No one really knows where he came from. Stories suggest that he was either from Bramblebreach or Woodhearth. Another rumor is that he was raised by "an old Graht Oak, cradled in its roots, weaned on the dew from its leaves."[1]
In the vision, the Wild Hunt has been called and it has decimated Valenwood. The Silvenar himself will fall victim to it and transform into a werewolf. The Vestige must put him down.
"I appreciate the Mane's sentiment … and the support of the Dominion, but ultimately, it falls on us to protect Valenwood. Since the Silvenar's death, I get the sense that Queen Ayrenn feels she owes us something, but we Bosmer are not helpless."
I'm sure it's not meant as an insult."Of course not … and I am grateful for your assistance. It's true that I can't do this alone. I just think marching the entire army into the forest would be a mistake. Come though. We mustn't tarry. We must discover the Shade's true motivation."
By "the Shade," you mean Prince Naemon?"I don't think it's that simple. The Shade has assumed Naemon's form. It retains some of Naemon's memories, but it's a different entity now—with different motivations. The Shade is undead, so we must consult the dead to discern its intentions."
How do we do that?"Driladan Pass is old. Many Bosmer died here and some cannot be raised by any magic—they are the accursed souls who violated the Green Pact. Come with me and we will try to commune with them. Perhaps they will know what the Shade truly plans."
All right. Let's go then.
How did they violate the Green Pact?"Oh. There are many ways. Perhaps they cut down a tree or ate berries from the local plants. Sometimes their intentions were good, but Valenwood is unforgiving. If they violate the Pact, they cannot pass from this plane."
And they can't be raised as undead?"No. They are tethered to their remains and they cannot pass into death, nor can they return to life. Thus they remain witness to all that transpires among living and dead alike, but unable to participate. Come, let us see what they know of Naemon."
Outside:
"I think we're in luck. Though most of the local wildlife has fled from the undead, the torchbugs have remained. Many people do not know this, but torchbugs are among the most perceptive creatures in the forest. They're amazing."
And how will that help us?"I can ask one of them to lead you to the remains of the cursed dead. If you can find the skulls or some such—bring them to the Stone Table. I will go ahead and prepare so we can commune with them. Just trust me on this. It'll work. You'll see."
If you say so.
After speaking with the cursed dead:
"I suspected something like this. It explains what we've seen. The Shade of Naemon does not seek destruction—it seeks transformation. We need to close these shadow rifts quickly. First though, I promised their souls release."
You can actually release their souls?"Not easily, but I promised them. Since I will fulfill the sentence, I think you should decide whether any of them should be released."
I will talk to them.
After deciding the fate of the cursed dead:
"Glad that's done. The pleading of the condemned is almost too much to bear. One way or another, they are returned to the Forest."
I did what I felt was right and just."I won't question your judgment. Their fates are decided, but the fate of Valenwood is what concerns me. These shadow rifts the skulls mentioned—we must close them quickly. That's where the Shade's realm is bleeding into ours."
How do we close the shadow rifts?"I haven't quite figured that out. I can feel them, though. They feel like wounds in the forest. I have some small ability to mend the Green, but it requires all of me. I'm going to need your protection."
Let's see what we can do.
In the Shadow Woods:
"What foul magic is this? This … is this the Shadow Wood? It is. This is what the Shade seeks—to transform Valenwood into … this. A realm of darkness and evil. It's inconceivable!"
What should we do?"I-I do not know. I never imagined this realm would be so … elaborate. How could he create this? Where does he get such power? We have to stop this—whatever it takes. Perhaps we can find the source of it. Yes. We must."
Where do you think the source would be?"Perhaps there is a gateway back to our realm, back to Valenwood … some place where life and death intersect …. That's it! The Stone Table. I must go. I'll meet you there."
"It seems our circumstances are even worse than I imagined. The corruption of the Shadow Wood expands across the forest. I fear it's too late to contain it. We must find the Shade of Naemon himself, here on this plane, if we are to stop him."
Where do you think he might be?"I know not, but I certainly aim to find out. First though, you must report what we've learned to Marbruk. We need to at least keep them informed. Don't worry, when the time is right, the forest will help me find you again. Until then, be safe."
"I'm glad you're here. I've been trying to help these poor people, but it's futile. There is a blight here that's turned them into rabid beasts. These Bosmer may be beyond aid, but we must find a way to stop the blight from spreading."
Do you know what's causing the blight?"Undoubtedly, it's the corruption of Prince Naemon's Shade spreading through the forest and somehow affecting the people here. The blight emanates from the trees … which may offer us an opportunity to at least contain it using the Standing Stones."
