The quest titled May the Best Thief Win serves as the official initiation challenge for players seeking membership in the Thieves Guild in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Tasked by Armand Christophe in the Imperial City Waterfront, you must race against two rival candidates to retrieve a target item. Understanding the mechanics of this trial ensures a smooth transition into the guild's shadowy ranks.
Starting the Initiation Trial
To launch the quest, meet Armand Christophe at midnight in the Garden of Dareloth located within the Waterfront District. After expressing your desire to join the guild, Armand explains that you must compete against Methredhel and Amusei. The primary objective is to locate and steal the diary of Amantius Allectus before your rivals do.
Gathering information quickly gives you a crucial head start over the competition. Speaking to local beggars in the Imperial City will reveal that Amantius Allectus lives in the Temple District. Bribing or persuading a beggar speeds up this step, allowing you to reach the house well before Amusei.
Securing the Diary in the Temple District
Once you arrive at the Temple District, locate the home of Amantius Allectus and pick the lock on the front door. Inside, head to the desk on the main floor to recover the target diary. Moving quietly prevents waking the home's inhabitant or alerting nearby city guards.
If Methredhel reaches the house first, you can still retrieve the diary by tracking her down. Sneaking into her home in the Waterfront District allows you to steal the diary directly from her chest. Alternatively, you can pickpocket the item from her if your stealth skills are sufficiently developed.
Alternative Methods and Backup Objectives
If you fail to obtain the diary before it is turned in, Armand offers a second chance to prove your worth. In this alternative scenario, you are tasked with stealing Rohssan's Antique Cutlass from the Fighting Chance shop in the Market District. Successfully retrieving this weapon satisfies the trial requirement just like the diary.
Navigating the shop at night requires lockpicking skills and careful movement to avoid her guard dog. Once inside the upstairs private quarters, locate the chest containing the cutlass and exit without causing an alarm. Handing the sword over to Armand completes your trial and secures your induction.
Guild Induction and Core Rules
Returning to Armand Christophe in the Garden of Dareloth at midnight with either item completes the quest. Upon joining, Armand outlines the three mandatory guild rules that every member must follow strictly. These tenets forbid stealing from guild mates, killing on the job, and stealing from the poor.
Completing this initiation unlocks access to fences like Ongar the World-Weary in Bruma. Fencing stolen goods allows you to progress through subsequent Thieves Guild missions. Adhering to the guild's rules keeps your standing clear as you build your reputation as a master thief.
