dremora merchants, Clannfear that are often used for transportation, Dremora warriors who wear golden armor that changes color when exposed to sunlight, and the wish-granting Daedra known as the Djinn, who are noted for being loyal only to Clavicus, and seem to be the Prince's most favoured servants. Another type of unique Daedra supposedly encountered in Desideratum is the Djinnkyn, a vestige transmogrification between the warmongering Dremora Knights, and the wish-granting Djinn. What makes these Daedra special is their undying loyalty to Vile. From my recent studies, I've been able to deduce that their sole purpose is to serve in Vile's personal guard, while simultaneously maintaining serenity within the more 'essential' merchant cities within his idyllic realm.

Clavicus Vile's summoning day is the 1st of Morningstar, which could explain why he is known as the 'child-god' of this month to the Imperials. Currently, the only known way to summon the Wishmaster is with a bit of coin. It is also said that there is a ritual for opening a portal to the Desideratum. The ingredients are as follows: Orc's blood combined with amber, Unicorn's horn mixed with Hist sap, and the heart of a daedra mixed with ectoplasm. Pour the mixture into a certain symbol, and it is said that a portal to Vile's domain in Oblivion will open. However, this has never been attempted.

Daedra are often referred to as demons, but this is misleading. All Daedra have a penchant for extremes and are therefore capable of tremendous acts of devastation, but their different spheres make them apply their power in different ways, and their infinite diversity makes speaking about them generally difficult.^[3][4] Thus, it is often impossible to accurately label them as 'good' or 'evil'; the one thing that can be stated with certainty is the Daedra are beyond mortal comprehension (as mortals seem to be beyond Daedric comprehension).^[4][6]

Daedra come in many forms. Undoubtedly there are true Daedra, such as the Daedra Princes and highly intelligent Dremora.^[6] There are many lesser beings known to be in league with these greater powers, but whether each type constitutes actual Daedra is unknown.^[3]

A Daedroth's physical form can be ruined, but it cannot be truly killed; the soul (more specifically known as the animus or vestige) of a slain Daedroth returns to the void of Oblivion until it manages to coalesce into a physical form again.^[6][7] A slain Daedroth is often said to have been 'banished' or 'purged' instead of 'killed' to reflect this.^[7] It is not known what happens to a Daedra killed in Aetherius,^[8] though it has been suggested that this may be the one way to permanently kill a Daedra.^[9]

Daedra are great imitators, and their creations are described as mimicking things found on Nirn in an outlandish or even corrupted way. They are capable of creating seemingly indestructible and mighty daedric armor and weaponry through dark rituals.^[10][5] The Daedric princes have also created several species of daedra that resemble species found on Nirn. The Beetles, Scorpions, Wasps, and Spiders from Mephala's Spiral Skein and the Crows from the Nocturnal's Evergloam are the more noticeable examples of imitations of Nirn's species.

Daedric Princes[edit]

Daedric Princes (sometimes referred to as Daedra Lords) are the most powerful of the Daedra, and thus most commonly worshipped as gods. Each has a particular sphere, which it is said to govern. Daedric Princes may assume a typically masculine or a typically feminine form, sometimes both. They are usually referred to as Princes regardless of what gender they appear most frequently as. In all, there are seventeen powerful Princes known to mortals: Azura, Boethiah, Clavicus Vile, Hermaeus Mora, Hircine, Jyggalag, Malacath, Mehrunes Dagon, Mephala, Meridia, Molag Bal, Namira, Nocturnal, Peryite, Sanguine, Sheogorath, and Vaermina. According to Mankar Camoran, Lorkhan is also a Daedric Prince, although this has never been confirmed.

Each Daedric Prince, with the exception of Jyggalag, is said to have their own plane of Oblivion, over which they have control. The limits on their planes, powers, and influence are not readily understood, as there are over 37,000 other planes (such as the Soul Cairn and the Chimera of Desolation, as well as chaos realms and pocket realms) over which they exert little or no control.

The Daedric Princes seem to view Men and Mer as little more than minor amusements, occasionally applauding the actions of mortals when they exceed their expectations. They do not know the mortal sense of 'good' and 'evil', and usually have extremist tendencies, which is why Men and Mer fear them greatly. However, several princes do seem to take genuine pleasure in tremendous acts of devastation, in particular Boethiah, Molag Bal, Vaermina, Mehrunes Dagon, and Peryite.

