Brynjolf (Skyrim)

Brynjolf is a Nord thief and a member of the Thieves Guild in Riften. Brynjolf is currently the second-in-command at the Thieves Guild, below only Mercer Frey, the current Guildmaster.
==Interactions==
===A Chance Arrangement===
Brynjolf is first encountered upon entering the Riften Marketplace for the first time, or if it is after dark, in The Bee and Barb. He approaches the Dragonborn and offers to let them in on a job on which he is working. If they accept, this starts the quest.
He says that he will create a diversion in the market. While everyone is distracted, the Dragonborn must break into the stall belonging to the Argonian jeweler Madesi, steal his ring, and place it into the Dunmer merchant Brand-Shei's pocket without getting caught. The ring is under the stall inside a locked strongbox, not in the display case.
If the Dragonborn is successful, after Brand-Shei is arrested, Brynjolf will happily say that he found the right person for the job. He then directs the Dragonborn to the Ratway, an underground tunnel system underneath Riften, explaining that there is a tavern there called The Ragged Flagon, and if they can get to it, they can join his organization. If the Dragonborn fails to plant the ring, they will still be asked to go to the Ragged Flagon and join the Guild.
Upon reaching The Ragged Flagon, Brynjolf will be impressed. After then asking the Dragonborn to collect some debts owed to him from several of the shopkeepers or business managers in Riften, namely Keerava, Haelga, and Bersi Honey-Hand, he will then introduce the Dragonborn to Mercer Frey, the Guildmaster, and induct the Dragonborn into the Thieves Guild.
===Thieves Guild questline===
Brynjolf helps the Dragonborn by providing information and advice for future jobs.
During the main line of quests for the Thieves Guild, Brynjolf and the Dragonborn become Nightingales, like guildmaster-turned-traitor Mercer Frey, to assist Karliah with seeking revenge on him for his various crimes against the Thieves Guild and their patron Daedra in Nocturnal.
After the Thieves Guild main questline, Brynjolf can be found wandering around the cistern and the flagon. Due to a bug, when spoken to, he will say that he has important things to do and will talk sometime later, rather than speaking his scripted post-quest dialogue.
===Under New Management===
Brynjolf will nominate the Dragonborn to be the guildmaster after the completion of the city influence jobs given by Delvin and Vex, and also give them the Tribute Chest Key and the Amulet of Articulation.
==Dialogue==
Show: A Cornered Rat
Inside Riften:
If the Dragonborn has not completed "A Chance Arrangement":
Actually, I'm looking for this old guy hiding out in Riften. "Expecting free information, eh? Help me deal with business first, then we'll see how I can help you. Besides, you look like your pockets are a little light on coin, am I right?"
:Let me find him first. Dragons are bad for business. (Persuade)
:*(Success) "Aye, you've got a point there. Your guy's hiding out in the Ratway Warrens and paying us good coin for nobody to know about it. Well, until now that is. Tell you what. Go ahead and deal with your business for now. When you're done, find me and we'll deal with mine."
:*(Failure) "Passing on a golden opportunity is worse."
:Hold on - I just wanted some information. "And I'm busy. You help me out, and I'll help you out. That's just how it is."
If the Dragonborn has completed "A Chance Arrangement":
I'm looking for an old guy, probably hiding out in the Ratway. "Yeah. I bet I know your guy. He's hiding out in the Ratway Warrens. Paying us good coin for nobody to know about it."
Show: A Chance Arrangement
In Riften:
"Never done an honest day's work in your life for all that coin you're carrying, eh lad?"
:I'm sorry, what? "I'm saying you've got the coin, but you didn't earn a septim of it honestly. I can tell."
::How could you possibly know that? "It's all about sizing up your mark, lad. The way they walk, what they're wearing. It's a dead giveaway."
::My wealth is none of your business. "Oh, but that's where you're wrong, lad. Wealth is my business. Maybe you'd like a taste?"
:::What do you have in mind? "I've got a bit of an errand to perform, but I need an extra pair of hands. And in my line of work, extra hands are well-paid."
::::What do I have to do? "Simple.... I'm going to cause a distraction and you're going to steal Madesi's silver ring from a strongbox under his stand. Once you have it, I want you to place it in Brand-Shei's pocket without him noticing."
:::::Why plant the ring on Brand-Shei? "There's someone that wants to see him put out of business permanently. That's all you need to know. Now, you tell me when you're ready and we'll get started."
::::::Why are we doing this to Brand-Shei? "We've been contracted to make sure Brand-Shei remember not to meddle in affairs that aren't his own. Now, since we're not the Dark Brotherhood, we're not going to kill him, we're just going to make sure he sits in the prisons for a few days."
::::::How am I supposed to do all of this? "Do you want me to hold your hand as well? You're going to have to sneak to Madesi's stall and use your lockpick on the strongbox. Then when you have the ring, you pickpocket Brand-Shei and leave it behind."
::::::I'm ready. Let's get this started.
:::::Break the law? Are you kidding? "Sorry... I usually have a nose for this kind of thing. Never mind then, lad. If you change your mind, come find me."
If left in dialogue:
"I can take a hint, lad. You want to make some coin, come find me."
If told no but later approached again:
"Glad to see you finally came to your senses. Ready to make some coin?"
:What do I have to do? "Simple.... I'm going to cause a distraction and you're going to steal Madesi's silver ring from a strongbox under his stand. Once you have it, I want you to place it in Brand-Shei's pocket without him noticing."
::Why plant the ring on Brand-Shei? "There's someone that wants to see him put out of business permanently. That's all you need to know. Now, you tell me when you're ready and we'll get started."
:::Why are we doing this to Brand-Shei? "We've been contracted to make sure Brand-Shei remember not to meddle in affairs that aren't his own. Now, since we're not the Dark Brotherhood, we're not going to kill him, we're just going to make sure he sits in the prisons for a few days."
