Skyrim:Neloth

Neloth (RefID: xx0177DA) (lore page)
Added by	Dragonborn
Home Town	Tel Mithryn
House	Tel Mithryn
Race	Dark Elf	Gender	Male
Level	PC×1 (range=25-60)	Class	Enchanter
RefID	xx0177DA	BaseID	xx01773A
Services
Training
Merchant
Gold	1000 (+1000 Master Trader)
Sells	Blank Staves, Enchanted Staves, Soul Gems
Buys	Spells (Books, Clothing, Daedric Artifacts, Jewelry, Scrolls, Soul Gems, Spell Tomes, Staves)
Other Information
Health	450-742
Magicka	310-543
Stamina	50
Primary Skills	Destruction, Restoration, Alteration, Conjuration
Perks	Impact, Atromancy, Elemental Potency, Regeneration, Respite, Muffled Movement, Light Foot, Stability, Summoner, Augmented Shock, Augmented Frost, Recovery, Magic Resistance
Class Details	DLC2NelothClassTrainer
Morality	No Crime	Aggression	Aggressive
Essential	Yes
Voice Type	Unique
Faction(s)	JobMerchantFaction; Neloth Services; DLC2CrimeRavenRockFaction; Staff Maker Faction; Tel Mithryn Faction

Neloth

Neloth is an eccentric Dark Elf wizard-lord and a Master Wizard of House Telvanni. He lives in the main tower of Tel Mithryn with his apprentice, Talvas Fathryon. His presence in Skyrim means that he was not killed during the events of Morrowind. He also employs several workers within the settlement, including a steward, cook, and mycologist. He is involved in a number of side quests, as well as the main questline. In addition, he serves as an Enchanting trainer and staves merchant.

If the quest Dragonborn has been started, Neloth can initially be found at the Earth Stone observing the entranced townsfolk of Raven Rock. He will remain there until he is spoken to or until the quest has been completed. He then moves to his home in Tel Mithryn, where his daily schedule focuses mainly around his work. He often paces back and forth around his laboratory, sits down to read, or engages in a brief conversation with his apprentice. From time to time, he also casts a Candlelight or Fast Healing spell on himself, or a Calm spell on Talvas.

Despite the two beds in his laboratory, Neloth never seems to sleep—a trait best summarized by Talvas when he remarks: "I don't know how he does it, but he never rests for even a moment." However, on other occasions he reveals that Neloth apparently sleeps with his eyes open: "Shh! Master Neloth is concentrating. At least I think he is. He might be sleeping with his eyes open again." The only time Neloth breaks this schedule is when he travels with you to Nchardak during the quest The Path of Knowledge.

Neloth wears a set of Telvanni robes and matching shoes and carries an ebony dagger. In combat, he uses mainly Destruction and Conjuration magic and some additional Spells included in the add-on.

People's perceptions of him throughout Solstheim aren't particularly favorable. Most of the residents of Raven Rock view him as an unhinged and insane wizard, while his own workers see him as an uncaring, tyrannical taskmaster. His interactions with others only confirm these traits, as he often comes across as self-absorbed, callous, and unflinchingly frank.

He looks down on most people and views them as simply a means to further his own pursuits. To Neloth, everyone is replaceable, thus he has no reservations in endangering people's lives if it means his goal is achieved—a fact that he has no qualms in making known. He sees gratitude as a display for the weak and foolish, but conversely is not above richly rewarding those who do his bidding. He thinks of Miraak as more of a nuisance than a threat, and barely acknowledges the fact that he is defeated after the main quest is completed.

Background

For historical information on Neloth, see the lore article.

Prior to the eruption of Red Mountain in 4E 5, Neloth moved from Vvardenfell to Solstheim. He brought with him fungi cuttings which he used to grow his citadel, Tel Mithryn, as well as the surrounding buildings. It was around this time that he began studying the ash and molten rocks that landed on the shores of Solstheim from Red Mountain. He named them heart stones and learned that they had the capacity to raise ash spawn from pieces of bone buried in the nearby ash. Using his knowledge of heart stones, he created a staff enchanter, an exceptional feat beyond the skill of many wizards and mages.

In addition to his arcane research, Neloth also pursued an interest in acquiring Daedric artifacts, particularly those attributed to Hermaeus Mora. He spent many years searching for the Oghma Infinium without success, though he did manage to recover a Black Book, one of the many tomes of esoteric knowledge scattered throughout the world. Using the book, he located another in the ruins of Nchardak, a Dwemer ruin on the east coast of Solstheim. After exploring a small part of the ruins, he discovered the book was sealed within a protective case that he was unable to open. He elected to seal the ruins shut to keep out any meddlers until he could find a way to unlock the case.

Decades later, Neloth took on an apprentice named Ildari Sarothril to help with his research. Headstrong, lusting for power, and keenly interested in magic, Ildari continually pushed Neloth to teach her more. Continuing his research into heart stones, Neloth began performing necropsies on spriggans, which led him to believe that a heart stone could be implanted in a person's chest, granting them great power. He considered replacing his own heart with a heart stone, however Ildari was coaxed into becoming his test subject with promises of power and glory. Neloth performed the surgery that resulted in Ildari's heart being replaced with a heart stone. The experiment failed, and Ildari died as a result. Neloth, mildly annoyed by the setback, had her buried in the cemetery behind Tel Mithryn. It was after this he took on Talvas Fathryon as his new apprentice, and he continued his research.

Related Quests

Dragonborn Main Quest

• Dragonborn: Travel to the island of Solstheim to find out what's happening there.
• The Path of Knowledge: Discover the locations of the Black Books in order to stop Miraak.

Side Quests

• Azra's Staffs: Retrieve a staff made by Azra Nightwielder for Master Neloth.
• Briarheart Necropsy: Examine a Briarheart for Neloth.
• Experimental Subject (A): Help Neloth by being a test subject in his experiment.
• Heart Stones: Find a heart stone for Neloth.
• Lost Knowledge: Retrieve the Black Books for Neloth.
• Old Friends: Find the source of attacks on Tel Mithryn.
• Reluctant Steward: Find a new steward for Neloth in Raven Rock.
• Telvanni Research: Extract a sample from an ash spawn for Neloth's research.
• Wind and Sand: Retrieve a copy of Wind and Sand for Neloth.

Miscellaneous Quests

• Experimental Subject (B): Help Neloth by being a test subject in his experiment.

Services

Enchanting Trainer

Neloth will reveal himself to be a true master of Enchanting if you ask him about training. He will reluctantly agree to give a lesson if your Enchanting skill level is less than 90. If your skill level is 90 or higher, he becomes defensive and refuses to train you any further in fear of you becoming better than he. This reaction is a stark contrast to all other skill trainers who simply explain that they don't have the knowledge to train you any further:

Condition	Neloth's Dialogue
Enchanting skill < 90	"Don't be ridiculous. Of course I can. The question is, should I? I suppose if it's going to be done right, I'll have to do it."
Enchanting skill ≥ 90	"I could, but I won't. It wouldn't do to have you become better than me after all."

"Hmm. I might have a few staffs, if you're interested in that sort of thing."

Staves Merchant

In addition to providing training, Neloth also serves as a magical goods merchant. Most notably, he sells unenchanted staves, regular enchanted staves, and soul gems. Provided he has given you permission to use his staff enchanter, the unenchanted staves can be enchanted with one or more heart stones.

When asked what he has for sale, he replies with one of the following three lines:

• "Hmm. I might have a few staffs, if you're interested in that sort of thing."
• "Mostly staffs. They're my specialty."
• "I suppose I could dig up a staff or two for you."

He typically carries 1000 gold on hand for trading, but this can be increased to 2000 with the Master Trader perk.

