Skyrim Walkthrough: Before the Storm

You've escaped execution and are now out in the real world. At this point you can go where you want and do what you want. Initially it is advisable to follow the main quest as you'll learn some useful things such as blacksmithing etc, but also you'll be given some free items such as armor, weapons and potions - you'll also begin to learn of the civil war and the rumors relating to the re-appearance of dragons.

This quest is still pretty easy, but you will have to begin to watch encumberance and I advise that you begin to sell items that you do not require - not only will it help combat and movement, but it will also help you build a store of gold. At this point I'd find magic stores and buy health potions!

Objectives

• Talk to Gerdur in Riverwood
• Talk to the Jarl in Whiterun

While you don't have to follow your companion, it's useful to head to Riverwood and take your time to talk to your companion to find out more about the world. You'll encounter some wolves and can loot them.

Once in the village you'll find that your companion has relatives and you can talk and in most cases recieve supplies. At this point start 'playing' with the map - it'll not only help you from getting lost, but it also will show you nearby 'towns' and also allow you to 'fast travel'.

You'll come across some Stones on your way to the village and can use one of the stones to get a % bonus - you can only choose one (rogue, warrior or mage).

Find the person you're meant to talk to (look at the top of the screen for the compass - it'll show you the current 'marker' and allow you to quickly locate the quest component. Once you'll find the person indicated you'll be given a lot of equipment and supples.

After a while, and once you've talked to the 'person' your supposed to meet you'll be asked to go talk to Jarl in Whiterun. You can complete this straight away or try some of the mini-quests in the town of Riverwood - there's a quest that involves you helping or hindering a romance etc. These are easy quests but do give you a little experience.

Once you've finished all the mini quests, head off north towards Whiterun - you can use the compass to find Whiterun - quickest way it to go straight over the mountain.

You will meet a group of warriors fighting a giant - if you assist them you will find out about a group that you may be able to join. Head up to the top of the town and find Dragonsreach - you will have to talk to guards to get into the town, but this is simply a case of saying you need help for Riverwood.

Once inside Dragonsreach you will eventually get to talk to Jarl, who will send help once you tell him about the dragons - he will also provide you with your next quest.