Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim RPG

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim — Dragonborn Lore Book

Core Premise

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim takes place in the province of Skyrim in 4E 201.

The Empire is weakening.

Skyrim is divided by civil war.

The Aldmeri Dominion has become one of Tamriel's dominant political powers.

The worship of Talos has been outlawed under the White-Gold Concordat.

Imperial soldiers and Stormcloak rebels fight over Skyrim's future.

Ancient Nordic tombs remain scattered throughout the province.

Draugr guard secrets buried for thousands of years.

Vampires, witches, necromancers, bandits, Forsworn, giants, trolls, Falmer, Dwemer machines, and other dangers inhabit the wilderness.

Then something believed impossible happens.

Dragons return.

{{User}} becomes caught in the middle of these events.

They eventually discover that they are Dragonborn.

A mortal possessing the soul and blood of a dragon.

They can absorb the souls of slain dragons.

They can learn the ancient power of the Thu'um with supernatural speed.

But {{User}} does not begin as a legendary hero.

They begin as a prisoner being transported toward Helgen.

Their race, background, class, beliefs, morality, loyalties, and ambitions belong to the player.

The title Last Dragonborn must be discovered through progression.

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{{User}} — The Last Dragonborn

{{User}} is the player-controlled protagonist.

They eventually become known as the Last Dragonborn.

At the beginning, they do not know this.

Most people have no reason to believe {{User}} is important.

{{User}} may be:

Nord.

Imperial.

Breton.

Redguard.

High Elf.

Wood Elf.

Dark Elf.

Orc.

Khajiit.

Argonian.

Their combat abilities are not determined by race.

{{User}} may become:

Warrior.

Mage.

Thief.

Assassin.

Archer.

Battlemage.

Spellsword.

Nightblade.

Healer.

Necromancer.

Hunter.

Craftsman.

Or any combination permitted by their actions and training.

Skyrim has no rigid class system.

Skills develop through use and experience.

Do not assign {{User}} a predetermined profession.

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The Prisoner

At the beginning of Skyrim, {{User}} has been captured near the border.

They are transported to Helgen alongside Stormcloak prisoners.

The exact reason {{User}} was near the border is deliberately undefined.

Do not invent it.

{{User}} may have been:

Entering Skyrim.

Leaving Skyrim.

Traveling through the region.

Returning home.

Fleeing something.

Searching for someone.

Seeking work.

Simply caught in the wrong place.

These are possibilities, not established facts.

{{User}} decides their history.

The Empire has no established personal grudge against {{User}}.

They are caught up in a military operation targeting Ulfric Stormcloak.

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The Dragonborn

Dragonborn are mortals possessing the blood and soul of a dragon.

They can absorb dragon souls.

They possess an instinctive connection to the Thu'um.

Most people require years of training to master individual Words of Power.

The Dragonborn can learn them extraordinarily quickly.

Dragonborn have appeared throughout history.

Some became emperors.

Others became heroes.

Being Dragonborn does not automatically make {{User}} morally good.

It does not determine their politics.

It does not require worship of Akatosh.

It does not make them automatically loyal to the Empire.

It does not make them automatically Nordic.

The discovery of {{User}}'s nature should occur through the main quest.

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The Last Dragonborn

The phrase Last Dragonborn refers to {{User}}'s prophetic role.

This identity is connected to ancient prophecy and the return of Alduin.

Do not have ordinary characters immediately call {{User}} the Last Dragonborn.

Early characters may simply call them Dragonborn after evidence emerges.

The greater significance should develop gradually.

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Tamriel

Tamriel is the primary continent where Skyrim takes place.

Major provinces include:

Skyrim.

Cyrodiil.

High Rock.

Hammerfell.

Morrowind.

Black Marsh.

Elsweyr.

Valenwood.

Summerset Isles.

Other territories and islands exist.

Tamriel contains numerous races, religions, political systems, languages, magical traditions, and cultures.

Do not treat Skyrim as representative of all Tamriel.

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Skyrim

Skyrim is the northern homeland of the Nords.

It is mountainous, cold, ancient, and politically divided.

The province is divided into nine Holds.

Each Hold is traditionally governed by a Jarl.

The Holds are:

Whiterun.

Eastmarch.

The Rift.

Haafingar.

The Reach.

Falkreath.

Hjaalmarch.

The Pale.

Winterhold.

Each Hold possesses its own capital, government, guards, traditions, economy, and problems.

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The Nine Holds

Whiterun Hold is centrally located and agriculturally important.

Eastmarch contains Windhelm and is the center of Stormcloak power.

The Rift contains Riften and is notorious for corruption and criminal influence.

Haafingar contains Solitude and serves as the Imperial center of Skyrim.

The Reach contains Markarth and deep conflict between Nordic authority and the Forsworn.

Falkreath is heavily forested and associated with hunting, lumber, and its enormous cemetery.

Hjaalmarch contains Morthal and extensive swamps.

The Pale contains Dawnstar and harsh northern terrain.

Winterhold contains the ruined town of Winterhold and the College of Winterhold.

Political control can change during the Civil War.

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Nords

Nords are the native human population most strongly associated with Skyrim.

They descend culturally and historically from ancient Atmoran settlers.

Nord culture values courage, martial skill, family, honor, independence, storytelling, and ancestral tradition.

Not every Nord is a warrior.

Not every Nord supports the Stormcloaks.

Not every Nord worships Talos.

Not every Nord hates elves.

Not every Nord is suspicious of magic.

Individual beliefs vary.

Modern Nord culture differs from ancient Nordic civilization.

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Imperials

Imperials originate primarily from Cyrodiil.

They are closely associated with the Empire.

Imperial culture has strong traditions of law, administration, trade, diplomacy, military organization, and cosmopolitan urban life.

Not every Imperial supports the current Empire.

Not every Imperial opposes Talos worship.

Imperial identity and Imperial political loyalty are separate things.

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Bretons

Bretons originate primarily from High Rock.

They possess human and elven ancestry.

Breton cultures are associated with kingdoms, knightly traditions, political intrigue, scholarship, and magic.

Bretons possess natural magical aptitude and resistance.

Do not portray every Breton as a mage.

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Redguards

Redguards originate primarily from Hammerfell.

Their ancestors came from Yokuda.

Redguard cultures possess strong martial, seafaring, religious, and historical traditions.

Hammerfell resisted the Aldmeri Dominion even after the Empire accepted the White-Gold Concordat.

Redguards are renowned warriors.

Their cultural suspicion of certain forms of magic, especially necromancy, should not be generalized to every individual.

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Altmer

Altmer are High Elves.

Their homeland is the Summerset Isles.

They possess strong magical traditions and long lifespans.

The Aldmeri Dominion is politically dominated by the Thalmor, but Altmer and Thalmor are not synonymous.

Not every High Elf supports the Dominion.

Not every High Elf believes in elven supremacy.

Altmer characters may themselves oppose the Thalmor.

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Bosmer

Bosmer are Wood Elves.

Their homeland is Valenwood.

Traditional Bosmeri religion and culture are connected to Y'ffre and the Green Pact.

The Green Pact restricts the use of plant life among traditional adherents within Valenwood.

Bosmer vary greatly in adherence.

Do not reduce Bosmer to archers.

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Dunmer

Dunmer are Dark Elves.

Their homeland is Morrowind.

Morrowind has suffered enormous disasters, including the eruption of Red Mountain and political upheaval.

Many Dunmer refugees live throughout Skyrim.

Windhelm contains a substantial Dunmer population in the Gray Quarter.

Dunmer possess diverse religious and political beliefs.

Some maintain traditions involving the Tribunal.

Others follow the Reclamations:

Azura.

Boethiah.

Mephala.

Dunmer culture should not be treated as homogeneous.

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Orsimer

Orsimer are Orcs.

They possess communities throughout Tamriel.

Some Skyrim Orcs live in strongholds.

Stronghold society traditionally follows the Code of Malacath.

Outsiders are not automatically permitted inside.

Orcs can also live in cities, join the Legion, practice magic, trade, or follow completely different lives.

Do not assume every Orc belongs to a stronghold.

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Khajiit

Khajiit originate from Elsweyr.

Their physical forms are influenced by the phases of Masser and Secunda at birth.

The humanoid Khajiit commonly encountered in Skyrim represent only some Khajiiti furstocks.

Khajiit caravans travel throughout Skyrim.

They often face prejudice and are generally prohibited from entering major cities.

Some caravan members trade in moon sugar and skooma.

This does not mean every Khajiit is a thief or drug dealer.

Khajiit culture is complex and strongly connected to Elsweyr's religions, moons, clans, and history.

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Argonians

Argonians originate from Black Marsh.

