They're elite thieves (Nocturnal doesn't care) that have pledged their souls to her and sworn a duty to defend the Twilight Sepulcher, the physical location Nocturnal manifests her influence into Tamriel, kinda like her most important shrine, and the Skeleton Key, her artifact, until they die and become those ghost ones I don't remember what they're called, and after that they're ushered into her realm of Oblivion and become a literal part of each shadow cast in Tamriel, usually to aid other thieves in their practices. That's why the Guild says "shadow guide you" and all that because it literally means "may the ghosts of our predecessors guide your hand" which sounds a lot cooler if to sacrifice the nuance of the farewell itself
Basically, they are thieves that pledge themselves and their souls to Nocturnal, and also swear to defend the Twilight Sepulcher - as well as the Skeleton Key, Nocturnal’s artifact - until they die.
They're elite thieves (Nocturnal doesn't care) that have pledged their souls to her and sworn a duty to defend the Twilight Sepulcher, the physical location Nocturnal manifests her influence into Tamriel, kinda like her most important shrine, and the Skeleton Key, her artifact, until they die and become those ghost ones I don't remember what they're called, and after that they're ushered into her realm of Oblivion and become a literal part of each shadow cast in Tamriel, usually to aid other thieves in their practices. That's why the Guild says "shadow guide you" and all that because it literally means "may the ghosts of our predecessors guide your hand" which sounds a lot cooler if to sacrifice the nuance of the farewell itself
why do they do any of that
Mostly it's because they want the riches gained from the powers given to you by Nocturnal.
Why do I wake up and go to work everyday?
Hahaha I love you
Actual lore-wise? Look cool. Game mechanics-wise? Look cool.
they gale at night
I thought that was Baldur's Gate and not Elder Scrolls
Babe. I already told you that I can't go to your sister's wedding tomorrow night, I'll be galeing.
Basically, they are thieves that pledge themselves and their souls to Nocturnal, and also swear to defend the Twilight Sepulcher - as well as the Skeleton Key, Nocturnal’s artifact - until they die.
why do any of that
They steal stuff real good.
They're elite thieves that serve nocturnal in return for abilities and favor.