Arngeir is a powerful elderGreybeard who serves as the instructor and mentor in the Way of the Voice for the Dragonborn and others, like Ulfric Stormcloak. He also serves as a general spokesman for the Greybeards since the others cannot speak without using the Thu'um.
He and his fellow Greybeards live at High Hrothgar. He can be found meditating in one of the wings of High Hrothgar, sleeping in the bedroom at the western end of High Hrothgar, or in the High Hrothgar Courtyard behind the building.
He is one of the only two Greybeards that will talk with the Dragonborn or any other inhabitant of Tamriel, the other being Paarthurnax.
After the Dragonborn retrieves the Horn of Jurgen Windcaller, he can be asked where to find a Word of Power by asking "Have you located any Words of Power?" Then there are two possible replies: "We heard a whisper of a Word. Give me your map, and I will show you where its echo can be found" - with that, a location will be added to the map and a miscellaneous objective will be added to the Journal. If he has no locations to show you, Arngeir will say: "There is only silence right now. Perhaps later we will hear one of the lost Words."
If the Dragonborn speaks to him about the Blades wanting Paarthurnax killed, he will respond by calling them bloodthirsty barbarians and will mention his warning to the Dragonborn about the Blades when the Dragonborn asked about the Dragonrendshout. If asked about what the Blades said about Paarthurnax, he will reveal that what they say is true, but will explain that all dragons served Alduin and that, had it not been for Paarthurnax, the rebellion against Alduin would have failed.
If the Dragonborn says they will not kill Paarthurnax, he will respond saying that Kynareth bestowed the gift of wisdom on the Dragonborn and urges them to continue on their path. If this is done before Season Unending, when Delphine says that the Blades deserve to be there because they sent the Dragonborn down that path, he will counter saying they (The Greybeards) know what path the Blades put the Dragonborn on, but they have chosen a different path. He will then say that Paarthurnax is safe from the Blades' malice, to which Delphine says "for now" and that the Blades' memory is long. Should the Dragonborn say that they are still unsure of what to do, Arngeir will highlight the need to think the decision through carefully, but will still praise the decision by saying, "Doing nothing can be the wisest choice, although strangely often the most difficult."
If the Dragonborn chooses to kill Paarthurnax, Arngeir will reprimand them for doing so. He will say, "This is how you repay our trust?! Paarthurnax's trust?! His noble spirit... the wisdom of ages... his deep understanding of our existence... all gone and for what? A mindless vendetta urged on by a cabal of Akaviri barbarians! Begone, before even my philosophy is tested beyond the breaking point. We are men of peace. You are not." The Dragonborn will be essentially denounced by the Greybeards, and they cannot be asked to help find Word Walls.
If this is done before Season Unending, he will talk to the Dragonborn again during the quest, but afterwards, the only dialogue will be "We have nothing to say to each other. Paarthurnax's murder is beyond my powers of forgiveness."
"So... a Dragonborn appears, at this moment in the turning of the age."
I'm answering your summons."We will see if you truly have the gift. Show us, Dragonborn. Let us taste of your Voice."
You call me Dragonborn. What does it mean?"First, let us see if you truly are Dragonborn. Let us taste of your Voice."
Before shouting:
"Shout for us, Dragonborn. Then we may have time for questions." "Show us, Dragonborn. Let us taste of your Voice." "Do not be afraid. Your Shout will not harm us." "Strike us with the power of your Voice." "Shout at us, and let us taste of your Voice."
After shouting:
"Dragonborn. It is you. Welcome to High Hrothgar."
When Arngeir approaches:
"I am master Arngeir. I speak for the Greybeards. Now, tell me, Dragonborn, why have you come here?"
Who are you? What is this place?"We are the Greybeards, followers of the Way of the Voice. You stand in High Hrothgar, on the slopes of Kynareth's sacred mountain. Here we commune with the voice of the sky, and strive to achieve balance between our inner and outer selves."
I want to find out what it means to be Dragonborn."We are here to guide you in that pursuit, just as the Greybeards have sought to guide those of the Dragon Blood that came before you."
You mean I'm not the only Dragonborn?"You are not the first. There have been many of the Dragon Blood since Akatosh first bestowed that gift upon mortalkind. Whether you are the only Dragonborn of this age... that is not ours to know. You are the only one that has been revealed thus far. That is all I can say."
I'm answering your summons, Master."We are honored to welcome a Dragonborn to High Hrothgar. We will do our best to teach you how to use your gift in fulfillment of your destiny."
What is my destiny?"That is for you to discover. We can show you the Way, but not your destination."
I'm ready to learn."You have shown that you are Dragonborn. You have the inborn gift. But do you have the discipline and temperament to follow the path laid out for you? That remains to be seen."
