Should I Keep or Return the Skeleton Key?
The Skeleton Key is a coveted item in the world of Skyrim, offering unparalleled lockpicking abilities and access to exclusive content. However, the question remains: should you keep or return the Skeleton Key? In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of each option, helping you make an informed decision.
What is the Skeleton Key?
Before we dive into the debate, let’s clarify what the Skeleton Key is. The Skeleton Key is a unique item that can be obtained by completing the Thieves Guild questline, specifically during the "Blindsighted" quest. It allows you to pick locks without fail, making it an invaluable tool for any would-be thief.
Keep the Skeleton Key
If you decide to keep the Skeleton Key, you’ll enjoy the following benefits:
- Unbreakable lockpicking: With the Skeleton Key, you’ll never have to worry about failing to pick a lock again. This is especially useful for those who prefer to sneak and steal their way through the game.
- Access to exclusive content: The Skeleton Key grants you access to certain areas and items that would otherwise be inaccessible.
- Increased freedom: With the Skeleton Key, you’ll have the freedom to explore and play the game on your own terms, without worrying about being locked out of certain areas.
Return the Skeleton Key
On the other hand, returning the Skeleton Key can have its own set of benefits:
- Completing the Thieves Guild questline: Returning the Skeleton Key allows you to complete the Thieves Guild questline and become the Guildmaster, granting you access to new skills and abilities.
- Maintaining the Thieves Guild’s integrity: By returning the Skeleton Key, you’ll be upholding the integrity of the Thieves Guild and its reputation.
- Potential benefits for the community: Depending on your character’s alignment, returning the Skeleton Key could have positive effects on the community, such as reducing crime rates or improving relations between factions.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the decision to keep or return the Skeleton Key depends on your playstyle and character goals. If you value the freedom to explore and play on your own terms, keeping the Skeleton Key might be the best option for you. However, if you’re committed to completing the Thieves Guild questline and upholding the Guild’s integrity, returning the Skeleton Key could be the better choice.
Comparison Table
Here’s a comparison table to help you decide:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Keep the Skeleton Key | Unbreakable lockpicking, access to exclusive content, increased freedom | Disrupts the Thieves Guild’s integrity, potential negative consequences for the community |
| Return the Skeleton Key | Completes the Thieves Guild questline, maintains the Guild’s integrity, potential positive consequences for the community | Lockpicking abilities are limited, access to exclusive content is lost |
Conclusion
The decision to keep or return the Skeleton Key is a complex one, with both options having their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what’s most important for your character and playstyle. Whether you choose to keep the Skeleton Key or return it, you’ll be making a decision that will impact your experience in Skyrim.