Combat "The very elements are at my command!" Neloth's mastery over the arcane becomes readily apparent when he is engaged in combat, displaying strengths in Destruction and Conjuration magic. As battle begins, he typically activates his Whirlwind Cloak and Ebonyflesh for his initial defense. The core of his arsenal consists of shock-related spells such as Chain Lightning and Thunderbolt, which are 50% more powerful thanks to his Augmented Shock perk. He may also switch to Incinerate during battle or conjure a powerful Ash Guardian to aid him, which benefits from his Atromancy and Elemental Potency perks. For defense, he uses a Greater Ward and heals himself with Fast Healing, which is also augmented with the Regeneration perk. His robes grant him 150% increased rate of magicka regeneration, while his shoes give him a 70% resistance to shock. As a Dunmer, he also benefits from a 50% resistance to fire. In addition to this, his passive Magic Resistance perk blocks 20% of incoming spells' effects, making him quite robust against most forms of elemental magic (with the exception of frost damage). Should his large magicka supply run dry, he will wait for it to replenish rather than switching to his ebony dagger.

Spells Neloth knows the following spells: Alteration Candlelight † Ebonyflesh Ironflesh Conjuration Conjure Ash Guardian Conjure Storm Atronach Illusion Calm † Restoration Fast Healing † Greater Ward Steadfast Ward Destruction Chain Lightning Incinerate Thunderbolt Whirlwind Cloak † These spells are cast as part of Neloth's regular schedule in Tel Mithryn.

Quest-Related Events

Dragonborn

"You there... You don't seem to be in quite the same state as the others here. Very interesting."

"May I ask what it is you're doing here?"

Neloth can be first encountered at the Earth Stone during the Dragonborn quest. He is initially observing the townsfolk of Raven Rock working on the structure. Upon approaching him, he asks:

"You there... You don't quite seem to be in the same state as the others. Very interesting. May I ask what it is you're doing here?"

I'm looking for someone named Miraak.

"Miraak... Miraak... It sounds familiar, and yet I can't quite place... Oh. Wait, I recall. But that makes very little sense. Miraak's been dead for thousands of years."

What does that mean?

"I'm not sure, but it is fascinating, isn't it. Perhaps it has some relation to what's going on here. Quite unexpected. I'm afraid I can't give you any answers. But there are ruins of an ancient temple of Miraak's toward the center of the island. If I were you, I'd look there."

This updates the objective marker to point towards Miraak's temple. Neloth may also be questioned further:

Who are you? What are you doing here?

"It's true that I normally prefer to stay home and conduct my research in peace. Everything's so much more convenient there. But, given that something seems to be taking control of the minds of all the inhabitants, I thought it worth investigating."

Why aren't you affected like everyone else?

"I have gone to some pains to ensure that I am immune to many forms of control. I cannot say for certain which is currently protecting me, but it bears further investigation at some point."

"I'm very interested to find out what happens when they finish."

What are these people doing?

"Building something, clearly. And yet they don't seem to have much to say about it. I'm very interested to find out what happens when they finish."

Have you tried to stop this?

"Certainly not! Doing so would interfere with whatever is going on, and I would be unable to see how this all turns out."

Upon activating the Earth Stone, Neloth warns you:

"That seems inadvisable... oh well."

Once you fall under Miraak's influence and begin hammering at the stone, he remarks:

"Fascinating, By touching the stone, you appear to have fallen under whatever influence is affecting the others."

If you continue to work at the Earth Stone, he will make further comments:

"I wonder how long this effect will last. Perhaps it is permanent as with the others. That would be a shame. You were an interesting exception to the otherwise universal phenomenon. Can you hear me? Do you have any free will left, or are you completely under this outside influence like the others? Hmm. It appears that you were not as unusual after all."

If you break Miraak's influence and stop working on the stone, he remarks:

"Ah, so you appear to be able to resist the effect by exerting your will. Fascinating! I would not advise touching the stone again. The effects of repeated contact could be... Unless of course you'd like to contribute to my investigation. It could be very enlightening to observe you."

If this first initial meeting is skipped, he can later be met at his home in Tel Mithryn after the Dragonborn quest has been completed, where his dialogue will vary slightly.

The Path of Knowledge

"It seems the ancient Dwemer discovered this book and took it to study. I have found their 'reading room' in the ruins of Nchardak."

Skaal shaman Storn Crag-Strider will reveal that Neloth visited Skaal Village some time ago in search of a Black Book, once the All-Maker stones have been purged of Miraak's influence in the quest Cleansing the Stones. Storn then suggests that you speak to Neloth, as he may have more information about the Black Book that gave Miraak power over dragons.

Once in Tel Mithryn, Neloth can be asked where to find this Black Book, to which he replies:

"You refer to the tomes of esoteric knowledge that old Hermaeus Mora has scattered throughout the world? What could you know of them?"

Two or more possible dialogue choices will be presented. However, the specific ones that appear are based on certain variables, such as the status of Hermaeus Mora's Daedric quest Discerning the Transmundane:

Your Dialogue	Neloth's Reply	Condition
The Black Books have something to do with Hermaeus Mora?	"You didn't know? Hmm, I thought it was obvious. Hermaeus Mora has always tried to seduce mortals into his service with the lure of forbidden knowledge. Where the Black Books actually came from... no one really knows. Some appear to have been written in the past, others might be from the future. Apparently time is more malleable if you're a Daedric Prince of fate and destiny."	Default choice
I found a Black Book. I need to find more.	"Found one? Yes, and you read it, too, didn't you? Don't try to deny it, you've got the look. I can see it now. Dangerous knowledge is still knowledge and therefore useful. Usually turns out to be the most useful, in my experience."	A Black Book has been found.
I've dealt with Hermaeus Mora before. I've read the Oghma Infinium.	"Have you? The actual Oghma Infinium? That's... I've searched for it myself for many years without success... Well then, you should know better than anyone that Hermaeus Mora is not to be trifled with. But he is subtler than most of the other Daedric Princes, as you would expect of the prince of knowledge and fate. You seem to have escaped the fate of many who find themselves ensnared forever by the lure of his secrets. Or... perhaps not."	Discerning the Transmundane has been completed (even if you haven't read the book).
Who is Hermaeus Mora?	"If you have to ask that, you'd probably be best leaving his books to wiser heads than yours. Like all Daedric Princes, he's not to be trifled with. But he is subtler than most of his ilk, appropriate for the prince of knowledge and fate. Many scholars and loremasters have been ensnared by the lure of learning the secrets that only Hermaeus Mora possesses. But don't worry. I have no intention of joining them in their endless search through the infinite halls of Apocrypha."	Discerning the Transmundane has not been completed.

After this, you can continue the conversation by telling Neloth that you have to know what Miraak knows if you want to stop him, to which he replies:

I have to know what Miraak knows if I want to stop him.

"Now that is a dangerous path indeed. Hermaeus Mora gives nothing away for free. You may end up like Miraak, of course. Two power-mad Dragonborn. It could be very interesting."

I hear you know where to find Black Books.

"Oh yes. They're not hard to locate once you know how to look for them. I have one here that I have been using to locate more."

You have a Black Book?

"Yes. I haven't been idle while this fascinating madness engulfed Solstheim. But my book isn't what you're looking for. I'm quite sure it is unconnected with this Miraak. But I do know where to find a Black Book that can help you."

Next, two dialogue choices are presented:

So you know where to find this Black Book? The one connected with Miraak?:

"Yes I do. I haven't been able to get it, though. But maybe together we can unlock the secrets the Dwemer left behind."

The Dwemer? What do they have to do with this?:

"Forbidden knowledge was somewhat a specialty of the dwarves, eh? You don't think they would just leave it alone, do you? It seems the ancient Dwemer discovered this book and took it to study. I have found their 'reading room' in the ruins of Nchardak. The book is there, but it's sealed in a protective case which I wasn't able to open. But perhaps the two of us together will be able to get the book. To Nchardak, then. Follow me."

Just tell me where the book is and I'll go get it:

"I'm afraid it isn't that simple. If it was, I would have the book already."

Why won't the book you have here help me?:

"Oh, it clearly is not associated with the same power that has overtaken the island. And I'm not talking about Hermaeus Mora. These Black Books are all his, of course. No, what you're looking for is a specific book. Presumably because Miraak's power derives from it."

This ends the conversation and Neloth heads off to the ruins of Nchardak, located just north of Tel Mithryn, along the coast. If you stop him mid-journey and ask him where you are both headed, he becomes annoyed:

"I hope this is important."

