The Black-Briars are a faction in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

BackgroundEdit

A powerful and affluent family, the Black-Briars control Riften's cultural and ethical affairs - even more so than the Jarl of the city. Maven claims to have the Thalmor, the Thieves Guild, and even the Dark Brotherhood as her allies and does not take kindly to people getting into the affairs of her family. The Jarl of Riften is blissfully unaware of Maven's power and believes Maven is trying to help eliminate Riften's corruption, even though Maven is the main source of it. The Black-Briar's web of influence even delves into the Riften Guards and even the Royal Court itself, essentially controlling the decision-making of the Jarl and her hold.

Black-Briar FamilyEdit

The family consists of:

• Maven Black-Briar: Proprietor of Black-Briar Meadery and the matriarch of the Black-Briar family. The real power behind the Jarl in Riften, known to have ties to both the Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood, as well as the Aldmeri Dominion.
• Ingun Black-Briar: Daughter of Maven Black-Briar. Spends most of her time practicing alchemy, and dislikes taking part in her mother's ambitions.
• Sibbi Black-Briar: Son of Maven Black-Briar who has been arrested and imprisoned for murder in Riften's jail.
• Hemming Black-Briar: Eldest son of Maven Black-Briar, brother to Ingun and Sibbi.

EtymologyEdit

• The word "briar denotes a member of the Rose plant family. Combined with "Black", the name literally becomes "Black-Rose", a symbol of ill omen and death.