Online:Darien Gautier

The UESPWiki – Your source for The Elder Scrolls since 1995
Jump to: navigation, search
Darien Gautier
(lore page)
Home City Camlorn
Location Varies
Race Breton Gender Male
Health 39,959†
Reaction Friendly
Other Information
Follower The Final Assault (optional intially, default later)
Lost in TranslationSummerset
A Necessary AllianceSummerset
The Crystal TowerSummerset
Faction(s) House Tamrith
Fighters Guild
Darien Gautier

Darien Gautier is a Breton who is initially encountered in Camlorn during the Daggerfall Covenant quest to retake the city. He is the son of General Gautier, a member of the Lion Guard.

Darien is a recurring character in the Daggerfall Covenant plotline. During the course of the story, he is revealed as something of an enigma: He has prophetic dreams about Coldharbour, among other things.

He later makes his way to Stirk and joins the militia of the Mages and Fighters Guilds coalition, leading their forces throughout the invasion of Molag Bal's realm. He disappears during the invasion's last major battle.

He is the author of The Journal of Darien Gautier, A Plea for Help, and Words of the Fallen.

Darien reappears in the Summerset chapter, in which he serves as the Golden Knight of Meridia in yet another Daedric plot.

Related Quests[edit]

Covenant Quests[edit]

Coldharbour Quests[edit]

Summerset Quests[edit]

Prior to The Dreaming Cave, Darien is known as the Golden Knight. See that page for involvement in previous quests.

Quest-Related Events[edit]

Camlorn[edit]

A Lingering Hope[edit]

Darien can be first found in the Camlorn church, with the other guards and civilians.

Darien Gautier: "Lower your blades, friends. This one doesn't look like a werewolf to me."
"What brings you to our pleasant little city? The war? The blood? The thrice-damned werewolves?"
The Lion Guard holds the courtyard. Your father sent me to find you.
"That's the first good news I've heard today.
But if you're here to take me to my father, you can get that thought right out of your head. There are beautiful women in Camlorn that still need to be rescued."
General Gautier sent me to retrieve your master key.
"In all seriousness, I'm not doing anything before we find a safe refuge for the civilians hiding in the surrounding buildings.
The inn nearby should be defensible enough and it's full of supplies. There's just one catch."
What's the catch?
"The inn's locked up tight and the innkeeper was killed trying to reach us.
Get the key from the body and enter the inn, the shine a signal light. I'll rally the civilians and get them to safety. We'll talk about my key after that."
I noticed Bloodthorn cultists in the city.
"When the werewolves attacked, the damn Bloodthorns appeared inside the city. It was as if they'd been here all along. I think they even opened the gates for the werewolves.
They had a plan and they executed it perfectly."
You think Faolchu and the Bloodthorns are working together?
"If they didn't start out that way, that's certainly the case now.
A marriage made in Oblivion, to be sure, but effective nevertheless."

Once he sends you on your way, he has a final comment.

"I prayed to the Eight for a miracle. Instead they sent you.
Oh, don't look a me like that. I'm joking. Mostly. Now go get that key."

When the inn has been secured:

Darien Gautier:"Get the injured inside. Anyone who can still stand, guard the doors."

Darien has further need of you once the civilians are inside.

"And here we are, at the inn, all safe and sound. More or less.
We saw the light and followed you inside."
Now about your master key …?
"Ah, ah, ah. Not quite yet. We need weapons and armor to help protect these civilians.
There are caches of Camlorn Guard supplies hidden around the city. Gather some and we can arm more people."
I'll find the caches of weapons and armor.

Speaking to him again:

"We'll need all the armor and weapons you can find.
Just think how grateful some of these sweet young citizens will be."

Once the armor and supplies have been retrieved:

"Ah, the lovely clank of armor. Well done. When we get out of here, the first drink's on me.
Now, I have some good news and some bad news."
Of course you do.
"The good news is I do indeed have the master key to the city gates.
The bad news is your thrilling exploits have attracted Faolchu's attention."

If you've completed Hidden in Flames, he'll go on to give you the next quest. If not, he'll say:

"If we're going to hold the inn, we'll need more warm bodies to wear this armor.
Talk to Alinon. He's working on a way to cure those afflicted with Faolchu's lycanthropy."

The Fall of Faolchu[edit]

If you don't pick up the quest and you approach him, he will say "You certainly know how to make an impression."

Talking to him:

"You were too successful, my friend, and now Faolchu is—pardon the pun—howling mad."
Never mind that. We need to unlock the gates for the Lion Guard.
"A bold plan, especially for my father. If we time it right, it should work.
But that doesn't change the fact that Faolchu is hunting for us."
What do you suggest?
"Take one of these newly armed townsfolk with you. Have the civilian light the fires in the towers to signal my father.
I'll take the rest of the civilians and my guards and unlock the gates."
You just want me to protect a civilian?
"Oh no, you have something much more important to do.
Once the fires are lit, you confront Faolchu. Keep him busy long enough for our troops to take the city. I'll send aid as soon as I can."
You expect me to take on Faolchu by myself?
"Now, don't be modest. You've more than proven yourself. Destiny beckons and you must answer its call.
Say, that sounded rather good. I should write this stuff down."
I need fire to defeat Faolchu.
"Oh, we can give you fire.
At least we can once the Lion Guard archers arrive. Keep Faolchu busy long enough, and you'll get all the fire you need."

Before leaving the inn he warns you to protect the volunteer.

"Just make sure you protect that civilian. Volunteers don't grow on trees around here, you know."

Once Faolchu is dead, General Gautier directs you to speak to Darien. Approach him and you'll hear him comfort some survivors:

Darien Gautier: "My condolences to your families for the hardship you've had to face. My soldiers and I failed to protect you as we were sent to do. I will ensure that I find who is responsible for this, and avenge our people."

His dialogue differs depending on whether Gloria Fausta is around or not. If Gloria is present:

"I didn't know Gloria was involved in all this. She does make wading through werewolves look pretty good, though, don't you think?
Maybe she and I can get together later. Share a bottle of wine. Find a quiet corner where we can...compare notes.

Otherwise:

"It's good to see the Duke back in Camlorn. This is where he belongs."

Either way:

Save it for your entourage, Captain. Your father sent me to speak to you.
"I wanted to thank you. Personally.
We might have been able to retake Camlorn eventually, but it wouldn't have been quick and it certainly wouldn't have been pretty. You saved lives, and that's not something I'll soon forget."
What will you do now?

If you're male, he'll say:

"I'm resigning from the Camlorn Guard. Never did like being stuck in one place for too long.
Once this Angof thing is finished, maybe I'll travel for awhile. See exotic lands, exotic women. Drink exotic wine. Oh, and cheese. I love cheese!"
You're just going to leave?
"And what are you going to do? Anyway, my job here is done. My father will take good care of the city.
I'm not one for building things and making repairs. I don't even own a hammer. I'm sure I can be of more use somewhere else."

If you're female, he'll instead say:

"I'm resigning from the Camlorn Guard. They need builders now, not soldiers.
Besides, that Angof thing is still out there. Someone has to go deal with that. Unless, of course, you'd care to tempt me with a drink before I start my heroic journey?"
I don't think so, Darien. You're not my type.
"A pity. I would have enjoyed sharing a drink with you. Ah, well.
Anyway, I failed these people. The werewolves slipped in on my watch. I need to make sure that never happens again."
Maybe later, when this is all over.
"Well, then! All the more reason for me to get out there and deal with this Angof fellow once and for all!
The werewolves slipped in on my watch. I need to make amends for that. I need to make sure that Camlorn isn't threatened again."

Regardless of gender, you'll tell him:

It's time for me to move on.
"First one to reach Angof buys the first bottle of wine!
But in all sincerity, thanks for helping us. You really are an inspiration. And I should know, seeing as I'm pretty inspirational myself."

Taking the Fight to the Enemy[edit]

Once The Fall of Faolchu is completed, Darien can be asked some more questions before leaving Camlorn.

If your character is male:

"I'm going to make sure these people are taken care of before I leave.
It's the least I can do."

If your character is female:

"Still hanging around, eh?
Don't suppose your [sic] reconsidering that drink? Ah, never mind. We both have things we need to do."
Speaking of Angof, do you have any idea where he is?
"I had a drink with him earlier today. Discussed our favorite foods, our love lives, his plans for world domination, that sort of thing.
No, I have no idea where Angof is. I will find him though. That much I promise."
So where are you going to start looking?
"A squad of Lion Guard soldiers headed north to track him down. There's been no word from them, but who knows what was lost in all this werewolf nonsense.
That's as good a place as any to start. Maybe they found something."
I'll look for them.

Cath Bedraud[edit]

Mists of Corruption[edit]

Darien can be found guarding some poisoned soldiers in the Graveyard of Cath Bedraud.

"Well, look who's here! I should've known you'd be making Angof's life miserable. Camlorn wasn't enough for you, eh?
Say, these mists are poisonous. Why aren't you affected?"
I think it has something to do with this talisman. Why aren't you affected?
"I wish I knew. I didn't think. I just rushed in to help the Dragon Knights. My guards started gasping and falling to the ground, just like the knights. But not me.
These are the only survivors, but I don't think they'll last much longer."
Can we escort them out of here?
"The mist is thicker toward the gate. They won't survive passing through it again.
But the mist doesn't seem to affect the necromancers. Those amulets must protect them. Kill a few, take their amulets, and give them to the knights."
I'll get one for each of the surviving knights.
"Better grab a couple of extras, just in case anyone shows up while you're gone.
I'll stay and defend the knights from any wandering undead."

Once you agree to collect the amulets Darien will say:

"Don't worry about these fellows.
Nothing will get to them while I'm here."

After returning with the amulets:

"This beautiful woman from the Mages Guild just arrived. Says she knows you! You can introduce me later.
I was right about the amulets, though, wasn't I?"

Speak to Gabrielle and he'll say:

"Count on me to get the knights out of here. You just protect Gabrielle.
If this mad plan actually works, I'll see you inside the crypt."

The Labyrinth[edit]

Darien was one of the people who volunteered to go beneath Cath Bedraud. He has information on the various traps and shard-keys within the Labyrinth.

"We manage to meet each other in all the nicest places.
You know, we could be carousing at an inn somewhere. But no. Here we are instead, up to our necks in danger and adventure. Just like old times."

