Skyrim Guards

The Guards of Skyrim appear as the law enforcement of , essentially replacing the Ordinators of and the City Watch of .
==Skyrim==
Every hold in Skyrim has its own guards. These guards protect the capital cities of each hold, and any other settlements within. All hold guards wear similar armor sets; the only differences being the color of the sash, and material of the undershirt, either scaled or quilted.
They also wear the same type of helmet, though the colours vary, depending on the hold. Hold guards carry a round wooden shield, which varies in color and typically displays the symbol of the hold across the front.
Weapons carried by the hold guards vary depending on which hold they belong to. All Imperial-controlled holds, save for The Reach, have their guards armed with Imperial Swords and Imperial Bows. Reach hold guards vary in wielding one-handed iron or steel weapons, but still use Imperial bows like their counterparts in the other Imperial-controlled holds.
However, some Reach hold guards, such as those that patrol the Dwemer Museum, are armed with Imperial swords like their counterparts in Haafingar, Hjaalmarch, Whiterun, and Falkreath, and the Whiterun hold guard that normally guards the front gate of Whiterun is seen wielding a one or two-handed iron or steel weapon instead of an Imperial sword himself.
Hold guards in Stormcloak-controlled holds wield any one-handed or two-handed iron or steel weapons with hunting bows for their archery weapon, with either a Hide Shield or Steel Shield when engaging in combat instead of their Hold Guard Shields. All hold guards use steel arrows with their bows.
Hold guards can be permanently replaced by either Imperial or Stormcloak soldiers during the Civil War, depending on which side the Dragonborn joins. They will perform the same duties and have the same dialogue as regular guards, though they may also have additional faction-based dialogue. The victorious faction will keep their guards. However, those that are not loyal will be replaced.
The guards are led by a captain and local Imperial Legate or Stormcloak Commander who reports to the local Jarl. Their duty is to uphold peace and order throughout the city and the hold, as well as ensuring justice is upheld in the event of a crime. Additionally, they are the last line of defense of their city in the event of assault or invasion.
Only Stormcloak-affiliated Holds have female guards.
==Types==
Image	Hold 	Equipment 	Notes
 	Falkreath 	Indigo guard armor. A leather scaled vest with a chainmail shirt underneath, with fur boots. They carry a round, blue, wooden shield with a painted motif of a stag's head on it. 	During the civil war, the Stormcloaks may replace these guards in Falkreath.
 	Hjaalmarch 	Pale green guard armor. A quilted vest with a chainmail shirt underneath, with fur boots. They carry a round, green and gray wooden shield with a painted spiral motif. 	During the civil war, the Stormcloaks may replace these guards in Morthal.
 	Haafingar 	Red cloth guard armor. A scaled vest with a chainmail shirt underneath. Their helmets are dark brown on the crown, rather than the bronze color that is on every other "guard" helmet in the game. They wear Imperial bracers and Imperial boots instead of fur. They carry a round, red, wooden shield with a painted motif of a wolf. The guards around Castle Dour are Imperial soldiers and wear full Imperial Armor, though they are still named "Solitude Guard".	During the civil war, the Stormcloaks may replace these guards in Solitude.
 	The Reach 	Green cloth guard armor. A quilted vest with a bronze chainmail shirt underneath, with fur gauntlets and boots. They carry a round, green, wooden shield with a painted motif of a stylized ram's head. 	During the civil war, the Stormcloaks may replace these guards in Markarth, yet the one guarding Soljund's Sinkhole will remain a Reach guard.
 	The Pale 	Cream cloth guard armor. A quilted vest with a bronze chainmail shirt underneath, with fur gauntlets and boots. They carry a round, gray, wooden shield with a painted motif of a four-point star. 	During the civil war, the Legion or Stormcloaks may replace these guards in Dawnstar, despite Jarl Skald siding with the Stormcloaks.
 	The Rift 	Purple cloth version of the guard armor. A scaled vest with a bronze chainmail shirt underneath, with fur boots. They carry a round, lavender, wooden shield with a painted motif of two crossed swords. 	During the civil war, the Legion may replace these guards in Riften. Ivarstead and Shor's Stone are a part of The Rift, but their guards are slightly different to other rural guards, and are named "Ivarstead Guard" and "Shor's Stone Guard" respectively. However, the armor, helmet and shield is still Riften armor.
 	Whiterun 	Yellow cloth guard armor. A scaled vest with a chainmail shirt underneath, with fur boots; most wear no gauntlets. They carry a round, yellow, wooden shield with a painted motif of a horse's head. 	Possibly the most well-known guards in Skyrim and the first/closest to often be found in the game. During the civil war, the Stormcloaks may replace these guards in Whiterun. Their commander, Caius, will be removed from his post and replaced with Sinmir. The detachment of guards that was sent to Riverwood during "Dragon Rising" will remain, unless "Battle for Whiterun" is completed beforehand.
 	Winterhold 	White cloth version of the guard armor. A scaled vest with a chainmail shirt underneath, with fur boots. The round, wooden shield sports a painted motif of a crown. 	During the civil war, the Legion may replace these guards in Winterhold. Only two guards patrol Winterhold at any one time, while a third is in the Jarl's Longhouse. Only one additional guard can be found elsewhere in the hold at the Whistling Mine, located south-east of Winterhold proper. This guard holds the only Winterhold guard shield.
 	Eastmarch 	Stormcloak Cuirass and Stormcloak Helmet. A quilted vest with a chainmail shirt underneath, with fur gauntlets and boots. They carry a round, blue, wooden shield with a painted motif of a bear's head. 	They are Stormcloak soldiers and share their speech options. During the civil war, the Legion may replace these guards in Windhelm.
