Volendrung
A weight beyond steel: The Hammer of Might.
Volendrung reigns as one of Tamriel's most notorious Daedric artifacts, forged for Malacath, the Prince of Vengeance and Pariah. Unlike relics that rely on subtle enchantments, this warhammer embodies raw physical dominance, designed to pulverize foes while siphoning their vitality to empower its wielder. Its history is inextricably bound to the Dwemer's fall and the spiritual identity of the Orsimer people.
- Daedric Prince
- Malacath
- Artifact Type
- Warhammer
- Primary Effect
- Absorb Stamina
- Original Creators
- Dwemer Smiths (Disputed)
- Current Status
- Active Artifact
- Common Wielders
- Orc Champions
Lore & Background
Visually, Volendrung appears as a brutal construct of heavy iron and Daedric steel, adorned with skull motifs that mirror its violent purpose. It radiates a palpable aura of crushing pressure, often too great for the unworthy to lift without aid. Its enchantment is overt rather than subtle; the artifact seeks to overwhelm through sheer kinetic force, draining an opponent's endurance to fuel the relentless strikes of its master.
In Their Own Story
The air within the ruin grew suffocating as the hammer was lifted from its altar. It did not feel like cold metal, but a living weight that pulsed against the palm with a rhythmic throb. A low vibration hummed through the steel, resonating in the wielder's bones rather than their ears. When swung, the weapon seemed to anticipate the strike, exploding wood and stone before the head even connected. In the aftermath, silence returned to the ruin, broken only by the wielder's breath—labored, yet surging with unnatural energy.
Reader's Guide
Volendrung functions as a massive warhammer radiating potent Daedric energy. In combat, it does not merely strike; it drains the vitality of foes. Specifically, each impact siphons stamina from the enemy into the bearer, fueling further attacks and preventing exhaustion. This makes it ideal for sustained battles against armored opponents who rely on heavy physical exertion.
To acquire this artifact within Tamriel, seekers must travel to the Stronghold of Dushnikh Yal in the Reach. There, a coven of Orsimer worships Malacath at an abandoned shrine linked to 'The Cursed Tribe' quest. The trial involves resolving a dispute between Orc clans and proving worthiness to the Prince of Pariah. Success grants possession of the hammer, though accepting it binds the warrior to Malacath's code.
Only those who value strength above all else should touch this relic. It is most commonly wielded by champions of the Orcish people, who view it as a symbol of their patron deity's favor. The weapon demands respect and obedience; treating it lightly invites ruin. In the hands of a true champion, Volendrung becomes an extension of Malacath's will, crushing dissenters with undeniable force.
Did You Know?
- Volendrung is one of the few Daedric artifacts with origins potentially linked to Dwemer craftsmanship before being claimed by a Prince.
- In gameplay mechanics, it absorbs 50 points of stamina per hit from enemies in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
- Malacath uses this artifact to test the loyalty and strength of potential champions among his followers.
- The hammer is sometimes referred to as 'The Hammer of Might' within Orcish oral traditions.