19: Following a Lead

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Guide - Dark Brotherhood

19: Following a Lead

Lucien wants you to wait by the next dead drop location to discover who has been swapping the dead drop orders. Head to the city of Anvil and, as instructed, find a spot close to the barrel behind the statue and wait. Soon enough, a figure will approach the barrel. Confront him; he explains that a man in a robe ordered him to plant the false dead drop orders. He believes that the robed man lives in the cellar of the lighthouse outside of Anvil, and recommends speaking to Ulfgar Fog-Eye, the lighthouse keeper.

Travel to the Anvil Lighthouse once you're done conversing with the Wood Elf. Speak to Ulfgar, and select the second dialogue option. Tell him that you are with the Dark Brotherhood and he will hand over the Lighthouse Cellar Key without any trouble. Locate the wooden door into the cellar, use the Lighthouse Cellar Key to unlock the door, and head inside to make a gruesome discovery.

A grisly scene awaits you in the Anvil Lighthouse Cellar.

Investigate the blood-covered cellar, and look around for a locked wooden door. There is a crazed dog behind this door, so be ready with a weapon before entering. In this room, you'll find the Traitor's Diary, and his Mother's Head on a plate. Read the diary to learn that the traitor is a member of the Black Hand, and is planning to kill the Night Mother.

With this information, travel to the Applewatch Farm near Bruma to meet with Lucien. Upon entering, you will be greeted by Arquen, who'll give you the Black Hand Robes and hood. One of these Black Hand members is the traitor. One of the people in this room is the traitor. Since Ungolim, former Listener of the Black Hand, has been killed, the remaining members of the Black Hand must awaken the Night Mother to appoint a new Listener. This is exactly what the traitor wants. You'll need to speak to Arquen between midnight and 3:00AM to complete the quest.