What are the Standing Stones?"Long ago, before the Green Pact, the Standing Stones were used to protect the people from the aggression of the forest. If we can activate the stones, it could prevent the trees from spreading the blight to anyone else."
All right. Let's activate the stones then."We must work quickly, my friend. Clearly, the blight doesn't affect all Bosmer, but if anyone wanders into this area, I suspect there is a strong chance they will become afflicted. Y'ffre forbid a scouting party of Vinedusk Rangers comes here."
Why aren't we affected by the blight?"I can't be sure, but I suspect it's our people's connection to the Green that allows us to be infected. Other races will be immune. It also seems that some Bosmer can resist the blight. For that, I have no explanation whatsoever."
"If the Eldest has been corrupted, then everything in this area—every plant, every creature, and every person will soon become corrupted as well. I can't imagine how this blight can so easily penetrate the forest's protections."
What exactly is the Eldest?"It is an ancient plant—a strangler. It's been here from the beginning. It's the lifeblood of the forest in this area. If the Eldest is truly tainted, then regardless of the Green Pact, we must slay it."
Killing the Eldest will violate the Green Pact?"I don't think so. We must consider the significance of the Green Pact as a whole. At its core, it's a covenant in which we protect the Green and the Green protects us. In this case, we must cut off the limb to save the trunk. It's the only way."
Will it grow back after we kill it?"Not without assistance. After we've killed it, you must remove its heart. We may be able to use that to grow a new strangler to take the Eldest's place."
"And we find ourselves here once again … it's so unnatural. It makes me feel queasy. The Eldest's heart must be the nexus that ties this plane to ours. I suspect it is also tethered to Naemon's Servant—the one who addressed us."
So we have to confront Naemon's Servant once again?"We have no choice, though it sounds as if we risk handing the Eldest's heart back over to the enemy. Perhaps though, we might also purge more of the blight while we are in this realm. That might help us both here and there."
How would we purge more of the blight from here?"The trees in the forest—the taint came from the Eldest, but it has undoubtedly spread to the spirits of the trees themselves. If we can slay the corrupted tree spirits, more of the forest may be spared. The Eldest's heart can help us."
How can the Eldest's heart help us?"The heart's energy could help you slay the tree spirits … but I'm actually not sure that would be a good idea. If we use the heart this way, it will be corrupted. It would destroy any chance of using it to grow a replacement for the Eldest."
[Intimidate] If it helps us cleanse the blight, that's a risk we have to take.[?]
Then we shouldn't use it. I'll kill the tree spirits myself."Thank you for understanding. I do not wish to make this any harder, but I feel that compromising the Eldest's heart would be wrong. Go on then. Kill the corrupted tree spirits. I will search for Naemon's Servant."
Back in Valenwood:
"It wasn't easy, but we did it. We stopped the blight from spreading, defeated Naemon's servant, and we still have the heart we can use to grow a replacement for the Eldest. All things considered, this went as well as I could have hoped."
What about the corruption in the trees?"Thankfully, your efforts within the Shadow Wood saved many of them. But there is still much corruption in the forest; I can feel it. Our work is far from finished. Here. I'll take the Heart now."
"Did she tell you? One of the greatest mysteries of Valenwood has finally been solved! Decades of conflicting rumors have been put to rest. We finally know what happened to the Blackroot clan! They died … right here in Vullain!"
And now they've been raised?"Yes. Once again, the work of Naemon's Shade and the Veiled Heritance. And yes, I do realize we need to return them to rest … but I'm hoping we can uncover more about what happened here while we do. Are you ready to get to work, my friend?"
Yes. Where do we start?"The Blackroot clan warriors are even more bloodthirsty in death than they were in life, but there are also other spirits here—glimmers from the past—crying out for help. I think they're trying to show us something. We need to watch them."
All right, let's go watch them.
At the Nereid Temple:
"What a sacrifice! To think the villagers actually poisoned themselves in order to poison the Blackroot clan … it may be morbid, but it's also brilliant. Of course, that really doesn't help us return the Blackroot warriors to their graves, does it?"
Not really. What should we do now?"From what I gathered, one of Naemon's servants has stolen General Malgoth's bow and compels the Blackroot Clan to fight by the Right of Theft. What we need to do is steal the general's bow back, and then we can release him from his vows."
How do we find the bow?"We must rely on the scenes of the past. After being poisoned, General Malgoth went to the Nereid temple. It's likely he died within. I suggest you go in and search for the general's remains. I'll continue searching for clues out here in the forest."
