Sex: Male
Faction: Dark Brotherhood
Overall Rating: 6.1
Alignment: Chaotic Evil
Arena Status: Active (S1)
The Elder Scrolls universe is brimming with characters, rich lore, and engaging stories that have enchanted players for decades. Among the most mysterious and captivating figures is Lucien Lachance, a character whose appearances, plot points, and intricacies provide a study in contrast and complexity.
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| Lucien Lachance by GrimweaverArt, Deviant Art |
Lucien Lachance is a central character within the Dark Brotherhood, a guild of assassins in "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion." Known for his calm, cold demeanor, and eloquent speech, Lucien serves as a Speaker for the Black Hand, the ruling body of the Dark Brotherhood. As one of the five highest-ranking members, he plays a pivotal role in the assassination quests that the player embarks upon.
"I am Lucien Lachance, a Speaker for the Dark Brotherhood. And you, you are a killer. Taker of life. A harvester of souls." - Lucien Lachance
Players first encounter Lucien Lachance after completing the quest "A Knife in the Dark," where they must prove their worth by performing an assassination. Lachance is impressed with the player's work, and his interest initiates the Dark Brotherhood questline.
As a Speaker, Lucien Lachance is responsible for communicating directly with the Night Mother, the spiritual leader of the Dark Brotherhood. He guides and assigns the player various assassination missions throughout the game. His calm authority and dark elegance are well captured in his dialogue:
"Your path is clear. Send Rufio to his death, and the Dark Brotherhood will embrace you as family." - Lucien Lachance
The plot thickens as a series of betrayals within the Dark Brotherhood comes to light. The player eventually discovers that there is a traitor among the Black Hand, leading to a series of shocking revelations and intense gameplay moments.
It becomes clear that Lucien has been framed by the true traitor, and the player finds him being tortured by his former comrades, falsely accused of treachery. In a tragic twist, the once-commanding figure is rendered helpless, and his end comes swiftly.
"Know that I was, in the end, truly loyal. Come. Take my hand." - Lucien Lachance, final words
Lucien's story doesn't end with his death. His spirit returns in "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" as a summonable Spectral Assassin. The way he is remembered varies among the Dark Brotherhood members, some with reverence, others with disdain.
His legacy serves as a haunting reminder of trust, betrayal, and the unforgiving nature of the Dark Brotherhood. Lucien's character, both in life and death, offers a nuanced look at power, loyalty, and the moral ambiguities that make the Elder Scrolls universe so compelling.
The character of Lucien Lachance stands as a striking embodiment of the shadowy world of the Dark Brotherhood. From his initial appearance as a guide and mentor to his tragic demise and spectral afterlife, he is a multi-faceted character whose story is interwoven with themes of power, treachery, and redemption.
He is not merely a vehicle for quests but a character with depth and ambiguity, providing insights into the dark and complex world of Tamriel's most feared assassin's guild. His elegant speech, authoritative presence, and ultimate vulnerability make him a fascinating study, and his legacy continues to resonate with players long after his death.
The tale of Lucien Lachance is one of the memorable sagas within the Elder Scrolls universe, and his influence extends beyond mere gameplay, reaching into the very heart of storytelling in video games. His voice still echoes in the shadows, a ghostly reminder of a world where power and peril walk hand in hand.
"In the Dark Brotherhood, I found acceptance, love, and my life's true purpose." - Lucien Lachance
Lucien Lachance's Raw Power
Lucien Lachance's "Raw Power" within the Elder Scrolls universe is a blend of the physical strength, skills, and mysterious magical abilities often associated with the members of the Dark Brotherhood. He's not a god or demigod, nor does he wield immense magical power like some mages or sorcerers within the fantasy genre. Rather, his strength lies in his assassin's prowess, precision, and a touch of the arcane.
As a Speaker for the Black Hand, Lucien's combat abilities are undoubtedly significant. He's well-trained in the arts of stealth, subterfuge, and combat. He wields daggers with deadly accuracy and can likely utilize some form of destruction or illusion magic, as is common among assassins in the Elder Scrolls universe.
