Marrying Aela the Huntress: A Skyrim Romance Guide
Are you a Dragonborn with a heart of gold (and perhaps a few silver rings)? Do you find yourself drawn to the fierce loyalty and unwavering spirit of Aela the Huntress, a prominent member of the legendary Companions? If so, you're in luck! Marrying Aela is a popular aspiration for many Skyrim players, and with a little know-how, it's entirely achievable. This guide will walk you through every step, from earning her respect to celebrating your union in the cold, unforgiving lands of Skyrim.
Who is Aela the Huntress?
Aela the Huntress, also known as Aela the Shield-Sister, is a Nord warrior and a werewolf, renowned for her combat prowess and her dedication to the Companions, Skyrim's oldest and most respected warrior guild. She's a formidable ally, a skilled archer, and a proud member of the Circle, the inner circle of werewolves within the Companions. Her tough exterior hides a deep sense of honor and loyalty, making her a desirable partner for many a Dragonborn.
How to Begin Romancing Aela
Before you can even think about marriage, you need to earn Aela's respect and affection. This isn't a simple matter of giving her a gift; you need to prove yourself worthy of her time and attention. The primary way to do this is by progressing through the Companions' questline.
The Companions Questline is Key:
- You must join the Companions early in your Skyrim adventure. Head to Jorrvaskr in Whiterun and speak with Kodlak Whitemane or one of the other members to begin.
- Complete a series of quests for the Companions. These quests will involve helping out various members, engaging in combat, and demonstrating your bravery and fighting skills.
- As you progress, you'll spend more time with Aela. She's often involved in the quests and will offer her insights and support. Pay attention to her dialogue; her opinions on your actions will reveal her growing regard for you.
- Crucially, you must complete the entire Companions questline. This culminates in a significant event where your bond with the Companions, and specifically with Aela, will be tested and solidified.
Unlocking the Marriage Option
Once you've successfully completed the Companions questline, a crucial step in romancing Aela becomes available. This involves a specific action that demonstrates your deep connection and desire for a lasting partnership.
The "Dragonborn's Favor" Moment:
Following the completion of the main Companions questline, you will have a unique opportunity involving the Rite of Sobriety and the cure for lycanthropy. If you choose to remain a werewolf (or be cured and then become one again, though staying a werewolf is often more direct for this option), Aela will approach you. She will recognize your shared nature and express a desire for a deeper connection. This is the moment when the option to marry her will become available.
The Amulet of Mara: The Universal Matchmaker
Just like with any other potential spouse in Skyrim, you'll need to have the Amulet of Mara in your possession. If you don't already have one, here's where you can find it:
- The Temple of Mara in Riften: This is the most reliable place. Speak to Maramal, the High Priest of Mara. You can either purchase the Amulet of Mara from him directly (if you've already spoken to him about marriage) or complete the "The Book of Love" quest for Dinya Balu, which will lead you to Maramal and make the Amulet available for purchase.
- Random Loot: Occasionally, you might find an Amulet of Mara as loot from slain enemies or in chests, but relying on the Temple of Mara is far more efficient.
Proposing to Aela
Once you have the Amulet of Mara equipped and have completed the Companions questline (and triggered Aela's special dialogue), you are ready to propose.
The Proposal Dialogue:
- Approach Aela. Ensure you are wearing the Amulet of Mara.
- Initiate a conversation with her.
- You should now see a dialogue option that says something along the lines of, "I've been looking for someone like you. Perhaps we could get married?" or "I'm interested in you. Perhaps we could marry?"
- Select this option. If you've met all the requirements, Aela will accept your proposal.
The Wedding Ceremony
After a successful proposal, the game will fast-forward to the wedding ceremony. This is a relatively quick event where you and your chosen spouse will be married in the Temple of Mara in Riften, with Maramal officiating.
What to Expect:
- You will automatically be transported to the Temple of Mara.
- The ceremony is brief but has a certain charm.
- After the ceremony, you can speak to Aela. She will become your spouse, and you will have the option to have her live with you in one of your homes.
Life After Marriage with Aela
Marriage in Skyrim is more than just a ceremony; it offers tangible benefits.
Benefits of Marrying Aela:
- Companion and Ally: Aela will become a loyal follower, ready to accompany you on your adventures. She's a formidable combatant, especially with her archery skills and her lycanthropy.
- Home Life: You can ask her to move into one of your player homes, which can make your settlements feel more alive.
- "Lover's Comfort" Perk: When you sleep in the same bed as your spouse, you'll receive the "Lover's Comfort" buff. This grants you a 15% boost to your experience gain for the next 8 hours.
- Daily Dialogue: She'll offer unique dialogue options, often related to your adventures or her life as a huntress.
- Potential for Children (if Hearthfire DLC is installed): If you have the Hearthfire DLC, you can adopt children and have a family with Aela.
Can I Marry Aela Without Joining the Companions?
No, you cannot marry Aela without joining and completing the main questline of the Companions. Her romance is intrinsically linked to your participation and acceptance within her guild.
What if Aela Dies? Can I Still Marry Her?
If Aela dies before you have the chance to marry her, you will not be able to marry her. Marriage in Skyrim is a one-time event for each character, and it requires both parties to be alive and able to interact.
Do I Need to Be a Werewolf to Marry Aela?
While being a werewolf is a significant part of Aela's identity and plays a role in her willingness to marry you after the Companions questline, you don't strictly need to be one yourself. However, your shared nature as a werewolf can strengthen your bond and is often the trigger for her expressing romantic interest. If you've been cured, it's possible to become a werewolf again, which can be a factor in her dialogue.
What Happens if I Choose to Cure Myself of Lycanthropy?
If you choose to cure yourself of lycanthropy during the Companions questline, it may affect Aela's willingness to marry you, as your shared "beast blood" is a strong connecting factor for her. It's generally recommended to either remain a werewolf or be able to become one again to ensure the marriage option is available and she expresses romantic interest.
In conclusion, marrying Aela the Huntress is a rewarding experience for any Dragonborn who admires her strength, loyalty, and fierce spirit. By dedicating yourself to the Companions and proving your worth, you can win the heart of this legendary Nord warrior and build a life together in the vast world of Skyrim.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marrying Aela
How do I start the Companions questline to meet Aela?
To start the Companions questline, travel to Whiterun and locate Jorrvaskr, the mead hall. Speak to Kodlak Whitemane or any of the members present to express your interest in joining the guild. This will initiate the first quest.
Why is completing the Companions questline so important for marrying Aela?
Aela is a devoted member of the Companions, and her respect and affection are earned through your actions within the guild. Completing their questline allows you to build a strong bond with her, and the culmination of these quests often unlocks her romantic interest and the option to propose.
Where can I find the Amulet of Mara to propose to Aela?
The most reliable place to get the Amulet of Mara is from Maramal in the Temple of Mara in Riften. You can purchase it from him after speaking to him about marriage or by completing the "The Book of Love" quest for Dinya Balu.
Can I marry Aela if I'm not a werewolf?
While you don't absolutely have to be a werewolf yourself, Aela's romantic interest is significantly influenced by her own lycanthropy and the shared "beast blood." Completing the Companions questline and potentially choosing to remain a werewolf or being able to become one again will increase your chances of her accepting a proposal.