 	Stormcloaks	Identical apparel to Eastmarch guards. This is only prevalent in Eastmarch, as the guards posted at other holds can wield hide/iron/steel shields or use two-handed weapons. 	These guards patrol holds and hold capitals that were previously allied to the Empire. They are Stormcloak soldiers and share their speech options. They only appear as guards outside of Eastmarch if the Dragonborn sided with the Stormcloaks during the civil war, or achieved a peace treaty in "Season Unending" in which Holds are exchanged.
 	Legion 	Full Imperial light armor; the only guards who wear completely different armor than other guards. They carry an Imperial shield, which is standard for all Imperial soldiers. 	These guards patrol holds and hold capitals that were previously allied to the Stormcloaks. They are Imperial soldiers and share their speech options. They only appear if the Dragonborn sided with the Empire during the civil war, or achieved a peace treaty in "Season Unending" in which Holds are exchanged.
==Quotes==
===Skills===
Quote 	Skill
"Lightly armored means light on your feet. Smart." 	Light Armor
"Best offense is a good defense, am I right?" 	Heavy Armor
"You're like me, eh? Don't fancy those clunky two-handed weapons." 	One-Handed
"The gods gave you two hands, and you use them both for your weapon. I can respect that."	Two-Handed
"Keep your arrows in their quiver, archer." 	Archery (low)
"Favor the bow, eh? I'm a sword man, myself." 	Archery (high)
"Hands to yourself, sneak thief." 	Sneak (low)
"I know your kind, always sneaking about." 	Sneak (high)
"Don't think you can barter with me like I'm one of those damned shopkeepers." 	Speech (low)
"Heard about you and your honeyed words..." 	Speech (high)
"Fancy yourself an alchemist, hmm? Never could get the hang of that." 	Alchemy (low)
"Hey, you mix potions, right? Can you brew me an ale?" 	Alchemy (high)
"So you can cast a few spells. Am I supposed to be impressed?" 	Destruction (low)
"Destruction magic's fine, just don't go burning down any buildings." 	Destruction (high)
"Hail, summoner. Conjure me up a warm bed, would you?" 	Conjuration
"You're the one casts those illusions. Impressive." 	Illusion
"I've got a lot of respect for the Restoration School. Skyrim could use more healers." 	Restoration
"Don't suppose you'd enchant my sword? Dull old blade can barely cut butter." 	Enchanting
"I find your hand in my pocket, I'm going to cut it off." 	Pickpocket
"Go fiddling with any locks around here, we're going to have a real problem." 	Lockpick
===Gear===
Quote 	Armour
"Some advice, friend. That armor won't offer much protection in a real fight." 	Hide
"You wear the armor of a briggan. Best not couse any trouble on my watch." 	Studded
"Fancy the leather armor, huh? Something to be said for going light." 	Leather
"That's fine scale armor you've got on there. Shiny." 	Scaled
"Hah. You wear that armor well. Iron may be simple, but it'll stop enough to keep you in the fight." 	Iron
"That's good armor you've got there, friend. Iron. Solid and true." 	Iron
"You wear the armor of a mercenary. Now that's the life." 	Banded
"Aye, now that's some fine armor. Good old-fashioned steel." 	Steel
"Ah, steel plate. Now that's a solid choice of armor." 	Plate
"You wear the garb of a true Nord. I salute you." 	Wolf
"Ugh. That armor stinks of death. You been grave robbing?" 	Nord
"Orcish armor, hmm? Had me a set of that once. Ugly and strong, like those that forged it." 	Orcish
"Fine armor you've got there. Dwarven make, am I right?" 	Dwarven
"Ebony armor. By Ysmir, 'tis a wondrous sight." 	Ebony
"Is your armor made of... dragon scales/bones? By the gods, what I wouldn't do for a set of that." 	Dragon
"I know Thieves Guild armor when I see it. You're not fooling anyone." 	Thieves
"Try to hide it all you want. I know you're in the Thieves Guild... and so do the other guards." 	Thieves
"You come talking to me wearing Imperial armor? You got stew for brains?" 	Imperial
"For your sake, I hope your took that armor from a dead Imperial scout..." 	Imperial
"Judging by your armor, I'd say you're an Imperial scout. If so, well met." 	Imperial
"That's some fine Imperial armor you've got there." 	Imperial
"You dare strut around here, wearing that filthy Stormcloak hide?" 	Stormcloak
"That Stormcloak armor's getting on my nerves..." 	Stormcloak
"You wear that Stormcloak armor well, friend." 	Stormcloak
"You wear the armor of the bear, my friend. A fine choice." 	Stormcloak
Quote 	Weapon
"Takes a fair bit of strength to carry a greatsword like that. But can you use it?" 	Greatsword
"Iron sword, huh? What are you killing, butterflies?" 	Iron Sword
"That iron sword's pretty undependable. You should try steel." 	Iron Sword
"Pigsticker like that's not going to get you far. Best visit the blacksmith." 	Iron Sword
"Favor a steel sword, do ya? Good choice for slashing or stabbing." 	Steel Sword
"Why the Elven blade, hmm? Nord steel not good enough for you?" 	Elven Sword
"Aye, now that there's a beautiful sword. Like a sliver of midnight." 	Ebony Sword
*Gasp* "You wield... Azura's Star? How... how can such a thing be possible?" 	Azura's Star
"By Shor, is that... is that Azura's Star? How did you come to possess such a rare treasure?" 	Black Star
"Who did you have to kill to get that blade?" 	Mehrunes' Razor
"'Tis a wicked axe you wield there, friend. That blade looks sharp enough to cut through a god." 	Rueful Axe
"Ah, Aegisbane. Sigil of Clan Shatter-Shield. But didn't that get stolen awhile back? Hmph. Must be rememberin' wrong." 	Aegisbane
"That hammer... Why that's Aegisbane, heirloom of Clan Shatter-Shield! Last I heard, it was stolen by a couple of swindlers. Alain and... Muiri. Yeah."	Aegisbane
"That mace... get it away from me. Get it away..." 	Mace of Molag Bal
"No... get that accursed mace away from me..." 	Mace of Molag Bal
*Whistles* "That is one... big hammer." 	Volendrung
"What do you aim to do with that hammer, my friend? Knock down a house?" 	Volendrung
"What manner of staff is that? Such a horror..." 	Skull of Corruption
