Why Won’t Talvas Fyr Train Me? A Comprehensive Guide to Tel Mithryn’s Enigmatic Apprentice

Talvas Fyr, the apprentice mage residing in the bizarre mushroom tower of Tel Mithryn, can be a frustrating figure for aspiring mages in Skyrim’s Dragonborn DLC. The straightforward answer to why he initially refuses to train you is: You haven’t earned his respect, or rather, you haven’t proven your worth to his demanding standards. Talvas is less interested in raw power and more concerned with initiative, problem-solving, and demonstrating a genuine understanding of magic beyond simple rote memorization. He’s looking for a collaborator, not just another student. Therefore, simply waltzing into Tel Mithryn and demanding training is a surefire way to be turned away. You need to actively engage with the quests and tasks presented by Neloth, his master, and show your aptitude for magical endeavors. The key to unlocking Talvas’s training lies in diligently completing quests for Neloth and impressing both master and apprentice with your magical prowess and resourcefulness.

Earning Talvas’s Respect: The Path to Training

The path to gaining Talvas’s tutelage isn’t a linear one. There isn’t a specific dialogue option or item you can find that instantly unlocks his training services. Instead, it’s a gradual process interwoven with the questlines offered by his master, Neloth.

• Begin by assisting Neloth: Focus on completing the various quests that Neloth offers. These often involve delving into Dwemer ruins, experimenting with exotic ingredients, and unraveling the mysteries of Solstheim. Neloth’s quests are the primary avenue for demonstrating your competence.

• Observe Talvas’s Reactions: Pay close attention to Talvas’s dialogue before, during, and after these quests. He subtly assesses your performance and commitment. Successfully navigating Neloth’s tasks will gradually improve his opinion of you.

• Choose Insightful Dialogue Options: When speaking with Talvas, opt for dialogue choices that reflect your understanding of magic and your interest in learning. Asking insightful questions, rather than simply requesting training, shows him that you’re genuinely dedicated to honing your skills.

• Demonstrate Magical Prowess: In the field, use your magic effectively and strategically. Talvas is more likely to be impressed by a mage who uses a variety of spells and adapts to different situations than by someone who relies on brute force.

• Persist and be Patient: It may take some time and the completion of multiple quests before Talvas offers you training. Don’t be discouraged if he initially rebuffs your requests. Continue to prove yourself through your actions and eventually, he will recognize your potential.

Understanding Talvas Fyr’s Character

Talvas is far from a typical Skyrim trainer. He’s portrayed as a studious, independent, and slightly arrogant mage. He is constantly under the watchful eye of Neloth. He also appears to be struggling with self-doubt, and feels the need to prove his own magical abilities. Unlike many trainers in the game who readily offer their services for a fee, Talvas is selective and guarded. He likely views training others as a significant responsibility and only wants to invest his time in those he believes are truly worthy. This makes earning his trust and unlocking his training a more rewarding accomplishment.

The Benefits of Training with Talvas

If you manage to convince Talvas to train you, he offers training in the Conjuration skill. Conjuration magic allows you to summon creatures to fight on your behalf, reanimate the dead, and banish summoned creatures. For mages looking to expand their magical arsenal, Talvas’s training can be invaluable.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. What specific quests from Neloth are most likely to impress Talvas?

Quests that showcase your resourcefulness, magical aptitude, and willingness to delve into dangerous situations are particularly effective. Quests involving exploring Dwemer ruins, such as “Reluctant Steward” and “Lost Knowledge” are great examples.

2. Does my character level affect Talvas’s willingness to train me?

While character level might indirectly influence your ability to complete Neloth’s quests successfully, it’s not a direct factor in Talvas’s decision. He focuses more on your demonstrated competence and understanding of magic.

3. What happens if I fail a quest for Neloth? Will that permanently prevent Talvas from training me?

Failing a quest for Neloth can set you back, but it’s not necessarily a permanent obstacle. You can still recover by succeeding in subsequent quests and demonstrating your worth. Learn from your mistakes and try again.

4. Is there a console command to force Talvas to train me?

While console commands can be used to bypass the normal gameplay mechanics, using them will detract from the sense of accomplishment and the intended challenge of earning Talvas’s respect. It is best to earn his respect through gameplay.

5. Can I become Talvas’s friend or build a deeper relationship with him?

While the game doesn’t offer options for a deep friendship or romance with Talvas, you can develop a respectful working relationship with him as you continue to assist Neloth and learn from him.

6. What happens if Neloth dies? Can I still get training from Talvas?

If Neloth dies, Talvas may have some dialogue changes, but training should still be available, provided you previously unlocked it. However, as Neloth gives the quests that give Talvas the impression, its advised to get training first.

7. Are there any skills or perks that can help me impress Talvas?

Skills like Conjuration, Destruction, and Alteration can be beneficial, as they showcase your overall magical proficiency. Perks that enhance your spellcasting efficiency and effectiveness can also indirectly impress him.

8. Does my race affect Talvas’s willingness to train me?

No. Skyrim’s NPCs generally don’t discriminate based on race when it comes to offering services or training.

9. Is it possible to accidentally make Talvas hostile towards me?

Yes. Attacking Talvas or stealing from him within Tel Mithryn will likely make him hostile, and you will not receive training from him at that point.

10. What should I do if Talvas is stuck in a loop of refusing to train me, even after completing multiple quests?

Try leaving Tel Mithryn for a few in-game days and returning. This can sometimes reset his dialogue and allow you to try again. If the problem persists, check online forums for potential bug fixes or workarounds.

11. Is there a specific dialogue option I should choose when asking about training?

There isn’t one magic phrase, but avoid sounding entitled or demanding. Instead, express your genuine interest in learning from him and acknowledge his expertise.

12. Can I get training from Talvas in multiple Conjuration skill levels, or just once?

Talvas will provide training up to a certain skill level, which is dependent on his own skill level as a trainer. Master-level conjuration trainers, for example, would offer training on skills between 75 and 90.

13. What happens if I’m already a very high level in Conjuration? Will Talvas still offer any benefits?

Even if you’re already skilled in Conjuration, Talvas can still offer valuable insights and perspectives, especially if you’re interested in delving deeper into the lore and intricacies of the skill.

14. Are there any books or items in Tel Mithryn that can help me learn Conjuration magic faster?

Tel Mithryn is filled with magical tomes and artifacts. Explore the tower thoroughly to discover books that can boost your Conjuration skill or provide valuable knowledge about the art of summoning.

15. Where can I find more resources for improving my gameplay?

If you’re interested in exploring the intersection of gaming and learning, check out the Games Learning Society website. They provide insight on how games can be used for educational purposes. More information can be found at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Conclusion: Persistence and the Rewards of Effort

Earning Talvas Fyr’s training is a testament to the depth and complexity of Skyrim’s world. It’s a challenge that rewards patience, dedication, and a genuine thirst for knowledge. By immersing yourself in the quests of Neloth, demonstrating your magical aptitude, and approaching Talvas with respect and humility, you can unlock his tutelage and further enhance your skills as a master conjurer. Remember, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination, and the lessons learned along the way will make you a more powerful and resourceful mage in the world of Skyrim.