How To Join The Dawnguard In Skyrim A Comprehensive Guide
Hey guys! So you've got the Dawnguard DLC for Skyrim and you're itching to join the fight against those pesky vampires, right? Awesome! Joining the Dawnguard is a fantastic way to experience a whole new side of Skyrim, packed with thrilling quests, cool characters, and some seriously epic battles. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become a member of this legendary vampire-hunting faction. Let's dive in!
Finding Fort Dawnguard: Your First Step
First things first, you need to locate Fort Dawnguard. This is where your adventure truly begins. Finding Fort Dawnguard can be a bit tricky if you don't know where to look, but don't worry, I've got you covered. The fort is nestled in the southeastern corner of Skyrim, specifically in the Rift region. Think of it as being east of Riften, that bustling city known for its Thieves Guild and, well, its general shadier atmosphere.
When you're making your way towards Fort Dawnguard, keep an eye out for a narrow mountain pass. The path isn't exactly obvious; it's a bit hidden and winding, which adds to the adventure, don't you think? You might encounter some wildlife (or maybe even some less-friendly creatures), so be prepared for a bit of a trek. The good news is, once you're on the right track, the game usually does a decent job of guiding you with quest markers. Just follow the prompts, and you'll eventually reach a crevasse in the mountainside. This is Dayspring Canyon, the hidden path that leads directly to Fort Dawnguard. As you traverse this canyon, you’ll start to get a feel for the Dawnguard’s isolated and fortified position. It’s a place built for defense, a stronghold against the encroaching darkness. Remember to keep an eye out for any potential ambushes; the creatures of the night aren't exactly fans of vampire hunters. And hey, enjoy the scenery! The Rift is a beautiful region, even with its dangers. Once you emerge from Dayspring Canyon, you’ll finally see it – Fort Dawnguard, standing proud and ready for action. This is where the real fun begins, guys. Get ready to step inside and take your first steps towards becoming a true vampire hunter!
Initial Encounters and the Importance of Rumors
Now, here's a little tip that can make your journey even smoother: Keep your ears open for rumors. In Skyrim, rumors are your best friend, seriously! Once the Dawnguard DLC is installed, guards and innkeepers throughout Skyrim will start whispering about a group of vampire hunters who are reforming in the Rift. These rumors act as breadcrumbs, leading you closer to your destination. So, next time you're in a tavern, chat with the innkeeper, ask about any interesting news. You might be surprised at what you uncover. These initial encounters aren't just about directions; they also set the stage for the epic conflict you're about to get involved in. You'll hear tales of rising vampire threats, attacks on travelers, and the growing unease among the people of Skyrim. It's all part of building the atmosphere and drawing you into the Dawnguard's world. Plus, gathering information from different sources gives you a more immersive experience. You're not just blindly following a quest marker; you're piecing together the story, understanding the stakes, and becoming a part of the world. And that, my friends, is what makes Skyrim so amazing, right? The feeling that you're not just playing a game, but living a story. So, listen to those rumors, follow the leads, and let the whispers guide you to Fort Dawnguard. The vampires aren't going to hunt themselves, you know!
Joining the Ranks: The Dawnguard's Call
So, you've made it to Fort Dawnguard – awesome job! Now comes the exciting part: actually joining the ranks. Walking through those imposing gates is a pretty cool moment, I gotta say. When you step inside, you'll immediately notice that this place is serious business. It's a fully functional fort, bustling with activity. You'll see armored warriors training, blacksmiths hammering away at weapons, and strategists poring over maps. This isn't just a cozy clubhouse; it's a war room, a staging ground for the fight against the undead.
