What happens if you free the Stormcloak soldier?

What Happens If You Free the Stormcloak Soldier?

In the world of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, players are often presented with difficult choices that impact the game’s storyline. One such choice is freeing the Stormcloak soldier who is being taken away by Imperial guards. But what are the consequences of such an action? In this article, we will delve into the world of Skyrim to explore what happens when you free the Stormcloak soldier.

Direct Answer to the Question

The most straightforward answer to the question is that freeing the Stormcloak soldier avoids the bounty while still making them hostile, allowing you to kill them without negative consequence.

Consequences of Freeding the Stormcloak Soldier

Join the Rebel Cause

By freeing the Stormcloak soldier, you are essentially joining their cause and becoming a part of the rebellion against the Imperial Empire. This choice sets you on a path to fight against the Empire’s occupation of Skyrim, aligning you with the Stormcloaks and their fight for independence.

Create a Hostile Target

When you free the Stormcloak soldier, they will no longer be a neutral party. Instead, they become a hostile target for Imperial forces, which can create opportunities for you to complete quests and engage in battles.

Bounty Consequences

Original Bounty

Initially, there will be no bounty for you, as the Imperial Empire will not be able to track your actions in releasing the Stormcloak soldier. However, as the rebels fight to create chaos, Imperial forces will likely respond, and a bounty might be placed on your head as a result.

Changing the Game’s Outcome

By freeing the Stormcloak soldier, you will fundamentally alter the course of the game’s storyline. The Empire will shift their focus from suppressing the Stormcloak rebellion to defeating the Dragonborn (you). This change has far-reaching consequences, altering key events and encounters in the game.

Follower and Marriage Opportunities

Freed Stormcloak soldiers can become followers and companions in your journey, bringing valuable skills and abilities to the battlefield. Additionally, freeing a Stormcloak soldier also opens up marriage options to Elgrim Harrod and Karliah, both influential members of the Stormcloak resistance.

Comparison of Different Outcomes

Releasing vs. Imprisoning

The fate of the Stormcloak soldier is not the only determining factor in the outcome. Imprisoning the soldier results in increased Imperial presence in the Skyrim region, leading to harsher penalties and repercussions.

Comparison of Story Outcomes

Here’s a comparison of the consequences:

Option Consequences Bounty
Release the Stormcloak Soldier Creates a hostile target for Imperials, changes game outcome No initial bounty, potential bounty later
Imprison the Stormcloak Soldier Increased Imperial presence, harsher penalties No bounty initially

Conclusion

Freed Stormcloak soldiers offer players a unique opportunity to explore the world of Skyrim through their rebel-filled experiences. While the consequences of such a choice are significant, the outcome of releasing or imprisoning the Stormcloak soldier ultimately lies with you. Remember to choose wisely, as these actions will have far-reaching consequences in the world of Tamriel.

Related Article:

  • Who Can You Marry in Skyrim?
  • Can You Befriend the Thalmor in Skyrim?
Your friends have asked us these questions - Check out the answers!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top