Serana, the enchanting companion you rescue from a tomb in Skyrim, is a vampire. Many players find themselves wondering: how can I cure Serana of vampirism? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, explaining the requirements, challenges, and rewards of curing this powerful and captivating follower.
Understanding Serana's Vampiric Condition
Before diving into the cure, it's crucial to understand Serana's vampirism. Unlike other vampires you might encounter, Serana is a unique character with a specific storyline. Curing her isn't a simple matter of finding a potion or spell. It requires completing a specific questline and making some significant choices.
Why Cure Serana?
Many players choose to cure Serana for several reasons:
- Roleplaying: You might want a more "normal" companion who isn't burdened by the weaknesses and restrictions of vampirism.
- Gameplay: Some players find Serana's vampiric abilities less useful than other combat styles.
- Storyline: Completing this aspect of her story arc provides a sense of closure and adds depth to your relationship with her.
Why Not Cure Serana?
Conversely, some players prefer to keep Serana as a vampire:
- Unique Abilities: Her vampiric powers make her a formidable combat companion.
- Lore: Her vampiric heritage is a significant part of her character and backstory.
The Quest for a Cure: "Touching the Sky"
The quest to cure Serana is inextricably linked to the main storyline involving her family and the ancient vampire lord Harkon. You'll need to progress through the Dawnguard questline to unlock the opportunity to cure her. This involves several steps, including:
- Joining the Dawnguard: This is the first crucial step. You'll need to choose a side in the conflict between the Dawnguard and the vampires.
- Completing the Dawnguard Main Questline: The cure is not available until you've progressed significantly through the main Dawnguard storyline. This includes many battles and difficult decisions.
- Reaching a Specific Point in the Story: You won't be given the option to cure Serana until a particular point in the questline. This usually occurs after facing significant challenges.
Finding the Cure: Ancient Artifacts & Powerful Choices
The cure involves locating a specific artifact, and it's strongly tied to the events of the Dawnguard main questline. Once you've reached the necessary point in the quest, you'll be given a choice: cure Serana or allow her to remain a vampire. This is a pivotal moment in the story, so consider carefully the implications before making your decision. There's no turning back after you choose.
The Aftermath: Life After a Cure
Once you choose to cure Serana, she'll undergo a transformation. This change affects her appearance and some of her abilities. She’ll lose some of her vampiric powers, but she'll gain access to some alternative benefits.
Consider the following:
- Gameplay Impact: Her combat style will change, possibly altering your approach to battles.
- Dialogue Changes: Some of her dialogue might change as she adjusts to her new life.
- Relationship Dynamics: The impact on your relationship might subtly shift.
Conclusion: A Choice With Lasting Effects
Curing Serana of vampirism is a significant decision in Skyrim's Dawnguard expansion. It involves careful planning, progression through the main questline, and a tough choice with lasting repercussions. By understanding the requirements, benefits, and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision that complements your gameplay experience and enhances your enjoyment of this complex and fascinating character. Remember, there's no right or wrong choice—only the path you choose for your journey with Serana.
