One of the most poignant background stories in the game is the fate of the . Originally the rulers of Skyrim, they were driven underground by the early Nords. They sought refuge with the Dwemer (Deep Elves), who betrayed them by forcing them to eat toxic fungi. Over generations, this transformed the proud Snow Elves into the blind, feral, and twisted creatures known as the Falmer . Beyond the Main Quest
The story begins with you as a prisoner being carted toward execution in the town of Helgen. Just as the axe is about to fall, a black dragon——attacks the town, inadvertently allowing you to escape. Sexrim
: Nord rebels led by Ulfric Stormcloak , who fight for Skyrim's independence and the freedom to worship Talos. Tragic Lore: The Fall of the Snow Elves One of the most poignant background stories in
Summoned by the , an ancient order of monks living atop the highest mountain, you learn that Alduin is prophesied to destroy the world. To stop him, you must: Over generations, this transformed the proud Snow Elves
: This artifact allows you to peer back in time to learn the "Dragonrend" shout, the only power capable of forcing a dragon to land.
: After a climactic battle at the throat of the world, you pursue Alduin to the Nord afterlife, Sovngarde . There, with the help of three ancient Nord heroes, you finally defeat him and restore balance to the world. A Land Divided: The Civil War