"What a foul and unnatural weapon you wield. Never have I seen its like." 	Skull of Corruption
"Ah, now that's a fine shield. And not mere Dwarven... is it?" 	Spellbreaker
"Your shield. Dwarf make, is it not? Yet it seems so much... more." 	Spellbreaker
"Ugh. Your breath is foul. What've you been eating?" 	Ring of Namira
===Quests===
Quote 	Guard 	Event
"Helgen... destroyed by a dragon. Hard to believe, isn't it?" 	Any 	After "Unbound"
"By the gods! It... it can't be!" 	Whiterun 	You killed a dragon
"With Irileth, you either come back covered with glory or not at all." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"I'm glad you're coming with us. They say Talos favors you." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"We'd better keep moving." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"We'd better keep moving. Who knows what that dragon is doing." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"I hope the tower holds out until we get there." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"That dragon should have stuck with killing Imperials. Now he's gonna learn how real Nords fight." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"My cousin's stationed at the watchtower. I hope he's alright." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Shor's Bones. Did it kill them all...?" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"This doesn't look good." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"We'd better find out what's happened." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Talos save us! It's a dragon!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You really think we can kill a dragon?" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"I can't get a beat on him." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Stay under cover!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You're going to pay!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Fall to me, dragon!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Does anyone see him?" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Don't just stand there! Kill him!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You don't stand a chance!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"We don't stand a chance!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You're already dead." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Take him down! It's our best chance!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You'll die this day, dragon!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Well, well. Another maggot to squash underneath my boots." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You're outmatched!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"Look at that!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"I can't believe it. You're... Dragonborn..." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"I'm glad you're on our side." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"I'm proud to be your battle-brother, Dragonborn. Whiterun doesn't need to fear with you on our side." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"We taught that dragon not to mess with Whiterun, didn't we?" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"I can't believe we actually killed a dragon!" 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You sure took care of that dragon. Dragonborn or not, that's good enough for me." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"The guards in Dragonsreach say you've aided the Jarl. On behalf of Whiterun, I thank you." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You have the Jarl's confidence, friend. And so you have mine." 	Whiterun 	During "Dragon Rising"
"You couldn't possibly be the Dragonborn of legend. Could you?" 	Any 	After "Dragon Rising"
"If those Whiterun guards can take down a dragon, so can we." 	Non-Whiterun	After "Dragon Rising"
"Got to thinking, maybe I'm the Dragonborn, and I just don't know it yet." 	Any 	After "The Way of the Voice"
"I caught a glimpse of that captured dragon. It's.. beautiful. In its own way." 	Whiterun 	During "The Fallen"
"Releasing a captured dragon. I don't think I'll ever understand that one..." 	Whiterun 	After "The Fallen"
"For a dragon to attack Kynesgrove... Why? Why there? Is no place safe?" 	Any 	After "A Blade in the Dark"
"Word is Elenwen's furious. Big party at the Thalmor Embassy, and one of the guests went someplace they shouldn't. Caused quite a commotion." 	Any 	After "Diplomatic Immunity"
"There was a fight down in the Ratway, but reports are... sketchy. Some say it was Thalmor Agents, others say Thieves Guild. Some say it was both."	Riften 	After "A Cornered Rat"
"Yes, Dovahkiin? How can I help you?" 	Any 	After "Dragonslayer"
"Whatever you need, Dragonborn. Just say the word." 	Any 	After "Dragonslayer"
"You have vanquished a great evil from Skyrim. You have saved this land... and our very souls." 	Any 	After "Dragonslayer"
"No matter what else happens, the guards will always be grateful for everything you've done." 	Any 	After "Dragonslayer"
"You ask me, those brats in the orphanage are better off, now that old Grelod is dead." 	Riften 	After "Innocence Lost"
"That old woman who runs the orphanage has been murdered. Say, didn't I see you coming out of there...?" 	Riften 	After "Innocence Lost"
"You know, I could have gone into that Sanctuary. Killed all those Dark Brotherhood types. But I was... sick that day." 	Any 	After "Destroy the Dark Brotherhood!"
"You... You destroyed the Dark Brotherhood. Friend, I owe you a drink." 	Any 	After "Destroy the Dark Brotherhood!"
"Psst. Hey, I know who you are. Hail Sithis." 	Any 	After "With Friends Like These..."
"It ain't true what they say about you and... and the Dark Brotherhood? Is it?" 	Any 	After "With Friends Like These..."
"Now, I know who you are. And... and I know your business... Just, please... These are good folk we got here. Mostly..." 	Any 	After "With Friends Like These..."
"The Emperor of Skyrim. Dead. These are dark times, my friend. Dark times, indeed..." 	Any 	After "Hail Sithis!"
"You're that one from the College. Heard about you." 	Any 	After "Elder Knowledge"
"What business do College mages have in a place like Saarthal, anyway? It's a place for Nord dead... not your weird experiments." 	Winterhold 	After "Under Saarthal"
"One of the guards said he saw a mage appear out of thin air. Claimed it was one of those Psijic Monks. Man's been hitting the skooma, I say." 	Winterhold 	After "Under Saarthal"
"Imagine, blowing up an entire town. Damn College... Winterhold will never be the same." 	Winterhold 	After "Containment"
===General===
Quote 	Guard 	Condition
"Bit late to be wandering around, isn't it?" 	Any 	Out at night
"I fear the night. Because the werewolves and vampires don't." 	Any 	Out at night
"You hear that? I swear, there's something out there. In the dark." 	Any 	Out at night
"Only burglars and vampires creep around after dark. So, which are you?" 	Any 	Out at night
"Just a few more hours and I can crawl under some furs..." 	Any 	Out at 12-4 am
"You look tired, friend. The (local tavern) has beds for rent." 	Any 	Haven't slept
"Gonna get cold tonight. Might want to at least cover your delicates." 	Any 	You're naked
"Woah, woah, woah! Watch the magic!" 	Any 	Charged a spell
"Go cast your fancy magic some place else." 	Any 	Wielding magic
"Guard might get nervous, a man/woman approaches with his/her weapon drawn..." 	Any 	Weapon drawn
"You come up to me, fists raised? You looking for a beating?" 	Any 	Fists raised
"Sheathe those claws, Khajiit..." 	Any 	Claws raised
"What is it, Khajiit/Argonian/Imperial/Redguard/Orc/Elf?" 	Any 	Races
"Stay out of trouble, Khajiit/Argonian/Imperial/Redguard/Orc/Elf." 	Any 	Races
"What do you want... cat?" 	Any 	Khajiit
"Stay out of trouble, lizard." 	Any 	Argonian
"Don't cross me, Elf." 	Any 	Mer
"How can I help a brother/sister Nord?" 	Any 	Nord
"Staying out of trouble, kinsman?" 	Any 	Nord
"Stay out of trouble, Nord." 	Any 	Nord
"How do you do, thane?" 	Any 	Thane
"I trust the day's found you well, thane." 	Any 	Thane
"I hope you're finding the city in proper order, thane." 	Any 	Thane
"Hail, Companion." 	Any 	After "Take Up Arms"
"Now I remember - you're that new member of the Companions. So you, what - fetch the mead?" 	Any 	After "Take Up Arms"
"If it isn't the slayer of the Glenmoril Witches. How can I assist you, Companion?" 	Any 	After "Blood's Honor"
"Kodlak White-Mane is in a better place now. For is there any place better than Sovngarde?" 	Any 	After "Blood's Honor"
"Uch. Been tending your hounds? You smell like wet dog." 	Any 	Werewolf
"I'm telling you, I heard it. Howling. Those werewolf tales are true." 	Any 	Werewolf
"I find your wolfish grin... unsettling." 	Any 	Werewolf
"Is that... fur? Coming out of your ears?" 	Any 	Werewolf
"With respect, Companion, I'd ask that you and your friends muzzle that dog of yours. The howling coming from Jorrvaskr has gotten out of hand." 	Any 	Companion Werewolf
"Werewolf!" 	Any 	Combat (Werewolf)
"It's a werewolf! To arms! To arms!" 	Any 	Combat (Werewolf)
"Die, Vampire!" 	Any 	Combat (Vampire Lord)
"Vampire! Burn it!" 	Any 	Combat (Vampire Lord)
"Vampire! To arms!" 	Any 	Combat (Vampire Lord)
"Citizen." 	Any 	General
"Trouble?" 	Any 	General
"No lollygaggin'." 	Any 	General
"What is it? Dragons?" 	Any 	General
"Everything's all right?" 	Any 	General
"Staying safe, I hope?" 	Any 	General
"Watch the skies, traveler." 	Any 	General
"Disrespect the law, and you disrespect me." 	Any 	General
"Let me guess - someone stole your sweetroll..." 	Any 	General
"Fear not. Come dragon or giant, we'll be ready." 	Any 	General
"I'd be a lot warmer and a lot happier with a bellyful of mead..." 	Any 	General
"My cousin is out fighting dragons, and what do I get? Guard duty." 	Any 	General
"I used to be an adventurer like you. Then I took an arrow in the knee...." 	Any 	General
"Gotta keep my eyes open. Damn dragons could swoop down at any time." 	Any 	General
"They say Ulfric Stormcloak murdered the High King... with his voice! Shouted him apart!" 	Any 	General
"I mostly deal with petty thievery and drunken brawls. Been too long since we've had a good bandit raid." 	Any 	General
"I have to wonder... what does the Dragonborn do once he's summoned by the Greybeards? Can the Thu'um be taught, like any skill?" 	Any 	General
"You see those warriors from Hammerfell? They've got curved swords. Curved. Swords." 	Any 	General
"We need to do something about these vampire attacks." 	Any 	Dawnguard
"They say if a vampire so much as scratches you, you'll turn into one. That better not be true." 	Any 	Dawnguard
"Dragons breathing fire in the sky. Vampires brazenly attacking people on the street. It's the end of the world I tell you." 	Any 	Dawnguard
"Heard they're reforming the Dawnguard. Vampire hunters or something, in the old fort near Riften. Might consider joining up myself." 	Any 	Dawnguard
"They say that vampires attacked the Hall of the Vigilant. Burned it to the ground! Never heard of vampires doing anything like that before." 	Any 	Dawnguard
"What do you need, bard?" 	Any 	After "Tending the Flames"
"I hear the East Empire Company has reopened, thanks in no small part to you. Well done. All of Skyrim benefits from their trade. 	Any 	After "Rise in the East"
"Thanks for clearing out that vampire nest. You saved Morthal." 	Morthal 	After "Laid to Rest"
"I grew up hearing songs about Eyldi the Bear! She wrestled a storm out of the sky!" 	Falkreath 	General
"You... you were talking to that murderous savage. And then he escaped. What are you hiding?" 	Falkreath 	After "Ill Met by Moonlight"
"I know you had some part in Sinding's escape. Don't deny it..." 	Falkreath 	Spared Sinding
"Keep clear of the College, and keep yourself out of trouble." 	Winterhold	General
"Hard to believe I ever complained about Riften being cold..." 	Winterhold	General
"Winterhold belongs to Skyrim, not the Imperials, or the Mages." 	Winterhold	General
"Take care if you're venturing too far from town. That's a bitter wind coming off the Sea of Ghosts." 	Winterhold	General
"If you're here for sight-seeing, well then you've seen the sights. Might as well head somewhere warmer." 	Winterhold	General
"You should talk to Rustleif. Get some proper steel." 	Dawnstar 	General
"Dangerous post, Dawnstar. If the bandits don't get you, the animals will." 	Dawnstar 	General
"We won't give up this port to the Imperials without a fight, don't you worry." 	Dawnstar 	General
"Old lady Frida is a grouch, but she sure can whip up a cure for the Rattles fast." 	Dawnstar 	General
"Beware of Frostmere Crypt, friend. Heard some bandits are living in the ruins now." 	Dawnstar 	Giving a location
"Giants have been spotted up near Red Road Pass. Best to keep away and avoid it entirely." 	Dawnstar 	Giving a location
"You've come to Dawnstar at a strange time, friend. Seems everyone in this town is having nightmares..." 	Dawnstar 	Before "Waking Nightmare"
"The people here are still plagued with nightmares. It's... unnatural." 	Dawnstar 	Before "Waking Nightmare"
"No more nightmares. Thank the gods for that." 	Dawnstar 	After "Waking Nightmare"
"Riften's under my protection. You watch yourself, now." 	Riften 	General
"There's fine steel at the Scorched Hammer, if you fancy a new blade." 	Riften 	General
"If it's a bed you need, talk to Keerava in the Bee and Barb. She'll set you right." 	Riften 	General
"City's quiet enough now. But when the sun goes down, you best keep on your guard." 	Riften 	General
"You could say the Ratway is the city under the city. Dark, dangerous, and no place for decent folk." 	Riften 	General
"Need a drink, you go to the Bee and Barb. Stay out of the Ragged Flagon, stay out of the Ratway." 	Riften 	General
"There's an apothecary in town, yeah. But it's down on the lower walkway, so stay sharp if you go down there." 	Riften 	General
"Welcome to Riften, home of the Thieves Guild. Or so they'd have you believe. It's all lies. They're just thugs... vermin, creeping around the Ratway."	Riften 	General
"Best not go wandering east of the city. Bandits been seen around Broken Helm Hollow." 	Riften 	Giving a location
"By the gods, a dragon's been sighted just south of the city, flying around Lost Tongue Overlook." 	Riften 	Giving a location
"Talk of strange happenings at Autumnshade Clearing, just north of the lake. My guess? Spriggans." 	Riften 	Giving a location
"If you journey north, keep well away from Snapleg Cave. Damned Hagravens have infested the place." 	Riften 	Giving a location
"There's a foul presence coming from Darklight Tower, southwest of the city. Some say the place is home to necromancers." 	Riften 	Giving a location
"City got attacked once by those damn bandits, come east across the lake, from Faldar's Tooth. They won't be trying that again." 	Riften 	Giving a location
"Why we bothered to capture Riften I'll never understand. Just look at this place." 	Riften 	Imperial control
"Seems like capturing Riften is turning out to be more of a hassle than a benefit. But what do I know?" 	Riften 	Imperial control
"Now that the Empire's arrived in Riften, we've finally established a launching point into Morrowind... just in case." 	Riften 	Imperial control
"This is Markarth, traveler. Safest city in the Reach." 	Markarth 	General
"Outsiders aren't trusted in Markarth. Best keep that in mind." 	Markarth 	General
"Break the law in Markarth, and it's off to Cidhna Mine with you." 	Markarth 	General
"Can't believe I'm posted here. Even the beds are made of stone." 	Markarth 	General
"Let me guess - you need a drink. It's the Silver-Blood Inn you're looking for." 	Markarth 	General
"You should see that Orc over in Understone Keep, have him forge you some new armor..." 	Markarth 	General
"Ah, Vlindrel Hall's a fine home, if you can afford it. The steward in the keep can tell you more." 	Markarth 	General
"Gods damn those Forsworn. So many dead..." 	Markarth 	General
"There's a small skeever den just east of the city, at Reachwater Rock." 	Markarth 	Giving a location
"The Forsworn have been spotted to the north, near Bruca's Leap Redoubt." 	Markarth 	Giving a location
"Travel southeast and you'll find an Orc stronghold, up around the old Dushnikh orichalcum mine." 	Markarth 	Giving a location
"Lots of nasty holes in the Reach, and Blind Cliff Cave is one of them. A filthy Hagraven nest, northeast of here." 	Markarth 	Giving a location
"Beware the region northeast, across the river. Forsworn have taken refuge in Broken Tower Redoubt and Red Eagle Redoubt." 	Markarth 	Giving a location
"There's an evil to the north, friend, and its name is Ragnvald. A tomb like so many in Skyrim, where the dead have found no peace." 	Markarth 	Giving a location
"The Empire didn't think we could take the Reach, but here we are." 	Markarth 	Stormcloak control
"Halt. You're under arrest for murder and conspiracy against the city of Markarth!" 	Markarth 	During "The Forsworn Conspiracy"
"If you need potions, you should try Arcadia's Cauldron." 	Whiterun 	General
"Need a blade? You should talk to Adrianne, at the forge." 	Whiterun 	General
"Need supplies? See Belethor at his store. Sleazy little man, but he has good stock." 	Whiterun 	General
"Stormcloaks, Imperials, dragons. Ain't no matter to me what I kill. Let them come." 	Whiterun 	General