:::How am I supposed to do all of this? "Do you want me to hold your hand as well? You're going to have to sneak to Madesi's stall and use your lockpick on the strongbox. Then when you have the ring, you pickpocket Brand-Shei and leave it behind."
:::I'm ready. Let's get this started. "Good. Wait until I start the distraction and then show me what you're made of."
:No, never mind. "You're trying my patience, lad."
During the scheme:
"When I'm done here, I'd be more than happy to sell you an elixir."
"Please, please... hold all your questions until after I've finished!"
"Oh, excuse me, milord. I'll be glad to sell you an elixir after I'm done with these fine people."
After planting the ring:
"Looks like I chose the right person for the job. And here you go... your payment, just as I promised. The way things have been going around here, it's a relief that our plan went off without a hitch."
:What's been going on? "Bah. My organization's been having a run of bad luck, but I suppose that's just how it goes. But never mind that, you did the job and you did it well. Best of all, there's more where that came from... if you think you can handle it."
::I can handle it. "All right, then. Let's put that to the test. The group I represent has its home in the Ratway beneath Riften... a tavern called the Ragged Flagon. Get there in one piece and we'll see if you've really got what it takes."
::The money's nice, but I don't know... "Look, I'll make this simple for you. The group I represent has its home in the Ratway beneath Riften... a tavern called the Ragged Flagon. When you make up your mind, come find me there and we'll talk about your future."
::No way. It was wrong to do those things. "Arrogant, eh? Play it however you want, but listen up. The group I represent has its home in the Ratway beneath Riften... a tavern called the Ragged Flagon. When you come to your senses, find me there and we'll discuss your future."
If approached again:
"All right, I'll entertain you a bit more. Go on."
:Can't we talk here? "The walls have ears and you're being tested, lad. We'll talk in the Ragged Flagon."
:How do I find the Ratway? "If I have to hold your hand through everything, maybe you aren't cut out for this kind of work. It's under your feet, lad. Just follow the smell."
"Come back when you grow a backbone."
Show: Taking Care of Business
Inside The Ragged Flagon:
"Well, well... color me impressed, lad. I wasn't certain I'd ever see you again!"
:Getting here was easy. "Reliable and headstrong? You're turning out to be quite the prize! So... now that I've whetted your appetite with our little scheme at the market, how about handling a few deadbeats for me?"
:I almost got killed. "No risk, no reward. That's the way it goes, so you better get used to it. Now... if you're done bellyaching like a child, how about handling a few deadbeats for me?"
:Don't know why I bothered. This place is a mess. "If you were expecting a palace, then maybe you're not cut out for this kind of work. Our methods involve secrecy and discretion. Now... if you're done bellyaching like a child, how about handling a few deadbeats for me?"
::Deadbeats? What'd they do? "They owe our organization some serious coin and they've decided not to pay. I want you to explain to them the error of their ways."
:::Sounds good. Who are they? "Keerava, Bersi Honey-Hand and Haelga. Do this right, and I can promise you a permanent place in our organization."
::::How did you want me to handle it? "Honestly, the debt is secondary here. What's more important is that you get the message across that we aren't to be ignored. A word of warning though... I don't want any of them killed. Bad for business."
:::::Consider it done. "Good. If you need any details on your marks, I'll be here. Now get going."
:::::Will I get a cut? "Of course you'll get a cut. We take care of our own. Now if you need any details on your marks, I'll be here. Get going."
::::::Any help with Bersi? "He's as pig-headed a man as you'll ever find. The key is that ugly dwarven urn in his shop. Smash that thing to bits and he'll change his attitude."
::::::What's Haelga's story? "Haelga is a devout follow of the Dibella and dotes over the statue to the Divine that she keeps at the Bunkhouse. Use it as leverage and she'll cave."
::::::Any tips about Keerava? "Keerava's stubborn, but she's got a soft spot for family. Talk to Talen-Jei at the Bee and Barb and see if you can get something out of him. They're... well acquainted if you catch my meaning."
After gating the payments:
"Have anything for us yet?"
:I have Bersi's Payment. "I wasn't sure he'd see the light, but I'm sure you "explained it" to him. Well done!"
:Got Haelga's payment here. "She's as stubborn as she is beautiful, isn't she? Glad you found a way to get her to pay."
"I'll be here when you're done."
After getting all the payments:
"So, job's done and you even brought the gold. Best of all you did it clean. I like that. Dumping bodies and keeping the guards quiet can be expensive."
:Here's what they owed us. "Well done. And it would seem I owe you something in return. Here you go, I think you'll find these quite useful."
::What's next, then? "Judging from how well you handled those shopkeepers, I'd say you've done more than simply prove yourself. We need people like you in our outfit."
:::If there's more gold where that came from, I'm in. "That's the spirit! Larceny's in your blood... the telltale sign of a practiced thief. I think you'll do more than just fit in around here."
::::Before we go, I have to ask... "What's on your mind?"
:::::Word is your outfit isn't doing well. True? "We've run into a rough patch lately, but it's nothing to be concerned about. Tell you what. You keep making us coin and I'll worry about everything else. Fair enough?"
::::::Fair enough. "Now if there are no more questions, how about following me and I'll show you what we're all about."
Show: Loud and Clear
Inside The Ragged Flagon:
"Let me show you the operation, then you can ask your questions."
"Keep following, it isn't far."
"It's just this way. Keep following me."
After officially joining the guild:
"Welcome to the family, lad. I'm expecting you to make us a lot of coin, so don't disappoint me."
:So how do I get my cut of the spoils? "Simple. Do as you're told and keep your blade clean. We can't turn a profit by killing. You should talk with Delvin Mallory and Vex. They know their way around this place and they'll be able to kick some extra jobs your way. Oh, and talk to Tonilia in the Flagon... she'll set you up with your new armor."