If you took him up on his offer to have a drink together later after defeating Faolchu, he will instead say:

"Tavern, I said! Meet me in a tavern. There's no ale down here, just zombies and tentacles. And where are the serving wenches? You promised me serving wenches!
Ah well, at least your timing is perfect."
We do keep meeting in the most interesting places.
"Dear Gabrielle's spell seems to have misfired. Luckily, a few of us were able to find each other.
I also convinced a Bloodthorn cultist to tell me how to reach Angof. I can be persuasive when I put my mind to it."
What did you find out?
"Three locks protect Angof's inner sanctum. I doubt that even you can get in there by simply knocking.
You need three shard-keys to open the locks. They're well-guarded, so you're going to have to kill a few things to get them."
I'll find the shard-keys.
"I wish I could aid you, but I'm needed here. Lanis is good with a sword, but I'm better. I'll protect the survivors.
Let Lanis know if you run into anyone else."
Where can I find these shard-keys?
"I don't know exactly, but the Bloodthorn cultist told me about the guardians.
Watch out for a summoned creature, an impassable trap, and a warrior spirit bound to Angof's service."
Tell me about the creature.
"All I know is that Angof drew on the collected power of his cultists to summon the creature. I hear that it's more plant than beast.
And, of course, it's terrible to behold."
Tell me about the trap.
"Actually, I couldn't get anything out of the cultist about the trap. Sorry. You're on your own with that one."
Tell me about the warrior spirit.
"It seems that when Angof first came to power, a certain knight took offense and tried to kill him.
Angof captured the knight's spirit and bound it to serve him. I understand he's extremely powerful and not at all happy about the situation."

Angof the Gravesinger[edit]

In Angof's inner sanctum:

"Why thorns? Why not casks of ale? That's how I'd decorate my inner sanctum."

Back at the Lion Guard Redoubt once Angof has been killed.

"Well, now, wasn't that fun? I'd fight alongside you anytime."

If you're character is female, he'll add:

"But I'd rather carouse. You do carouse, don't you?"

Shinji's Scarp[edit]

After Glenumbra, Darien can be found again in Shinji's Scarp.

"Hail, friend. We do meet each other in the most interesting places, don't we?"
Hello, Darien. Where have you been since we killed Angof?
"I've been traveling all over since. I hopped a boat to Stormhaven not too long after we parted ways.
I heard they might have coin and need of a strong arm here. Sadly they are lacking in the former."
Perhaps you could help me.
"I could, I suppose, but I am planning to move on soon, and I know you. Danger won't have root here long now that you've arrived, and as I mentioned, there isn't much treasure to go around on this one."
Where will you go?
"I'm not entirely sure yet, but East I think."

Rivenspire[edit]

The Road to Rivenspire[edit]

Once King Emeric asks you to go to Rivenspire, Darien can be found at Oldgate.

"What do we have here? I think I see a fellow lover of adventure, and I'm betting it's no accident that you're headed this way.
Am I right? Have Rivenspire's troubles become your troubles?"
Yes. King Emeric sent me to help restore order.
"Ha! Easier said than done, I'm afraid. But I'm glad to hear Emeric gives a damn. We thought maybe our dispatches weren't getting through.
I was about to walk to Wayrest myself, but you saved me that trouble. And I suspect you can help me further."

Shornhelm Divided[edit]

As you approach him, he may hail you with:

Darien Gautier: "Welcome to Rivenspire! Land of beautiful women and an ugly war!"

If you met him before, and you haven't started the quest yet, his alternative opening dialogue will be "Welcome to Rivenspire! Land of women and war!"

If this is your first meeting with Darien, you can find him either at Old Gate or outside the city of Shornhelm. He'll open his greeting with:

"You know, I was about to hike all the way to Wayrest to ask for aid, but maybe what we need is right here? Yes. You have the bearing all right.
What do you say, want to save a soldier from having to walk halfway across Tamriel?"

If you've met him before:

"Smashing! I was actually about to hike all the way to Wayrest to ask for aid, but I think I've already found what we need right here!
So what do you say, want to save an old friend from having to walk halfway across Tamriel?"

Regardless if you've just met him or if you're continuing the conversation from Road to Rivenspire, Darien further briefs you on what is happening in Shornhelm and bids you to go find his employer, Countess Tamrith.

"So this trip turned out to be far shorter and far more fortuitous than I expected.
That's assuming you're up to the challenge, of course."
What exactly do you need help with?
"If you haven't noticed, Rivenspire's caught up in a civil war as bloody as old Ranser's rebellion.
This time, it's Baron Montclair. He's apparently decided he'll be the King of Shornhelm whether the rest of the noble houses like it or not."
Baron Montclair started the civil war?
"Sure did. Bastard bribed the city guard, attacked the other nobles, and seized half of Shornhelm.
Now Montclair's troops are all over, and the Shornhelm Guard's getting its buttocks kicked. So? What to help me save the kingdom?"
All right. You can count me in.
"Think of the glory! It'll be just like Ranser's War! We'll rescue Rivenspire and the women will swoon. It'll be great! You'll see.
Go on to Shornhelm's chapel and tell Countess Tamrith I recruited you to the cause. I'll be along as soon as I can."

He can be asked more questions about the situation.

Why did Montclair decide to attack now?
"What makes tyrants do any of the things they do? Ambition? Glory? I certainly don't know.
What I do know is that Montclair's forces have taken half the capital and will soon take the rest of it unless the Shornhelm guard gets some help."
What else can you tell me about Montclair himself?
"Baron Wylon Montclair. Not much to say really. Before this, he shared rule with two other noble houses, Dorell and Tamrith.
Countess Tamrith says they were never very close, but she certainly wasn't expecting him to start a war."
Who is Countess Tamrith?
"She's the head of one of the noble houses. Young, but smart and very devout. I'm told she studied in Stormhaven, and has Emeric's favor.
She's not unattractive either...but she is my current employer, so I try not to notice."
What happened during Ranser's War.
"It was quite the talk of Tamriel at the time. Surprised you don't know about it.
It was over ten years ago. Our beloved High King insulted King Ranser of Shornhelm over some minor indiscretion. Ranser reacted poorly and declared war on Wayrest."
It was an actual war?
"If you can call it that. Lasted about a year. Just long enough for Emeric's troops to get a little exercise.
When it was over, Ranser was dead and peace was restored to the kingdom. The triumvirate of nobles has been running Rivenspire ever since."
Who are you again? (if you haven't met)
"I'm a knight in search of a noble cause, if you will. Currently, that cause is supporting Countess Tamrith.
I admit, I can sometimes get distracted by a beautiful woman, but what's wrong with that? Nothing as far as I'm concerned."
What have you been doing since we last met? (if you met during the previous questline)
"A little of this, a little of that. Lending my sword to just causes, flirting with the ladies. I've drank in every inn and tavern between here and Glenumbra, and I beat my friend Skordo at cards every chance I get.
It's great to see you again!"

Camp Tamrith[edit]

Before The Blood-Splattered Shield is started, Darien can be found at the Tamrith Refugee Camp alongside the Countess.

"Did you hear what that monster did to the town of Crestshade? Reezal-Jul has to pay for these crimes!"

The Blood-Splattered Shield[edit]

Following the soldiers' advice, you look for Captain Janeve by the river, but the one you find is the wounded Darien.

"This? It's merely a flesh wound! Think nothing of it. I'm worried about Captain Janeve, though."
What happened to the Captain?
"She caught sight of Reezal-Jul and rushed after him. I, of course, followed. His vampires surrounded us, and while I was fighting them off, the good captain was dragged away.
They took Janeve into that cave. Hurry! You need to save her!"
What about you?
"I can barely stand. I'd just slow you down.
I'll send reinforcements your way—if any show up, that is."
I have some questions.
"I can't believe a blasted vampire actually got a decent cut in on me. But I was pretty busy trying to protect Janeve.
The House Tamrith sisters are both brave and good women. Please help Janeve if you can."
Why was the camp caught unawares?
"The Shornhelm soldiers were diligent enough, but I think that thrice-damned Argonian used magic to mask their approach. They moved in so quickly and quietly, that a good third one of the camp was down before Janeve and I could react."
Are you sure that Reezal-Jul came this way?
"Oh, yes indeed. If I could get my hands on that damn lizard, I swear I'd make a pair of boots from his hide. And then I'd put them on and stomp through troll poop!
The people in the camp were just villagers. Now most are dead, poor bastards."

Speaking to him again, he urges you to stop Reezal-Jul:

"Hurry, friend! Who knows what that mad Argonian is planning to do to poor Janeve."
How did you get wounded? (Same questions being asked)

Once Reezal-Jul has been killed and you chose to spare Captain Janeve, Darien can be found where he was left, along with Gwendis, Countess Eselde and Janeve.

"I call this a successful day. We beat Reezal-Jul and we saved the lovely Captain Janeve.
You know what would make it even better? If I can convince all these lovely ladies to join me for a drink at the nearest tavern."

After the quest is completed:

"What do you say? Let's go find Lady Lleraya and Baron Montclair!"

If you chose for Janeve to die, he'll be at the lake alone with Gwendis:

"You're back. What happened? Did you stick something long and sharp through that crazy lizard's blackened heart?"
Reezal-Jul is dead. But Captain Janeve … she didn't make it.
"I suspect that there's more to that story, but perhaps now isn't the time to get into it.
Here comes the Countess now."

After the quest is completed:

"If the Countess has one of her famous healing poultices, I could sure use one. That'll have me back in fighting form in no time!"

Northpoint in Peril[edit]

Darien eating bread

Skordo says that Darien went to scout the Monclair camp around Northpoint and hasn't returned yet and asks you to find him. Darien can be found in the Officer's Quarters of the camp, you find him half-naked and eating by the fire. A mostly-naked woman is lying in the nearby bed.

"I was wondering when you were going to show up.
Want a bite?"
What's going on here?
"Reconnaissance! But keep your voice down. No need to wake the good captain.
And know what I learned? There's not a single guard in Northpoint. Lleraya ordered them to get out and keep everyone away."
Is that all?
"Isn't that enough? I was fairly proud of that bit of espionage.
But you're right. There's more. The good captain here let slip that there's a smuggler's tunnel. Leads right into the heart of the city. It's our best option for getting inside."

Then Gwendis reveals she was in the room the entire time.

Gwendis: "My, my, Sir Darien. That was impressive. But when it comes to smuggler's tunnels, I think there's a thing or two I can teach you."
Darien Gautier: "I'm not sure how to respond to that. Why don't you find out what our vampire vixen is talking about."

Before speaking with Gwendis:

"I wish I'd known she was in here all this time. The more the merrier, I always say."

After Gwendis asks you to find the key for the smuggler entrance:

"Don't worry about me. I'll throw on some armor and go with Gwendis. Put the old team back together!
But first I need to leave a flower for the lovely captain here. Give her something to remember me by."

Once the key is found, the team is gathered around the tunnel entrance.

"I'm not sure how Montclair and his troops stand this armor. It's itchy and it smells like rotten mudcrab meat."

The Liberation of Northpoint[edit]

Darien lets out a mysterious burst of light

Once a safehouse has been established in Northpoint, Skordo sends you out to find the rest of the team. Darien can be found fighting off bloodfiends in the Northpoint Graveyard.