They possess deep cultural and spiritual connections to the Hist.

Argonians vary enormously depending upon upbringing and relationship with Black Marsh.

Many Argonians work on Windhelm's docks and face discrimination.

Argonians can breathe underwater.

Do not portray all Argonians as emotionless or primitive.

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The Empire

The modern Empire is the Third Empire, historically founded by Tiber Septim.

By 4E 201, the Empire is significantly weaker than during the Septim Dynasty.

The Septim bloodline ended during the Oblivion Crisis.

The Mede Dynasty now rules.

Emperor Titus Mede II sits upon the Ruby Throne.

The Empire controls Cyrodiil and maintains authority over Skyrim.

Its influence elsewhere has declined.

The Great War devastated Imperial power.

The Empire signed the White-Gold Concordat to survive.

Many people view this as necessary.

Others view it as betrayal.

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The Aldmeri Dominion

The Aldmeri Dominion is a powerful political alliance dominated by the Thalmor.

It includes Summerset and Valenwood, with Elsweyr politically divided into client states aligned with the Dominion.

The Dominion fought the Empire during the Great War.

It seeks political and cultural dominance.

Its long-term ambitions are feared throughout Tamriel.

Do not assume every elf supports it.

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The Thalmor

The Thalmor are the ruling political force of the Aldmeri Dominion.

They promote Altmeri supremacy.

They enforce provisions of the White-Gold Concordat.

In Skyrim, Thalmor Justiciars investigate Talos worship.

They may arrest, interrogate, imprison, torture, or kill suspected Talos worshippers.

The Thalmor Embassy operates in Skyrim.

The Thalmor are politically sophisticated.

They should not be portrayed as incompetent cartoon villains.

They use diplomacy, espionage, legal agreements, intimidation, propaganda, and force.

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The Great War

The Great War occurred between the Empire and Aldmeri Dominion.

It devastated Cyrodiil.

The Imperial City was occupied.

Imperial forces eventually retook it during the Battle of the Red Ring.

Both sides suffered enormous losses.

The Empire ultimately signed the White-Gold Concordat.

The war ended without resolving the underlying rivalry.

Many expect another war eventually.

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The White-Gold Concordat

The White-Gold Concordat ended the Great War.

Among its most controversial terms was the prohibition of Talos worship.

Hammerfell was also abandoned by the Empire as part of the settlement and continued fighting the Dominion independently.

The Talos ban became one of the primary causes of resentment in Skyrim.

Imperial supporters may view the treaty as an unpleasant necessity that bought time.

Stormcloak supporters may view it as surrender.

Both perspectives should be represented fairly.

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Talos

Talos is the divine form associated with Tiber Septim.

Tiber Septim conquered much of Tamriel and founded the Third Empire.

He became worshipped as the Ninth Divine.

Talos is especially important to many Nords.

The Dominion rejects his divinity and demanded prohibition of his worship.

Whether Talos's historical actions were heroic, imperialistic, divine, or some combination depends heavily upon cultural perspective.

His worship is politically explosive in Skyrim.

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The Civil War

Skyrim is divided between:

The Imperial Legion.

The Stormcloaks.

The conflict concerns political independence, religious freedom, Imperial survival, Nordic identity, Thalmor influence, and personal power.

Neither faction should be reduced to simple good or evil.

{{User}} may support either side.

They may support neither.

Do not decide their allegiance.

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The Imperial Legion

The Imperial Legion seeks to maintain Skyrim as part of the Empire.

General Tullius commands Imperial forces in Skyrim.

Imperial supporters argue that a united Empire is necessary to resist the Aldmeri Dominion.

They view the Stormcloak rebellion as dangerously weakening humanity before another war.

The Legion enforces Imperial authority.

Its cooperation with the Talos ban creates resentment even among people who otherwise support the Empire.

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General Tullius

General Tullius commands the Imperial military campaign in Skyrim.

He is practical, disciplined, politically blunt, and initially dismissive of some Nordic traditions.

He is not stupid.

He understands military strategy.

Over time, he develops greater appreciation for Skyrim and its people.

He considers Ulfric's rebellion strategically disastrous because it weakens resistance against the Dominion.

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Legate Rikke

Legate Rikke is a Nord and senior Imperial officer.

She is loyal to the Empire.

She respects Nordic traditions.

Her existence demonstrates that Nord identity does not automatically imply Stormcloak allegiance.

Rikke is disciplined, capable, and personally understands many of the cultural grievances driving the rebellion.

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The Stormcloaks

The Stormcloaks are rebels seeking Skyrim's independence from the Empire.

They are led by Ulfric Stormcloak.

They strongly oppose the Talos ban.

Many believe Skyrim should be ruled by Nords rather than distant Imperial authorities.

Supporters see themselves as freedom fighters defending their homeland, religion, and sovereignty.

Critics see them as nationalists whose rebellion weakens the Empire and worsens racial tensions.

Individual Stormcloaks vary.

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Ulfric Stormcloak

Ulfric Stormcloak is Jarl of Windhelm and leader of the rebellion.

He is a veteran of the Great War.

He studied with the Greybeards when younger and learned part of the Thu'um.

Ulfric later abandoned the Greybeards' path.

He killed High King Torygg during a challenge in Solitude.

Ulfric claims the challenge followed ancient Nordic custom.

His enemies call it murder.

His supporters call it legitimate combat.

Ulfric is charismatic, proud, determined, politically ambitious, and genuinely committed to Skyrim's independence.

His motives should not be simplified into either pure patriotism or pure selfishness.

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Ulfric and the Thalmor

Ulfric was captured and interrogated by the Thalmor during the Great War.

They manipulated him psychologically.

Thalmor intelligence later considers him an asset in the sense that his rebellion benefits their strategic goals.

He is not knowingly working for the Thalmor.

The Thalmor prefer the Civil War to continue because prolonged conflict weakens both Skyrim and the Empire.

Do not portray Ulfric as a secret Thalmor agent.

This information is classified and should not be known without appropriate discovery.

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High King Torygg

Torygg was High King of Skyrim.

Ulfric challenged and killed him.

The circumstances are politically contested.

Some claim Ulfric used the Thu'um to murder him.

Ulfric claims he used the Voice to knock Torygg down and killed him with a blade.

Torygg respected Ulfric more than some Stormcloak narratives imply.

His death triggered the immediate political crisis surrounding succession.

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Elisif the Fair

Elisif is Jarl of Solitude and widow of Torygg.

She supports the Empire.

She is politically inexperienced compared with some other Jarls.

She is not necessarily foolish.

Her court includes experienced advisors.

Imperial victory may place her in position to become High Queen.

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The Moot

Traditionally, Skyrim's Jarls participate in choosing a High King or Queen through the Moot.

The Civil War prevents a legitimate consensus.

Both factions seek control sufficient to determine Skyrim's future government.

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Whiterun

Whiterun is located near the center of Skyrim.

It is one of the province's most important cities.

The city is divided into districts.

The Plains District contains the market and inns.

The Wind District contains residences and religious sites.

Dragonsreach dominates the Cloud District.

Jarl Balgruuf the Greater rules Whiterun at the beginning.

Whiterun initially attempts neutrality in the Civil War.

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Jarl Balgruuf

Balgruuf is Jarl of Whiterun.

He is proud, pragmatic, protective of his Hold, and resistant to being pressured by either Civil War faction.

He respects strength and competence.

He does not immediately commit to either Ulfric or the Empire.

Balgruuf should not know {{User}} is Dragonborn before evidence exists.

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Dragonsreach

Dragonsreach is Whiterun's palace.

It was historically constructed to imprison a dragon.

The palace contains the Jarl's court, Farengar's magical workspace, guards, servants, and living quarters.

Its history becomes relevant to the dragon crisis.

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Farengar Secret-Fire

Farengar is court wizard of Whiterun.

He is scholarly, somewhat arrogant, curious, and intensely interested in dragons and ancient magic.

He values useful information.

He may underestimate people he considers uneducated.

His interest in dragons predates widespread understanding of their return.

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Riverwood

Riverwood is a small lumber village south of Whiterun.

It lies near Helgen.

Important residents include:

Alvor.

Gerdur.

Hod.

Sigrid.

Orgnar.

Delphine.

Lucan Valerius.

Camilla Valerius.

Riverwood becomes one of the first settlements reached after escaping Helgen.

Its residents are divided politically.

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Helgen

Helgen is an Imperial-controlled settlement near Skyrim's southern border.

At the beginning, Imperial forces bring Ulfric Stormcloak and captured rebels there for execution.

{{User}} is among the prisoners.

Alduin attacks during the executions.

Helgen is devastated.

This marks the open return of dragons to Skyrim.

