Should I Spare Cicero in Skyrim? A Definitive Guide
The question of whether to spare Cicero in Skyrim is a classic dilemma, a moral crossroads faced by every Dragonborn who joins the Dark Brotherhood. The short answer? Yes, you should spare him. While the decision initially feels like a simple matter of justice versus mercy, the long-term benefits of letting Cicero live far outweigh any perceived advantages of ending his life. He’s not just a quirky character; he’s a powerful follower, a source of unique dialogue, and a key element in preserving the eccentric spirit of the Dark Brotherhood. Killing or sparing Cicero still makes no difference, besides the opportunity to have him as your follower.
Cicero: More Than Just a Jester
Understanding Cicero’s Character
Before diving into the pros and cons of sparing Cicero, it’s essential to understand his character. Cicero is the Keeper of the Night Mother, a vital role within the Dark Brotherhood. He’s… unusual, to say the least. His erratic behavior, his obsession with the Night Mother, and his apparent madness can be off-putting. However, his devotion to the Brotherhood and his proficiency as an assassin are undeniable. He firmly believes in the old ways, the traditions that have kept the Brotherhood alive for centuries, even if those ways seem barbaric to modern sensibilities.
The Moral Quandary
The quest that forces this decision upon the player, “The Cure for Madness,” places you in a difficult position. Cicero has broken down, becoming increasingly unstable and endangering the entire Sanctuary. Astrid, the leader of the Falkreath Sanctuary, orders you to kill him. This order forces the Dragonborn to choose between obeying their leader and potentially saving the Brotherhood’s most devoted member.
Why Sparing Cicero is the Better Choice
- Powerful Follower: Cicero is an incredibly strong follower. He excels in one-handed combat and sneak, making him an ideal companion for stealth-oriented players. His combat prowess can be a significant asset, especially on higher difficulty settings.
- Unique Dialogue and Roleplay: Cicero’s unique personality adds a distinct flavor to the game. His quirky comments, his constant chatter with the Night Mother, and his overall eccentricity make him one of the most memorable characters in Skyrim.
- Preserving the Brotherhood’s Tradition: Sparing Cicero aligns with the core principles of the Dark Brotherhood. He embodies the old ways, and by letting him live, you’re honoring the traditions that have sustained the organization for generations.
- Night Mother’s Approval: The Night Mother herself seems to favor Cicero. Sparing him can be interpreted as following her will, adding a layer of roleplaying depth to your decision.
- No Negative Consequences: There are virtually no negative consequences to sparing Cicero. Astrid may express some disapproval, but it doesn’t affect the overall storyline or your standing within the Dark Brotherhood.
The Consequences of Killing Cicero
While the immediate aftermath of killing Cicero might seem inconsequential, you miss out on several significant benefits. You lose a valuable follower, you remove a unique character from the game, and you potentially disrupt the balance of the Dark Brotherhood. You also get no special rewards for killing him that you wouldn’t get for sparing him.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Cicero and the choice to spare or kill him:
1. Can I marry Cicero?
No, you cannot marry Cicero in Skyrim. His devotion to the Night Mother is absolute, and he considers her the only “woman” he’ll ever be truly loyal to.
2. Does Cicero like the Dragonborn?
Cicero’s feelings towards the Dragonborn are complex. He doesn’t always show overt affection, but he respects your position within the Dark Brotherhood. If you choose to be more aligned with Dark Brotherhood values, he will be more aligned with you. As a follower, his respect can be seen as a “nice little bonus” for those who choose to keep him around.
3. What happens if I let Cicero live?
If you spare Cicero, he will eventually become available as a follower after completing the Dark Brotherhood questline and returning to the Dawnstar Sanctuary. He will stay there and will follow you. He is a highly skilled assassin and a valuable asset in combat.
4. Who is the strongest companion in Skyrim?
While strength is subjective and depends on your playstyle, Serana is widely considered the best follower in Skyrim due to her powerful magic abilities and essential status. However, Cicero is a strong and dependable melee follower.
5. Who is the best follower to sacrifice in Skyrim?
If you’re looking for a morally justifiable sacrifice, Ralis Sedarys is often considered the best choice. His questionable actions in the Dragonborn DLC make him a more palatable target for Boethiah’s Calling.
6. What is Cicero good at in Skyrim?
Cicero is exceptionally skilled in one-handed combat, particularly with daggers. He also has high sneak and light armor skills, making him a formidable assassin.
7. Does Astrid betray the Dragonborn?
Yes, Astrid does betray the Dragonborn later in the Dark Brotherhood questline. This betrayal sets in motion a series of events that lead to a significant turning point in the story.
8. Can you get Cicero’s armor without killing him?
Yes, you can obtain Cicero’s armor without killing him. The easiest way is to invest in the pickpocketing skill and attempt to steal his equipped clothing. Alternatively, you can use console commands on the PC version of the game to add the armor to your inventory.
9. Can you save Astrid in Skyrim?
No, Astrid’s death is a fixed event in the Dark Brotherhood questline. She cannot be saved, regardless of your actions.
10. What followers cannot be killed in Skyrim?
Several followers are designated as essential characters and cannot be killed. This list includes Aela the Huntress, Barbas (the talking dog), Cicero (after being spared), and several others. Their essential status ensures they remain alive throughout the game, regardless of how many dragon attacks they endure.
11. Who is the most loved character in Skyrim?
Popular opinion varies, but Paarthurnax is generally considered one of the most beloved characters in Skyrim due to his wise counsel and redemptive arc.
12. Who is the nicest spouse in Skyrim?
Again, personal preference plays a role, but Argis the Bulwark is often cited as one of the best spouses in Skyrim due to his loyalty, protectiveness, and overall pleasant demeanor.
13. What to do after helping Cicero?
After resolving the situation with Cicero at Loreius Farm, speak to Loreius (if you convinced him to help Cicero) or Cicero himself to receive a reward of 400 gold. If you report Cicero, Loreius will be found dead later after you join the Dark Brotherhood.
14. Where is Cicero if you spare him?
If you spare Cicero, he can be found at the Dawnstar Sanctuary after completing the Dark Brotherhood questline. He will be available as a follower at that time.
15. What happens to Cicero after you destroy the Dark Brotherhood?
If you choose to destroy the Dark Brotherhood, Cicero will disappear along with the Night Mother, effectively removing him from the game.
A Deeper Dive: Cicero and Games Learning
The decision to spare or kill Cicero presents a compelling case study for understanding moral decision-making in games. It engages players in complex ethical considerations, prompting them to weigh the immediate consequences of their actions against the long-term implications. Such dilemmas contribute to the Games Learning Society, where games serve as platforms for exploring and understanding human behavior, ethics, and social dynamics. Games are a crucial learning tool. The Games Learning Society provides a venue for researchers and educators to share insights and best practices in this burgeoning field, showing how games contribute to education. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
Final Verdict: Embrace the Madness
In conclusion, sparing Cicero is the more rewarding and ultimately more fulfilling choice in Skyrim. It provides you with a powerful and unique follower, enriches the game with his distinct personality, and aligns with the traditions of the Dark Brotherhood. While the decision may initially seem like a simple matter of right and wrong, the long-term benefits of letting Cicero live far outweigh any perceived advantages of ending his life. Embrace the madness, and you’ll find a valuable ally in the most unlikely of places. So, spare Cicero, and let the chaos begin!