Although the beings are considered evil by most, they are widely worshipped in the realms of Tamriel. Elaborate shrines are created to honor the Daedra as gods. They often take a keen interest in their worshippers, and it is speculated that this is either because of the obvious ego-gratification of being somebody's god, or because the Daedra like to keep an eye on potential future subjects (assuming people of demonic disposition enter Oblivion after death, that is; there are as many afterlife theories as there are religions in the world). Mainstream religious authorities discourage Daedra worship, and often mount witch-hunting expeditions to drive out Daedra worshippers from the local area. During these encounters, they are often surprised at the marginal sanity that comes of worshipping the Daedric Princes. For the most part, however, dealing with the Daedra, one gets the distinct impression of being mused over as a person peering under an upturned rock may momentarily wonder at the lives of the bugs living ignorantly there. For more information, see main lore article.

Lesser Daedra[edit]

The Daedric Princes are only the most powerful of the Daedra, and many of them have many servants known generally as lesser Daedra (not to be confused with Lesser Daedra, a specific type of Daedra similar to Daedroths). Even though many lesser Daedra are associated with a Daedric Prince in particular, in reality, any individual Daedroth can serve any Daedric Prince by taking part in an 'Oath Bond' while others stay unaligned, though the specifics are characteristically unknown.^[4][5][6] Some are in service to mortals.^[5] For example, the Dunmer are known to use Daedra as servants and instruments,^[5][11] as have many other cultures,^[12][13] and the Ayleids employed entire armies of Daedra in their wars against men.^[14] Daedra are often summoned and used in the study of Magic; of course, the school of Conjuration deals specifically with connecting one's mind with a Daedroth and compelling its appearance in the mortal plane.^[3][15] For information on mortals summoning such Daedra, see the book Darkest Darkness.

See Also[edit]

• For game-specific information, see the Daggerfall, Battlespire, Morrowind, Oblivion, Skyrim, ESO, and Legends articles.

Bestiary[edit]

• Dro-m'Athra^{[verification needed — see talk page]}

Books[edit]

• Aedra and Daedra — Overview of the basic differences between Gods, Demons, Aedra, and Daedra
• The Amulet of Kings by Wenengrus Monhona — Chronicles the creation of the Amulet of Kings
• The Book of Daedra — Excerpts from a lengthy tome describing the nature of each of the Daedra
• Crafting Motif 14: Daedric Style by Seif-ij Hidja — Continuing my compilation of Doctor Alfidia Lupus' notes for studies of clothing, arms, and armor in diverse cultural styles….
• Crafting Motif 17: Xivkyn Style by Denogorath, Dread Archivist and Promulgator of Mandatory Doctrine — A guide to crafting armor and weapons in the Xivkyn style
• Crafting Motif 35: Dro-m'Athra Style by Twilight Cantor Adara'hai — A guide to crafting armor and weapons in the Dro-m'Athra style
• Crafting Motif 63: Dremora Style by Lyranth the Foolkiller — A guide to crafting armor and weapons in the Dremora style
• Darkest Darkness — A description of various Daedra
• 'Death' of Morphotypical Entities by Doctor Rhythandius — Academic musings on the 'death' of Daedric beings
• The Doors of Oblivion by Seif-ij Hidja — The chronicles of Morian Zenas' journey through the realms of Oblivion, penned by his apprentice
• Eyes of Nothing by Romien Garvette of the Whispering Shadows — A Nocturnal cultist's notes on the Wraith-of-Crows
• Feyfolken by Waughin Jarth — The Great Sage tells a story of Artaeum, Psijics, and Robotic Enchanters
• Inexplicable Patron: Mephala by Divayth Fyr — A Telvanni Lord's musings on the Daedric Prince of Secrets
• The Insatiable — Instructions on how to summon the embodiment of ceaseless hunger
• Letters for the Battlespire Hero by Vatasha Trenelle or Josian Kaid — A series of letters from an initiate to their friend following in their path
• Modern Heretics by Haderus of Gottlesfont — An account of one researcher's visit to the shrine of the Daedric Lord Azura
• The Monomyth — A theological book containing the common creation myths
• The Oblivion Crisis by Praxis Sarcorum, Imperial Historian — A summary of the events stemming from the assassination of Emperor Uriel Septim VII
• On Oblivion by Morian Zenas — A guide to Oblivion and the Daedra
• Daedra Dossier: The Titans by Denogorath the Dread Archivist — Notes on the origin of Daedric Titans
• Saints and Seducers by Andoche Marie — Sentinels of the Isles: A treatise on Golden Saint / Dark Seducer culture and history within the Shivering Isles
• Shadows and Whispers by Romien Garvette of the Whispering Shadows — A Nocturnal cultist's notes on the invasion of the Clockwork City
• Spirit of the Daedra — A look into the Daedric mindset
• Varieties of Daedra by Aranea Drethan — An analysis of Daedra forms, focusing primarily on the Dremora
• Varieties of Faith... by Brother Mikhael Karkuxor of the Imperial College — An expansive list of the pantheons and associated divine spirits of Tamriel's dominant cultures
• Vernaccus and Bourlor by Tavi Dromio — How a short-tempered Daedra tries to make something of himself