After speaking to Arngeir:
"Without training, you have already taken the first steps towards projecting your Voice into a Thu'um, a Shout. Now let us see if you are willing and able to learn. When you Shout, you speak in the language of dragons. Thus, your Dragon Blood gives you an inborn ability to learn Words of Power. All Shouts are made up of three Words of Power. As you master each Word, your Shout will become progressively stronger. Master Einarth will now teach you "Ro," the second Word in Unrelenting Force. Ro means "Balance" in the dragon tongue. Combine it with Fus - "Force" - to focus your Thu'um more sharply."
Einarth:"Ro..."
"You learn a new word like a master... you truly do have the gift. But learning a Word of Power is only the first step... you must unlock its meaning through constant practice in order to use it in a Shout. Well, that is how the rest of us learn Shouts. As Dragonborn, you can absorb a slain dragon's life force and knowledge directly. As part of your initiation, Master Einarth will allow you to tap into his understanding of "Ro." Now let us see how quickly you can master your new Thu'um. Use your Unrelenting Force shout to strike the targets as they appear."
Borri:"Fiik... Lo...Sah!"
"Well done. Again."
Einarth:"Fiik... Lo...Sah!"
"You learn quickly. Once more."
Wulfgar:"Fiik... Lo...Sah!"
"Impressive. Your Thu'um is precise. You show great promise, Dragonborn. We will perform your next trial in the courtyard. Follow Master Borri."
In the courtyard:
"We will now see how you learn a completely new Shout. Master Borri will teach you "Wuld," which means "Whirlwind."" (If the Dragonborn already knows a word of Whirlwind Sprint: "I see that you have already begun to learn the Whirlwind Sprint Shout. Master Borri will teach you "Nah" – "Fury" – the second word of Whirlwind Sprint." or ""Kest" – "Tempest" – the third word of Whirlwind Sprint." if two words are known.)
Borri:"Wuld..." ("Nah..." if one word is known or "Kest..." if two are known)
"You must hear the word within yourself before you can project it into a Thu'um. Approach Master Borri and he will gift you his knowledge of"Wuld." ("Nah." if one word is known, or "Kest." if two are known)Now we will see how quickly you can master a newShout ("Word" if Whirlwind Sprint was already known). Master Wulfgar will demonstrate Whirlwind Sprint. Then it will be your turn. Master Borri."
Bori:"Bex!"
Wulfgar:"Wuld... Nah...Kest!"
"Now it is your turn. Stand next to me. Master Borri will open the gate. Use your Whirlwind Sprint to pass through before it closes."
Borri:"Bex!"
If approached again:
"Your quick mastery of a new Thu'um is... astonishing. I'd heard the stories of the abilities of Dragonborn, but to see it for myself..."
I thought it was this easy for everyone."No. Indeed not. But beware that your skill does not outstrip your wisdom. You are now ready for your last trial."
I don't know how I do it. It just happens."You were given this gift by the gods for a reason. It is up to you to figure out how to best use it. You are now ready for your last trial."
Thank you. What's next?"You are now ready for your last trial."
"Retrieve the Horn of Jurgen Windcaller, our founder, from his tomb in the ancient fane of Ustengrav. Remain true to the Way of the Voice, and you will return."
Why are the dragons returning? Does it have something to do with me?"No doubt. The appearance of a Dragonborn at this time is not an accident. Your destiny is surely bound up with the return of the dragons. You should focus on honing your Voice, and soon your path will be made clear."
Thank you, Master. I will continue my training."Good. Then you will be ready for whatever lies ahead."
Surely there's more you can tell me."There is indeed much that we know that you do not. That does not mean that you are ready to understand it. Do not let your easy mastery of the Voice tempt you into arrogance of power that has been the downfall of many Dragonborn before you."
What does it mean to be "Dragonborn"?"Dragons have the inborn ability to learn and project their Voice. Dragons also are able to absorb the power of their slain brethren. A few mortals are born with similar abilities -- whether a gift or a curse has been a matter of debate down through the centuries. What you have already learned in a few days took even the most gifted of us years to achieve. Some believe that Dragonborn are sent into the world by the gods, at times of great need. We will speak more of that later, when you are ready."
Why are Shouts in the dragon language?"Dragons have always been able to Shout. Language is intrinsic to their very being. There is no difference in the dragon tongue between debating and fighting. Shouting comes as naturally to a dragon as breathing, or speaking. In mythic times, when mortalkind was in great need, the goddess Kynareth granted us the ability to speak as dragons do. For most people, long years of training are required to learn even the simplest Shout. But for you, the dragon speech is in your blood, and you learn it almost without effort."
There are only four of you?"Five. Our leader, Paarthurnax, lives alone on the peak of the Throat of the World. When your Voice can open the path, you will know you are ready to speak to him."
When can I meet your leader, Paarthurnax?"As I said, you will know you are ready when your Voice can open the path to him."