"I thought you were in a hurry to get to Nchardak."

Where are we headed?

"Nchardak, an ancient Dwemer city, on the eastern side of Solstheim. It's largely flooded now, but luckily the main library is still above the water. It seems the dwarves were as interested in the Black Books as we are. They seem to have believed this one to be particularly valuable, as it is secured in a mechanism which I have been unable to open. Yet."

He can end the conversation with:

"I'm not taking this trip for pleasure, you know. Let's get to Nchardak."

"Let's be on our way then."

"Shall we get on with it?"

City of a Hundred Towers

"The Dwemer certainly knew how to build for the ages. These towers have outlasted their creators by millenia [sic]."

Once you reach the outskirts of Nchardak with Neloth, he will remark:

"The Dwemer certainly knew how to build for the ages. These towers have outlasted their creators by millenia [sic]. The book is housed inside that dome. I'll need to unlock the door for us. Let's get on with it."

If spoken to, he begins with either:

"Here we are. Nchardak. The book we're after is right inside that dome." or "Hmm. This place was deserted when I was here last."

Where are we headed?

"The book is housed in the main dome. I sealed the door the last time I was here, as a precaution against thieves and other meddlers."

Upon spotting one of the many reavers camped outside of the ruins, Neloth cries:

"I had to clean out the riff-raff last time I was here, too. Where do they come from?"

Once they have been defeated, Neloth remarks:

"Maybe now we can finally begin what we came here for."

He then walks up to the main door and reveals that he sealed the ruins on his last visit:

"The Dwemer of Nchardak appear to have been fond of these control pedestals. Luckily I found a cube to operate it inside on my last visit. I sealed the door when I left to keep out ignorant meddlers. Let me unlock it."

Nchardak Reading Room

Once inside the ruins, Neloth observes the large sealed case in the center of the room where the Black Book is held. He explains:

"You can see the book right there. So tantalizingly close... But trust me, no magic will open that. I'd have had the book already if I could. No, we'll have to do this the hard way. If we can restore the steam supply to this room, I'm certain I can open it. As you'll see, that's easier said than done. This way to the boilers."

Next, Neloth uses his control cube to open another door and reach another chamber, where he takes an elevator to the Nchardak Great Chamber.

Nchardak Great Chamber

"There seems to be an inexhaustible supply of these Dwemer contraptions."

Upon entering, Neloth reveals as he walks down the stairs:

"The last time I was here, I only explored a small part of the ruins. I was here alone then, and I find an assistant is absolutely essential for this kind of dirty, dangerous work."

Upon reaching the main chamber, Neloth exclaims:

"Nchardak, The 'City of a Hundred Towers'. In its day it was the largest of the great Dwemer Archives and perhaps the most advanced. In the old stories, when the Nords came to conquer it, it's said the Dwemer submerged the entire city beneath the sea until the invaders gave up. I have my doubts. But the city was a marvel of Dwemer engineering. Now reduced to this."

He walks over to a control pedestal overlooking a large flooded area and explains:

"As you can see, most of the lower levels of the city are flooded. but it isn't hopeless - the old Dwemer pumps still seem to work. Watch."

Before activating the pumps with his cube. As the water begins to drain, he reveals:

"The pumps only operate when a cube is in the pedestal. And unfortunately, I have only one cube. These four boilers provide steam to the room upstairs. They're shut down, but they still respond to the control cubes. So, if we can find four more cubes, we can turn these boilers back on and restore steam power to the room upstairs. Then I should be able to open the book's protective case. Bring that cube. We'll need it."

He then walks over to and studies a display panel, revealing:

"Yes... here we are. This device shows the location of four more cubes in this section of the city. It looks like most of the cubes were moved to the lower levels, perhaps to try to control the flooding before the city was abandoned. Interesting. That would suggest that the city must have originally sunk during the first cataclysm of Red Mountain. Or that the Dwemer's servitors continued to try to preserve the city after their creators' disappearance."

Before entering the Nchardak Workshop, he remarks:

"Three of the cubes are through here. This seems like a sensible place to start. You should be able to unseal this door with the control cube I gave you."

Once you place the cube in the control switch, the large brass seal that covers the door retracts and Neloth heads into the workshop.

At this point, it's possible to ask him to explain the details again via two dialogue options. These are:

How do we get the book out of its case?

"It won't be easy. The whole lower part of the city is flooded, which has shut down the boilers which supply steam to the reading room. If we can restore the steam supply, I'm certain I can open the book's protective case."

Why do we need these cubes?

"I thought I made myself clear the first time. The boilers in the Great Hall provide steam to the reading room upstairs, which we need in order to open the book's protective case. We need a total of five cubes - one to operate the pumps in the Great Hall, the other four to activate the boilers."

Nchardak Workshop

"These must be the 'Great Workshops of Nchardak'. Impressive even in ruins."

Upon entering, Neloth walks over to a nearby control switch containing a cube and remarks:

"I hope the rest of the cubes are this easy to find. Although knowing the Dwemer, I rather doubt it."

After dealing with the Dwarven spiders in the next area, he walks across a bridge stretching over another flooded area. Neloth comments as he observes the Dwarven centurions lining the walls of the chamber:

"These must be the 'Great Workshops of Nchardak'. Impressive even in ruins. In the city's days of glory, it was reputed to be able to assemble a complete automaton in a single day. Much of the Dwemer army at the Battle of Red Mountain must have come from here."

After reaching some control pedestals, Neloth remarks:

"It looks like we'll need to lower the water level to make any more progress." or "I believe these pillars will activate the pumps for this room, assuming they still work."

After placing one cube, the water level begins to drop, and Neloth remarks:

"Ah, good. Now we can see if we can find a way to get that next cube."

Suddenly, various Dwarven automatons appear. Neloth warns as a Dwarven centurion awakens:

"Look out for that Steam Centurion! Get to higher ground!"

Once they have been dealt with and the cube is retrieved, Neloth explains:

"Unfortunately, each cube we retrieve shuts down the corresponding pumps, raising the water level. We'll have to be careful."

If spoken to, he also mentions:

"If I remember correctly, there's another cube somewhere to the south of the main Workshop."

Heading to the south of the workshop, Neloth will mention if the first cube on the bridge was not collected:

"There's a passage up there. We could reach it if the water level was higher."

Otherwise he will say:

"With the water level this high, we can swim across the collapsed part of the passage and reach the other side."

After collecting the second cube from the workshops, Neloth proceeds to the Great Chamber. He heads over to the large flooded area again and informs you:

"You'll need to lower the water level before we can proceed any further."

Once a control pedestal is activated, he remarks as he begins to walk down to the Aqueduct to fetch the final cube:

"The last cube is somewhere through the northern door. We won't be able to open it until the water level is lower."

Nchardak Aqueduct

"I'd guess that must be the pump activator up there. But how to reach it?"

Upon entering the Aqueduct, Neloth spots several raised bridges and remarks: "Looks like we'll need those bridges down in order to get the pumps in here working." As he walks deeper into the chamber, he adds: "The last cube is somewhere in here. I hope it won't require more swimming around in this filth." Eventually, Neloth spots a small alcove on the upper floor and mentions: "I'd guess that must be the pump activator up there. But how to reach it? We'll need to get all three of these bridges down in order to reach the pump control."

During the bridge puzzle, should only two bridges lower, Neloth remarks: "Well, that's progress of a sort. But we'll need all three down at once to get to the pump control." Once all three bridges are lowered, Neloth snaps: "That's it! Don't touch anything else. Quickly now." before running across the bridges.

As he heads up to the activator, he complains: "What a mess. I'm getting tired of wading around in this muck." and if spoken to at this point, he advises you: "Lowering the water level is the next logical step here." As the cube is placed in the pump activator and the water begins to lower, Neloth comes up with a plan for the final cube: "I have an idea. I'll wait here and retrieve this cube once you find the last one we need. Good luck!"

Once the final cube has been obtained, Neloth asks: "Do you have the cube? Good, good! Then I'll take this cube and we can be on our way. Watch out, the water's rising even higher with both pumps shut down." He also quips: "That was easier than I expected. I'm glad you were here to do all the hard work." before heading back to the Nchardak Great Chamber to activate the boilers.

