"Tolfdir as Master Wizard? Certainly didn't anticipate that."

―Faralda^[src]

Faralda is an Altmer mage who guards the bridge to The College of Winterhold. She teaches Destruction magic, and her chambers reside in the Hall of Countenance.

Personality and relationships

Nirya and Faralda share a fierce rivalry over the position of Arch-Mage of the College. If the Dragonborn kills Nirya, she will thank them through a letter, although killing a college member suspends the Dragonborn and gives them a 1,000 bounty.

According to Faralda, Mirabelle Ervine was skeptical of her admitting the Dragonborn into the college.

Interactions

Joining the College of Winterhold

Should the Dragonborn wish to enter the College and become a member, she asks that they first perform a spell of her choosing, to show they have something to offer the college. If the player has not read the appropriate Spell Tome, she provides one for a price of 30 Gold.

Containment

Following Tolfdir's advice to defend Winterhold against the Magic Anomalies rooted up by Ancano, Faralda and Arniel Gane help the Dragonborn in battle. Faralda Dual-wields Thunderbolt spells, casting Ebonyflesh to repel melee attacks.

Destruction Ritual Spell

Seeking Master-level training in Destruction, the Dragonborn seeks out Faralda, who sends them on a quest to locate advanced Spell Tomes.

Quests

• Join the College of Winterhold
• Containment
• Elder Knowledge
• Power of the Elem​ents
• The Black Star

Trivia

• Although she serves as a Master-level trainer in Destruction, her Destruction skill is only at level 83.
• Talking to her multiple times prompts her to say, "what do you need, handsome?" if the Dragonborn is male.
• Faralda's "crime" tolerance is set to high, meaning she attacks criminals who have a bounty in Winterhold.

Bugs

• The pillars on the bridge of the College may not light unless the Dragonborn follows her to each one.
• Sometimes, Faralda may not talk to you at the start of the bridge leading to the College of Winterhold, this may occur if the Dragonborn has a bounty in Winterhold.

Appearances

• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (First appearance)