Mastering the Become Ethereal Shout
The 'Become Ethereal' shout is an invaluable tool in Skyrim, granting temporary invulnerability and allowing you to traverse dangerous terrain or escape perilous situations unharmed. This guide details how to acquire all three words of power and effectively utilize this powerful Thu'um.
The 'Become Ethereal' shout is a defensive and utility shout that renders the user immune to all damage for a short duration. This means you can fall from great heights, walk through dragon breath, or escape a swarm of enemies without taking a single hit. It's a lifesaver in many challenging encounters.
To acquire the full 'Become Ethereal' shout, you will need to find three Dragon Words of Power scattered across Skyrim. These words are typically found at Dragon Walls, often guarded by dragons or other formidable foes.
Dragon Wall Locations for Become Ethereal:
| Word of Power | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ethereal | Ironbind Barrow | Found in the final chamber, often guarded by a dragon. |
| Form | Lost Valley Redoubt | Located within the main camp area, usually defended by Forsworn. |
| Spirit | Saarthal | Accessible during the College of Winterhold questline, 'Under Saarthal.' |
Once you have collected the three words of power, you will need to use a Dragon Soul to unlock each word at a Dragon Wall. The full shout, when all three words are unlocked, lasts for approximately 18 seconds.
Effective Uses of Become Ethereal:
- Fall Damage Immunity: Safely descend from high cliffs or mountains without taking any damage. This is particularly useful for shortcuts or reaching otherwise inaccessible areas.
- Escaping Combat: If you find yourself overwhelmed by enemies, activating 'Become Ethereal' allows you to disengage and reposition yourself or flee to safety.
- Traversing Hazards: Walk through areas filled with traps, poison gas, or intense magical effects without harm.
- Dragon Fights: Use it to avoid devastating dragon breath attacks or to close the distance safely when a dragon lands.
- Stealth Approaches: While not directly a stealth shout, it can be used to bypass heavily guarded areas or to get into a better position for a sneak attack.
Mastering 'Become Ethereal' can sificantly improve your survivability and open up new tactical possibilities in combat and exploration. It's a shout that every Dragonborn should strive to acquire and utilize effectively.