::Tell me about the Goldenglow job. "Goldenglow Estate is a bee farm; they raise the wretched little things for honey. It's owned by some smart-mouth wood elf named Aringoth. We need you to teach him a lesson by burning down three of the estate's hives and clearing out the safe in the main house."
:::What's the catch? "The catch is that you can't burn the whole place to the ground. That important client Mercer mentioned would be furious if you did."
::::Who cares, we're the Thieves Guild. "That's not how things work around here. The Guild depends on an arrangement of influential people to keep things running smoothly. Without them at our backs, we'd be in serious trouble."
::::Makes sense. "Aye, the last thing we want to be doing is crossing our clients."
::::What's so important about these clients? "The Guild depends on an arrangement of influential people to keep things running smoothly. Without them at our backs, we'd be in serious trouble."
:::::What should I do about Aringoth? "Maven prefers that Aringoth remains alive, but if he tries to stop you from getting the job done, kill him. The Guild has a lot riding on this. Don't make me look foolish by mucking it up."
::::::I need more details about Goldenglow. "Goldenglow Estate brought in a mountain of gold for the Guild. You could almost call it our sweetest deal. Then out of the clear blue, Aringoth stops sending us our cut. Mercer was... well, angry to put it kindly. So we send in Vex and find out he's hired a bunch of mercenaries to guard the place."
:::::::Mercenaries? Not Riften guards? "Aye. Aringoth sent the city guard packing and fortified the entire island. In fact, Vex barely made it out of there alive. You should talk to her about it before you go."
::::::How do I destroy the bee hives? "They're built like small fortresses to resist the weather, but their one weakness is fire. Besides, nothing tells the people of Riften we means business better than a huge column of smoke."
:::::::Why not level the entire estate? "I'll give you one good reason. Maven Black-Briar. Burn all the hives and she'd have to import honey for Black-Briar Meadery which would cut into her profits."
::::::::Maven Black-Briar is the influential client? "We had an arrangement with Maven. We kept an eye on Goldenglow Estate to make sure the honey kept flowing. If the workers had a dispute, we'd rough them up. If competitors tried to buy honey from Aringoth, we'd steal the shipments. In return, Maven allowed us to extort Aringoth and bring in a huge payout."
:::::::::So, how dangerous is it to cross her? "Let me put it to you this way. Nothing happens in Riften without Maven's consent. One word from her and you could spend the rest of the fourth era in prison."
"You watch yourself on that island. Those mercenaries don't take prisoners."
After destroying the three bee hives and robbing the safe:
"Word on the street is Goldenglow's been hit. Good job, lad."
:Yes, and here's what was in the safe. "Let me take a look at what you found. Aringoth sold Goldenglow? What's that idiot thinking? He has no idea the extent of Maven's fury when she's been cut out of a deal, but I'm certain he'll find out. If only the parchment had the buyer's name instead of this odd symbol. Any idea what that might be?"
::No idea. "Blast. Well, I'll check my sources and speak to Mercer. But for now, you're off to speak to Maven Black-Briar. She asked for you by name."
:::Good, it's about time I met her. "Don't sound so eager, it's not a social visit. It's business."
:::I thought I did the job like you asked...? "Oh, no. Nothing like that. You're calling on her for business."
:::Sure, but will I come out of there alive? "Ha ha. If it was like that she wouldn't be asking for you, she'd be calling on the Dark Brotherhood. It's just business."
::::What does Maven want from me? "That's between you and Maven and I prefer to keep it that way. Don't worry about it. Maven's business dealings usually involve quite a bit of gold for her people."
:::::Speaking of which... "Of course... your pay. Haha! You're smart as a whip, lad. Keep doing right by us and there's plenty more where that came from."
If more than three bee hives were burned:
"You've made a mess of things and Maven's furious. I told you not to burn more than three of the hives! I've smoothed things over with her for now, but you can forget your cut."
:Sorry. Here's what was in the safe. "At least you remembered one of the things I asked. Let me see that. Aringoth sold Goldenglow? What's that idiot thinking? He has no idea the extent of Maven's fury when she's been cut out of a deal, but I'm certain he'll find out. If only the parchment had the buyer's name instead of this odd symbol. Any idea what that might be?"
Show: Dampened Spirits
Inside The Ragged Flagon - Cistern:
"Word on the street is that poor Sabjorn has found himself in Whiterun's prison. How unfortunate for him."
:Yet very fortunate for Maven. "Exactly! Now you're beginning to see how our little system works. Maven sent word that you discovered something else while you were out there. Something important to the Guild?"
::The same symbol from Goldenglow was involved. "Then this is beyond coincidence. First Aringoth and now Sabjorn. Someone's trying to take us down by driving a wedge between Maven and the Guild."
:::Is there anything we can do? "Mercer thinks he knows a way to identify this new thorn in our side. He wants to meet with you right away. And if I were you I'd hurry. I've never seen him this angry before."
If approached again:
"No time for idle chatter. Mercer is awaiting your presence."
Show: Scoundrel's Folly
Inside The Ragged Flagon - Cistern:
"I can't believe Gulum-Ei's mixed up in all this; that Argonian couldn't find his tail with both hands. Don't get me wrong, he could scam a beggar out of his last septim... but he's no mastermind."
:Think he'll give me trouble? "Trouble? He's one of the most stubborn lizards I've ever met! You have your work cut out for you."
::So how do I get him to talk? "You're going to have to buy him off; it's the only way to get his attention. If that fails, follow him and see what he's up to. If I know Gulum-Ei, he's in way over his head and you'll be able to use it as leverage."
:::Betrayal or not, I'll let him live. "I'm glad to see you're embracing our methods. It would be a waste to lose a contact at the East Empire Company before we had the entire story. Just keep on Gulum-Ei's tail and he's bound to step into something he can't scrape off his boot."