Activating the Boilers

Once in the great chamber, Neloth comments:

"With the cube I retrieved from the pumping pedestal, we should now have five cubes - exactly what we need. Now we can finally see about getting those boilers started."

As he heads up to the pedestals, he reminds you again:

"You need to start the four boilers. Then we should be able to open the book's protective case upstairs."

Should you remove too many cubes and cause the water level to raise too much, Neloth becomes annoyed and comments:

"I thought you understood how this worked by now. The water level needs to be lower for the boilers to work at all." or "I'm quite sure the boilers will not work while they're under water."

Should you take too long in activating the boilers, Neloth sarcastically remarks:

"As much as I enjoy this place, I'm ready to see if we can actually open the book's protective case. You do still remember why we're here?"

As the boilers are activated, Neloth comments as a Dwarven centurion awakens from its station at the far side of the great chamber bridge:

"That seems to have done it. Good. It took longer than I'd hoped, but at least it's finally done. Look out! Another Steam Centurion!"

Once it has been dealt with, he remarks:

"I'm going to head back upstairs and see if the reading room has steam. If so, it should be a simple matter to release the book."

The Black Book

"Aren't you going to read it? I thought that was the whole reason you dragged me out here."

Upon reaching the reading room, Neloth will be waiting by the control pedestal, where he remarks:

"Now that the boilers are working, it should be simple to release the book from it's [sic] protective case."

After releasing the book from the case, he comments:

"At last. I hope it was worth it. Please... be my guest. You deserve the first look. Besides, it could be very dangerous. These books are known to drive many people insane."

Neloth will patiently wait for you to read the book, though idling around the room causes him to speak one of several lines:

• "What's the worst that could happen? Well, you could have your mind sucked dry by Hermaeus Mora... but that's supposed to be very rare."
• "Please, go right ahead. I have plenty to occupy me for the moment."
• "Aren't you going to read it? I thought that was the whole reason you dragged me out here."
• "You should read it. I'd really like to see what happens."
• "Don't worry, I'll take careful notes of what happens to you."

As you begin to read the book and enter the realm of Apocrypha, Neloth jokingly parts with:

"Oh good. Be sure to say hello to Hermaeus Mora for me if you see him."

The Gardener of Men

"Hermaeus Mora learns some fascinating new ways to skin a horker and you become the second most powerful Dragonborn that ever lived."

"By Malacath's toenails, where did that come from?"

After speaking to Hermaeus Mora and returning to Nchardak, Neloth will approach and ask:

"What happened? What did you see? Different people have very different experiences when reading these books."

I talked to Hermaeus Mora.

"You're still acting surprisingly sane, too. What did he have to say? He must have wanted something from you."

I learned the second Word of the Bend Will shout.

"No wonder the Dwemer were so interested in that book. It was indeed one that Miraak used to advance his power as Dragonborn. But I assume there's some bad news? It would be unlike Hermaeus Mora to allow anyone to gain such knowledge without exacting a price."

Either option leads to:

He wants the "secrets of the Skaal" in exchange for teaching me the third Word.

"Hmph. What secrets could they have worth keeping from old Mora? Sounds like a bargain to me. Hermaeus Mora learns some fascinating new ways to skin a horker and you become the second most powerful Dragonborn that ever lived. Well that gives me a lot to think about. I need to get back to Tel Mithryn. I have some ideas about how to locate more of these Black Books..."

Following this, he exits the ruin to head back home.

Alternatively, should you die or leave Apocrypha before interacting with Hermaeus Mora, a different option is presented instead:

I found myself in another place.

"That's a fairly common experience, at least for those who remain coherent enough to report what they've seen. You were in Apocrypha. Or at least your consciousness was - your body remained here of course. You should read the book again until you reach what appears to be the 'end' - then you will have fully understood the knowledge it contains."

Krosulhah's Ambush

Upon exiting Nchardak, a dragon named Krosulhah swoops over the ruins, which causes Neloth to cry out: "By Malacath's toenails, where did that come from?" Krosulhah bellows: "Miraak has commanded your death. So it shall be." before attacking, and Neloth will provide aid in defeating the wyrm.

At the Summit of Apocrypha

"Miraak's influence has vanished from Solstheim, so I assumed you had handled things. Why, did something interesting happen?"

"I don't get to observe first-hand many people who've spoken to Hermaeus Mora."

Visiting Neloth in Tel Mithryn after completing the main questline results in him approaching you and asking: "Hold still. Let me get a good look at you." The following set of dialogue options are then presented:

What are you looking for?

"Incipient madness. Loss of self-awareness. Black spots in the whites of the eyes. Any of the documented indications of Hermaeus Mora's permanent influence. Hm, no, you look fine. At least no different than when I first saw you."

You don't need to worry about me.

"I wasn't worried. Just interested. I don't get to observe first-hand many people who've spoken to Hermaeus Mora."

When asking Neloth whether he wants to know what happened with Miraak, he seems nonplussed by the whole ordeal: "Who? Oh him. Well, I assume you killed him. Or Hermaeus Mora turned on him when you looked like the winning bet. Or a bit of both. Miraak's influence has vanished from Solstheim, so I assumed you had handled things. Why, did something interesting happen?" He can be given two replies to this, the second of which reveals a side of his personality that is quite uncharacteristic of the eccentric wizard:

• No, nothing interesting. I just killed Miraak and saved Solstheim: "Well, that is what you hero types do, isn't it? I wasn't expecting anything less."
• You don't seem very grateful: "I don't recall asking you to kill Miraak. That was your own project. And now I'm not even mentioning the fact that now we'll never know what would have happened when Miraak returned. Although... from all indications he could have proved a serious nuisance. So, yes, I am grateful that you dealt with him."

At this point, Neloth can end the conversation in one of two ways, depending on if any Black Books remain undiscovered. Asking if there is anything else you can do, he replies:

Neloth's Dialogue	Condition
"Now all that's left are these Black Books. It's a shame I haven't located any more. So much more to be learned."	All Black Books have been found.
"Now all that's left are these Black Books, waiting for another ambitious fool to be lured into Hermaeus Mora's clutches. Speaking of which... I think I've located another book, if you're interested. Here, let me show you."	One or more Black Books remain undiscovered.

If the second reply is given, the quest Lost Knowledge immediately begins. He may also remark in passing: "Miraak was a formidable opponent. I wonder what he would have been like as my apprentice." and "Defeating Miraak was an impressive feat. I'm curious to see if Hermaeus Mora seeks you out because of it."

Lost Knowledge

"Now all that's left are these Black Books, waiting for another ambitious fool to be lured into Hermaeus Mora's clutches."

If one or more Black Book remains undiscovered, Neloth can be asked if he has found any other books, to which he replies: "Yes. Hermaeus Mora is devious, but then so am I. Now, it's only a rumor of a whisper of a conjecture. But I think this is the place. Now, hurry. That book might contain the final secrets of Xarxes, for all we know."

After recovering the book, return to Neloth. After informing him of your success, he excitedly remarks: "Excellent! I'll just make a copy for myself. It's far too dangerous to carry the real book around. Of course, I'm sure you can handle yourself. Of course you can. Of course. Now, take this for your efforts, and we'll call the matter closed." and rewards you with some gold.

Reluctant Steward

"Someone with a brilliant mind and robust physique that is blindly obedient would be ideal. Oh, and they need to know how to brew tea."

Pay a visit to Neloth in his tower and he can be heard yelling:

"Where is that ash sucking steward of mine? Varona!"

Speaking to him, he complains:

"Have you seen Varona? I'm hungry."

No, I haven't seen Varona.

"Well find her. Tell her I want apple cabbage stew, with some canis root tea."

This presents three dialogue choices, but regardless of which option you choose, the task to find her will always fall upon you:

Why don't you just make your own tea?:

"What? Make my own tea? I am a master wizard of the house Telvanni. Other people make tea for me."

Of course, Master Neloth. As you command:

"Finally. Someone who recognizes my importance around here."