References[edit]

1. ^Pocket Guide to the Empire, 3rd Edition: Arena Supermundus: The Tapestry of Heaven — Imperial Geographical Society, 3E 432
2. ^Aedra and Daedra
3. ^ ^abcdOn Oblivion — Morian Zenas
4. ^ ^abcdVarieties of Daedra — Aranea Drethan
5. ^ ^abcdeDarkest Darkness
6. ^ ^abcdSpirit of the Daedra
7. ^ ^abThe Book of Daedra
8. ^Journey to Aetherius quest
9. ^'Death' of Morphotypical Entities — Doctor Rhythandius
10. ^Crafting Motif 14: Daedric Style — Seif-ij Hidja
11. ^The Anticipations — Anonymous
12. ^Modern Heretics — Haderus of Gottlesfont
13. ^Feyfolken — Waughin Jarth
14. ^The Amulet of Kings — Wenengrus Monhona
15. ^The Doors of Oblivion — Seif-ij Hidja

In comparison to the other Lords of Oblivion, Clavicus Vile stood out to me in a way. His cocky and boastful attitude seemed to concordant his spheres of mockery and oath-breaking. His followers tend to mimic his narcissistic persona, while keeping to themselves within isolated locations. Many writings about him are fragmented or obscured, making him a mysterious Daedra among his other brethren.

Clavicus Vile, also known as the Wishmaster, Child-God of the Morningstar, the Orator of Oblivion, the Venditabant, the Regem of Mercators, He-Who-Spreads-False-Truths, the Lord of Deals, the Prince of Contracts, the Bringer of Serenity, and the Horned Child, is the Daedric Prince of Wishes, Deals, Bargains, Commerce, Power, and Serenity.

Along with Peryite, Nocturnal, and Vaermina, Clavicus Vile does not appear on any of the Tamrielic pantheons. However, his worship is widespread across Tamriel, especially among the nobility, where he is commonly associated with wealth and power.

Clavicus Vile is known for taking two forms while manifesting on Nirn. The first form recorded by the denizens of Tamriel is a small jovial boy with two, small horns sprouting from his forehead. His second, and perhaps his most known form, is an attractive looking male with lush golden hair, with two enlarged horns on his head. Most statues across Tamriel depict him in this form, where he is seen wearing a toga, and proudly showing off his artifact, the Masque of Clavicus Vile. Also depicted in his shrines is his companion, the shape-shifting Daedra known as Barbas.

While the mortal concepts of 'good' and 'evil' cannot be fully comprehended by the Daedric Princes, Clavicus Vile is still seen as a malevolent deity by most, and is well known for taking back his deals at the most inopportune times. The most known story of such an incident occurring tells the tale of Avalea, a noblewoman of some renown. As a young girl, she was grossly disfigured by a spiteful servant. Avalea made a dark deal with Clavicus Vile and received the Masque in return. Though the Masque did not change her looks, she had gained the respect and admiration of everyone around her. A year and a day after her marriage to a powerful baron, Clavicus Vile reclaimed the Masque. Although pregnant with his child, Avalea was banished from the Baron's household. Twenty one years and one day later, Avalea's daughter avenged her mother by slaying the Baron. With that said, a few of Vile's followers have said that their Master honors his deals, and balances his rewards quite fairly. You just need to be cautious with that you wish for.

During the days of the Merethic Era, Clavicus Vile was seen as a main patron of the Nedic people, where ancient texts describe him as a merchant god who watched over traders in exchange for offerings. His worship was prominent in Cyrodiil, especially within the Nibenay Basin, where he was worshipped by every major tribe (even lesser races of Man such as the Kothringi held Clavicus in high esteem. And some tribes worshipped him in the late Second Era, until a deadly plague known as the Knahaten Flu systematically wiped out the Kothringi people). During the First Era, worship of Clavicus by the Nedes began to gradually decline as the Ayleid Empire expanded their reach across the Heartland.

