Skyrim Walkthrough: a cornered rat

I would suggest that you attempt some of the sub-quests before moving on with the main quest. Things are getting tougher and tougher, and soon you'll need to be a pretty decent character simply to survive. Try and create a rounded character that has both decent combat skills, some good magic and some stealth skills.

You're going to need these skills as you progress through the next few quests; if you can try and get a decent lock-picking skill as it can lead to some easier routes during quests - it also allows you to open all chests and find loot you may normally miss out on.

The quests themselves are getting more intriguing and introducing you to many of the main players in the world of Skyrim - you have plenty of opportunities to join guilds as you travel, although I'd concentrate on one and try and complete many of the guild's quests.

The next quest will take you far southeast to Riften. It's a fair distance so if you need to gain a few levels it's a good idea to walk, otherwise I'd suggest getting a horse or paying a wagon.

Your task is to find Esbern - speak to Brynjolf near the market (or in the tavern at night) - he'll let you know about a thieves guild hideout under the city - the guild is protecting Esber - you will have to enter via the Ratway Warrens.

You meet two men straight away - they are pretty easy to beat. There are quite a few ways to get to your goal and if you are a decent rogue it's probably worth trying some of these ways - you need decent lock=picking skills, so most characters will end up moving southwest and finding a trap door - it is trapped so move back quickly when opening the door.

Go through the door and move south - you'll encounter a few enemies and an unaremed man - it's a fairly tough fight but by now you should be fairly high leveled and succeed without too much trouble. Keep following the compass markeet and kill the enemies in the next room. Go north and lower the draw bridge - go beack east and enter the Ragged Flagon. (Thieves guild hideout)

Find and talk to ekel. Try and persuae (or bribe) him for information about Esbern - if this doesn't work you can brawl - it's not too difficult assuming you've done a little brawling before. Once you've won, head east.

You'll face a Wizard and two Soldiers next. Take out the wizard first, with ranged attacks if possible. The two soldiers should be easy once you've defeated the wizard. Head south, you'll find two chests to unlock.

Go back to the main room and head south - unlock the lock on the left and you'll be in the main holding cells - you will be attacked but should have no problem. Head up and find Esbern - talk to Esbern and mention Delphine - quote here - he'll join you after hearing you are Dragonborn.

You'll have to fight a couple more soldiers Esbern may assist you as you fight.

Return to Riverwood and you'll find out about your next quest when Delphine meets Esbern.