:::He's going to owe us for this betrayal. "Aye, he does indeed... and with his fingers in the East Empire Company's pie, we'll make good use of that debt. If I'm not being clear enough, that means we don't want him killed. For now, just keep on his tail and he's bound to step into something he can't scrape off his boot."
:::If he's betrayed us, I'll kill him. "No, no. Mercer wants him alive, for now. Stubborn or not, he's the only contact we've got at the East Empire Company. Just keep on his tail and he's bound to step into something he can't scrape off his boot."
::::If I get information from Gulum-Ei, what then? "Just head right back to the Guild and get the information to Mercer. Nothing else is more important. If you discover Gulum-Ei's holding out on us and has more loot stashed away than he claims, we'd find that information quite valuable as well."
::::How is Gulum-Ei an asset to the Guild? "Gulum-Ei works in the East Empire Company Warehouse. He helps maintain all of the shipments of goods that goes in and out of Solitude. That means he has the pick of the litter from some of the finest goods to grace Skyrim's shores. He isn't exactly in the Guild, but he pays us a cut of all the stuff he lifts from the warehouse."
::::You think Gulum-Ei will give me trouble? "There are thieves and then there is Gulum-Ei. No honor, no code at all. He'd shake your hand and stab you in the back at the same time. The cut he's supposed to provide the Guild has dwindled as of late. He says pickings in the Warehouse are slim, but I'm certain he's lying. Keep your eyes on him, he's quite crafty."
::::East Empire Company? Who are they? "A mercantile group that has established ports all over Tamriel. They pretty much dominate the whole shipping industry. The Emperor himself supposedly backs them, which means they have fairly unlimited resources... so don't get their feathers in a ruffle."
"Good luck in Solitude. Keep Gulum-Ei alive, but remind him who we are."
Show: The Pursuit
Inside The Ragged Flagon - Cistern:
"Look, before I help you track Mercer down I need to know what you learned from Karliah. I mean everything."
:Mercer killed Gallus, not Karliah. "Aye. I feared that was the case. From that last entry in Gallus' diary, it looks like he was getting close to exposing Mercer to the Guild. Anything else?"
:Gallus, Karliah and Mercer were Nightingales. "What? Nightingales? But, I always assumed they were just a tale... a way to keep the young footpads in line. Was there anything else she told you?"
:Karliah was behind Goldenglow and Honningbrew. "Trying to make Mercer look bad in front of Maven, eh? Clever lass. Was there anything else?"
::No, that's it. "Then I have an important task for you. I need you to break into Mercer's home and search for anything that could tell us where he's gone."
:::He has a house in Riften? "Aye. A gift from the Black-Briars after they kicked the previous family out... place called Riftweald Manor. He never stays there, just pays for the upkeep on it. Hired some lout by the name of Vald to guard the place."
::::I'll take care of it. "Be careful, lad. This is the last place in Skyrim I'd ever want to send you. Just find a way in, get the information and leave. And you have permission to kill anyone that stands in your way."
:::::What's the best way to get into Riftweald Manor? "Good question. I've only set foot inside a few times myself and that was in Mercer's company. If you can get past his trained watchdog, I think your best bet might be the ramp to the second floor balcony in his backyard."
::::::I don't suppose the ramp is easy to access. "No. It's some sort of crazy contraption Mercer commissioned for quick escapes. I'd wager a well-placed shot at the ramp's mechanism would lower it in a hurry."
:::::::You mentioned a watchdog? "That'd be Vald. A real piece of work, that one. Mercer's holding something over his head, keeping him loyal. Talk to Vex. She used to know him very well... if you catch my meaning."
:::::What's missing from the vault? "Better question would be "what did he leave." Mercer took everything. Even all of our plans are gone."
::::::Plans for what? "Before Mercer took over, Gallus started collecting every bit of material he could on locations the Guild could heist. Museums, keeps, estates... you name it. By the time Mercer took over the Guild we must have had a few dozen."
:::::::How could he have opened the vault door alone? "I don't have a clue. That door is impenetrable. Without two keys, it's impossible to open. I have a key, Delvin has a key, and Mercer has a key. That's it. There are no other copies."
"Careful at Mercer's place, I don't want to lose anyone else to that madman."
After checking through the house:
"We've scoured the town and I've to spoken to every contact we have left. No sign of Mercer. Any luck on your end?"
:He wasn't there, but I found these plans. "Shor's beard! He's going after the Eyes of the Falmer? That was Gallus's pet project. If he gets his hands on them, you can be certain he'll be gone for good and set up for life."
::Then we have to stop him. "Agreed. He's taken everything the Guild has left, and to go after one of the last greatest heists is just an insult. I've spoken to Karliah, and made amends for how the Guild's treated her. Now she wishes to speak with both of us. Quickly, we have no time to lose."
After becoming a Nightingale:
"Listen, lad. There's one last piece of business we need to settle before we go after Mercer... the leadership of the Guild."
:Why tell this to me? "Karliah and I had a long discussion before you arrived here. Thanks to your efforts, Mercer's treachery has been exposed. After we deal with him, all that remains is restoring the Guild to to its full strength. As a result, we both feel that you have the potential of replacing Mercer as leader of the Thieves Guild."
::Me? What about you? "I've been at this game a long time, my friend. A long time. I've stolen trinkets from nobles and framed priests for murder. I'm good at what I do, maybe even one of the best. But it's all I know. I've never been one to lead. Never desired it, never cared for it. Don't want it."
:::I don't know what to say. "Well, we have a bit of an errand to run before your coronation, so don't get sentimental on me now."
:::It's about time you asked. "Ha! Spoken like the leader of the Thieves Guild. Just don't lose yourself in the role. We have a bit of an errand to run before your coronation."
:::No, it's not right. "Look. Everyone in the Guild admires what you've done. Maybe they won't come out and simply tell you, but I promise you it's true. And now they know Mercer never genuinely cared about the Guild. He lacked the loyalty you obviously possess. I can't think of anyone better."