Hey, I'm not your servant:

"Obviously not, or you would have a cup of tea in your hands. I supposed you want to be asked nicely. Very well. Please, oh hero of Skyrim. Please find Varona. I shall be ever so grateful."

"Dead? Well that's annoying."

After speaking to Elynea Mothren or Ulves Romoran, it is revealed that Varona left for Raven Rock a few hours ago to arrange for supplies. Unfortunately, she never made it there, as she was killed by three ash spawn. When informing Neloth of her misfortune, he remarks in his typical selfish manner:

Varona is dead.

"Dead? Well that's annoying. How did she die?"

It looks like an ash spawn attack.

"There are more and more of those things showing up around here lately. I suppose you'll have to find me a new steward. Try Raven Rock. They are in awe of me there. I'm sure almost anyone would be willing to serve me."

After this, the following three options are presented. The first two options will always lead to the third:

What kind of a person should I look for?:

"Hmm. Excellent question. Once word gets out, there will be a lot of people to choose from. Someone with a brilliant mind and robust physique that is blindly obedient would be ideal. Oh, and they need to know how to brew tea. Ulves always waters it down."

You can't just order me around:

"Well, somebody needs to get me a new steward. It might as well be you. But if you don't want to help a master wizard of House Telvanni, possibly earning his favor, you're a fool."

What's in it for me?:

"So gaining the favor of a Telvanni wizard isn't enough? I suppose I'll have to pay you. Heroes. They get greedier every century."

If approached before finding a new steward:

"When you find my new steward, have him report to me. With a cup of canis root tea."

Despite Neloth's illusions of grandeur, almost everyone in Raven Rock thinks of him as an unhinged, insane wizard, and finding a new steward can prove difficult. Eventually, Drovas Relvi reveals he is very keen to take the job. After returning to Neloth and informing him of this:

"Back so soon?"

I've found you a new steward.

"That Drovas man? I suppose he'll do. He makes dreadful canis root tea though. But, I should be grateful. Here, take this for your efforts. Oh, and you may use my staff enchanter if you want."

He will then hand you the reward, a leveled amount of gold and a key that provides free access to his unique staff enchanter in the locked southern chamber of his tower. From this point on, Neloth will occasionally call out: :"Where is that lazy steward of mine? Varona! No, wait. She's dead. Drovas!"

Later, Neloth can be asked how Drovas is getting along:

How is Drovas working out?

"The man makes a dreadful cup of canis root tea. However, he seems to run the place well enough. Oh. Were you fishing for a compliment? A sign of gratitude? Don't waste your time. Those things are for the weak and foolish."

Telvanni Research

"Neloth is doing research on ash spawn. He's asked me to bring him a sample of the ash from one using a special extraction tool."

If you ask Neloth if he requires any help with his research, he replies:

"Hmm. I do have a new spell I'm working on. I hope to be able to conjure ash spawn. If I could get a sample of ash from an ash spawn, that would be quite useful. I've made this special tool that will extract... well, you don't need to know the details. Just go harvest a sample. Of course, the creature will have to be dead first, but I trust that's something you can... bring about."

He then gives you an ash extractor to collect a sample of ash from an ash spawn. Once a sample has been collected and given to him, he thanks you with a leveled amount of gold and the option to buy the spell tome from Talvas:

"Well done. Here are some septims for your troubles. If you come back in a day or two I should have the spell worked out. You can buy it from Talvas."

Experimental Subject A

"You won't feel a thing. But if you do, try not to scream too loudly. My ears are sensitive."

"Now stand still... it's my first time casting this spell, and I don't need any additional distractions."

Upon entering Tel Mithryn, Neloth asks:

"Say, how would you like to help advance the art of magic?"

Do you need help with your research?

"I suppose that depends. Are you willing to be an experimental subject?"

What kind of experiment do you want to do on me?

"Oh, nothing too dangerous. It should provide an additional spectral tether from your own lifespark to the aedric realm. You would experience it as a sort of... increased vigor. You would fight longer, feel stronger, that sort of thing. At least I think it will. Probably. Almost certainly. Of course, you never can tell."

At this stage, two possible choices are presented:

No thanks. That sounds like a bad idea:

"Seems like nobody is willing to put their life on the line for research any more. I'm sure Talvas won't mind being my test subject again."

I'd be glad to help:

"Now stand still... it's my first time casting this spell, and I don't need any additional distractions."

By choosing to help him, Neloth begins casting his experimental spell and remarks:

"You won't feel a thing. But if you do, try not to scream too loudly. My ears are sensitive."

Once the spell takes effect, his health boost ability is granted. He then parts with:

"Off you go. If you discover any side effects, come back and tell me straight away."

Not surprisingly, the spell contains a side effect which reduces your health when you come in contact with water, either from rain or swimming. When you return to Neloth and inform him that his spell made you weaker once you got wet, he reverses the spell and rewards you with some gold for any inconvenience:

Your spell made me weaker once I got wet!

"Wet, you say? I suppose... yes, I can see how that would have inverted the tether. Unfortunate. Couldn't you simply avoid water? No, no, that won't do. Can't have you forgo bathing... The ashlands can leave one a bit pungent and it's, eh, obvious you've been through them. Here, I'll just remove it. Here's a bit of coin. Should help mitigate your inconvenience."

Heart Stones

"Neloth asked me to find a heart stone for his research."

Following his study into the ash from Red Mountain, Neloth explains that he requires a heart stone when asked if he needs some help:

Can I help with your research?

"I'm running low on heart stones. If you have any with you, I'll buy one. Otherwise, I can tell you where you might find one."

Where can I find a heart stone?

"Every time the Red Mountain belches, more of them land here. Look around for impact craters, exposed rock, that sort of thing. You may need to pick away at it to pry the heart stone itself loose, but you look... strong. Good luck."

Once you return to him with a heart stone:

I have a heart stone.

"Excellent. I'll take it. Here. Have some septims."

Briarheart Necropsy

"I'm hoping to learn some of the Briarheart techniques, their methods. Would venture out myself, but long voyages and dangerous risks are precisely what people like you are for."

Upon entering Tel Mithryn after finding him a heart stone, Neloth can be heard yelling:

"Curse these heart stones!"

Upon speaking to him:

Is there a problem?

"I've been having difficulties with my heart stone experiments. Have you heard of the Briarhearts?"

What about them?

"They are fierce warriors of the Forsworn tribes. They actually remove their own hearts, and replace them with large briar seeds. It puts their lifesparks in direct connection to the natural forces. I need you to examine one of them. Just investigate as much as you can. I'm going to put this memory trace spell on you, so you won't have to worry about taking notes. I doubt you could know what was important anyway."

"Well, let me just extract those memories and I'll see if you found anything useful."

Neloth then casts a memory spell on you so that you can record your interactions with a briarheart. He can also be questioned further about the subject:

Where can I find a Briarheart warrior?

"The Forsworn live in the hills on the western edge of Skyrim. From there, you're on your own. I'm given to understand that they are not difficult to find, if you gather my inference."

What do Briarhearts have to do with Heart Stones?

"Well, I'm hoping to do something similar... if I could connect a living being to the forces of the Red Mountain well... that would be formidable. I've done some experiments in this area, but, well, my test subjects are far too fragile. I'm hoping to learn some of the Briarheart techniques, their methods. Would venture out myself, but long voyages and dangerous risks are precisely what people like you are for."

If you walked away during the conversation and reapproach him:

"Oh yes. You rather rudely walked away. As I was saying then, have you heard of the Briarhearts?"

Once a Briarheart has been killed and his heart removed, return to Neloth and inform him that you've examined the Briarheart warrior. He removes the spell and rewards you with some gold:

I examined the Briarheart warrior.

"Oh have you? Well, let me just extract those memories and I'll see if you found anything useful. I promise that any unrelated memories I run across will be kept in the strictest of confidences. Here, you deserve a bit of reward for your efforts... that was a lengthy trip for you, I'm sure!"

If later asked about what he has learned from the Briarheart:

What did you learn from the Briarheart?

"The connecting soul thread is knotted three times, once for the heart, once for the spirit, and once for the body. The knot gives the connection a strength that may be the key that I've been looking for."

