A Comprehensive Guide to Completing Boethiah's Calling in Skyrim

Introduction

Boethiah's Calling is a Daedric quest in Skyrim that involves betrayal, cunning, and a test of faith as players become an active participant in a deadly scheme orchestrated by the Daedric Prince Boethiah. By embarking on this quest, players will not only earn a powerful artifact but also gain insights into the nature of loyalty and power. This guide will provide a thorough, step-by-step walkthrough to make navigating this challenge as smooth as possible.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Starting the Quest

   • Locate the Shrine of Boethiah.
     • The shrine is found northeast of the Windhelm and slightly southwest of the abandoned shack near the edge of the mountains.
     • Approach the altar and listen to the words of the Daedric Prince, Boethiah. You will need to be at least level 30 to acquire the quest.
   • Accept the quest to “find the Sacrificial Offering”.
     • You will need to sacrifice someone in Boethiah's name.

2. Finding a Sacrificial Offering

   • Head to a nearby location with potential NPCs.
     • Towns like Windhelm or any of the more populated areas typically have NPCs you can engage.
   • Choose an NPC you can bring to the altar.
     • The most effective method is to look for a character who would not heavily impact your questing. Convince or manipulate them into following you.

3. Sacrificing the NPC

   • Return to the Shrine of Boethiah with your chosen follower.
     • Approach the altar where you originally encountered Boethiah.
   • Activate the altar to initiate the sacrificial procedure.
     • Follow on-screen prompts to complete the sacrificial act.
   • After the sacrifice, a vision will trigger, revealing Boethiah’s message and command.

4. Joining Boethiah’s Cult

   • You will find yourself in a Daedric realm where you need to prove your loyalty.
     • Speak to the NPCs in the vicinity; they will inform you of the tests you must complete to please Boethiah.
   • Participate in the following:
     • Fight to the Death: Engage in a fight with the other cultists. Defeating them will be necessary to earn Boethiah's favor.

5. Defeating the Other Worshipers

   • Engage in combat with the three remaining cultists.
     • Strategies for defeating the cultists:
       • Use stealth to sneak up on weaker opponents.
       • Make use of powerful magic or weapons to quickly eliminate foes if you prefer a direct approach.
     • Stay wary of their tactics and position to avoid being overwhelmed.

6. Achieving Boethiah’s Favor

   • After defeating the cultists, approach Boethiah's manifestation.
     • She will grant you the ability to wield the Ebony Blade, a powerful two-handed sword that absorbs health upon contact.
   • Accept your place as the champion of Boethiah.
     • This will complete the quest and yield any necessary accolades or rewards.

7. Exit the Quest Location

   • Ensure you loot any valuable items from the defeated cultists.
     • Return back to the real world through the portal that appears after completing the task.

8. Post-Completing the Quest

   • Explore your new powers and the implications of your new alignment with Boethiah.
     • Consider future Daedric quests you might want to take on.

Conclusion

Completing Boethiah's Calling is a unique experience in Skyrim that blends combat with the philosophical elements of loyalty and treachery. Following this detailed walkthrough, players can successfully navigate the trials set forth by Boethiah and emerge triumphant with the famed Ebony Blade. Embracing the chaos of Daedric influences can lead to powerful rewards, enriching the overall gameplay experience in Skyrim. Whether you're a new adventurer or a veteran hero, this quest adds a dark but thrilling layer to your journey through Tamriel.