If you’ve ever wanted to sneak, steal, and shadow your way through Cyrodiil, joining the Thieves Guild in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is a must. This guide will walk you through exactly how to join, where to start, and what you get out of being part of this iconic criminal organization.
How to Join the Thieves Guild in Oblivion
You can’t just walk up and sign up for the Thieves Guild—you’ve gotta hear about it through rumors or get caught doing crimes. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Hear the Rumors
Once your character has committed at least one crime, guards and citizens will begin to mention a mysterious figure named Gray Fox. You’ll need to ask around town and choose the “Gray Fox” topic under rumors to unlock more information.
Most people in Imperial City, especially in the Waterfront District, will start bringing it up if your infamy is at least one.
Step 2: Go to the Garden of Dareloth
After hearing enough chatter, you’ll get a journal entry guiding you to the Garden of Dareloth in the Imperial City Waterfront. Show up between 11 PM and 3 AM, and you’ll meet Armand Christophe, a recruiter for the Thieves Guild.
Tip: If you’re having trouble finding it, look behind the houses in the southeast corner of the Waterfront. It’s near Methredhel’s house.
Step 3: Beat the Competition
Armand will tell you that you’re competing against two other hopeful thieves—Amusei and Methredhel—to steal a diary from a woman named Amantius Allectus. The first person to steal it and bring it back wins.
• Pro Tip: Methredhel will likely beat you there if you head straight to the location. Instead, follow her, then pickpocket the diary off of her to win easily.
Step 4: Officially Join the Guild
Bring the diary back to Armand and you’ll be accepted into the Thieves Guild. Congratulations, sneakster!
Benefits of Joining the Thieves Guild in Oblivion
Now that you’re in, here’s what you gain:
- Fences: You’ll gain access to fences who will buy stolen items. This is the only way to sell stolen goods in Oblivion. The more you rank up in the guild, the more fences you unlock.
- Thieves Guild Quests: A full questline awaits you, eventually leading to the legendary Gray Cowl of Nocturnal.
- Bounty Removal: If you get in trouble, Armand and other Doyens can remove your bounty—for a fee.
- Protection from Guards: As long as you’re loyal to the guild, they’ve got your back. Killing fellow members, however, will get you booted out.
What to Do Next
Now that you’re in the Thieves Guild, you can begin working your way up the ranks. Start fencing stolen items and talking to Armand Christophe, S’Krivva, and Ongar the World-Weary for jobs and fence access.
You’ll also want to level your Sneak, Security, and Acrobatics skills to make the most of your new role. Check out this guide if you want to level up fast in Oblivion.
And hey, if you’re looking to sell more loot, don’t miss our full guide on how to sell items in Oblivion.
Final Tips
- You can rejoin the guild once if you get kicked out—just pay a hefty fine and complete a quest.
- Stealth gear like Shrouded Armor or Gray Cowl of Nocturnal (later on) will be your best friends.
- Always be sneaky and avoid unnecessary violence—this is the Thieves Guild, not the Fighter’s Guild!