Mirabelle Ervine

Mirabelle Ervine is a Breton mage and the Master Wizard of the College of Winterhold. She is the author of the note Per Your Requests.

Background[]

Serving as Master Wizard, she is in charge of the day-to-day operations of the college, as the Arch-Mage's duties often keep him occupied. Among these duties, she greets all new apprentices to the College, giving them complementary robes, showing them their sleeping quarters, and giving them a tour of the entire college, minus the Hall of Countenance.

Mirabelle is not close to a lot of people other than Savos Aren, the Arch-Mage, but she is respected for the most part by her fellow College members. She is a stern woman and spends most of her time reading in the courtyard.

Equipment[]

Interactions[]

Joining the College[]

When Faralda lets the Dragonborn across the bridge, they will meet Mirabelle, where she is in conversation with Ancano, a Thalmor operative sent to serve as an advisor to the Arch-Mage. After their discussion is over, she can be talked to receive a Novice Hood and Novice Robes of Destruction and a tour of the exterior of the College.

Revealing the Unseen[]

When asked about the Staff of Magnus, she replies that the Synod was at the College recently, looking for magical artifacts, and were under the impression "that we had it in a closet somewhere," and she tells the Dragonborn that the Synod went to Mzulft, if they want to look for them.

Containment[]

After Ancano kills Savos Aren, Mirabelle sends the Dragonborn out to look for him, as well as destroy the magic anomalies that have infested Winterhold.

The Staff of Magnus[]

Following "Containment," and reporting to her that the Staff of Magnus is in Labyrinthian, Mirabelle will give the Dragonborn the door knocker needed to enter Labyrinthian, as well as Savos' amulet.

When the Dragonborn returns from Labyrinthian with the Staff in hand, they can ask where Mirabelle is, and Tolfdir will reply that she sacrificed herself to get the others to safety, and out of Ancano's reach. Afterward, Tolfdir replaces Mirabelle as Master Wizard.

Dialogue[]

"Please don't bother the Arch-Mage unless it's absolutely necessary."

What's expected of me here? "There are no expectations. This College is a place to study and practice magic freely. Hopefully any discoveries made in your pursuits will be shared with the members of the College first. That way we all benefit."

Where can I learn new spells? "Well, that depends on what you're looking for. Faralda can teach Destruction spells, and offers training in that school. Phinis is one of the best Conjurers in all of Skyrim, and can help with spells from that school. Don't let Tolfdir fool you; he's the pre-eminent scholar on Alteration. One of the best in Tamriel, and always willing to pass on his knowledge. If you can find him and focus his attention, there's a great deal Drevis can teach you about illusion magic. And finally, there's Colette. She may be... difficult to get along with, she's very knowledgeable when it comes to Restoration magic."

Show: First Lessons
At the College of Winterhold: "Welcome to the College." I was told to come see you. "Another new student... I'm surprised at how many of you there are lately. Well, first you'll need these. While you're not required to wear them, you may find them more to your liking than your current clothes. I'll give you a brief tour, and then we'll get you to your first class. Are you ready to begin?" I'd love to have a look around. "Wonderful. Please follow me, and don't wander off." Sorry, I'm not ready for that just yet. "I see. Well, please let me know when you are." If approached again: You said something about a tour? "Yes, just a brief overview of our facilities. Are you ready?" I'd love to have a look around. "Wonderful. Please follow me, and don't wander off." Sorry, I'm not ready for that just yet. "I see. Well, please let me know when you are." The tour: "The College of Winterhold has been as fixture in Skyrim for thousands of years. The prominent feature is the Hall of the Elements. It's our primary location for lectures, practice sessions, and general meetings. The Arcanaeum is located above the Hall, and the Arch-Mage's quarters above that. While technically in charge of the College, the Arch-Mage's duties often keep him occupied. Thus, I run the day-to-day operations. Now, if you'll please follow me, I'll show you the living quarters. "Unfortunately, we've had to implement more stringent entry procedures, due to some problems with the local Nords. We don't anticipate any real violence, but it never hurts to be prepared. Our newest members are housed here in the Hall of Attainment. I'll ask that you keep your voice down while inside, as others may be working on research or...delicate experiments. "Now I'll show you to your quarters. You're going to be sharing space with your fellow Apprentices, who you'll meet shortly. This bed and desk are yours. Please try and be considerate of others. Now, let's go back to the Hall of the Elements, where most of the members gather for lectures and study sessions. Initially, you'll be learning from Tolfdir, one of our most esteemed wizards. Tolfdir is likely already inside, go on in."

