The Shadowy Truth: Unmasking the Dark Brotherhood Traitor

The question of who betrayed the Dark Brotherhood is a pivotal point in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. The answer, unveiled through a compelling questline, is Mathieu Bellamont, a seemingly trusted Speaker within the organization. Bellamont’s betrayal wasn’t born of greed or power lust, but a desperate quest for vengeance rooted in the Brotherhood’s past. He sought to dismantle the very organization that he believed robbed him of his family and peace of mind.

Mathieu Bellamont: A Mask of Loyalty Hiding a Heart of Revenge

Mathieu Bellamont presented himself as a devoted member of the Dark Brotherhood, rising through the ranks to become a respected Speaker. This facade, however, concealed a burning desire for revenge. Bellamont’s mother had been assassinated by the Dark Brotherhood many years prior, a truth he discovered later in life. Driven by grief and a need for retribution, he orchestrated a complex plan to destroy the Brotherhood from within. His plan involved manipulating Lucien Lachance, another high-ranking member, and ultimately leading to the near-destruction of the Cheydinhal Sanctuary. Bellamont’s story underscores the themes of revenge, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of grief that are prevalent throughout the Elder Scrolls universe.

The Purification and Lachance’s Fate

Bellamont skillfully manipulated events to make Lucien Lachance appear as the traitor. He subtly diverted contracts and sowed discord within the ranks, feeding Lachance false information and framing him for betrayals. This culminated in Lachance ordering the Purification of the Cheydinhal Sanctuary – a desperate measure meant to weed out the supposed traitors. However, this act itself was part of Bellamont’s plan, as it weakened the Sanctuary and placed its members in a vulnerable position. After Bellamont successfully framed Lucien, Lachance was brutally murdered by the Black Hand, reinforcing the false narrative of his treason. The graphic display of Lachance’s corpse served as a chilling warning and further cemented Bellamont’s control over the remaining members.

Unveiling the Truth: The “Honor Thy Mother” Quest

The truth behind Bellamont’s betrayal is revealed during the final quest of the Dark Brotherhood storyline in Oblivion, “Honor Thy Mother“. This quest leads the player to Fort Farragut, where they discover Bellamont’s secret lair and the truth behind his motivations. Confronting Bellamont allows the player to understand the depth of his pain and the meticulous planning that went into his deception. It’s a powerful moment that highlights the moral ambiguities within the Dark Brotherhood and forces the player to confront the consequences of their actions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Dark Brotherhood Traitor

Here are 15 frequently asked questions providing deeper insights and context:

1. Was Lucien Lachance truly a traitor to the Dark Brotherhood? No, Lucien Lachance was innocent. He was manipulated and framed by Mathieu Bellamont to appear as the traitor, ultimately leading to his tragic demise.

2. What was Mathieu Bellamont’s motive for betraying the Dark Brotherhood? Bellamont sought revenge for the assassination of his mother, who was killed by the Dark Brotherhood many years before the events of Oblivion.

3. What is the Purification of the Dark Brotherhood? The Purification is an extreme measure ordered by a Speaker of the Black Hand to eliminate traitors or those suspected of compromising the organization. It involves the assassination of all members within a specific Sanctuary, except for those deemed above suspicion.

4. How did Mathieu Bellamont manipulate Lucien Lachance? Bellamont used misinformation, planted false evidence, and diverted contracts to make it appear as though Lachance was betraying the Black Hand.

5. What happens to Mathieu Bellamont after his betrayal is revealed? The player has the option to either kill Bellamont or allow him to live. Regardless of the player’s choice, Bellamont’s plans are ultimately foiled.

6. Can you prevent the Purification of the Cheydinhal Sanctuary? No, the Purification is a mandatory event in the Dark Brotherhood questline and cannot be avoided.

7. Is it possible to join the Dark Brotherhood in Skyrim after destroying it in Oblivion? Yes, the events of Oblivion significantly weakened the Dark Brotherhood, but it was not completely destroyed. A new Sanctuary exists in Skyrim.

8. Who leads the Dark Brotherhood in Skyrim? The Dark Brotherhood in Skyrim is led by Astrid, a cunning and ambitious assassin.

9. Does Astrid betray the player in Skyrim? Yes, Astrid does betray the player as part of a power struggle within the Dark Brotherhood.

10. What are the consequences of destroying the Dark Brotherhood in Skyrim? Destroying the Dark Brotherhood initiates a unique questline where you systematically eliminate the members of the Skyrim Sanctuary, and will be rewarded by the Penitus Oculatus.

11. What are the benefits of joining the Dark Brotherhood in Skyrim? Joining the Dark Brotherhood offers access to unique quests, rewards, and a compelling storyline filled with intrigue and morally ambiguous choices. The Games Learning Society could create a great curriculum based on the player’s choices.

12. What is Shadowmere, and how is it connected to the Dark Brotherhood? Shadowmere is a unique and powerful horse gifted to the player during the Dark Brotherhood questline in Oblivion and reappears in Skyrim with unique powers.

13. Can you marry Muiri in Skyrim? Yes, Muiri is a marriageable NPC in Skyrim. You must complete her associated Dark Brotherhood quest to unlock the marriage option.

14. Does going to jail in Oblivion have any consequences? Yes, going to jail in Oblivion can result in skill level decreases, making it beneficial to escape or avoid imprisonment.

15. What happened to the Dark Brotherhood between Oblivion and Skyrim? The Dark Brotherhood suffered significant losses and was nearly wiped out in the 200 years between the events of Oblivion and Skyrim.

The tale of Mathieu Bellamont serves as a stark reminder of the Dark Brotherhood’s internal conflicts and the ever-present threat of betrayal. The consequences of his actions resonate throughout the Elder Scrolls lore, shaping the organization’s future and leaving a lasting impact on the world. Games, such as Oblivion, provide a great platform for learning. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.