When the Ayleids began to enslave the Nedes, worship of the Wishmaster became renowned among the Mer races. Along with the other Princes, Clavicus Vile was practically unknown to the Aldmer and their descendants, likely due to their anuic nature, and worship of the Aedric spirits. Exposure to Nedic culture, and religion resulted in the Ayleids learning about and then incorporating the Prince of Pacts into their mythos. He became a symbol of power and equanimity within the Ayleid government and city-states. However, when Alessia began praying to the Dragon god, Akatosh, for divine help in overthrowing the slave-masters. The Divines took pity on the poor Nedic girl, sending her the aid of the demigods, Pelinal Whitestrake and Morihaus. Alessia then freed herself, and launched what would be known as the ‘Alessian Rebellion'.

Some of the Ayleid kings rebelled against their daedra worshipping brethren, and allied themselves with the Nede uprising and its newfound Nordic supporters. In the aftermath of the Slave Rebellion, entire cities dedicated to the Daedra lords were completely razed and demolished. In the end, the Nedes won against their former masters and drove all hostile Ayleids out of Cyrodiil. With the installation of the Eight Divines (a fusion of the Aldmeri and Nordic pantheons) and the subsequent public banning of Daedra worship, worship of the Wishmaster was completely eradicated, and many statues erected in his honor were destroyed.

In Skyrim, Clavicus Vile is not recognized by the Nords, and most cults established in his name are unknown. However, shrines dedicated to the Lord of Deals have been seen in and around mountainous locations, particularly underground. According to fable, some Jarls have been seen giving praise to Lord Clavicus in a desperate attempt to procure power and influence.

Worship of Clavicus eventually found its way to High Rock, home of the Breton people, where Vile is depicted as a ‘financial banker' to the ruling kings and queens. The royal families are also rumored to have forged dark pacts with Clavicus in an attempt to usurp each other's power. Due to their disdain for civilization and the civilized in general, the barbaric Reachman do not worship Clavicus Vile, as they view him as a 'sophisticated' deity, along with Sanguine. Subtlety and nuance, they believe, are for the weak.

While the Redguards deny this, ancient Yokudan texts seem to indicate that Clavicus Vile is involved with the region of Hammerfell. When the Forebears became cosmopolitan, they also became open-minded to the worship of Daedra. While the Crowns view Clavicus as an evil trickster demon, the Forebears see him as a peaceful god of trade and bartering.

When the Ayleids fled the onslaught of the Alessian Order, the Wild Elves managed to integrate themselves back into Altmer society. Many of them brought the worship of Daedra with them, but due to the Altmer disdain for the padomaic et'Ada, many cults dedicated to the King of Deals are otherwise obscure, and unknown.

Similar to the Nords, the Bosmer of Valenwood do not acknowledge Clavicus, who is seen as a much more obscure deity to them. However, since the Bosmer are unable to harm the vegetation of their homeland due to an ancient pact with the forest god, Y'ffre. Some legends state that the Bosmer call upon Clavicus during their transactions with the other provinces of Tamriel. Ayleid refugees also brought worship of Clavicus to the province when the Bosmer gave them shelter from the Nede uprising, but most Vile worshippers kept to themselves, and his worship died out when they did.

It is unknown when the Khajiit of Elsweyr were introduced to Vile. But early texts indicate that he is known as Clav'cus, the Serene Cat, 'for who is better at bringing serenity than a kitten?'. There is also a merchant cabal in Rimmen known as the Jovial Lambasters who are known for celebrating Clavicus Vile. Not much is known about them, but they are recognized as a peaceful cult by Lady Cinnabar.

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While the Argonians of Black Marsh venerate neither Aedra or Daedra (instead, choosing to revere the sentient spore trees known as ‘the Hist' and the great nothingness known as Sithis), individuals who leave the province are quite capable of doing so. Instead, worship of Clavicus Vile is centralized in the Kothringi tribes. However, with the extinction of the Kothringi people mentioned above, worship of Clavicus has been diminished to almost nothing.

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Clavicus Vile by RisingMonster, Deviantart

In Morrowind, the Dunmer have a fascinating background with the Wishmaster. He was one of the ancient spirits that accompanied the Chimer during the Velothi Exodus, albeit overshadowed by the ‘Good Daedra' (Boethiah, Azura, Mephala). Largely responsible for teaching them the masterful skills of trade and bartering, Clavicus Vile aided the Chimer in establishing trade routes with the other provinces of Tamriel, allowing them to become a prosperous nation. When the Tribunal betrayed Nerevar and became gods, they gave counsel and admonishment to the Daedric Princes. Some (like the three Good Daedra) complied with the will of the False Gods, while others (like the House of Troubles) rebelled. Interestingly enough, Clavicus Vile simply chose to withdraw from the land of the Dunmer entirely. Although, he is still known for granting dark wishes for some minor Ashlander tribes, overall worship of Lord Clavicus was dissolved due to his intentional disregard for the province.