Show: Good Intentions
At the College of Winterhold: "Please don't bother the Arch-Mage unlesss it's absolutely necessary." What do you know about the Psijic Order? "No more than anyone else, I don't think. They're a very old order. Pre-dated the Imperial Mages Guild by quite a bit. In fact, the Mages Guild was founded in opposition to the idea of the Psijic Order, that only an elite few should have control over magic. No one has seen or heard from them in over a hundred years now, though."

Show: Revealing the Unseen
At the College of Winterhold: "Day-to-day operations are my responsibility, which means if you become a problem, you get sent to me." Do you know anything about the Staff of Magnus? "Well now that's an odd question. Why in the world would you be asking?" Arch-Mage Aren said you'd mentioned it recently. "I see. Well yes, I suppose I did mention it, though I'm not sure what he expects me to tell you. I only brought it to his attention a few months back when the Synod showed up here looking for it. They were apparently under the impression we were keeping it in a closet somewhere." Who are the Synod? "Mages based out of Cyrodiil. They fancy themselves the Imperial Authority on magic these last few hundred years. My understanding is that all they really do is make noise in an attempt to curry favor from the Emperor. Lots of politics, little magic. I was quite surprised to find them on our doorstep. They seemed amiable enough, but their line of questioning made me... uneasy. It became clear they're trying to hoard powerful artifacts, looking to consolidate power." So no one knows the Staff's location? "No one here does. The Synod seemed convinced it was somewhere in Skyrim. They inquired about the ruins of Mzulft, but that's all I remember. It sounded like they were heading there, though they were rather secretive about why. I suppose if you're intent on looking for the staff, there's a chance they might be in Mzulft yet. Just don't expect them to be cooperative." It may be connected to the Eye of Magnus. "The "Eye of Magnus"? I can appreciate that this... thing, this orb... It's very impressive. Very unique, and definitely worth studying. But let's not jump to any conclusions, or assign it importance beyond what we're certain of." The Augur referred to it as the Eye of Magnus, not me. "The Augur? Just what have you gotten yourself involved in? Whatever is going on, whatever you're up to... Be very careful." Sorry. So, the Staff of Magnus? "Well, it's said to be very powerful. Has the capacity to store an incredible amount of magical power, as the story goes. But it's more myth than anything at this point. I've no doubt that it actually exists, but no one has seen it in what, decades? Longer? I'm not sure. The only time I've heard it mentioned was when those Synod characters showed up some months ago looking for it." Who are the Synod? "Mages based out of Cyrodiil. They fancy themselves the Imperial Authority on magic these last few hundred years. My understanding is that all they really do is make noise in an attempt to curry favor from the Emperor. Lots of politics, little magic. I was quite surprised to find them on our doorstep. They seemed amiable enough, but their line of questioning made me... uneasy. It became clear they're trying to hoard powerful artifacts, looking to consolidate power." So no one knows the Staff's location? "No one here does. The Synod seemed convinced it was somewhere in Skyrim. They inquired about the ruins of Mzulft, but that's all I remember. It sounded like they were heading there, though they were rather secretive about why. I suppose if you're intent on looking for the staff, there's a chance they might be in Mzulft yet. Just don't expect them to be cooperative." If approached again: "Have you managed to track down the Synod, or the Staff of Magnus?" What else can you tell me about the Staff of Magnus? "I'm not really sure. Made and used by Magnus himself, if you believe those sorts of things. I believe I've heard it said that it's the only thing that could adequately contain his power. The sort of embellishment wizards of ancient times loved to make."

Show: Containment
At the College of Winterhold: "Are you all right? Can you walk? I need you on your feet. We're in trouble here." I think I'm okay. "Ancano is doing something with that thing... the Eye. We can't stop him! I haven't seen Savos since the explosion. He must've been blown clear, and he may be injured. I need you to find the Arch-Mage, and I need you to do it quickly. Get moving!" What happened? "I'll be fine. I just need a minute to catch my breath. Find Savos..." After securing Winterhold: "Well? Is everything out there all right?" Winterhold is safe for now. "Wish I could say the same for us. Tolfdir and I can try and keep this contained. You need to get your hands on the Staff of Magnus. Now." Why me? "I've got to stay here, to see if we can get to Ancano and stop this. I need someone I can trust to do it. Besides, you're the one having all these visions, aren't you?" You really think the Staff will help? "You were told to find it, weren't you? If the stories about the staff are true, if it can really absorb a tremendous amount of power, maybe we can break through Ancano's magic." Then I'm off to Labyrinthian. "What? Are you... Are you sure? The staff is there? That can't be a coincidence." What are you talking about? "The Arch-Mage. He... He gave me something just a little while ago." I don't understand. What coincidence? "Savos. Before... before he died. He... He gave me something just a little while ago." "He told me it was from Labyrinthian, and that I would know what to do with it when the time came. I think... I think he meant this for you, then. I'm not sure why, but there was something very personal about it for him. Also, I think you should take this amulet. It belonged to Savos, but I think would do you the most good now. Take it, and get out of here. Bring back that Staff before Ancano brings the whole College down around us." If approached again: "If we can't stop this, what happens to the rest of Skyrim?"