"Looking to do some hunting? Avoid Brittleshin Pass. It's southeast of here." 	Whiterun 	Giving a location
"Yesterday, I saw a dragon fly right over the city. Headed northeast. Toward Shearpoint, by the looks of it." 	Whiterun 	Giving a location
"The circle of stones to the southwest? That's Secunda's Kiss. The giants hold it sacred, so tread carefully." 	Whiterun 	Giving a location
"Careful if you cross the river to the east. Old Hajvarr Iron-Hand and his brigands are holed up in that cave, White River Watch." 	Whiterun 	Giving a location
"If you're heading east, steer clear of Hillgrund's Tomb. Thing about those old crypts - the dead having trouble staying that way." 	Whiterun 	Giving a location
"You know, I saw something near Shimmermist Cave, to the northeast. Some kind of creature... small and wicked. Never seen its like before." 	Whiterun 	Giving a location
"Be glad you're here in the city, and not out in Riverwood. Those poor sods don't even have a wall." 	Whiterun 	After "Dragon Rising"
"I worry about the other settlements in the hold. Unwalled, lightly manned - prime targets for those damned dragons." 	Whiterun 	After "Dragon Rising"
"Rorikstead's a nice enough little hamlet, but a boring posting for a guard. If a dragon attacks, well... then it'll be a different story." 	Whiterun 	After "Dragon Rising"
"Thinking of settling in? There's a house for sale - Breezehome. You should talk to the steward up in the keep if you're interested." 	Whiterun 	Before buying Breezehome
"You're that one lives in Breezehome, right? Fine place. Almost bought it myself." 	Whiterun 	After buying Breezehome
"You're just in time to say hello to Roggvir." 	Solitude 	First seeing Solitude
"Stand back. Interrupting an execution is a serious crime." 	Solitude 	At Roggvir's execution
"You can sell off that junk at Bits and Pieces." 	Solitude 	General
"If you need potions, head over to Angeline's Aromatics." 	Solitude 	General
"Solitude is as glorious as they said it was. Nothing like Falkreath where I grew up." 	Solitude 	General
"The Winking Skeever's got warm beds and cold mead. You look like you could use both." 	Solitude 	General
"If it's arms or armor you need, see Beirand in Castle Dour. Bloody good blacksmith, that one." 	Solitude 	General
"I don't abide fancy clothes, but you look like you might. I hear Radiant Raiments has a large selection." 	Solitude 	General
"The road to Whiterun's not safe these days. Lots of travelers just... disappear, south of Dragon Bridge. Can't find a trace of them." 	Solitude 	Giving a location
"You heard of Ravenscar Hollow? Cave on the island to the west. Place is a roost for those foul Hagravens." 	Solitude 	Giving a location
"Pinemoon Cave is down to the southwest, but it ain't fit for exploring. There are stories... Vampires, some say..." 	Solitude 	Giving a location
"Off the coast a ways to the east, you'll find the wreck of the Brinehammer. Never know what treasures may still be aboard." 	Solitude 	Giving a location
"You're the one saved the Fire Festival. I remember." 	Solitude 	After "Tending the Flames"
"Look, that Vici woman had a bodyguard. I know it's terrible she got murdered at her own wedding, but the city guard is hardly to blame..." 	Solitude 	After "Bound Until Death"
"Proudspire Manor, now there's a fine home. Up for sale, too. If you're interested, talk to the steward, in the keep." 	Solitude 	Before buying Proudspire Manor
"You own Proudspire Manor, hmm? Beautiful house. At least from the outside." 	Solitude 	After buying Proudspire Manor
"The Imperials think we need their laws. Pfft." 	Windhelm 	General
"The Imperials think us all lawless beasts. I'm proof of their ignorance." 	Windhelm 	General
"Stay away from the Aretino Residence. The place is cursed." 	Windhelm 	General
"If it's bed or board you're after, Candlehearth Hall's got both." 	Windhelm 	General
"If you need an apothecary, the White Phial has respectable stock." 	Windhelm 	General
"Loyal Nords are always welcome here. Anyone else better watch their step." 	Windhelm 	General
"We got a nickname for anyone who trifles with us guards here in Windhelm - "Suicide."" 	Windhelm 	General
"You should unload some of that unwanted gear. Head over to Sadri's Used Wares, talk to the Elf." 	Windhelm 	General
"This is Stormcloak territory. If you're one of those craven Imperials, don't expect a warm welcome." 	Windhelm 	General
"The Dunmer get their drinks at the New Gnisis Cornerclub. Why they can't just call it a tavern is beyond me..." 	Windhelm 	General
"My heart goes out to Clan Shatter-Shield. Kin murdered, family warhammer stolen... There's no fairness in all that." 	Windhelm 	General
"You hear the news? There's a dragon roosting up on Mount Anthor, to the northwest." 	Windhelm 	Giving a location
"The Eye of Talos was a fine ship, once. Now it lies wrecked, off an island just north of here." 	Windhelm 	Giving a location
"I've no problem with Orcs. But that stronghold they've got in the southeast? Narzulbur? It's an affront to my people." 	Windhelm 	Giving a location
"Across the river to the northeast lies Yngol Barrow. Steer clear of that foul place, lest the walking dead claim you as their own." 	Windhelm 	Giving a location
"Maybe you've seen masts sticking out of the water to the northeast? That would be the wreck of the Winter War. Fine vessel, back in its day." 	Windhelm 	Giving a location
"Tell me you've seen them. Those... things. Small and evil, like something out of a nightmare. They come from Stillborn Cave, to the north. I know it."	Windhelm 	Giving a location
"By the gods, you're diseased. Get yourself to the White Phial and purchase a remedy, before you infect us all." 	Windhelm 	You're diseased
"With Nurelion gone, I suppose Quintus has taken over business in the White Phial." 	Windhelm 	After "The White Phial"
"I was this close to catching that killer. I swear it." 	Windhelm 	After "Blood on the Ice"
"Bad idea." 	Stormcloak	Combat
"The Stormcloaks pay blood for blood!" 	Stormcloak	Combat
"For the Emperor!" 	Imperial 	Combat
"You dare dishonor the Legion?" 	Imperial 	Combat
"Fool! The Imperial Legion will have your blood!" 	Imperial 	Combat
"It is whispered that one of the Daedric Princes himself is behind the murder of Elisif. It would seem even the nobility of Oblivion favors our cause."	Stormcloak	After "Boethiah's Bidding"
"Filthy she-hound Elisif got what she deserved. Let her serve as "High Queen" of Oblivion, for all I care." 	Stormcloak	After "Boethiah's Bidding"
"First Torygg and now Elisif. Damn those Stormcloaks. Let's hope that Erikur fares better than they did." 	Imperial 	After "Boethiah's Bidding"
"We'll protect Erikur as best we're able, but I fear the throne of Solitude is cursed." 	Imperial 	After "Boethiah's Bidding"
"These boys do good work for the Empire!" 	Any 	Unused
"Nice to be here on the home-front. Wouldn't mind being down in Cyrodiil, though." 	Any 	Unused
"I used to serve with Trilf and Steirod. Good guys, but don't get on their bad side, you know?" 	Any 	Unused
"I once saw Steirod tear a whole tree out the ground with his bare hands. Glad he's on our side!" 	Any 	Unused
===Crimes===
Quote 	Guard 	Scenario
"By order of the Jarl, stop right there!" 	Any 	Committed a crime
"You have committed crimes against Skyrim and her people. What say you in your defense?" 	Any 	Committed a crime
"The "problem" is your disrespect for the laws of this land. It's time to face the Jarl's justice." 	Any 	Asked what's up
"Then pay with your blood." 	Any 	Resisted arrest
"Skyrim has no use for your kind." 	Any 	Resisted arrest
"Then let me speed your passage to Sovngarde!" 	Any 	Resisted arrest
"Time to cleanse the Empire of its filth." 	Solitude 	Resisted arrest
"I guess you're smarter than you look." 	Any 	You come quietly
"Ha, enjoy the Chill." 	Winterhold	You come quietly
"It's off to Cidhna Mine for you." 	Markarth 	You come quietly
"You'll never see the sun again. No one escapes Cidhna Mine. No one." 	Markarth 	You come quietly
"You're going to rot in the Dragonsreach Dungeon." 	Whiterun 	You come quietly
"A stretch in the Castle Dour Dungeon will straighten you right out." 	Solitude 	You come quietly
"Good enough. I'll just confiscate any stolen goods you're carrying, then you're free to go." 	Any 	Paid the fine
"Smart man/woman. Now come along with us. We'll take any stolen goods, and you'll be free to go. After you pay the fine, of course." 	Any 	Paid the fine
"I can make all your problems with the guards go away. But it'll cost you. What do you say?" 	Any 	Guard likes you
"Well, your bounty is low... All right, get out of my sight. But you're known to me now, scum. Remember that." 	Any 	"I don't have time for this."
"You know what? You're not worth the hassle. Go... be some other guard's problem." 	Any 	"I don't have time for this."
"You aren't fooling me. Trusted witnesses have seen you commit several murders." 	Any 	Said you were framed
"And there are accounts of your suspicious behavior throughout the city. Now come quietly." 	Any 	Said you were framed
"Done. Now move along, before you get me in trouble." 	Any 	Bribed the guard
"Well... maybe just this once. But there's still a price on your head. Better make yourself scarce, or we'll have to do this little dance again."	Any 	Bribed the guard
"I don't care who you're with. After what you did, you're lucky I'm not cutting you down where you stand!" 	Any 	Bribery fail
"Not a chance. Not for this. You're going to the Cidhna Mine for the rest of your days." 	Markarth 	Bribery fail
"Then suffer the Emperor's wrath." 	Imperial 	Bribery fail
"Suit yourself, but you better decide what you want to do about this arrest. No one walks away for free." 	Any 	Not enough gold
"Wait... I know you." 	Any 	Low bounty
"In the name of the Jarl, I'm ordering you to stand fast!" 	Any 	High bounty
"There's no mistake. You're a wanted man/woman... and it's time to pay for your crimes." 	Any 	Told the guard (s)he's mistaken
"The only mistake was you showing your face. You've committed crimes against Skyrim and her people, and it's time to face the Jarl's justice." 	Any 	Told the guard (s)he's mistaken
"You're the one who conspired with the Forsworn against Markarth! You're coming with me, murderer!" 	Markarth 	Told the guard (s)he's mistaken
"You're not sweet-talking your way out of this. Not after what you did. You're headed to Cidhna Mine, and that's that." 	Markarth 	Persuasion fail
"All right, but you just watch yourself. Next time, I might not be so lenient." 	Any 	Persuaded the guard
"You know what? You're not worth the hassle. Go... be some other guard's problem." 	Any 	Persuaded the guard
"Well, your bounty is low... All right, get out of my sight. But you're known to me now, scum. Remember that." 	Any 	Persuaded the guard
"Oh, forgive me, Thane. I didn't realize it was you." 	Any 	You're the Thane
"No one in the Jarl's court is above the charge of conspiring against the city. You're coming with us." 	Any 	You're the Thane
"The Thu'um! He/She summons the Thu'um!" 	Any 	Used the Thu'um
"By the Gods! What manner of power is that?" 	Any 	Used the Thu'um
"It is the power of old! The Voice of the Dragonborn!" 	Any 	Used the Thu'um
"I need to ask you to stop. That... shouting... is making people nervous." 	Any 	Used the Thu'um
"I've got my eye on you." 	Any 	Said "Whatever."