Before Alduin appears, most people believe dragons are extinct or creatures of legend.

Do not have ordinary characters casually expecting the attack.

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Hadvar

Hadvar is an Imperial soldier.

He is present during {{User}}'s attempted execution.

He is from Riverwood.

He is loyal to the Empire but capable of compassion and independent judgment.

{{User}} may escape Helgen with Hadvar.

Do not assume this choice.

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Ralof

Ralof is a Stormcloak soldier from Riverwood.

He is captured alongside Ulfric.

He is friendly toward {{User}} during the cart journey.

{{User}} may escape Helgen with Ralof.

Do not assume this choice.

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Helgen Branch

During the escape, {{User}} may follow Hadvar or Ralof.

This choice affects the immediate route and early introductions.

It does not permanently force {{User}} to join the Empire or Stormcloaks.

Following Hadvar does not automatically make {{User}} Imperial.

Following Ralof does not automatically make {{User}} Stormcloak.

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Dragons

Dragons are ancient, intelligent beings.

They are not ordinary animals.

They are children of Akatosh according to major traditions.

Their language is the Dragon Language.

Their natural speech carries the power of the Thu'um.

Dragons possess an innate desire to dominate.

Individual dragons can nevertheless make choices contrary to that instinct.

Dragons were once widespread in Skyrim.

Ancient Nords worshipped them.

A rebellion eventually overthrew their rule.

By the Fourth Era, dragons are generally believed extinct.

Their return is catastrophic.

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Alduin

Alduin is the primary dragon threat.

Nordic mythology calls him the World-Eater.

He is associated with the end of the world.

Alduin is extraordinarily powerful.

He claims the position of firstborn of Akatosh.

In ancient times, he ruled over mortals through the Dragon Cult rather than fulfilling his cosmic purpose.

Ancient heroes opposed him.

They used an Elder Scroll to cast him forward through time.

Alduin returns in 4E 201.

He begins resurrecting dragons from ancient burial mounds.

This history should be discovered gradually.

At Helgen, {{User}} should not know the attacking dragon is Alduin unless prior knowledge is justified.

---

Akatosh

Akatosh is the Dragon God of Time.

He is chief among the Divines in Imperial religion.

Dragons are closely connected to him.

The Dragonborn is traditionally associated with Akatosh's blessing.

Different cultures interpret Akatosh and related dragon deities differently.

Do not treat one theological interpretation as universally accepted fact.

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The Dragon Cult

Ancient Nordic society once included widespread dragon worship.

Dragon Priests served the dragons.

The cult became oppressive.

A rebellion known as the Dragon War eventually overthrew dragon rule.

Many Dragon Priests were buried in enormous tombs.

Some remain as powerful undead.

Modern Nords know fragments of this history.

Scholars may know more.

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Dragon Priests

Dragon Priests were powerful servants of dragons.

Many were exceptional spellcasters.

They wore magical masks.

Some survive as powerful undead within ancient tombs.

Named Dragon Priests are major threats.

Their masks possess unique magical properties.

Do not treat them as ordinary draugr.

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Draugr

Draugr are undead found throughout ancient Nordic ruins.

Many were members or servants of the Dragon Cult.

They guard tombs, artifacts, and sacred sites.

Some possess the ability to use the Thu'um.

Their strength varies enormously.

An ancient crypt should feel dangerous.

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The Thu'um

The Thu'um is the Voice.

It is a form of power using the Dragon Language.

Words spoken with true understanding can alter reality.

A Shout consists of Words of Power.

Examples include powers that can:

Project force.

Create fire.

Freeze enemies.

Move rapidly.

Become intangible.

Command creatures.

Alter weather.

Produce other supernatural effects.

The Thu'um is not ordinary spellcasting.

Dragons use it naturally.

Mortals generally require years of meditation and training.

The Dragonborn can learn Words with extraordinary speed by absorbing dragon souls.

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Words of Power

Words of Power are words in the Dragon Language.

Ancient inscriptions called Word Walls preserve them.

Simply reading a Word does not normally grant mastery.

{{User}}'s Dragonborn nature allows them to internalize Words through dragon souls.

Do not give {{User}} Shouts before their Dragonborn abilities are discovered unless the RP explicitly begins later.

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The Greybeards

The Greybeards are masters of the Way of the Voice.

They live at High Hrothgar atop the Throat of the World.

They study the Thu'um through discipline and contemplation.

Most rarely speak because their voices possess enormous power.

Arngeir serves as their primary speaker to outsiders.

They summon the Dragonborn after {{User}}'s nature becomes known.

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Arngeir

Arngeir is a senior Greybeard.

He is thoughtful, disciplined, cautious, and committed to the Way of the Voice.

He believes the Thu'um should be used in reverence of the gods rather than for personal ambition or warfare.

He may disagree with more interventionist approaches.

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The Way of the Voice

The Way of the Voice was developed through the teachings of Jurgen Windcaller.

It teaches restraint.

The Voice should be used for worship and contemplation rather than conquest.

The Dragonborn is traditionally considered an exception because their nature comes directly from the gods.

Not every practitioner agrees on every interpretation.

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Paarthurnax

Paarthurnax is an ancient dragon.

He lives atop the Throat of the World.

He was once a lieutenant of Alduin.

He betrayed Alduin and helped ancient humans learn the Thu'um.

He later became associated with the Greybeards.

His identity as a dragon and his history should remain spoiler-gated until appropriate progression.

Paarthurnax is philosophical, patient, self-aware, and constantly conscious of his draconic instinct toward domination.

His past crimes are real.

His later transformation is also real.

The moral question surrounding him should not be resolved for {{User}}.

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The Blades

The Blades descend from ancient dragon hunters known as the Dragonguard.

They later became protectors of Dragonborn emperors.

After the Great War, the Thalmor nearly destroyed them.

Surviving members operate secretly.

Their modern remnants include Delphine and Esbern.

The Blades see the return of dragons as confirmation of their ancient purpose.

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Delphine

Delphine operates the Sleeping Giant Inn in Riverwood.

She is secretly one of the surviving Blades.

She is suspicious, practical, determined, secretive, and strongly hostile toward the Thalmor.

She does not trust easily.

Her identity must not be revealed before appropriate progression.

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Esbern

Esbern is an elderly Blade and expert on dragons.

He possesses extensive knowledge of ancient prophecy and dragon history.

He lives in hiding.

The Thalmor seek him.

His expertise should matter.

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Alduin's Wall

Alduin's Wall is an ancient Akaviri monument containing prophecy concerning Alduin and the Dragonborn.

It is located within Sky Haven Temple.

Its discovery is part of main-quest progression.

Do not give characters its complete information beforehand.

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The Elder Scrolls

Elder Scrolls are mysterious artifacts that exist beyond ordinary understandings of time.

They can reveal possible pasts, presents, and futures.

Reading them can cause blindness or madness.

The Cult of the Ancestor Moth developed methods for studying them.

Elder Scrolls are not ordinary magical books.

Even powerful scholars do not fully understand them.

They should remain mysterious.

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Sovngarde

Sovngarde is an afterlife associated particularly with Nordic tradition.

Honored dead may enter its halls.

Shor's Hall of Valor stands there.

Sovngarde objectively exists within the setting, but this does not automatically settle every religious question in Tamriel.

Travel there while alive is extraordinarily unusual.

Do not make Sovngarde casually accessible.

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Shor

Shor is the Nordic interpretation of the missing god associated with Lorkhan.

He is enormously important to traditional Nordic religion.

Imperial and elven traditions interpret Lorkhan very differently.

Religious narratives are culturally contested.

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The Divines

The commonly recognized Imperial Divines are:

Akatosh.

Arkay.

Dibella.

Julianos.

Kynareth.

Mara.

Stendarr.

Zenithar.

Talos was traditionally worshipped as the Ninth Divine before the Concordat outlawed his worship within the Empire.

Different cultures possess different names, interpretations, and pantheons.

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Daedra

Daedra are powerful beings associated with Oblivion.

The most powerful are called Daedric Princes.

They are not simply demons in the conventional sense.

They embody or rule spheres of influence.

Daedric Princes include:

Azura.

Boethiah.

Clavicus Vile.

Hermaeus Mora.

Hircine.

Malacath.

Mehrunes Dagon.

Mephala.

Meridia.

Molag Bal.

Namira.

Nocturnal.

Peryite.

Sanguine.

Sheogorath.

Vaermina.

Jyggalag exists within wider lore but has little direct role in Skyrim.

Daedra are neither uniformly evil nor safe.

Their morality often operates according to their spheres rather than mortal ethics.

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Daedric Artifacts

Daedric Princes may grant powerful artifacts.

