Skyrim:Neloth

Neloth is a Dark Elf wizard-lord and a Master Wizard of House Telvanni who is generally thought of as a madman. He lives in the main tower of Tel Mithryn with his apprentice, Talvas Fathryon. 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 habit 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   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
Prior to the eruption of   in  , Neloth moved from   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   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   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.

For historical information on Neloth, see the lore article.

 
Related Quests
Dragonborn Main Quest
 
 
Side Quests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Miscellaneous Quests
 

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:


thumbnail|right|"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.

 

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† These spells are cast as part of Neloth's regular schedule in Tel Mithryn.
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Quest-Related Events
Dragonborn
 

thumbnail|right|"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 but I cant 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."
thumbnail|right|"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
right|45px|link=Skyrim:The Path of Knowledge
 

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:


right|150pxAfter 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: "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." The conversation moves towards the Black Books when he admits owning one and knowing the location of another. Asking him where you can find another Black Book will result in the response: "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." When you ask if he has a Black Book, he answers: "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   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." or "I thought you were in a hurry to get to Nchardak." then explains: "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." or "Shall we get on with it?"

City of a Hundred Towers
thumb|right|"The Dwemer certainly knew how to build for the ages. These towers have outlasted their creators by millenia."
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. The book is housed inside that dome. I'll need to unlock the door for us. Lets 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." Asking him where you are both headed, he replies: "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
thumb|right|"There seems to be an inexhaustible supply of these Dwemer contraptions."
Upon entering, Neloth reveals: "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." as he walks down the stairs.

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 sumberged 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
thumb|right|"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: "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." as he observes the Dwarven centurions lining the walls of the chamber.

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: "Look out for that Steam Centurion! Get to higher ground!" as a Dwarven centurion awakens. 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: "There's a passage up there. We could reach it if the water level was higher." if the first cube on the bridge was not collected. 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: "The last cube is somewhere through the northern door. We won't be able to open it until the water level is lower." as he begins to walk down to the Aqueduct to fetch the final cube.

Nchardak Aqueduct
thumb|right|"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: "That seems to have done it. Good. It took longer than I'd hoped, but at least it's finally done." but then cries out "Look out! Another Steam Centurion!" as a Dwarven centurion awakens from its station at the far side of the great chamber bridge. 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
thumbnail|right|"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   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
 
right|thumb|"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." This presents two possible replies:
: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."

Explaining to him that Hermaeus Mora wants the "secrets of the Skaal" in exchange for the third word of Bend Will, he replies: "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
right|45px|link=Skyrim:At the Summit of Apocrypha
 
thumb|"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:


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
 

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
 

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."'' When you tell him you haven't seen Varona, he demands: "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."

thumb|right|"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: "Dead? Well that's annoying. How did she die?" Telling him it looks like an ash spawn attack results in the response: "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."''

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, he remarks: ''"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."

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. Neloth replies: "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
 

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
 
thumbnail|right|"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?" Asking him if he needs any help results in the reply: "I suppose that depends. Are you willing to be an experimental subject?" You can then ask what kind of experiment he wants to do on you, and he will explain: "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: "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
 

right|100pxFollowing his study into the ash from Red Mountain, Neloth explains that he requires a heart stone when asked if he needs some help: "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."

Asking him where you can find a heart stone, he replies: "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 he replies: "Excellent. I'll take it. Here. Have some septims."

Briarheart Necropsy
 
Upon entering Tel Mithryn after finding him a heart stone, Neloth can be heard yelling "Curse these heart stones!" Asking him if there is a problem, he explains: "I've been having difficulties with my heart stone experiments. Have you heard of the Briarhearts?" Upon prodding him to elaborate, he continues: "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."

right|thumb|"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. If you ask where you can find a Briarheart warrior, he informs you: ''"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." Upon asking what Briarhearts have to do with heart stones, Neloth remarks: "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."''

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, saying: ''"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, he explains: "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
 
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?" This presents the option to either help him or refuse:
:*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:

 
| style="vertical-align: top;"|thumbnail|right|"Master Neloth! What have you done to him? What are those things growing out of his eyes?"
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Eventually, the spell wears off and your sight is restored. After telling Neloth he owes you for that spell, he replies: "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." and rewards you with some gold. 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
 

thumb|right|"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."'' (option only appears if Dragon Rising has not been completed)

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
thumbnail|right|"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?"'' When you tell him it was in Ildari Sarothril's grave, he responds: ''"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." At this point, two dialogue options are presented:
: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.

thumbnail|right|"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."

Asking if he is coming along, he replies: "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." Finally, he parts with: "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." Inform him she is dead and he responds: "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."

Asking him what it means to be a member of his house, he remarks: "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
 
In a break from his research into ash and heart stones, Neloth makes a more personal request when asked if he needs any help: "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."

After giving the location of the staff he has located, he can be questioned further about Azra Nightwielder. He explains: "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 and informing Neloth of your success, he replies: "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
 

thumbnail|right|"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 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."

Upon recovering the book and returning to Tel Mithryn, Neloth impatiently asks: "So? Do you have it? Did you get my book?" After giving it to Neloth and telling him the book was right where he said it would be, he begins reading it and remarks: "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:
 


Dialogue
Additional Topics
Tel Mithryn Meeting
right|thumb|Skyrim:Tel Mithryn (tower)|Tel MithrynAfter 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. You may ask him what about the building, and he explains: "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." Two possible replies are then presented, both of which result in him boasting about his house:
:*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:


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." Asking him where everyone in Tel Mithryn went, he explains: "They are off working on their pillar. Happens every night." 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: "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." revealing his greed for power and showing that despite the inconvenience he is awestruck at the thought of wielding such authority.

thumb|right|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. He informs you: "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
thumb|right|"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   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.


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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.

 
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Other Dialogue
Quest Stage Dependent
The following pieces of dialogue can be heard in passing and depend upon on the stage of certain quests.


Combat Dialogue



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Farewells
The following lines can be heard when ending a conversation:

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Reactions


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.
If you start either of his quests and make him wait long enough, it's possible he will follow you into Skyrim. 
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.