"I am the bane of the living. My arrows shall claim your wretched soul." - Lucien Lachance (Spectral form)
His raw power is, however, somewhat shrouded in mystery. There's no grand demonstration of his physical or magical prowess within the games themselves, and his abilities are more implied through his high-ranking position within the Dark Brotherhood rather than explicitly displayed. His spectral form in "Skyrim" gives some hints at his capabilities, demonstrating a supernatural strength that transcends his mortal form.
Comparatively, when considering the pantheon of characters across all fantasy universes, Lucien's raw power doesn't rank at the top. Characters like Gandalf, Rand al'Thor, or Anomander Rake exhibit greater innate power, whether magical or physical. Lucien's power is constrained by his mortality and the earthly bounds of his profession as an assassin.
Given the above considerations, Lucien's raw power might be rated at a 6 out of 10. His strength, agility, and presumed magical abilities position him above average when considering all fantasy characters, but he doesn't reach the level of demigods, powerful wizards, or mythical beings. He is, after all, an embodiment of human capability, sharpened to a deadly edge through training and discipline.
This rating captures Lucien's expert mastery of his assassin's craft while acknowledging that his power doesn't scale to the near-omnipotent levels exhibited by some fantasy characters. His raw power lies more in his mortal skills, his deft execution of his duties, and the shadow of mystique that surrounds the Dark Brotherhood, rather than in overwhelming magical might or supernatural strength.
Lucien Lachance's Tactical Ability
Lucien Lachance's tactical ability is best understood through the cunning and strategic mindset he employs as a Speaker for the Black Hand within the Dark Brotherhood. His role in the organization requires the deployment of tactics, planning, and execution that few could match. From recruiting potential assassins to orchestrating elaborate killings, Lucien’s ability to strategize and coordinate complex operations is vital.
One remarkable aspect of Lucien’s tactical ability lies in his recruitment of the player's character in "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion." Recognizing potential and acting upon it with precise timing showcases his skill in identifying and utilizing resources to further the goals of the Dark Brotherhood.
"You sleep rather soundly for a murderer. That's good. You'll need a clear conscience for what I'm about to propose." - Lucien Lachance
His leadership also extends to managing the Purification of the Cheydinhal Sanctuary, a deeply complicated task that requires tactful handling, strategic foresight, and unflinching resolve. The planning and orchestration of these tasks emphasize Lucien’s mastery over complex and layered strategy.
However, it's worth noting that Lucien’s tactical ability is not infallible. His failure to identify the true traitor within the Black Hand, leading to his own demise, reflects a critical lapse in judgment.
"The traitor somehow switched your orders, and has been sending you to the wrong dead drop! You and I have been betrayed, my friend." - Lucien Lachance
Comparing Lucien's tactical ability to characters across all fantasy universes, it’s evident that while he excels in planning and execution within his specific field, he does not necessarily rise to the level of grand military strategists or leaders who command vast armies and empires.
Taking all these factors into account, Lucien Lachance’s tactical ability could be rated as a 7.5 out of 10. This acknowledges his expert handling of strategic matters within the context of assassination, subterfuge, and the particular goals of the Dark Brotherhood, while recognizing that his tactics might not scale to larger, more complex theaters of war or against characters renowned for their strategic brilliance.
His ranking reflects the duality of his sharp intellect and meticulous planning, juxtaposed with certain limitations and the uniquely specialized nature of his abilities within the world of stealth and assassination.
Lucien Lachance's Influence
Lucien Lachance's influence within the dark and secretive world of the Dark Brotherhood is both profound and pivotal. As a Speaker for the Black Hand, he not only orchestrates assassinations but also wields the authority to recruit, instruct, and lead.
His influence is keenly felt in "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion," where he reaches out to the player's character, recognizing their potential for the dark arts. His persuasive ability is captured in his words:
"You prefer silence, then? As do I, my dear child. As do I."
