Elder Kings Expanded: Blackdrake Update
This update for Elder Kings Expanded introduces an entirely new start date set in 2E 527, centered on Durcorach’s rise from Reach chieftain to conqueror of Cyrodiil.
Durcorach’s campaign is supported by new invasion wars, story mechanics, and the Greatest of Chieftains lifestyle trait, offering two distinct paths toward conquest. The rise and fall of the Longhouse Emperors can also unfold during earlier start dates, with Durcorach emerging around his historical date to begin his conquest of the Reach.
There are four bookmark scenarios in total: Blackdrake Rising, Mountains of Strife, Shadowed Courts, and Dimming Shores. Each focuses on a different region of Tamriel during the Blackdrake Invasion. Numerous historical characters, dynasties, houses, coats of arms, nicknames, portraits, and DNA have been added to bring the period to life.
Scalecaller Peak has also been added as a new county under Plague Concocter Nathien Mortieu. Through a new decision chain, Nathien can develop a devastating plague, gain unique regiments, and eventually awaken Zaan the Scalecaller. A player can keep her as a powerful courtier or surrender everything and continue the game as Zaan herself.
The update also adds Ogre and Gremlin cultures based on Jam’s New Culture Mod, including a unique Gremlin faith and new Men-at-Arms. The Systres’ historical setup has also been restored to better reflect established lore.
While this update greatly expands the 2E 527 start date, its foundations were already present in the Elder Kings 2 files. My sincere thanks to the Elder Kings 2 team for their original groundwork. This update builds upon their work rather than creating the setting entirely from scratch.