Complete Guide to the "Once a Hunter" Quest in Skyrim

Introduction

"Once a Hunter" is a side quest in the expansive world of Skyrim that revolves around hunting and tragic backstories. In this quest, players will delve into the lore surrounding the hunter's life and the consequences of their choices. This guide will provide a comprehensive step-by-step walkthrough to help you successfully complete "Once a Hunter." Whether you're an experienced Dragonborn or a newcomer to Skyrim, this guide will help you navigate through the quest with ease.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Starting the Quest

   • Begin your journey by traveling to Whiterun.
     • Look for Gerdur at Riverwood or scout around, as they often initiate this quest.
     • Speak to Gerdur, and they will send you to track down an old friend, Sinding.

2. Travel to Falkreath

   • From Whiterun, head southwest towards Falkreath.
     • You can fast travel if you've already discovered Falkreath to save time.
     • Be prepared to encounter random wilderness monsters or bandits during your travel.

3. Find Sinding in the Falkreath Jail

   • Locate Falkreath Jail which is straight ahead in Falkreath.
     • Enter the jail and speak with Sinding inside.
     • He will tell you about his past and ask you to retrieve his sacred ring.

4. Follow the Trail to the Glenmoril Witches

   • Exit the jail and head towards the Glenmoril Witch’s lair, located northeast of Falkreath.
     • Look for a specific marker on your map indicating the lair’s location.
     • Prepare for battle against the Glenmoril Witches, as they are powerful foes.

5. Engage the Glenmoril Witches

   • Upon reaching the lair, engage the witches guarding the entrance.
     • Use ranged attacks if possible, as they have strong magical abilities.
     • Loot any valuable items from defeated witches, including potions and spells.

6. Navigate the Witch's Lair

   • Carefully navigate through the lair, avoiding traps along the way.
     • Use stealth to avoid more enemies if you are not prepared for direct combat.
     • Remember to loot the each section for potential treasures and ingredients.

7. Retrieve the Ring

   • Locate the sacred ring that Sinding spoke of amidst the lair's clutter.
     • Once found, take the ring to add it to your inventory.

8. Return to Sinding

   • Make your way back to Falkreath Jail.
     • Be cautious of any enemies on your return journey, including wildlife like wolves that may attack.
     • Speak with Sinding and return the sacred ring to him.

9. Choose Your Path: Help Sinding or Fight Him

   • After you return the ring, a dialogue will ensue, where Sinding reveals his transformation due to the Beast Blood.
     • You have a choice: help him hunt the White Stag, or engage in combat with him.
       • If you choose to help:
         • Follow Sinding to the location of the White Stag.
         • Successfully hunt the stag together, and Sinding will regain his humanity momentarily.
       • If you choose to fight:
         • Defeat Sinding in combat (you can use powerful shouts or magic).
         • After his defeat, a dialogue will inform you of his fate, and you will receive unique loot.

10. Completion

    • Once the events unfold, you’ll be awarded Sinding’s Ring regardless of the choices made.
      • The quest will conclude after your interactions, providing you with experience and possibly unique rewards.

Conclusion

Completing the "Once a Hunter" quest in Skyrim offers a deeper understanding of the game's expansive lore and character dynamics. By following this detailed step-by-step guide, you can easily navigate the challenges Sinding presents and enjoy the rich storytelling woven throughout this compelling narrative. Whether you engage with Sinding or take a more treacherous path, you will leave with a sense of accomplishment and perhaps a few new treasures as well. Happy hunting!