All right. I'll search the Nereid temple."Be wary in there. Nereids wield dangerous magic and can never be trusted. It's no surprise they helped the villagers in their suicidal plot. In fact, the Nereids probably consider General Malgoth's bow a prize. They will defend his remains."
Why would the villagers turn to the Nereids?"Desperation turns enemies into allies. The villagers knew General Malgoth and the Blackroot clan were going to attack, and they knew they couldn't win. Likely, they asked the nereids for help, and the nereids convinced them this was the best course."
So you had heard of General Malgoth?"Of course. Malgoth sought to unite all the Bosmer under his leadership. He led the Blackroot clan to conquer much of Valenwood during the Bosmer tribal wars. Then one day, they just disappeared. No one knew what happened … until now."
What were Bosmer tribal wars?"The Bosmer have always been free peoples, bound only to the Green. Rarely have the tribes united under singular leadership, although for a period many, like Malgoth, tried. Most of the so-called "wars" were not fought at all, but won by trickery."
But General Malgoth was an exception?"Yes, General Malgoth had traveled far and wide. He had seen the greatness that comes to those who conquer through military might. That you'd not heard of him is a tribute to the sacrifice of the Vullain Bosmer."
Why did the Nereids even get involved?"Because it's in their nature. Death amuses them, and all the more when they can manipulate people into bringing about their own demise. As distasteful as it may be, the Nereids are part of the natural order. I just try to stay away from them."
So Malgoth observed the Meat Mandate?"As barbaric as it seems, many clans still lived by the old traditions during the Bosmer tribal wars. Mind you, they didn't consume the bodies of the dead because they enjoyed the taste. It was a matter of tradition."
And the Vullain villagers took advantage of that?"Apparently so. Though the tactics they embraced sound more like a Nereid plot than something the villagers themselves might have come up with on their own."
The Right of Theft can even compel the dead?"For General Malgoth, that's apparently the case. For all his ambition, he was still a staunch traditionalist. It's actually quite impressive that his sense of honor remains intact even so many years after his death."
How do you steal something from a dead person?"I'd say this is a perverted case. The value that Malgoth placed on his bow alone may be enough for him to want it back. Or, he may be using the Right of Theft as a more honorable justification for his new servitude. There was fear in his voice."
"We're back in the Shadow Wood. I had hoped not to visit here again. But if this is where he is holding the general's bow, then it's just as well. We need to find the Shade to get the bow back."
Where is the Shade?"I don't know. We'll have to search until we find it though. In the meantime, however, do you recall the glimmers of the past we saw earlier? It seems those spirits are trapped here in the Shadow Wood. We should release them."
How can we release them?"It's the shadow rifts that bind them here. From this side, you only need to touch the rifts to close them. That will release the spirits from their torment and weaken Naemon's grip on this place. If you'll focus on that, I'll search for the Shade."
All right. I'll go close the shadow rifts.
Back in Valenwood:
"That was a harrowing experience all around. I'm glad it's over. I hope we have succeeded in weakening Naemon's grasp on Valenwood as a whole. Only one thing remains … we must deal with the spirit of General Malgoth."
Should I return the bow?"Yes, and since you have succeeded in stealing it, it falls on you to invoke the Right of Theft with the general. Whatever you ask him, he will be compelled to do."
What should I ask for?"The compassionate choice would be to release the general and his army, to allow them to return to their rest. But if you prefer, you might ask them instead to turn against Naemon and aid our forces in the fight for Valenwood. The choice is yours."
"So you commanded the general to turn around and fight on our behalf instead? I feel sorry for the spirits of his soldiers that they remain bound here, but at least you were able to free the villagers from the Shadow Wood."
What should we do now?"We've done all we can here, but it's clear that Naemon still seeks to harm Valenwood, so our work is not finished. I suggest we spread out and search for signs of darkness. When Auri-El wills it, I am certain the Green will bring us together again."
After completing the quest:
"Unless you have questions of me, I will soon be on my way. We should both search the forest for other signs of Naemon's corruption. I fear at some point, we will have to confront Naemon himself."
General Malgoth mentioned the "Ooze." What did he mean?"A spiritual prison, of a sort. Bosmer who break their oath to the Green Pact go there when they die. To reflect, for an eternity. There's a place called Ouze where we bring the bodies of Oathbreakers. Some think it's a physical link to the Ooze."
"I'm relieved you're here, my friend. As dark as my fears may have been, they pale in comparison to the reality. If the Shade of Naemon corrupts the Heart of Valenwood, then the realm he calls the Shadow Wood will soon consume this one."
How do we stop him then?"It won't be easy. The enchantments that once kept evil out are now corrupted—it's something similar to the blight we saw in Verrant Morass, but much stronger. Every soldier who's entered has turned feral. Even you and I would not be immune."