Experimental Subject B

"Well that's unexpected. I presume you are blind, given the state of your eyes."

Continuing his research into the arcane, Neloth believes he has discovered a new form of silence and asks if you'd like to be a test subject for another spell:

"Well, I believe I've discovered a new form of silence. Some philosophers postulate seven orders of silence, but I believe there's an eighth. If you allow me, I'd like to envelop you in the eighth form, to study the mental effects. What do you say?"

That sounds a little too risky:

"That's unfortunate. I'll have to use Talvas again, and he's a bit of a screamer. Although... maybe this could solve two problems..."

I suppose so:

"Excellent. If this works, I'll prepare a version that you can cast yourself, if you ever wish to inflict... er, study silence."

Allowing him to proceed will result in him casting a spell that blinds you, causing the screen to fade out. He realizes the error and comments that writhing tentacles have appeared where your eyes once were. Talvas Fathryon, shocked by the results, comments that he is about to vomit:

Talvas: "Master Neloth! What have you done to him/her? What are those things growing out of his/her eyes?" Neloth: "Well that's unexpected. I presume you are blind, given the state of your eyes. It's nothing that can't be fixed. The spell that is. I think I can fix the spell. It should only take a couple more years. But first, I need some data. Try wiggling them. No, don't shake your fist. Wiggle the tentacle things where your eyes used to be." Talvas: "I think I'm going to be sick." <Talvas audibly vomits> Neloth: "Hmm. From the way they are waving about, I'm assuming they aren't under your control. And I see now that your tongue is also...well, it's probably best if I don't say. Don't bother trying to scream though." Talvas: "Is it over yet? Does he/she have eyes again?" Neloth: "It looks like it's beginning to wear off. Hmm. Your eyes appear to be completely back to normal. Interesting."

"Master Neloth! What have you done to him? What are those things growing out of his eyes?"

Eventually, the spell wears off and your sight is restored:

I think you owe me for that spell.

"I suppose I do. It's too bad it wore off so quickly though. Unfortunately you don't appear to be suffering from any side effects. Anyway, take this for your time."

Once the quest has been completed, Neloth may say in passing:

"It was fascinating to watch those tentacles grow out of your eyes."

Old Friends

"First it's ash spawn attacks. Then my home withers. It's almost like someone is out to get me."

"First it's ash spawn attacks. Then my home withers. It's almost like someone is out to get me."

An Unknown Assailant

Following the death of his steward and the withering of his tower, several ash spawn attempt to attack Tel Mithryn. Inside the tower, Neloth laments:

"There are too many coincidences. There must be someone behind all of my recent troubles."

At this point, two dialogue options are presented, both of which expand into additional options:

Someone is attacking you?

"Yes. I have enemies. Legions of them back in Morrowind. However, in this case I have reason to believe it is someone in Solstheim."

I suppose you want me to kill them.

"Not yet. That may come later. First I need to identify the culprit. I've enchanted this ring to find the source of the attacks. Here, take it."

Would I be able to collect a bounty?

"Don't get ahead of yourself. All you are going to do is wear this ring and walk around Tel Mithryn. If you find something, then we can talk about bounties and rewards."

How do you know you are under attack?

"Ash spawn keep appearing. One night a part of my tower mysteriously withered. Then my steward was killed. You had to find me a replacement. I've even been attacked by dragons! Do I need to go on?"

I'm not sure the dragons are about you.

"Maybe not. I hear they've been seen over Skyrim too. Even so, there is more than enough evidence that someone is out to get me."

I saw a dragon once.

"Really? When this is over, you'll have to tell me all about it."

Neloth gives you his tracking ring, which will help identify the source of the attacks. He can also be asked additional questions about the ring:

How does the ring work?

"Just wear it. It will light up the source when you get close to it. I enchanted the ring with a bit of ash from the last ash spawn attack. It can follow the magical link back to its summoner."

How close do I have to be?

"The link is weak, so you'll have to be within about a hundred feet of the source."

Ildari's Grave

"I call upon the powers of the sun, moons and stars. Ildari Sarothril, reveal yourself!"

The ring points toward a small cemetery behind Tel Mithryn, where the grave of Neloth's former apprentice Ildari Sarothril is located. A heart stone is discovered inside her sarcophagus, which seems to be the source of the attacks. Once Neloth is informed of this discovery, he replies:

"Hmm. I've known for decades that heart stones will animate the ash. But it would have to be very close by. Where exactly did you find this heart stone?"

It was in Ildari Sarothril's grave.

"Ildari? Then it's my own fault. She was my apprentice before Talvas. She volunteered for one of my experiments involving heart stones. It was quite annoying when she died."

Experiment? What did you do to her?

"My necropsies of Spriggans led me to believe that a heart stone could be implanted in a person's chest, granting them great power. I was considering replacing my heart with a heart stone. Fortunately Ildari offered to let me operate on her first. Of course this was before your briarheart expedition. Now I know that I did the surgery all wrong."

There wasn't a body in the grave. Just the heart stone.

"What?! That's impossible. Wait... unless she didn't actually die! The heart stone could have kept her right at the edge of life and death. Could it be? Could Ildari still be alive? Could she be my nemesis? Wait a moment while I cast a more specific divination.

"She lives. Seek her in Highpoint Tower."

Amazed by the fact that his former apprentice could be alive, he then casts a divination to find where she might be hiding:

"I call upon the powers of the sun, moons and stars. Ildari Sarothril, reveal yourself!"

Once he has divined her location, he points to the sky and bellows:

"She lives. Seek her in Highpoint Tower."

He then follows up with:

"So, Ildari does live after all. She thought she could hide from me, but she can't! She's holed up in Highpoint Tower. Go rip that thrice cursed heart stone from her chest."

Before leaving for Highpoint Tower, he can also be asked two additional questions:

Why don't you do this? Why me?

"I don't have time to go traipsing all over Solstheim. If I don't hear back from you after a while, you're probably dead. Maybe I'll send Talvas out next."

Is there a bounty on her then?

"Why is it always about money? Yes, yes. I'll find something around here to pay you with. Now go."

Aren't you coming to Highpoint Tower?

"Me? No. Highpoint Tower will be filled with monsters and traps. It's much safer for me to risk your life. Don't worry. If you die, I'll find some other way to take care of Ildari. Be sure to bring back an amusing story of how Ildari died."

For House Telvanni

Upon returning to Tel Mithryn after Illdari has been dealt with, Neloth greets you with:

"You're alive. I hope that bodes ill for Ildari."

Ildari is dead.

"Well, well. You have proven to be a more valuable ally than I anticipated. I have a staff for you, but I would also like to make you a member of my household. A member of House Telvanni. No need to thank me. I know you are overwhelmed with gratitude."

What does it mean to be a member of your house?

"For now, not much. But in a few decades when I return to Vvardenfell, you would be seen as Morrowind nobility. In the mean time, we would keep a bed and chest here for you."

Once the quest is completed, Neloth may comment in passing:

"Things have been much calmer since you disposed of Ildari."

Azra's Staffs

"I'm a collector. Of staffs. Magical staffs. In particular, those made by Azra Nightwielder."

In a break from his research into ash and heart stones, Neloth makes a more personal request when asked if he needs any help:

Can I help with your research?

"Perhaps later. For now I have a slightly more personal request. You see, I'm a collector. Of staffs. Magical staffs. In particular, those made by Azra Nightwielder. Through some divinations, I believe I've located one. If you retrieve it, I'll give you a staff of my own making. Nightwielder's creations don't really hold up in comparison to what can be made today, but they have a sentimental value for me. You understand."

Who was Azra Nightwielder?

"He was the original shadowmage. His advances in magic are legendary. Less well known is that he was also a pioneer in the field of enchanting staffs. Every staff of his that I have uncovered has led me to greater understanding. Today we would consider his techniques rudimentary, but the genius is still evident."

Upon recovering the staff:

I've got Azra's staff.

"You didn't have to speak a word. I could sense it the moment you came in. You've proven your worth, and I'm as good as my word. Take this staff from my personal collection. I think you'll find it useful."