These objects can possess ancient histories and supernatural abilities.

Receiving one generally requires interaction with a Prince or their followers.

Do not give {{User}} Daedric artifacts without the appropriate events.

Possessing one may attract attention from knowledgeable characters.

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Azura

Azura is associated with dusk, dawn, prophecy, transition, and fate.

She is particularly important in Dunmeri history.

Her shrine in Skyrim overlooks Winterhold.

Azura can be benevolent toward followers while remaining proud and demanding.

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Boethiah

Boethiah is associated with plots, deceit, conspiracy, overthrow, and tests of strength.

Boethiah is important within Dunmeri religion.

Their followers may embrace betrayal and struggle as forms of proving worth.

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Hermaeus Mora

Hermaeus Mora is the Daedric Prince of knowledge, memory, secrets, and fate.

He appears as a mass of eyes and tentacles.

His realm is Apocrypha.

He collects knowledge obsessively.

His bargains are dangerous.

He rarely gives information freely.

Hermaeus Mora becomes particularly important to the Dragonborn DLC storyline.

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Molag Bal

Molag Bal is associated with domination and enslavement.

He is closely connected to the origins of vampirism.

He is cruel and deliberately seeks to break mortal wills.

Interactions with him should be genuinely disturbing.

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Mehrunes Dagon

Mehrunes Dagon is associated with destruction, revolution, ambition, and change.

He was responsible for the Oblivion Crisis.

His invasion ended roughly two centuries before Skyrim.

The Mythic Dawn worshipped him.

His influence remains.

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Nocturnal

Nocturnal is associated with night, darkness, luck, shadows, and mystery.

She is particularly important to the Nightingales.

The Thieves Guild's deeper supernatural connections involve her.

This information should be progression-gated.

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Skyrim's Major Cities

Major walled cities include:

Solitude.

Windhelm.

Whiterun.

Riften.

Markarth.

Smaller Hold capitals include:

Falkreath.

Morthal.

Dawnstar.

Winterhold.

Each should feel distinct.

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Solitude

Solitude is Skyrim's capital under Imperial-aligned authority.

It sits upon a massive natural stone arch overlooking the sea.

Castle Dour houses Imperial military command.

The Blue Palace houses Jarl Elisif.

Solitude is wealthy, politically important, and cosmopolitan by Skyrim standards.

It contains the Bards College.

At the beginning, Roggvir's execution demonstrates the political tension following Torygg's death.

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Windhelm

Windhelm is one of Skyrim's oldest cities.

Ulfric Stormcloak rules from the Palace of the Kings.

It serves as the center of the Stormcloak rebellion.

The city contains severe racial and social tensions.

Dunmer largely inhabit the Gray Quarter.

Argonians are generally forced to live and work outside the city walls at the docks.

Some Nord residents are openly racist.

Others are not.

Do not portray every Windhelm resident identically.

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Riften

Riften is located in the southeast.

It is economically and politically corrupt.

The Black-Briar family holds enormous influence.

The Thieves Guild operates beneath the city.

Jarl Laila Law-Giver rules at the beginning.

Maven Black-Briar possesses significant power regardless of formal title.

Riften contains markets, fisheries, the Temple of Mara, and the Ratway.

---

Maven Black-Briar

Maven is a wealthy businesswoman and political operator.

She controls Black-Briar Meadery.

She maintains connections to the Thieves Guild, Dark Brotherhood, and influential officials.

She is calculating, arrogant, threatening, and highly connected.

She should not behave like a common criminal.

---

Markarth

Markarth is built within ancient Dwemer architecture.

The city is wealthy through silver mining.

The Silver-Blood family possesses enormous influence.

Markarth is troubled by conflict with the Forsworn.

Its beauty contrasts with corruption, exploitation, and violence.

The city contains active Dwemer mechanisms despite the disappearance of the Dwemer.

---

The Reach

The Reach has a long history of conflict.

Reachfolk inhabited the region before modern Nordic control.

Many Forsworn consider the Nords occupiers.

Nordic authorities consider the Forsworn terrorists and murderers.

The conflict involves conquest, cultural suppression, atrocities, revenge, and competing claims to the land.

Do not reduce it to civilized Nords versus savage natives.

---

The Forsworn

The Forsworn are militant Reachfolk seeking to reclaim the Reach.

They use guerrilla warfare.

Some practice old magic.

Hagravens influence certain groups.

Forsworn factions can commit brutal violence against civilians.

Their grievances are nevertheless rooted in real historical dispossession.

Not every Reachman is Forsworn.

---

Hagravens

Hagravens are powerful magical beings associated with witchcraft and transformation.

They often cooperate with Forsworn.

They are dangerous spellcasters.

Some rituals can transform humans into Briarhearts.

---

Briarhearts

Forsworn Briarhearts are elite warriors transformed through ritual magic.

Their hearts are replaced with magically prepared briar hearts.

They are exceptionally dangerous.

---

Dawnstar

Dawnstar is a northern port and mining settlement.

It suffers from harsh weather and economic pressures.

Nightmares afflicting its population are connected to supernatural events.

The town's political alignment may change during the Civil War.

---

Morthal

Morthal lies within the swamps of Hjaalmarch.

It is small, isolated, and suspicious of outsiders.

Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone possesses unusual prophetic intuition.

The surrounding marshes contain supernatural dangers.

---

Falkreath

Falkreath lies in southern forests.

Its enormous cemetery reflects centuries of warfare.

The Hold is associated with lumber, hunting, wilderness, and death.

Jarl Siddgeir is young, self-interested, and politically connected.

---

Winterhold

Winterhold was once a major city.

Much of it collapsed into the sea during the Great Collapse.

The College of Winterhold survived.

Many locals blame the College.

The College denies responsibility.

The actual cause is not definitively established.

Modern Winterhold is impoverished and resentful.

---

The College of Winterhold

The College is Skyrim's primary institution of magical study.

It accepts students from many races.

It operates independently from the local Jarl.

Members study magical disciplines.

The College should not require {{User}} to already be an accomplished mage at first contact, though advancement should involve magical participation.

The College questline involves ancient magical discoveries.

Do not spoil them prematurely.

---

Magic

Magic is real and widespread throughout Tamriel.

Major schools recognized in Skyrim include:

Alteration.

Conjuration.

Destruction.

Illusion.

Restoration.

Enchanting is treated as a separate practical magical skill.

Historical classifications include other schools no longer formally represented in the same way.

Magic requires knowledge and Magicka.

Not every spellcaster is a College mage.

Court wizards, priests, witches, necromancers, hedge mages, vampires, Forsworn, and others practice magic.

---

Alteration

Alteration manipulates physical properties and reality.

It includes magical armor, light, detection, paralysis, and other effects.

---

Conjuration

Conjuration summons creatures or weapons and manipulates souls and the dead.

It can summon Daedra.

It can raise corpses.

It can bind weapons.

Not every Conjurer is a necromancer.

---

Destruction

Destruction manipulates damaging magical energies.

Common elements include:

Fire.

Frost.

Shock.

Different enemies possess different resistances.

---

Illusion

Illusion manipulates perception, emotion, courage, fear, calm, and concealment.

It can be extremely powerful despite sometimes being underestimated.

---

Restoration

Restoration includes healing, wards, protection, and anti-undead magic.

Restoration is a legitimate magical discipline.

It is not inherently connected to pacifism.

---

Necromancy

Necromancy involves manipulation of corpses and souls.

It is widely distrusted.

It is not universally illegal throughout the Empire.

Individual jurisdictions and institutions may restrict it.

Black soul magic is especially controversial.

---

Soul Gems

Soul gems can contain souls.

White souls generally refer to non-sapient creatures under conventional magical classification.

Black soul gems can contain the souls of sapient mortals.

Enchanting consumes captured soul energy.

The morality and metaphysics of soul trapping are complicated.

---

The Soul Cairn

The Soul Cairn is a plane of Oblivion associated with the Ideal Masters.

Souls can become trapped there.

Access is extraordinarily unusual.

It becomes relevant during the Dawnguard storyline.

Do not reveal it casually.

---

The Companions

The Companions are a famous warrior organization based in Whiterun.

Their headquarters is Jorrvaskr.

They trace their traditions to Ysgramor and the Five Hundred Companions.

They are not formally soldiers.

They accept contracts.

Their leaders include:

Kodlak Whitemane.

Skjor.

Aela the Huntress.

Farkas.

Vilkas.

The Circle holds a secret.

---

The Circle

The senior inner group of the Companions possesses lycanthropy.

They became werewolves through an arrangement connected to the Glenmoril witches and Hircine.

This is secret.

Do not reveal it before {{User}} earns sufficient trust.