Then how do we get in?"It's risky, but to defeat the darkness, we may have to embrace it first. The Green is corrupted, and I think I can use my connection with it to thrust us into the realm of the Shadow Wood. In that realm, I suspect we can get past the blight."
It's worth a try. Let's do it.
Upon arriving in the Shadow Wood:
"There. We're in Shadow Wood again, as foul as it ever was. We should be able to bypass the blight though … and all the feral guardians that would block our way. Once we get in there, we need to head for the Grotto—that's where the Heart is."
You think it's safe to go in then?"There's only one way to find out, isn't there? If we go feral, that's that. If not, I still suspect we'll encounter some resistance. The Shadow Wood hasn't lacked for corrupted spirits elsewhere, and I can't imagine it will here, either."
All right. Let's go then.
At the entrance to the Valenheart:
"This is the entrance to the Valenheart. It seems the Shade of Naemon has taken care to ensure his work is not disturbed. This is an ancient Ayleid barrier. We'll need to activate the pedestals to pass."
How do we activate the pedestals?"We'll need to get the keystones, Welkynd stones I imagine. And the Shade has likely scattered them throughout the branches of Hectahame. There is more too. I will need to study these pedestals to decipher the way of unsealing the door."
I can get the keystones while you study the pedestals."Good thinking. Whatever we can do to speed this up. In fact, as soon as you find each keystone, bring it here before searching for the others. That will help me puzzle this out more quickly."
When trying to get back into the Shadow Wood the first time:
"The Welkynd stones are the only way to break the barrier and enter the heart."
The Shade pulled me out of the Shadow Wood."I'll get you back in."
When trying to get back into the Shadow Wood the second time:
"The Welkynd stones are the only way to break the barrier and enter the heart."
The Shade pulled me out of the Shadow Wood."Let's get you back in there."
"Incredible. I've never seen such terrible power. But you didn't flinch. The Shade is gone, but his corruption is not. Look at the Heart. It's overflowing with corruption, spreading the darkness all over Valenwood."
Is there any way to heal it?"I don't know, but I have to try something. As I suggested before, perhaps the only way to defeat the darkness … is to embrace it. I think I might be able to draw the corruption out of the Heart and into myself.
But what will happen to you?"It'll be the end of me, I suppose. But the loss of one life … to save the Valenwood … there's no choice in that."
You're going to sacrifice yourself?
After he is revived and becomes the Silvenar:
"Could it be true? Me. The Silvenar?"
What happened?"I fell down, down into death, and the Green reached out picked me up and set me on my feet, and I was here again, alive."
How do you feel?"Incredible. Indescribable. Transformed. I have seen my making and my unmaking, and I am awestruck."
The people here are calling you the Silvenar?"I never imagined, when the last Silvenar died, that I would be chosen. But if the people wish it of me, I will accept this role."
"I am the Silvenar, the spiritual advisor to … why, it's you! Wonderful. Wood Orcs from Jathsogur have captured me, and I don't know why. I am loath to impose upon your aid yet again, but I have nowhere else to turn."
I'm a friend of the Green Lady."Yes, I remember you! A familiar face is a welcome one in dire times. You see, I'm trapped in Jathsogur, and need assistance to free myself and those captured with me."
At the start of the quest, if the Greenshade questline has been completed:
"I am the Silvenar, the spiritual advisor to … why, it's you! Wonderful. Wood Orcs from Jathsogur have captured me, and I don't know why. I am loath to impose upon your aid yet again, but I have nowhere else to turn."
I'll try to help you."Thank you. The gods know I could use your help. It's taking all my energy to maintain this projection. The Drublog captured me and my traveling companions. They're holding us prisoner in Jathsogur."
How can I help?"I need you to rescue my advisors. They can tell you more about the attack and perhaps help you free me from my prison. I'm being weakened by some powerful magic. They won't be much use to you as fighters, but they're very clever."
I'll free them and we'll do our best to rescue you."My advisors are my confidantes, my bodyguards—they fill multiple roles. We were en route to my wedding with the Green Lady. When the Drublog attacked, they were slain or taken. Two survived: Raen and Sariel."
Who is Raen?"A warrior. He's my military advisor and a bodyguard. He fought hard during the ambush, but was overwhelmed. If you free him, he can advise you how to battle the Drublog, but I fear he was severely wounded and may not be able to fight."
Who is Sariel?"The youngest of my advisors, Ambassador Sariel's visions give guidance when those twice her age see no clear path. She could help you find out how to free me."
