In the world of The Elder Scrolls V Skyrim, few quests are as intricate and fraught with consequences as The Forsworn Conspiracy. This quest, set in the city of Markarth, intertwines political intrigue, betrayal, and the harsh realities of Skyrim’s law enforcement. A particularly contentious aspect of this quest is the player’s interaction with the Markarth guards, especially if one chooses to resist arrest or take matters into their own hands. The decision to kill guards during this quest can significantly alter the game’s progression and the player’s experience in Markarth.
The Forsworn Conspiracy An Overview
The Forsworn Conspiracy begins when the player encounters Eltrys, a Nord who urges the Dragonborn to investigate a series of murders linked to the Forsworn, a group of rebellious Reachmen. The quest leads the player through a series of discoveries, including uncovering evidence of corruption within the Silver-Blood family and the involvement of the Markarth guards in illicit activities. As the investigation unfolds, tensions rise, culminating in a confrontation at the Shrine of Talos, where Eltrys is found dead, and the player is faced with a choice submit to arrest or resist.
Resisting Arrest The Consequences
If the player chooses to resist arrest at the Shrine of Talos, they will be confronted by several waves of Markarth guards. Successfully defeating these guards results in a bounty and a hostile reputation with the city’s law enforcement. However, this approach allows the player to loot Eltrys’s body for valuable items, including a significant amount of gold. It’s important to note that while the immediate consequence is combat, the long-term effects can be more severe.
Submitting to Arrest A Different Path
Opting to submit to arrest leads the player to the Cidhna Mine, a notorious prison beneath Markarth. Here, the player learns more about the Forsworn’s plight and gains insight into the city’s darker dealings. This path opens up the quest No One Escapes Cidhna Mine, which delves deeper into the Forsworn’s history and their connection to the Reach. While this route may seem like a surrender, it offers a unique perspective on the events unfolding in Markarth.
Impact on Markarth Guards
Regardless of the player’s choice, the Markarth guards play a pivotal role in the quest’s progression. Their actions and the player’s interactions with them can significantly influence the game’s narrative. Killing guards, for instance, can lead to increased hostility from the city’s inhabitants and a permanent bounty. Conversely, sparing them and submitting to arrest can provide the player with opportunities to gather information and allies for the challenges ahead.
Long-Term Repercussions
Engaging in combat with the guards, especially if it results in their deaths, can have lasting effects on the player’s relationship with Markarth. The city may become more hostile, with citizens reacting negatively to the Dragonborn’s presence. Additionally, certain quests and interactions may become inaccessible, altering the game’s storyline and the player’s experience in Skyrim.
Strategies for Navigating the Quest
For players seeking to navigate The Forsworn Conspiracy without resorting to violence, several strategies can be employed
- Stealth and DiplomacyUtilizing stealth to gather evidence and engaging in diplomatic conversations can provide alternative solutions to confrontations.
- Allies and FavorsBuilding relationships with key figures in Markarth can open doors and provide assistance during critical moments.
- PreparationEquipping oneself with the right gear and knowledge can make encounters less challenging and offer more options during the quest.
The Forsworn Conspiracy is a testament to Skyrim’s depth and the complexity of its moral choices. Whether one chooses to confront the Markarth guards head-on or navigate the city’s underbelly through cunning and diplomacy, the quest offers a rich tapestry of experiences. The decision to kill guards is not merely a combat choice but a narrative one, influencing the player’s journey through the Reach and beyond.