What Should I Ask Clavicus Vile for?
When approaching the Daedric Prince, Clavicus Vile, you’re met with a crucial decision: will you ask him to let Barbas live, and receive the Masque of Clavicus Vile, or will you condemn the dog to death in exchange for the Rueful Axe? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both options, helping you decide what to ask for during your encounter with Clavicus Vile.
The Masque of Clavicus Vile vs. the Rueful Axe
The Masque of Clavicus Vile is a powerful artifact with significant benefits. Increases your Speech skill by 10 points, and enhances your haggling prowess by 20%, making it easier to bargain with merchants and NPCs. Additionally, the Masque imbues you with intimidation, allowing you to command respect and avoid conflict.
On the other hand, the Rueful Axe is a unique enchanted weapon with its own perks. Deals significantly more damage than typical Daedric weapons and has a 20% chance to paralyze, rendering enemies helpless for several seconds.
Barbas: The Unpredictable Companion
Barbas is an enigmatic character whose fate is tied to yours. If you complete the quest, he’s doomed to die, his existence tied to the dark forces that created him. If you spare his life, he becomes an unpredictable companion, bound to serve you but lacking coherent speech or rational behavior. He can’t harm or be harmed, making him a curious but limited party member.
What Lies Beyond the Quest?
If you choose to complete the quest, Barbas will meet his demise at the hands of Clavicus Vile. When you encounter the Prince’s statue again, you may keep Barbas as a companion, sans his ability to communicate meaningfully. However, his presence can hinder dialogue with other NPCs and detract from the roleplay experience.
Comparison Summary
| Option | Description | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masque of Clavicus Vile | Powerful artifact with speech-boosting and haggling enhancements | Increased negotiation power, intimidation ability, and improved Speech skill | Limited combat utility, possibly hindering roleplay due to Barbas’s unnatural presence |
| Rueful Axe | Unique, strong, and enchanted weapon with paralyzing abilities | Deals significant damage, capable of stunning enemies, limited combat utility | Fatal consequence for Barbas’ existence, potentially disrupting his future interactions |
How to Make Your Choice Wisely
Before approaching the decision, consider your preferences and playstyle:
If you prioritize exploration, the Masque’s combat benefits might be outweighed by the potential impact of Barbas’s companionship on your roleplay. If you prioritize PvP or combat, the Rueful Axe’s exceptional damaging capabilities might be a safer choice.
When meeting Clavicus Vile, take a moment to weigh the consequences: will you spare Barbas, potentially altering your fate and the world’s history, or will you surrender to the darkness, acknowledging the dog’s sacrifice. Your choice will resonate deeply, shaping the outcome for yourself and the Daedric Prince.
By pondering the pros and cons of each option, we hope you’ll be armed with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision: What should you ask Clavicus Vile for? The burden of choice is yours and yours alone.