The Companions — The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Walkthrough

The Companions: Warriors of Skyrim

The Companions are Skyrim's most renowned warrior guild, based in the Jorrvaskr mead hall in Whiterun. Joining the Companions offers a path for those who wish to hone their combat skills, engage in honorable deeds, and perhaps uncover a darker, more primal secret. Their questline is focused on martial prowess, camaraderie, and the ancient traditions of Skyrim's warriors.

To join the Companions, you simply need to travel to Whiterun and speak with Kodlak Whitemane or any of the other members present in Jorrvaskr. The initial quest to join is Take Up Arms, where you'll be tasked with proving your worth in combat. This often involves a simple sparring match or a minor task to demonstrate your fighting ability.

Following your initiation, you'll embark on a series of quests that test your combat skills and loyalty. Hired Muscle might involve intimidating or fighting a target, while Proving Honor sends you into a Draugr-infested tomb to retrieve a shield. These early quests are desed to familiarize you with the Companions' style of work and the types of challenges they undertake.

As you progress, the questline delves deeper into the nature of the Companions. You'll learn about their ancient pact with the Daedric Prince of Werewolves, Hircine, and the curse that afflicts some of their most esteemed members. Quests like The Silver Hand and Blood's Honor will see you confronting a splinter faction within the Companions who seek to eradicate lycanthropy, leading to a dramatic internal conflict.

The climax of the Companions questline involves confronting the Silver Hand and dealing with the consequences of lycanthropy. You'll have the opportunity to embrace or reject the beast blood, with sificant implications for your character. The final quest, Glory of the Dead, offers a resolution to the internal strife and a chance to honor the fallen members of the guild.

Throughout the Companions questline, you'll be accompanied by loyal members like Aela the Huntress, Farkas, and Vilkas. These characters are not only valuable allies in combat but also provide insight into the guild's history and traditions. Completing their quests will earn you unique rewards, including access to specialized training and powerful enchanted weapons.

Beyond the main Companion questline, there are also radiant quests available from various members. These are repeatable missions that offer ongoing opportunities for combat and rewards. They might involve exterminating beasts, retrieving stolen items, or acting as hired muscle. These radiant quests are excellent for leveling up your combat skills and earning gold.

Joining the Companions is a rewarding experience for any warrior character. It provides a strong sense of belonging and offers a unique perspective on the lore of Skyrim. Whether you seek glory in battle or a cure for a primal curse, the Companions offer a path to power and honor.