Having played Oblivion for several years, I decided to dive right in with Skyrim, after installing the UOP and SkyUI, without reading any spoilers or tips. I chose the Breton race. I am playing at default (adept) difficulty.

Around level 8 I got the first Companions quest, which was (a radiant one) to go to Dark Fang Cave and whack some vampires. After 6 or so attempts I manage to kill the first one and several skeletons in the first room. The two I encountered in the next room were impossible for me, so I left to do it later.

Now I am level 10, and I encountered a troll and frost troll that were impossible for me to kill. The frost troll kills me in 3-4 hits, and my attacks on him seem to do nothing to his health bar. Just before the trolls a dragon attacked me, and 10 tries later I finally beat it. Why are the trolls harder than a dragon???

So, the last thing I did was find the Greybeards and get the additional voices. However, it seems I can only kill bandits, wolves, and frost spiders.

I have improved my armor and weapons as far as my level will allow, but none are enchanted yet. I found few soul gems but no soul trap ability.

I am following the story path as I go. Am I doing it wrong? It doesn't feel right that I am so weak at level 10. Or is Skyrim like Oblivion with OOO, where you can expect to encounter creatures and NPCs you can't defeat at your level?

Thanks!

What skills are you dabbling in?

Skyrim at first seems a bit harder, but you'll learn that the old practice of trying to survive a slugfest isn't needed anymore. Dance like a butterfly and you'll get the hang of it.

What weapons and armor do you have? And don't worry, frost trolls are [censored]s to everyone, you just learn new strategies to take them down. Also, get a follower to help out.