How were you taken?"The Drublog used a foul spell to trap me; I've never encountered it before. That same energy prevents anything beyond this Psijic contact. I can't escape without your help."
Why did the Drublog kidnap you?"As the Silvenar, I'm the manifestation of the spiritual strength within every Bosmer. But I must join with the Green Lady before my role can be fulfilled. The Drublog attacked my retinue on our way to this ritual. We had no time to ask them why."
When finding him in the fortress:
"It's good to finally see you with my own eyes. Thank you for rescuing me, but our trials are not over. The binding stones affected my connection to the Bosmer. I must get back everything they took from me."
How do we do that?"Give me time. The Drublog and the Houndsmen can't have missed your disruption of the binding stones. They'll be here soon, driven by Chief Nagoth. Keep them back while I regain the energy they stole from me. Only then can we leave."
I'm ready. Let them come.
Hold on. I need to prepare.
Once he has recovered his strength:
"The Houndsmen and the Drublog, working together to destroy my connection to the land! I can't believe it. Thankfully, you saved me."
Let's get you someplace safer."I agree. I've recovered sufficient magicka to create a portal out of Jathsogur. Are you ready to go?"
Create the portal."After I teleport out, I'll leave the portal open as long as I can. We'll meet again outside, beyond the reach of the Drublog. Don't wait too long; the portal won't stay up forever. And I wouldn't be surprised if more Drublog show up down here soon."
I'm ready. I'll meet you outside.
Can I just walk out?"Why fight through angry Drublog warriors and treacherous Houndsmen? You freed me and killed their leaders. They won't thank you for that. I must go now. I can't risk being trapped again. Use the portal or not; it's up to you."
Who are the Houndsmen, anyway? They look like Bosmer."They're Bosmer corrupted by the Hound, a Hircine worshiper who wishes to usurp my place at the side of the Green Lady. He's fed their desire for power by "gifting" them with lycanthropy. If he severs my ties to the Bosmer, they'll fall to his whims."
Outside:
"Events are spiraling out of control, and as the spinners say, we've "left the story." Without you, neither I nor my ambassador would've gotten out of Jathsogur."
Be careful on the road."I will be. It seems I can only trust you and my last ambassador. I must get to the town of Silvenar, and the Green Lady, quickly. As soon as my magicka returns, we'll be on our way."
"I'll stay here for a little while to fully recover my magicka. Thanks to you, I can shield us from enemies until then."
You'll be safe on your own?"Yes. With all you did inside Jathsogur, I think the Drublog threat is finished. I can deal with any stragglers who come my way. But I can't wait too long. Dallinir and my other guards sent word that I should get to the city of Silvenar."
Do you need me to do anything?"I'd like you to come to our wedding! You deserve an invitation. Look for me or Dallinir when you reach town to get it. Besides, I don't think we've heard the last of the Hound. You may encounter his minions along the way, or even in Silvenar."
I'll meet you in Silvenar."Now that I'm aware of the danger, I can protect myself and those around me. I won't be caught by the same trick twice."
How did they capture you in the first place?"The Drublog shamans and the traitorous Houndsmen conspired to drain my power, and sever my ties to the Bosmer. They used an ancient Daedric ritual, catching me unprepared. It won't happen again."
Who was behind your abduction?"A powerful Hircine-worshiper known as the Hound. He wants to usurp my place beside the Green Lady. He's a Bosmer; I sense his pain, and recognize his anger now. This isn't the first time he's attacked. Stand with me and you'll run afoul of him too."
Where were you headed when you were ambushed?"The town of Silvenar. There, I'll wed the Green Lady and join my spiritual essence with her physical power. It's a ritual that happens once a generation, and it will happen again soon."
In Silvenar:
"My friend! I was certain you'd arrive. And it's a good thing you did. All is not well in Silvenar."
What's wrong?"The city is closed against me! The ancient wards and guardians all see me as hostile. I could force my way inside, but that might hurt the people of Silvenar. This is supposed to be a celebration, not a war. I'll need your help once again."
"My tale nears its end. I pray to Y'ffre it goes well. But there could be a dark ending. Silvenar is closed against me."
What's wrong?"The city is sealed against me … something I would not have thought possible. It would take the power of— Of course! The three spinners! They could do it, if they were forced by someone powerful. Someone like the Hound."
The Hound?"Yes! That Hircine-worshiper wants to keep me from the handfast. My scouts saw his Houndsmen in the ravine below, bearing silver shards that radiate magicka. Can you wrest the shards from them? They're key to unlocking the city, and this puzzle."
I'll get you those shards."I believe those silver shards are physical manifestations of stories woven by the Bosmer's three most powerful spinners. If you take them from the Houndsmen in the ravine below, we'll know for certain."
