Should I Let Cicero Live in Skyrim? A Deep Dive into a Moral Quandary
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So, you’ve reached that point in the Dark Brotherhood questline in Skyrim. You’re standing over the jester, Cicero, blade in hand, and the choice is yours: kill him or let him live. It’s a decision that has plagued many a Dragonborn, and the answer, like most things in Skyrim, is not so simple. In my (extensive) experience, the optimal choice is to let Cicero live. While the initial reaction might be to punish him for his erratic behavior and perceived betrayal, the long-term benefits of sparing him far outweigh the immediate gratification of ending his theatrical existence. Let’s unpack why.
The Case for Mercy: Why Cicero Deserves a Second Chance
He’s a Powerful Follower
The most practical reason to spare Cicero is his utility as a follower. After completing the Dark Brotherhood questline, Cicero becomes available as a companion. He is a skilled assassin with high stats in sneak, one-handed combat, and archery. This makes him an invaluable asset in combat and stealth scenarios. He’s also essential, meaning he cannot die, a huge advantage in tougher fights.
He Upholds Dark Brotherhood Tradition
While Cicero’s methods may seem extreme, he is, at his core, fiercely loyal to the Night Mother and the ancient traditions of the Dark Brotherhood. His actions, though sometimes misguided, stem from a desire to preserve the Brotherhood’s history and ensure its survival. Killing him not only eliminates a skilled member but also potentially weakens the Brotherhood’s connection to its roots. Consider this from a game studies perspective; the choices we make reflect not only our morality but also our understanding of the game world’s internal logic. The Games Learning Society explores these kinds of narrative impacts in games.
He’s a Unique and Entertaining Character
Let’s face it: Cicero is a delightfully unhinged character. His eccentric personality and constant babbling add a unique flavor to Skyrim. While some players find him annoying, others appreciate his quirky charm and the comedic relief he provides. His presence brightens the sometimes-dreary landscape of Skyrim. He is not just another generic NPC.
The Moral Argument
While the Dark Brotherhood is hardly a bastion of morality, the quest to kill Cicero presents a unique ethical dilemma. Astrid orders you to kill him not because he has committed any unforgivable crimes, but because he’s perceived as a threat to her leadership. Sparing him is, in a twisted way, an act of defiance against Astrid’s ambition and a return to the Brotherhood’s core principles.
He’s an Interesting Case Study in Game Design
Cicero’s character arc and the player’s choice to spare or kill him demonstrate the complex moral choices that can be woven into video games. His character challenges players to consider the nature of loyalty, tradition, and the consequences of their actions within a fictional world. Thinking about the game design elements, we can see that this is well crafted.
The Downsides of Sparing Cicero (And Why They Don’t Matter Much)
Potential Annoyance
Cicero’s personality can be grating to some players. His constant chatter and strange mannerisms might become tiresome over time. However, the benefits he brings to the table far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
Jester’s Outfit
Killing Cicero allows you to loot his unique Jester’s Outfit. However, a similar set of Jester’s Armor can be found within the Dawnstar Sanctuary. Further, you can pickpocket his current armor if your sneak and pickpocket stats are high enough.
Astrid’s Approval
Killing Cicero will earn you Astrid’s approval, at least temporarily. However, Astrid’s betrayal is inevitable, so her approval is ultimately meaningless in the grand scheme of the Dark Brotherhood questline.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Cicero
What happens if I kill Cicero?
You receive his Jester’s Outfit, some gold, and Astrid’s approval. However, you lose the opportunity to have him as a follower. You also lose the chance to learn more about the depth and breadth of the history of the Dark Brotherhood.
What happens if I spare Cicero?
He will become a follower after you complete the Dark Brotherhood questline. He will reside in the Dawnstar Sanctuary and be available for hire. Also, if you end up regretting your decision later, you can kill him for his outfit and dagger.
Is Cicero a good follower?
Yes! He is a very capable fighter, particularly in stealth scenarios. He is also an essential follower, meaning he cannot die, making him a reliable companion in dangerous situations.
Can I marry Cicero?
No. Cicero’s unwavering devotion to the Night Mother prevents him from forming romantic relationships with others.
Where can I find Cicero if I let him live?
He will be in the Dawnstar Sanctuary after the Dark Brotherhood questline is complete.
What is Cicero’s armor called?
It is called the Jester’s Outfit. It provides enchantments that boost sneak, one-handed attacks, and poison resistance.
Is Cicero evil?
That’s a matter of perspective. He is certainly eccentric and prone to violent outbursts, but his actions are motivated by his loyalty to the Night Mother and the Dark Brotherhood.
Can Cicero be killed as a follower?
No, because he is flagged as an essential NPC.
Is there a penalty for killing Cicero?
No, there is no direct in-game penalty. However, you miss out on the opportunity to have him as a follower and experience his unique personality.
Does Cicero like the Dragonborn?
He respects the Dragonborn, especially if you uphold the traditions of the Dark Brotherhood. While he might not always show it, he is honored to serve as your follower.
Who is the Night Mother?
The Night Mother is a revered figure within the Dark Brotherhood, believed to be the wife of Sithis and the source of their power.
Can I get Cicero’s armor without killing him?
Yes. If your pickpocket skill is high enough, you can steal his armor. Alternatively, you can use console commands (if playing on PC).
Can I sacrifice Cicero to Boethiah?
Yes. He’s a valid follower and can be used for the Boethiah’s Calling quest. However, that seems a particularly cruel fate for such a loyal, if crazy, individual.
Is Astrid a good person?
No. Astrid ultimately betrays the Dragonborn in a bid for power, making her an antagonist in the Dark Brotherhood questline.
Who is the strongest follower in Skyrim?
While there are many strong followers, Serana is often considered the best due to her unique abilities and essential status.
The Verdict: Spare Cicero!
In conclusion, while the decision to kill or spare Cicero might seem like a simple moral choice, it’s a multifaceted dilemma with significant implications for your Skyrim experience. His usefulness as a follower, his adherence to Dark Brotherhood tradition, and his uniquely entertaining personality make him a valuable asset. The minor drawbacks of sparing him are easily outweighed by the benefits he provides. So, next time you find yourself standing over Cicero, blade in hand, remember: let him live. You won’t regret it. Remember, the GamesLearningSociety.org is a great source of information on all things related to games.
This decision, at its core, speaks to the enduring appeal of choice in video games and how those choices impact our overall experience.