Will I Lose Lydia if I Join the Stormcloaks in Skyrim? The Definitive Guide

No, joining the Stormcloaks in Skyrim will not inherently cause you to lose Lydia. However, the Battle for Whiterun questline, a key component of the Stormcloak storyline, can indirectly lead to her disappearance if specific steps aren’t taken. Lydia’s fate is tied to your status as Thane of Whiterun. Becoming Thane before completing the Battle for Whiterun is the key to ensuring she remains by your side, ready to carry your burdens (and your sword, if need be!).

Understanding Lydia and the Civil War

Lydia, the ever-loyal Housecarl assigned to you after becoming Thane of Whiterun, is a staple companion for many Dragonborns. Her straightforward combat style and unwavering dedication make her a valuable asset, especially in the early to mid-game. The Civil War questline, pitting the Imperial Legion against the rebellious Stormcloaks, introduces a layer of complexity. While the war doesn’t directly target Lydia, the events surrounding the Battle for Whiterun require careful navigation to avoid losing her.

The main issue arises when Whiterun changes hands. If you side with the Stormcloaks and conquer Whiterun, the city’s leadership shifts. This change can affect Lydia’s assigned location and trigger a glitch where she fails to reappear at Dragonsreach. The good news? This is easily preventable.

The Key: Thane Status Before the Battle

The crucial step is to become Thane of Whiterun before completing the Battle for Whiterun. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Complete the Dragonstone Quest: Progress through the main storyline until you slay the dragon Mirmulnir at the Western Watchtower.

2. Report to Jarl Balgruuf: Return to Dragonsreach and inform Jarl Balgruuf of your victory.

3. Become Thane: Jarl Balgruuf will task you with aiding the citizens of Whiterun Hold. Complete five quests for the residents (fetch quests, delivery quests, etc.).

4. Purchase a House: If you haven’t already, purchase Breezehome in Whiterun.

5. Receive Housecarl: After completing the citizen assistance quests and owning Breezehome, speak to Jarl Balgruuf. He will name you Thane of Whiterun and assign Lydia as your Housecarl.

6. Now Join the Stormcloaks: Only after completing the above should you progress with the Stormcloak questline and participate in the Battle for Whiterun.

By becoming Thane before the battle, Lydia retains her connection to you, regardless of the city’s change in leadership. If you dismiss her after the battle, she will reliably return to Breezehome, your house in Whiterun, rather than disappearing into the void.

What Happens if You Forget?

If you’ve already completed the Battle for Whiterun without becoming Thane, there’s still hope, though it may require some troubleshooting. Some players have reported that speaking to the new Jarl about becoming Thane after the battle can still trigger Lydia’s reappearance at Breezehome. However, this is not always guaranteed. If that doesn’t work, try these methods.

• Check Dragonsreach: Even though the original Jarl is gone, some players have found Lydia still lingering in Dragonsreach.
• Use the Console (PC Only): If you’re playing on PC, you can use console commands to teleport Lydia to your location or reset her. Be cautious when using console commands, as they can sometimes cause unexpected issues. The commands prid a2c94 (selects Lydia) followed by moveto player (moves her to your location) are common fixes.
• Reload an Earlier Save: This is the most reliable solution. If you have a save from before the Battle for Whiterun, reload it and complete the Thane quests before proceeding with the war.
• Consider Using Mods: Several mods are available that address follower behavior and can prevent Lydia from disappearing.

The Broader Impact of Your Choice

Joining the Stormcloaks has other consequences beyond Lydia’s fate. It impacts the political landscape of Skyrim, alters the characters you interact with, and can affect your overall gameplay experience. The choice between the Imperials and the Stormcloaks is a significant one, with long-lasting repercussions for the province of Skyrim. Many people study gaming and the impacts of games in society. One could explore the Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org for academic research and insights into the field.

FAQs: All About Lydia and the Stormcloaks

1. Can Lydia die permanently?

Yes, Lydia can die permanently. Unlike some other followers, she is not essential. Take caution when entering dangerous areas. Lydia is only able to be killed in three ways, your own attacks, enemies with poison/DoT damage when she is at low HP, or getting hit by an attack meant for you.

2. What happens to Lydia if I marry someone else?

If you marry another character, Lydia remains available as a follower. She will continue to reside in Breezehome or accompany you on your adventures.

3. Does Lydia level up with me?

Lydia does level up, but she has a level cap of 50. This means that in the late game, she may become less effective compared to other followers who can level higher.

4. Can I get Lydia back if she disappears after the Battle for Whiterun?

As outlined above, try speaking to the new Jarl about becoming Thane, checking Dragonsreach, using console commands (PC only), or reloading an earlier save.

5. Does joining the Stormcloaks affect my relationship with other followers?

Generally, no. Your choice in the Civil War has minimal impact on your relationship with other followers, except for those who are directly affiliated with either the Imperials or the Stormcloaks.

6. Is Lydia the best follower in Skyrim?

That’s subjective! Lydia is popular for her accessibility and early-game usefulness. However, other followers, such as Serana, offer unique abilities and storylines. It depends on your play style and preferences.

7. Can I make Lydia a Blade?

No, Lydia is not eligible to become a member of the Blades. Only certain followers can be inducted into the Blades.

8. What gear is best for Lydia?

Lydia excels in heavy armor and one-handed combat. Equip her with high-quality heavy armor, a powerful one-handed weapon, and a shield. Consider enchanting her gear to enhance her abilities.

9. Does Lydia have any unique dialogue?

Lydia’s dialogue is relatively limited compared to some other followers. However, she does have some unique lines related to your actions and the environment. She is famous for her “I am sworn to carry your burdens” line.

10. Can Lydia use magic?

While Lydia can use enchanted weapons, she does not have any inherent magical abilities. She primarily relies on melee combat.

11. Can I change Lydia’s class?

No, you cannot directly change Lydia’s class. However, by equipping her with different gear and focusing on specific skills, you can influence her combat style.

12. What happens if I accidentally kill Lydia?

If you accidentally kill Lydia, she will die permanently. Her body will remain where she fell, and you can loot her equipment. You will need to find another follower to replace her. You will inherit her items through a letter stating her inheritance.

13. Can I give Lydia commands?

Yes, you can give Lydia basic commands such as “Follow me,” “Wait here,” “Use this,” and “Attack this target.”

14. Is it possible to resurrect Lydia?

Without using console commands (PC only), it is not possible to resurrect Lydia if she dies.

15. Does Lydia have a backstory?

Lydia’s backstory is not explicitly detailed in the game. She is primarily defined by her role as your Housecarl and her loyalty to you.