In the rich and branching narrative ofThe Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, players often face difficult choices that define their character and shape the world around them. One of the most morally and narratively complex decisions is whether or not to kill Cicero, the eccentric and deeply devoted Keeper of the Dark Brotherhood. This choice arises during the Dark Brotherhood questline and has long sparked debates within the Skyrim community. Choosing whether to spare or kill Cicero affects the Brotherhood’s future, the player’s personal journey, and the broader themes of loyalty, madness, and justice within the game.
Understanding Cicero’s Role in the Dark Brotherhood
Who Is Cicero?
Cicero is the Keeper of the Night Mother, responsible for protecting her remains and ensuring the traditions of the Dark Brotherhood are upheld. Introduced in the ‘The Cure for Madness’ quest, Cicero is portrayed as highly theatrical, unstable, and deeply loyal to the old ways of the Brotherhood. His erratic behavior and obsession with the Night Mother put him at odds with Astrid, the leader of the current Brotherhood, who believes in adapting and modernizing the group’s operations.
The Conflict Within the Brotherhood
The central conflict revolves around tradition versus innovation. Cicero believes Astrid has betrayed the true purpose of the Brotherhood by steering away from the Night Mother’s guidance. His actions, though extreme, are driven by faith and duty. Astrid, on the other hand, views Cicero as a threat to her leadership and the Brotherhood’s survival. When Cicero attempts to assassinate her, the player is sent to track him down, leading to the pivotal decision point.
The Decision Point: Kill Cicero or Let Him Live
Confrontation at the Dawnstar Sanctuary
After Cicero flees to the abandoned Dawnstar Sanctuary, the player eventually corners him. Despite his earlier betrayal, Cicero lies wounded and defenseless. He pleads for his life, offering insight into his beliefs and reasoning. The game allows the player to choose: kill Cicero for his betrayal, or spare him in recognition of his loyalty to the Brotherhood’s original ideals.
Choice One: Killing Cicero
If the player chooses to kill Cicero, Astrid expresses approval, reinforcing her leadership and the current direction of the Brotherhood. Cicero dies, and the player is rewarded with gold and Astrid’s favor. The Sanctuary continues under Astrid’s guidance, and the Brotherhood’s focus remains practical and business-oriented.
Choice Two: Sparing Cicero
If Cicero is spared, he eventually rejoins the Brotherhood and becomes available as a follower. His dialogue, combat abilities, and unique personality make him one of the more memorable companions in the game. Sparing Cicero also aligns with the traditional values of the Brotherhood and the Night Mother’s intentions, especially since the Night Mother never commands his death.
Analyzing the Consequences
Narrative Impact
- Killing Cicero: Reinforces Astrid’s authority and reflects a pragmatic, perhaps ruthless character arc for the player.
- Sparing Cicero: Upholds the sanctity of Brotherhood tradition and may indicate a character more attuned to lore and loyalty.
Interestingly, the main storyline continues largely the same regardless of your decision. However, the tone and companions available to you can feel significantly different depending on the path you take.
Gameplay Impact
- Cicero as a Follower: If spared, Cicero becomes a permanent follower. His stealth abilities and combat skills, especially in one-handed weapons and sneaking, make him a strong ally for assassin builds.
- No Major Rewards for Killing: Other than Astrid’s approval and some loot, killing Cicero doesn’t grant significant gameplay advantages.
Emotional and Roleplaying Implications
For many players, the decision is less about loot and more about character development. Is your Dragonborn a cold mercenary who values loyalty only when it’s convenient? Or are they someone who believes in honoring ancient traditions, even if it means sparing a madman? Skyrim encourages players to craft their own moral compass, and Cicero’s fate is a mirror reflecting those choices.
Arguments for Killing Cicero
He’s a Threat to the Brotherhood
Cicero attempted to murder Astrid, putting the entire group at risk. Killing him ensures stability and eliminates future betrayal. If the player values order and the current Brotherhood’s success, this path seems justified.
He’s Unstable and Dangerous
His madness is evident, and sparing him might lead to unpredictable consequences. For a pragmatic player, removing a volatile element from a fragile organization may be the wise course.
Supports Astrid’s Leadership
Astrid trusts the player to complete this task. Choosing to follow her orders strengthens the current chain of command and may reflect loyalty to her vision of the Brotherhood.
Arguments for Sparing Cicero
He’s Loyal to the True Brotherhood
Cicero’s actions, though extreme, stem from a place of deep devotion. Sparing him honors the original creed of the Brotherhood and shows respect for its traditions.
The Night Mother Never Asks for His Death
Despite being the spiritual center of the Brotherhood, the Night Mother never commands that Cicero be killed. Players who respect her will take that silence seriously.
He’s a Unique and Entertaining Follower
Cicero brings a lot of character to the game. His quirky voice lines and combat effectiveness make him a favorite among fans who enjoy immersive roleplaying experiences.
What the Community Thinks
The debate over Cicero’s fate has persisted for years. Some players find him annoying and unstable, viewing his death as a necessary purge. Others appreciate his depth and role in preserving the Brotherhood’s legacy. On forums and fan discussions, opinions are often split, which speaks to the quality of Bethesda’s character writing and moral ambiguity in Skyrim.
Ultimately, the choice reflects not just what kind of Dragonborn you are, but also what kind of organization you believe the Dark Brotherhood should be. Should it be cold and professional under Astrid, or steeped in ancient rites under the Night Mother’s guidance through Cicero?
The decision to kill or spare Cicero in Skyrim is one of the most nuanced and impactful moral dilemmas in the game. While the mechanical differences between the two outcomes are minimal, the narrative weight and roleplaying implications are enormous. Players must consider loyalty, tradition, madness, and justice when making their choice. Whether you find Cicero a necessary evil or a dangerous liability, your decision will define your character’s path within the shadowy world of the Dark Brotherhood. In the end, the question of whether to kill Cicero or not reveals as much about the player as it does about the story itself.