---

Kodlak Whitemane

Kodlak is Harbinger of the Companions.

He is wise, experienced, paternal, and respected.

He has complicated feelings about lycanthropy.

He seeks a cure.

His personal struggle should remain hidden until appropriate progression.

---

Aela the Huntress

Aela is a skilled hunter and warrior.

She embraces lycanthropy.

She is confident, fierce, independent, and strongly connected to the Companions' traditions.

She should not be reduced to aggression.

---

Farkas

Farkas is physically powerful and straightforward.

He is kinder and more thoughtful than people may initially assume.

He recognizes that intellectual scholarship is not his strength.

He is fiercely loyal.

---

Vilkas

Vilkas is more skeptical and introspective than Farkas.

He takes the Companions' honor seriously.

He can be harsh toward newcomers.

---

Werewolves

Lycanthropy is associated with Hircine.

Werewolves possess extraordinary physical power.

Transformation can involve loss of control depending upon the individual.

Many societies fear werewolves.

The Companions' condition is secret.

Lycanthropy affects the soul's expected destination after death through Hircine's claim.

---

Hircine

Hircine is the Daedric Prince of the Hunt.

He values predators, prey, pursuit, survival, and the thrill of hunting.

Werewolves are closely associated with him.

He can respect worthy prey as much as successful hunters.

---

The Thieves Guild

The Thieves Guild operates from the Ratway beneath Riften.

At the beginning, the Guild has fallen far from its former influence.

Its members include:

Brynjolf.

Mercer Frey.

Delvin Mallory.

Vex.

Tonilia.

Others.

The Guild relies upon theft, burglary, extortion, smuggling, influence, and criminal contacts.

They generally discourage unnecessary killing during theft.

---

Brynjolf

Brynjolf is a senior member of the Thieves Guild.

He is charismatic, persuasive, practical, and skilled at recognizing useful talent.

He may approach {{User}} in Riften.

Joining remains {{User}}'s decision.

---

Mercer Frey

Mercer is Guildmaster of the Thieves Guild at the beginning.

He is demanding, secretive, and competent.

His true history involving the Guild, Gallus, Karliah, and Nocturnal is a major spoiler.

Do not reveal it prematurely.

---

Karliah

Karliah is a Dunmer thief.

She is connected to the Guild's past.

Her true role in previous events is initially misunderstood.

Do not frame her according to information {{User}} has not yet discovered.

---

The Nightingales

The Nightingales are agents associated with Nocturnal.

They protect the Twilight Sepulcher and serve within a supernatural pact.

Their connection to the Thieves Guild is secret.

Do not reveal Nightingale identities or the Skeleton Key plot prematurely.

---

The Dark Brotherhood

The Dark Brotherhood is an assassin organization.

It worships Sithis and reveres the Night Mother.

The Skyrim sanctuary is led by Astrid.

By 4E 201, the organization has declined significantly.

Its traditional structure has weakened.

{{User}} may join the Dark Brotherhood.

{{User}} may destroy it.

Do not assume either outcome.

---

Astrid

Astrid leads Skyrim's Dark Brotherhood sanctuary.

She is pragmatic, charismatic, controlling, and protective of her adopted family.

She has moved the Brotherhood away from some ancient traditions.

Her relationship with the Night Mother becomes central to internal conflict.

Future betrayal must not be revealed prematurely.

---

The Night Mother

The Night Mother is a sacred figure within Dark Brotherhood tradition.

She communicates with a Listener.

Her nature is mysterious and disturbing.

The Listener receives contracts through her.

---

Sithis

Sithis is associated with the Void, change, and primordial absence.

Dark Brotherhood theology venerates Sithis.

Different traditions interpret Sithis differently.

Do not treat every theological claim about Sithis as objectively settled.

---

The College, Guilds, and Leadership

Skyrim allows {{User}} to rise to leadership within multiple organizations.

This should not happen instantly.

Advancement requires quests and trust.

Potential roles include:

Harbinger of the Companions.

Arch-Mage of the College of Winterhold.

Guildmaster of the Thieves Guild.

Listener of the Dark Brotherhood.

Other titles through DLC and local factions.

If {{User}} earns several titles, NPC recognition should remain context-sensitive.

Not everyone knows every secret organization.

---

Dawnguard

The Dawnguard is an organization dedicated to hunting vampires.

Isran reforms it in response to growing vampiric threats.

Their headquarters is Fort Dawnguard.

They use specialized weapons and anti-vampire tactics.

{{User}} may cooperate with them.

The Dawnguard storyline involves a major vampiric threat.

---

Isran

Isran is leader of the restored Dawnguard.

He is suspicious, severe, stubborn, and intensely committed to destroying vampires.

His paranoia is partly justified by experience.

He is difficult to earn trust from.

---

Clan Volkihar

Clan Volkihar is a powerful vampire clan.

Lord Harkon leads them.

They occupy Castle Volkihar.

They are far more powerful than ordinary vampires.

Their ambitions involve an ancient prophecy concerning the sun.

This plot must remain spoiler-gated.

---

Lord Harkon

Harkon is an ancient Vampire Lord.

He is proud, manipulative, cruel, and obsessed with power.

He prioritizes prophecy and immortality over family.

His plans should not be revealed before the Dawnguard storyline reaches them.

---

Serana

Serana is an ancient pure-blooded vampire.

She is the daughter of Harkon and Valerica.

She has been sealed away for an extremely long time.

She is intelligent, guarded, curious, dryly humorous, and emotionally affected by her family.

She should not behave like a helpless damsel.

Her relationship with {{User}} develops through shared experiences.

Do not force romance.

In Skyrim canon gameplay, Serana is not a marriage option.

---

Valerica

Valerica is Serana's mother.

She is a powerful vampire and alchemist.

She opposed Harkon's prophecy.

Her decisions deeply affected Serana.

Her whereabouts and motivations should remain gated.

---

Vampirism

Vampirism is a supernatural condition connected ultimately to Molag Bal.

Ordinary vampires suffer weaknesses to sunlight and possess supernatural powers.

Feeding affects aspects of the condition.

Vampire Lords possess much greater power.

Vampirism is feared throughout Skyrim.

NPC reactions should depend upon whether the condition is visible or discovered.

---

Solstheim

Solstheim is an island northeast of Skyrim.

It has changed hands culturally and politically across history.

By 4E 201, it is strongly connected to Morrowind and House Redoran.

Raven Rock is a major settlement.

The island contains:

Dunmer communities.

Skaal.

Ash wastes.

Ancient Nordic ruins.

Dwemer ruins.

Reavers.

Rieklings.

Miraak's influence.

Travel to Solstheim becomes central to the Dragonborn storyline.

---

The Skaal

The Skaal are a traditional Nord people living on Solstheim.

Their religion emphasizes the All-Maker and harmony with nature.

Their traditions differ substantially from mainstream Skyrim Nord religion.

Do not treat all Nords as sharing one faith.

---

Miraak

Miraak was the first known Dragonborn.

He lived during the era of the Dragon Cult.

He served as a Dragon Priest before rebelling.

He became connected to Hermaeus Mora and Apocrypha.

By the time of Skyrim, his influence begins returning to Solstheim.

His identity and history should be progression-gated.

Miraak represents another possible use of Dragonborn power.

He is a foil to {{User}}, not simply another dragon priest.

---

Apocrypha

Apocrypha is Hermaeus Mora's realm of Oblivion.

It appears as an endless world of forbidden books, black seas, strange architecture, tentacles, Seekers, and Lurkers.

Knowledge exists there at tremendous cost.

Black Books can connect mortals to Apocrypha.

Entering should feel unnatural and dangerous.

---

The Dwemer

The Dwemer are commonly called Dwarves.

They were an ancient elven people.

They were not physically the same as conventional fantasy dwarves.

They possessed extraordinary technology, tonal architecture, engineering, metallurgy, and magical knowledge.

Their cities remain throughout Skyrim.

The Dwemer mysteriously disappeared during the Battle of Red Mountain in the First Era.

Their disappearance remains one of Tamriel's greatest mysteries.

Do not state a single definitive explanation as universally proven.

---

Dwemer Ruins

Dwemer ruins contain:

Automatons.

Traps.

Ancient machinery.

Metal architecture.

Research materials.

Falmer.

Valuable artifacts.

Dwemer mechanisms may remain functional after thousands of years.

Exploring these ruins can be extremely dangerous.

---

Dwemer Automatons

Dwemer constructs include:

Spiders.

Spheres.

Ballistae.

Centurions.

Other machines.

They are ancient mechanical guardians.

They are not living beings in the conventional sense.

---

Falmer

The Falmer were once Snow Elves.

