In the vast and immersive world of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, few characters stand out as memorably or controversially as Cicero, the eccentric and unpredictable Keeper of the Dark Brotherhood. Players are often faced with a pivotal choice during their journey involving Cicero should they kill him or spare him? This decision can have significant consequences for your gameplay experience and the narrative arc of the Dark Brotherhood questline. Understanding the complexities behind Cicero’s character, his role in the story, and the pros and cons of each choice is essential for players who want to make an informed decision that aligns with their personal playstyle and moral compass.
Who Is Cicero?
The Keeper of the Dark Brotherhood
Cicero is a flamboyant and slightly unhinged character who serves as the Keeper for the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary. His primary role is to guard the Night Mother, a revered figure central to the Brotherhood’s lore. Cicero’s quirky personality, high-pitched voice, and erratic behavior make him one of the most distinctive NPCs in Skyrim. He provides comic relief, unsettling moments, and emotional depth, which contribute to the rich storytelling in the game.
His Importance to the Storyline
While Cicero may seem eccentric, he is deeply devoted to the Dark Brotherhood’s traditions and rituals. His dedication to the Night Mother and the survival of the Brotherhood adds layers of complexity to the quests he is involved in. Throughout the Dark Brotherhood storyline, players encounter Cicero in several key moments, including when he attempts to kidnap the Night Mother’s coffin or after the betrayal and destruction of the original sanctuary. His fate can influence the direction of the questline and how the Brotherhood evolves.
The Decision: Kill or Spare Cicero?
Killing Cicero
Choosing to kill Cicero is a popular decision among players who find his behavior annoying or unsettling. By eliminating Cicero, players remove his chaotic influence from the Brotherhood. This choice can feel like a way to restore order and stability, especially if you want a more serious tone for your Dark Brotherhood experience. Killing Cicero can also prevent some of his unpredictable actions later in the game.
Sparing Cicero
Sparing Cicero allows him to remain with the Brotherhood and even become a companion to the player. Those who appreciate his unique character and comic moments often choose to keep him alive. Sparing him adds additional dialogue, and Cicero’s presence can add an eccentric charm to the player’s journey. Moreover, his skills as a stealthy assassin make him a useful ally in combat situations.
How to Kill Cicero
The option to kill Cicero typically arises during the Dark Brotherhood questline, particularly after he betrays the sanctuary by stealing the Night Mother’s coffin. The player is given the chance to confront him and decide his fate. Killing him is straightforward: after the confrontation, players can attack and kill Cicero during the ensuing fight.
- Advantage: Removes an unpredictable element from the Dark Brotherhood.
- Disadvantage: Misses out on his unique dialogue and companionship.
- Effect: The Dark Brotherhood continues without Cicero, sometimes feeling more somber.
How to Spare Cicero
To spare Cicero, players must choose dialogue options during the confrontation that allow him to live. After sparing him, Cicero remains at the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary and can even become a follower, accompanying you on missions and adding flair to your adventures. His companion perk includes stealthy combat abilities and unique voice lines that enrich the gameplay experience.
- Advantage: Gains a unique and entertaining companion.
- Disadvantage: May feel chaotic or unsettling due to Cicero’s eccentric personality.
- Effect: Adds comic relief and emotional depth to the Dark Brotherhood storyline.
Gameplay Impact of the Decision
Combat and Utility
As a follower, Cicero offers practical benefits. He specializes in stealth and assassination techniques, fitting perfectly with the Dark Brotherhood’s style. His combat skills can provide support in fights, making difficult missions easier. Additionally, his unpredictable behavior can sometimes lead to amusing and surprising moments during exploration and battles.
Narrative and Roleplaying
The choice to kill or spare Cicero also heavily influences roleplaying opportunities. Players who enjoy a darker, more serious portrayal of their character may opt to kill him, seeing him as a liability. On the other hand, sparing Cicero opens up roleplaying avenues that embrace the Brotherhood’s madness and mystique. It allows players to explore the themes of loyalty, madness, and devotion within the Brotherhood’s ranks.
Player Opinions and Community Perspective
Within the Skyrim community, Cicero has a polarizing reputation. Some players love his quirky antics and consider him an iconic character, while others find him annoying or creepy. The decision to kill or spare Cicero often sparks lively debates among fans, reflecting broader discussions about morality, companionship, and narrative choices in RPGs.
- Fans of sparing Cicero: Appreciate the humor, personality, and unique gameplay benefits he provides.
- Fans of killing Cicero: Prefer a more serious tone and cleaner narrative, removing distractions from the core storyline.
Tips for Making Your Decision
Consider Your Playstyle
If you enjoy immersive roleplaying and value character-driven stories, sparing Cicero might be more rewarding. His quirks and unique dialogue can add richness to your journey. However, if you prefer a straightforward, focused gameplay experience without unexpected interruptions, killing him may suit you better.
Think About Your Dark Brotherhood Experience
The fate of Cicero influences the atmosphere of the Dark Brotherhood quests. Sparing him keeps the tone quirky and chaotic, while killing him leans toward a darker, more traditional assassin story. Reflect on which mood fits your vision of your character and the Brotherhood’s legacy.
Save Before Deciding
Because this is a significant choice with lasting consequences, it’s wise to save your game before the confrontation. This way, you can experiment with both options and experience how each affects your gameplay and story.
The decision to kill or spare Cicero in Skyrim is more than a simple choice; it shapes your Dark Brotherhood experience and character journey. Whether you eliminate Cicero to maintain order or keep him alive for his eccentric charm, both paths offer unique benefits and challenges. Understanding Cicero’s role, personality, and impact on gameplay helps players make a decision that truly resonates with their personal style. Ultimately, this choice adds depth to Skyrim’s rich storytelling and exemplifies the meaningful consequences of player agency in open-world RPGs.