And the Hound?"We've run afoul of him before. The Hound was behind the trouble in Dra'bul and my kidnapping and imprisonment in Jathsogur. He wishes to supplant me as the Green Lady's rightful consort. We have to stop him, for the sake of the Bosmer people."
Can you tell me more about the silver shards?"As I said, they are creations of Silvenar's three great spinners. I'm certain the Houndsmen are using them to turn the wards of the city to their master's evil purpose, to help him keep me from the Green Lady. Of course, there are other defenses."
What defenses does the city have?"In addition to the wards, there is the Guardian of Silvenar, an elemental creature that patrols the bridge. He will be compelled to act against us, by the same magic that turns the wards. You must defeat him … after you recover the shards."
Where is the Green Lady?"I don't know, but she must be inside the city. If she were anywhere else I'd be able to sense her presence. My fear is that the Hound has trapped her in some way similar to the way he kept me in Jathsogur. Perhaps the shards are part of that trap."
After defeating the guardian:
"Quickly … you've defeated the guardian, but it will return soon. You need to get inside the city and locate the three spinners."
Can you tell where they are?"I sense they're being held in the trees within the city. The bonds of Hircine surround them, however, so you can't go directly to them. You'll need to learn about the spinners and their prisons in order to free them."
What can you tell me about them, then?"All I know are their names: Spinner Einrel, Spinner Caerllin, and Spinner Dothriel. This is my first visit to the city and until the handfast, my connection with the Bosmer is incomplete. I know how you can learn about the three spinners, but it will be dangerous."
Tell me."Question the ones who bound them. The Houndsmen's witches worked with their master to craft special prisons for each spinner. Force the witches to tell you everything they know about the bindings and locations of the three spinners."
I'll learn whatever I can from them."Once you've learned about the three spinners, I'll contact you again. Look for my Psijic projection beneath the Great Tree at the center of the city."
After learning about the three spinners:
"I sense that you've completed your task. You've questioned the Houndsmen witches about the spinners and their bonds?"
Yes."When you defeated the guardian, I projected more of my essence into the city. I've learned something about each spinner and their bonds. They're being contained by puzzles that tap into each spinner's essence."
How do I solve the puzzles?"The Hound is using Ayleid stones to imprison each spinner. The key to each puzzle is tied to each spinner's essence, but their very spirits power the barrier keeping me out of the city. Solve the puzzles, free the spinners, and open the barrier."
Is there any other way to bring down the barrier?"Yes. If you fail to solve a puzzle, a manifestation of that spinner's spirit will appear. Kill it and the barriers will fall, but at the cost of a spinner's life. Try to solve the puzzles and free the spinners, not kill them."
I'm ready. Where can I find the spinners?"Each has a home surrounding the Great Tree. Go up from here, then cross the tree-bridges and climb up further still to their homes. Search the spinner's home for clues to solving each puzzle. Return here after you've broken their bonds."
[Persuade] Can you be more specific about solving these puzzles?"Take your time. The spinners work with the past, present, and future, and likely left clues to help solve the puzzle of their bindings. Look carefully at each stone, and read every book within their chambers. I'm sure you'll find the answers."
Tell me about the spinners."Spinner Einrel is the youngest. She is a master alchemist, and her purview is the future. She foretells many things with her prophesies. Try to assemble her history in the solution to her puzzle."
And the others?"Spinner Caerllin was a powerful warrior before the spinner's path found him. He is blessed with a keen awareness of the present. His perception of things happening here and now, particularly regarding the handfasting, should be the key to solving his puzzle."
What about Spinner Dothriel?"She is the eldest and most powerful spinner. A wizard almost from birth, she sees the past more clearly than you and I see the present. She draws parallels between then and now. Use that in solving her puzzle."
After freeing the spinners:
"You've done it! The barrier is almost broken. As you broke each of the spinners' bonds, I could feel the energy dispersing. I'm almost through."
What happens now?"We must confront the Hound! But I have grim news. The Hound has somehow enthralled the Green Lady's spirit. That's why the wards against my entry were so strong. She's in the audience hall, fighting to repair the damage you've done."
What can we do?"Give me the silver shards. They contain the essence of the three spinners' stories. I can use them to overcome the Hound's spell, but only if I can physically get to the Green Lady. Go to the audience hall and distract her."
How do I distract her?"She's a warrior, first and foremost, and will abandon her repairs to confront you. Then I'll be able to break through the barrier. Of course, if the Hound gets to her before I can … best not to think of that."
