Do the Companions Ever Stop Giving Work in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide
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The short answer is no, the Companions in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim never truly stop giving work. While the main questline, culminating in “Glory of the Dead,” does have a definitive end, the radiant quest system ensures a continuous stream of tasks to keep you busy in the world of Tamriel.
Understanding Radiant Quests
Radiant quests are procedurally generated, meaning they are not pre-scripted and fixed. Instead, the game selects from a pool of possible objectives, locations, and targets, creating a seemingly endless supply of content. This is why you’ll often find yourself sent to different locations to clear out dungeons, hunt animals, or retrieve items for the Companions, even after becoming the Harbinger. These radiant quests are designed to provide ongoing gameplay and a sense of belonging to the Companions guild, long after the main storyline concludes. Think of it as the Companions keeping the lights on and the coffers filled!
The Harbinger’s Role: Adviser, Not Leader
It’s important to remember that even as the Harbinger, you are not the absolute leader in the traditional sense. As the text indicated, it is more correct to think of the Harbinger as an adviser, since there has not been a true leader since Ysgrimor. The Companions operate as a council, and while you hold a prominent position, the radiant quests represent the everyday workings of the guild, managed by other members such as Aela the Huntress, Farkas, and Vilkas. They need work done, and you, as a valued member, are expected to contribute, adding to the replayability and longevity of the game. The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) often examines such game design techniques and their effect on player engagement.
FAQs About the Companions and Their Quests
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Companions and their quest system in Skyrim, providing more in-depth answers for those seeking to master this aspect of the game:
Can I Refuse Companion Quests?
Yes, you can refuse radiant quests offered by the Companions. There are no real in-game consequences for turning down a quest. However, repeatedly refusing quests from a particular member might slightly lower your standing with them.
Do I Have to Become a Werewolf to Join the Companions?
Yes. To progress through the main Companions questline, you must become a werewolf. This is a mandatory part of the initiation process. You are unable to complete the questline without it.
Can I Cure My Lycanthropy After Completing the Companions Questline?
Yes, after completing the Companions questline and the associated quest involving the Glenmoril Witches, you can cure your lycanthropy. You can do this through the quest “Purity” from Farkas or Vilkas.
Will Curing My Lycanthropy Affect My Marriage to Aela the Huntress?
No. Curing your lycanthropy will not affect your marriage to Aela the Huntress. Once married, your relationship remains intact regardless of your status as a werewolf or human.
Can I Become a Vampire After Marrying Aela?
Yes. You can become a vampire after marrying Aela. She will not object or leave you due to your vampiric state. If you complete the Dawnguard questline with the vampires, Serana can even turn you into a vampire lord.
Can Aela Die Permanently?
Aela can die permanently. While she is a valuable follower, she is not marked as “essential” after the Companions questline is finished. This makes players be careful.
Is There a Limit to How Many Radiant Quests the Companions Can Give?
No. The radiant quest system is designed to be virtually limitless. As long as you are willing to accept them, the Companions will continue to offer new tasks.
Are All the Companions Questgivers?
No, not all Companions offer radiant quests. Aela the Huntress, Farkas, and Vilkas are the primary questgivers for radiant tasks. Others, like Njada Stonearm and Ria, focus on training and other guild-related activities.
Do the Totem Quests Ever End?
No, the Totem of Hircine quests, given by Aela, are also radiant and never-ending. You’ll need to complete a number of standard radiant quests in between the totem quests for the next one to unlock, though.
Can I Join the Companions as a Vampire?
Yes, you can initiate the Companions questline as a vampire. However, drinking the werewolf blood will cure your vampirism. You can later become a vampire again if you choose.
Does the Dawnguard Accept Werewolves?
Yes, you can join the Dawnguard as a werewolf. They don’t discriminate against lycanthropy. However, some dialogue may reflect their general dislike of monsters.
What Are the Benefits of Marrying Aela the Huntress?
Marrying Aela provides several benefits. She is a skilled archer and a powerful follower, making her a valuable asset in combat. Additionally, she can train you in archery, saving you gold. The Games Learning Society may be able to look into this, and provide insight into training strategies.
Can Farkas or Vilkas Become Vampires?
No. Farkas and Vilkas cannot become vampires due to their inherent lycanthropy. Werewolf blood provides immunity to vampirism.
Why Can’t I Marry Aela Even Though I’m Wearing the Amulet of Mara?
Simply wearing the Amulet of Mara is not enough. You must first speak with Maramal, the priest of Mara in Riften, to learn about the marriage process in Skyrim. Only then will NPCs recognize your intention to propose.
Can I Turn Lydia into a Vampire?
Yes, you can turn Lydia into a vampire if you side with the Volkihar vampires in the Dawnguard DLC.