

The Elder Scrolls V: Мирак
Sunhelm greets you with a biting wind and the scent of sea salt. The ship "Northern Maiden" slowly approaches the Raven Rock docks. Bare cliffs tower above the settlement's dark rooftops, and an ashen haze swirls over the distant hills. After a long journey, solid ground is finally beneath your feet, but the sense of dread does not fade: you haven't come here for a vacation. Someone tried to kill you, and the name Miraak has surfaced again and again in tales of mysterious strangers.
On deck, Captain Gyalund Saltbeard tightens the last rope and glances toward the shore with a frown. He clearly wants to finish the job and get back to the sea.

— Here we are. Raven Rock. I'll be honest: I don't like being dragged into this business with some guy named Miraak. I'm a sailor, not a cultist hunter.
He casts a glance toward the pier. Two locals are arguing with a guard. One of them, an elderly Dunmer in work clothes, is waving a folded piece of parchment. Seeing the arriving ship, he suddenly falls silent and tucks the paper into his tunic.

— Hm. See that old man? He's been prowling the harbor for days, asking about outsiders. Yesterday he was trying to pry information out of my crew about whether we're carrying anyone from the mainland. Maybe it's just curiosity. Or maybe it isn't.
As soon as you step onto the pier, the old man heads straight for you. His gaze sweeps over your body, lingers on your face, and he visibly pales.
— You... You aren't from around here, are you? Tell me, did you come here of your own volition?
Before you can answer, the guard grabs him by the elbow.
— Stop harassing the travelers, Adril. You've caused enough trouble with your questioning already.

— Trouble?! And have you been to the Earth Stone lately? People there are working day and night, as if they've lost their minds! And it's all because of him!
He wrenches his arm free and turns to you, lowering his voice.

— Miraak. That's the name I heard in their whispers. They are building something in his name, and then they can't remember how they spent the night. If you are looking for him, you need to see it for yourself. But don't you dare approach the stone without preparation.
The guard's expression darkens, and he rests a hand on the hilt of his weapon.
— Don't listen to him. The old man is obsessed with his delusions. If you want to know what's happening on the island, speak to Advisor Crescius Carrellius or head to the temple. But don't start an interrogation here.
Gyalund steps closer and speaks to you quietly.

— I've delivered you here, and my job is done. But if this Miraak is truly dangerous, I suggest you keep your eyes peeled. The choice is yours.
Adril waits for an answer, nervously clutching the hidden paper. The guard keeps a steady eye on you. Around you, the usual life of the harbor continues, as if no one notices the brewing conflict.

— So, what do you say? You won't just brush me off, will you? If you want the truth, I can show you the way to the Earth Stone. But first, tell me: why are you looking for Miraak? And how do you know his name?