The Greybeards

"An order of philosopher monks who are masters of the Way of the Voice, the Greybeards live in silent isolation atop Skyrim’s largest mountain."

 are an ancient and honored order that dwell in their mountain sanctuary High Hrothgar, which is located on the highest mountain peak in Skyrim, the Throat of the World. As absolute masters of thu'um, or "the Voice", they live in absolute silence in order to better attune themselves to the voice of the sky.

Characteristics
When they speak, storms brew above High Hrothgar, and people are forced to evacuate due to the imminent danger of avalanches. They shout out Dovahkiin, and it rumbles through the world, and the mountains shake, such is their power, the last time that they spoke was when they announced the greatness of Tiber Septim. There are currently only five members of the Greybeards left. Four of the monks reside in High Hrothgar. Their Grand Master resides higher up on the Throat Of The World.

Combat
Upon attacking a member of the Greybeards, the player will likely be instantly frozen by the ice form shout, and quickly killed by a means of magic and shouts. This also happens if the player attempts to pickpocket one of the Greybeards and is unsuccessful. However, they do have some rare and uncommon items such as The Amulet of Talos, and many ingredients. If the player manages to reduce the target's health to zero, the Greybeard will merely be unconscious, and upon regaining consciousness, will proceed to kill the player.

Quests
The Greybeards are featured prominently in the main questline. When completing the Dragon Rising quests they call out for the Dragonborn, summoning him to them so that they may meet and test him. They also help the Dragonborn understand the unique power he weilds.

List of Greybeards

 * Arngeir
 * Borri
 * Wulfgar
 * Einarth
 * Paarthurnax (Grand Master)

Appearances

 * The Elder Scrolls Adventures: Redguard
 * The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim