In Skyrim, one of the more intricate and demanding quests is “Discerning the Transmundane,” a Daedric quest given by Septimus Signus, an eccentric mage living in the far north. To progress in this quest, players must collect blood from various Mer races to emulate Dwemer blood. Among these, obtaining Dark Elf (Dunmer) blood can be particularly challenging. Here’s a detailed guide on where to find Dark Elf blood in Skyrim.
Starting “Discerning the Transmundane”
The quest begins by speaking with Septimus Signus, who resides in a small outpost north of the College of Winterhold. After meeting him and furthering the questline, players are tasked with gathering the blood of several Mer races: Altmer (High Elf), Bosmer (Wood Elf), Dunmer (Dark Elf), Falmer (Snow Elf), and Orsimer (Orc). This blood collection is necessary to replicate Dwemer blood and unlock an ancient Dwemer device.
Locations to Find Dark Elf Blood
Dark Elves are refugees from Morrowind, typically spread across Skyrim as mages, mercenaries, or dark magic practitioners. Their blood can be sourced from various locations:
- Solstheim: NPCs across the island, particularly Dunmer Reavers.
- Knifepoint Mine: The Champion of Boethiah.
- Liar’s Retreat: A body midway inside the cave.
- Reeking Cave: A body near the entrance.
- The Grey Quarter in Windhelm: A high concentration of Dunmer residents.
Other Targeted Locations
Additionally, various other locations also provide opportunities to gather Dark Elf blood:
- Cronvangr Cave
- Faldar’s Tooth
- Hob’s Fall Cave
- Northwest of Half-Moon Mill
- East of Vahlok’s Tomb
- Darkshade
- Drelas’ Cottage
- Evergreen Grove
- Halted Stream Camp
- Yngvild
Efficient Harvesting Strategies
For efficiency, it’s useful to target locations where multiple types of Mer can be found to minimize travel time. For instance, Liar’s Retreat houses Bosmer, Dunmer, Falmer, and Orsimer, making it an optimal site. Augmenting the collection process, the Thalmor Embassy and Hob’s Fall Cave contain multiple Mer races, though some may not be hostile.
Concluding the Quest
After collecting the required blood samples and returning to Septimus Signus, the quest progresses towards a conclusion involving Hermaeus Mora, the Daedric Prince of Knowledge. Completing this quest allows players to obtain the Oghma Infinium, a book that grants significant skill boosts and is best utilized at higher levels.
Through meticulous searching and strategic planning, players can efficiently gather Dark Elf blood and proceed with the “Discerning the Transmundane” quest, ultimately unlocking one of Skyrim’s most powerful artifacts.
