Witches in Skyrim: how to kill and where to find feathers

The world of Skyrim in “The Elder Scrolls V” is brimming with mystical and perilous creatures, among which the Glenmoril Witches stand as significant adversaries. These witches play a crucial part in the quest “Blood’s Honor,” and players must face them to progress in the game. Here’s a detailed guide on where to find these witches, how to defeat them, and where to gather the feathers that are often sought after.

Finding the Glenmoril Witches in Skyrim

The Glenmoril Witches can be found in the Glenmoril Coven, which is located in the northwest reaches of Falkreath, southeast of Lost Valley Redoubt. This secluded area is home to some of Skyrim’s deadliest Hagraven witches, and navigating through it requires both courage and preparation.

Steps to Kill the Glenmoril Witches

• Quest Initiation: The quest “Blood’s Honor” is initiated by speaking with Kodlak Whitemane after completing two radiant quests for the Companions. Kodlak explains his need to cure his lycanthropy and sends you to collect the head of a Glenmoril Witch.
• Entering Glenmoril Coven: Upon locating the coven, proceed cautiously as the area is swarming with hostile creatures. Sneaking can be a valuable tactic to gain the upper hand.
• First Encounter: The first witch you encounter will attack on sight, often accompanied by creatures like Frostbite Spiders or Skeever. Utilizing ranged attacks or powerful spells can help in quickly dispatching her.
• Claiming the Head: After defeating the witch, collect her head. This is the primary objective, but players have the option to hunt down the remaining witches in the coven.
• Extra Kills: Killing additional witches, of which there are four more in the coven, not only ensures more heads which are useful later for curing lycanthropy but also grants access to valuable loot and skill books. Notable books include “The Horror of Castle Xyr” for Destruction and “A Tragedy in Black” for Enchanting.

Useful Combat Tips

• Ranged Attacks: Witches have powerful melee and fire-based attacks. Using bows or destruction spells at a distance can be extremely effective.
• Sneak Attacks: If you have high stealth skills, entering sneak mode to deliver critical hits before the witches notice you can make the battles easier.
• Companions: Bringing a follower can help distract the witches and their minions, allowing you to attack from a safer position.

Valuable Loot and Feathers

In addition to the witches’ heads, players often seek out feathers found within the coven. Feathers can be harvested from the bodies of the Hagraven witches and used for various crafting purposes.

Returning to Kodlak with the witch’s head completes the quest “Blood’s Honor” and moves the storyline forward. However, upon returning to Jorrvaskr, players will face a new set of challenges with the Silver Hand’s attack.