Auriel’s Bow: Vampire Lord or Dawnguard, Does it Matter?
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Yes, you absolutely still get Auriel’s Bow if you become a Vampire Lord in the Skyrim: Dawnguard DLC. The acquisition of Auriel’s Bow is a central plot point in the Dawnguard questline, and your choice to side with the Vampire Lords under Lord Harkon or the Dawnguard will not prevent you from obtaining it. The questline progresses in a very similar fashion regardless of your allegiance. Whether you are a virtuous vampire hunter or a powerful creature of the night, Auriel’s Bow awaits you in the Forgotten Vale.
Unveiling Auriel’s Bow: A Vampire Lord’s Perspective
Many players worry that embracing the Vampire Lord path will lock them out of essential items or quests within the Dawnguard DLC. However, the developers at Bethesda were clever in structuring the storyline. You’ll find that while your role and motivations might shift depending on your allegiance, the core events of the quest remain largely the same.
Think of it this way: the overarching narrative is about preventing Lord Harkon from extinguishing the sun. To do this, you need Auriel’s Bow, regardless of whether you intend to use it for good or for ill. The game ensures you have the opportunity to acquire it. Your eventual confrontation with Harkon hinges on you possessing the bow.
The main difference between the two paths lies in the perspective and the smaller side quests you will have access to. The main quest of obtaining Auriel’s Bow will remain unaffected as Serana is instrumental in helping you obtain it.
Key Moments in the Quest for Auriel’s Bow as a Vampire Lord
- Joining the Volkihar Clan: You’ll begin by swearing fealty to Lord Harkon and becoming a Vampire Lord.
- Seeking the Moth Priest: You’ll be tasked to locate a Moth Priest, which will lead you to discover the prophecy related to Auriel’s Bow.
- Exploring Dimhollow Crypt: This is where you first meet Serana, a pure-blooded Vampire and an essential character for obtaining the bow.
- The Forgotten Vale: Together with Serana, you’ll journey to the Forgotten Vale, a hidden location where Auriel’s Bow is kept. This involves a series of quests and challenges.
- Confronting Arch-Curate Vythur: The ultimate keeper of Auriel’s Bow, you’ll have to face Arch-Curate Vythur to claim it.
- The Final Showdown: Finally, you will confront Harkon. Whether you sided with the Dawnguard or not, he will betray you. Having Auriel’s Bow during the boss fight can be very useful.
Preparing for the Forgotten Vale
The Forgotten Vale can be a treacherous place, filled with powerful enemies. It’s crucial to be well-equipped before venturing in. Some recommendations:
- Potions and Supplies: Stock up on health and magic potions. Consider potions that resist frost damage, as many enemies in the Forgotten Vale use frost attacks.
- Weapon and Armor: Ensure your weapon and armor are of high quality and properly enchanted. Having good fire-resistant armor can be useful.
- Companions: Serana is an invaluable companion throughout the Dawnguard DLC, but you might consider bringing an additional follower to assist you in combat.
- Abilities: Make sure that your Vampire Lord skill tree is advanced. Skills such as ‘Vampiric Grip’ can be very useful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions surrounding the Dawnguard DLC and the acquisition of Auriel’s Bow:
1. What happens if I become a Vampire Lord after joining the Dawnguard?
If you become a Vampire Lord after initially siding with the Dawnguard, they will become hostile towards you. You will need to cure your vampirism to rejoin their ranks.
2. Can I give Auriel’s Bow to Harkon?
You can give Auriel’s Bow to Harkon, but be warned, he will betray you regardless. It is generally recommended to keep the bow for yourself as it is invaluable during the final battle.
3. What happens if I become a vampire from Lord Harkon?
Harkon will transform you into a Vampire Lord and provide initial training in using your new powers in the Castle Volkihar cathedral.
4. Can you cure Serana?
Yes, Serana can be cured of her vampirism after completing the Dawnguard DLC. You can take her to Falion in Morthal, who will perform a ritual to cure her.
5. Does Serana want to be cured?
Serana generally views her vampirism as a gift and initially expresses no desire to be cured. However, you can persuade her to consider it later in the game.
6. Can you marry Serana after killing Harkon?
Without mods, you cannot marry Serana. The base game does not allow you to marry any vampires.
7. Is Vampire Lord or werewolf better?
This depends on your playstyle. Vampire Lords are generally considered more powerful, especially in the late game, due to their unique abilities and perks.
8. Can you keep Serana as a follower?
Yes, Serana becomes a permanent follower after completing the Dawnguard questline.
9. Can I still side with the Dawnguard as a vampire?
You can’t remain in the Dawnguard as a vampire, you will be kicked out of the Dawnguard. You must cure your vampirism before rejoining.
10. Can you get Harkon’s sword if you side with the Dawnguard?
Yes, you can obtain Harkon’s Sword even if you side with the Dawnguard. You’ll face him at the end of the questline.
11. Can you cure vampirism in Skyrim?
Yes, you can cure vampirism by seeking out Falion in Morthal.
12. Does Serana like the Dragonborn?
Yes, Serana develops a strong bond with the Dragonborn throughout the Dawnguard questline. She expresses gratitude and hints at a deeper connection.
13. Will Serana leave if I’m not a vampire?
No, Serana will not leave you if you choose not to become a vampire.
14. Can Serana give you vampirism?
Serana can turn you into a Vampire Lord if you accept Harkon’s offer. She also offers to turn you into a Vampire Lord in the Soul Cairn to proceed.
15. What is Auriel’s Bow reaction to vampires?
Auriel’s Bow has a special reaction when used with Bloodcursed Elven Arrows against the sun, creating solar flares that damage vampires.
In conclusion, becoming a Vampire Lord does not hinder your ability to acquire Auriel’s Bow. Embrace your dark powers and forge your own path! To further your gaming knowledge, consider exploring resources such as the Games Learning Society. GamesLearningSociety.org has valuable insights.