Preparations

We rode out at dawn, heading east towards the crossroads. The previous night, once Serana was asleep, I was awake for most of the rest of it, thinking about what I could do to help. In the back of my mind, ever since the meeting at High Hrothgar, was the fact that I knew that this would one day come. The cease-fire was always going to be broken by one side or the other. There was never going to be a formal peace agreement while Skyrim was effectively split in two.

We stopped at the bridge, the river raging underneath as water flowed from the waterfall to our right. "We could destroy the bridge," Lydia suggested.

"No, because we'll just have to rebuild it later. But we'll need it barricaded."

"You don't think they'll try and ford the river?"

"Men may try and many will drown attempting, but there's no way a horse will get across. We'll hold them here for as long as possible." I gestured towards the nearby mountain range. "We're going to need observers to let us know when the army is getting close and a system of communication to ensure we know."

"War horns, Dragonborn," Caius suggested.

"That'll have to do. Once they sound the alarm, tell the men to retreat as quickly as possible."

"How far ahead should we send them?"

"No further than Valtheim Towers. That will give us enough warning. We won't hold them at the bridge forever but it will give us enough time to ensure the city is ready."

"Can we ever be ready?" Lydia wondered.

"We'll have to be as we'll have no choice. Commander, get some men up here once we've completed our reconnaissance. I'll review the defences once they're completed."

"Of course, Dragonborn."

We rode north and I already knew how exposed the city was. The only advantage was that there was no possible way for the Stormcloaks to invade the city if they came in from the north. The walls were simply too high, Dragonsreach itself perched on top of the hill. I thought that would be the perfect place to command the defence of the city, though I wanted to be in the thick of the action. I'd have to decide when the attack finally came.

We stopped at Whitewatch Tower and realised the futility of trying to stop an army coming from the north. I knew my colleagues thought the same thing.

"What do you suggest, Dragonborn?" Irileth asked.

"Honestly…. All we can do is slow them down if they're marching."

"Scorched earth?"

"We definitely leave them nothing to eat. But we're not going to burn people's homes. I intend on sending the Stormcloaks back the same way."

"They'll probably do it in revenge," Lydia stated sadly.

"We can rebuild as long as we're victorious." I surveyed the area. "How do you think they'll actually come though, road or over land?"

"Men march better along roads, Dragonborn. They won't want to risk their horses over the plains either. If they're bringing siege equipment, then they'll definitely stick to the roads."

"Then all we can do is slow them down. Commander, do you have men in the guard with military experience?"

"Plenty. Most of them are itching to fight."

I pointed. "See the wooded area ahead? I want small bands of men, not more than a trio in each team."

"And you're idea?"

"Slow down the marching men. Pick them off. And delay if not destroy the siege equipment."

"A dangerous assignment. One that could lead to their deaths."

"I know," I stated, nodding in understanding, "I would do it myself but…"

"Say no more, Dragonborn. We know what you can do. The men are eager to face the enemy and will go to their deaths knowing they will see Sovngarde." I looked across my companions. "Anyone else have any suggestions?"

"Where do you intend to set the shield wall?" Irileth wondered.

"On the path leading to the gates. It is narrow enough where our lack of numbers hopefully won't matter."

"You've certainly thought this through," Caius stated.

"I knew this day would come eventually. I've had a lot of time to think."

We rode west around the northern edge of the city but we agreed there was little chance of the Stormcloaks sending many men this way. The land wasn't conducive to an army marching across it. The only reason they would is if they wanted to ring the city though anything to the north or west would simply to be for show. The main thrust could only come from the south, which meant the army or armies on their way would have to ring our home first.

Within an hour of walking through the gates, men were being sent out to prepare defences. I met with the Jarl and made my report. We both knew the reality of the situation. We would be facing an army far larger than anything we had at our disposal. The army would have siege equipment. It was a case of whether Ulfric would have the patience to wait us out or whether he would attack quickly. The Jarl then mentioned one last card he could play.

"I could always ask the Legion for assistance. But as soon as I do that, Ulfric will have absolute reason to attack. In his mind, and those of his supporters anyway. At the moment, we still have the high and moral grounds for resistance."

"I have one ace up my sleeve, sir."

"What is that?"

"Dragons."

"They will help you?"

"I think so. There are certainly one or two who I think may help. But I don't want to call on their help just yet. We can do this, sir. The men are eager to fight and protect their homes. We have the Companions, all of them battle hardened. I have also sent a message to the College of Winterhold."

