The quest Touching the Sky is one of the most memorable and complex storylines in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Dawnguard expansion. Players are tasked with finding Auriel's Bow, a powerful ancient artifact needed to combat the vampire threat or fulfill Lord Harkon's prophecy. Navigating through perilous caverns and vast isolated valleys requires preparation and strategic thinking.
Journeying Through Darkfall Cave
Your journey begins at Darkfall Cave, a treacherous location hidden away in the northwestern reaches of Skyrim. Inside, players must navigate dark tunnels filled with deadly traps and hostile Falmer forces. Dropping into the subterranean river leads directly into the uncharted territory of the cave system.
Upon reaching the end of the cave, you meet Knight-Paladin Gelebor, one of the last remaining Snow Elves. He agrees to give you Auriel's Bow if you fill an Initiate's Ewer at five distinct wayshrines and slay his corrupted brother, Arch-Curate Vyrthur. Gelebor opens a portal that grants passage into the massive Forgotten Vale.
Filling the Initiate's Ewer in the Forgotten Vale
The Forgotten Vale is a massive, secluded wilderness populated by Falmer, chaurus, and ancient dragons. Players must locate five separate wayshrines scattered across different regions of the vale to fill the Initiate's Ewer. Each wayshrine is guarded by a Prelate ghost who grants access to the sacred waters.
Exploring this zone demands patience, as terrain can be confusing and hazardous to traverse. Keeping an eye out for landmark stone arches and pathways will prevent you from getting lost in the expansive landscape. Along the way, players can collect rare items and discover unique word walls.
Confronting Arch-Curate Vyrthur
After gathering water from all five wayshrines, you gain entry into the Inner Sanctum, a grand Snow Elf temple filled with frozen statues. Moving through the sanctum brings you to an outdoor balcony where Arch-Curate Vyrthur awaits. A dramatic battle ensues as Vyrthur summons waves of frozen enemies and damages the balcony structure.
Defeating Vyrthur reveals the truth behind his corruption and his plan to block out the sun using vampire blood. Knight-Paladin Gelebor appears to acknowledge his brother's tragedy and rewards your efforts by unlocking the shrine containing Auriel's Bow. With the bow in hand, you are prepared to finish the Dawnguard questline.
Claiming Auriel's Bow and Next Steps
Auriel's Bow possesses unique enchantments that deal massive sun damage to undead targets. Paired with Sunhallowed or Bloodsoaked arrows, the weapon can unleash powerful atmospheric effects upon the sun itself. Claiming this weapon is a crucial turning point for both the Dawnguard and Vampire factions.
With Touching the Sky complete, players can return to their faction home to prepare for the final confrontation. Whether you choose to save Skyrim or usher in eternal night, mastering this quest is an essential achievement for any adventurer.
