Complete Walkthrough for the Dawnguard Questline in Skyrim

Introduction

The Dawnguard questline is one of the major expansions in Skyrim that introduces players to the ancient order of vampire hunters, the Dawnguard. The story revolves around the conflict between the Dawnguard and the vampiric forces led by Lord Harkon. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough to help you navigate through this exciting questline, ensuring you miss none of the key actions or quests along the way.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Begin the Quest

   • Travel to Whiterun and speak to a guard.
   • Depending on your gameplay, you may hear a rumor about vampires attacking or being hunted by a mysterious group, which prompts the quest to begin.
   • Alternatively, you can go directly to the “Fort Dawnguard” location east of Stendarr’s Beacon where you'll meet the Dawnguard members.

2. Join the Dawnguard

   • Once you arrive at Fort Dawnguard, speak to Isran, the leader.
   • After talking, agree to join the Dawnguard.
   • Isran will give you a few tasks to complete, including investigating the potential vampire threat.

3. Acquire Recruitment Tasks

   • Isran will ask you to find new members for Dawnguard.
   • Your first assignment usually involves collecting information about the vampires.
     • Speak to Dexion Evicus – Locate him in the Fort and have a conversation about his past and knowledge regarding vampires.
     • Find a Dwarven Crossbow – Isran may send you to retrieve this weapon from a nearby location, such as Dwarven ruins.

4. Vampire Hunting

   • Upon returning with the Dwarven crossbow, Isran will instruct you to investigate a vampire lair.
   • Equip the crossbow, then travel to the Bloodstone Chalice quest.
     • Enter the lair and defeat the vampire foes inside.
     • Search and collect items that will help the Dawnguard’s cause, including vampire dust and any unique weapons.

5. Confront the Vampire Lord

   • After gathering enough evidence of the vampire infestation, you will be directed to confront Lord Harkon.
   • Prepare yourself for a difficult fight, so gather potions, weapons, and armor for the battle.
   • Head to Castle Volkihar, the stronghold of the vampires.

6. Battle at Castle Volkihar

   • As you breach the stronghold, you'll face numerous vampire minions.
     • Use the silver weapons and crossbow to deal additional damage.
     • Keep an eye on your health and use healing spells or potions when necessary.
   • Finally, confront Lord Harkon.
     • During this encounter, avoid his special abilities and wait for your window to attack.
     • Once defeated, pick up any unique loot he may drop.

7. The Aftermath and Choices

   • After defeating Harkon, return to Isran at Fort Dawnguard to inform him of your victory.
   • You may also have the option to side with the vampires or Dawnguard, affecting the quest’s conclusion and subsequent quests.

8. Complete Associated Quests

   • There are additional quests you can complete, such as “A New Order” and “Lost to the Ages”, to further enhance your experience.
     • Speak to NPCs in Fort Dawnguard for additional side quests.
     • These often give vital rewards and enhance your character’s abilities against vampire threats.

9. Repeatable Tasks

   • Following the main questline, you can participate in repeatable vampire hunting tasks, helping residents and acquiring new items.
   • Join factions or help NPCs in other cities to further bolster your character's growth.

Conclusion

Completing the Dawnguard questline will not only allow you to experience an engrossing story with rich lore but also provide powerful rewards, skills, and gear that can be used throughout your Skyrim journey. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and embrace your role as a vampire hunter or explorer of the dark arts. Your choices will shape the future of Skyrim, and the epic tale of light versus darkness awaits your action!