Speaking with Isran: Your Key to the Dawnguard
To officially join the Dawnguard, you'll need to find Isran. He's the leader of the order, and he's a grizzled, no-nonsense kind of guy. You'll usually find him in the main hall of the fort, often surrounded by other members, discussing tactics or reviewing reports. Isran is a veteran vampire hunter, and he's seen his fair share of battles. He's also a bit of a skeptic, so don't expect a warm welcome right off the bat. He'll likely give you a once-over, assess your skills, and maybe even question your motives. But don't let that intimidate you! Just be honest, be confident, and show him that you're serious about fighting vampires. When you talk to Isran, he'll explain the situation: Vampires are on the rise, and they're becoming bolder and more aggressive. He believes a major threat is looming, and he needs all the help he can get to stop it. This is your chance to prove yourself and become a part of something bigger than yourself. Isran will likely give you a test, a small task to see if you're up to the challenge. This might involve clearing out a vampire nest, rescuing a captured Dawnguard member, or investigating a strange report. Whatever the task, give it your all. This is your audition, your chance to show Isran (and the rest of the Dawnguard) that you're a valuable asset in the fight against the undead. And once you've proven yourself, you'll officially be welcomed into the Dawnguard ranks. Congratulations, you're now a vampire hunter! Get ready for some epic adventures, guys!
Bloodline: The First Quest
Once you've convinced Isran that you're serious, he'll give you your first official quest: Bloodline. This quest is a crucial part of the Dawnguard storyline, and it's where things really start to get interesting. You'll be tasked with investigating a mysterious situation at a place called Dimhollow Crypt. Now, Dimhollow Crypt isn't exactly a tourist destination. It's an ancient, foreboding place, filled with traps, puzzles, and, of course, vampires. So, be prepared for a bit of a dungeon crawl. This quest is designed to test your skills, your combat prowess, and your ability to think on your feet. You'll need to navigate treacherous corridors, solve ancient riddles, and fight off hordes of undead creatures. It's a challenging quest, but it's also incredibly rewarding.
Unveiling Serana: A Pivotal Moment
As you delve deeper into Dimhollow Crypt, you'll eventually come across a sealed chamber. Inside, you'll find a mysterious woman named Serana. This is a pivotal moment in the Dawnguard storyline, guys. Serana is a vampire, but she's not just any vampire. She's a pure-blooded vampire, a Daughter of Coldharbour, and she holds a vital piece of information that could change the course of the war against the undead. Rescuing Serana from Dimhollow Crypt is just the beginning of a long and complex journey. She'll become a key ally in your fight against the vampires, but she'll also bring her own secrets and challenges. Dealing with Serana is a delicate balancing act. She's powerful, intelligent, and fiercely independent. She has her own agenda, and she's not afraid to pursue it. But she's also vulnerable, burdened by her past, and seeking answers about her future. As you work alongside Serana, you'll need to earn her trust, understand her motivations, and make some tough choices about where your loyalties lie. This is what makes the Dawnguard storyline so compelling, right? It's not just about fighting vampires; it's about the relationships you build, the choices you make, and the consequences of those choices. And Serana is at the heart of it all. So, get ready to embark on this epic adventure, guys. The fate of Skyrim might just depend on it!
Gearing Up and Training: Becoming a True Vampire Hunter
Once you've completed the Bloodline quest and returned to Fort Dawnguard with Serana, you'll officially be a full-fledged member of the order. Now it's time to gear up and train, because the fight against the vampires is only going to get tougher from here on out. The Dawnguard offers a variety of resources to help you become a more effective vampire hunter. You'll have access to specialized weapons, armor, and training facilities, all designed to give you an edge in combat against the undead.
Weapons and Armor: Essential Tools of the Trade
First things first, let's talk about gear. The Dawnguard has its own unique set of weapons and armor, specifically designed for fighting vampires. You can purchase these items from the fort's blacksmith, or you might find them as rewards for completing quests. The Dawnguard armor is a heavy armor set, offering excellent protection against physical attacks. It's perfect for those who prefer a more tank-like playstyle, charging into the fray and soaking up damage. The armor looks pretty badass, too, with its sturdy metal plates and distinctive Dawnguard insignia. As for weapons, the Dawnguard is known for its use of crossbows. These aren't your average bows; they're powerful, accurate, and deadly against vampires. Crossbows have a slower rate of fire than regular bows, but they pack a much bigger punch. Plus, you can craft special bolts that deal extra damage to the undead. If you prefer a more up-close-and-personal approach, the Dawnguard also offers a variety of swords, axes, and maces. These weapons are often enchanted with special effects that are particularly effective against vampires, such as dealing extra fire damage or turning the undead. Choosing the right gear is crucial for surviving the battles ahead, guys. Experiment with different weapons and armor sets to find what works best for your playstyle. And don't be afraid to ask your fellow Dawnguard members for advice. They've been fighting vampires for a long time, and they know what works!