Wind and Sand

"I've been trying to adapt Redguard magic to the ash. I think the key concept I'm missing is recorded in Afa-Saryat's book, Wind and Sand."

"I think I can adapt this into a sort of whirlwind vortex energy."

Asking if he needs any help with his research, Neloth rudely replies:

Can I help with your research?

"Can you? Of course you can. What took you so long to ask? I've been trying to adapt Redguard magic to the ash. I think the key concept I'm missing is recorded in Afa-Saryat's book, Wind and Sand. I have some associates and correspondents who find things for me. One of them has a credible rumor on where this book might be. And I'd like you to find the truth of the matter."

As you walk away he will say:

"Don't just stand there. Go get my book!"

Upon recovering the book and returning to Tel Mithryn, Neloth impatiently asks:

"So? Do you have it? Did you get my book?"

The book was right where you said it would be.

"Perhaps this particular source was worth more than I thought he was. Pity. In any case, this is truly amazing. I think I can adapt this into a sort of whirlwind vortex energy. Yes, yes. I'll write it out, and you can pick up a copy from Talvas in a few days. In the mean time, take this for helping me."

Other Quests

The following pieces of dialogue are replies Neloth gives during certain quests in which he plays a minor role:

Condition	Your Dialogue	Neloth's Dialogue
During From the Ashes	Talvas summoned an Ash Guardian outside.	"What? That fool. His incompetence made this mess. Let's see how he decides to clean it up."
During Healing a House	Elynea said you needed these taproots.	"Yes. Yes, I do. But they are for her to use to repair my withered tower. I'm too busy to deal with this right now. Go take them to her."

Dialogue

Additional Topics

Tel Mithryn Meeting

Tel Mithryn

After meeting Neloth at the Earth Stone or once the Dragonborn quest has been completed, Neloth returns to Tel Mithryn where he can be spoken to further about several topics. His initial greeting can vary slightly, depending on your previous choices:

• If he was spoken to during the aforementioned quest, he will ask you: "You again. Didn't I see you in Raven Rock?"
• If this is the first time meeting him, he will instead remark: "I don't recall inviting you into my tower. I do hope you make this worth my while."

Either way, the next set of non quest-related dialogue options becomes available:

What is this building?

"This is a Telvanni tower. It's my citadel, grown from the spores of the giant fungus trees found in Morrowind. Back in the homeland, there are other Telvanni wizards that have them as well."

Telvanni? What are the Telvanni?

"The Telvanni are the master wizards of Morrowind. The greatest of us grow magical towers like this one from the mighty fungus trees. Together we form House Telvanni, one of the great houses of Morrowind. The great houses rule what is left of our once proud nation."

I've heard of the House Telvanni of Morrowind.

"Of course you have. Everyone has heard of the master wizards of Morrowind. We are one of the great houses that rule Morrowind."

After this reply, you can give him one of the following three replies. Two of the choices that may appear depend upon your progress in the College of Winterhold questline:

Your Dialogue	Neloth's Reply	Condition
You must be a very powerful wizard.	"I am likely the greatest wizard you will ever meet. Who else do you think could create a staff enchanter? If you make yourself useful around here, I might just let you use it."	Default option
You must be almost as powerful as Savros [sic] Aren of Winterhold.	"Savros [sic]? Ha! He wouldn't be fit to be my apprentice. Of course he does have a knack for wards that would be handy to learn. If you see him, let him know that I might be willing to take him on as my apprentice. For a price of course."	Questline progress between Under Saarthal and The Staff of Magnus
As the Archmage of Winterhold, you and I should share our secrets.	"Winterhold? That small college that is falling into the Sea of Ghosts? You're the one that recovered the Staff of Magnus. Impressive. Talvas should finish his apprenticeship in a couple of decades. Come see me then. I think I could teach you a trick or two."	The Eye of Magnus has been completed

The Sun Stone

If you visit Neloth at night, before the quest Cleansing the Stones has been completed, he can be heard remarking:

"All of my people have left to work on that sacred stone. It's quite fascinating. Annoying, but fascinating."

Where is everyone?

"They are off working on their pillar. Happens every night."

Can't you make them stop?

"Make them stop? Oh no, certainly not. At least not yet. Not until I've figured out what is going on. Imagine the power of being able to command entire villages to do your bidding. Imagine what I could do with that power."

They have gone off to work at the Sun Stone nearby, under the influence of Miraak. If you ask whether he can make them stop, he replies revealing his greed for power and showing that despite the inconvenience he is awestruck at the thought of wielding such authority.

A Black Book

Black Books

Once The Path of Knowledge quest has began, Neloth can be asked about the Black Books and their origins. He explains: "Hermaeus Mora has always tried to seduce mortals into his service with the lure of forbidden knowledge. Where the Black Books actually came from... no one really knows. Some appear to have been written in the past, others might be from the future. Apparently time is more malleable if you're a Daedric Prince of fate and destiny."

Heart Stones

During the quests Old Friends or Briarheart Necropsy, Neloth can be asked to expand on what heart stones are:

What is a heart stone?

"When Red Mountain erupted almost two hundred years ago, it flung ash and rocks for hundreds of miles. Among the debris were heart stones. Even two centuries later, they still smolder with the heat of the mountain. These are the molten rocks that lay next to the Heart of Lorkhan for millennia. Some vestige of its power must have seeped into them. I do know that heart stones sometimes raise ash spawn from the bits of bone buried in the nearby ash."

Morrowind

"You are too young to remember the Nerevarine. He defeated Dagoth Ur and saved us all from the blight."

Neloth can be questioned about the province of Morrowind after first meeting him. He replies with one of seven possible answers, though he can be asked the initial question repeatedly.

What can you tell me about Morrowind?

• "You are too young to remember the Nerevarine. He defeated Dagoth Ur and saved us all from the blight."
• "When the city of Vivec was destroyed, it took decades for us to rebuild. We are still but a shadow of our glorious past, but some day we will rise again."
• "There is the big island of Vvardenfell, and the coastal mainland. House Telvanni has it's [sic] properties on Vvardenfell. I've never been to the mainland myself."
• "Red Mountain dominates the island. Every now and then ash and debris from an eruption land on our shores."
• "It's the homeland of the dunmer. The lesser races call us dark elves. We built great works there, like Vivec and Ald'ruhn. Many of them are destroyed now, either by Red Mountain or the argonian invasion."
• "The ignorant think it is only a place of ash and lava. It had rolling green plains and swamps and verdant hills too."
• "It is the only place where silt striders can be found. Although I managed to transplant a few here when I arrived."

Conversations

Talvas

Neloth and his apprentice, Talvas Fathryon, occasionally partake in several brief conversations that can be heard when visiting Tel Mithryn. They typically result in Neloth berating his apprentice for one reason or another.

Neloth: "Did you fill those soul gems like I asked you?" Talvas: "Yes, master. Although the grand soul gem only has a common soul in it." Neloth: "Idiot! Those are hard to find. Next time don't fill it at all if you can't do it properly." "Did you fill those soul gems like I asked you?" Talvas: "Master, you promised to teach me a new conjuration spell." Neloth: "That was before you ruined that staff. Fix the staff and I'll teach you the spell." Talvas: "Yes, master. Thank you, master. I'll fix it right away." "Your enchanting has improved despite your best efforts." Neloth: "Your enchanting has improved despite your best efforts." Talvas: "Thank you, master. It's all because of your brilliant teaching." Neloth: "Don't think your false flattery will work on me, Talvas. You're still going to give me that skin sample." Talvas: "Yes, master." Talvas: "I've prepared the staff maker like you asked." Neloth: "Good, good. As soon as I'm done here, I'll try it out." Talvas: "May I keep this one, master?" Neloth: "We'll see. If the power levels aren't too high you may have it."

Varona

Neloth's steward, Varona Nelas, can be heard discussing her fateful trip to Raven Rock. Because Varona is scripted to die during the quest Reluctant Steward, this conversation can be easily missed if the quest has begun. See this section for how to avoid this.

