Diplomacy

"Still can't believe the Legion are the people who requested to meet."

"You thought I'd be summoned there, Ragnar?"

I shrugged. "Aye. At least to Solitude, considering it's their headquarters."

"Our victory was a statement. We are not equals with either the Legion or Stormcloaks, despite our victory over the latter, but this city proved it will not be conquered easily. Particularly when we have the Dragonborn in our ranks."

"Just one man, sir."

"You're an icon, Ragnar. Some would say a legend already and you're not even dead. The enemy have only heard myths. The fact you can call upon dragons, the Companions, the College, the Dawnguard and a whole host of other allies is why you lead my forces. And, if the Legion are smart, they'll have you doing the same thing."

"I'm not entirely sure I want to officially join the Legion, despite the fact the Stormcloaks chose to attack my home, despite warning Ulfric twice not to do so."

"Considering who you are and what you've done, I'm sure something can be worked out."

"I'll listen to what they have to say, sir." I paused and thought about the possibilities. "What do you think Tullius will offer?"

"He'll want to put his own men here."

"Would you accept that?"

The Jarl shrugged. "May as well."

"It's really that simple?" I asked, somewhat surprised.

"In the end, yes. While I don't see Ulfric attempting to attack my city again, I would like the feeling of safety the Legion would provide. We don't really know what other resources Ulfric has at his disposal. And I don't want to tempt fate a second time if he did decide on the folly of attacking us a second time."

"Very well. When do they arrive?"

"Tomorrow. I believe only the General and his second in command will be travelling here. No point disturbing the locals until negotiations are complete. Of course, I'll want your presence too, Dragonborn."

"Ragnar."

"Thane Ragnar," he stated, giving me a look that cause both of us to laugh. If I didn't know the Jarl any better, I think he considered me near enough to his equal. If he did, then it would certainly remain something that could never be said. He was the undoubted, unchallenged ruler of Whiterun. I certainly had no designs on ruling anything. I still didn't particularly want to involve myself in the civil war but my hand, my participation, had been forced. The safety of Whiterun had been ensured. Now it was a case of listening to whatever General Tullius had to offer.

Whiterun was healing as I wandered through the city. Rites had been given to all the bodies, Stormcloaks and our own soldiers, respect being show to all the warriors before they burned. We did our best to identify all the bodies and found lists of names at the Stormcloak camp, guessing that some of those names would match the bodies. It was probable that we would never find out every name.

As for the infrastructure – the buildings, homesteads, even the walls – repairs were already well underway. The first job was to build and replace the gates, as though we didn't expect the Stormcloaks to return, the civilians still needed protection. Bandits and mercenaries still lurked, and while no-one believed they'd actually try and raid, it was better to be safe than sorry. Sections of the wall also needed rebuilding while a number of homes had been destroyed by stones or fire, those people currently being looked after by relatives or provided temporary accommodation around Whiterun.

The Bannered Mare was full of people, most turning as I wandered through the open doors, my hand soon sore from all the handshakes as soldiers, guards and civilians all stepped forward to greet and thank me. I hadn't fought but many of the soldiers said it was my simply being there to instruct and encourage that had helped win the day. I'd learned that simply smiling and returning thanks helped move those conversations along.

I found a table after ordering a tankard and was thankfully left by myself, simply sitting back and allowing myself a moment to relax, enjoying the ambience of the inn, the snippets of conversation, outbreaks of loud laughter and the general hum of a busy tavern.

Four or five tankards in, maybe more as I lost count eventually, I must have fallen asleep in my chair as I woke up startled when feeling a pair of lips brush mine, opening my eyes to see Serana trying very hard not to laugh at me. "Tired, husband?" Gesturing to the table and the empty tankards, I simply smirked and said nothing. "Was wondering where you disappeared to," she added.

"How late is it?"

"It's dark outside now."

"I've been here that long?"

"Ragnar, Hulda sent Saadia to get me because, though she was inclined to keep serving the Dragonborn and Thane of this city, she knew you were getting a little bit drunk."

"A little bit?"

"Okay, very…" I groaned. "Don't worry, you didn't do anything embarrassing."

"Guess I should go home?"

"That is probably a good idea."

