Who is the Most Interesting Spouse in Skyrim?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Choosing a spouse in Skyrim is more than just finding someone to cook dinner and open a shop. It’s about finding a companion who adds depth and flavor to your Dragonborn’s often solitary existence. While “interesting” is subjective, for many players, the most intriguing spouse in Skyrim is Aela the Huntress. She offers a complex blend of fierce independence, primal connection to nature, and a fascinating werewolf identity, making her a consistently engaging partner throughout your Skyrim adventure.
Aela the Huntress: A Compelling Choice
Aela isn’t just another face in the crowd. She is a prominent member of the Companions, a Nord guild of warriors based in Whiterun. What makes her particularly fascinating are several key elements:
-
Werewolf Transformation: Aela is a werewolf, a secret she embraces and a significant aspect of her identity. Marrying her means accepting this primal side, which adds a layer of danger and intrigue to the relationship. You can even become a werewolf yourself through her, sharing in the experience.
-
Strong and Independent: She is far from a damsel in distress. Aela is a skilled archer, a respected warrior, and a leader within the Companions. Her strength of character is a welcome contrast to some of the more passive spouses available.
-
Unique Dialogue and Quests: As a member of the Companions, Aela has unique dialogue options and can provide ongoing quests. This keeps her involved in your gameplay long after the wedding bells have faded.
-
Roleplaying Potential: Aela offers incredible roleplaying potential. Will you embrace her werewolf nature, becoming a pack with her? Or will you seek a cure together, exploring the moral implications of lycanthropy? The possibilities are vast.
While other spouses have their charms – Ysolda’s entrepreneurial spirit, Mjoll the Lioness’ unwavering sense of justice, and Brelyna Maryon’s quirky magical experiments – Aela’s combination of warrior prowess, werewolf identity, and independent spirit consistently ranks her as one of the most popular and engaging choices for a spouse in Skyrim. Her presence genuinely enhances the game experience, offering a dynamic and compelling partnership that extends far beyond the simple benefits of marriage. The immersive qualities found within Skyrim can offer valuable insight into design, as explored by researchers at the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org).
Frequently Asked Questions About Skyrim Spouses
1. Can I become a werewolf by marrying Aela?
Yes! After completing the Companions questline, Aela can turn you into a werewolf. You’ll gain the ability to transform once per day (more with certain perks) and experience the power and ferocity of the beast form.
2. What benefits do I get from marrying Aela?
Like all spouses in Skyrim, Aela will cook you one home-cooked meal per day that temporarily boosts Health, Stamina, and Magicka. She’ll also generate a small income from running a shop, and you’ll gain the “Lover’s Comfort” bonus when sleeping near her.
3. Does Aela judge me if I’m a vampire?
No. Aela’s acceptance of your Dragonborn extends to vampirism. She will not comment negatively on your condition, making her a good choice for players embracing the vampire lifestyle.
4. Can I take Aela on quests after we are married?
Absolutely! If you marry a character who can already be a follower (like Aela), they will retain that ability. You can bring her along on your adventures, and she’ll fight by your side.
5. Where does Aela live after we get married?
Aela will move into whichever house you own in Skyrim. If you don’t own a house, she’ll stay in Jorrvaskr, the Companions headquarters in Whiterun.
6. Can Aela die?
As an “essential” character tied to the Companions questline, Aela cannot be killed by enemies. She can only die if you, the player, kill her. However, if you have a mod that removes essential character status, Aela can die like any other follower.
7. Can I divorce Aela?
Unfortunately, there is no way to divorce your spouse in Skyrim without using console commands (on PC) or mods. Marriage is intended to be permanent.
8. Are there any drawbacks to marrying Aela?
The only real drawback is that she is tied to the Companions questline, which may not appeal to all players. If you dislike the Companions or don’t want to become a werewolf, Aela might not be the best choice.
9. What other spouses are considered interesting in Skyrim?
Besides Aela, other spouses that stand out as interesting include Mjoll the Lioness (a strong warrior with a strong sense of justice), Brelyna Maryon (a novice mage with a penchant for experimentation), and Ysolda (an ambitious merchant with potential connections to shady dealings).
10. How do I marry Aela?
To marry Aela, you must complete the Companions questline. After becoming a member, wear an Amulet of Mara (purchased from Maramal in Riften) and speak to Aela. The dialogue option to propose marriage will appear.
11. Does marrying Aela affect the Companions questline?
No. Marrying Aela has no impact on the Companions questline. You can continue to complete quests for the guild and interact with its members as normal.
12. What happens if Aela dies?
If Aela dies (through player action or a mod), she’s gone permanently. There’s no way to revive her without using console commands or mods. And as previously mentioned, you can’t remarry.
13. Does Aela have any unique dialogue after marriage?
Yes. Aela has some unique dialogue options after marriage related to your shared life and her werewolf nature. These are not extensive but add to her character and the feeling of a real relationship.
14. Does Aela offer any unique items or services after marriage?
Besides the standard spouse benefits, Aela doesn’t offer any unique items or services tied specifically to her werewolf nature. However, she continues to provide quests related to hunting animals for the Companions.
15. How does Aela compare to other popular spouses in Skyrim?
Compared to spouses like Lydia (the default housecarl), Aela offers a more engaging personality and active role in your adventures. Compared to Mjoll the Lioness, Aela is less overtly righteous and more willing to embrace the darker aspects of Skyrim. Ultimately, the best spouse is a matter of personal preference, but Aela consistently ranks high due to her compelling combination of strength, independence, and primal allure.