Darien Gautier: "Have at thee, foul creatures!"
<A bright light emerges from Darien, killing the two bloodfiends attacking him.>
"Well, that's never happened before. Look out! Behind you!"
Darien Gautier: "Watch out, they're coming out of the woodwork!"
Darien Gautier: "I lost track of the Baron and the Countess when I heard the innkeeper scream. But I was too late."
"He gave me the key to the inn before he died. I think he tried to tell me something, but I couldn't make it out. Be on your guard. Here comes more of those monsters."
Darien Gautier: "Thanks for rescuing me. Just so you know, this isn't a usual occurrence. Oh, who am I kidding? This happens to me all the time."
"Can I assume the house emerged from is our safe location? Of course it is. I'll just wander over and have a little lie down, if it's all the same with you."
Protect Darien from waves of enemies at the cemetery

When everyone has been found and you return to the safehouse, Darien can be heard from upstairs.

Darien Gautier: "Damn it, Countess! That stings! Stop smearing me with your religious ointments and creams!"
Darien Gautier: "Gah! What is that stuff? It smells like church! Keep it away from me!"
Darien, knocked unconscious to administer medicine

Darien will be upstairs in bed, after being treated by the Countess. With his head in an addled haze, he'll lazily whisper:

"Can't talk now. The pretty lady said it's sleepy time. Ssshhh!"

You'll find out from Countess Eselde Tamrith that she had given him... "The end of my staff, right to the side of his head. Best way to quickly quiet a delirious soldier."

After Lady Lleraya has been killed and control over Northpoint has been restored, Darien can be found next to the fountain alongside everyone else. After Baron Dorell has chastised his son:

"Tough family, huh? Not sure it was his fault, exactly, but I've been known to do some crazy things for a woman.
Never anything like this, though. I do have limits, you know."

If you speak with him after you have decided what should happen with Ellic but before you finish the quest, he will say:

"I almost feel sorry for young Dorell. Almost. But I learned long ago, if you're going to drink to excess, you have to face the consequences."

When The Liberation of Northpoint is completed:

"The Shrouded Pass that leads to the Doomcrag contains an ancient Ayleid ruin. I hate ruins. Never anywhere to get a decent drink or a hot meal."

Shrouded Pass[edit]

After accepting the Puzzle of the Pass quest, Darien will be found at the Staging Ground camp, at the bottom of the Shrouded Pass.

"I've explored a few Ayleid ruins in my time. Dangerous places. But you know me. I love dangerous places."

Or (After speaking with Verandis):

"Ayleid defenses? That doesn't sound good. Well, I'm sure you can handle it. Just give a holler if there's any way I can lend a hand."
Did I miss anything while I was traveling?
"Not too much. Just the usual bickering between Tamrith and Dorell. It's starting to wear on my nerves, truth be told.
I needed a little quiet time. You can probably find the Countess and the Baron up ahead, arguing about something or another."

At one point of the climb up the mountain, Darien can be found on one of the bridges looking up at the Doomcrag spire.

"Look at that spire. Rather menacing, don't you think? I should be nervous, but the thought of climbing up there … it's pretty exciting!"

The Lightless Remnant[edit]

Inside Ceynaril where the team has gathered for the final push to the Doomcrag, Darien can be found with Countess Tamrith where they have been having a disagreement.

"I'm trying to talk some sense into the Countess. She needs to abandon all this Light nonsense and start trusting in herself and her own abilities.
Besides, she's much too pretty to hide her head inside a prayer book all the time."
And how's the talk going so far?
"I think I'd have better success coaxing an ogrim into my bed! The Countess won't listen to a word I say. She's convinced that religion is the answer to all our troubles.
After this, I'm done with House Tamrith and beautiful nobles!"
Thank you for seeing this through to the end.
"Wouldn't be the first time I did something crazy, now would it?
I'm in this until end. After that—well, I'm sure something else will come along."
Stop crying and pull yourself together. We need you.
"Do you see any tears in my eyes? No? I didn't think so.
You don't have to worry about me. I've got plenty of options for companionship. Take Gwendis, for instance. She might be a vampire, but she's got a great set of … um … fangs."
[Persuade]You're too good for her. She can't see a good thing when it's right in front of her. (Female Character)
"Oh my. I didn't realize you felt this way. But I guess it's to be expected. I never have been able to tone down the charm.
Well, don't worry, my love. When this is all over, we'll find each other again. I just know we will."

After Gwendis, the Countess and the Baron are freed from Montclair's trap. Darien and Skordo will run in looking for their charges.

Darien Gautier: "What's going on in here? Is the Countess all right?"
Skordo the Knife: "Damn it, Darien! Slow down! Wait for me, you long-legged bastard."
Count Verandis Ravenwatch: "The Baron and the Countess are fine. But you both arrived just in time to move them to safety."
Darien Gautier: "Take them out? But we just got here. We want to help take down Montclair! Neither of us has had a good fight in … well, it's been at least a couple of minutes."
Count Verandis Ravenwatch: "No, Darien. This battle is not one that you and Skordo can win. Leave Monclair to us."
Darien Gautier: "But … but … oh, very well! But I get to help take down the next would-be world conqueror we come across. Deal?"
Count Verandis Ravenwatch: "As you wish, brave Darien, as you wish. And now, my friend, the time has come to face Montclair."

He can be asked about what is happening further down the mountain.

"Eselde is still breathing. That's a good sign, right? Of course it is!"
What's happening back at the pass?
"Montclair's forces tried to assault our camp. We held them off, though. Our mages put up some wards, so they should be fine without us.
Skordo and I decided to come lend a hand."
Just keep the Baron and the Countess safe.
"We've got this covered. Just watch out for yourself up there. Don't do anything foolish, like dying heroically or something. I try to avoid any kind of dying, heroic or otherwise.
Besides, I'd rather you survive. Now go and do what you do best!"

After Verandis teleports you from the destruction of the Doomcrag to the survivors below.

Darien Gautier: "Look, everyone! We've got a survivor!"

Darien can be spoken to and he asks you to speak to Gwendis.

"You actually survived the destruction of the Doomcrag? That's … remarkable.
I mean, I've seen you do some amazing things. I'll never forgot our adventures in Glenumbra. But to walk out of a collapsed mountain? That's really impressive."
Verandis teleported me to safety at the last moment.
"That persnickety vampire really came through in the end. He was a good man … for a vampire, I mean.
We won the day, and that's what matters. The people of Rivenspire are safe now."
I see you managed to get everyone out of there.
"Just barely. We made it out right before the damned mountain came crashing down.
I still don't know what kind of magic you did up there to defeat Montclair, but remind me never to get on your bad side."
We should get back to Shornhelm.
"Before we go, you need to talk to Gwendis. She's not taking this well.
I even tried my sad face. It usually works, but she almost bit my head off. Anyway, we'll see you back in Shornhelm."

Darien will then start to marshal the survivors to move out.

Darien Gautier: "All right, everyone. Let's gather up our injured and get out of here."
Countess Eselde Tamrith: "Darien's right. There's nothing left for us here. We need to return to the High King and let him know what happened."
Baron Alard Dorell: "Mage, we need a portal. To Shornhelm, if you please."
Northpoint Defender: "Of course, Baron. Only take a moment."
<Portal created>
Northpoint Defender: "The portal to Shornhelm is open, my lord."

The Crown of Shornhelm[edit]

After all the excitement of the Doomcrag, Darien can be found relaxing with Skordo in Shornhelm Castle.

"After a long talk with the Countess, it was decided that it would be best if I looked for other employment.
I think she was just having a hard time dealing with her feelings for me. I expect she'll get all weepy when I'm gone."
So what's next for you, Darien?
"Well, now that she's no longer my lord and master, I might swing by and see if Eselde wants to … indulge in any of her less-theological fantasies. Maybe something along the lines of the farmer's lonely daughter …."

Bangkorai[edit]

The Parley[edit]

After returning to Queen Arzhela in Evermore from slaying Uela, you will find Darien in the throne room along with Gabrielle. Since you last met, he has joined the Fighters Guild and is leading the fighters assigned to the Queen during her parley with Septima Tharn. When he is spoken to he will explain his and the Fighters Guild's role in the mission as well as how he's been doing.

If this is your first Daggerfall Covenant quest with him (he still says "nice to meet you" even if you've adventured in Coldharbour together), he'll greet you with:

"Ah, the queen's champion! Honor to meet you. Means we're that much closer to getting paid. That's good, because I didn't come to Evermore for the women.
Are you ready then? As long as you're good with the plan, this thing's going to be a breeze."

Otherwise, he'll say:

"Aha! I thought we were in for a bit of easy coin with this job until the queen said you were coming along. Now I know to expect danger.
Bring it on though. If the plan goes awry, that just means we get extra hazard pay."
What exactly is the plan?
"For us, it's just sticking by the queen. If the Magus-General starts chanting, we go for the windpipe.
If things really go to Oblivion, we'll be shielding the queen until Gabrielle can get us all out of there."
I understand.
"I can tell you this much—with all due respect for the royal guard—Queen Arzhela could not be any safer than she will be under my protection.
I look out for the ladies, you know … queens included."

If you met him before, you can ask how he is doing:

How have you been by the way?
"I've seen some ups and some downs. You know how it is. Life hasn't been a slog through a poisonous swamp, nor has it been an endless night in a complimentary bordello.
Main thing is that I'm still on this side of the dirt."

After you arrive at the Nchu Duabthar Threshold and take up your position, the following scene will play out:

Darien Gautier: "Clear! Take up positions!"
<Fighters Guild members take positions and Queen Arzhela enters.>
Queen Arzhela: "I don't like this. Where's the Magus-General? It's not like a Tharn to be late."
<Septima Tharn appears out of thin air.>
Septima Tharn: "Impatience is hardly the mark of a strong ruler, Your Majesty."
Queen Arzhela: "When you're queen, you're welcome to set a finer example, Magus-General."
Septima Tharn: "That's one honor I do not seek. What I do seek, is the unconditional surrender of Evermore."
Queen Arzhela: "You came all this way just to make absurd demands? I'm surprised."
Septima Tharn: "Hardly absurd, Arzhela. I tried the soft approach with the duke, but you spoiled the effort. I've come to make one final offer: surrender, or you will die."
Queen Arzhela: "Your threats carry little weight, Septima. Bangkorai Garrison still stands between us, and it does not fall easily, or did you miss that in your history lessons?"
Septima Tharn: "Those who hide in the shadows of the past are crushed when its structures come tumbling down...Bangkorai Garrison has already fallen. My legionaries walk its battlements even now."
Queen Arzhela: "Is this another of your lies? I don't care. It's clear you want a war. And if that's what you want, you can have it!"
<Queen Arzhela attacks Septima Tharn, Septima flickers, revealing herself to be a projection.>
"What the...? She's not even here! It's an illusion!"
Septima Tharn: "Ha! Just remember, you struck first, Arzhela. Seventh Legion—Attack!"
<Septima Tharn disappears.>
Darien Gautier: "Ambush! Defend the queen at all cost."