I didn't feel all the effects of all the booze until I got to my feet and hit the air outside, figuring I must have staggered badly as Serana wrapped her arm around my left. I'll admit the world started to spin, taking at least a minute or two to gain some sort of equilibrium before we walked down the set of steps towards the marketplace. The walk took far longer than usual as I know I was certainly incapable of walking in a straight line, hearing Serana laugh quietly to herself next to me, though she never let go of my arm.

"You're going straight to bed." I know I gave her a look as she laughed even louder. "And definitely not for that."

"Why not?"

"Because you're drunk."

"So?"

"You'll fall straight asleep as soon as you lie down."

As usual, my wife was right. Once out of my clothes and under the furs, the overwhelming urge to sleep resulted in nothing more than a kiss goodnight from Serana before dreams overtook me once again.

*****

Everything was prepared. The city had been rebuilt as much as possible before the arrival of General Tullius, though the Jarl wanted to leave some scars visible, a sign of how hard the fight had been and to point out the fact that Whiterun had fought alone. We both knew that we had assistance from other organisations but did not need the Empire to keep our city safe.

But the Jarl also wanted to make him feel welcome. The flag of the Empire was raised alongside the flag of Whiterun. Legion soldiers would be allowed to accompany the General and his small entourage as far as Dragonsreach. Guards would ensure his protection on arrival as, although we had done our best to keep news of his journey secret, it wasn't long until rumours turned into a whirlwind, and while no-one confirmed or denied the story, most believed it to be true.

Irileth would meet, greet and then escort the General to Dragonsreach on arrival. Inside Dragonsreach, the Empire flag was again placed alongside the flag of Whiterun. Imperial troops would not be allowed within the walls of the great hall, though there would also be no guards present. The large tables had been cleared away and, in front of the throne itself, a smaller table had been placed, with enough seats for the Jarl and myself, with the General and whoever his second was.

Then we would discuss terms.

The Jarl and I had an idea of what the Empire wanted and what we were ready to offer. We came from a position of strength after our victory over the Stormcloaks, but also knew it was unlikely we could defeat Ulfric a second time, if he chose to attack. I was adamant he wouldn't but Balgruuf was still worried. In the end, it was his city, his people and I knew he would do the best for both of them. I was simply there to give advice. Whether he thought it was any good or not was up to him.

On the morning of the meeting, I took time thinking whether I should wear armour or finery. In the end, I went with the armour. I was Dragonborn, but at heart I was a warrior, and wanted to project myself as such. I had met the General before but I believed he actually knew little about me, though wondered if there were those that spied for the Empire within our walls. I wouldn't have been surprised if someone did, though I had no evidence.

Once dressed, I attached my sword to my hip and shield on my back, kissed Serana goodbye before wandering outside. The city had returned to life after the attack, the marketplace already busy with a steady stream of customers in and out of the many shops. The Gildergreen survived the attack and subsequent outbreak of fires while the roof of Jorrvaskr had been re-patched after learning that a small fire had caused minor damage. I heard one or two calls of my many names, whether it being 'Dragonborn', 'Thane' or 'Companion', as I was rarely called Ragnar by anyone, waving back at the voice, stating I had a meeting. I received knowing glances and smiles.

Balgruuf was waiting at the table as I walked up the stairs towards his throne. For the first time I could remember, he actually looked nervous. Even when sitting beside him on horseback as we faced down Jarl Ulfric, he looked sure and confident. His eyes met mine and he returned a crooked grin.

"Worried, sir?"

"I'll admit the guts have started twisting in the last hour or so, Dragonborn. I'm just worried about making a huge mistake."

"What gives you that idea?"

"We're 'free' at the moment, for want of a better term. I'm wondering if I'm giving up that freedom by talking to the Empire and finally taking a side."

"This day was always going to come, sir."

"Are you disappointed that I'm choosing the Empire?"

I know I must have looked confused. "Why do you ask?"

He shrugged. "Knowing your original intention when journeying here…"

I held up a hand to interrupt. "Sir, enough has happened to suggest my original intention was quite wrong, wouldn't you agree?"

"But you hold no love for the Empire. They may soon be patrolling these very streets."

"I have no love for them but, as of now, I'd prefer them on these streets rather than the Stormcloaks."

"Quite the change in perspective."

"After everything I've learned personally, this was always the road I was going to travel."