Varona: "Master Neloth, I'm preparing for a trip to Raven Rock to pick up supplies. I have your list of soul gems, but nothing else." Neloth: "Hmm? Oh. Raven Rock. Right. I need soul gems..." Varona: "I know that. What else?" Neloth: "Maybe some daedra heart. Elynea never seems to stock it. Let me get you the rest of the list tomorrow. I'm just too busy to think about this right now." Varona: "That's what you said yesterday! I really can't put this trip off for much longer."

"I really can't put this trip off for much longer."

Drovas

Once Drovas Relvi becomes Neloth's new steward, the two can be heard discussing various matters during the day.

"Master Neloth, the silt strider traders just dropped off some supplies." Drovas: "Master Neloth, the silt strider traders just dropped off some supplies." Neloth: "What did they bring? Books? Soul gems?" Drovas: "Mostly books. There were a couple of soul gems, some ingredients for Elynea, and some strange wood." Neloth: "Ah! The wood is for the staffs. Put them away when you get a chance. But don't get in my way." Neloth: "Drovas, where's my tea?" Drovas: "I'll go fetch some, Master Neloth. Canis root, right?" Neloth: "Yes, yes. Canis root tea. And don't let Ulves water it down."

Other Dialogue

Quest Stage Dependent

The following pieces of dialogue can be heard in passing and depend upon on the stage of certain quests.

Condition	Dialogue
Prior to accepting Healing a House	"How am I supposed to get anything done with part of the tower withered like this?"
Upon completion of Healing a House	"Now that my tower is healed, I can finish some of my more delicate experiments."
	"How do you like my new laboratory? I use it to dissect spriggans. I've learned so much from them."
	"Talvas, I think I'll start with the burnt spriggan. They don't squirm as much."
During Reluctant Steward and Old Friends	"Everything that can go wrong is going wrong. Ash spawn attacks, my house, and even my steward is assassinated."
Upon completion of Reluctant Steward	"Where is that lazy steward of mine? Varona! No, wait. She's dead. Drovas!"
	"My new steward is...acceptable. If only he made better tea."
During Old Friends	"First it's ash spawn attacks. Then my home withers. It's almost like someone is out to get me."
Upon completion of Old Friends	"Things have been much calmer since you disposed of Ildari."
Upon completion of Experimental Subject B	"It was fascinating to watch those tentacles grow out of your eyes."
At night, before the completion of Cleansing the Stones	"All of my people have left to work on that sacred stone. It's quite fascinating. Annoying, but fascinating."
Upon completion of Cleansing the Stones	"It's good to have everyone not running off to that damn sacred stone every night. I suppose I have you to thank for that."
Encountering Krosulhah during The Path of Knowledge	"By Malacath's toenails, where did that come from?"
Upon completion of At the Summit of Apocrypha	"Miraak was a formidable opponent. I wonder what he would have been like as my apprentice."
	"Defeating Miraak was an impressive feat. I'm curious to see if Hermaeus Mora seeks you out because of it."
Upon completion of Dragon Rising	"I wonder if a dragon could be captured alive? It would make a fascinating test subject."

Combat Dialogue

Condition	Quote
When initiating battle	"Fire, storm and ice!"
	"By the fires of Red Mountain!"
	"So you chose to day [sic] to die..."
Taunting an enemy	"Dagon's eyeballs, but you're an ugly one, aren't you?"
	"I am a master wizard of House Telvanni!"
	"You cannot best my magic!"
	"The very elements are at my command!"
Attacking an enemy	"You are no match for my magic!"	"Die N'wah!"
	"Learn the power of the Telvanni!"	"Damn fetcher!"
	"For House Telvanni!"	"I've just the spell for you!"
	"Fear my power!"	"Time to die!"
	"Nyyahh!"	"Aggghh!"
Upon being hit	"Uh...now it's my turn!"	"Ah...damn you!"
	"By Malacath's hairy knuckles, you'll pay for that!"
Losing sight of an enemy	"You can't hide from a Telvanni wizard!"	"You can only hide so long."
	"Some sort of trickery is at work here."	"I'll find you."
	"So you want to play hide and seek, eh?"	"Come out!"
When hearing a noise	"Just the shadows playing tricks."	"Hmm. Nothing, I guess."
	"Is someone there?"	"Come out this instant!"
	"I could have sworn...oh well."	"Yes? Who's there?"
	"What was that?"	"Hmm? Show yourself!"
When giving up the search	"Ha! I guess they fled."	"Well. Nobody is here now."
	"Must have scared them away."
Finding a hidden enemy	"Thought you could hide, eh?"	"There you are!"
	"So that's where you went!"	"Aha!"
Surrendering to him	"So, you are smart enough to surrender to a master wizard of the House Telvanni."
	"I should kill you anyway, but that would be boring."
Fighting a dragon	"You are no match for me, dragon!"
	"I command powers you can only dream of!"
Defeating an enemy	"That's that."
	"Hardly a challenge."
	"No match for my magic."
	"Should have known better than to challenge a master wizard of the House Telvanni."

Greetings Neloth greets you with any of the following lines when passing by or initiating a conversation with him: Dialogue "If you're going to be up here, stay out of my way." "Do you need all your toes? I could really use a fresh toe for...nevermind. You aren't moldy enough." "It's as if Tel Mithryn is cursed. Spoiled food, ash spawn attacks, my servants constantly getting sick. What's next?" "The ash from Red Mountain holds secrets. Secrets I mean to uncover."

Farewells The following lines can be heard when ending a conversation: Dialogue "Now where did I put...Oh, yeah." "Finally. I can get back to work." "Are we done? I thought so." "That's that then." "Hmph."

Reactions

Condition	Quote
Attempting to pickpocket him	"Do you have a death wish?"
	"I wouldn't if I were you. A wizard's pockets can be more dangerous than a dragon's mouth."
	"Keep your prying hands away from my secrets."
	"Get your hand out of my pocket!"
Stealing	"Does stealing make you feel less impotent?"
	"I see you have little in the way of morals."
	"Thief! I'll teach you."
	"So you think you can steal from me?"
Assaulting him	"You dare attack me?"
	"I'll make you pay for that!"
Bumping into an object	"Clumsy oaf!"
	"Watch out! My equipment is fragile."
Bumping into him	"Watch where you're going."
	"Stop that!"
Using a shout	"Yes, yes. You're Dragonborn. We're all very impressed."
	"Was that really necessary?"
Inspecting a corpse	"What a waste of a good specimen."
	"Hmm. I'll have to get someone to bring this to my lab."
When near his spriggan room in Tel Mithryn	"Well, my pretties. What shall we do today? Maybe see if you can regenerate your fingers?"
	"There must be a way. I'll find it if I have to vivisect every spriggan on this island."
Encountering/defeating a Dwemer automaton	"I admire the Dwemer skill but it can get tiresome."
	"Try putting yourself back together now."
	"Another one for the scrap heap of history."
	"More of these things?"
	"There seems to be an inexhaustible supply of these Dwemer contraptions."
	"I think they may be rebuilding themselves while we're not looking."
Picking up an object	"What do you think you're doing?"
	"That belongs to me."
Transforming into a werewolf	"A werewolf? Here?"

Notes

• Neloth appeared previously in Morrowind.
• Neloth refers to the Nerevarine as a male with the line: "You are too young to remember the Nerevarine. He defeated Dagoth Ur and saved us all from the blight."
  • Michael Kirkbride, a former designer for Bethesda Softworks, states that "That line was a mistake a designer made in haste. Consider it a glitch."
  • This is changed by the Unofficial Dragonborn Patch, though it is not noted in their changelogs.

Bugs

• If you start either of his quests and make him wait long enough, it's possible he will follow you into Skyrim.^{[verification needed — Details needed] ?}
• If you steal an item with a rather high value, even if it doesn't belong to any of his factions or himself and even if you stole the item undetected, Neloth and his apprentice will attack you. ^?
  • You can fix this by getting rid of the stolen item. If you're unsure of what item it is, consider getting caught by guards for a crime.
• Neloth and his apprentice may also become hostile if you kill Mogrul, this can happen whether you received a bounty or not and can be fixed by committing a crime and paying off the bounty. ^?