Lucien's charisma and leadership are instrumental in guiding assassins. He's able to mold them, teach them, and steer them towards the fulfillment of the Night Mother's will. This requires not just the mere delegation of tasks but the influencing of minds and hearts.
Yet his influence isn't universal or unbounded. Within the shadowy corridors of the Dark Brotherhood, he is a figure of authority and respect. Outside this context, his influence wanes. The very nature of his work means that his ability to sway others is confined to a specific domain.
A critical point regarding his influence is his failure to prevent betrayal within the Black Hand. This misjudgment and inability to control the situation led to his own downfall, highlighting the limitations of his influence.
"I was...mistaken. You are... the best the Dark Brotherhood... has to offer." - Lucien Lachance
In comparison to all fantasy characters across various universes, Lucien’s influence is specialized. While his persuasion, leadership, and manipulation within the sphere of the Dark Brotherhood are significant, they may not translate well into broader contexts or against characters with grander scales of influence.
Taking these considerations into account, Lucien Lachance's influence can be rated at 6 out of 10. This reflects his substantial sway within a specific organization, coupled with limitations in scope and the ultimate vulnerability of his position. His influence is neither the weakest nor the strongest in the grand tapestry of fantasy characters, but it’s undeniably compelling within the niche he inhabits.
Lucien Lachance's Resilience
Lucien Lachance's resilience, both physical and psychological, is a nuanced aspect of his character in "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion."
On the one hand, Lucien's psychological resilience is highly notable. Throughout his life within the Dark Brotherhood, he must deal with the most sordid and brutal aspects of human nature. In a world filled with treachery, violence, and political maneuvering, Lucien navigates with a cold and calculated demeanor. His undeterred pursuit of the Night Mother's will and the calm with which he manages the lethal operations of the Dark Brotherhood showcase a mental fortitude that few possess.
However, Lucien's resilience also has its limits, particularly when it comes to physical endurance and recovery from setbacks. The false accusation of betrayal leads to his torture and death, something he could neither escape nor overcome. His haunting last words reveal both his acceptance of his fate and his loyalty to the Brotherhood:
"I was...mistaken. You are... the best the Dark Brotherhood... has to offer."
Lucien's legacy as a spectral assassin later in the game may be seen as a form of resilience. Even death could not entirely remove him from the fabric of the world. As a spirit, he continues to serve Sithis and the Night Mother.
Weighing all these factors, Lucien's resilience can be seen as a balance of significant mental strength but clear physical vulnerabilities and ultimate failure to recover from a significant setback. In comparison to other fantasy characters across universes, who may possess supernatural abilities to heal or overcome death, Lucien's resilience is remarkable but not extraordinary.
Therefore, a rating of 5 out of 10 seems appropriate. Lucien's resilience is admirable, particularly in his mental constitution and posthumous persistence. However, his inability to recover from physical harm or to prevent his downfall due to betrayal marks clear limitations in this attribute. His resilience, while intriguing in its complexity, falls within an average range when considered against the vast landscape of fantasy characters.
Lucien Lachance's Versatility
Lucien Lachance's versatility within "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion" is seen in the many roles he fills and the various skills he employs in the Dark Brotherhood.
Lucien's primary role within the Brotherhood is that of an assassin. Trained to eliminate targets with a wide array of weapons, poisons, and stealth techniques, Lucien is adept at adapting to various combat scenarios. Lucien's leadership of the Dark Brotherhood is marked by a careful balance of discipline and understanding. He provides guidance and instruction, setting up complex assignments for his underlings. His leadership quote portrays this well: "Fulfill the contract, and your path is clear. Betray the Brotherhood, and your heart will burn in a thousand hells." Lucien's ability to strategize and plan is exceptional, as seen in the way he handles various assassination contracts, coordinating efforts across Cyrodiil, and dealing with internal and external threats to the Brotherhood. He identifies potential recruits and brings them into the fold of the Dark Brotherhood, serving as a critical link between the Night Mother and her children. His words often serve to entice and persuade: "I am here to welcome you to the family."Even in death, Lucien continues to guide the player as a spectral assassin, showcasing his adaptability even beyond life. Though he eventua lly falls, Lucien exhibits resourcefulness and adaptability in navigating a world rife with danger, political intrigue, and betrayal.