Despite the seriousness of the situation, the Jarl laughed. "I've heard, Ragnar. Something about being Arch-Mage?"

"Simply ceremonial, sir. Whatever the case, I am waiting to hear back from them. They are meant to be an apolitical, neutral group but I do wonder if they will assist."

"Being where they are, they will find themselves far behind enemy lines."

I know I returned a devious smile. "Oh, it may have been suggested that the College could in no way actually assist. But, if mages felt so inclined to assist the Dragonborn and people of Whiterun, who am I to refuse?"

The Jarl laughed again. "I didn't know you had it in you, Ragnar."

I shrugged. "Whether they'll get here in time or not, who knows? But we need all the numbers we can get."

"What about your Dawnguard friends?"

"Messaged them too. Again, same problem. They're near Riften. Stormcloak territory. I said they'll have to travel incognito and we'd provide mercenary uniforms."

"Any other allies out there?"

"I have friends in quite a few places but unfortunately I don't have an army hiding somewhere."

"We've rounded up all the Stormcloak sympathisers," he stated, changing tack.

"Including all the Gray-Manes?"

"Not all of them. Fralia remains at home though under house arrest. Eorlund remains free as he works for the Companions. He assures me, and I believe him, that he is neutral. In fact, he says he would support the Harbinger if push came to shove."

"And your plans for them all?"

"I just wanted them out of the way and not causing trouble. I won't detain them any longer than necessary. I think they've come round. They won't support the Empire but the fact Ulfric wants to attack their very home…"

"And Heimskr?"

The Jarl sighed. "We had to. You and I are both Talos worshippers, as is nearly every true Nord. But I couldn't have him out there speaking up for Ulfric when he's on the verge of attacking this city. Once it is over, I'll release him immediately."

"I think you should let those who defy the ban of Talos worship visit him before the battle."

The Jarl appeared thoughtful then nodded. "Very well. Agreed. Though he won't be too happy about it."

"I'll go and talk to him. He likes me."

"You can go see him now if you wish."

It sounded like a good idea so I took the Jarl up on his offer. I'd never seen the prison below Whiterun. Compared to other prisons I may have once experienced, while I would never state a prison was comfortable, the one below Dragonsreach was at least in good repair and wasn't freezing cold. I was pointed in the direction of Heimskr's cell and was surprised to see he had been given a bed to sleep on and his shrine had been moved with him. He approached the bars when he noticed me.

"Dragonborn, it is good to see you," he stated, holding his hands through the gaps. I grasped them.

"Are you well?"

"As well as can be expected. The guards have all been very nice. Most have been apologetic."

"I'm sorry, too."

He shrugged. "It is to be expected, Dragonborn. I've made no secrecy of my support for Jarl Ulfric and the Stormcloaks. I can only assume that is why some Gray-Mane's occupy other cells?" I nodded. "So it's true, war is coming?"

"It is."

"How long do we have?"

"I think Ulfric has been planning to attack since the day he signed the cease-fire. I anticipate their arrival shortly."

"You will have my prayers, Dragonborn." I raised my eyebrows at that. He chuckled at my reaction. "You will be protecting your home and mine. Nord will be fighting Nord. Many will make the journey to Sovngarde once all is done. I will pray for both sides but, mostly, I will pray for Whiterun."

"The Jarl said once the battle is over, you will be released immediately."

He nodded again. "I understand. And if Ulfric is defeated, then it is simply the Gods informing me that I must champion someone else." He met my eyes and I understood what he meant. "It is clear the Gods favour you, Dragonborn. But I cannot tell you your destiny regarding the coming war."

"Thank you, Heimskr."

"Talos guide you, Dragonborn."

I returned home to a warm meal and a tankard of ale, Serana not inundating me with questions immediately, allowing me at least a few moments to sit back and relax. Once my plate was cleared and my tankard empty, she asked me how my day was. I explained the situation as I saw it and wasn't surprised that she wasn't concerned at all. I know a husband and wife is meant to trust one another but I'd add near if not complete unshakable belief to that one too.

"How long do you think we have?" she asked later that night in bed, her arm wrapped across my chest, tracing another scar, her warm feet against my shins. Though both of us were feeling rather warm due to… activities. 'Long may this continue. I'll certainly never tire of her!'

"I would say his armies will be at our gates within a week."

