Complete Guide to the "Balance of Power" Quest in Skyrim

Introduction

The "Balance of Power" quest in Skyrim is a critical part of the Dawnguard DLC, focusing on the alliances and conflicts between the Dawnguard and the vampire factions. This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step walkthrough to help you navigate the quest efficiently. Whether you're investigating the inner workings of the Dawnguard or confronting enemies head-on, this guide ensures you'll complete the quest with ease.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Starting the Quest
- Begin the quest by either joining the Dawnguard or having progressed sufficiently into the Dawnguard storyline.
- Speak with Isran at Fort Dawnguard. He will inform you about a mysterious figure called Lord Harkon and the threat he poses.
Gathering Information
- After your conversation with Isran, your next mission is to gather information on the vampire lord’s plans.
  - - Head to the town of Riften to speak with Maven Black-Briar. She can provide crucial information about Harkon’s movements.
    - Ensure you have a good speech skill or some gold on hand, as she may request a favor or payment for her insights. *
  - After learning about Harkon's intentions, you will need to travel to Dradur's lair to investigate further. * * At Dradur's lair, you will encounter several vampire thralls. Prepare for combat by equipping weapons and potions. * Eliminate the thralls and proceed deeper into the lair, searching for clues and other enemies along the way.
Confront the Enemies
- Once you find the relevant documents showcasing Harkon’s plans, you will be ambushed by a group of vampires.
  - - Use the environment to your advantage; the lair contains plenty of cover and choke points.
    - Keep an eye out for the Vampire Lord, a tougher enemy with access to powerful spells. *
  - After defeating the enemies, search their remains for the “Glaive of Legend,” an essential item for the next part of the quest.
Returning to Fort Dawnguard
- After securing the Glaive of Legend, return to Fort Dawnguard to report your findings to Isran.
  - - During your report, Isran will ask about your experiences in Dradur's lair, recounting everything you learned.
    - He will then task you with heading to a Vampire Crypt to retrieve a secret artifact. *
  - To prepare for the next quest phase, visit the forge within Fort Dawnguard to upgrade your equipment and stock up on healing potions.
Travel to the Vampire Crypt
- Locate the Vampire Crypt on your map; it is often found in the vicinity of the Dawnstar area.
  - - As you approach the crypt, remain vigilant for vampire ambushes. Don't hesitate to employ stealth or ranged combat.
    - Carefully navigate the underground pathways, avoiding traps and engaging enemies whenever necessary. *
  - Upon reaching the chamber housing the artifact, prepare for a boss fight against the Vampire Guardian. * * Utilize your strongest abilities and healing potions during this encounter; the Guardian can deal significant damage. * After defeating the Guardian, interact with the artifact to retrieve it and complete the objective.
Final Steps
- Return to Isran with the artifact in hand. He will express gratitude and provide you with additional quests.
  - - In light of the new information, Isran will brief you on the future steps of confronting Harkon and his followers.
    - Decide whether to accept further missions from Isran or to venture out and explore more of Skyrim. *
  - Ensure you've saved your game before making any critical decisions, as this quest can lead to branching paths in the story.

Conclusion

Completing the "Balance of Power" quest in Skyrim is integral in understanding the conflict between the Dawnguard and vampires. With this detailed guide, you’re equipped with the necessary knowledge to navigate the quest successfully, combat enemies, and gather key artifacts. Whether you're playing through the Dawnguard storyline or simply exploring the vast world of Skyrim, this experience will undoubtedly enrich your gameplay.