Meeting with Gerdur | Before the Storm

In this section of our guide to The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, we provide a step-by-step walkthrough for the initial stage of the main quest Before the Storm. Our guide details how to reach Riverwood and locate Gerdur, with whom the protagonist must speak.

New main objective: Talk to Gerdur in Riverwood

Note that this objective only applies if you chose to befriend Ralof during the Unbound main quest. If you allied with Hadvar instead, proceed to the Meeting with Alvor quest.

Consult your map to confirm that Riverwood lies to the north of the Helgen Keep exit (as shown in the above image). However, you need not travel in a straight line, and can follow the main path if you prefer. Stick close to Ralof if possible, as you will temporarily part ways later on.

Along the way, we recommend stopping at the Guardian Stones (as depicted in the above image). Interact with either the Thief Stone, Mage Stone, or Warrior Stone to receive a blessing and boost your skills in the corresponding field by 20%.

Continue northward and be prepared to fend off Wolves (as seen in the above image). If Ralof is nearby, the fight should be relatively simple. Otherwise, proceed with caution and tackle the wolves one at a time. Search their bodies afterwards and continue on to Riverwood.

Upon arriving in Riverwood, reunite with Ralof and head to the sawmill. Here, you will engage in a lengthy conversation with Ralof, Gerdur, and Hod (as shown in the above image). Note that Gerdur offers you several complimentary items that you should add to your inventory. The conversation will reveal that you must meet with the Jarl of Whiterun and inform him of the dragon attack, so that he can send troops to Riverwood. Before departing, we suggest accepting the invitation to visit Hod and Gerdur’s house for additional information. Further details can be found in the Going to Whiterun section.

FAQ

1. Who is Gerdur and why is meeting with her important?

Gerdur is a character in the popular video game Skyrim. She is a resident of Riverwood, a small town located in the game’s world. Meeting with Gerdur is important because she will provide the player with valuable information about the main questline of the game, specifically about the dragon attack that takes place at the beginning of the game.

2. Where can I find Gerdur in the game?

Gerdur can be found in Riverwood, specifically at her family’s mill. This is one of the first locations that the player will come across in the game, as it is located near the starting point of the main questline. Gerdur can also be identified by her distinctive red hair and clothing.

3. What should I do during the meeting with Gerdur?

During the meeting with Gerdur, the player should pay close attention to the information that she provides about the dragon attack. This information will be crucial for understanding the main questline of the game and will help the player progress through the story. Additionally, the player may want to ask Gerdur about any side quests or tasks that she may have available, as completing these can provide valuable rewards and experience points.

4. What happens after the meeting with Gerdur?

After the meeting with Gerdur, the player will receive the main questline objective of traveling to Whiterun to speak with the Jarl. This will involve traveling to a new location and encountering new characters and challenges. However, the information provided by Gerdur will be crucial for understanding the context and importance of this objective.

5. Can I return to Gerdur later in the game?

Yes, the player can return to Gerdur and Riverwood at any time during the game. However, it is important to note that Gerdur’s specific role in the main questline will be completed after the initial meeting, so there may be limited reasons to return to her specifically. However, Riverwood can still serve as a useful location for trading, resting, and completing side quests.