I posted this on another forum, so here it goes...
We've all been speculating what Hearthfire is going to be about. Some of us have suggested ideas based on the book and month of the same name, but I think I figured it out.
According to the dictionary, a hearth is the floor of a fireplace. To some, this is obvious and holds no significance, but let's look at another definition, specifically the word "ashpit".
According to the dictionary, an ashpit is the receptacle at the bottom of a fireplace, a hearth. You're probably wondering why this matters.
Malacath's realm is the Ashpit.
But Daniel, what in the hell makes you think it's going to be the Ashpit? Well, let's look at the facts...
Orsinium has been moved right up on the Hammerfell/Skyrim border. Highly convenient. There's a loading screen about the place. Bethesda has also devoted a lot of time and effort in introducing us to Orcish culture through the strongholds. Orcs have been given a huge overhaul since Oblivion. What for? The largest piece of the puzzle, however, is Malacath. Why? If you look within the game's files, you'll notice that Malacath has unusually high stats, moreso than any other Prince by a HUGE margin. Why would they give him such high stats when you don't even fight him, let alone meet him? Curious thing.
With all these things considered, I believe that Hearthfire is going to take us to Orsinium and the Ashpit. It's possible that it could involve redeeming Malacath. There's a war coming. It's time for the Orsimer to take their place within the Empire, to respark their fire from the ashes.
Mark my words...
Interesting. I would support this idea as well for one major reason. Name me a dlc that Bethesda released that pandered to one specific playstyle? Disregard the Mage Tower from Oblivion, that was an add-on, I'm talking a DLC with a storyline added. The answer is they haven't, because releasing a DLC like that would alienate the other 66% of their playerbase who doesn't use magic much. It is always possible yeah, but I don't see them doing it, especially if it involves the Psijic Order to ANY extent. You already encounter them once in the general game, so if you don't play up to that point, it would be really awkward to jump into a dlc where you interact with them heavily. Again, it could be done, but I have my doubts.
I really like this idea of going to Orsinium. I just want to have a new landmass to explore and see, and I think this would be perfect. Plus, who doesn't love orcs?