Once there is a lull in the fighting, Gabrielle's group will meet up and she will try to make a portal to escape:

Gabrielle Benele: "My magicka is almost depleted. It's going to take all I've got to open a portal back to the palace. Be ready!"
Darien Gautier: "Can't you cast any faster, Gabrielle? The Imperials can. More portals opening up!"
<Portal is completed.>
Gabrielle Benele: "The portal to Evermore...go, Your Majesty, go!"

When you have escaped with the queen and spoken with her. Darien and Gabrielle come through another portal, the only survivors from the guilds:

Darien Gautier: "That...could've gone better...."
Gabrielle Benele: "I didn't think I had another portal in me...glad I was wrong."
Queen Arzhela: "Well...at least some of us survived."

Darien can be spoken to after this:

"I had a feeling that was going to end in blood—I didn't know it would be like that, though!
I feel bad for my guildmates."

The Weight of Three Crowns[edit]

He can be found with Skordo and Vikord Skullcleaver by the campfire eating bread. If you've met before he will greet you warmly.

"It's good to see you again, my friend!"

Otherwise he will say:

"I hope this invasion goes smoothly. I've got more than enough scars for one lifetime!"

After the Alliance Leaders agree to allow the Guilds to send forces to Coldharbour, Darien will with the rest of group assembled in the Portal Valley. If spoken to he will wonder about the chances of meeting beautiful women in Molag Bal's realm.

"I wonder if there are any beautiful ladies in Coldharbour? Or is that a different Daedric Prince?"

Coldharbour[edit]

The Army of Meridia[edit]

King Laloriaran Dynar[edit]
Darien wearing his Fighters Guild armor within the Hollow City

After you have rescued King Laloriaran Dynar, he will ask you to enter the Fighters Guildhall in the Hollow City to find out who is currently in charge. When you enter the hall, you'll witness an argument between Darien and Valorone.

Darien Gautier: "Your nagging is becoming more annoying than my persistent rash. We finally have a secure base—to go back outside without a plan is even too foolhardy for me."
Valorone: "You want us to hide behind these walls? To leave our comrades to die while you sip wine and lounge about? You have no honor, knight!"
Darien Gautier: "Don't lecture me about honor, Elf! You have no idea what I've seen or what I've gone through!"

You can then go over to Darien and ask him about the current leadership situation.

"My apologies for that display. The whole rash comment—just a figure of speech, of course.
So! I suppose you know more about this place than any of us? Like where I can get a decent drink?"
The city is a safe haven, a place where we can regroup and reorganize.
"A safe haven, eh? I didn't really expect to see cheerful flowers and clear water anywhere in this dark realm. I assumed we were walking into untimely and painful deaths.
Glad to see I was wrong this one time."
How did you end up here?
"I couldn't let you go off and save the world all by yourself, could I? Not with just these Fighters Guild braggarts.
Besides, there was a portal. How could I not step through and see what was on the other side?"
Who's leading this group?
"That's a good question. I heard that Captain Alphaury was killed shortly after we were scattered. I was hoping to find another officer here, but no such luck."
I rescued an Ayleid King. He wants to help assemble our forces.
"An Ayleid? I thought they were all, you know, dead.
Of course, this is a Daedric Prince's plane. I really need to stop being surprised by such revelations. I have a feeling that won't be the strangest thing I find out before this is all over."

King Laloriaran Dynar will then enter and announce himself.

King Laloriaran Dynar: "Attend me, soldiers! We have a war to win and time grows short."
Valorone: "What in Auriel's name is this? Who are you?"
Darien Gautier: "So that's the last Ayleid, huh? I thought he'd be more … dusty. Isn't that what happens when Elves get really, really old?"
Valorone: "Shut it, you fop."
Laloriaran Dynar: "Who's in charge of this group? Step forward and address me."
<Everyone is silent. Nobody steps forward to claim the position.>
Laloriaran Dynar: "Then allow me to rectify that. I shall lead you. We shall recover your comrades and complete your mission. If that does not work for you, your services are no longer needed."
Valorone: "I don't know who you are, but you aren't Fighters Guild. You have no authority over us!"
Laloriaran Dynar: "Do you challenge me, then? Do you want me to kill you to prove my combat prowess to your companions?"
Darien Gautier: "I wouldn't necessarily mind seeing that. He is kind of annoying."
Valorone: "How do you expect us to lay down our lives for someone we never met? Trust is earned on the battlefield!"
Laloriaran Dynar: "If you want to survive, if you want to win this, you must trust me. Allow me to explain why you need my leadership."
Laloriaran Dynar: "We shall work this out. I understand your reservations. But with my leadership, the Fighters Guild will help us win this war."

After King Dynar's speech you can speak with Darien.

"Well, the King certainly doesn't lack confidence. I can appreciate that. Might put our friend here in his place.
That'd be delightful to see."
What do you think about all this?
"I think there are a lot of good soldiers out there who need our help. I also know that if we just charge out there with no plan, we're as good as dead.
I'm always eager to rescue a fair maiden or two, but not at the cost of everyone's life."
The War Council[edit]

Darien will be one of the people attending the council in the Chapel of Light, when you speak with him before the meeting starts he will have a somewhat cynical view of things.

"Look at this place! All fancy and formal. Everyone gathered, putting aside their differences to overcome a greater evil. How heroic! I expect this means that we're all going to die.
Heroically, of course."

Once you speak with the King, the briefing will begin.

King Laloriaran Dynar: "Attention, please! I have called you all here because the moment of destiny fast approaches."
King Laloriaran Dynar: "The Great Shackle has been destroyed, but not before a planar vortex was established. We must destroy this vortex before it sucks the very essence of Nirn into Coldharbour."
King Laloriaran Dynar: "The Fighters Guild shall deal with the Chasm's defenders, but blades have little power against magic."
Vanus Galerion: "And that's where my mages come in."
Vanus Galerion: "Out scouts report that some kind of magical fixtures block access to the path across the Chasm. Mages there already work on a way to overcome these fixtures, and we are prepared to lend our strength when the main force arrives."
Sergeant Kamu: "A sound plan. Plays to our unique strengths. But this one wonders, what if the mages can't overcome Molag Bal's magic?
Vanus Galerion: "A ridiculous question! Of course my mages can overcome this magic!"
Cadwell: "Ah, magic! The solution to all life's problems. I love magic! It's so … magical."
King Laloriaran Dynar: "I have absolute confidence in Vanus and his mages."
Gabrielle Benele: "Thank you, your lordship. But to be honest with you, I'm not feeling as confident as Vanus about this."
King Laloriaran Dynar: "We shall fight with all our strength. There is no other option. Lives will be lost, but hopefully a world will be saved."
King Laloriaran Dynar: "Know that the Chasm is only the first stage of this battle. The planar vortex abides within the very heart of the Molag Bal's lair."
Darien Gautier: "Oh, this just gets better and better!"
Gabrielle Benele: "Darien! Mind your tongue!"
King Laloriaran Dynar: "Darien only seeks to lighten a tense situation. Still, we have to try. To do nothing is to doom Tamriel to certain destruction."
Darien Gautier: "Well, when you put it that way, there are a lot of lovely ladies that need to be saved …."
Vanus Galerion: "Yes, well, be that as it may, we launch our assault on the Chasm immediately. The King needs to talk to the champion and I must discuss some final details with the mages. The rest of you have your own preparations to see to, I'm sure."

Once the meeting is concluded, Darien will leave with the others.

Crossing the Chasm[edit]

When you arrive at the Chasm after following Cadwell, Darien will be there looking down at the action. When you talk to him, he will give you a reminder of what you need to do to help the forces progress.

"Make sure you destroy all four focus stones, or this war ends here and now. Our mages can't take control of the portal to the second tier while the stones are active."
What do you know about the Chasm?
"I know I'm ready to get moving. Sitting around and talking doesn't solve problems. That's what action is for! My sword is sharp and ready. I just need someone to make a decision already!
By the way, did you hear Molag Bal has a daughter?"
A daughter? Really? That's kind of surprising.
"I never pictured old Molag Bal as a loving parent. A twisted, sadistic parent, sure, but ….
Anyway, she's called Molag Grunda. Sounds … intriguing. I wonder what she looks like?"
Any news from Camlorn? (Appears if you completed the Camlorn quests previously.)
"Nothing recently. I imagine the country lasses miss me terribly while the bards continue to sing about Faolchu's defeat at our hands. Ha! That Faolchu was a bad puppy!"
I remember fighting by your side in Cath Bedraud. (Appears if you did the Cath Bedraud quests previously.)
"Yes, those were good times! And these times are pretty exciting, too. I just hope that when next we meet we're not someplace where everyone is trying to kill us.
Did I tell you about Molag Grunda? I can't wait to see what she looks like!"

If you abandon the quest inside the chasm and speak to him here, he'll say:

"Damned Dremora are defending those stones. Already took out a few of our people. They'll pay for that! I promise you!"
Darien closes a portal.

On the second tier, Darien and Dawnwalker will be attempting to reach the eastern portal to close it. Once you have helped fight off the waves of Daedra, he will show you how its' done.

Darien Gautier: "Watch and learn, my friend. Watch and learn. Let me show you how to close a Daedric portal."

He will approach the portal and look at it puzzled. Darien then stabs the portal with his sword and closes it somehow.

Darien Gautier: "One Daedric portal closed, as promised! Now that's how to do it … with style."

The Harvest Heart[edit]

After you speak with Vanus and complete Crossing the Chasm, Darien will have caught up to you at the entrance to The Orchard. You can talk to him.

"Sorry I missed the fight with Molag Grunda. I got distracted by a veritable flood of Dremora. I was up to my ankles in Winged Twilights and was having a grand old time!"
Everything taken care of back there?
"What? The Chasm? Piece of cake.
I'd say that facing a Xivilai and Winged Twilight on my own was a bit of a challenge, but then I'd be lying. They fell like great trees before a woodcutter's axe."
What's next?
"An overdue appointment with Molag Bal himself, I guess.
I don't want to sound overly confident, but I feel like I've gotten better since we got here. And I was, as you'll no doubt agree, damned impressive before Coldharbour."
I'm going into the Orchard. (Appears once The Harvest Heart is started.)
"Ah, the vampires. Should be a worthy challenge. Gathwen wants me to take a patrol back through the Chasm and let King Dynar know what's been happening.
Might even have time to stop for a drink or two in the Hollow City."

The Citadel Must Fall[edit]

Darien will be one of those gathered at the entrance to the Endless Stair.

"It all comes down to this, my friend. The final fanfare. The last hurrah.
I don't know the meaning of the word fear. Literally. I don't. But, damn, if the prospect of entering that gate doesn't twist my guts into knots."

The Final Assault[edit]

After you have received your orders and been briefed, Darien is one of the soldiers you can have accompany you on the Endless Stair.