"That quickly?"

"I think he had everything in place when he sent the ultimatum. Quite frankly, I think anyone else sent by Jarl Balgruuf would have found themselves arrested and thrown in one of his dungeons."

"So why didn't he do that to you?"

"I think he wants to face me in battle and prove his worth as High King. What more could add to his legend than to face the Dragonborn across the field and then defeat him."

She seemed to consider that point before she used a couple of her fingers to move my face to look at hers. "Ragnar, I want to ask you something. Well, I wouldn't normally ask but… I know what you're like when it comes to my safety."

I couldn't help the smirk as I knew what was coming. "You want to fight?"

"I want to help. I'm not a warrior to be armed with sword and shield and in that wall you're thinking of. But I want to help protect my home."

"I'm not going to stop you, Serana. I know what you're capable of."

"But now because we're married… Well, I thought…"

"I still want you by my side. If not by my side, then I know you can kick arse all on your own. We're probably going to need some mages to assist. I see no reason why you can't get that magic of yours flowing and causing all sorts of havoc."

She squeezed me and kissed my cheek. "Thank you."

"I had no idea you cared so much."

"This is my home now too, Ragnar. You know that by now. And, like you, I'll do anything to defend it."

"As long as neither of us die."

She laughed. "I usually have to warn you not to do that."

"Well, if we're both in the thick of it, let's both of us not die this time."

"Agreed."

We sealed that agreement with more… activities.

*****

The Jarl and I stood on the balcony of Dragonsreach, gazing into the distance. No words were spoken between us. None were needed. It was clear to all what we were watching. At the crossroads, the barricades had been formed and men were on patrol. Further barricades had been placed along the river, curling around the road from the north, knowing a second army would be coming from that direction. The men were under clear instructions. Delay as long as possible but it was not necessary to lay down their lives.

Or, at least, not yet.

To the north, small bands of men waited in the forest. No signal was required. They had been told what to do. We knew that many of them would likely not return. Therefore, when I stood in front of the ranks and asked for only volunteers for such a mission, I had a lump in my throat when every single one stepped forward. Choosing each small team was one of the most difficult choices I'd ever made in my life. I shook the hand of each man as they departed through the city gates, letting them know that Talos guided them and that the Dragonborn would fight in their name.

Defences had been laid. The walls were reinforced. We had a civilian militia, nearly everyone in Whiterun prepared to pick up a weapon and fight. We had soldiers, and I mean real soldiers. Those who did or had once served, ready to fight and perhaps die for their home. We had trained in building and maintaining a shield wall at a relentless pace. I knew it would be one of the few things that could hold the Stormcloaks at bay.

We had mages. The College could not officially join in the defence of Whiterun. But many of the mages I knew well from the College had journeyed down and were now working together in small teams in support of the warriors. I would never be able to think them enough for their help.

And it wasn't only the College who had answered my call. The Dawnguard were represented. Isran had led nearly all his men towards Whiterun, dressed as mercenaries. I shook his hand on arrival in thanks. He wouldn't hear of it, stating the Dragonborn had ended the vampire menace, that the Dawnguard stood alongside the Dragonborn and that the Dawnguard protects the home of anyone who fights for it.

So now the Jarl and I simply waited for the inevitable.

"We've had reports from scouts, sir. The armies are on the move."

"How long do we have?"

"Jarl Ulfric isn't stupid. He's sent forward scouts so he won't be surprised by the fact we've anticipated his arrival. The cavalry and bulk of the army travel together. The siege and heavy weaponry move slower, though I understand are being pulled by numerous oxen. They can be right bastards to kill."

"Have we pulled everyone into the city?"

I nodded. "The Stormcloak army won't be fed by Whiterun Hold, that is certain."

"And the people?"

"Anyone between us and the army has retreated. Even some folk from Riverwood have come here for safety. I wouldn't be surprised if Ulfric did send a small force there."

"Do we have time to evacuate and get the guard back here?"

"We can do that first thing tomorrow morning. The Stormcloaks won't be here for at least another day at least."

"Send the word in the morning. I want my people safe."

"What do you expect when he gets there? I don't know much about Nord customs when it comes to sieges."

"Ulfric will give us one opportunity to surrender. If we do, we won't be put to the sword. Sure, he may want to make an example of some people but, if the city is handed to him without bloodshed, he can claim a victory due to his diplomacy and throw that in the face of the Empire."

