Why the Aldmeri Dominion Must Return in Elder Scrolls 6 for Epic Storytelling!

The franchise in question has never known want for success, with its previous titles selling millions of copies and the highly anticipated release of the yet-to-be-released The Elder Scrolls 6 on the horizon (hopefully arriving sooner rather than later). This upcoming title has fans and gamers alike eagerly seeking any scrap of information, no matter how minute, about its impending arrival. However, with nothing beyond a trailer – a trailer that was released nearly seven years ago – having been revealed thus far, we are left to speculate, rumor, and hold out hope.

Among the many requests for what the next Elder Scrolls should encompass, there is one particular subject that warrants reappearance in the series: the Aldmeri Dominion. Whether it makes a minor or significant impact on the game, this faction deserves to return as a key element of the storyline.

In a world such as Tamriel, brimming with endless tales, tradition, and wisdom, it’s also marked by an overabundance of strife and power struggles. Among the factions captivated or propelled by power, none can rival the allure of the Aldmeri Dominion. With roots dating back to the Second Era, this faction has been instrumental in some of Tamriel’s most significant and destructive events throughout its history. To this day, they remain influential, impacting not only the continent but also the lives of those who reside within it. However, one may wonder, who are they?

The Aldermi Dominion is one of the Strongest Empires to Have Come to Tamriel

An Elven Empire

The Aldmeri Dominion is an ancient elven empire, regarded as one of Tamriel’s most powerful in both past and present times. The name Aldmeri means “homeland of the elves,” which perfectly encapsulates this empire made up predominantly of these enchanting beings.

The Aldmeri Dominion is an elven empire
Their primary goal is to reassert elven dominance on Tamriel
They have a history that reaches back all the way to the Second Era

The aim of the Aldmeri Dominion, whether in the past or present, has consistently been: to reestablish elven supremacy over Tamriel. It was actually the elves who were among the earliest inhabitants of Tamriel, predating humans. Furthermore, some of the first true empires originated from the elves, specifically the Ayleids.

Regardless of the situation, the Aldmeri Dominion consistently prioritizes elven superiority across Tamriel throughout its history, dating back to the Second Era and continuing up until the present Fourth Era, which is the latest period in the timeline of The Elder Scrolls.

The Aldmeri Dominion Has Appeared Multiple Times in The Elder Scrolls History

From Past to Present

Throughout various points in Tamriel’s past, the Aldmeri Dominion has emerged on multiple occasions. Each emergence saw them seeking peace, but through a distinct form of elven rule. As outlined in The Elder Scrolls’ lore, there have been three distinct manifestations of the Aldmeri Dominion across history.

During the Second Era’s Interregnum, often considered one of Tamriel’s most tumultuous and unpredictable eras, there was no sovereign or ruling body in control. Instead, various rulers, groups, and ambitious conquerors vied for power, aiming to seize the Ruby Throne. Among these factions was the Aldmeri Dominion – a confederation that included the Altmer (High Elves), Bosmer (Wood Elves), and Khajiit.

There have been multiple iterations of the Aldmeri Dominion throughout Tamriel’s history
The first Aldmeri Dominion came from Ayrenn during the Second Era
The second Aldmeri Dominion came during the end of the Interregnum and was defeated
The third Aldmeri Dominion came after the Third Era and brought civil war to Tamriel

The Altmer, under their queen Ayrenn Arana, took the lead. After ascending to the throne of Alinor and journeying through Tamriel’s diverse regions, Queen Ayrenn, witnessing the strife and unrest everywhere, brought together the Altmer, Bosmer, and Khajiit to establish the very first Aldmeri Dominion. They were a significant force during the Alliance War, which is extensively covered in The Elder Scrolls Online.

During the Second Era’s final stages, precisely in the year 2E 830, the Aldmeri Dominion reemerged. At this juncture, the High Elves (Altmer) began to compel other races to unite under their rule, as demonstrated by their invasion of Valenwood. This was also the period when the Thalmor came into being, serving as the Dominion’s ruling body. Through the Thalmor, the Dominion grew in power and influence, a task made simpler due to the turbulence of the Interregnum.

Despite their grand aspirations, they were ultimately foiled by a single individual and his vast empire, which eclipsed theirs significantly. It was this man and the Septim dynasty that not only vanquished the Aldmeri Dominion, but also incorporated them and other races into the union, thus concluding the Second Era and ushering in the Third Era.

After the devastating Oblivion Crisis, which marked the conclusion of the Third Era and the Septim Dynasty, the third renewal of the Aldmeri Dominion took place. The Oblivion Crisis brought about a level of turmoil and disorder in Tamriel that had never been witnessed before during its history.

This upheaval would eventually benefit the Thalmor, as it provided an opportunity for them to rebuild the Aldmeri Dominion. During this period, they fortified their grip over the Summerset Isles, Valenwood, and Elsweyr – territories of their allies, the Bosmer and Khajiit. Subsequently, they severed ties with the rest of Tamriel and its emerging Empire, led by the new Mede dynasty. After some years had passed, they re-entered the Empire, initiating a conflict.

The Aldmeri Dominion is Currently the Most Powerful Faction in Tamriel

Elven Supremacy

In the Fourth Era, following years of self-imposed exile from Tamriel, the Aldmeri Dominion emerged from isolation and resumed hostilities against the Empire. This third incarnation of the Dominion marked their return, initiating the Great War – a conflict where they clashed directly with the Empire. Unlike previous attempts, this time, the Dominion managed to establish an elven-centric rule, to some degree achieving their goal of dominance.

The Great War claimed countless lives on both sides, but the Empire suffered the most severe consequences. Following the Oblivion Crisis, the Empire was left severely weakened and disorganized. Even with the establishment of the Mede dynasty, Tamriel was still grappling with the fallout from the crisis. This instability provided an opportune moment for the Aldmer Dominion to attack. Initially, the Empire managed to hold its ground, but it became evident that the Dominion possessed a clear advantage.

The third Aldmeri Dominion would bring war to the Empire
With the signing of the White-Gold Concordat, the Dominion all but hold complete dominion over Tamriel
This could paint them as a major antagonist in The Elder Scrolls 6

A truce was suggested, leading to the signing of the White-Gold Concordat – a peace agreement that stirred much controversy since then. Upon signing, the Dominion effectively controlled Tamriel almost entirely, as many of the treaty’s conditions favored them significantly. The Blades and Talos worship were abolished, southern Hammerfell seceded to the Dominion, and the treaty gave the Dominion an iron grip over Tamriel. In essence, the Dominion, governed by the Thalmor, gained control over Tamriel, becoming virtually unchallenged on the continent. The Empire, the only entity capable of counteracting them, was left with no choice but to comply with their demands.

Despite the conclusion of “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” and its subsequent events, as well as the current state of affairs with the Aldmeri Dominion, it is quite plausible that they will remain a significant force to reckon with by the time The Elder Scrolls 6 rolls around. In fact, there’s a strong possibility that they could serve as the main adversary in the game.

2025-04-21 06:36