Mastering Destruction Magic: A Guide to the Best Trainer in Oblivion
The arcane arts of Destruction magic in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion are powerful tools, capable of unleashing devastating elemental attacks upon your foes. However, mastering these skills requires diligent practice and, more importantly, the guidance of a skilled instructor. While several individuals can teach you the basics, one trainer stands out as the definitive choice for advancing your Destruction prowess: Bralsa Andaren.
Bralsa Andaren: The Master of Destruction
Bralsa Andaren is the master trainer for Destruction magic in Oblivion. This puts her above all others when it comes to advancing your skill beyond the advanced levels. She’s not found within the walls of a city or a mage’s guild, but rather, she makes her home in the wilds. You can find Bralsa northwest of Skingrad, specifically located just northwest of the Shrine of Sanguine. This remote location speaks volumes about the dedication and focus she puts into the study of Destruction, away from the distractions of civilized society.
When you finally track her down, you will find that her methods of teaching are not conventional. Unlike other trainers, Bralsa will not simply start training you. Instead, she presents a challenge to test your resolve. You need to demonstrate your dedication to the destructive arts by returning to her with 20 bear pelts. This task is not for the faint of heart, and it ensures that only those truly serious about learning Destruction magic are able to access her skills. Once this task is complete, you will gain access to her master-level training.
Why Choose Bralsa?
Bralsa Andaren is the best Destruction trainer in Oblivion for several reasons:
- Master-Level Training: She is the only character who can bring your Destruction skill from level 75 (Expert) all the way to level 100 (Master).
- Challenging Task: Obtaining the bear pelts is a worthy test that makes you work for her expert guidance. It serves as a good introduction to the grind required to reach high-levels.
- Unique Location: Her location far from cities symbolizes her dedication and her knowledge of destructive magic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who else can train Destruction magic?
While Bralsa is the master trainer, other trainers can help you level up in Destruction magic before reaching the expert stage. These include:
- Volanaro: Located in the Arcane University, he is an expert trainer.
- Faralda: She is an expert trainer located in the College of Winterhold. While she is not in Oblivion, she is a good option in Skyrim for training Destruction.
- There are also a few other low-level trainers in other cities.
2. How do I find Bralsa Andaren?
She’s located in the wilderness northwest of Skingrad, specifically northwest of the Shrine of Sanguine. You can find her in the area by heading north from Skingrad, and keeping an eye out for the Shrine.
3. What is the requirement to start training with Bralsa?
Before Bralsa will train you, you must bring her 20 bear pelts.
4. How can I level up Destruction magic quickly?
One way to level up Destruction magic quickly is to create a low-cost fire damage spell at the Altar of Spellmaking (found at the Arcane University after completing the mages guild questline). This low-cost spell can be repeatedly cast to quickly increase your skill.
5. Does Willpower increase Destruction damage?
No, Willpower does not directly increase Destruction damage. It increases your Magicka pool, which means more spells can be cast before needing to rest or replenish your mana. Willpower also aids in the recovery of Magicka.
6. What is the strongest item in Oblivion?
The Apotheosis staff, sold by Rindir, is the strongest vanilla weapon. For melee weapons, the highest level Nerveshatter has the highest base damage.
7. What is the most damaging weapon?
The Mace of Doom generally does the most damage. The enchanted swords Goldbrand, Dawn/Duskfang, and Chillrend do a lot of damage as well. For single-handed swords, Umbra has the highest base damage.
8. Who is the main villain in Oblivion?
Mehrunes Dagon, the Daedric Prince of Destruction, is the main antagonist and responsible for the Oblivion Crisis.
9. Who is the final boss in Oblivion?
You face Mehrunes Dagon in the final battle of the Oblivion main questline.
10. What are the best birthsigns in Oblivion?
The best birthsigns are often considered to be:
- The Atronach: Offers a massive boost to your Magicka but has its drawbacks.
- The Warrior: Provides combat based bonuses
- The Lady: Provides bonuses to personality and endurance.
11. What is the best staff to make?
A staff enchanted with Paralyze is considered one of the most versatile and effective.
12. What are the best spells in Oblivion?
Some of the most useful spells include:
- Paralyze
- Disintegrate Weapon
- Water Breathing
- Restore Willpower
- Cure Disease
- Open Lock
13. What is the most powerful armor?
Daedric armor, especially with elemental shield enchantments, is the most powerful in terms of defense.
14. Where is the best sword in Oblivion?
Chillrend (at its highest level) is often considered the best sword due to its high base damage and enchantment.
15. What is the level cap in Oblivion?
The soft level cap is generally considered to be level 50. However, it is possible to go much higher by carefully managing major skills at character creation, or with mods.
Conclusion
While many individuals can teach the basics of Destruction, Bralsa Andaren stands as the pinnacle of training in Oblivion. Her remote location and unique task make her training feel earned, and her ability to take you from expert to master is essential for a true mage of destruction. If you wish to master the destructive arts, make your way northwest of Skingrad, and be ready with your 20 bear pelts.