::::I accept. "Then it's decided. When this is all over and Delvin's contacts assure me that we've regained our footing in Skyrim, we'll handle the details. Until then, we have quite the task ahead."
:::::Then let's get to it. "I've been pouring over the plans you brought us, and I'm convinced the Eyes of the Falmer are in the dwarven ruins at Irkngthand. Karliah and I will meet you there. Prepare yourself, lad. This will be a fight to remember!"
::::::I guess we're Nightingales now. "Aye, and some of what Karliah said is starting to make sense. Mercer may have damaged our reputation and raided our coffers, but this goes well beyond even his twisted form of larceny. Old Delvin kept calling it a curse and we all laughed at him. Looks like the joke's on us."
::::::Do we stand a chance against Mercer? "If you would've asked me that yesterday, I'd have said no. But now I think our chances have improved. Look, call me crazy if you like, but I trust Karliah. I don't think she'd lead us down a suicidal path. Besides, I'd rather die with some of Mercer's blood on my blade than spend the rest of my life regretting that I ran the other way."
Show: Blindsighted
Inside Irkngthand:
"By Talos, Mercer has a lot to answer for."
:Do you think Mercer knows we're here? "The lass seems to think old Mercer is pulling a fast one on us... leading us here and letting the dwarven constructs wear us down. I've learned to trust her lead by this point. After all, we Nightingales need to stick together, eh?"
:What are the Eyes of the Falmer? "A few years before Mercer murdered Gallus, the Guild took in a thief who specialized in dwarven antiquities. The thief had broken into a nobleman's home somewhere in Windhelm and made off with a small figurine of a snow elf with crystalline eyes."
::A snow elf? "Aye, that's what the Falmer were known as long ago... before they became the blind monstrosities they are today. When Gallus took one look at this statue, he knew it was something special. He took it right up to Enthir at the College of Winterhold. Didn't take long for Enthir to find a book in the College's library that told of Irkngthand and a great statue with gemmed eyes within."
:::So the Eyes of the Falmer are gems? "Not just ordinary gems. They're said to be flawlessly cut and as big as a man's head. Can you imagine how much they're worth? Gallus and Mercer spent the better part of the month infiltrating Irkngthand, but the dwarves had protected the place far too well. There were just too many obstacles blocking the way. The plans were shelved and the rest is history."
Show: Darkness Returns
Inside The Ragged Flagon - Cistern:
"It's good to see you in one piece, lad! I just wanted to give you a proper thank you for everything you've done. The Guild is back on its feet again and on its way to a prosperous future. What's become of the Skeleton Key?"
:It's been returned to the Sepulcher. "That's it then. After all those years of helplessly watching the Guild decline. But enough of that... I'm confident that with you in charge, we'll soon have more gold than we could possibly spend."
::So, where will you be now? "I'll be down here, trying to coordinate everything with Delvin and Vex; to make sure the coin keeps flowing... and no one skims! If you still feel like doing some jobs, I'm sure Delvin and Vex have more than their fair share to give out. Either way, it's been a pleasure, my friend. Here's to the future of the Guild. May it last another thousand years!"
Show: Under New Management
Inside The Ragged Flagon - Cistern:
"Well, my friend... the time's come to make it official. It's time to become our Guild Master. Don't worry, I promise this will be short and sweet. If you'll just meet us in the center of the cistern room, we can begin."
If approached again:
"We can talk after the Guild Master ceremony."
After the ceremony:
"You need anything, anything at all... don't hesitate to ask."
:How's the Guild doing? "Take a good look around you! Have you ever see the Guild in such a prosperous state? With Mercer Frey gone and our influence spreading across Skyrim, the Guild's earned a new level of respect it hasn't seen in decades. I couldn't be more proud to be a part of the Thieves Guild, or its new Guild Master."
:So that's it? There's nothing else to it? "Well, that's it. Sorry if it isn't the ceremony you were hoping for, but we're not exactly known for throwing our coin around. After we're done here, head over to Tonilia and she'll set you up with your Guild Master Armor. Oh, and one last thing. Here, I want you to take this. It's sort of a tradition around here."
==Conversations==
===Brand-Shei and Madesi===
Brynjolf: "Everyone! Everyone! Gather 'round! I have something amazing to show you that demands your attention! Gather 'round all! No pushing, no shoving. Plenty of room!"
Brand-Shei: "Come on, Brynjolf... what is it this time?"
Brynjolf: "Patience, Brand-Shei. This is a rare opportunity, and I wouldn't want you to get left out."
Madesi: "That's what you said about the Wisp Essence and it turned out to be crushed nirnroot mixed with water!"
Brynjolf: "That was a simple misunderstanding, but this item is the real thing. Lads and lasses I give you, Falmerblood Elixir!"
Brand-Shei: "Oh come on, are you talking about the Snow Elves?"
Brynjolf: "The one and only. Mystical beings who live in legends and were masters of great magic. Imagine the power that coursed through their veins!"
Madesi: "How did you get that, then? No one's seen them in years!"
Brynjolf: "My sources must remain a secret for their own protection but I can promise that the contents are genuine. One sip of the elixir and your wishes will be granted. Great wealth, everlasting life or perhaps limitless power could be yours!"
Brand-Shei: "How much does it cost?"
Brynjolf: "Only twenty gold septims! Hurry before my supply is gone."
Madesi: "Don't listen to him, he's making this up."
Brynjolf: "Please hurry, I have only a few bottles left!"
Brand-Shei: "That Wisp Essence didn't help, but maybe this will."
===Dirge and Vekel the Man===
Vekel the Man: "Give it up, Brynjolf... those days are over."
Brynjolf: "I'm telling you, this one is different..."
Dirge: "We've all heard that one before, Bryn! Quit kidding yourself."
Vekel the Man: "It's time to face the truth, old friend. You, Vex, Mercer... you're all part of a dying breed. Things are changing!"