He gestured to the table and we finally sat down, calling over one of the stewards. We soon found a plate of food – many varieties of meat, of course – and a pair of tankards in front of us, not expecting the General to arrive for at least some time yet. "We've both met the General, Dragonborn. What are you expecting?" he asked after polishing off half a tankard.

"Hard but fair negotiations. He wants Whiterun on his side. And he'll want my and our help. We've just defeated the Stormcloaks. The Empire haven't tasted a victory like this yet."

"Could yet find yourself recruited if you're not careful, Dragonborn."

"My father was a soldier of the Legion. In a way, I'd be carrying on the family legacy."

"Do you know of anything before that?"

"On my father's side, the family tree heads back north towards Bruma for at least one or two generations. Prior to that, they were from Skyrim but my knowledge is limited as mother only knew the basics. But on my mother's side, it's Cyrodil for as far back as my mother could share. Most men served in the Legion in some capacity. Fighting truly was in my blood."

"Some say there are those born with the heart of a warrior and it is their destiny to wield a sword and shield, Dragonborn. Though, considering the blood that flows through your veins…"

I shrugged. "I always dreamed of being a warrior like my father before me. And his father before him…"

We continued to make small-talk, simply to pass the time, as we waited for the announcement of the arrival of the General. We polished off the plate of food and at least two tankards, warning each other that we shouldn't keep drinking lest we be too drunk for the meeting. Though we then laughed as we shared ideas of how the General would react if we were both rolling drunk. I think that helped the nerves of the Jarl. It helped mine, truth be told. I wasn't a negotiator.

The door into the great hall cracked open. "My Jarl, the General has arrived. Irileth is escorting him through town."

"How is the reception so far?"

"Favourable enough, my Jarl. There is certainly plenty of interest in his arrival."

"That's something at least," the Jarl muttered, "Come, Dragonborn. We should at least meet the General by the door."

We waited side by side near the great doors, waiting for the three knocks. It appeared to be a ritual, remembering the same thing happened when I was made Thane. The Jarl took a final, deep breath as he waited, not saying he held it, but I think he was trying to release the last of any nerves he may have had. I was simply wondering how the General was going to react to my presence. He knew who I was and was aware of my role in the city, though only to a point.

I nearly jumped out of my skin as the three knocks rang out in silence. The Jarl called for the door to open, two guards opening both doors, the General and his subordinate, I think who went by the name as Legate Rikke, appearing at the doorstep. The General stepped forward, hand outstretched.

"Jarl Balgruuf, it is good of you to meet me so quickly."

The two men clasped hands firmly but it appeared friendly enough. "Welcome to Whiterun, General Tullius."

Tullius then looked at me. He actually dipped his head. "Dragonborn," he stated before offering his hand.

I accepted it and nodded my reply. "General."

He then gestured to his companion. "Gentlemen, this is my chief lieutenant, Legate Rikke. I won't go into too much detail. Just know that she's a fellow Nord and wants the best for this city and Skyrim."

She was tall. Not as tall as me, but still, for a woman… Then again, Nord women were physically impressive, certainly larger and stronger than many of their counterparts. Guess it was the breeding, the weather and the lifestyle. She clasped my hand first and I was impressed at the strength of her grip. "Dragonborn."

I smiled. "I remember you well, Rikke, considering you wanted to take my head at Helgen."

She actually blushed. "Ah, yes, I remember…"

"We thought you were a Stormcloak," the General started to explain.

I chuckled, simply to defuse the situation before it got worse. "A simple joke, General. That happened a long time ago and much water has passed under the bridge. I'm just glad I managed to keep my head."

"Us too, considering who you turned out to be," Rikke stated.

"Why don't we all take a seat and I'll have one of my stewards provide some food and drink for our meeting?" the Jarl offered. The General nodded and the four of us convened around the table. "Would you like someone to take minutes of this meeting? My court wizard is capable of keeping a record and can provide a second copy for your records."

"I'll certainly need something to take back to the Emperor."

"The Emperor?" I asked, unable to hide the surprise.

Tullius nodded. "Yes. He's currently on his way to Skyrim by vessel."

"Why is he coming to Skyrim?" the Jarl wondered, "Surely the Stormcloaks will make him a target?"

"You believe the Stormcloaks are capable of that?" Rikke asked, I think trying to hold back a laugh at the thought.

