Saril Aren is a gruff, sarcastic Dunmer mercenary and accomplished two-handed warrior living in the Windhelm Grey Quarter.  The player first encounters him when looking for a way to reach Solstheim, and he acts as the main supporting character for the Solstheim arc of the story. He has a unique perspective as one of very few pro-Stormcloak Dark Elves: he feels that being a Nord is about more than just birth, and that the Dunmer should do more to participate in Skyrim's society and traditions to earn the trust of the native Nords rather than isolate themselves. The player has the opportunity to oppose or support this point of view. His father Savos is the current Arch-Mage of the College of Winterhold, but Saril's lack of magical talent led to a falling-out between the two of them years ago.  His personal story arc focuses on finding his place in the world and has a couple of different endings depending on player choices and opinions expressed over the course of the game. This character is a romance/marriage option.

While most Dunmer have British accents, an American accent is also acceptable for this character. Voice should be sort of raspy and drawling, with inspirations including Teldryn Sero and Garrus Vakarian. Tone is sarcastic and deflecting, but with warmth under the surface. Speech is sharp and somewhat aggressive, especially for combat lines.