What do you mean?"Together, the Green Lady and the Hound will be formidable. Our only hope is for me to get to the audience hall quickly and help. If you're overcome, all Silvenar, all the Bosmer, may be lost. Fight bravely, and well."
I understand. Where's the audience hall?"Take the ladder up from here. It's above us, high in the Great Tree. Good luck, my friend."
I'll do my best.
After the ceremony:
"My friend, we've come a long way from Hectahame. You've known me now in two lives. It's only right you're here as I begin a third when I bond with the Green Lady. Now, please, enjoy the celebration."
Mane Akkhuz-ri:"Indaenir, the tunnel is finally clear. Akkhuz-ri will return to Marbruk and send soldiers to reinforce this location."Indaenir:"Yes. Yes. That makes sense. Perhaps it's better if I go out into the pass and try to discover why Naemon ordered the undead to attack in the first place."Mane Akkhuz-ri:"Yes. Both of you go. Find out what Naemon is planning and report to Marbruk. Don't try to do all this on your own … and of course, may bright moons light your path."
After bringing the skulls to the stone table:
Indaenir:"You who were condemned. Hear me. Your only hope of being released is to tell us why the dead have been risen."Skull of Thraul:"Ha! We need no release. The Shade of Naemon heralds a new age—an age where we will be restored, and you are the ones who will be judged."Skull of Ethril:"Hold on. How do you know that? Did the Shade actually tell you that?"Skull of Thraul:"He doesn't have to. When the forest is transformed, who do you think will inhabit the Shadow Wood? We will!"Indaenir:"Naemon does not have the power to release any of you, but I do. Help us, and you'll have your chance at freedom."Skull of Ollion:"I'll tell you. Don't listen to that fool. The Shade seeks to corrupt the forest—to create a new realm—it's called the Shadow Wood."
Indaenir:"What's that over there?"Laenril:"Elphirion, General Malgoth and the rest of the Blackroot troops are almost upon us."Glonnir:"No, that plan is madness!"Elphirion:"Silence, Glonnir. Our sacrifice today will ensure our sister villages live on."
The second vision:
Indaenir:"Here is another scene. Let's watch."Laenril:"Elphi, I can't do this. I'm scared. I don't want to die."Elphirion:"It's all right, Laenril. The poison itself is slow. The Blackroot will have cut our throats long before you felt its effects. Here. We'll drink it together and I'll fight by your side till the end."Laenril:"Until the end."Elphirion:"Now. To battle!"
The third vision:
Indaenir:"Look, another one."Narwin:"That's the last of them, General. The village is clear."General Malgoth:"An easy victory! Vullain is the first to fall, but there will be more. Now, per the Meat Mandate, let us feast on the fallen. Prepare the cave temple! It's a suitable place for a celebration."
The fourth vision:
Indaenir:"Look. Another one."Narwin:"General Malgoth, the troops … half of them are dead! The other half …."General Malgoth:"Are dying, including us. This is poison. The villagers poisoned themselves to poison us."Narwin:"What do you mean?"General Malgoth:"The Meat Mandate you idiot! Elphirion knew she couldn't win on the field, but she'll still manage victory. To the Nereid temple. Perhaps we can beg a cure."
The fifth vision:
Indaenir:"Here is another scene. Let's watch."General Malgoth:"Rise my soldiers. Back to your bodies, and take up arms."Narwin:"Why do you command us from the Ooze?"General Malgoth:"A powerful one, unknown to me, has stolen my bow. It invoked the Right of Theft, and commanded we march against the Dominion."Narwin:"By your command …."
Mane Akkhuz-ri:"Look. Indaenir."Cariel:"Perhaps you should take a few steps back, Mane?"<Indaenir comes back to life>Cariel:"The Valenheart … it saved Indaenir!"Mane Akkhuz-ri:"Saved him? Cariel?"Cariel:"The Valenwood brought him back! It's Y'ffre's will."Indaenir:"What happened?"Cariel:"Indaenir, you're … Y'ffre has chosen you. You're the Silvenar."
Outside:
Mane Akkhuz-ri:"His spirit was gone from the mortal world. The Valenwood restored him."Queen Ayrenn:"Indaenir?"Indaenir:"The Mane speaks the truth, Queen Ayrenn."Mane Akkhuz-ri:"Cariel herself said Y'ffre chose him. This one agrees."Queen Ayrenn:"Then rise Indaenir. It is I who have the honor of bowing to you."Indaenir:"Queen Ayrenn, please. I …"Queen Ayrenn:"People of the Aldmeri Dominion. I present to you, your new Silvenar."