Tell me about the Greybeards."We study the Way of the Voice, according to the teachings of our founder, Jurgen Windcaller. Very few are permitted to study with us here at High Hrothgar. But in your case, Dragonborn, it is a privilege to guide you towards mastery of your Voice."
Why don't the others talk?"Their Voices are too powerful for anyone not trained in the Way to withstand. Even a whisper could kill you."
There are only four of you?"Five. Our leader, Paarthurnax, lives alone on the peak of the Throat of the World. When your Voice can open the path, you will know you are ready to speak to him."
When can I meet your leader, Paarthurnax?"As I said, you will know you are ready when your Voice can open the path to him."
Who was Jurgen Windcaller?"He was a great war leader of the ancient Nords, a master of the Voice, or Tongue. After the disaster at Red Mountain, where the Nord army was annihilated, he spent many years pondering the meaning of that terrible defeat. He finally came to realise that the gods had punished the Nords for their arrogant and blasphemous misuse of the Voice. He was the first to understand that the Voice should be used solely for the glory and worship of the gods, not the glory of men. Jurgen Windcaller's mastery of the Voice eventually overcame all opposition, and the Way of the Voice was born."
What is the "Way of the Voice"?"The Voice was a gift of the goddess Kynareth, at the dawn of time. She gave the mortals the ability to speak as dragons do. Although this gift has often been misused, the only true use of the Voice is for the worship and glory of the gods. True mastery of the Voice can only be achieved when your inner spirit is in harmony with your outward actions. In the contemplation of the sky, Kynareth's domain, and the practice of the Voice, we strive to achieve this balance."
But I don't follow your philosophy. Why help me learn the Voice?"The Dragonborn is an exception to all the rules - the Dragon Blood itself is a gift of the gods. If we accept one gift, how can we deny the other? As Dragonborn, you have received the ability to Shout directly from Akatosh. We therefore seek to guide you on the proper use of your gift, which transcends the restrictions which bind other mortals."
I will try to follow the Way of the Voice."That is commendable. But remember, the Dragon Blood is itself a gift of Akatosh. Do not try to deny that gift. Your destiny requires you to use your Voice - why else would Akatosh have bestowed this power upon you? If you remember to use your Voice in service to the purpose of Akatosh, you will remain true to the Way."
"Ah! You've retrieved the Horn of Jurgen Windcaller. Well done. You have now passed all the trials. Come with me. It is time for us to recognize you fully as Dragonborn."
The acknowledgement:
"You are ready to learn the final word of Unrelenting Force, "Dah," which means "Push.""
Wulfgar:"Dah..."
"With all three words together, this Shout is much more powerful. Use it wisely. Master Wulfgar will now gift you with his knowledge of "Dah.""
During the ritual:
"You have completed your training, Dragonborn. We would Speak to you. Stand between us, and prepare yourself. Few can withstand the unbridled Voice of the Greybeards. But you are ready."
"Lingrah krosis saraan Strundu'ul, voth nid balaan klov praan nau. (Long sorrowfully (has) waited the Stormcrown, with no worthy head to rest on.)Naal Thu'umu, mu ofan nii nu, Dovahkiin, naal suleyk do Kaan, naal suleyk do Shor, ahrk naal suleyk do Atmorasewuth. (By our Voice we give it now (to you), Dragonborn, by (the) power of Kyne, by the power of Shor, and by the power of Atmora-of-old.)Meyz nu Ysmir, Dovahsebrom. Dahmaan daar rok. ((You have) become now Ysmir, Dragon of the North. Remember these words.)"
"Dovahkiin. You have tasted the Voice of the Greybeards, and passed through unscathed. High Hrothgar is open to you."
If approached again:
"Your training proceeds well, Dragonborn."
What was that ceremony all about? Were you Shouting at me?"We spoke the traditional words of greeting to a Dragonborn who has accepted our guidance. The same words were used to greet the young Talos, when he came to High Hrothgar, before he became the Emperor Tiber Septim."
What did you actually say?"Ah. I sometimes forget you are not versed in the dragon tongue as we are. This is a rough translation:"
"Long has the Stormcrown languised, with no worthy brow to sit upon."
"By our breath we bestow it now to you in the name of Kyne, in the name of Shor, and in the name of Atmora of Old."
"You are Ysmir now, the Dragon of the North, hearken to it."
I'd like to learn more about the Voice."You have learned so much already, Dragonborn. Growing your gift too quickly would be dangerous. But there are many Words of Power in Skyrim, carved in the Dragon tongue. Even from here, we can feel the Thu'um resonate from them. Finding these lost Words would be a sufficient test, to temper your abilities with experience. Ask when you are ready to search."
"We have felt the whisper of a Word. Give me your map, and I will show you where its echo can be found."
I need to learn the Shout used to defeat Alduin."Where did you learn of that? Who have you been talking to?"
Does it matter?"Yes. For matters of such gravity, we need to know where you stand. Or who you stand with."
