Alduin’s Wall

Alduin’s Wall takes you and the last two Blades to Sky Haven Temple, a forgotten Blades stronghold hidden inside Karthspire in The Reach. Deep inside lies Alduin’s Wall – a huge carving that tells how the ancient Nords once defeated the World-Eater.

Walkthrough

Back to Riverwood

Escort Esbern from Riften to the Sleeping Giant Inn in Riverwood, where Delphine is waiting. The two old Blades are delighted to see each other, and Esbern explains that Alduin’s Wall is in Sky Haven Temple, inside Karthspire. You can travel there with them or meet them at the site.

Karthspire camp

The area around Karthspire is held by Forsworn, including a hagraven. Clear the camp (watch out for archers on the upper bridges) and enter the cave. A dragon may also show up and add to the chaos.

The pillar puzzle

Inside the caverns, more Forsworn wait, including a Forsworn Briarheart. Delphine and Esbern stop at a puzzle that controls a drawbridge: turn the pillars so that the symbols match, following Esbern’s hint, and the bridge lowers.

The Akaviri floor

Next comes a floor of Akaviri symbols. Esbern reads the old inscriptions for you – step only on the right symbols, and the traps stay quiet.

The blood seal

The final door is sealed with a blood seal that only the Dragonborn can open. Step up, let it take a drop of your blood, and the way into Sky Haven Temple opens.

Alduin’s Wall

Inside, Esbern studies the wall and explains what it shows: the ancient Nords defeated Alduin with a special Shout – Dragonrend – that forced him out of the sky. Nobody living knows it. Esbern suggests the Greybeards might, which leads to The Throat of the World.

Rewards

• Sky Haven Temple becomes the Blades’ headquarters
• Blades armor and weapons in the temple, including the sword Dragonbane
• Esbern can later offer bonuses against dragons

Tips

• This quest also unlocks “Rebuilding the Blades”, where you can recruit followers – like Lydia – into the order.
• Delphine and Esbern are essential here, so let them tank the Forsworn while you pick them off.