Brynjolf: "Dying breed, eh? Well what do you call that then!"
===Mercer Frey===
Brynjolf: "Mercer? This is the one I was talking about... our new recruit."
Mercer Frey: "This better not be another waste of the Guild's resources, Brynjolf. Before we continue, I want to make one thing perfectly clear. If you play by the rules, you walk away rich. You break the rules and you lose your share. No debates, no discussion... you do what we say, when we say."
After talking with Mercer:
Brynjolf: "Wait a moment, you're not talking about Goldenglow, are you? Even our little Vex couldn't get in."
Mercer Frey: "You claim this recruit possesses an aptitude for our line of work. If so, let him prove it. Goldenglow Estate is critically important to one of our largest clients. However, the owner has suddenly decided to take matters into his own hands and shut us out. He needs to be taught a lesson. Brynjolf will provide you with the details."
Brynjolf: "Mercer, aren't you forgetting something?"
Mercer Frey: "Hmm? Oh, yes. Since Brynjolf assures me you'll be nothing but a benefit to us, then you're in. Welcome to the Thieves Guild."
===Whiterun Contact===
Mercer Frey: "Brynjolf, have you had a chance to speak to our contact in Whiterun?"
Brynjolf: "Sorry Mercer, they no longer wish to be involved in our operation."
Mercer Frey: "I trust you've applied the appropriate pressure in order to change their mind?"
Brynjolf: "I have. I think we may have to turn this one over to the Dark Brotherhood."
Mercer Frey: "Yes, I'm afraid you're right. Such a shame..."
===The Pursuit===
Brynjolf: "You better have a damn good reason to be here with that murderer."
Karliah: "Please, lower your weapons so we can speak. I have proof that you've all been misled!"
Brynjolf: "No tricks, Karliah or I'll cut you down where you stand. Now what's this so-called proof you speak of?"
Karliah: "I have Gallus' journal. I think you'll find its contents disturbing."
Brynjolf: "Let me see. No, it... it can't be. This can't be true. I've known Mercer too long..."
Karliah: "It's true, Brynjolf. Every word. Mercer's been stealing from the Guild for years, right under your noses."
Brynjolf: "There's only one way to find out if what the lass says is true. Delvin, I'll need you to open the Vault."
Delvin: "Wait just a blessed moment, Bryn. What's in that book? What did it say?"
Brynjolf: "It says Mercer's been stealing from our vault for years. Gallus was looking into it before he was murdered."
Delvin: "How can Mercer open up a vault that needs two keys? It's impossible. Could he pick his way in?"
Vex: "That door has the best puzzle locks money can buy. There's no way it can be picked open."
Karliah: "He didn't need to pick the lock."
Delvin: "What's she on about?"
Brynjolf: "Use your key on the vault, Delvin. We'll open it up and find out the truth."
Delvin: "I've used my key, but the vault's still locked up tighter than a drum. Now use yours."
Brynjolf: "By the Eight! It's gone, everything's gone! Get in here, all of you!"
Delvin: "The gold, the jewels... it's all gone."
Vex: "That son-of-a-bitch! I'll kill him!"
Brynjolf: "Vex! Put it away... right now. We can't afford to lose our heads... we need to calm down and focus."
Delvin: "Do what he says, Vex. This isn't helpin' right now."
Vex: "Fine. We do it your way. For now."
Brynjolf: "Delvin, Vex... watch the Flagon. If you see Mercer, come tell me right away."
===Bad news===
Brynjolf: "Delvin, please tell me you have good news."
Delvin: "If I told you that, I'd be lying. We haven't had a bit in weeks. our clients are starting to get angry."
Brynjolf: "You tell this sorry bunch of thieves that they need to put down their flagons and get to work if they want to keep their status!"
Delvin: "I will, I will..."
===Trinity Restored===
Karliah: "Brynjolf, the time has come to decide Mercer's fate. Until a new Guild Master is chosen, the decision falls to you."
Brynjolf: "Aye, lass... and I've come to a decision. Mercer Frey tried to kill both of you, he betrayed the Guild, murdered Gallus and made us question our future. He needs to die."
Karliah: "We have to be very careful, Brynjolf. Mercer is a Nightingale, an Agent of Nocturnal."
Brynjolf: "Then it's all true... everything I heard in the stories. The Nightingales, their allegiance to Nocturnal and the Twilight Sepulcher."
Karliah: "Yes. That's why we need to prepare ourselves and meet Mercer on equal footing. Just outside of Riften, beyond the Southeast Gate is a small path cut up the mountainside. At the end of that path is a clearing and an old standing stone. I'd ask you both meet me there."
Brynjolf: "So, this is Nightingale Hall. I heard about this place when I joined the Guild, but I never believed it existed."
Karliah: "The assumption that the Nightingales were just a myth was seeded within the Guild on purpose. It helped avert attention from our true nature. What's wrong, Brynjolf? I can almost hear your brow furrowing."
Brynjolf: "I'm trying to understand why I'm here, lass. I'm no priest, and I'm certainly not religious. Why pick me?"
Karliah: "This isn't about religion, Brynjolf... it's business. This is Nightingale Hall. You're the first of the uninitiated to set foot inside in over a century. Now, if you'll both proceed to the armory to don your Nightingale Armor, we can begin the Oath."
Brynjolf: "Okay, lass. We've got these getups on... now what?"
Karliah: "Beyond this gate is the first step in becoming a Nightingale."
Brynjolf: "Woah there, lass. I appreciate the armor, but becoming a Nightingale? That was never discussed."
Karliah: "To hold any hope of defeating Mercer, we must have Nocturnal at our backs. If she's to accept you as one of her own, an arrangement must be struck."
Brynjolf: "What sort of arrangement? I need to know the terms."
