The Horn Of Jurgen Windcaller Complete Skyrim Quest Walkthrough
The quest for the Horn of Jurgen Windcaller represents a pivotal turning point in Skyrim's main storyline. Assigned by Arngeir after proving your shouting abilities at High Hrothgar, this mission sends the Dragonborn deep into the ancient ruin of Ustengrav. Completing this journey unlocks your full potential as a Voice master and advances the central narrative significantly.
Journeying to the Ancient Ruins of Ustengrav
To begin your expedition, travel far northwest to the misty salt marshes of Hjaalmarch near Morthal. The exterior of Ustengrav is guarded by a small band of bandits, so exercise caution upon approach. Prepare your equipment and stock up on healing potions before descending into the tomb's icy depths.
Once inside, you will navigate through corridors filled with necromancers, warlocks, and restless Draugr. Taking advantage of stealth or long-range attacks can simplify these early skirmishes significantly. Clear out these hostile forces systematically to ensure a safe path toward the lower levels.
Navigating the Depths and Overcoming Puzzles
Proceeding deeper brings you to Ustengrav Depths, a massive underground cavern featuring waterfalls and ancient Nordic architecture. Keep an eye out for a Word Wall near the cavern floor to learn a new word for the Become Ethereal Shout. Acquiring this Shout offers incredible tactical flexibility during both exploration and future combat encounters.
The primary barrier in Ustengrav is a timed speed puzzle involving three glowing red stones. Passing near each stone activates a series of raised iron gates blocking the exit pathway. Stand near the first pillar, use your Whirlwind Sprint Shout, and dash through all three gates before they shut completely.
Uncovering the Mysterious Note
After sprinting past the gate puzzle and dodging floor traps, you will reach the final pedestal chamber. Instead of finding the legendary horn, you will discover a mysterious note left by an unknown party. The letter instructs you to rent the attic room at the Sleeping Giant Inn in Riverwood to retrieve the artifact.
Travel immediately to Riverwood and speak with Delphine, the innkeeper, to rent the specified room. Following her instructions leads to a secret meeting where she reveals herself as a surviving member of the Blades. She returns the actual Horn of Jurgen Windcaller to you after explaining her motives regarding the dragon crisis.
Returning to High Hrothgar for Initiation
With the relic finally secured, return to High Hrothgar and hand the horn over to Master Arngeir. The Greybeards will accept the artifact and formally recognize you as the true Dragonborn through an ancient ceremony. During this ritual, the masters surround you and speak words of power that echo across the mountain.
Completing this quest grants you the final word for the Unrelenting Force Shout, maximizing its power. Furthermore, you gain permission to freely explore High Hrothgar and ask Arngeir for information on other Shout locations scattered across Skyrim. Returning the horn also allows you to re-activate its original altar in Ustengrav for a free Dragon Soul reward.