Who I stand with is my business."If you wish to stand alone, so be it. If you wish for our help, you'll answer my question."
I have nothing to hide. The Blades helped me find out about it."The Blades! Of course. They specialize in meddling in matters they barely understand. Their reckless arrogance knows no bounds. They have always sought to turn the Dragonborn from the path of wisdom. Have you learned nothing from us? Would you simply be a tool in the hands of the Blades, to be used for their own purposes?"
It was recorded on Alduin's Wall."The Blades! Of course. They specialize in meddling in matters they barely understand. Their reckless arrogance knows no bounds. They have always sought to turn the Dragonborn from the path of wisdom. Have you learned nothing from us? Would you simply be a tool in the hands of the Blades, to be used for their own purposes?"
The Blades helped me find out about it."The Blades! Of course. They specialize in meddling in matters they barely understand. Their reckless arrogance knows no bounds. They have always sought to turn the Dragonborn from the path of wisdom. Have you learned nothing from us? Would you simply be a tool in the hands of the Blades, to be used for their own purposes?"
The Blades are helping me. I'm not their puppet."No, no, of course not. Forgive me, Dragonborn. I have been intemperate with you. But heed my warning - the Blades may say they serve the Dragonborn, but they do not. They never have."
So, can you teach me this Shout?"No. I cannot teach it to you because I do not know it. It is called "Dragonrend," but its Words of Power are unknown to us. We do not regret this loss. Dragonrend holds no place within the Way of the Voice."
I thought you knew all the Words of Power."But not Dragonrend. The knowledge of that Shout was lost in the time before history began. Perhaps only its creators ever knew it. But I am not the one to speak of it to you."
What's so bad about Dragonrend?"It was created by those who had lived under the unimaginable cruelty of Alduin's Dragon Cult. Their whole lives were consumed with hatred for dragons, and they poured all their anger and hatred into this Shout. When you learn a Shout, you take it into your very being. In a sense, you become the Shout. In order to learn and use this Shout, you will be taking this evil into yourself."
If the Shout is lost, how can I defeat Alduin?"Only Paarthurnax, the master of our order, can answer that question, if he so chooses."
Who is Paarthurnax?"He is our leader. He surpasses us all in his mastery of the Way of the Voice."
Why haven't I met Paarthurnax yet?"He lives in seclusion on the very peak of the mountain. He speaks to us only rarely, and never to outsiders. Being allowed to see him is a great privilege."
How do I get to the top of the mountain to see him?"Only those whose Voice is strong can find the path. Come. We will teach you a Shout to open the way to Paarthurnax."
I need to speak to Paarthurnax, then."You weren't ready. You still aren't ready. But thanks to the Blades, you now have questions that only Paarthurnax can answer."
At least the Blades aren't keeping secrets from me."Do not be so sure about that. Beware - the Blades may claim to serve the Dragonborn, but they do not. They never have. As for me, I kept from you what you were not yet ready to know. Are still not ready to know, as your question reveals."
The Blades just want to defeat Alduin. Don't you?"What I want is irrelevant. This Shout was used once before was it not? And here we are again. Have you considered that Alduin was not meant to be defeated? Those who overthrew him in ancient times only postponed the day of reckoning, they did not stop it. If the world is meant to end, so be it. Let it end and be reborn."
So you won't help me?"No. Not now. Not until you return to the path of wisdom."
Einarth:"Arngeir, Rok los Dovahkiin, Strundu'ul. Rok fen tinvaak Paarthurnax."
"Dragonborn... wait. Forgive me. I was... intemperate. I allowed my emotions to cloud my judgement. Master Einarth reminded me of my duty. The decision whether or not to help you is not mine to make."
So, can you teach me this Shout?"No. I cannot teach it to you because I do not know it. It is called "Dragonrend," but its Words of Power are unknown to us. We do not regret this loss. Dragonrend holds no place within the Way of the Voice."
I thought you knew all the Words of Power."But not Dragonrend. The knowledge of that Shout was lost in the time before history began. Perhaps only its creators ever knew it. But I am not the one to speak of it to you."
What's so bad about Dragonrend?"It was created by those who had lived under the unimaginable cruelty of Alduin's Dragon Cult. Their whole lives were consumed with hatred for dragons, and they poured all their anger and hatred into this Shout. When you learn a Shout, you take it into your very being. In a sense, you become the Shout. In order to learn and use this Shout, you will be taking this evil into yourself."
If the Shout is lost, how can I defeat Alduin?"Only Paarthurnax, the master of our order, can answer that question, if he so chooses."
Who is Paarthurnax?"He is our leader. He surpasses us all in his mastery of the Way of the Voice."
Why haven't I met Paarthurnax yet?"He lives in seclusion on the very peak of the mountain. He speaks to us only rarely, and never to outsiders. Being allowed to see him is a great privilege."