Karliah: "The terms are quite simple, Brynjolf. Nocturnal will allow you to become a Nightingale and use your abilities for whatever you wish. And in return, both in life and in death, you must serve as a guardian of the Twilight Sepulcher."
Brynjolf: "Aye, there's always a catch. But at this point, I suppose there isn't much to lose. If it means the end of Mercer Frey, you can count me in."
===Blindsighted===
Karliah: "Wait a moment... what's that? It's Mercer! Look... down there!"
Brynjolf: "I'm on it, lass. Damn it! There's no way through."
Karliah: "He's toying with us. He wants us to follow."
Brynjolf: "Aye, lass... and we'll be ready for him. Let's keep moving."
Brynjolf: "Look at the size of this place. Have you ever seen anything like it in your life, lass?"
Karliah: "Can't say that I have. Imagine the riches hidden within these walls."
Brynjolf: "So this is what we heard. The entire tower collapsed."
Karliah: "The only reason to do that would be to block pursuit. It must be Mercer. We'll have to find another way around."
Brynjolf: "Mercer was able to knock this thing down? Gods..."
Karliah: "It's the Key, Brynjolf. In his hands, there's no telling what he's capable of."
Karliah: "Mercer must have triggered these pistons. We're going to have to search for a way to open them."
Brynjolf: "I'll bet my last septim that there's a mechanism around here somewhere."
Brynjolf: "Shor's Bones! Look at that monstrosity."
Karliah: "It's a Dwarven Centurion. Very tough and very deadly."
Brynjolf: "We can take the beast on or sneak around. It's your call, . We're right behind you."
Brynjolf: "The stench... this place reeks of Falmer."
Karliah: "This must be their hive. We'll have to keep silent if we want to avoid drawing their attention."
Karliah: "There's a mass of the Falmer in this chamber. We can sneak through or take them down... I don't care. As long as we get to Mercer."
Brynjolf: "Aye. Whatever want to do, we're with you."
Karliah: "He's close. I'm certain of it. We must prepare ourselves."
Brynjolf: "Then this is it. We do this for Gallus and for the Guild."
Karliah: "He's here and he hasn't seen us yet. Brynjolf, watch the door."
Brynjolf: "Aye, lass. Nothing's getting by me."
Karliah: "Climb down that ledge and see if you can..."
Mercer: "Karliah, when will you learn you can't get the drop on me?"
Mercer: "Karliah, I'll deal with you after I rid myself of your irksome companions. In the meantime, perhaps you and Brynjolf should get better acquainted."
Brynjolf: "What's... what's happening... I can't stop myself."
Karliah: "Damn you, Mercer! Fight it, Brynjolf... he's taken control of you!"
Brynjolf: "I'm sorry lass, I... I can't..."
Karliah: "Damn! This place is coming down! Quick, get the Skeleton Key and the Eye and lets get out of here!"
Brynjolf: "No luck there, lass. Something must have fallen on the other side of the door because it isn't moving!"
Karliah: "We have to find another way out of here before the place fills with water!"
===Under New Management===
Brynjolf: "Look, I've never been good at these things, so I'm just going to keep it short. Being Guild Master means more than just getting a cut of all the loot, it's about being a leader and keeping this rabble in order. With that in mind, I propose that the position of Guild Master should be . Delvin?"
Delvin: "Agreed."
Brynjolf: "Vex?"
Vex: "Sure, why not."
Brynjolf: "Karliah?"
Karliah: "Absolutely."
Brynjolf: "Everyone is in agreement, so all I can do now is name Guild Master and wish you good fortune and long life. Now everyone get back to work."
==Trivia==
*He is voiced by Robin Atkin Downes.
*Upon entering Riften, if the quest "A Cornered Rat" is active, a Khajiit assassin will follow the Dragonborn, making stealing the ring and framing Brand-Shei without anyone knowing impossible.
*When in combat, he will say, "So, it's to the pain then?" This is similar to dialogue from The Princess Bride during the confrontation between Westley and Humperdinck.
*Unlike the Dark Brotherhood quests, where one has a choice to join or kill Astrid, the Dragonborn is expected to become a thief and complete the Thieves Guild storyline. There is no alternative questline. Because Brynjolf is necessary for the Thieves Guild storyline, he is not only marked as essential, but he is also invulnerable to damage should he be attacked. Using the console to make him non essential does not change this. The only way to kill him is to use the console to set his essential value to 0 and then also use the console to damage him to death. This will destroy the Thieves' Guild questline, however. Brynjolf is no longer invulnerable to damage after the "Under New Management" quest is complete, but he is still essential.
*To bypass the Thieves Guild questline entirely, the Dragonborn can continue the main questline where he or she is sent to talk to Brynjolf, but without talking to him (and being required to frame an innocent man for the information needed to find Esbern). This is accomplished simply by going to the Bee and Barb and speaking to Keerava the barmaid to continue the quest "A Cornered Rat."
*Brynjolf says something different depending on how many septims the Dragonborn is holding:
**If the Dragonborn has little money, he says, "Running a little light in the pockets, lad/lass?" Likewise, if the Dragonborn has an abundance of septims, Brynjolf says, "Never done an honest day's work in your life for all that coin you're carrying. Eh, lad/lass?"
*He will use his "Never done an honest day's work" line and claim to be able to tell such things about people, even if the Dragonborn has done plenty of honest work.
*When given Gallus's journal, Brynjolf is able to quickly read the Falmer text without the accompanying translation notes from Enthir.
*He can be exploited as an extra follower. When Karliah introduces the Dragonborn to Nightingale Hall, she will enter it herself. Brynjolf, however, is scripted to follow the Dragonborn into the hall. As long as the Dragonborn does not enter Nightingale Hall, Brynjolf will follow and fight, however he will not sneak and will only repeat two lines of dialogue, (with the exception of in-combat dialogue).
