Skyrim Call Durnehviir: An In-Depth Guide to Summoning the Dragon of Souls

Introduction

In the vast and unforgiving realm of Skyrim, the ability to summon powerful allies is essential for survival. One such ally, Durnehviir, the Dragon of Souls, can be a formidable companion in battle if summoned correctly. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information and techniques to successfully call upon Durnehviir and harness his formidable power.

Background on Durnehviir

Durnehviir is a unique and ancient undead dragon who serves as the guardian of the Soul Cairn, a desolate plane of existence where souls are trapped and tormented. Long ago, Durnehviir allied with the Ideal Masters, the enigmatic beings who rule the Soul Cairn, and pledged to safeguard their realm. However, the Ideal Masters have granted you the ability to temporarily summon Durnehviir to the mortal world, provided you possess a certain artifact and meet their specific conditions.

Summoning Durnehviir: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Acquire the Soul Cairn Gem

The Soul Cairn Gem is a key artifact that allows you to open a portal to the Soul Cairn and summon Durnehviir. You can obtain the gem by completing the "Conjuration Ritual" quest, which can be initiated by speaking to Festus Krex, a necromancer found in the College of Winterhold.

2. Enter the Soul Cairn

Once you have the Soul Cairn Gem, approach the Ritual Stone located at the top of the College of Winterhold's Hall of Attainment. Activate the stone and use the gem to open a portal. Step through the portal to enter the Soul Cairn.

3. Find Durnehviir's Tomb

Navigate the Soul Cairn until you reach Durnehviir's Tomb, located in the western part of the realm. Approach the tomb's entrance and activate the summoning plinth.

4. Summon Durnehviir

Stand on the summoning plinth and recite the following incantation: "Durnehviir, I summon you from the Soul Cairn." The plinth will begin to glow, and Durnehviir will emerge from the tomb, ready to fight alongside you.

Durnehviir's Abilities and Role in Combat

Durnehviir is a powerful undead dragon who possesses a wide range of abilities that can turn the tide in your favor in battle:

• Soul Burst: Durnehviir releases a powerful pulse of energy that damages enemies within a wide radius.
• Soul Drain: Durnehviir absorbs the soul of a fallen enemy, restoring his health and increasing his power.
• Spectral Arrow: Durnehviir shoots a spectral arrow at enemies, dealing significant damage from a distance.
• Soul Cloak: Durnehviir creates a protective barrier around himself and his allies, absorbing some of the damage they receive.

In combat, Durnehviir excels as a ranged damage dealer and support unit. His potent abilities allow him to control the battlefield, drain enemy health, and protect both himself and his allies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Summoning Durnehviir is not without its pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid:

• Summoning Durnehviir Too Early: Durnehviir can only be summoned once per in-game day. If you summon him prematurely, you will have to wait until the next day to summon him again.
• Not Activating the Summoning Plinth: Failing to activate the summoning plinth at Durnehviir's Tomb will prevent you from summoning him. Ensure you stand on the plinth and initiate the ritual correctly.
• Summoning Durnehviir in Indoor Areas: Durnehviir is a massive creature and cannot be summoned in indoor locations. Make sure you are outdoors in a spacious area when attempting to summon him.
• Fighting Durnehviir After Summoning Him: Although Durnehviir is your ally when summoned, attacking him will turn him hostile. Avoid accidentally targeting him to prevent a fight.

Why Summoning Durnehviir Matters

Summoning Durnehviir provides several significant benefits:

• Overwhelming Damage Output: Durnehviir's potent abilities can deal massive damage to multiple enemies, making him an invaluable asset in large-scale battles.
• Soul Absorption: Durnehviir's ability to absorb enemy souls not only heals him but also increases his power over time. This makes him a self-sustaining companion who can stay in battle for extended periods.
• Battlefield Control: Durnehviir's Soul Burst and Spectral Arrow abilities allow him to control the flow of combat, disrupting enemy formations and keeping them at bay.
• Support for Allies: Durnehviir's Soul Cloak ability shields both himself and his allies, providing additional protection in the midst of chaos.

Pros and Cons of Summoning Durnehviir

Pros:

• High damage output
• Self-sustaining ability
• Battlefield control
• Support for allies

Cons:

• Can only be summoned once per in-game day
• Requires the Soul Cairn Gem to summon
• Cannot be summoned indoors
• May become hostile if attacked

Conclusion

Summoning Durnehviir, the Dragon of Souls, is a formidable power that can elevate your gameplay in Skyrim. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully summon and harness Durnehviir's abilities to gain an advantage in battle. Remember to avoid common pitfalls and consider the pros and cons before summoning him to maximize his effectiveness. May Durnehviir's soul-consuming presence aid you in your adventures across Skyrim.

Additional Tips and Tricks

• Combine Durnehviir with Other Conjuration Spells: Summoning Durnehviir alongside other conjuration spells, such as Dremora Lord or Storm Atronach, can create a powerful team of allies to overwhelm your enemies.
• Use Durnehviir to Distract Enemies: Durnehviir's imposing presence can draw enemy attention away from you, allowing you to focus on other objectives or heal yourself.
• Summon Durnehviir in Strategic Locations: Place Durnehviir in areas where he can effectively control the battlefield, such as choke points or high ground.
• Protect Durnehviir with Healing Spells: Durnehviir is undead and cannot be healed with traditional methods. However, you can use healing spells to restore his health indirectly by casting them on yourself or your other allies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I dismiss Durnehviir?
A: To dismiss Durnehviir, simply approach him and select the "Dismiss" option.

Q: Can I summon Durnehviir multiple times in a row?
A: No, Durnehviir can only be summoned once per in-game day.

Q: What happens if I attack Durnehviir?
A: If you attack Durnehviir, he will become hostile and fight you.

Q: Is summoning Durnehviir worth it?
A: Summoning Durnehviir can be a significant advantage in battle, especially if you need additional damage output and battlefield control.

Tables

Table 1: Durnehviir's Abilities

Table 2: Benefits of Summoning Durnehviir

Table 3: Pros and Cons of Summoning Durnehviir

Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Summoning Durnehviir