Can you believe that before Skyrim dropped last year, not a one of us knew what a housecarl was? And now we can barely go a day without using the word. In Bethesda's epic, Jarl Balgruuf the Greater assigns her to your servitude after you're given the Thane title. The first housecarl you recieve, Lydia is sworn to protect you and carry your burdens (like a pack mule) until death. Unfortunately, she's pretty easy to kill, so don't push your luck. She is a competent fighter and bowperson, though, so she can be helpful in your adventures.