How do I get to the top of the mountain to see him?"Only those whose Voice is strong can find the path. Come. We will teach you a Shout to open the way to Paarthurnax."
I need to speak to Paarthurnax, then."You weren't ready. You still aren't ready. But thanks to the Blades, you now have questions that only Paarthurnax can answer."
If approached again:
"Follow me. I will show you how to open the path to Paarthurnax."
Is there another way to defeat Alduin?"Perhaps not. This Shout was used once before was it not? And here we are again. Have you considered that Alduin was not meant to be defeated? Those who overthrew him in ancient times only postponed the day of reckoning, they did not stop it. If the world is meant to end, so be it. Let it end and be reborn."
I'm sure Alduin would be glad if everyone had that attitude."Do not confuse inaction with indifference. Often the wisest course is to wait and watch events unfold, until the time to act is clear. The Blades have never followed that path, of course."
That's exactly what Delphine warned me you'd say."Those who are ignorant find the Way of the Voice easy to ridicule. This is why so few follow it, and why the world is as it is."
The prophecy says I'm the only one who can defeat Alduin."Ah, the prophecy. Be wary of prophecy. Some are meant as a guide. Some as a warning. Are you sure you can tell one from the other?"
What's so bad about the Dragonrend Shout?"It was created by those who had lived under the unimaginable cruelty of Alduin's Dragon Cult. Their whole lives were consumed with hatred for dragons, and they poured all their anger and hatred into this Shout. When you learn a Shout, you take it into your very being. In a sense, you become the Shout. In order to learn and use this Shout, you will be taking this evil into yourself."
"The Dragonrend Shout is evil. Would you cure one evil with another?"
Why do you hate the Blades?"Not hate. Distrust and fear. The Blades have always sought to turn the Dragonborn away from the path of wisdom."
"The Blades were born of dragon-hating crusaders. They still carry that legacy although they may not remember from whence it came. They carried out a genocide of dragons when they first came to Tamriel, and now they will do it again, with your help."
The dragons are terrorizing Skyrim. Don't you think they need to be stopped?"That may be what you are here for, Dragonborn. But stopping Alduin is one thing. Helping you wipe out dragons again is quite another. Dragons are part of the natural order of the world. The Blades thought to change the order to suit themselves, by wiping out the dragons. But again, we see that the natural order will be restored, one way or another. Perhaps we would have dragon allies against Alduin if the ancient Blades had not acted so arrogantly."
"Sky above, Voice within."
When Clear Skies is taught:
"The path to Paarthurnax lies through this gate. I will show you how to open the way." "Lok..." "Vah..." "Koor..." "I will grant you my understanding of Clear Skies. This is your final gift from us, Dragonborn. Use it well. Clear Skies will blow away the mist, but only for a time. The path to Paarthurnax is perilous, not to be embarked upon lightly. Keep moving, stay focused on your goal, and you will reach the summit."
"So... you spoke to Paarthurnax. The dragonblood burns bright within you. Did he tell you what you wanted to know? Did he teach you the Dragonrend Shout?"
No, but he told me how to find out."So be it. If he believes it is necessary for you to learn this... we will bow to his wisdom."
I need the Elder Scroll the ancients used. Do you know where to find it?"We have never concerned ourselves with the Scrolls. The gods themselves would rightly fear to tamper with such things. As for where to find it... such blasphemies have always been the stock in trade of the mages of Winterhold. They may be able to tell you something about the Elder Scroll you seek."
Any idea where to find the Elder Scroll?"Such blasphemies are the calling of mages, not followers of the Way. Take your question to the College of Winterhold. They may be able to help you."
"Alduin... we heard the Dragonrend Shout from here... you defeated him?"
Yes, but he escaped. I need to find out where he went."The old tales say that he is able to travel into Sovngarde to devour the souls of the dead. But they don't say how he does this."
One of his dragon allies could tell us..."Yes, of course! But how to force a dragon to talk to you... There is one possibility. But... no, the Jarl would never agree."
The Jarl? What are you talking about?"Do you know Dragonsreach? The Jarl of Whiterun's palace? Its name is no accident. The palace was originally built to hold a captive dragon."
But I thought there weren't any dragons until Alduin came back."Oh, this was back in the days of Olaf One-Eye, thousands of years ago. In those days, dragons could still be found among the remote mountain peaks. Before the Blades wiped them all out."
So if I could lure a dragon into Dragonsreach..."You might be able to trap him there, exactly. You'd require the Jarl's cooperation, of course. That might not be easy to come by. You must trust in the rightness of your cause, and the strength of your Voice."
"Breath and focus."
If approached again:
Where has Alduin gone?"The old tales say that he is able to travel into Sovngarde to devour the souls of the dead. You must find out how he does this, before he regains his strength and returns."
"Alduin... we heard the Dragonrend Shout from here... you defeated him?"
Yes, but he escaped. I need to find out where he went."I feared as much. I thought it was him we saw flying east after your battle."
