To unlock the Thieves Guild in Skyrim, you need to first travel to Riften and speak with Brynjolf at the marketplace during the day. Complete his tasks to prove your skills, and then follow the questline he offers to officially join the Thieves Guild and unlock its benefits in the game.
Locating the Thieves Guild
To unlock the Thieves Guild in Skyrim, you must first travel to the city of Riften. Riften is located in the southeastern part of Skyrim, and it serves as the headquarters for the Thieves Guild. Upon entering Riften, you will notice a marketplace near the center of the city. This marketplace is called the Riften Bazaarr, and it is where you will first encounter Brynjolf, a key character in the initiation process of the Thieves Guild.
Starting the Quest
As you explore the marketplace, you will eventually come across Brynjolf trying to persuade bystanders to participate in a scheme. When you approach him, he will challenge you to prove your skill by pickpocketing a ring and planting it on another unsuspecting individual. Once you have completed this task, Brynjolf will reveal that the Thieves Guild is in operation in the city, and he will direct you to the Ragged Flagon, the secret entrance to the Guild.
Gaining Entry to the Thieves Guild
To gain entry to the Thieves Guild, Brynjolf will ask you to follow him to the Ragged Flagon. This hidden entrance is located beneath the city, accessed through the Ratway. The Ratway is a network of sewers and tunnels that run underneath Riften. You will need to navigate through the Ratway, overcoming obstacles such as traps and enemies, to reach the Ragged Flagon.
Completing Tasks for the Thieves Guild
Once you have gained entry to the Thieves Guild, you will be given various tasks and quests to complete in order to prove your worth to the guild. These tasks may include pickpocketing, burglary, and other nefarious activities. By successfully completing these tasks, you will earn the trust and respect of the guild members, ultimately leading to your official induction into the Thieves Guild.
Becoming a Full-Fledged Member
After completing several tasks and demonstrating your skills as a thief, you will be approached by Mercer Frey, the leader of the Thieves Guild. Mercer will formally induct you into the guild and provide you with a new set of armor known as the Thieves Guild Armor. You will also gain access to the Thieves Guild headquarters, the Ragged Flagon Cistern, where you can interact with other members and receive additional quests and rewards.
Benefits of Joining the Thieves Guild
Joining the Thieves Guild in Skyrim comes with several benefits. As a member of the guild, you will have access to training in sneaking, lockpicking, and pickpocketing skills. You will also be able to fence stolen goods with Tonilia, the guild's fence, and receive special jobs and quests that offer valuable rewards. Additionally, you will gain a sense of camaraderie with the other members of the guild and have the opportunity to further explore the world of thievery in Skyrim.