Despite these multifaceted roles and abilities, Lucien is still bound by the human limitations within the world of Tamriel. His skills and adaptability are exceptional within the scope of a human assassin but do not extend into the supernatural or magical realms that might be present in other fantasy characters.
Considering Lucien's variety of skills, leadership qualities, adaptability in various scenarios, and limitations as a human character, a rating of 6 out of 10 might be an accurate reflection of his versatility. In comparison to all fantasy characters across universes, he demonstrates a solid range of abilities, but his lack of supernatural or highly specialized powers places him above average but not among the most versatile characters in the genre.
Lucien Lachance's Alignment
In terms of alignment, Lucien's position is nuanced. He operates outside the law, adhering instead to the unique code of the Dark Brotherhood, which often conflicts with the legal systems in place. The acts of assassination, manipulation, and serving the Night Mother's often dark and cruel whims put Lucien squarely in the evil alignment.
Thus, Lucien Lachance's alignment can be classified as Chaotic Evil, as he pursues his objectives without regard for legal boundaries and is involved in morally reprehensible acts that serve his own or the Dark Brotherhood's interests. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Lucien's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #96 (of 107) |
Overall Conclusion on Lucien Lachance and Position Across Planes of Existence
Lucien Lachance, the enigmatic Speaker of the Dark Brotherhood in "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion," possesses an allure that transcends his physical attributes or magical prowess. Analyzing his position across different planes of existence offers a richer perspective on his character.
Lucien's physical strength and combat abilities are certainly competent, especially for an assassin, but not exceptional within the broader scope of fantasy characters. He lacks the magical or supernatural strength that would raise him to the higher echelons. As a master tactician within the Dark Brotherhood, Lucien demonstrates an acute ability to strategize, plan, and execute intricate assassinations. His leadership and cunning are worthy of note but do not elevate him to the top tier of strategic minds.
Lucien's capacity to lead, inspire, and recruit within the Dark Brotherhood is evident. However, his sphere of influence is mostly confined to this secretive organization, limiting his reach and effectiveness compared to more globally influential figures.
While his survival and persistence in his role as Speaker are admirable, Lucien's resilience is not extraordinary. His eventual downfall further dampens this attribute, demonstrating that he is not invulnerable to betrayal or defeat. Lucien's adaptability and range of skills position him as an above-average character, but his human limitations and specialized focus on assassination prevent him from being a paragon of versatility.
The overall rating of 6.1 is a fitting representation of Lucien Lachance, reflecting an above-average standing but not amongst the most powerful in the fantasy realm. His appeal is perhaps more in his mystique, his unwavering devotion to the Dark Brotherhood, and his complex morality than in his raw power or broad influence. Within the context of "The Elder Scrolls," he is a figure of intrigue, but when expanded to the grander stage of all fantasy characters, his lack of otherworldly abilities or unparalleled strategic genius renders him as admirable but not transcendent.
His position across different planes of existence illustrates the challenge of balancing unique and specialized abilities with more general competencies. Lucien thrives in his particular role and environment but lacks the universal attributes that might elevate him to the ranks of legendary or mythical figures in fantasy. This dichotomy enriches his character, making him relatable and grounded, yet enigmatic and compelling.
In conclusion, Lucien Lachance's 6.1 rating aptly encapsulates a character who shines brightly in his own universe but whose light dims slightly when viewed against the dazzling array of beings that populate the vast world of fantasy. His narrative and thematic resonance will likely continue to captivate fans of "The Elder Scrolls" and serve as a testament to the multifaceted nature of characters within the genre. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated power ranking across all planes of existence. This will only be sortable on desktop viewing. The below table shows a summary within the same plane of existence of this article.