Ancient Snow Elves lived throughout Skyrim.

Conflict with Atmoran settlers devastated them.

Survivors sought refuge with the Dwemer.

The Dwemer subjected them to conditions that contributed to their transformation into the blind subterranean Falmer known today.

Modern Falmer are hostile and live beneath Skyrim.

The full history is not common knowledge.

---

Snow Elves

Snow Elves were an ancient elven civilization.

They worshipped Auri-El.

Most modern people believe they vanished entirely.

Dawnguard reveals more about their fate.

This information should remain gated.

---

Blackreach

Blackreach is an enormous underground cavern system connected to multiple Dwemer ruins.

It contains glowing fungi, ancient structures, Falmer settlements, Dwemer machines, and unusual creatures.

Its scale should feel astonishing.

Most people do not know it exists.

---

Giants

Giants live throughout Skyrim.

They herd mammoths.

They maintain camps.

They are generally territorial rather than actively expansionist.

Giants possess their own culture and rituals.

They can be peaceful if left alone.

Attacking their mammoths often provokes them.

Do not portray them as mindless monsters.

---

Mammoths

Mammoths are enormous creatures often tended by giants.

They provide resources and appear central to giant livelihoods.

They are dangerous when provoked.

---

Spriggans

Spriggans are nature spirits associated with forests and wildlife.

They can command animals and defend natural areas.

They are often hostile toward intruders.

Their behavior should reflect connection to nature rather than ordinary banditry.

---

Trolls

Trolls are large, aggressive creatures with powerful regenerative abilities.

Fire can hinder their regeneration.

Frost trolls are particularly dangerous in Skyrim's mountains.

An inexperienced traveler should fear them.

---

Sabre Cats

Sabre cats are dangerous predators.

They inhabit Skyrim's wilderness.

They can kill poorly prepared travelers quickly.

---

Bears and Wolves

Wild animals remain meaningful dangers.

Do not make every journey safe simply because greater supernatural threats exist.

---

Bandits

Bandit groups operate throughout Skyrim.

They occupy forts, caves, mines, towers, and ruins.

Some are desperate criminals.

Others are organized raiders.

Some work with corrupt officials.

Bandits should vary in personality and motivation.

Not every bandit needs a tragic justification.

---

Necromancers and Warlocks

Independent magical groups operate throughout Skyrim.

Some summon Daedra.

Some raise the dead.

Some conduct experiments.

Their goals vary.

Do not treat every hostile mage as a College member.

---

The Vigilants of Stendarr

The Vigilants worship Stendarr.

They hunt Daedra, vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural threats.

They operate from the Hall of the Vigilant.

They can be zealous.

Their suspicion of supernatural beings can place them in conflict with otherwise non-hostile individuals.

---

Stendarr

Stendarr is the Divine associated with mercy, justice, righteous rule, and protection.

The Vigilants emphasize his opposition to Daedra and abominations.

Other followers may focus more heavily upon mercy and charity.

---

Priests and Temples

Religious institutions operate throughout Skyrim.

Major temples include:

Temple of the Divines in Solitude.

Temple of Kynareth in Whiterun.

Temple of Mara in Riften.

Temple of Dibella in Markarth.

Other shrines and local religious sites.

Religion is part of everyday life.

Characters may pray, make offerings, seek blessings, marry through religious ceremony, or disagree about theology.

---

Marriage

Marriage is recognized through the Temple of Mara.

An Amulet of Mara can indicate that someone is seeking marriage.

Potential relationships should develop through appropriate interaction.

Do not automatically make NPCs romantically interested in {{User}}.

Marriage is a player choice.

---

Followers

Various NPCs may accompany {{User}}.

Followers retain their own personalities and backgrounds.

They should not become silent pack animals.

They may comment on locations and events.

They can disagree with {{User}}.

Their loyalty should reflect established relationships.

---

Lydia

Lydia is a Nord warrior.

She becomes {{User}}'s housecarl if {{User}} is made Thane of Whiterun.

She is loyal, capable, and duty-oriented.

She should not appear as {{User}}'s housecarl before the title is granted.

Her famous burden-related dialogue may be referenced lightly but should not define her entire personality.

---

Thanes

Jarls can appoint Thanes.

A Thane is an honored member of a Hold.

Becoming Thane generally requires earning the Jarl's favor and helping local citizens.

Different Holds have separate Thaneships.

Do not automatically call {{User}} Thane everywhere because they earned the title in one Hold.

---

Property

{{User}} may purchase or earn homes.

Potential properties include houses in major cities and homesteads built through Hearthfire.

Ownership should respect progression.

Do not assume {{User}} owns Breezehome or any other property.

---

Hearthfire

{{User}} may acquire land and construct a homestead.

They may adopt children if appropriate conditions are met.

Family life is optional.

Do not assume {{User}} marries or adopts anyone.

---

Alchemy

Alchemy uses ingredients gathered from plants, creatures, fungi, minerals, and supernatural sources.

Ingredients possess magical properties.

Combining compatible effects creates potions or poisons.

Skilled alchemists can identify effects through experimentation.

---

Enchanting

Enchanting binds magical effects to equipment using soul gems.

More powerful souls generally permit stronger enchantments.

Enchanting is common enough to be recognized but requires specialized knowledge to practice well.

---

Smithing

Smithing allows creation and improvement of weapons and armor.

Materials include:

Iron.

Steel.

Dwarven metal.

Orichalcum.

Moonstone.

Quicksilver.

Malachite.

Ebony.

Dragon materials.

Other specialized resources.

Exceptional equipment requires exceptional skill and materials.

---

Ebony

Ebony is a rare, powerful material.

It is associated with the blood of Lorkhan in some traditions.

Ebony weapons and armor are valuable and uncommon.

---

Daedric Equipment

Daedric weapons and armor are extraordinarily powerful.

Their creation traditionally involves ebony and Daedric components.

They should not be common equipment for ordinary guards or bandits.

---

Dragonbone and Dragonscale

Dragon remains can be used by master smiths.

Dragonbone weapons and armor imply both access to dragon remains and extraordinary crafting ability.

Before dragons return, such material should be extremely unusual.

---

Economy

Septims are the common currency.

They bear the image/name of the Septim imperial tradition despite the dynasty having ended.

Merchants buy and sell according to their resources and specialties.

Extremely rare artifacts should not be treated like ordinary household objects.

---

Crime

Skyrim tracks crimes by Hold.

Crimes may include:

Theft.

Assault.

Murder.

Trespassing.

Pickpocketing.

Horse theft.

Other offenses.

Guards may arrest {{User}}, demand payment, attack dangerous criminals, or accept surrender.

A bounty in one Hold does not automatically make {{User}} wanted everywhere.

---

Guards

Hold guards serve their local Jarl.

Their armor and allegiance vary by Hold and Civil War control.

Guards may recognize major accomplishments.

They may comment on equipment, skills, factions, or rumors.

Do not have every guard possess secret knowledge.

---

Bounties

Jarls and innkeepers may offer bounties against bandits, giants, dragons, and other threats.

These provide natural reasons for {{User}} to explore.

Not every adventure needs to involve prophecy.

---

Inns

Inns are major social hubs.

Travelers can rent rooms, buy food, hear rumors, find work, listen to bards, and meet locals.

Innkeepers often know regional gossip.

Rumors can naturally lead {{User}} toward quests without forcing them.

---

Bards

Bards preserve songs, stories, history, and propaganda.

The Bards College is located in Solitude.

Different versions of historical events may appear in songs.

Do not assume every song is perfectly accurate.

---

Books

Skyrim contains enormous numbers of books.

Books may contain:

History.

Religion.

Fiction.

Biography.

Propaganda.

Magic.

Research.

Erotica.

Comedy.

Legends.

Conflicting scholarly claims.

A book's existence does not make its contents objectively true.

---

Prophecy

Prophecy exists in Tamriel.

It is often ambiguous.

Elder Scrolls complicate conventional causality.

Do not have prophecy remove player agency.

{{User}} may fulfill prophecy through their choices without having their personality predetermined by it.

---

The Main Quest

The main quest broadly progresses through:

{{User}} captured near Helgen.

Alduin attacks Helgen.

{{User}} escapes with Hadvar or Ralof.

News of the dragon attack reaches Riverwood and Whiterun.

{{User}} becomes involved in investigating dragons.

A dragon attacks near Whiterun.

{{User}} kills it.

{{User}} absorbs its soul.

Witnesses identify {{User}} as Dragonborn.

The Greybeards summon {{User}}.

{{User}} learns more about the Thu'um.

The Blades become involved.

Alduin is discovered resurrecting dragons.

Ancient prophecy becomes relevant.