I need your help. I need to capture a dragon."We are not warriors. What is overlooked in the Dragonborn is not permitted to any other followers of the Way of the Voice."
I'll worry about capturing a dragon. I need your help to stop the war."You misunderstand our authority. The Greybeards have never involved themselves in political affairs."
Jarl Balgruuf won't help me while the war rages."I see. The dragon will lead you to Alduin, but without the Jarl's help..."
Both sides respect the Greybeards. They will listen."Paarthurnax has made his decision to help you. This is the road we have to walk. Even the Greybeards must bend to the winds of change, it seems. So be it. Tell Ulfric and General Tullius that the Greybeards wish to speak to them. We will see if they still remember us."
If approached again:
Are you ready to host the peace council?"Deliver the message to the warring parties. If they will listen, I will do what I can to bring them to terms."
When both parties have agreed to attend:
"So, you've done it. The men of violence are gathered here, in these halls whose very stones are dedicated to peace. I should not have agreed to host this council. The Greybeards have no business involving themselves in such matters."
Don't worry. I'll get them to agree to peace."Peace? I doubt it. They may put their weapons down for a moment, but only to gather strength for the next bloodletting. They are not yet tired of war. Far from it. Do you know the ancient Nord word for war? "Season unending.".. so it has proved."
This was the only way to get Balgruuf's help."Yes, yes. Which is why I allowed this... violation of all our traditions."
"But regrets are pointless. Here we are. Take your seat at the council table and let us see what wisdom we can find among these warriors of Skyrim."
The Blades want me to kill Paarthurnax."Now you see why I've warned you against them! Bloodthirsty barbarians!"
Is it true what they said? Was he Alduin's ally?"Yes. But understand - during the days of Alduin's rule, all dragons were his allies. There was nothing else they could be. If not for Paarthurnax, Alduin could not have been overthrown. It was he that first taught men to use the Thu'um."
He still needs to pay for his crimes."The same could be said for any of us, could it not? Are you so guiltless as to stand in judgment upon Paarthurnax? Listen to your inner Voice before acting. Do not allow the Blades to bully you into doing something you will later regret. After all, repentance is something you deny to Paarthurnax by meting out your so-called justice."
I haven't decided what to do yet."You're learning, Dragonborn. Doing nothing can be the wisest choice, although strangely often the most difficult. I trust that you will make the right choice, in the end. Listen to the Voice that Kynareth has placed within you, and your path will be clear."
Don't worry, I'm not going to kill Paarthurnax."Kynareth has placed the Voice of wisdom within you, Dragonborn. All you need do is learn to listen to it, and your path will be clear."
Paarthurnax is dead."This is how you repay our trust? Paarthurnax's trust? His noble spirit... the wisdom of ages... his deep understanding of our existence... all gone, and for what? A mindless vendetta urged on you by a cabal of Akaviri barbarians! Begone, before even my philosophy is tested beyond the breaking point. We are men of peace, and you are not."
"I can see it in your eyes - you've seen the land of the gods and returned. Does this mean... is it done? Is Alduin truly defeated?"
Yes. I went to Sovngarde and killed Alduin there."At last. It is over. Perhaps it was all worth it, in the end."
As dead as I can make him."Then it is done at last. Perhaps it was all worth it, in the end."
I hope so. But I don't know if Alduin can ever be completely destroyed."Perhaps, perhaps not. Dragons are not like normal mortal creatures, and Alduin is unique even among dragonkind. He may be permitted to return at the end of time to fulfill his destiny as the World-Eater. But that is for the gods to decide. You have done your part."
"You've shown yourself mighty, both in Voice and deed. In order to defeat Alduin, you've gained mastery of dreadful weapons. Now it is up to you to decide what to do with your power and skill. Will you be a hero whose name is remembered in song throughout the ages? Or will your name be a curse to future generations? Or will you merely fade from history, unremembered? Let the Way of the Voice be your guide, and the path of wisdom will be clear to you. Breath and focus, Dragonborn. Your future lies before you."
If approached again:
"We are all in your debt, Dragonborn."
Is Alduin really dead? I didn't absorb his soul when he died."Perhaps, perhaps not. Dragons are not like normal mortal creatures, and Alduin is unique even among dragonkind. He may be permitted to return at the end of time to fulfill his destiny as the World-Eater. But that is for the gods to decide. You have done your part."
Delphine:"So. Arngeir, is it? You know why we're here. Are you going to let us in or not?"Arngeir:"You were not invited here. You are not welcome here."Delphine:"We have as much right to be at this council as all of you. More, actually, since we were the ones that put the Dragonborn on this path."Arngeir:"Were you? The hubris of the Blades truly knows no bounds."Esbern:"Delphine, we're not here to rehearse old grudges. The matter at hand is urgent. Alduin must be stopped. You wouldn't have called this council if you didn't agree. We know a great deal about the situation and the threat that Alduin poses to us all. You need us here if you want this council to succeed."Arngeir:"Very well. You may enter."