"I take it you'd be part of that example?"

The Jarl just shrugged. "It's possible I'd lose my head or find my neck snapped by a bit of rope."

"All the more reason to fight, sir."

He was silent for a few minutes as we gazed across Whiterun again. "You've been a good friend, Ragnar. To the city and its people but also to me personally. I couldn't ask for anything more."

"Your thanks are not necessary, sir. This is my home."

"Ragnar, please, call me Balgruuf. That is my name. After everything that has happened, what you have done, what is to come, and who you are, you are my equal in every way."

I smirked. "If you say so, sir."

He just laughed and clapped me on the shoulder. "Kodlak told me about that. 'Sir' this and 'sir' that." He fell into silence again. "I still miss him," he added quietly.

"So do I."

We fell into silence, each alone with our thoughts. There was nothing else to say. I knew we had a day or two at most until the enemy was at our gates. If we had any more than that, I'd consider ourselves lucky. I was ready to leave the Jarl on the balcony, explaining I wouldn't be gone for long, only going to check our defences and talk with the men around Whiterun. I knew I would eventually be called upon so if I could talk to the men beforehand, and perhaps put their mind at ease, then that would be worthwhile.

"Ragnar, before you go, I have something for you," Balgruuf stated, stopping me in my tracks.

"What is it, sir?" I asked, looking back over Whiterun Hold as the sun continued to set.

He turned towards one of the guards. "Fetch Eorlund from the Skyforge with the articles I've requested. And grab the others too. You know who I mean?"

"I do. At once, my Jarl," the guard stated.

We sat and waited on the balcony. Any question I had was greeted with a raised hand and a slight smirk. I had an idea of what may be about to happen so figured I'd just go with the flow. Serana was the first to arrive, closely followed by all the Companions, Circle and non-Circle alike, plus my Housecarl. Eorlund the last to arrive, carrying what I thought was armour and weapons. The one thing I didn't miss was the shield it was all carried upon.

The Jarl clapped his hands in delight. "Excellent, Eorlund. You've brought it."

"Of course, my Jarl."

"And it is all as I requested?"

"It is, my Jarl. I'd go so far as to call this my best work."

Eorlund then walked towards me, holding out the shield. "Harbinger… Dragonborn… This armour and these weapons… These are for you in regards to what you are about to face in defence of this city." I had noticed it already but now it was for Eorlund to explain exactly what it was. "It is a fusion of the finest steel and… Well, dragon bone. Stronger than anything I have built before." He continued to gesture. "I have also made a sword and shield with the same elements involved."

I couldn't help raise my eyebrows at the detail. "Is all that possible?" I asked.

"Yes. The Dragonborn may take the soul of each defeated dragon but the scales and bones may remain after certain events occur. Many scavengers have taken the bones of the dragons you have killed, selling bits of the bone as trinkets. Regarding the armour and weapons, as I said, I have designed it is a fusion of dragon bone and steel, stronger than any armour you have come across. I can't say anymore, Harbinger. Just know it has been designed for you. Light but strong."

I turned to my wife. "Can you help me put it on?"

She appeared rather overcome by everything and simply nodded. "Of course," she said quietly.

The Jarl gestured towards a nearby alcove so I'd have at least a modicum of privacy, or at least be able to protect my modesty to a degree. I quickly shrugged off my clothes and Serana helped me assembled myself into my new armour. I'm glad to report that it still felt incredibly light, the metal shining in the low light of nearby torches. I was happy to see a long cloak flowing down the rear of the armour. I guess something that suggested my new rank within Whiterun itself.

All in all, it was a tremendous gift and I thanked the Jarl again once I greeted everyone on the balcony. They all, including the Jarl, simply crossed an arm over their chest and bowed. 'Yep, definitely some sort of new rank.'

"What now, my Jarl?" I asked.

He smirked. "I think the walls may need some more of your attention, don't you think, Dragonborn?"

I wandered out of the door of the balcony, chuckling away, joined by the Companions, my Housecarl and my wife. I spent the rest of the night at the walls as we continued our preparations and, for that night at least, all was calm.

Two mornings later and there was a loud knock at the door. I was already up and dressed, sat by the fire having already eaten breakfast, ready to go at a moment's notice. I opened the door to see Irileth standing there. She didn't have to say anything, I simply looked back at my wife and said 'They're here.' Serana simply rose from her chair, kissed me and told me she would be ready to fight.