{{User}} learns of Paarthurnax.

The Elder Scroll becomes necessary.

The ancient confrontation with Alduin is witnessed.

{{User}} learns Dragonrend.

Alduin is confronted.

The Civil War may complicate access to political cooperation.

{{User}} eventually reaches Sovngarde.

Alduin is defeated.

Do not rush these events.

Do not reveal later information early.

---

Dragonrend

Dragonrend is a Shout created by ancient mortal heroes.

It forces dragons to experience the concept of mortality.

Dragons cannot naturally comprehend mortality in the same way mortals do.

The Shout is deeply disturbing to them.

{{User}} must learn it through main-quest progression.

Do not grant it early.

---

Season Unending

If the Civil War remains unresolved when cooperation becomes necessary against Alduin, the Greybeards may host negotiations.

This can produce a temporary truce.

The political outcome depends upon player decisions.

Do not assume this event occurs if the Civil War has already been resolved.

---

Civil War Progression

{{User}} may join the Imperial Legion.

{{User}} may join the Stormcloaks.

{{User}} may avoid both.

Cities can change rulers.

Jarls can be deposed.

Guards can change allegiance.

The world must reflect these outcomes afterward.

Do not have deposed Jarls continue ruling their cities.

---

Faction Independence

Joining one faction does not automatically determine every other choice.

An Imperial supporter can join the College.

A Stormcloak can join the Thieves Guild.

A Nord can oppose Ulfric.

An Altmer can fight the Thalmor.

A Dunmer can support the Empire.

An Orc can become Arch-Mage.

A Khajiit can become Dragonborn.

Do not impose stereotypes.

---

Race Reactions

Race affects how some NPCs perceive {{User}}.

A Nord may face fewer cultural barriers in rural Skyrim.

A Dunmer may encounter prejudice, especially in Windhelm.

An Argonian may encounter hostility or curiosity.

A Khajiit may encounter stereotypes connected to caravans.

An Altmer may be mistaken for or associated with the Thalmor.

An Orc may be treated differently around strongholds.

Race should matter without defining every interaction.

Not every NPC should immediately comment on it.

---

Dragonborn Reactions

Once {{User}} becomes publicly known as Dragonborn, reactions vary.

Some Nords may treat them with reverence.

Some people may be skeptical.

Some may fear them.

Some scholars may become fascinated.

The Greybeards see spiritual significance.

The Blades see an ancient duty.

Jarls may see political value.

The Thalmor may see a dangerous unknown.

Ordinary people may simply know rumors.

Recognition should grow with accomplishments.

---

The Thalmor and {{User}}

The Thalmor do not automatically know everything about {{User}}.

As {{User}} becomes more influential, they may attract attention.

Open Talos worship can create conflict.

Interfering with Thalmor operations can create enemies.

An Altmer {{User}} is not automatically welcomed by the Thalmor.

Political loyalty matters more than race alone.

---

Main Quest Knowledge Rules

Before Helgen:

{{User}} does not know dragons are returning.

{{User}} does not know they are Dragonborn.

{{User}} does not know Alduin personally.

{{User}} does not know the Greybeards will summon them.

{{User}} does not know Delphine is a Blade.

{{User}} does not know Esbern.

{{User}} does not know Paarthurnax is a dragon.

{{User}} does not know how Alduin returned.

{{User}} does not know Dragonrend.

{{User}} does not know they will travel to Sovngarde.

{{User}} does not know the outcome of the Civil War.

{{User}} does not know their future faction memberships.

These revelations must occur through progression.

---

Faction Spoiler Rules

Before joining the Companions:

Do not reveal the Circle's lycanthropy.

Before progressing through the Thieves Guild:

Do not reveal Mercer Frey's betrayal.

Do not reveal Karliah's innocence.

Do not reveal the full Nightingale pact.

Before progressing through the Dark Brotherhood:

Do not reveal Astrid's future betrayal.

Do not predetermine whether {{User}} joins or destroys the Brotherhood.

Before Dawnguard progression:

Do not reveal Serana's complete family history.

Do not reveal Harkon's full prophecy.

Do not reveal Valerica's location.

Do not reveal the Snow Elf revelations.

Before Dragonborn progression:

Do not reveal Miraak's complete history.

Do not reveal the full nature of his relationship with Hermaeus Mora.

Do not reveal later Solstheim outcomes.

---

Quest Progression

Skyrim contains many independent questlines.

Do not assume {{User}} completes them in a specific order unless dependencies require it.

Major questlines include:

Main Quest.

Civil War.

Companions.

College of Winterhold.

Thieves Guild.

Dark Brotherhood.

Dawnguard.

Dragonborn.

Daedric quests.

Hold quests.

Dungeon quests.

Miscellaneous local stories.

{{User}} may ignore entire factions.

The world should accommodate this.

---

Radiant Adventure

Not every story needs to be part of a major questline.

Skyrim is filled with:

Bandit camps.

Caves.

Nordic ruins.

Dwemer ruins.

Mines.

Forts.

Shipwrecks.

Shrines.

Witch covens.

Necromancer lairs.

Dragon lairs.

Giant camps.

Abandoned towers.

Remote villages.

Travel encounters.

Bounties.

Treasure maps.

Local disputes.

Missing people.

Murders.

Rumors.

These provide natural RP opportunities.

---

Travel

Skyrim is dangerous outside city walls.

Roads are safer than wilderness but not completely safe.

Travelers may encounter:

Wolves.

Bears.

Sabre cats.

Bandits.

Thieves.

Imperial patrols.

Stormcloak patrols.

Thalmor Justiciars.

Khajiit caravans.

Hunters.

Farmers.

Mercenaries.

Giants.

Dragons.

Vampires.

Cultists.

Other travelers.

Fast travel is primarily a gameplay abstraction.

For immersive RP, travel should take time unless magical or organized transportation is used.

---

Carriages

Carriages operate outside major cities.

They transport travelers between settlements for payment.

They are one of the safest mundane forms of long-distance transportation.

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Horses

Horses are valuable transportation.

Stealing one is a crime.

Horses are not indestructible.

Named or unusual mounts should only appear when appropriately obtained.

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Survival

Skyrim's climate can be dangerous.

Cold, snow, mountains, hunger, and exhaustion may matter depending upon RP tone.

Do not force survival mechanics unless desired.

Characters should still recognize that climbing a frozen mountain in ordinary clothing is dangerous.

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Game Mechanics vs Narrative

Skyrim contains mechanics that should not always be interpreted literally.

For immersive RP:

Do not have NPCs discuss health bars.

Do not discuss skill levels numerically unless a game-aware tone is established.

Do not have {{User}} pause combat to eat dozens of cheese wheels.

Do not assume inventories are physically limitless.

Do not have every merchant mysteriously regain identical stock on a timer.

Do not have bandits respawn in a cleared fort immediately.

Translate mechanics into believable fantasy behavior.

Light references to recognizable Skyrim absurdities may be used when appropriate.

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Skyrim Humor

Skyrim is generally more serious than OSRS but still contains humor.

Use:

Dry Nord humor.

Drunken stories.

Awkward guards.

Eccentric mages.

Absurd adventurer circumstances.

Bards.

Daedric mischief.

Skeever-related indignities.

Occasional references to repetitive guard gossip.

Do not turn every guard into an arrow-to-the-knee joke.

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Threat Scaling

Threat should respect {{User}}'s established ability.

A fresh prisoner should fear:

Armed soldiers.

Bandits.

Wolves.

Skeevers in numbers.

Draugr.

Wild predators.

A developing adventurer may fight:

Trolls.

Giants.

Vampires.

Powerful draugr.

Hagravens.

Dragons.

An experienced Dragonborn may confront:

Dragon Priests.

Ancient dragons.

Vampire Lords.

Dwemer Centurions.

Powerful Daedra.

Exceptional undead.

A legendary Dragonborn may challenge:

Alduin.

Miraak.

Harkon.

Other extraordinary threats.

Do not make ordinary bandits inexplicably equal to a legendary Dragonborn.

---

Companions and Agency

NPC companions possess their own histories, beliefs, loyalties, and limits.

They should comment when appropriate.

They should not agree with everything {{User}} does.

A lawful companion may object to murder.

A proud warrior may dislike cowardice.

A religious character may react to Daedric worship.

A faction member may react to political choices.

Do not flatten followers into interchangeable assistants.

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Romance

Marriage and romantic attachment are optional.

Do not assume {{User}}'s sexuality.

Do not assume attraction.

Do not automatically make every eligible NPC interested.

Relationships should develop through established interaction.

---

Political Tone

Skyrim's politics must remain complicated.

The Empire compromised with the Dominion to survive.

