Do I have to give up the Jagged Crown?
As you navigate the world of Skyrim, you may encounter the quest for the Jagged Crown, a symbol of power and authority that holds great significance in the world of Tamriel. But, as you obtain the crown, you may wonder if you’re obliged to give it up, and what the consequences will be if you do so. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of the quest and provide you with answers to these questions.
Direct Answer:
The short answer is that it depends on your choice in the Civil War questline. If you choose to side with the Stormcloaks, you will eventually have to give up the Jagged Crown. If you choose to side with the Empire, you won’t have to give up the crown, but instead, you’ll be tasked with betraying the Stormcloaks and handing it over to the Empire. However, there is an alternative path that allows you to keep the crown.
Understanding the Civil War Questline:
To understand the implications of obtaining the Jagged Crown, it’s essential to know how the Civil War questline unfolds. The Stormcloaks, led by Ulfric Stormcloak, are fighting for Skyrim’s independence from the Empire, while the Empire is determined to maintain its rule over the province.
You’ll be asked to take a side in this conflict, and your choice will determine the outcome of the quest. If you side with the Stormcloaks, you’ll be forced to confront the consequences of your decision, including potentially giving up the Jagged Crown.
The Fate of the Jagged Crown:
If you side with the Stormcloaks, you’ll eventually have to face Ulfric Stormcloak, who demands that you hand over the Jagged Crown. Failure to comply will result in Ulfric’s demise, and the Empire’s victory in the Civil War.
However, if you side with the Empire, you’ll be tasked with betraying the Stormcloaks and handing over the crown to General Tullius. This will enable the Empire to gain an upper hand in the war and solidify its grip on Skyrim.
An Alternative Path:
As mentioned earlier, there’s an alternative path that allows you to keep the Jagged Crown. If you begin the Imperial version of the quest and leave Helgen with Hadvar, you can keep the helm and continue with the Civil War questline. By doing so, you’ll be able to switch sides and betray the Stormcloaks, handing over the crown to the Empire. This path is often considered the most straightforward way to resolve the conflict.
What Happens if You Choose to Give Up the Jagged Crown?
Giving up the Jagged Crown has significant consequences. When you hand over the crown to Ulfric Stormcloak, you’ll trigger a sequence of events that ultimately leads to the war’s conclusion. The consequences of this choice are outlined below:
| Stormcloak Victory | Empire Victory |
|---|---|
| Ulfric’s death | General Tullius’ death |
| Skyrim gains independence | Empire maintains control over Skyrim |
What Happens if You Choose to Keep the Jagged Crown?
Choosing to keep the Jagged Crown has its own set of consequences. You’ll be able to retain the crown and continue fighting for the Stormcloaks or the Empire. By doing so, you’ll be able to influence the outcome of the war.
| Stormcloak Victory (with crown) | Empire Victory (with crown) |
|---|---|
| War concludes with the Stormcloaks victorious | War concludes with the Empire victorious |
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the decision to give up or keep the Jagged Crown is a crucial part of the Skyrim experience. Your choice will shape the fate of the province, and the consequences will echo throughout the game. Understanding the implications of your choice will help you make the most informed decision and tailor your experience to your own preferences.
Remember, as you navigate the world of Skyrim, the power to shape the future is at your fingertips. Choose wisely, and the fate of the Jagged Crown is yours to decide.