Can You Marry Nocturnal in Skyrim? Unveiling the Daedric Romance Possibilities
Unfortunately, the direct answer is no, you cannot marry Nocturnal in Skyrim. While the game offers a wide range of marriage candidates across various races and backgrounds, Daedric Princes, including the enigmatic Nocturnal, are not among them. Your interactions with Nocturnal are limited to the Thieves Guild questline, where you forge a pact with her in exchange for her favor. However, this relationship remains purely transactional and doesn’t extend to romantic possibilities within the game’s mechanics.
Understanding Skyrim Marriages
Skyrim allows players to marry almost any character, regardless of gender or race, as long as they meet certain conditions, such as completing specific quests or earning their favor. Using an Amulet of Mara signals your romantic intentions, giving players freedom to choose a spouse that complements their character’s story. The game offers a diverse selection of spouses from different walks of life. However, Daedric Princes like Nocturnal are outside the scope of the romance system because they are supernatural beings from another realm with their own agendas.
The Allure of Nocturnal: Why Players Want to Wed the Night Mistress
Nocturnal is arguably one of the coolest and most powerful Daedric Princes. As the Mistress of Night, she presides over darkness, shadow, and mystery, and the patron of thieves. It’s easy to see why players would want to get down on their knees with their Amulet of Mara and beg her for marriage. Her influence permeates every aspect of Tamriel. Her enigmatic nature and compelling powers make her an incredibly interesting figure in the Elder Scrolls lore. Many players are drawn to her mystery and influence, making her a popular choice for those seeking a unique, powerful spouse.
The Nocturnal and Player Relationship
The heart of your interaction with Nocturnal lies within the Thieves Guild questline. You become a Nightingale, swearing an oath to protect her shrine for eternity. This isn’t a love story; it’s a pact. She provides you with certain benefits and favors, but she doesn’t want worship or reverence.
Exploring Alternative Romances in Skyrim
If you’re seeking a meaningful relationship in Skyrim, numerous marriageable NPCs can offer companionship, support, and shared adventures. Some popular choices include:
- Aela the Huntress: A fierce warrior from the Companions, Aela offers companionship and adventure. She is a popular choice among players.
- Lydia: Your loyal housecarl is always at your side, providing protection and support.
- Muiri: Living in Markarth, Muiri is often considered the best female marriage candidate in the game.
- Brelyna Maryon: A talented mage from the College of Winterhold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Marriage and Nocturnal in Skyrim
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the possibilities and limitations of romance and relationships in Skyrim:
1. Can you marry any Daedric Prince in Skyrim?
No. None of the Daedric Princes are available as marriage candidates in the base game. Their roles are primarily tied to quests, artifacts, and lore, not romance.
2. Are there any mods that allow you to marry Nocturnal?
Yes, there are mods created by the Skyrim community that alter the game and may allow you to marry Nocturnal. However, it’s important to research these mods thoroughly, as they may have compatibility issues or unintended consequences. Always read reviews and understand the mod’s features before installing it.
3. What is the Amulet of Mara, and how does it work for marriage?
The Amulet of Mara is an amulet obtained in Riften from Maramal. Wearing it signals your interest in marriage to eligible NPCs. If you speak to someone while wearing the amulet, and they are interested, a dialogue option will appear, allowing you to propose.
4. Can you marry someone of the same gender in Skyrim?
Yes. Skyrim allows same-sex marriage. Gender is not a restriction when it comes to choosing a spouse.
5. Can you marry a Jarl in Skyrim?
No. You cannot marry a Jarl in the unmodded version of Skyrim. NPCs that have a Jarl title such as Jarl Balgruuf are unable to be married.
6. Can you marry Vex from the Thieves Guild?
Unfortunately, you cannot marry Vex. She’s a key member of the Thieves Guild but is not a marriageable NPC.
7. What benefits do you get from marrying someone in Skyrim?
Marrying someone in Skyrim provides several benefits:
- Home-cooked meals: Your spouse will occasionally cook meals that provide temporary buffs.
- Shared income: They share a percentage of their earnings with you.
- Shopkeeping: They can run a shop, generating income for you.
- Companionship: They can act as a follower.
8. Who is considered the best wife in Skyrim?
The “best” wife is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, Aela the Huntress and Muiri are often cited as popular choices due to their skills, personalities, and usefulness.
9. Can you divorce your spouse in Skyrim?
In the unmodded version of Skyrim, there is no option for divorce. Once married, the union is permanent, and the only way to end it is through console commands (PC) or by reloading a previous save.
10. Is it possible to remarry if my spouse dies?
Yes. If your spouse dies, you are free to remarry another eligible NPC.
11. How do you become a vampire in Skyrim, and can your spouse become one too?
You can become a vampire by contracting the disease Sanguinare Vampiris from vampires, and by accepting Harkon’s blood. There are even quests that can allow you to become a vampire. Spouses cannot naturally become vampires; however, mods may allow you to transform them.
12. What is the relationship between Nocturnal and the Nightingales?
The Nightingales are a secret order of thieves dedicated to serving Nocturnal. They swear an oath to protect her shrine in exchange for her favor and protection. They have the role of guarding the Sepulcher.
13. Who are some of the most powerful Daedric Princes besides Nocturnal?
Other powerful Daedric Princes include:
- Sheogorath: The Daedric Prince of Madness.
- Mehrunes Dagon: The Daedric Prince of Destruction.
- Molag Bal: The Daedric Prince of Domination.
14. How does the Games Learning Society relate to Skyrim and gaming in general?
Organizations like the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) study the educational and social impact of video games like Skyrim. They examine how games foster problem-solving skills, creativity, and community building, and how these benefits can be applied to other areas of life. GamesLearningSociety.org emphasizes the value that games can have on learning.
15. What are some other interesting aspects of Daedric lore in Skyrim?
Daedric lore is rich and complex, covering a wide range of topics, including the creation of Oblivion, the motivations of the Daedric Princes, and their influence on the mortal world. Exploring Daedric quests and artifacts can provide deep insights into the Elder Scrolls universe. It allows gamers to explore the history of the Elder Scrolls and their role within the world.