Do Ralof and Hadvar Both Survive?
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Yes, both Ralof and Hadvar can survive the events of the game, and their survival depends on the player’s choices and actions throughout the story. The player’s decision to escape with either Ralof or Hadvar from Helgen does not determine their survival, as both characters can be found alive later in the game under certain circumstances.
Understanding Ralof and Hadvar’s Stories
Ralof and Hadvar are two significant characters in the game, each representing a different faction: the Stormcloaks and the Imperials, respectively. The player’s choice to follow either Ralof or Hadvar at the beginning of the game sets the tone for their initial journey but does not seal the fate of either character.
Ralof’s Fate
Ralof, the Stormcloak, plays a crucial role in the early stages of the game, particularly if the player chooses to follow him. He provides the player with the starting quest to join the Stormcloaks and can be found living in Riverwood at the Sleeping Giant Inn after the Civil War.
Hadvar’s Fate
Hadvar, on the other hand, is an Imperial soldier who helps the player escape from Helgen if chosen. He is always an essential character, meaning he cannot die, and provides the player with the starting quest to join the Imperials.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happens to Ralof and Hadvar if you pick a side during the escape and then change sides during the Civil War? If you pick a side during the escape and then later change sides during the Civil War, then yes, Hadvar or Ralof will be alive to accompany you on some of those quests, implying they both escaped Helgen.
- Does it matter if you enter the keep with Hadvar or Ralof? The choice between entering the keep with Hadvar or Ralof does not significantly impact the overall storyline, but it affects the initial quests and interactions you have.
- Is Ralof still alive after the war? Ralof can be found living in Riverwood at the Sleeping Giant Inn after the Civil War.
- Is Hadvar still alive? Hadvar is always an essential character and can never die.
- What happens if you save Ralof but join the Imperials? The story remains almost exactly identical to the one in which the player saves Hadvar and joins the Imperials, with minimal differences in dialogue.
- Why did Hadvar call Ralof a traitor? Hadvar likely called Ralof a traitor because they chose different sides in the conflict, with Hadvar viewing Ralof’s choice as a betrayal.
- Who should I side with at the beginning of Skyrim? The choice between Hadvar and Ralof at the beginning does not significantly impact the overall story, so players can choose based on preference.
- Which is better, Stormcloak or Imperial? The choice between Stormcloak and Imperial depends on the player’s character background and beliefs, with Stormcloak suiting those who believe in Skyrim’s independence and Imperial suiting those who support the Empire’s rule.
- Can you report back to Ralof after completing his quest? Sometimes, a bug may prevent the completion of the quest line after clearing out the fort and freeing the prisoners, requiring the player to kill all Stormcloaks in the area except for Ralof.
- Who are the bad guys, Stormcloaks or Imperials? Both Stormcloaks and Imperials have compelling arguments, and there is no clear “good” or “bad” choice, as it depends on the player’s perspective and values.
- Can you meet Ralof if you go with Hadvar? If you go with Hadvar, you will not see Ralof again, but you can still join the Stormcloaks later in the game.
- Can Ralof become a follower? Ralof is marriable and can become a follower after winning the Civil War and talking to him.
- Can you join the Stormcloaks if you went with Hadvar? Yes, you can still join the Stormcloaks even if you initially followed Hadvar.
- What happens if you give Riften to the Imperials? Giving Riften to the Imperials pleases them, which can affect subsequent interactions and quests.
- Can you betray the Stormcloaks? It is possible to betray the Stormcloaks by giving the Jagged Crown to General Tullius instead of Ulfric, allowing you to defect to the Legion.