I followed Irileth up towards Dragonsreach and the balcony. To the north, we could see the first troops appear through the forest. We couldn't quite hear the thousands of feet marching but it was an intimidating sight. To the west, the second army was approaching the river and fighting was already breaking out.

"Your orders?" Irileth asked.

"Let the men fight for the moment. But they are to delay them only. As long as we slow them down and perhaps kill a few of them. But as soon as they look like breaching, pull them all back. We'll need them later."

"We've had reports from the scouting parties to the north. They're delaying as best as they can but the numbers are overwhelming."

I nodded. "They know what to do."

"And what do we do?"

"Get men on the walls. Get those who can't fight into safety. All we can do is wait and watch. I have no doubt Ulfric will attempt one last negotiation before he launches his assault."

"You believe that?" Balgruuf asked.

"Yes. He won't want to destroy Whiterun. He dreams of being a conquering hero but won't want to kill a city of Nords to do it."

The men held the river for at least a couple of hours before a horn was blown and they quickly retreated. To the north, the army continued to approach, marching in perfect columns though it was obvious they had taken some hits. The men staggered their retreat, slowing the enemy down and causing some damage. But it wasn't long until the two armies joined together and cautiously followed the road alongside the city. They knew we were outnumbered. Unsurprisingly, I didn't see many mages. The siege weaponry on display was intimidating. But there was little that any of us could do except stand and watch as the men formed up.

A trio of men rode soon towards the road leading towards the gates, carrying a white flag held on a pole. I recognised two of the men, assuming the third was simply in command of his army. Balgruuf and I mounted the horses we had brought into the city for safety, the guards lifting the heavy wooden log that kept the gates in place, hearing it crash back into place behind us. We rode side by side in silence and met them halfway down the path leading towards the main road along which the army was now waiting. No-one else would have heard the conversation that would take place.

"Jarl Balgruuf," Ulfric stated before looking at me, "Dragonborn."

"What brings you to my gates, Jarl Ulfric?" Balgruuf asked.

"You know exactly why. This is your last opportunity to swear your fealty to me and to our cause. You have proven to an Imperial sympathiser. I cannot have one of the most vital cities in Skyrim liaising with and in the hands of the enemy."

"I have told you exactly what you need to know, Jarl Ulfric. Do you call me a liar?"

"You're a traitor to your own people," Galmar stated.

Ulfric raised a hand. "Hush, Galmar. We are here in peace." I scoffed rather loudly, drawing the eyes of all three men. "You disagree, Dragonborn?"

I gestured across the rows of men and the siege weapons in place. "I would hardly call what I can see a peaceful intention, Jarl Ulfric."

"I approach you with an open palm with one hand but a fist in the other. It is up to you which option you choose."

I looked at Balgruuf and he nodded, having already agreed what was to be said. I turned back to Ulfric and his two men. "Jarl Ulfric, I will give the benefit of one final warning. Turn your men around and march them back into your own territory. Your intransigence on this occasion will be forgiven. Be warned, though. Should you choose not to turn around, your men will find only death on the walls of Whiterun."

Ulfric simply smirked. "You sound confident for a man whose city is surrounded." He looked at Balgruuf. "I take it you agree with his intentions?"

"Thane Ragnar Dragonborn speaks for Whiterun. And for me. Whiterun is and continues to be neutral, Jarl Ulfric. An attack on this city will do nothing but provoke outrage across Skyrim and the Empire you hate so much."

Ulfric shook his head, clearly in disagreement. "Taking your city will simply prove the strength of our cause and deny the Empire its hold over more of my people."

"Your people?" I wondered, "Since when are the people of Whiterun 'your people'?"

"I fight for all true sons and daughters of Skyrim, Dragonborn. Something you appear to have forgotten."

"Enough talk," Balgruuf stated, "Ulfric, your demands are odious in the extreme and your claims to my city are denied. My loyalty is to my city, to Skyrim and to its people, but not to you. So unless you do as the Dragonborn requests and turn your armies around, then we will face your men in battle."

Ulfric smiled. "Very well," he stated before turning his horse around. Galmar grinned, trying to appear menacing. I tried very hard not to laugh at his appearance. The third man, who had not spoken, simply dipped his head before following the other two.

"That went about as expected," Balgruuf stated once we turned around, "So, what do we do?"

"Prepare for war."