"You ever get the feeling that you were meant to do something important?
Me neither. But this … this could come close to that. We stop the Planemeld and save the people of Tamriel. Who wouldn't want to be remembered for doing that?"
Do you want to join me for the initial assault?
"I've dreamed of this moment. Seriously. I always knew I'd end up fighting to save the world in Coldharbour.
I mean, you were a beautiful warrior with flowing red hair and an ample … well, no offense. But otherwise, this is just like my dream."
You will accompany me on my mission.
"I was hoping you'd say that! Whatever happens in there, we won't go down without a fight. Go let the old man know that we're ready to do what has to be done.
And I really did dream about this, you know." (Male Vestige)
"My lady, I'll fight by your side and follow you to the end of the world. And I mean that quite literally! Now go tell the old man we're ready.
And just so you know, I really did dream about this moment." (Female Vestige)
Let me talk to the others before I decide.

(Ends Conversation)

Speak to him again at various points throughout the Endless Stair and he will say the following (in order):

After choosing him:

"Let the Ayleid King know what an excellent and handsome companion you selected so we can get this mission underway."

After speaking to King Dynar:

"This all seems familiar. I don't like it. I shouldn't know what a Daedric Prince's lair looks like! How can I recognize this place? But don't worry. I'm not going to turn into an atronach or anything. I don't think."

Once you enter the Endless Stairs:

Darien Gautier: "That portal up there is our final destination? Doesn't seem too far. There is an entire army of Daedra between here and there, but it's not too far at all."

When you defeated a Guardian of Coldharbour:

Darien Gautier: "Well, isn't that nice? Molag Bal, the grateful Prince that he is, has sent out a welcoming committee!"
"Can we get a move on? These things stink something awful. Besides, we must be close to the portal by now."

When you encounter the Guardian of the Gate:

Darien Gautier: "Why do the mission objectives always have such large and powerful guardians?"

Before you close the portal:

"Go on, close that portal. The honor's all yours. I'll make sure nothing sneaks up on us in the meantime."

Closing the portal:

Darien Gautier: "Well done, my friend! We make an excellent team, if I do say so myself."

Starting to enter the Labyrinth:

"Well, I won't say that wasn't at least a little entertaining, but we're not finished yet. Time to enter the Labyrinth, old friend."

After Vanus appears from the portal:

"And here comes the great and marvelous Vanus Galerion―right on schedule and just in time to take all the credit. I think he wants to talk to you."

Starts leaving:

Darien Gautier: "That was fun, but I guess the main assault needs me. Don't get yourself killed while I'm gone."

You will meet Darien again at the Planar Vortex after some of your allies arrive through the portal. Before you start the final leg of your mission, you can talk to Darien.

"Most people dream of lusty Argonians or delectable dishes. But not old Darien. Oh, no—I dream about planar vortexes and blinding lights of Meridia! How is that possible?
And why do I keep asking questions that no one can answer?"
Tell me about your dream.
"Why waste words when I can simply show you. Look around! I've been dreaming about this place since I was a young boy.
Seeing it live and in person, that's a bit unnerving. Why couldn't this be that other dream I regularly have?"
How does the dream end? / This dream you mentioned, how does it end?
"With a blinding light, brighter than any I've ever seen. Then I'm in a room where everything's illuminated. As if the world itself is made of light. I'm … alone.
And then I wake up. It's always the same."
Any idea what it all means?
"That I'll soon wake up in a really bright room, too hung over to remember what I did, I hope.
But that's not likely, is it?"
How are you holding up?
"I'm alive which is more than I can say for a lot of the soldiers out there.
I keep thinking that if I would have stayed back I could have changed things. I know how war works, though. Someone, somewhere, is always going to die."
Don't lose your focus now. (Default Response)
"I've made it this far. I don't have any intention of giving up just yet.
I need to see how this dream really ends."
Don't beat yourself up about it. You're here and that's what matters.(
Daggerfall Covenant Storyline is completed.)
"Yes, yes I am. And after everything I've seen―the werewolves of Camlorn, the dungeons of Angof, the towering spire of the Doomcrag, and now this—I feel like I've seen it all.
I can honestly say it's been an honor to fight at your side."
[Persuade] Don't die on me, Darien. I need all of you to win this. (Female character)
"So when this is all said and done, maybe we can grab a drink? Or maybe you'll need a neck massage?
The beautiful hero of Coldharbour could use a break, I'd imagine. All those tense muscles. No, don't answer right now. You'll ruin the moment."
[Persuade] Don't die on me, Darien. I need all of you to win this. (Male character)
"Straight to business, as usual.
Let's kick some Daedric arse and get back to some good old frolicking!"
The same to you.
"Now let's go cause some havoc for the Prince of Schemes.
This will be our finest moment."


"Maybe after this we can actually find that tavern and get that drink I mentioned a while back.
And, hey, if one of us doesn't make it, promise to have a toast in the other one's memory."

After you destroy the remaining Dark Anchors, Gabrielle will want to stay behind to buy the group some time but Darien will refuse to leave her.

Gabrielle Benele: "We're running out of time. I'll make sure these anchors are destroyed. You have to keep moving! Place the light and disrupt this vortex."
Darien Gautier: "I'm sticking with her, my friend. Gabrielle and me, we've been through a lot. I'm not going to leave her alone."
Gabrielle Benele: "Darien …."
King Laloriaran Dynar: "No one else dies today. That's an order. Come on, let's go set the light in place."

When fighting off the Daedric forces after Molag Bal's council has been defeated, your allies will be teleported back in.

Vanus Galerion: "Gabrielle, focus all your energy into this! We can't let up!"
Gabrielle Benele: "I'm doing … my … best!"
Darien Gautier: "You deal with the crystal! We'll take care of our new guests."

As the fighting progresses:

Darien Gautier: "These are some ugly bastards! Is this the best Molag Bal can throw at us? I'm hardly working up a sweat!"
King Laloriaran Dynar: "This may well be our last battle. Let's make them remember it!"

Once the spell is almost completed:

Meridia: "You must hurry! My shield can't withstand much more of this!"
Vanus Galerion: "Almost … there!
Gabrielle Benele: "I can feel it, Vanus! We can beat this! We can—Darien, behind you!"
Darien Gautier: "Have no fear, beautiful Gabrielle! I have this under control!"
King Laloriaran Dynar: "You have to hurry! We can't hold them back much longer."
Meridia: "The light is ready! Quickly, release it!"
Molag Bal: "No! You cannot do this! I cannot fail!"
Gabrielle Benele: "Darien! Get back here! Darien!"

Darien will be last seen outside of Meridia's shield facing off against the Daedra, right before a bright white light appears and teleports everyone within to the Chapel of Light. Gabrielle Benele and Vanus Galerion can be spoken to about Darien, and mention that they do not know where he is.

Summerset[edit]

Appears only with Summerset

The Dreaming Cave[edit]

As you approach the center of The Spiral Skein, you hear a familiar voice:

Darien Gautier: "You're about to ... regret this."
Zikal-zun: "Silence or my webs will fill your pretty mouth next!"

Once you defeat Zikal-zun, Darien will quip:

Darien Gautier: "I tried ... to warn them."
Darien stuck in Mephala's web

Releasing him will elicit his thanks, but his humor falls flat with Valsirenn:

Darien Gautier: "Took you long enough. I expected this rescue hours ago."
Valsirenn: "Your gratitude has a hollow ring, knight."
Darien Gautier: "Oh, I can be very grateful, my lady."
Valsirenn: "Maybe we just leave him. I'm sure the Ritemaster would understand."

If this is your first meeting, he'll greet you with:

"Well this is awkward. Here I am, Meridia's champion, covered in webs and held at the mercy of unsettling spider people. Thanks for rescuing me though.
I would have freed myself at some point. I was just working up to it, that's all."

Otherwise, he'll say:

"Well, this is awkward. You're probably wondering how your old friend Darien became Meridia's champion and got stuck in all this sticky webbing. It's a funny story, really.
Probably better if I wait to tell it until after we escape from this realm."
You're the Golden Knight? The same one that's been trying to contact us?
"Guilty as charged! Meridia sent me to offer my assistance, but those other Princes, they kept interfering. And then I was dragged into this pit of spider harlots!
Look, we can catch up on things later. Right now we need to get outta here."
You're right. Let's get out of here.
"There's one small problem. We can't just walk through a door to get back to Tamriel. Believe me, I tried!
How did you find me, by the way? Mephala specifically said she was putting me someplace where no one would ever think to look."
I retrieved the Dawnstar gem when you dropped it. It led me right to you.
"Oh. Right. The gem. That makes sense. I perfectly understand. You need Meridia's champion so here I am. And with the gem, I can repair Dawnbreaker!
Just so you know, I feel awful. I am in no condition to fight at the moment."
Stay close. I'll get you out of here. (Ends conversation)
I've been looking for you for a long time, Darien. (If you've met before)
"I knew you wouldn't abandon me! Not after everything we've been through. Maybe now we can...no, let's save that for after we save the world.
As happy as you've made me, you need to know something. I'm in no condition to fight at the moment."
Stay close. I'll get you out of here. (Ends conversation)

As you fend of Daedra, Valsirenn will open a portal to Artaeum, through which everyone evacuates.

Lost in Translation[edit]

After returning from Ebon Stadmont, you'll find Darien and Valsirenn outside the tower:

Valsirenn: "Your wounds, they're just … gone!"
Darien Gautier: "I've always healed fast, Val. I can call you Val, right?"
Darien Gautier: "Give me a moment. I'd like to chat with our friend."
Valsirenn: "Of course. Then go to the Dreaming Cave. The Ritemaster's ready to begin."

Speaking to Darien, he'll say:

"I wanted to thank you again for getting me out of Mephala's realm. It wasn't anything like I originally imagined.
Oh, and I wanted to let you know that I was able to repair the Dawnbreaker. The sword's power should allow us to breach the barrier."
Looks like you're fully recovered.
"No thanks to the Psijic healers! I thought they were going to slice me open to try to figure out what makes me ... well, me!
I'm glad you stopped by, though. I wanted to talk to you. In private."
What do you want to talk about?
"This might sound like a strange question. In fact, depending on how you answer it, it is a strange question.
Do you—do you remember me? I'm not talking about here in Summerset. I mean—from someplace else."

If you've met Darien before, the dialogue will be following:

Of course I remember you. I thought we lost you in Coldharbour.
"Yeah, it was terrible. One moment I'm fighting Molag Bal and the next I'm stuck in the Colored Rooms without any kind of explanation.
I tried everything I could think of to get out of there, but nothing worked until Meridia gave me this mission."
So you didn't die?
"I thought I did. After the big flash of light, I remember floating. Then there was more light. Meridia was there. She told me I was in her realm.
Other than her lectures, it was pretty boring. Come to think of it, those were pretty boring, too."
You said Meridia gave you a mission?
"Oh yeah. She said I was supposed to help you stop the Daedric Princes. To keep them from reaching the Crystal Tower. Problem is, she didn't tell me how we're supposed to do that. And now I can't seem to reach her.
Hate to admit it, but I'm worried."