"Good. Glad we straightened that out." 	Any 	Apologised for shout
"Can't say I've heard of any laws against... whatever that is you're doing. But I'll lock you up if I have to." 	Any 	Didn't apologise
"You've got a lot of nerve, walking around here dressed like an Imperial Legionnaire." 	Stormcloak	Dressed as Imperial
"You don't seem to realize there's a war on. What you are is a damn Imperial spy!" 	Stormcloak	Challenge guard
"Hmm. I still don't like it, but I guess I'll overlook it. This time." 	Stormcloak	Apologised
"What do you think you're doing, walking around dressed like a damn Stormcloak traitor?" 	Imperial 	Dressed as Stormcloak
"Is that right? Here's how the Legion deals with rebel scum like you." 	Imperial 	Challenge guard
"Well. I'll let it slide this time. But you'd be smart to take that off. Someone might get the wrong idea." 	Imperial 	Apologised
==Conversations==
===Riften's Other Gates===
Riften Guard: Hold and stand down. If you want to get into Riften, use the North Gate. This one's closed.
Dragonborn: Why? What's going on?
Riften Guard: My orders are to tell the riff-raff to use the North Gate, that's it.
Dragonborn: Could you make an exception in my case?
Riften Guard: No. You can use the North Gate, or you can head to the next city.
Dragonborn: How about you let me in anyway? (25 Gold)
Riften Guard: Keep it. Not worth going to prison over.
Dragonborn: I'm getting in this way. Stand aside!
Riften Guard: That's a quick way to the executioner's block.
===Riften's North Gate===
Riften Guard: Hold there. Before I let you into Riften, you need to pay the visitor's tax.
Dragonborn: What's the tax for?
Riften Guard: For the privilege of entering the city. What does it matter?
Dragonborn: You're obviously a thief. I kill thieves.
Riften Guard: I think you'd be a little smarter than that.
Dragonborn: Forget it. I'll come back.
Riften Guard: Don't want in, huh? Fine. Have a good walk to the next city. [...] You want in, you need to cooperate. [...] Have you decided to pay the visitor's tax?
Dragonborn: This is obviously a shakedown.
Riften Guard: All right, keep your voice down... you want everyone to hear you? I'll let you in, just let me unlock the gate.
Dragonborn: This is obviously a shakedown, but I'll pay. (211 gold)
Riften Guard: It's been a pleasure doing business with you. Let me open the gate and you can head into the city.
==="Blood on the Ice"===
==="Delayed Burial"===
Guard: You there! Fool! Hold fast. You've been accused of a crime against the laws of this land. What say you in your defense?
Cicero: Wh... What? A crime? Me? Preposterous! Poor Cicero is just standing here! Cicero loves order. Oh yes! He would never disrespect the law!
Guard: You look like a crazy man to me. And what's in that coffin, hmm? Maybe some time in a cell will help loosen that lying tongue.
Cicero: Damn that Loreius. Oh, how he will pay for this treachery...
Guard: You just keep quiet and stay where you are. Soon as my relief arrives, we'll all take a nice little trip.
==="Hard Answers"===
Markarth Guard 1: What a waste! There must be a dozen men up there!
Markarth Guard 2: Yeah. Calcelmo called in his entire expedition team - said he needed every man he could get to protect his research.
Markarth Guard 1: Better them than us. We lost three good men to the traps up there, and for what- just to see another damn spider clanking around?
Markarth Guard 2: Well, at least this post is safe enough. Come on, let's get back to work.
==Trivia==
*Guards may refer to you as a werewolf even if you have been cured of lycanthropy.
*Guards will attack you if they see you wearing the Gray Cowl of Nocturnal. Followers who wear the cowl are not affected by this.
*Some guards fail to respawn due to missing respawn flags in the game data. This can potentially lead to depopulation of the entire guard force in the affected areas over time.
*Fans have mocked the "arrow in the knee" quote (as seen at the top of the page) for making the guards sound weak, but the quote is actually a euphemism for getting married - getting down on one knee.
*They were voiced by Olev Aleksander and . The female Stormcloaks were voiced by Martina Lotun, who also voiced Mjoll the Lioness.
**Aleksander voiced Hakon One-Eye during "Alduin's Bane", while Ganus voiced Hakon during "Sovngarde" and "Dragonslayer".
*There are a few goofs when commenting on Dragonborn.
**Guards do not react to Bretons.
**Guards do not react to Daedric Armor.
**If playing as an Orc, guards still say the same line if you wear Orcish armour, describing it as "ugly and strong, like those that forged it".
**If playing as a Khajiit, guards still ask a werewolf Dragonborn "Is that... fur? Coming out of your ears?", even though all Khajiit have fur.
==Licensing==
This article contains content derived from the "Hold Guard" article on the TES Wiki, licensed under CC-BY-SA.
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