The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Black Books & Apocrypha

Journey into Apocrypha through Black Books in Skyrim's Dragonborn DLC. Gain unique abilities like Secret of Arcana and Black Market.

Black Books & Apocrypha

Delve into the maddening realm of Apocrypha, the library of Hermaeus Mora, through the enigmatic Black Books scattered across Solstheim. These tomes offer potent, often reality-bending abilities and lore, but beware the Lurkers and Seekers that guard their secrets. Mastering Apocrypha is key to unlocking some of the most powerful boons in the Dragonborn DLC.

The journey into Apocrypha begins with finding the Black Books themselves. These are not found through typical quest markers but often require exploration and interaction with the environment. For instance, the first Black Book, 'Untold Legends,' is found within White Ridge Barrow, guarded by a powerful dragon priest. Upon reading a Black Book, you are transported to a surreal, ink-black landscape populated by ancient knowledge and dangerous entities. Within Apocrypha, you can learn new Shouts, gain permanent stat boosts, or acquire unique abilities that fundamentally alter your gameplay. These abilities are often tied to specific locations within Apocrypha, requiring you to navigate its labyrinthine passages and solve environmental puzzles. Seek out the 'Black Book: The Sallow Regent' for the 'Secret of Arcana' ability, allowing you to cast spells without expending Magicka for a short duration. Another crucial book, 'Black Book: Filament and Filigree,' grants you the 'Black Market' ability, allowing you to summon a merchant who sells rare and valuable items. Remember to collect the Black Books strategically, as each offers a unique advantage that can complement your chosen playstyle. The ultimate goal in Apocrypha is often to confront Hermaeus Mora himself, or at least to glean the knowledge he guards, which can lead to sificant power gains.

Key Locations & Items:

  • White Ridge Barrow: Location of 'Untold Legends'.
  • Raven Rock Mine: Contains 'The Winds of Oblivion'.
  • Tel Mithryn: Several Black Books can be found in and around this settlement.
  • Black Book: The Sallow Regent: Grants 'Secret of Arcana'.
  • Black Book: Filament and Filigree: Grants 'Black Market'.