"Anything is possible. Who knows what Jarl Ulfric is tempted to try to obtain victory?" the Jarl asked.

"The official story is that the Emperor is visiting Solitude to attend the wedding of his first cousin, Vittoria Vici. Unofficially, he is in Skyrim to bring his personal touch to bringing this civil war to an end."

"I thought that's what you were here for?" I asked.

Tullius shrugged. "I will simply report to the Emperor in person instead of having to rely on couriers. I will still run the war as the Military Governor but the Emperor will no doubt want to cast his eye over certain operations."

"Who is Vittoria marrying?" Balgruuf asked.

"Asgeir Snow-Shod. He's a noble from the Reach. Riften, in fact."

The Jarl and I shared a glance. "He's a Stormcloak?" I asked, now unable to hold back my surprise again.

"He may live in the city under their flag, and may perhaps be a sympathiser, but at heart he's loyal to the Empire. It's how we managed to convince him to marry. The Emperor gave the union his personal blessing," Tullius explained.

"It's an arranged marriage," Rikke added, "But, surprisingly, Asgeir and Vittoria do actually appear to have genuine feelings for each other.

Tullius grinned. "Never had you picked as a romantic, Sigrid?"

"I might be a warrior, Marcus," she replied, with a wry grin of course, "But I'm also a woman and enjoy the idea of two strangers falling in love."

"You should talk to my wife. And my Housecarl," I stated.

"You're married?" the General asked.

I nodded. "I am," I replied, proudly displaying my wedding band.

"Congratulations. We had no idea."

I shrugged. "Personally, it's a big deal but I didn't ask the Jarl to spread the word far and wide that I was now married."

The Jarl cleared his throat and we knew the small-talk was at an end. A steward brought forward a pair of plates, one covered in a variety of meats, the other in a number of delicious looking delicacies, while each of us was provided with a tankard of mead. Once we'd had a bite to eat and a sip of mead, the General gestured to the Jarl, offering him the chance to beginning the negotiation.

"Thank you, General." He then gestured to me. "Dragonborn?"

The General looked at me, eyes wide before the slightest of smirks appeared. "What are your terms, General?"

"A blunt but fair question, Dragonborn."

"While we come from a position of relative strength, having just faced down and defeated two armies of Ulfric Stormcloak, we are also realistic about our position. We invited representatives of the Empire here today because we were willing to hear what you had to offer and what you would be able to provide our city."

The General leaned forward, arching his fingers and gazed across myself and the Jarl. He then nodded as if understanding why I meant. There was a subtle dig in my tone though I certainly wasn't being aggressive. I just wanted the Military Governor of Skyrim to know that we would not be bullied. Technically, for the moment, we were still neutral, despite what either the Empire or Stormcloaks thought.

"We certainly recognise your victory over the Stormcloaks, Jarl Balgruuf. What you must understand is that, according to the Emperor and myself, Whiterun is still a city of the Empire."

"We understand that, General."

"But we do understand your desire to remain neutral in this conflict. However, would you agree that your neutrality is now at an end?" The Jarl could only nod. "While we don't anticipate another Stormcloak attack on your city, we think it would be wise to err on the side of caution. And the Empire is willing to help, if you are willing to accept it."

"It will depend on your terms. I have some of my own."

The General gestured. "If I may hear yours first please, Jarl Balgruuf. That will help us come to terms relatively quickly."

"I will accept Whiterun being brought back into the Imperial fold. However, I would like a degree of autonomy within that fold."

"What sort of autonomy?"

"I would prefer few Imperial troops on my streets. My city has been bitterly divided for many months by the conflict and their presence may re-open old wounds. However, there is a fort down the road that we did occupy at one time. I believe that would be an acceptable measure for your troops to maintain a presence in Whiterun Hold itself while limiting its presence inside my walls."

"But you would accept the fact that Whiterun is part of the Empire, as is all of Skyrim?"

"Yes."

It was a simple reply but the one the General wanted to hear, a slight grin as he nodded.

"One more proviso, General," I added. He looked at me, waiting for whatever I had to say. "We will not put up with Thalmor interference in this city. What I mean is that the Thalmor are not welcome within these walls. If they try to enter, they will be stopped."