Skill Enhancement: Honing Your Abilities
Beyond gear, the Dawnguard also provides opportunities to enhance your skills. You can train with experienced warriors, learn new combat techniques, and improve your overall effectiveness in battle. This is especially important if you're new to the Dawnguard, or if you're looking to specialize in a particular combat style. The Dawnguard trainers can help you improve your skills in a variety of areas, including archery, one-handed weapons, two-handed weapons, heavy armor, and blocking. They can also teach you new techniques, such as how to effectively use a crossbow or how to exploit a vampire's weaknesses. Training with the Dawnguard isn't just about becoming a better fighter; it's also about learning to work as a team. The Dawnguard is a close-knit group, and they rely on each other to survive. By training together, you'll build camaraderie, learn to coordinate your attacks, and become a more effective fighting force. So, take advantage of the training opportunities available at Fort Dawnguard, guys. The more skilled you become, the better your chances of surviving the challenges ahead. And remember, the fight against the vampires is a long and arduous one. You'll need all the skills and experience you can get to come out on top!
Continuing the Fight: Quests and Conflicts
Once you're geared up and trained, it's time to get back into the fight. The Dawnguard storyline is packed with quests, conflicts, and challenges that will test your skills and your resolve. You'll be sent on missions to hunt down vampires, investigate strange occurrences, and protect the people of Skyrim from the undead threat. These quests will take you to all corners of Skyrim, from dark and foreboding crypts to bustling cities and remote villages. You'll encounter a variety of enemies, from lowly blood thralls to powerful vampire lords. And you'll need to use all your skills and resources to survive.
Engaging in the Main Questline: A War Against the Night
The main questline of the Dawnguard DLC is a thrilling and epic adventure, pitting you against a powerful vampire lord named Harkon. Harkon is determined to plunge Skyrim into eternal darkness, and it's up to you and the Dawnguard to stop him. The main questline will take you on a journey through ancient ruins, forgotten tombs, and hidden strongholds. You'll uncover long-lost secrets, forge alliances with unlikely allies, and face moral dilemmas that will test your character. This is where the story truly shines, guys. The writing is excellent, the characters are compelling, and the stakes are incredibly high. You'll feel like you're truly making a difference in the world, fighting for the survival of Skyrim against a seemingly unstoppable force. The main questline culminates in a final showdown with Harkon, a battle that will determine the fate of Skyrim. This is a challenging fight, requiring all your skills, gear, and strategic thinking. But it's also an incredibly rewarding experience, a fitting end to an epic adventure. But the Dawnguard's work is never truly done. Even after defeating Harkon, there will still be vampires lurking in the shadows, preying on the innocent. You'll need to continue your vigilance, hunting down these creatures and protecting the people of Skyrim. The fight against the vampires is a never-ending struggle, but it's a struggle worth fighting. So, embrace the challenge, guys, and become the hero that Skyrim needs. The Dawnguard is counting on you!
Conclusion: Your Legacy as a Dawnguard
Joining the Dawnguard is one of the coolest experiences you can have in Skyrim, especially if you're into vampire hunting and epic battles. You'll get to explore new locations, meet fascinating characters, and wield some seriously awesome weapons and armor. But more importantly, you'll become part of a legendary order, fighting to protect the people of Skyrim from the encroaching darkness. It's a rewarding journey, filled with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments. So, if you're looking for a new adventure in Skyrim, I highly recommend joining the Dawnguard, guys. You won't regret it. Embrace the call, sharpen your blades, and prepare to become a true vampire hunter. The fate of Skyrim is in your hands!