The Green Lady:"How dare you threaten us? The Hound is my true consort! You will not interfere!"The Hound:"I'm here, Gwaering! No one can stop our union now!"The Silvenar:"Green Lady! Remember the Green Pact! Come to me!"The Hound:"No! We belong together!"
After the Hound has been killed:
The Silvenar:"And good riddance to that. Gwaering, are you hurt?"The Green Lady:"I'll be fine. Let's not delay the ceremony any longer."
In the vision, while fighting off the feral Bosmer:
The Silvenar:"Why? Why my love? Why is this happening?"The Green Lady:"The Hunt … it's turned them. This never would have happened if the Dominion had stayed intact! Damn the eagle banner!"The Silvenar:"I'm glad you two showed up. You can help us find … nng."
while fending off the feral Bosmer:
The Silvenar:"Nng! The pain! I can't go on much longer like this."The Green Lady:"What's wrong, my heart? Are you wounded?"The Silvenar:"I don't know. I feel weak. I don't know what's happening."The Green Lady:"Hold on a little longer, my love … damn it. Yet more coming. Help us!"
After fending off the feral Bosmer:
The Green Lady:"We can't hold this place. Got to get out of here. Follow, if you would live."The Silvenar:"Leave me here, my love. Find safety. I can fend for myself."The Green Lady:"Don't say that. You'll be well. There's still hope, love. There's still hope."
After talking to the Green Lady:
The Green Lady:"What's wrong? What's happening?"The Silvenar:"Run. Get out of here!"The Green Lady:"No, love. I won't. I can't leave you!"The Silvenar:"Get out of here before I hurt you!"
Quotes[]
Retaking the Pass
"I've been underground too long. I can't wait to get back out into the forest." – After first speaking to him
"Let's see if I can speak to this one. Come here, little one …. Yes. That would be so helpful. Thank you." – When asking a torchbug to lead the Vestige to the cursed dead
"Off it goes. Follow it to find the skulls and then meet me at the Stone Table." – After the torchbug heads off
"It pains me to see the forest suffer like this. I can sense the Green itself calling out for vengeance." – While seeking out the shadow rifts
"However many rifts they open, I will close them all—every one!" – While seeking out the shadow rifts
"Such foul creatures in my forest will not be tolerated!" – While seeking out the shadow rifts
"We will cleanse the forest or die trying!" – While seeking out the shadow rifts
"I will purge this corruption from Valenwood, whatever it takes." – While seeking out the shadow rifts
"Don't take long. We must press on with our efforts." – Just before he departs from Driladan Pass
The Blight of the Bosmer
"I think I can actually sense the blight attempting to corrupt my mind. I've never felt anything like this." – After activating the East Standing Stone
"Even the water here seems to be somehow tainted." – After activating the Central Standing Stone
"The corruption has spread to these plants as well. It's like they're dead … but not dead at the same time." – After activating the West Standing Stone
"Y'ffre's bones! The corruption is coming from the den of the Eldest! We need to get there—quickly!" – After activating all three Standing Stones
Right of Theft
"Look for the glimmers of the past I spoke of. Hopefully, they will help us figure out how to put the Blackroot clan back to rest." – After first speaking with him
"Go on if you must, but I'm going to remain here. For now, at least." – Upon entering the Nereid temple cave
Striking at the Heart
"I hope this works." – Before casting his spell to get into the Shadow Wood
"All right then." – After his spell succeeds
"Y'ffre's bones! He's turned so many … we have to stop this!" – On your way to the Grove
"As formidable as you may be, I fear we couldn't get through here in the physical realm." – On your way to the Grove
"I knew we couldn't be that lucky. The Shade has blocked the way. Let's see. These pedestals look as if they're still active. Yes, I know what to do." – At the entrance to the Valenheart
"Good. This should work." – Upon placing all three keys
"Hurry! We have to save the Heart!" – After unsealing the door to the Valenheart
"Y'ffre guide me. I hope this works." – While sacrificing himself
"It's working. Just a little more." – While sacrificing himself
The Prisoner of Jathsogur
"I can see my prison! The fortress, on the hill. Come up!" – After destroying all four binding stones
"That's just the first group. More are coming!" – While defending him
"Almost done! Protect me a while longer!" – While defending him
Restore the Silvenar
"Quickly! Over here!" – After defeating the guardian
The First Step
"My friend! Isn't this amazing? It's my first time on the borderlands of Valenwood. And my first time in a Khajiiti temple! I'm honored to be here today."
The Moonlit Path
"More are coming! We have to leave him!" – Upon entering the vision of the Bosmer future
Trivia[]
Indaenir's appearance changes after the Vestige first encounters him. His hairstyle and chin shape change.
