Skyrim
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Table of contents

Complete Guide to the Skyrim Quest "Blood in the Water"

Introduction

In "Blood in the Water," a quest found in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, players are thrust into a web of intrigue and murder while navigating the treacherous underbelly of Windhelm. This quest is triggered during the "Darkness Returns" questline of the Thieves Guild. In this guide, we will provide a detailed step-by-step walkthrough to ensure you complete this mission successfully, uncover its secrets, and make the right choices for the best outcomes.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

  • Beginning the Quest

    • Locate Maven Black-Briar in Riften.
    • Speak with her to get the quest started after completing "Darkness Returns."
    • Maven will inform you that you need to investigate the recent murders connected to the Black-Briar family.

  • Traveling to Windhelm

    • Use your map to travel directly to Windhelm.
    • Once arrived, make your way to the Windhelm Docks area.

  • Gathering Information

    • Speak to Kust, the captain of the ship, at the docks to gather intel on the situation.
    • Head over to the Argonian Assemblage to learn more about the murders.
    • Engage with Drev and other Argonian NPCs to collect firsthand accounts regarding the victims.

  • Visiting the Cemetery

    • After gathering information, travel to the Windhelm Cemetery.
    • Look for the ghostly silhouettes and interact with them for clues.
    • Uncover the significance of the Skooma trade in the area relevant to the murders.

  • Investigating the Black-Briar Properties

    • Go to the Black-Briar Meadery.
      • Speak to Maven Black-Briar again to gain permission to search the estate.
      • Search through the estate for any journal entries or items related to the murders.
    • After this, explore Sadri's Used Wares to talk to Sadri about the murders and to see if he has insights related to the victims.

  • Finding Tracks of the Murders

    • Follow the trail left by the killer by exploring Windhelm's back alleys.
    • Look for signs of struggle near the water and examine discarded items.
    • Use your Skooma detection skills to find hidden stash sites.

  • Confronting the Culprit

    • Once you've pieced together all the clues, return to the docks.
    • Prepare for your confrontation with the murderer.
      • Equip armor and weapons you deem necessary.
    • Engage in dialogue to uncover their motives.

  • Final Choices and Outcomes

    • Depending on your dialogue choices, you have the option to:
      • Help the murderer escape and keep your newfound information to yourself.
      • Turn them in to the authorities for a clean resolution.
    • A choice will lead to different outcomes regarding your relations with the Black-Briar family and future quest lines.

Conclusion

Completing the "Blood in the Water" quest provides a thrilling experience filled with investigation, intrigue, and moral decisions impacting your standing with various factions. By following this detailed guide, you should easily navigate through the quest's complexities and emerge successful, no matter which path you ultimately choose. Enjoy the immersion of Skyrim’s rich narrative!