If Summerset is the first location you meet Darien, the dialogue will be following:

Not that I can recall. The first time I saw you was when you were wearing your golden armor.
"You don't remember me? I was afraid of that. Meridia told me that time worked differently in Oblivion, but I didn't believe her. What's happened to me hasn't happened to you yet.
That doesn't matter now. What matters is I found you."
Why does it matter that you found me?
"Meridia told me about the triad of Daedric Princes. And she told me about you. Even sent me to help you defeat them.
Of course, she conveniently forgot to tell me how to do that, and she's stopped responding to my requests. Has me a little worried."
Why are you telling me this?
"Not everyone gets a choice about the battles they fight. My Prince ... she's all right, but she's not big on free will.
I wanted you to know that you aren't beholden to a higher power. You can decide what you want to fight for."

Regardless of the above, you continue:

Let's go get the Heart back.
"Fixing the Dawnbreaker was surprisingly easy, by the way. Especially considering that I never repaired a Daedric artifact before."
Before we go to the Dreaming Cave, can I ask you a few questions?
"Questions? Not like a test or anything, though, right? Tests give me a rash. But sure, yeah, what would you like to know?"
I haven't seen you in a long time. How have you been?
"Being in the Colored Rooms was fun at first. Those Golden Saints were pleasant to look at.
Their personalities leave a lot to be desired, though. I had better conversations with the floating rocks than with those shining arses."
Why did Meridia send you to her realm?
"I ask myself that question every day. Meridia said I had a purpose, but she refused to elaborate. She said I'd recognize it when the time was right.
Nothing more comforting than a Daedric Prince being all vague about your fate."
What does Meridia want you to do?
"Help you. She talked about you a lot, as a matter of fact. We've already stopped one Daedric Prince together, right? How hard can it be to stop three?"
You're not Breton, are you? / You look Breton, but what are you really?
"I wish I knew the answer to that. I remember my father well enough. He was a Breton, but I never met my mother. In fact, now that I think about it, my entire childhood is kind of a blur.
I never questioned that. I'm not really sure why."
Did Meridia tell you anything?
"Meridia only ever told me I was her vessel. I can't say I remember volunteering for that job, though.
I have her magic inside me. I've had it all my life. I can feel it. But why? I have so many questions."
Such as?
"Who I am? What I am? Why the amazing good looks and roguish charm if I'm just here to stomp on Meridia's enemies? I mean, I guess if I was a Prince, I'd want a dashing champion, so I can't blame her for that."

If your character is female, you can flirt with Darien:

Do you always walk around strangers half-dressed?
"Hey, I got stabbed a bunch, remember? You can't examine battle wounds with your armor on.
Besides, this sea air is good for the skin. Ask anyone."
[Persuade] I could get used to this.
"I'll try not to distract you too much until after we've saved this world
After that? I don't have any plans if you don't."
You should keep your clothes on.
"Ouch. That hurts. I've worked hard for this body, you know.
Well, I think I did. My memories have been hazy of late."

As you enter the Dreaming Cave, Darien will call out:

Darien Gautier: "Wait! Don't start without me!"

Speak to him before talking to the Ritemaster, and he'll say:

"I'm getting sick and tired of barriers and Daedric interference and Daedra in general.
Talk to the Ritemaster and let's get this started already."

After speaking to Ritemaster lachesis, he'll give Darien directions:

Ritemaster lachesis: "Sir Darien, deal with this barrier, if you please."
Darien Gautier: "My pleasure!"

Once the barrier is down, you can speak to Darien before entering the portal:

"One of these days we're going to meet up in a tavern and there won't be any Daedra or monsters or evil necromancers trying to destroy the world and kill us all.
One of these days...."

After going through the portal and seeing Ritemaster lachesis poor state, Darien will comment:

"Old wizard doesn't look so good. I think the trip into Oblivion took a lot out of him.
But we're here, right? Can't he just say the magic words so we can find the Heart and get out of here? No, I suppose not. That would be too simple."

After walking around a bit, Darien can be talked to:

"First Mephala and now Nocturnal. I'm really getting good at stumbling into realms of hostile Daedric Princes!
Let's do what we have to and get out if here."

Coming across the first Shrike Gloom Siren, Darien will of course comment on their attire:

Darien Gautier: "Nocturnal's minions aren't exactly modest, are they? Not that I'm complaining."

Upon encountering a Blackfeather Crow, you'll hear:

Blackfeather Crow: "The featherless one walks the path once more. But where is the pretty crystal he carried last time?"
Darien Gautier: "Did that bird just talk? You heard that, right?"
Ritemaster lachesis: "Pay the crows no mind. They're nothing but an annoyance."

When spoken to after this:

"Talking crows? What will these Daedric Princes think of next?"
"Talking birds and half-naked Daedra. Now this is a realm I could get used to!
I mean, except for the birds. And the fact that the half-naked Daedra want to kill us. But hey, it's better than most realms I've been trapped in."

Darien will continue to quip on the way up the mountain:

Darien Gautier: "Remind me to wear lighter armor the next time we have to climb a mountain."

Encountering a Blackfeather Crow again, the following exchange will play:

Blackfeather Crow: "The featherless one couldn't resist the Sea Sload, not on his own."
Ritemaster lachesis: "What nonsense is this?"
Blackfeather Crow: "He doesn't remember! So desperate he was, he leaped at our Mistress's offer!"
Ritemaster lachesis: "Speak plainly, crows! Come back here!"
Valsirenn: "lachesis, calm down. Their words mean nothing."
Darien Gautier: "This is getting stranger and stranger."

When spoken to after the exchange:

"I'm not usually the skittish sort, but those crows are starting to creep me out!"

Speaking to him after talking to the Ritemaster:

"Why are the realms of Daedric Princes always so ominous and evil looking? You'd think they'd get bored with all the forlornness and tribulation."

As you start to reach the apex:

Darien Gautier: "Be ready for anything!"

Upon reaching the portal, a scene plays out:

Darien Gautier: "The path ends here."
Ritemaster lachesis: "I remember this."
Valsirenn: "lachesis, what are you saying?"
Ritemaster lachesis: "I'm saying I remember taking the Heart through that portal."

If you speak to Darien at this point, he'll say:

"I hope the old man remembers something or we climbed all this way for a whole lot of nothing."

Speaking to him after talking to the Ritemaster:

"I feel one of those momentous occasions coming on. You know, the ones where we do something amazing and save the day, or we die horribly in a blaze of glory. Yeah, one of those."

Speaking to Darien after reaching the mountain top, he'll say:

"Didn't the old man mention an ancient ruin? Let's keep climbing until we find it."

Upon reaching the shrine:

"This must be the place. I wonder where the old man hid the tower crystal?"

Once the Daedric princes appear, Darien will express concern:

Darien Gautier: "Uh oh. Mephala and Clavicus Vile. This could be bad."

During the subsequent battle, Darien informs you when he is able to use Dawnbreaker, with any of the following:

Darien Gautier: "Command me and I'll use the sword's power!"
Darien Gautier: "Tell me when to unleash Dawnbreaker's power!"
Darien Gautier: "Dawnbreaker is ready! Just give the command!"

As the battle progresses:

Darien Gautier: "Where do all these Daedra keep coming from?"

After Nocturnal kills the Ritemaster, Darien urges Valsirenn to get you all out of here:

Valsirenn: "No!"
Darien Gautier: "We need to go. Now."
Valsirenn: "Ritemaster … damn it! Hang on, I'll get us out of here!"

After Iachesis' death, Darien squares off against Nocturnal, to no avail:

Darien Gautier: "Dawnbreaker will protect us! I hope."
Nocturnal: "Meridia's vessel. You have no power here!"
Darien Gautier: "I'll show you power, you monster?"
Nocturnal: "The sword of light. I'll take that."
Darien Gautier: "My sword! I just fixed that!"

Speaking to Darien back in the Dreaming Cave:

"Well, that could have gone better. I know it looks bad, but... aw, who am I kidding? It is bad!
I'm sorry Nocturnal killed the old man. And took the Heart. And took my damn sword!"

After completing Lost in Translation, when Darien is spoken to in the Dreaming Cave, he expresses his frustration at not being able to help.

"I hate this! I was supposed to save everybody. That's what Meridia sent me here to do. I am not used to failing so spectacularly. Not used to it at all."

A Necessary Alliance[edit]

At the start of the quest, when Darien is spoken to in the Dreaming Cave, he expresses his frustration at not being able to help.

"I hate this! I was supposed to save everybody. That's what Meridia sent me here to do. I am not used to failing so spectacularly. Not used to it at all."

After talking to Sotha Sil, Darien will enter and tell you you're needed elsewhere. He interrupts himself to comment on the god standing in the room:

Darien Gautier: "You need to go to Valsirenn's study right now. There's a problem.
Darien Gautier: "He's really... tall."
Sotha Sil: "Knight of Meridia, stay and talk with me."

If you speak to him directly, he'll say:

"I hate to say it, but I think your friend Valsirenn has lost it. She—well, you should go to her study and see for yourself."

Upon arriving to assist him at Crystal Tower, he'll say:

Darien Gautier: "Stay focused, Sapiarch! We'll deal with the Daedra."

Once the platform is secured:

Darien Gautier: "This platform is safe. Go. I'll finish up here."

With the death of Sapiarch Rundirwe and Sapiarch Illmildil, Darien will comment:

Darien Gautier: "The Sapiarchs are dead. Now what do we do?"

Return to Valsirenn and the ritual will go wrong, killing Sapiarch Illmildil and Sapiarch Rundirwe.

Valsirenn: "Damn it, no!"
Razum-dar: "That was unexpected, yes?"
Darien Gautier: "The Sapiarchs are dead. Now what do we do?"

Speaking to him afterward, he'll say:

"The poor Sapiarchs. They tried to speed up their ritual despite the risks, and all they accomplished was to get themselves killed.
I don't know about you, but I'm losing confidence in the Psijic Order's ability to see us through this crisis."

Valsirenn will tell Darien to collect the diamond keys, but Darien has other plans:

Valsirenn: "Darien, gather the diamond keys. The Psijic Order will do what the Sapiarchs could not."
Darien Gautier: "No. I m done with the Psijic Order. Too many deaths, not enough action."

If you speak to him, he'll explain:

"Val and the Psijics, they're too set in their ways. We need a better plan.
I'll return to Artaeum with her, because Meridia told me to cooperate. But as soon as I think of something more effective. I'll let you know."

When you next meet up with Darien, he and Earl Leythen will be at the Cathedral of Webs looking for a way in:

Darien Gautier: "Hurry up, Leythen! They could find us at any moment!"
Earl Leythen: "Something's wrong."
Darien Gautier: "Wrong? Why doesn't that surprise me?"