Conversations[]

Ancano[]

Mirabelle "I believe I made myself rather clear." Ancano "Yes, of course. I'm simply trying to understand the reasoning behind the decision." Mirabelle "You may be used to the Empire bowing to your every whim, but you will find the Thalmor will find no such treatment here. You are here at the pleasure of the Arch-Mage. I hope you appreciate the opportunity." Ancano "Yes, of course. The Arch-Mage has my thanks." Mirabelle "Very good. Then we're done here."

Mirabelle: "I've had yet another complaint. Please stop barging in on experiments in progress." Ancano: "My dear, I am merely observing the proceedings." Mirabelle: "Well then 'observe' from a greater distance. You're making people uncomfortable."

Savos Aren[]

Mirabelle: "I continue to hear things about dragon sightings in Skyrim." Savos: "Dragons? Well, that's fascinating. We should have someone look into that." Mirabelle: "Would you like me to send someone? Faralda or Phinis, perhaps?" Savos: "I'll think about it."

Mirabelle: "Arch-Mage, the Synod have contacted us again, asking if we've any word on their researchers." Savos: "What did you tell them last time?" Mirabelle: "That they had arrived, asked for information which was provided to them, and went on their way with no suggestion of further interaction." Savos: "That hasn't changed, has it? Then just tell them again." Mirabelle: "Should we consider investigating the matter?" Savos: "No, I don't think so. Respond to their request, and we'll leave it at that." Mirabelle: "Yes, Arch-Mage. Thank you."

Savos: "Is there anything new I should be aware of, Mirabelle?" Mirabelle: "I'm dealing with a few new research proposals, evaluating the results of three long-term projects, and keeping an eye on our new Apprentices. There were also two items requiring disciplinary action recently." Savos: "Everything's under control, then? Right. Keep up the good work." Mirabelle: "Yes, thank you Arch-Mage."

Mirabelle: "Sir, the Imperial Legion has again requested assistance. What shall I tell them?"
Savos: "The same thing we've told them before, and the same thing we've told these Stormcloaks. It's not our concern." Mirabelle: "Forgive me, but at what point does it become our concern?" Savos: "Never. The College cannot become mired in local politics. What happens inside these walls is our worry. What happens outside is theirs."

Savos: "Mirabelle, would you please make sure my schedule is clear for the next few days? I'm working on something important." Mirabelle: "Your schedule is always clear, Arch-Mage. I see to that." Savos: "Ah, yes. True. Well, thank you."

Mirabelle: "Its like a ward, but who's casting it? Ancano? How?" Savos: "I don't care what it is. I want it down, now! I want to know what he's doing in there!"
[interval of bringing down ward]
Savos: "Ancano! Stop this at once! I command you!" [Savos approaches Ancano]
Mirabelle: "Don't go near him!" [Energy explosion]

Quests[]

Quotes[]

"Please don't bother the Arch-Mage unless it's absolutely necessary."
"If there are problems, let me know. It's my job to keep things running smoothly."
"Day-to-day operations are my responsibility, which means if you become a problem, you get sent to me."
"Mine is not a popular position, but someone needs to keep things running smoothly around here."

Trivia[]

She is voiced by Mozhan Marnò.
Despite the fact that she is Master Wizard, she only wears Apprentice robes.
Even if wearing expert or master robes when joining the College, Mirabelle still says that the robes she has given the Dragonborn "might be more comfortable than your... current clothes."
Faralda appears to want Mirabelle's position, as she will comment that she does a good job, but there is room for improvement and will show surprise at Tolfdir replacing her.
If Mirabelle is summoned via console commands after "The Eye of Magnus," she will offer new opening dialogue and will even refer to the Dragonborn as Arch-mage, showing that she was originally intended to remain alive.

Bugs[]

This section contains bugs related to Mirabelle Ervine. 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.

PS3 After she dies during "The Staff of Magnus," when the Dragonborn commits a crime in the College, bounty may be added and she may speak, but nothing will be seen. Killing all visible members of the room does not seem to fix this.
360 If a dragon is killed while in the first tour of the College and dies in a close proximity to her, she may stop moving. Using full power Unrelenting Force to move her away from the dragon fixes this.
360 During the "Revealing the unseen" mission, when the Dragonborn approaches Mirabelle about The Staff of Magnus the Dragonborn may not have an option to ask about it.
XB1 When a dragon is killed while doing the first tour, Mirabelle may stop the tour and begin wandering. Entering the Hall of the Elements and talking to Tolfdir completes that part of the quest.

Appearances[]

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim