Complete Guide to "No News is Good News" Quest in Skyrim

Introduction

The quest "No News is Good News" is one of the intriguing side missions available in Skyrim. It revolves around the conflict between the Silver-Blood family in Markarth and the Forsworn, a group of indigenous Nords that seek to reclaim their ancestral lands. This guide will walk you through all the steps needed to successfully complete the quest, ensuring you achieve your objectives and uncover the story behind the conflict.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Starting the Quest

   • Begin the quest by speaking to either Thonar Silver-Blood or Madesi, both found in the Silver-Blood Inn in Markarth.
     • Thonar will inform you about his missing nephew, Gunnar, and request your help to find him.
     • Accept the quest to receive your initial objective.

2. Search for Gunnar

   • Head to the Mine outside Markarth located to the northeast of the city.
     • Look for signs of struggle or clues indicating Gunnar's whereabouts.
       • Search around the mine entrance and within for potential leads.

3. Exploring the Mine

   • Enter the mine and proceed cautiously.
     • Be prepared for Forsworn enemies lurking inside.
       • Engage and defeat them to ensure a safe path through the mine.
     • Explore thoroughly to discover Gunnar’s fate.

4. Find Gunnar's Body

   • Discover Gunnar's dead body deeper within the mine.
     • Search the area for details confirming the circumstances of his death.
       • Collect any relevant items or notes that may provide context.

5. Return to Thonar

   • Exit the mine and make your way back to the Silver-Blood Inn.
     • Speak with Thonar and inform him about Gunnar's demise.
       • You will have the option to tell him the truth about the Forsworn's involvement.

6. Choose Your Path

   • After reporting to Thonar, you will have choices in how to handle the situation.
     • Decide whether to confront the Forsworn directly or to seek alternative methods to resolve the tension.
       • If confronting, head to the Forsworn Camp east of Markarth.

7. Confront the Forsworn

   • At the Forsworn camp, prepare for an encounter with enemy forces.
     • Engage the Forsworn warriors while searching for Mara.
       • Defeat enemies and gather information from captured Forsworn.
     • Retrieve any items or messages that may provide insight into their plans.

8. Report Back to Thonar

   • Once the confrontation is resolved, return to Thonar once more.
     • Inform him of the actions taken and any new leads obtained.
       • This will often lead to additional rewards and a continuation of quest lines.

9. Wrap Up Any Loose Ends

   • Before concluding the quest, ensure you collect any loot or rewards.
     • Also, consider checking in with other NPCs in Markarth for additional quests or new information tied to the aftermath.
       • Engage with Madesi or other townsfolk for extra context and story development.

Conclusion

Completing the "No News is Good News" quest offers a revealing look into the ongoing struggles in Skyrim, showcasing the tensions between the Silver-Blood family and the Forsworn. By following this detailed guide, players can navigate the complexities of the mission, uncover vital story elements, and enhance their overall gameplay experience in the richly woven narrative of Skyrim. Your decisions throughout will not only impact Thonar but the broader community of Markarth as well.