Arngeir:"Now that everyone is here, please take your seats so we can begin. I hope that we have all come here in the spirit of..."Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"No. You insult us by bringing her to this negotiation? Your chief Talos-hunter?"Legate Rikke:"That didn't take long."Galmar:"Hear, hear!"Elenwen:"I have every right to be at this negotiation. I need to ensure that nothing is agreed to here that violates the terms of the White-Gold Concordat."Tullius:"She's part of the Imperial delegation. You can't dictate who I bring to this council."Arngeir:"Please. If we have to negotiate the terms of the negotiation, we will never get anywhere. Perhaps this would be a good time to get the Dragonborn's input on this matter."
After stating that Elenwen stays:
Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"But she is to observe, nothing more. We are not negotiating with her, is that clear?"Elenwen:"Ulfric, why so hostile? After all, it's not the Thalmor that's burning your farms and killing your sons."Legate Rikke:"She's supposed to be on our side?"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"You know exactly... no. Not this time."Arngeir:"Now that that's settled, may we proceed?"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"I have something to say first."Legate Rikke:"Here we go."Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"The only reason I agreed to attend this council was to deal with the dragon menace. There's nothing else to talk about, unless the Empire is finally ready to renounce its unjust claim over the free people of Skyrim."Legate Rikke:"I knew he wouldn't be able to resist."Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"We're here to arrange a temporary truce to allow the Dragonborn here to deal with the dragons. Nothing more. I consider even talking to the Empire a generous gesture."Tullius:"Are you done? Did you just come here to make speeches? Or can we get down to business?"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"Yes, let's get this over with."Arngeir:"Are we ready to proceed? Jarl Ulfric. General Tullius. This council is unprecedented. We are gathered here at the Dragonborn's request. I ask that you all respect the spirit of High Hrothgar, and do your best to begin the process of achieving a lasting peace in Skyrim. Who would like to open the negotiations?"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"Yes, let's get down to it. We want control of Markarth. That's our price for agreeing to a truce."Jarl Elisif the Fair:"So that's why you're here, Ulfric? You dare to insult the Greybeards by using this council to advance your own position?"Tullius:"Jarl Elisif, I'll handle this."Jarl Elisif the Fair:"General, this is outrageous! You can't be taking this demand seriously! I thought we were here to discuss a truce!"Tullius:"Elisif! I said I'd handle it. Ulfric, you can't seriously expect us to give up Markarth at the negotiating table. You hope to gain in council what you've been unable to take in battle, is that it?"Arngeir:"I'm sure Jarl Ulfric does not expect something for nothing."Legate Rikke:"Yes, that'd be entirely out of character."Arngeir:"What would the Empire want in return?"Jarl Elisif the Fair:"Wait. General, you don't intend to just hand over Markarth to that... traitor!"Jarl Balgruuf the Greater:"This is how the Empire repays us for our loyalty?"Tullius:"Enough! First, let's be clear. This council wasn't my idea. I think it's a waste of time. You are a traitor to the Empire, and deserve a traitor's death. But I at least will negotiate in good faith."
After choosing Riften as compensation for Markarth:
Tullius:"You heard the man, Ulfric. We've made you a fair offer. Are you serious about these talks, or are you just here to posture?"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"I expected more from you Dragonborn. I came here in good faith, and now it seems you help the Empire at every turn. As for you, General Tullius, I see now that Galmar was right. Talking to the Empire is just as useless as ever. If you think you can hold Markarth, you're as deluded as your Emperor when he signed away our freedom to the Thalmor. Skyrim will never again bow to your false Empire! Let's go Galmar. I should have listened to you in the first place."Tullius:"You always were a fool, Ulfric. You're no better at diplomacy than you are on the battlefield."Esbern:"Stop! Are you so blind to our danger that you can't see past your petty disagreements? Here you sit arguing about... nothing! While the fate of the land hangs in the balance!"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"Is he with you, Delphine? If so, I advise you to tell him to watch his tongue."Delphine:"He is with me. And I advise you both to listen to what he has to say, before you do anything rash."Esbern:"Don't you understand the danger? Don't you understand what the return of the dragons means? Alduin has returned! The World-Eater! Even now, he devours the souls of your fallen comrades! He grows more powerful with every soldier slain in your pointless war! Can you not put aside your hatred for even one moment in the face of this mortal danger?"Elenwen:"A very pretty speech, but what does it have to do with..."Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"Shut up. If he's right about Alduin... we both have just as much to lose here, Tullius, remember that. Now, back to the matter at hand. Don't hand me a mug of sheep's piss and call it mead. These terms are still not acceptable."Tullius:"I'm sure you have something in mind."Galmar:"Damn right we do."Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"You surrender Falkreath to us. Siddgeir steps down, and Dengeir of Stuhn resumes the Jarlship."Tullius:"Where do these demands stop, Ulfric? Do you expect me to surrender all of Skyrim? Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"It seems I have no other choice but to let the Dragonborn decide. Although I'm starting to doubt your fairness."
