Where To Buy Lockpicks Oblivion
Alright, my friend, let's talk about lockpicks in Oblivion. Because, let's be honest, what's an adventure without a little (digital) light-fingered fun? Seriously, picking locks is practically a right in Tamriel! (Disclaimer: We're talking about the game. Don't go trying this in real life.)
You're staring longingly at that locked chest, aren't you? You just know it's got some sweet loot waiting for you inside. Maybe it's a shiny new sword, a stack of gold, or even... a really nice loaf of bread. Hey, sometimes you just need bread, okay?
So, Where Do You Snag These Lockpicks?
Fear not, aspiring thief! There are several places you can stock up. First, the most obvious... and sometimes the trickiest...
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1. General Goods Merchants
These guys are your bread and butter (see, bread again!). Most general goods stores throughout Cyrodiil will have lockpicks in stock. Think of them as the fantasy equivalent of your local corner store, but instead of milk and lottery tickets, it's potions and lockpicks. Sweet!
Pro Tip: Check the larger cities like the Imperial City, Anvil, and Bravil. They tend to have stores with bigger inventories. And hey, while you're there, maybe pick up a new hat. A fashionable thief is a successful thief!
2. Thieves Guild... Duh!
Okay, this one is kind of a no-brainer. If you're looking for lockpicks, where better to go than to a guild literally dedicated to thievery? To join, you'll need to commit a crime and sleep in a bed. A shady messenger will approach you in your dreams, which is way cooler than getting mail.
Becoming a member has perks! Besides the moral ambiguity, the Thieves Guild provides a consistent supply of lockpicks from various vendors within their ranks. Plus, you get to hang out with other shady characters. Think of it as networking... for crime!
3. Mages Guild
Now, I know what you're thinking: "Wizards and lockpicks? What's the connection?" Well, some mages need to get into locked rooms too, you know! (Research purposes, obviously... totally not sneaking into the Arch-Mage's private stash of sweetrolls.)
Many Mages Guild halls sell various supplies, and sometimes, sometimes, you'll find lockpicks amongst the scrolls and alchemy ingredients. It's worth checking, especially if you're already planning on brewing some invisibility potions (for... reasons).
4. From Fallen Foes (Looting)
This is where things get really interesting. Many bandits, marauders, and other unsavory characters in Oblivion carry lockpicks on their person. So, you know, after you've... persuaded them to part with their worldly possessions (through valiant combat, of course!), be sure to check their inventories.
Bonus points if you steal the lockpicks from the bandits before they can use them on you! Turn the tables, my friend!
5. Random Containers (A Lucky Find!)
Keep your eyes peeled! Lockpicks can sometimes be found in chests, drawers, and other random containers throughout the world. It's a bit of a gamble, but hey, that's part of the fun, right?
Imagine stumbling upon a hidden stash of lockpicks... it's like finding a twenty dollar bill in your old jeans! Pure joy!
Important Considerations:
Skill Matters: The higher your Security skill, the fewer lockpicks you'll break (hopefully!). Invest in that skill early on if you plan on becoming a master locksmith. Trust me, those lockpicks are an investment!
The Skeleton Key: This is a powerful artifact that can open virtually any lock... without breaking! But it comes with a consequence. You'll have to complete a Daedric quest for Nocturnal, the Daedric Prince of Night and Shadows. A tough task, but the reward is worth it!
Stock Up: Never leave town without a healthy supply of lockpicks. You never know when you'll stumble upon a tempting lock, and being caught short is a thief's worst nightmare (besides getting caught, obviously!).
So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide to finding lockpicks in Oblivion. Now go forth, my friend, and unlock all the secrets that Cyrodiil has to offer! Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility... and the temptation to steal everything that isn't nailed down. Happy adventuring (and lockpicking)!