Dragonstone Skyrim: Quick Bleak Falls Barrow Retrieval
Retrieve and deliver the Dragonstone in Bleak Falls Barrow in Skyrim is a pivotal early-game quest that introduces you to the main storyline and its overarching conflict. This dungeon crawl, while not the most challenging, can be a bit confusing for new players. However, with a clear understanding of its layout and objectives, you can navigate its depths efficiently and secure the critical artifact for Farengar Secret-Fire, the court wizard in Whiterun.
Your journey begins after your initial encounter with Irileth in the Jarl’s Longhouse in Whiterun. She’ll task you with investigating the disturbances at Bleak Falls Barrow, a Forsworn stronghold where a dragon was reportedly sighted. Your primary objective is to locate a specific artifact: the Dragonstone. This ancient relic is crucial for understanding Alduin’s return and the prophecy of the Dragonborn.
Upon arriving at the entrance of Bleak Falls Barrow, you’ll likely encounter some minor resistance from Forsworn. Deal with them swiftly and enter the barrow. The initial area is relatively straightforward, but it soon opens up into a series of chambers and corridors. Keep your eyes peeled for potions, gold, and any useful loot scattered around. You might also find some lore-heavy books that flesh out the history of Skyrim and its dragons.
The barrow is populated by various enemies, including Forsworn, draugr, and potentially even spiders. Early in your adventure, these foes can pose a significant threat, so come prepared with decent armor, weapons, and a few healing potions. Don’t underestimate the power of stealth if you’re playing a character that excels in it; picking off enemies from afar or silently dispatching them can make the descent much easier.
One of the early challenges you’ll face is a puzzle involving rotating pillars. The solution to this puzzle is usually found nearby, often etched onto a wall or indicated by the environment. This is a common mechanic in Skyrim’s dungeons, so getting accustomed to these types of puzzles early on will serve you well throughout your playthrough. Pay close attention to your surroundings; the answer is rarely hidden too far away.
Further into Bleak Falls Barrow, you’ll encounter more formidable opponents. Be sure to utilize the environmental hazards if possible – be it strategically placed oil slicks or treacherous ledges from which you can knock enemies. The draugr here are particularly resilient, so focusing your attacks and managing your stamina are key to survival.
Navigating the Depths to Retrieve and Deliver the Dragonstone
As you press deeper into the barrow, you’ll eventually reach a chamber that looks like a tomb. This is where the Dragonstone is located, but it’s not unguarded. A powerful draugr, often a Draugr Overlord or something similarly challenging, will be protecting it. This boss fight is a good test of your combat prowess at this stage of the game. Use your strongest attacks, block effectively, and don’t forget to keep your health topped up.
Once the guardian is defeated, you can lay your hands on the Dragonstone. It will usually be found on a pedestal or within a chest near the boss’s remains. The stone itself is a relatively small, intricately carved artifact. Picking it up will automatically update your quest log, signaling that your retrieval mission is complete.
However, your journey isn’t over just yet. Bleak Falls Barrow has another secret to reveal. The chamber where you found the Dragonstone also contains a word wall. Interacting with this wall will grant you your first Dragon Shout, a powerful ability unique to the Dragonborn. This is a significant moment in your progression, unlocking a new layer of combat and exploration options. Remember this location; you’ll be returning to it later in the main questline.
With the Dragonstone in your possession and your first Dragon Shout learned, you can now make your way back out of Bleak Falls Barrow. The return journey is usually less eventful, though you might encounter any respawned enemies or any you missed on the way in. Once you emerge from the barrow, your next step is to return to Whiterun and deliver the Dragonstone to Farengar Secret-Fire.
The Importance of the Dragonstone in Bleak Falls Barrow
Presenting the Dragonstone to Farengar is the climax of this quest. He’ll be grateful for your efforts and will begin his research, which will further advance the main storyline. This exchange solidifies your role as the Dragonborn and sets you on the path to understanding your destiny. It’s a critical juncture that opens up a world of possibilities and challenges.
The swift retrieval and delivery of the Dragonstone in Bleak Falls Barrow is more than just a task; it’s an initiation. It teaches you about the dangers of Skyrim, the ancient lore surrounding dragons, and the importance of your unique abilities. Mastering this early quest will equip you with the skills and confidence needed to face the many trials that await you as the Dragonborn. So, prepare yourself, brave the barrow, and secure the artifact that holds the key to your destiny.