After stating the Empire doesn't need to give up more territory:
Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"These terms are not acceptable. You know that."Tullius:"I'm listening."Galmar:"Don't play dumb, Tullius!"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"Bah! This is a waste of time. I can see that we won't get better terms from this council. So be it. The sons of Skyrim at least put the greater good above our own interests."Arngeir:"It seems we may have an agreement. Jarl Ulfric... General Tullius... These are the terms currently on the table. Markarth will be handed over to Ulfric's forces. Jarl Igmund will step down, and Thongvor Silver-Blood will become the Jarl of Markarth. The Stormcloaks will withdraw from the Rift, allowing Imperial troops unhindered access. Jarl Laila Law-Giver will step down, and Maven Black-Briar will become the Jarl of Riften. You both agree to this?"Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"I shouldn't agree to terms that so blatantly favor the Empire. I have no choice, though, under the circumstances. But once Alduin is defeated - then it will be the Empire's turn. Remember - "Evgir Unslaad." You should be pleased, Elisif. You've done well for yourself as the Empire's pet Jarl. But beware - the Empire's loyalty is fickle. They will tire of this war, and then I will be the one dictating terms to you."Jarl Elisif the Fair:"I have nothing to say to that murderer. General, you've proven yourself a good friend to Skyrim. I continue to trust that you will do your utmost to safeguard our interests."Tullius:"Thank you, Jarl Elisif. I appreciate your loyalty. The Empire can live with these terms, yes. For a temporary truce, until the dragon menace is dealt with. After that, Ulfric... there will be a reckoning. Count on it."Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak:"Come on Galmar. We have a lot of work to do."Jarl Balgruuf the Greater:"Giving up Markarth is a heavy price for this truce, Dragonborn. I hope it was worth it."
Season Unending (Aftermath)[]
Arngeir:"Jarl Balgruuf, I assume you are familiar with the Dragonborn's plan?"Jarl Balgruuf the Greater:"Yes, I'm ready to do my part. Just say the word, and my men will help you spring this trap."Arngeir:"But the difficulty remains - how to lure a dragon to Dragonsreach at all?"Tullius:"Well that's an excellent question. You haven't overlooked that little detail, have you?"Esbern:"Ah. I believe I can be of help here."
After a small conversation with Esbern:
Legate Rikke:"I'd give a week's pay to see the look on Ulfric's face again, when he had to swallow the terms of the truce."
Quotes[]
"Sky above, voice within."
"Wind guide you."
"Breath and focus."
"Your training proceeds well, Dragonborn."
Trivia[]
Unlike the other Greybeards, Arngeir has only seven dragon shouts.
If Paarthurnax is killed by the Dragonborn, Arngeir will refuse to talk to them, showing anger at the murder of his master.
Using the GetLevelconsole command, Arngeir's level is revealed to be 150, making him the highest static level NPC in the game.
If console commands are used to make him a follower, he will shout very rarely, and mainly shoot arrows at opponents with a hunting bow.
If the Dragonborn accesses High Horthgar before "The Way of the Voice", he will have special dialogue.confirmation needed
Bugs[]
This section contains bugs related to Arngeir. Before adding a bug to this list, consider the following:
Please reload an old save to confirm if the bug is still happening.
If the bug is still occurring, please post the bug report with the appropriate system template 360 / XB1 , PS3 / PS4 , PC / MAC , NX / PS5 , XS , depending on which platform(s) the bug has been encountered on.
Be descriptive when listing the bug and fixes, but avoid having conversations in the description and/or using first-person anecdotes: such discussions belong on the appropriate forum board.
PC 360 PS3 If he gives the Dragonborn the quest to find the word of power at Arcwind Point (when Dawnguard has been installed), due to a bug, it may not be possible to complete the quest (see the Arcwind Point article for more details). This will prevent him from giving any further "Find the word of Power" quests unless the quest is somehow completed.
PC (Fix) Entering the console command SetStage FreeFormHighHrothgarA 20 will fix this by marking the quest as "completed." However, Arngeir may ask the Dragonborn to go to Arcwind Point again, so the command will have to be entered each time he assigns the location.
PC 360 PS3 Arngeir may get stuck on the same dialog line or he may be stuck saying "Dovahkiin."
360 During the quest "Season Unending," if you cast "Raise Zombie" at his head, he will become a pile of ashes.
PC If the Dragonborn discovers the Throat of the World before initiating the "Speak to Arngeir" during the quest, "The Way of the Voice," it may become impossible to complete this task.
PC (Fix) Fast travel to another location. When reentering the temple, the quest will proceed as usual.