It is unknown if the other denizens of Tamriel (the Imga, Orcs, etc.) give praise to Clavicus in some shape or form. It is often assumed that the Sload of Thras often make dealings with him. With his sphere including arcane pacts, generally associated with vampirism, lichdom, and necromancy, it wouldn't come as a surprise that the repulsive Sload would venerate Vile.

Certain vampire clans revere Clavicus as a major patron. This is true for the Vampyrum Order of Cyrodiil. While their origins are a complete mystery, one of the most popular, yet obscure theories concerning their origins, is that sometime during the Merethic Era, one of the major Nedic tribes came into contact with the Bloodmatron, Lamae Bal. Upon being infected with vampirism, this certain tribe forged a contract with Clavicus Vile. In exchange for their utmost loyalty, this tribe gained the ability to mask their vampiric features, and blend into society undetected.

Persecution of Clavicus worshippers is often brought on by followers of Zenithar and Julianos, and it is noted that there is some rivalry between the Wishmaster and the God of Trading. Clavicus-Zenithar aggression seems to date back to the early First Era, although other texts indicate that such aggression did not come to pass until the Second Era. The Wishmaster's sphere of deals and pacts often interferes with Zenithar's control over trading and commerce, while his sphere of granting power often interferes with Julianos' domain over literature and wisdom. While Vile does not have any rivals among the other Daedric lords, Molag Bal and Meridia are often thought to have disdain for the Prince of Contracts. Molag Bal for reasons unknown, and Meridia for granting the Cyrodilic vampires the ability to blend in with mortals without arousing suspicion. With the exception of the Mad God, the Black Knight, Ebonarm, is said to despise all Daedra.

While the true name of Clavicus Vile's domain in Oblivion is unknown to mortals, most scholars have agreed that it is often thought to be known as Desideratum. The only knowledge of this realm comes from worshippers of Vile who have visited his realm, and the souls of mortals that reside there. Desideratum has been described as an idyllic countryside, dotted with vibrant merchant utopias, leafy green pastures, and woodland meadows. The air is said to smell of wildflowers, while the sky is blue with soft cottony clouds. The realm is also said to have gentle rain, similar to Azura's Moonshadow. Most inhabitants within this realm are said to be locked in a never-ending cycle of bargaining. Clavicus himself is noted for residing in the Palace of Tranquility, his center of power within Desideratum.

The Daedra that are employed by the Prince of Pacts include Herne, a type of slightly intelligent Daedra that act as hunters, with a possible relation to the common scamp; Skaafin, a type of Daedra that have yellow skin, often vary in size, possess humanoid faces with long white horns, and sometimes have one white eye. Other types of Daedra that are noted within the servitude of the Wishmaster include Dremora merchants, Clannfear that are often used for transportation, Dremora warriors who wear golden armor that changes color when exposed to sunlight, and the wish-granting Daedra known as the Djinn, who are noted for being loyal only to Clavicus, and seem to be the Prince's most favoured servants. Another type of unique Daedra supposedly encountered in Desideratum is the Djinnkyn, a vestige transmogrification between the warmongering Dremora Knights, and the wish-granting Djinn. What makes these Daedra special is their undying loyalty to Vile. From my recent studies, I've been able to deduce that their sole purpose is to serve in Vile's personal guard, while simultaneously maintaining serenity within the more 'essential' merchant cities within his idyllic realm.

Clavicus Vile's summoning day is the 1st of Morningstar, which could explain why he is known as the 'child-god' of this month to the Imperials. Currently, the only known way to summon the Wishmaster is with a bit of coin. It is also said that there is a ritual for opening a portal to the Desideratum. The ingredients are as follows: Orc's blood combined with amber, Unicorn's horn mixed with Hist sap, and the heart of a daedra mixed with ectoplasm. Pour the mixture into a certain symbol, and it is said that a portal to Vile's domain in Oblivion will open. However, this has never been attempted.

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As mentioned above, Clavicus Vile has a Daedric companion named Barbas. So far, scholars are still debating his origins, but it has been revealed that Barbas acts as repository for half of all of Vile's power, and the Wishmaster is notably weaker when they are separated. Some scholars believe that Barbas is also the embodiment of Vile's own conscious, as the curious Hound influences Vile on the concepts of 'right' and 'wrong'.

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The end of this discourse will now speak of the Masque of Clavicus Vile, Clavicus Vile's signature artifact. In short, the Masque itself is a helmet which makes the wearer more popular wherever he or she might go. Clavicus is noted for retaining the artifact without warning. Despite this, the Masque is often sought out by politicians and merchants, who value its abilities of persuasion and influence.