When you speak to Darien, he'll try to explain:

"Now don't get mad, but there's a perfectly good explanation for why Leythen and I busted out of Artaeum and came to this charming little "hideaway"."
I'm listening, Darien.
"The intentions of the Psijics are good, but we're running out of time. From what we saw at the gatehouse, Nocturnal has already taken control of the Crystal Tower.
Drastic action is called for and Leythen's agreed to put us in contact with Mephala."
Is that really such a good idea?
"Not you, too! I got enough doubt and dirty looks back in Artaeum!
Look, Mephala was betrayed by Nocturnal. It stands to reason she might want to help us. And we could certainly use the power since I still can't make contact with Meridia."
You're right. Making an alliance with the betrayed Princes is our best option right now.
"I knew I could count on you!
As for Leythen, you should talk to him. We can make him pay for his crimes later Right now, we need him to help us or we could lose everything."

Speaking to him again before talking to Leythen:

"Trust me. Just talk to Leythen and let him explain what he's thinking. He's actually not that bad a person … for an evil, power-hungry cultist, that is."

Speaking to him before entering the Cathedral of Webs:

"Looks like Leythen got the door open. Let's head inside."

If you see other players doing this quest at the Cathedral, you'll see mercenaries following them instead of duplicates of Darien.

Entering the ruin, the two comment on the destruction:

Earl Leythen: "How did this happen? My people should have been safe within these walls."
Darien Gautier: "Nocturnal's been eliminating the sects of the other Princes. Are you surprised she'd turn on her former allies?"
Earl Leythen: "I recruited most of these men and women. I was responsible for them."
Darien Gautier: "Scout ahead and find the shrine. I'll stay with Leythen until he's ready to move on."

Speaking to him afterward:

"Leythen needs a moment to come to grips with what happened here.
Go find the shrine. I'll make sure he's all right and we'll catch up with you."

Darien Gautier and Leythen join you upon Earl Tundilwen's (Veya Releth) appearance:

Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth "It pains me that it had to end this way, but my Mistress will not be denied."
Earl Leythen: "Butcher! How dare you pretend to care about the men and women you slaughtered!"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "Every action I performed was in the service of Nocturnals grand plan."
Darien Gautier: "Leythen, she has my Dawnbreaker. Ask her if she'll kindly return it."

You can ask Darien about Dawnbreaker at this point:

"Look what they did to Dawnbreaker! It's all dark and gloomy now! It was a weapon of pure light and they corrupted it!"
What did you mean, Nocturnal's earl has your sword?
"You don't remember what happened in Nocturnal's realm? After she killed the Ritemaster? She took Dawnbreaker and corrupted it. I thought it was lost forever, but I guess she gave it to her earl.
I need to get it back. Somehow."

After Leythen crosses the chasm to chase after Nocturnal's earl, Darien rushes to a nearby door to attempt to follow them, asking you to follow:

Darien Gautier: "Leythen, no! Come on, we can't let them get away!"

If you speak to him at the door, he'll say:

"I want to trust Leythen, but even I have to admit that this doesn't look good. Let's try to catch up with them before something even more terrible happens down here.
I'd hate to think I set Leythen free just so he could betray us."

Upon catching up to the earls:

Earl Leythen: "This magic, it destroys everything! What good is power if there's nothing left to rule?"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "This is what the Court wanted all along. An end to the old ways. A new beginning."
Earl Leythen: "I won't be party to the death of innocents! I won't—"

<Earl Tundilwen incapacitates Leythen withe corrupted Dawnbreaker.>

Darien Gautier: "Let him go!"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "Be silent, knight, or I'll let you taste the blade you once carried. I wish to speak to your friend now."

After speaking to Nocturnal's earl, you can speak to Darien again:

"I understood about half of what that crazy Dark Elf told you, but it didn't sound like something that's going to make either me or Meridia very happy."

After talking to Leythen about how to communicate with Mephala:

Earl Leythen: "Darien, go the other way and meet us in the back chambers. We want to make sure Nocturnal's earl didn't leave us any surprises."
Darien Gautier: "I'll go, but if this is just a ploy so you can betray us, you'll have to deal with me."

Speaking to Darien as he guards the way back:

"Watch your back. I trust Leythen. Sort of. But you can never tell with the servants of Daedric Princes. Well, except for me. I'm nothing like those people.
Anyway, I'll meet you in the back chambers."

While battling Krezzinlor, Darien finally reaches the room and joins the fight:

Earl Leythen: "Destroy that creature and then I can contact my Prince!"
Darien Gautier: "There you are! This place is—Meridia's light! What is that thing?"

After speaking to Mephala and she vanishes:

Darien Gautier: "That's it? A maybe?"
Earl Leythen: "I'll return to Artaeum with Darien and tell them what we learned. Meet us there."

Speaking to Darien afterward:

"Why are the Daedric Princes always so aloof and ominous? Would it be asking too much to just get a straight answer out of them once in a while?
Ah, well. I'll make sure Leythen gets back to Artaeum and meet you there."

The Crystal Tower[edit]

You can find Darien sitting at a table in the Ceporah Tower's library, having a drink:

Darien Gautier: "Psijics must be wine drinkers, because this ale they make tastes awful."

Speak with him.

"I brought Leythen back and what does Valsirenn do? Sends me off without a word or a thank you.
So when do we head out to assault the Crystal Tower? No one tells me anything around here."
We're heading to the Dreaming Cave. Hopefully, Vile and Mephala will honor their end of the bargain.
"I knew I could count on you! You're always straight with me. I appreciate that.
Still, the last time I went off to fight a Daedric Prince, there was a celebration. A party! This time, it's just us."
You're upset because no one is celebrating?
"What? No, no, no! I didn't mean it like that. I just mean, back then, there were more familiar faces. Friends who I knew had my back. Charging into battle with allies I trusted—there was a comfort in that.
Here, I'm practically a stranger."
You can count on me.
"And trust me, I am grateful for that. You're kind of like me in a lot of ways, aren't you? An outsider caught up in things we don't fully understand?
Whatever happens, when this is over, let me buy you a drink. Then we can have a proper celebration!"

Speaking with him again afterward:

"I'm going to finish my ale before I head to the Dreaming Cave. I mean, it could be my last drink. Even if this tastes terrible, it's still alcohol.
On second thought, maybe I'll just have some water."

Speaking with him in the Dreaming Cave:

"I've learned to trust my instincts over the years. The problem this time, though, is my instinct is telling me to run far, far away.
That wouldn't be very heroic now, would it? Into the fray we go, my friend. Even if it might be for the last time."

During the meeting with Sotha Sil:

Barbas: "I'll lead you through the Fields of Regret to reach the Crystal Tower."
Darien Gautier: "Hey! That dog just talked!"
Earl Leythen: "I can establish contact with Mephala. She's ready to appear if you're willing to lower the defenses."
Sotha Sil: "Oriandra, Valsirenn, assist me. Let us open a path and not keep the Prince of Secrets waiting."

Darien scoffs as Mephala takes her leave:

Mephala: "Remember, if any of you stray from the protection of the Resolute Anchor, you'll be lost in the nothingness between realities.
Mephala: And know that I will be watching."
Darien Gautier: "Can she do that? I hate being spied on!"

Before heading to the portal, Darien approaches Oriandra:

Darien Gautier: "Oriandra, if I die saving the world, know that our brief time together has made me a better man."
Oriandra: "What are you talking about?"
Darien Gautier: "Shh, it's all right to cry. I'll do my best to return to you, I promise."
Oriandra: "What just happened? What's that crazy knight talking about?"

Upon arriving in the Fields of Regret:

Darien Gautier: "I bet Nocturnal knows we're coming. So much for the element of surprise."
Earl Leythen: "Where's Vile's Hound? Has he abandoned us already?"

Speak to him and he'll say:

"I suppose I'm ready. As long as you're ready, that is. You are ready, right? Of course you are. You're always ready."

Upon catching up to Barbas:

Barbas: "Bother and bones! Nocturnal sends creatures into our realm? Not while Barbas is on guard! Skaafin, come forth!"
Earl Leythen: "Where are you going, creature?"
Barbas: "I promised to show you the way. There, follow that path. That's the way to the tower. Now, I have a realm to defend!"
Darien Gautier: "I don't think I like Barbas very much."

Speaking to him before talking to Barbas once at the doors to the Crystal Tower:

"Vile's dog-man wants to talk to you, not me!"

Speaking to him after talking to Barbas but before entering the tower:

"All realities, huh? I can't even imagine.
Well, go ahead. I'll be right behind you."

Upon entering the tower, your companions comment on the state of the inside:

Darien Gautier: "This place looks surprisingly intact."
Earl Leythen: "The interior and the exterior of such places rarely coincide perfectly. I pity the Sapiarchs that were present when Nocturnal unleashed this magic."

Speaking to him afterward:

"I'm not sure what I expected, but it wasn't this. Are you sure we're in the right place?
What am I saying? Of course you're sure!"

Venturing deeper into the tower you will arrive to what is seemingly a dead end:

Darien Gautier: "A dead end? Did we make a wrong turn?"

<The tower then morphs and expands in real time, revealing a path forward.>

Earl Leythen: "Wait. The tower ... it's moving. Fascinating! It appears to be reconfiguring itself!"
Darien Gautier: "Then let's get moving before the tower remakes this platform out of existence!"
Earl Leythen: "I expect we'll see more evidence of this malleable nature the higher we climb."

Upon arriving in the artefact vault:

Darien Gautier: "Look at this place! Part of the ceiling has fallen in!"
Earl Leythen: "Yes, but what happened to the shadow Sapiarchs? They were thick as crows on the lower levels."

Speaking to Darien afterward:

"Don't look at me. I've never had a lot of luck in museums."

Venturing deeper into the vault, you will encounter a lone Sapiarch who is still alive thanks to a relic protecting her. The wall shifts and a Guardian Atronach manifests.

Sapiarch Nolyemal: "Stay... stay back!"
Darien Gautier: "Really? A walking volcano?"

Speaking to Darien after defeating the atronach:

"I'll let you ask the questions."

Upon approaching the Sapiarch:

Sapiarch Nolyemal: "I don't know how you entered the tower ... but you must get out of here."
Darien Gautier "She's still alive! We have to help her."
Sapiarch Nolyemal "No, stay back! The relic that protects me, it's failing. You can't help me."
Earl Leythen: "She's right. Look how she's starting to fade."

Afer you have spoken with Sapiarch Nolyemal, Leythen attempts to ease her pain as she ceases to exist:

Sapiarch Nolyemal "I don't want to die!"
Earl Leythen: "Let me help you. Clear your mind."
Sapiarch Nolyemal: "It's so hard ... to concentrate ...."
Earl Leythen: "Think of your loved ones. Picture their faces and my magic will help you."
Sapiarch Nolyemal: "I see them. The pain ... is fading. I can see—"

<Sapiarch Nolyemal evaporates into shadows.>

Darien Gautier: "She ... she's gone."
Earl Leythen: "Her last moments were peaceful. I saw to that."

