The dragons of Skyrim let out cries of victory and relief after the Dragonborn defeats Alduin, the World-Eater. Alduin represented a grave threat to the dragons, Skyrim, and all of Tamriel. By defeating him, the Dragonborn has saved the world from destruction. But what exactly are the dragons saying in their ancient dragon language after this monumental event? Let’s take a closer look.
Who is Alduin?
Alduin is considered the first-born of Akatosh, the dragon god of time. He is a black dragon and has ruled over Skyrim’s dragons for eras as the Nordic god of destruction. According to prophecy, Alduin is destined to destroy and consume the world, only to resurrect it so the cycle can begin anew. This cements him as a central figure in the mythology of Skyrim’s Nords who call this cycle the “end of time” or “the end of the world.”
Why did the Dragonborn need to defeat him?
Alduin was growing in strength and posed a dire threat to Skyrim and the rest of Tamriel. He had been resurrecting dragons across the land and his power was only increasing. The ancient Nord heroes who originally banished Alduin returned as spirits to help the Dragonborn learn the “Dragonrend” shout, which was crucial for bringing Alduin down to Nirn where he could be defeated. The Dragonborn pursued Alduin across Sovngarde and finally was able to slay him atop the Throat of the World. This victory saved the world from destruction.
How do dragons communicate?
Dragons have their own spoken and written language that is described as sounding guttural, like roaring beasts. Only a few words of the dragon language are known outside of the dragons themselves. The language is based on sounds and meanings, rather than spelling conventions. Dragons are able to harness the power of their language through verbal utterances known as “Thu’um” or Shouts. Masters of the voice like the Dragonborn can also Shout in the dragon language.
Dragons’ Exclamations After Alduin’s Defeat
The language of the dragons is complex and still largely a mystery to most mortals. But from what we know of dragon culture and history, we can surmise the kinds of exclamations and conversations the dragons might have had after Alduin’s downfall:
“Dovahkiin los ok dovahkriid.”
This phrase means “Dragonborn is the dragon slayer” or “Dragonborn is the dragons’ slayer.” The dragons acknowledge the Dragonborn as the one who defeated Alduin and ended his reign over dragonkind. They confer the title of “dovahkriid” or “dragon slayer” as a sign of honor and respect.
“Alduin mahlaan.”
The dragons would have proclaimed simply “Alduin is fallen” or “Alduin has fallen.” This solemn pronouncement marks Alduin’s defeat definitively. The World-Eater who had ruled over Skyrim for eras was finally slain by the Dragonborn’s hand.
“Pruzah!”
Some dragons undoubtedly cheered “Good!” or “Well done!” They recognize the Dragonborn’s incredible feat in bringing down one of the mightiest dragons to have ever lived. Alduin’s fall marks a major shift in the history of dragonkind, and the dragons cheer the start of this new age under the leadership of the Dragonborn instead of Alduin.
“Mu los vomindok.”
This phrase translates to “we are free.” With Alduin gone, the dragons are no longer compelled to follow him or subject themselves to his tyranny. They can assert their independence and forge their own paths. Some dragons may choose to continue living in isolation while others may decide to interact cooperatively with mortals like the Dragonborn.
“Onikiv nahkip sil.”
“His tyranny is ended” is how this statement translates. The dragons acknowledge that the cruel reign and oppression they suffered under Alduin is finally over thanks to the Dragonborn’s heroic actions. They will no longer be forced to serve the World-Eater or live in fear of him.
“Nust los mul.”
“It is a hopeful time” shows the dragons are optimistic for the future without Alduin ruling over them. They can move forward and have an opportunity to restore their race and culture in Skyrim. This marks a new hopeful chapter for dragons.
The Blades’ Reaction
| Blades Member | Reaction to Alduin’s Defeat |
|---|---|
| Delphine | “You did it! You truly are the Dragonborn. Thank you.” |
| Esbern | “Alduin has fallen! Thanks to you, the world will live on.” |
| Paarthurnax | “Well done, Dovahkiin. You have shown yourself mighty amongst the dovah.” |
The Blades, who helped guide and support the Dragonborn, express relief and gratitude at Alduin’s defeat. Delphine and Esbern, leaders of the Blades who helped discover Alduin’s return, thank the Dragonborn for fulfilling the prophecy. Even Paarthurnax, the wise dragon who turned against Alduin ages ago, commends the Dragonborn for defeating the World-Eater against all odds.
Other Dragons’ Reactions
Odahviing
Odahviing pledged allegiance to the Dragonborn after being bested at the Throat of the World. He would have said “Alduin mahlaan” solemnly but then celebrated the Dragonborn’s victory. As a dragon who chafed under Alduin’s leadership, he welcomes this new era.
Nahfahlaar
This grand red dragon served as a mount for Tiber Septim early in the Third Era. After Alduin’s defeat, he likely proclaimed “Dovahkiin los ok dovahkriid” in acknowledgment of the Dragonborn’s status as a great dragon slayer worthy of respect.
Durnehviir
Durnehviir was an undead dragon trapped in the Soul Cairn after bargaining with necromancers. Alduin’s downfall would have freed him from any control Alduin still exerted over him while in the Soul Cairn. He would have been overjoyed at the news.
Vuljotnaak
This ancient black dragon was sealed atop Bloated Man’s Grotto. When Alduin fell, Vuljotnaak would have sensed the shifting tide and thundered “Nust los mul!” He would have been invigorated by the renewed hope.
Numinex
Numinex was a dragon captured by King Olaf One-Eye and imprisoned in Dragonsreach. There is no record of Numexes’s exact reaction, but he surely would have felt Alduin’s downfall even from his cell and understood its significance.
Celebrations Across Skyrim
Word of the World-Eater’s demise spread quickly across the land. The people of Skyrim rejoiced at the news:
Whiterun
A great feast was held in Whiterun in the Dragonborn’s honor. Jarl Balgruuf proclaimed them the hero of the city. “Never before has such a mighty deed been done!” he declared. The townspeople cheered the Dragonborn’s name late into the night.
Windhelm
Though wary of outsiders, the Nords of Windhelm held a triumphant parade led by Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak. Songs were sung praising the heroism of the Dragonborn who felled Alduin and brought glory to Skyrim. Mead flowed freely throughout the streets.
Solitude
Jarl Elisif hosted a grand ball at her palace in thanks to the Dragonborn. Bards came from across the land to perform epic lays about the Dovahkiin. Elisif awarded the Dragonborn the highest honor to show Solitude’s eternal gratitude.
Riften
Though not usually one for open celebration, Riften flew colorful banners and the people danced in the streets. Everyone in the Ratway raised a mug to the Dragonborn’s monumental achievement. For once, mead was given out freely at the Bee and Barb.
Other Settlements
From the snowy halls of Winterhold to the boiling sands of the Alik’r Desert, people across Tamriel lifted their voices and tankards to the Dragonborn’s glory. Finally, the threat of Alduin had passed thanks to the Dovahkiin’s heroic deed.
Conclusion
Alduin’s defeat marked a turning point in Tamriel’s history. No longer would this evil dragon lord’s shadow hang over Skyrim. The dragons were now freed from Alduin’s tyranny as well. They expressed relief, hope, and optimism for a new era under the leadership of the mighty Dragonborn who showed courage in bringing down the World-Eater. People all across Skyrim and even other provinces celebrated their champion’s victory late into the nights. Songs were sung and tales were told about the Dovahkiin for generations.