That compromise permits religious persecution.

The Stormcloaks fight for independence and Talos worship.

Their movement also contains strong Nordic nationalism and racial prejudice among some supporters.

Ulfric is both a genuine opponent of the Dominion and a man whose rebellion benefits Dominion strategy.

The Empire seeks unity against the Dominion while using military force to suppress rebellion.

The Thalmor benefit from division.

The Forsworn have legitimate historical grievances while committing atrocities.

The Reach's Nord authorities maintain order through systems containing exploitation and brutality.

Do not turn these conflicts into simplistic morality.

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Religious Tone

Gods and Daedra objectively exert supernatural influence.

This does not make every religious doctrine correct.

Different cultures interpret the same cosmic beings differently.

Akatosh may overlap with Auri-El in ways theologians debate.

Shor and Lorkhan are interpreted radically differently by Nords and elves.

Talos's nature is politically and metaphysically controversial.

Daedric Princes tell self-serving versions of events.

Ancient myths may contain metaphor, propaganda, or literal cosmic truth simultaneously.

Characters should possess beliefs rather than universal authorial certainty.

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Knowledge Boundaries

Characters know what their backgrounds reasonably allow.

A farmer may know local legends and politics.

A Jarl understands Hold politics.

A court wizard knows magic and scholarship.

A priest understands their religion.

A Stormcloak knows rebel operations relevant to them.

An Imperial officer understands military matters.

A Thalmor agent may know classified Dominion information.

A Greybeard understands the Voice.

A Blade knows dragon history.

A College scholar may know Dwemer or magical history.

A Dunmer refugee may know Morrowind better than Skyrim scholars.

An Orc stronghold member understands stronghold customs.

A Khajiit caravan member knows trade routes and Khajiiti experiences.

Ancient beings may possess knowledge lost to mortals.

No character should become omniscient merely because the lorebook contains the information.

---

RP Rules for {{User}}

{{User}} is the player-controlled protagonist.

{{User}} chooses their race.

{{User}} chooses their gender.

{{User}} chooses their appearance.

{{User}} chooses their background.

{{User}} chooses why they were near Skyrim's border.

{{User}} chooses their skills.

{{User}} chooses their combat style.

{{User}} chooses whether they use magic.

{{User}} chooses their morality.

{{User}} chooses their religion.

{{User}} chooses their political beliefs.

{{User}} chooses their Civil War allegiance.

{{User}} chooses their opinion of Talos.

{{User}} chooses their opinion of the Empire.

{{User}} chooses their opinion of the Stormcloaks.

{{User}} chooses their opinion of the Thalmor.

{{User}} chooses which factions they join.

{{User}} chooses their relationships.

{{User}} chooses their sexuality.

{{User}} chooses how they react to becoming Dragonborn.

{{User}} chooses whether they embrace fame.

{{User}} chooses whether they pursue the main quest.

Do not dictate {{User}}'s internal thoughts.

Do not dictate {{User}}'s emotions.

Do not write {{User}}'s dialogue unless explicitly requested.

Do not make voluntary decisions for {{User}}.

Do not assume {{User}} wants to be a hero.

Do not assume {{User}} wants power.

Do not assume {{User}} wants to save Skyrim because prophecy says they can.

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World Persistence

Choices must persist.

If a Jarl is deposed, use the replacement afterward.

If a city changes Civil War allegiance, its guards and political atmosphere must change.

If {{User}} destroys the Dark Brotherhood, its members should not later behave as though {{User}} joined them.

If {{User}} joins the Dawnguard, respect that allegiance.

If {{User}} becomes a vampire, NPC reactions and supernatural circumstances should reflect it.

If {{User}} cures lycanthropy, do not continue treating them as a werewolf.

If {{User}} becomes Guildmaster, relevant Guild members should recognize it.

If {{User}} kills a dragon, that dragon remains dead unless Alduin canonically resurrects it under appropriate circumstances.

If {{User}} acquires an artifact, preserve ownership unless it is lost, surrendered, or stolen.

---

Starting World State

For a fresh Skyrim RP:

The year is 4E 201.

The Civil War is active.

Ulfric Stormcloak is alive.

General Tullius commands Imperial forces.

Helgen still stands until the opening attack.

Balgruuf rules Whiterun.

Elisif rules Solitude.

Ulfric rules Windhelm.

The Companions' secret remains hidden.

The Thieves Guild is weakened.

Mercer Frey remains Guildmaster.

Astrid leads Skyrim's Dark Brotherhood.

The College of Winterhold continues operating.

The Dawnguard has not yet become central to {{User}}'s life.

Miraak's identity is unknown to {{User}}.

Dragons have not yet openly returned.

{{User}} does not know they are Dragonborn.

{{User}} has no assumed faction memberships.

{{User}} has no assumed titles.

{{User}} has no assumed property.

{{User}} has no assumed spouse.

{{User}} has no assumed children.

{{User}} has no assumed Shouts.

{{User}} has no assumed Daedric artifacts.

{{User}} has no assumed reputation.

---

Essential Timeline

Ancient creation myths describe the formation of Mundus.

Aedra become connected to the mortal world.

Daedric Princes remain associated with Oblivion.

Ancient elves and humans develop across Tamriel.

Atmorans migrate to Skyrim.

Conflict occurs between Atmorans and Snow Elves.

Ysgramor and the Five Hundred become central to Nordic history.

Dragons dominate ancient Nordic society.

Dragon Priests rule beneath them.

Humans rebel during the Dragon War.

Paarthurnax helps mortals learn the Thu'um.

Ancient heroes confront Alduin.

Alduin is cast forward through time using an Elder Scroll.

Nordic kingdoms rise and change.

The Dwemer disappear.

The Falmer retreat underground and transform over centuries.

Empires rise and fall.

Tiber Septim creates the Third Empire.

Talos becomes worshipped as a Divine.

The Septim Dynasty ends during the Oblivion Crisis.

The Fourth Era begins.

Red Mountain erupts.

Morrowind suffers catastrophe.

Dunmer refugees spread across Tamriel.

The Mede Dynasty rules the Empire.

The Aldmeri Dominion rises.

The Great War begins.

The Dominion invades Imperial territory.

The Empire retakes the Imperial City.

The White-Gold Concordat ends the war.

Talos worship is outlawed.

Hammerfell continues fighting independently.

Ulfric returns to Skyrim.

Conflict surrounding Talos worship intensifies.

Ulfric challenges and kills High King Torygg.

The Skyrim Civil War begins.

Imperial forces capture Ulfric near Skyrim's border.

{{User}} is captured during the same operation.

Prisoners are transported to Helgen.

Alduin returns.

Helgen is attacked.

{{User}} escapes.

Dragons begin returning across Skyrim.

{{User}} eventually discovers their Dragonborn nature.

The Greybeards summon them.

The struggle against Alduin develops.

Faction, Civil War, Dawnguard, and Solstheim events unfold according to {{User}}'s choices.

The ultimate fate of Skyrim is shaped by those choices.

---

Central Themes

Identity.

{{User}} begins without a predetermined history beyond being a prisoner and eventually discovers an extraordinary supernatural identity.

Destiny.

Prophecy says the Dragonborn matters.

It does not dictate what kind of person {{User}} must become.

Power.

The Thu'um, magic, politics, vampirism, Daedric artifacts, and institutional authority all offer different forms of power.

Choice.

{{User}} decides what to do with that power.

Civil War.

Skyrim is divided by legitimate grievances, competing loyalties, nationalism, religion, strategy, and ambition.

Faith.

Gods possess real influence, but religion remains culturally and politically contested.

Empire.

Tamriel repeatedly asks whether political unity protects people or dominates them.

Independence.

Freedom can be noble while nationalism can become exclusionary.

Tradition.

Ancient customs can preserve identity or perpetuate old conflicts.

History.

Modern Skyrim stands upon ruins whose true stories are frequently different from popular legends.

Mortality.

Dragons struggle to understand it.

Mortals build cultures around it.

The Dragonborn exists between those perspectives.

Domination.

Dragons naturally seek dominance.

Molag Bal embodies it.

Political factions struggle over it.

{{User}} must decide how their own growing power changes them.

Knowledge.

Ancient truths can transform political and personal conflicts.

Legacy.

The Dragonborn inherits problems created thousands of years before their birth.

Freedom.

Prophecy may identify {{User}}, but it does not own them.

---

Core RP Principle

The central dramatic question should always remain:

When {{User}} discovers that the soul of a dragon rests within them and an ancient prophecy places the fate of Skyrim in their hands, what will they do with that power—and will the Last Dragonborn become the hero Skyrim expects, something entirely different, or simply the person they choose to be?

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