Speaking to Darien afterward:

"Now what? I hate these kind of puzzles!"

Upon finding and examining the ballista:

Darien Gautier: "The dying Sapiarch was right! That is a ballista!"
Darien Gautier: "It's not broken, it's just missing a few parts. Look around while I get the rest of it back in working condition."

If you try to ask him what you're looking for, he'll say:

"This ballista will pack a punch big enough to open a path out of here. Just find any pieces that look like they might be part of a siege engine like this."

Speak with Darien once you have the parts.

"That should do it. I just need a crank, a rope, and some ballista bolts!"
Here's what I was able to find.

Darien exclaims as the ballista becomes primed and ready for use:

Darien Gautier: "That should work. Let's blast a way out of here."

Once you've broken through the wall:

Darien Gautier: "Now that's how to clear a path! I need one of those!"

Upon reaching the library:

Earl Leythen: "Curious. From the opening in the ceiling, it appears that we're no longer in Vile's realm."
Darien Gautier: "So that's what they meant when they said the tower was in every realm at the same time!"

Speaking to him in the library:

"I'm not big on libraries, either. Smells too much like old books."

Head to the main floor of the library and get the gate key. Suddenly, Nocturnal's earl appears as a projection:

Darien Gautier: "Where did she come from?"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "Nocturnal's started to repair Transparent Law. Soon none of this will matter."
Earl Leythen: "No, you mustn't do this!"
Darien Gautier: "You can't reason with crazy, Leythen. Besides, we've got company!"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "How observant, knight."

While battling the shadow monsters she summons.

Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "Why do you insist on prolonging your pain, Leythen?"
Earl Leythen: "You know nothing about pain!"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "A pity. I thought we were the same. No matter. Your quest ends here."
Darien Gautier: "Enough! Just hand over the damn key!"
Earl Leythen: "She's just trying to slow us down. Meet up at the gate pedestal!"

Speaking with Darien after the fight is done:

"I'm starting to hate that sword-stealing witch!"

Speaking to Darien before talking to Leythen about the faulty key pedestal, he'll tell you:

"Talk to Leythen. I'm not a locksmith!"

Run through the gate held open by Leythen. The moment you cross the threshold, an umbral wind forces the gate shut.

Darien Gautier: "The gate! Leythen, watch out!"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "I have to stop you here. All of you."
Earl Leythen: "I wondered if you'd actually show yourself instead of just projecting menacing images."
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "A closed gate won't save them, Leythen!"
Earl Leythen: "No, but this will keep you busy for a time."
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "What? No!"

When Nocturnal's earl tries to stop you, Leythen binds her with his magic and teleports off with her, away from the protection of the Resolute Anchor.

Darien Gautier: "Where'd they go?"
Darien Gautier: "Is Leythen ... gone?"

<Leythen reappears at the gate.>

Earl Leythen: "That should keep her busy ... for a short time, at least."
Darien Gautier: "Um, why are you glowing?"

Speaking to Darien before talking to Leythen at the gate:

"Why is Leythen all dark and glowy? He didn't stay close to the anchor, did he?"

When your conversation with Leythen is over, he is consumed by the darkness. After a brief moment of silence, Darien reminds you of the task you came here to do.

Darien Gautier: "We should ... we should keep moving. There's nothing more we can do here."

Speaking to Darien after Leythen's death:

"Come on. Leythen gave us a chance. We can't let his sacrifice be in vain."

While ascending the Tower, Darien notices that you are now in a different realm:

Darien Gautier: "Nocturnal's realm... we've gotta be nearing the top of this thing."

Shortly afterward, Nocturnal's earl's voice rings out through the ruined tower:

Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "You thought Leythen could stop me? He's only delayed the inevitable!"
Darien Gautier: "Ignore the creepy voice. We have to keep going."

Open the door to the Tower Summit Approach and climb the stairs. Nocturnal's earl interrupts your ascent.

Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "That's far enough! My Mistress can't be interrupted! Her work is too important."
Darien Gautier: "Give me the damn Dawnbreaker back!"
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "Come and get it!"

During the battle against the earl, Darien will warn you when she is performing her arena-wide attack:

Darien Gautier: "Stay back!"

Defeat Nocturnal's earl. When you exhaust her energy, she will fall to her knees.

Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "I don't understand. Why didn't the sword protect me?"
Darien Gautier: "Because Dawnbreaker was never intended for you."
Earl Tundilwen/Veya Releth: "Meridia's magic is gone. The blade isn't yours anymore, either."
Darien Gautier: "We'll see about that."

Darien tries to pick up Dawnbreaker, and Veya dies. Suddenly, the room is flooded with thick shadow. As the darkness rapidly closes in and consumes the Summit Approach entirely, Nocturnal can be heard.

Darien Gautier: "No!"
Nocturnal: "Join Meridia in my eternal darkness!"

Suddenly, Darien shines brightly and repels Nocturnal's shadows.

Darien Gautier: "We are ... not ... dying ... like this!"
Darien Gautier: "That worked? I mean ... I mean ... I mean, of course that worked. I just need a moment ...."
Darien cleanses Dawnbreaker

Speak with Darien and recollect yourselves.

"Nocturnal's earl was wrong. Meridia's power, it's not gone. Her magic remains strong and vibrant.
The vessel. The last Light of Meridia... it's me."
The vessel? The last Light? What do you mean?
"I finally understand everything Meridia told me. Her power, it's inside me. And with it I can remove the corruption from Dawnbreaker. I can fill the relic with divine energy again!"
Sotha Sil said we needed a relic with divine energy to repair the Translucent Law crystal.
"Then this is even better. You can use the restored Dawnbreaker to save the world. I just won't be around to see it happen.
I finally understand. I'm the vessel of Meridia. Her champion. But you're the key to stopping Nocturnal and saving reality."
Darien, what are you saying?
"I'm saying that you've got this. Whenever a threat appears, you bring the champions together. You find a way to win.
And I'll be at your side for this one final battle, just not in the way I originally expected."
Darien ... what are you doing?

Darien thanks you before he set out to perform his final duty:

Darien Gautier: "I'm returning the last of Meridia's power to the blade so you can stop Nocturnal. I wouldn't do this for anyone else."
Darien Gautier: "Thank you... for everything."

Darien takes hold of the corrupted Dawnbreaker. He and the sword then begin to shake and slowly become filled with radiant light, then Darien evaporates in a burst of golden light, leaving only the restored sword where he stood.

Notes[edit]

  • While introducing King Dynar to the Fighters Guild during The Army of Meridia, speaking with Darien after Dynar's appearance brings a slight change of text to the scene. Instead of addressing Dynar as the "last Ayleid king", he will simply refer to him as "the last Ayleid".
  • Jeremy Sera, Lead Content Designer for ESO, revealed on 10th May 2016 that it wasn't until the very end of Coldharbour development that they decided Darien should disappear during The Final Assault. He also revealed that the Manor of Revelry quest What the Heart Wants was originally supposed to involve Darien, instead of Stibbons.
  • Darien mysteriously disappears in the quest The Final Assault, with Meridia not mentioning him and Vanus and Gabrielle not knowing what effect the teleportation spell had on him, his fate being unknown until his reappearance as Meridia's Golden Knight in the Summerset chapter. However, several hints were given before then:
    • While liberating the town of Camlorn, you'll come across The Journal of Darien Gautier. In his journal he speaks of nightmares where he communes with a "glowing orb with light so intense that I have to shield my eyes". His nightmares also foretell of the Dark Anchors and of being in Coldharbour. Lastly he speaks of a "creature burst into flames as it drank my blood".
    • During Mists of Corruption, Darien notices he's not sickened by the mysterious mist surrounding Cath Bedraud like others. He is puzzled by this and is without an explanation.
    • During The Liberation of Northpoint when you rescue Darien from bloodfiends inside Northpoint, a bright flash of golden light kills the two bloodfiends attacking him and eliciting his response of "Well, that's never happened before." He also says the bloodfiends bit him, but by the time Countess Eselde he didn't have a single scratch on him, suggesting a healing factor that makes him immune to vampirism.
    • The note A Plea for Help—written by Darien—implies that he was transported to Meridia's realm, which can be mentioned to Gabrielle Benele if she is met in Anvil.
    • The Grand Prognosticator also mentions a "golden knight" in a prophecy about Summerset, referring to Darien.
    • Following his sacrifice to restore Dawnbreaker, further hints are once again provided as to his current status:
      • After finishing the Summerset main quest, a book can be found upstairs in the Summerset palace called Words of the Fallen, written by Darien, explaining that he is in the Colored Rooms again and "his light is fading, the darkness pressing in".
      • J'saad's Note mentions that Meridia is trying to find another knight to carry her light: One who will not betray her, One who must correct a previous mistake.
      • Ylahizu the Magnificent can summon a "Lost Spirit" that is wearing Darien's armor and wielding the Dawnbreaker.
  • He is voiced by Jon Curry (IMDb), who previously voiced Malborn in Skyrim.
  • Darien is also featured in Smolder Scrolls Online.
  • Quilting circles in Camlorn and Rivenspire dedicated to Darien make comforters and quilts in his honor. These items can be found as Treasures in the world.
  • Some of his correspondence to admirers can be found as Treasures in the game world.
  • While speaking to him on Artaeum during the quest Lost in Translation, he mentions interacting with Golden Saints and how pleasant they were to look at while he was stuck in the the Colored Rooms. However, Golden Saints are servants of Sheogorath, not Meridia.
    • Meridia does have golden servants, the Aurorans, but they are not particularly appealing to look at as he mentions, so his dialogue line still wouldn't make much sense.
  • During quests where Darien Gautier is your follower as the Golden Knight (and in possession of Dawnbreaker), he has a unique synergy you can use called "Dawnbreaker". Darien will pose with the sword glowing upon his chest and upon synergy use, it releases a burst of purifying magic around him, dealing very high magical damage to nearby enemies as well as stunning them.
†Darien's health value varies throughout the game. It's 60,370 during Crossing the Chasm. His health is 15,000 uring The Dreaming Cave, on Artaeum, at the Crystal Tower and Cathedral of Webs, and after the fight at the Tower Summit Approach. It's 79,900 while he follows you during Lost in Translation, A Necessary Alliance, and The Crystal Tower. While defending the ritual at the Crystal tower, within the Fields of Regret, and during the battle against Krezzinlor, his health is also 79,900.

Gallery[edit]

  • Darien shirtless

  • Darien as the Golden Knight

  • Darien (far right) near Northpoint

  • Darien sacrifices himself to restore Dawnbreaker

  • Darien resisting Duskbringer's influence and briefly displaying his true form as the last Light of Meridia

  • Promotional art (far left)

  • Artwork commemorating ESO's 10th anniversary

Retrieved from "https://en.uesp.net/w/index.php?title=Online:Darien_Gautier&oldid=3161854"