"I'm surprised the Thalmor are not present at this meeting," Balgruuf added.

"They have not been informed," Tullius stated, a wry grin on his face, "While we can agree to those terms, we can't actually tell the Thalmor to stay away." He then looked my way. "I would watch your back, Dragonborn."

"You don't have to warn me, General," I replied, a smirk of my own.

"Will Whiterun offer any men for the Imperial forces?" he then asked the Jarl.

"You may recruit those who would be willing to fight but I will not accept conscription."

"We can agree to those terms. There is one matter that must be discussed." He then looked at me. "We must discuss your presence here, Dragonborn."

"Whiterun is my home, General."

"We understand. We also know of the myth surrounding you, after your defeat of Alduin and the ending of the Dragon Crisis. And we know you also helped end the vampire menace at Castle Volkihar. We've heard news of other events that has involved your personal touch. I believe you are Arch-Mage of the College?"

I chuckled. "Officially, I am, but it's merely ceremonial. I have others who actually do the job. But what are you concerned about?"

"We're not concerned at all. To be honest, we want your help."

"I'm not sure…"

"We know your father was an Imperial soldier…"

I know I glared as the General trailed off. Rikke leaned over to speak to him. "Sir, I don't think…" She looked my way and nodded an apology. "I apologise, Dragonborn. But we only recently learned of that detail. We merely wondered what led to you originally coming to Skyrim to join the Stormcloaks."

"Because I thought it was a worthy cause. But I've discovered plenty since that suggests I was wrong in those thoughts. Have either of you been to Windhelm?" A pair of heads were shaken. "Find out how they treat anyone who isn't a Nord within those walls. That is one example of why I now fight against them. The main reason being, of course, the fact he attacked this city."

"Would you consider joining the Imperial Legion, Dragonborn?" the General asked directly.

"No," I stated flatly. I raised a hand as he looked ready to argue. "But I can offer you a different sort of arrangement."

"I'm willing to hear you out."

"I will help the Empire end the civil war and the Stormcloak threat. But I will not join the Legion to do so. As Whiterun would like a degree of autonomy, I too will operate as the Dragonborn with autonomy. I will take orders from only you, General Tulllius, or you, Legate Rikke, if the General is not available to do so. But I already have many men and women who will flock to my banner within this city, and more than likely across Skyrim."

"You have a banner?"

I nodded. "It is something my wife and I have been designing. I am Thane of this city and need a crest. Within that crest, I will include the dragon, a dual symbol of my blood and the Empire."

"So you would be willing to fight alongside the Legion, at least? Rikke and I both agree that having the Dragonborn alongside our own men would be a great boon. And will no doubt strike fear into the Stormcloak ranks."

I looked at the Jarl, who nodded, before turning my eyes to the General. "I take it you would not have come here and asked without having some sort of idea of what you want to do."

"Do you have a map?"

The Jarl waved for a steward to gather the map from upstairs, it unrolled across the table a couple of minutes later, the plates cleared out of the way, corners held down by our tankards. "If what you say is correct, Dragonborn, that you have a potential army of people at your disposal, then that may be enough to turn the tide and finally break the stalemate."

"What do you have planned?"

Tullius gestured as he spoke. "We need to take forts and cities to spread Imperial power, forcing the Stormcloaks back towards Windhelm. We want a dual thrust, the first north taking forts until we hit Dawnstar, the second heading south towards Riften."

"I can take Riften," I stated adamantly.

Tullius and Rikke didn't miss my tone. "Why are you eager to do that?"

"I have a good friend there and have got to know many of the citizens of the city. I would like to help them in a number of ways."

"What do you mean?" Rikke asked curiously.

"The Thieves Guild operate in the city."

"Preposterous," Tullius scoffed, though there was an edge to his tone. An edge which suggested there was an element of worry and belief in my words.

"I think it's worth an investigation at least."

"We could tap up Maven for assistance," Rikke added.

Now that got my attention! "Excuse me, but you don't happen to mean Maven Black-Briar?" Rikke nodded. I looked at the General. "You're kidding, right?"

"She's a loyal subject of…"

I quickly interrupted the General. "She's also implicated by many citizens of Riften as being the chief benefactor of the guild itself."

"Do you have any evidence? Does anyone have any evidence?" Rikke asked. Tullius stayed quiet, obviously unhappy.