*He has slightly different dialogue in a few places if the Dragonborn is the leader of the Dark Brotherhood. When asking him how to handle collecting the debts' during "Taking Care of Business," he will say not to kill them mentioning that "This isn't the Dark Brotherhood, we do things differently here." Normally he would say that it is "bad for business."
*For an unknown reason he has left his satchel in the market in Riften.
*Unlike most Nords, who speak with a Scandinavian-sounding accent, Brynjolf speaks with more of a Scottish accent. This is most easily noticed when he addresses the Dragonborn as "lad" or "lass." This is also implied in Irkngthand when he says "We can take the high road or the low road" a reference to the song "The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond."
*If one wishes to avoid Brynjolf the first time they enter Riften, thus not having the "Listen to Brynjolf's scheme" misc. quest in the quest log, come in through the meadery (thus also avoiding Maul and his automated Thieves Guild dialogue) and as soon as in the city, begin using the Forge at the The Scorched Hammer. It does not matter if anything is made, but as things still happen around the Dragonborn when using Smithing equipment, Brynjolf will approach the Dragonborn and speak his opening line two to four times before wandering away to his stall and beginning to tout his Falmer Blood Elixir, where it will then be safe to stop using the forge. Talking to someone will not have the same effect; he will wait until the conversation is exited and then force dialogue, thus starting the Thieves Guild questline.
*If Sapphire is attacked and killed while she is talking to Shadr, even while sneaking and undetected, no one will care except for Maul and Brynjolf, who will find and attack the Dragonborn, even though they are hidden. Since Maul is essential (but can still be downed) and Brynjolf is invulnerable to all attacks, this will result in an endless fight. If one desires to kill Sapphire, it is best to wait until she enters the Bee and Barb, where she can be killed with a sneak attack.
*If dialogue is interrupted when he is trying to speak to the Dragonborn, he will angrily say, "I can take a hint lad/lass. Come talk to me when you're ready to get your hands dirty." This will give the "Listen to Brynjolf's scheme" miscellaneous quest.
*Brynjolf seems to like children, as children the Dragonborn has adopted living in Honeyside may comment about him giving them treats and promising to teach them "neat things" when they grow older.
==Bugs==
Click to see the list of bugs encountered
* Brynjolf may get stuck in his stall surrounded by people after he tells the Dragonborn to meet him in The Ragged Flagon after planting the ring. He will never be able to get to the tavern, preventing completion of the entry quest.
** The easiest way to fix this glitch is to open the console and type clearquestaliases TG00SP. This will remove the bugged script from all characters including him. He should then walk down to the Ragged Flagon.
** This can be gotten around simply by going to the Ragged Flagon, bringing up the console with the tilde key, and then typing player.placeatme 0001B07D. This will summon him and allow the quest to progress.
** Another solution is to open the console and to click on Brynjolf (it shows his ID) when in town next to him; close the console, go to the Ragged Flagon, reopen the console, and type moveto player. This will summon him and allow the quest to progress.
* When Brynjolf tells The Dragonborn to follow him, he will sometimes appear on top of the Bee and Barb.
**Solution: He will come down and talk to the Dragonborn if he or she gets as close as possible to him.
* Upon donning the Nightingale Armor and heading to the Dwemer Ruins to stop Mercer from obtaining The Eyes of the Falmer, the Dragonborn may acquire both Brynjolf and Karliah as permanent companions. The process for doing this starts by talking to Karliah and having her follow. After them drawing a weapon and proceeding up the stairs, eventually both Brynjolf and Karliah will sheathe their weapons, indicating they have stopped following. At this point, they should keep being told to follow, and every time the Dragonborn moves, a weapon should be drawn. Eventually, they will move past the scripted area to quit following, gaining the Dragonborn two permanent Nightingale followers.
* If Brynjolf and Karliah are permanent companions, making them wait outside could possibly result in the disappearance of either or both of them. This is due to a scripted behavior where Karliah and Brynjolf will attempt to follow if one gets too far ahead of them. This can be avoided by taking them into any building and having them wait there instead as they are limited by the dimensions of the area they are in.
* Brynjolf may disappear completely from the game. He will not show up at the Ratway, or the Riften marketplace.
*After planting Madesi's ring on Brand-Shei, Brynjolf will approach the Dragonborn and start a dialogue. Talking to Brynjolf first may result in bugs, which can be avoided by waiting for Brynjolf to approach and start the conversation.
*If planting the ring is not successfully done, the game could permanently bug and the quest will never be finished. However, a couple more quests in the quest chain (up through "Loud and Clear") can be completed.
*If doing both quests "A Cornered Rat" and "Taking Care of Business" at the same time, Brynjolf may be trapped outside.
**This can be corrected by assaulting the townsfolk that are around Brynjolf and going to jail before getting killed. After being released from jail, Brynjolf should be followed to Mercer.
*After the Dragonborn becomes Guildmaster, the only dialogue Brynjolf offers is the "Not now lad/lass" quote. This is a bug, as there are scripted lines in the game for him to say to the Dragonborn after becoming Guildmaster.
**These "hidden" lines include, "Hello lad/lass! How are things?" and "It's good to see you, lad/lass." There normally would be dialogue options for the Dragonborn to talk to Brynjolf, such as inquiring about how the Guild is doing as well as checking in on the profits, with both options having unique dialogue of Brynjolf saying how great the guild is doing now as well as how proud he is of the new Guildmaster.
*After completing "Blindsighted," Brynjolf can occasionally be found repeatedly entering and exiting the door between the Ragged Flagon and the Cistern.
==Appearances==
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de:Brynjolf (Skyrim)
es:Brynjolf (Skyrim)
fr:Brynjolf
it:Brynjolf
pl:Brynjolf (Skyrim)
ru:Бриньольф (персонаж)
Category:Skyrim: Essential Characters
Category:Skyrim: Riften Characters
Category:Skyrim: Thieves Guild Members
Category:Skyrim: Quest Givers