When playing The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, one of the most memorable and controversial companions you encounter is Cicero, the eccentric and unpredictable Keeper of the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary. Many players find themselves wondering whether to kill Cicero or keep him alive as part of their Dark Brotherhood storyline. This dilemma is not just about gameplay decisions but also about the character’s role in the story, the impact on quests, and the emotional connection players may develop. Deciding whether to kill Cicero is a complex choice that affects the tone of your Dark Brotherhood experience, and understanding the pros and cons of each path can help players make an informed decision.
Who Is Cicero?
The Keeper of the Dark Brotherhood
Cicero is a quirky and theatrical assassin who serves as the Keeper of the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary. His personality is marked by erratic behavior, a creepy laugh, and a fanatical devotion to the Night Mother, the spiritual figure revered by the Dark Brotherhood. Cicero’s presence in the game brings a mix of comic relief and unsettling moments, making him one of the most distinctive NPCs in Skyrim.
Role in the Dark Brotherhood Questline
Cicero plays a key role in the Dark Brotherhood questline, especially in the later stages. He assists the player in various assassination missions and is involved in crucial story events that shape the fate of the Brotherhood. His erratic behavior and eventual betrayal of the player create dramatic tension and lead to a critical decision point: should you kill him or spare him?
Reasons to Kill Cicero
His Betrayal and Madness
One of the main reasons players consider killing Cicero is his betrayal during the quest ‘Hail Sithis!’. Cicero’s loyalty becomes questionable as his actions threaten the stability of the Dark Brotherhood. His obsession with the Night Mother drives him to madness, making him unpredictable and dangerous to both the player and the Brotherhood’s future.
Removing a Troubling Influence
For players who want a more stable and serious Dark Brotherhood experience, killing Cicero removes the chaotic element from the Sanctuary. His eccentric behavior, while entertaining, can be seen as disruptive or irritating, especially for those who prefer a darker and more serious tone in their gameplay.
Access to Unique Loot
By killing Cicero, players can obtain unique items such as the Nightingale Hood and Nightingale Armor set pieces, which are highly sought after for their stealth bonuses. Killing Cicero unlocks these items immediately without needing to progress further into the questline.
Reasons to Spare Cicero
Emotional Depth and Character Development
Sparing Cicero allows players to explore a deeper, more nuanced relationship with the character. His loyalty, despite his madness, and his tragic backstory add layers of emotional complexity to the Dark Brotherhood narrative. Keeping him alive can enhance the roleplaying experience by highlighting themes of loyalty, madness, and redemption.
Continued Companion Support
Cicero can become a useful follower if spared. His unique combat style and entertaining personality make him a memorable companion on the road. For players who enjoy having a quirky ally and appreciate his dark humor, sparing Cicero adds value to the game beyond the questline.
Impact on the Dark Brotherhood Storyline
Choosing to spare Cicero affects the ending of the Dark Brotherhood questline. His presence in the Sanctuary brings a mix of chaos and charm, and the final outcomes of the Brotherhood’s fate subtly shift based on this choice. For players invested in narrative variation, keeping Cicero alive opens up a different perspective on the Brotherhood’s legacy.
Gameplay Consequences of Killing or Sparing Cicero
Changes in Quest Outcomes
Killing Cicero streamlines the Dark Brotherhood storyline by removing one source of internal conflict, allowing players to focus on the core missions without distraction. Sparing him, however, leads to additional dialogue and quest variations that add complexity and depth to the experience.
Companion Availability
As a follower, Cicero offers unique combat animations and skills. If killed, players lose the chance to travel with one of the most distinctive companions in the game. This affects not only gameplay but also the overall atmosphere during exploration and combat.
Access to Items and Rewards
Killing Cicero grants immediate access to unique armor pieces and weapons, while sparing him may delay or alter the way these rewards are obtained. Players who prioritize gear optimization might lean towards killing him for practical reasons.
Roleplaying and Moral Considerations
Player Choice and Immersion
The decision to kill or spare Cicero is deeply tied to personal roleplaying preferences. Some players see Cicero as a tragic figure deserving mercy, while others view him as a liability to the Brotherhood’s survival. This choice enhances immersion by allowing players to shape their character’s morality and leadership style within the assassin’s guild.
Thematic Implications
Killing Cicero emphasizes themes of ruthless pragmatism and the harsh realities of a dark assassin’s life. Sparing him introduces themes of compassion, forgiveness, and the cost of loyalty. Both choices contribute to a richer narrative and encourage players to reflect on the consequences of their actions.
Community Opinions and Popular Choices
Split Opinions Among Players
The Skyrim community remains divided on the best approach to Cicero. Some players enjoy the chaos and humor he brings and prefer to keep him alive, while others opt for a more serious and streamlined Dark Brotherhood experience by killing him. This division reflects the character’s polarizing nature.
Mods and Alternate Endings
Many mods offer expanded content related to Cicero, providing alternative storylines or making it easier to spare him without penalty. These mods highlight the community’s fascination with Cicero and offer players additional ways to explore his character beyond the base game’s options.
Deciding whether to kill Cicero in Skyrim is one of the game’s most personal and impactful choices. It shapes not only the Dark Brotherhood questline but also your relationship with a unique and unforgettable character. Consider your playstyle, roleplaying preferences, and the kind of narrative you want to experience when making this decision. Whether you see Cicero as a dangerous madman who must be stopped or a loyal, if flawed, companion deserving of mercy, your choice will leave a lasting impression on your journey through the shadows of Skyrim.