"I don't. But I can get some, if that's required."

"And it would have been damned irrefutable for us to turn our backs on our only known ally in that city," Tullius added.

"Of course, General. I mean no offence to either of you, but have you been to Riften and seen the situation?" Both shook their heads. Obviously. "I've been there a number of times. Whether Maven is involved or not is up to question. But I've been in the Ratway. There is a guild operating there. And I believe Maven is involved."

"What makes you so sure?"

"My friend told me she was. And I believe her."

"Does she have any evidence?"

"Anecdotal at the moment. But if you want solid evidence, I can get it for you."

"How?" Tullius asked, genuinely intrigued.

"I told my friend I would help her in regards to the guild. Now seems a perfect opportunity to strike."

"And how will you do that?" Rikke wondered.

"I'll infiltrate their ranks and see if I can find a connection."

Rikke turned to Tullius. "If there is a connection, we'll need to rethink our strategy. We can't be seen allying with a criminal… if she is one."

Tullius was silent for at least a minute or so, tapping his hands on the table as he thought. Finally, he nodded. "Very well. We're willing to trust you, Dragonborn."

"Thanks," I stated, I'll admit, in complete surprise.

"Don't sound so shocked. There are plenty of reasons why you've won the respect and admiration of many of my soldiers for the way you've dealt with a number of crises across this land. So, we're willing to give you time. I don't like hearing it, of course. I've known Maven for many years and she's always been reliable. But you have done more than enough to earn both our trust at the same time, so if you think there is something worth investigating, then so be it."

"Give someone enough rope and they'll hang themselves with it," the Jarl stated, "Though I'm not sure if it'll be this Maven or the Dragonborn."

"Get me that evidence, Dragonborn, and if it is solid, we will ensure Maven is dealt with. We must prove to be honest and a potential link to someone in the guild would be an embarrassment. We must ensure that we protect the citizens of Whiterun. We must prove to be better than the Stormcloaks."

"I'm not sure how long this could all take."

"We've been in stalemate for months. What we don't want is the destruction of cities across Skyrim. That will do nothing to help bring Skyrim back to the Empire. If you can help get Riften back under the banner of the Empire, then we're willing to give you that time."

"I've heard rumours of how the Thieves Guild operate, Dragonborn," the Jarl added, "I can only suggest you be careful in your dealings with them."

"Won't you be recognised?" Rikke asked.

"I don't think so. Many know my name but don't my face. But I'll take precautions." I sighed. "The long hair and beard will have to go, I guess. I'll change what I wear, try and look like a thief. I'll try to capture their attention and make them come to me."

"When will you go?"

"As soon as possible. I'll have to run this by the wife, of course. Not for permission, but I assume I won't be home for a while. She may want to come with me."

"Are you sure that's wise?" Balgruuf wondered.

"You know my wife, sir. She's dealt with worse."

"If you were to fight alongside us, Dragonborn, would you at least be willing to take an oath? Not the one Legions soldiers must take when they enter service, but one that would at least solidify your, let's call it alliance, with the Legion."

"I have no problem with that."

"Jarl Balgruuf, would you be willing to sign an agreement regarding conditions of Whiteruns re-entry to the Empirical sphere of influence?"

"Yes. I'm sure, in addition to the notes he's taken, my court wizard can write up a formal agreement that both sides can be happy with."

And that was that. Whiterun was autonomous but back under the Empire banner. Was I disappointed? The Ragnar entering Skyrim all that time ago wouldn't have even been at the meeting. The Ragnar who had just defeated Alduin would have listened but would probably not have agreed. But the Ragnar of today had changed his mind regarding the civil war. He knew who the real enemy was.

Once the agreement had been written up, the Jarl and General signed before Rikke and I signed as witnesses. Tullius stated he would take it straight to the Emperor and would be in contact soon about any operation in Riften. He asked if I could remain in Whiterun until then. I had no other plans so readily agreed. With little else to discuss, there was another round of handshakes before they were escorted back towards the city gates.

Although I had instructions not to do anything, the Jarl knew I would start preparations immediately for my trip to Riften. I bade him farewell, stating I would visit before I left, heading straight home to tell Serana of everything that had transpired during the meeting. She asked only one question.

"When do we leave?"