Most Rieklings communicate in squeaks and battle cries, but the Riekling Chief has somehow picked up a broken version of the common tongue. He leads the tribe that drove the Nords out of Thirsk Mead Hall on Solstheim, and by his own account they did it for the warm fire and the cold “dizzydrink”. Understanding him takes some effort, yet his message is consistent: his family is strong, you are stronger, so help the tribe.
In the Dragonborn expansion he is level 16 with 250 health and 160 stamina. He is unique, carries a common soul, and is the only Riekling who will actually hold a conversation with you.
Where to find them
The Chief stays inside Thirsk Mead Hall, surrounded by his tribe. The displaced Nords, led by Bujold the Unworthy, have retreated nearby and want their hall back.
Siding with the Rieklings
Speak to the Chief and he starts The Chief of Thirsk Hall, a short chain of errands:
- Bring back Bilgemuck, the tribe’s prized Bristleback, who fled after some Rieklings chased him off. The Chief’s advice: Bilgemuck loves meat, so offer some and he will follow.
- Gather ten Scathecraw, which the Rieklings call “redgrass” and need for a ritual dance.
- Help the tribe wipe out the Nords who still claim Thirsk.
When the Nords are dead, the Chief decides you are too strong and must want his title. Whatever you answer, he attacks. Once he falls, the remaining Rieklings accept the Dragonborn as their new Chief.
Siding with the Nords
Talk to Bujold instead and you can take on Retaking Thirsk. On this path, the Chief and his whole tribe die in the assault on the hall.
Notes
Before a fight, the Chief leads his warriors in a war chant in their own language, with the tribe roaring “Goora!” back at him. His own summary of Riekling tactics is “Stab and run! The tribe-kin way.”
