An Offer

It all started, as usual, with a knock at the door. After the usual salute, one of the guards said the Jarl was requesting my presence. I didn't bother asking what for. The guards never knew. They were just told to come and grab me.

"What do you think the jarl wants?" Serana asked, as she accompanied me to Dragonsreach.

"Honestly, I have no idea. Apart from that business with the Alik'r a couple of months ago, life has been rather quiet recently."

The throne room was empty, only a guard standing to either side of the throne itself. I looked at the one standing to the right of the throne, the guard gesturing up with his head. We found Irileth waiting for us in the map room. "The jarl is waiting for you in his sitting room." Before I could even ask what he wanted, she just said, "He will explain everything." She then looked at my wife. "You'd better stay with me for the time being, Serana. The jarl wants to see Ragnar alone."

I wouldn't say that worried me, but the glance Serana and I shared was one of confusion. She just shrugged and wandered over to one of the chairs at the table as I walked into the Jarl's personal quarters. In addition to the jarl, I found General Tullius alongside him, both obviously waiting for my arrival. Both rose as I walked through the door, a round of handshakes before the Jarl gestured towards the third chair.

"I guess you're wondering why you've been summoned, Ragnar," the Jarl stated.

"Right you are, sir. I figured you wanted me for another job."

"Not this time, Ragnar. In fact, what we have to talk about… well…" He turned towards General Tullius. "I think you'd better explain."

The other man nodded before leaning forward, arms on his knees, though he looked straight at me. "As you're aware, Ragnar, the Emperor is dead and the throne lies empty. In addition to that, Skyrim has no High King. There is a power vacuum at the moment. Apart from the Council, I'm probably one of the most powerful men in the Empire, and certainly the most powerful man in Skyrim. Well, aside from the lone man with the power of the Thu'um, but he's an ally and beside the point. I'll be honest, I don't like that, the fact there is no-one in charge. I have no desire to hold power. I was sent here to resolve the civil war. That is done. Job complete. Though I would like to remain in Skyrim and oversee rebuilding efforts, there are still plenty of other threats to the Empire that need solving. And to have those solved, we need someone in charge. We need an Emperor. The Council can't be trusted to run things for too long. They always break into factional infighting and don't get anything done."

"So how does all that involve me?"

Both men shared an obvious glance before turning back towards me. "What about you, Ragnar?" the Jarl finally asked.

"What about me what, sir?"

"You're Dragonborn, of the Dragonblood, maybe the same as the Septim line that ended two hundred years ago. The people of Skyrim already near revere you as it is. The people of Cyrodiil don't know you yet, but stories have made their way to the Imperial City. To have one of the same blood on the throne once again, even though you are not a Septim, would perhaps help heal old wounds."

I took a few moments to digest what was just said. "Just so I'm hearing you right, sir. You're saying I should try and become Emperor?"

"You will have my backing and all the armies within Skyrim, Ragnar," General Tullius stated, "I know for a fact the army you commanded will follow you into Cyrodiil tomorrow if you wanted."

"I don't want it. I don't want to be Emperor."

"It's the right thing to do, Ragnar," Jarl Balgruuf replied, "You would be a unifying figure, not just in Skyrim, but within the Empire itself. A Nord back on the Imperial throne, sharing the same blood as Tiber Septim himself. The man who ended the dragon threat. The man who ensured the Empire remained whole. Honestly, there is no-one else out there with a more legitimate claim to the throne."

I looked at the General. "You would have my support too, Ragnar. If you were to march into Cyrodiil, I'll be at your side. And so would nearly every man under my command."

I sat back, blowing air out of my mouth as I ran a hand through my hair. "A lot to take in?" the jarl wondered. I couldn't help chuckle and nod. "It's the right thing to do, as the General said."

There was only one problem I could think of. "Okay, say I agree to this. We travel to Cyrodiil and lay claim to the throne. What next? Because the Thalmor know who I am. I mean who I really am. I've caused them no end of trouble. If I become Emperor, I can only see one outcome."

"The Thalmor are still in no position to wage full scale war against us," the General stated confidently, "Don't get me wrong. I have no doubt they'll sabre rattle about the fact you're on the throne. But once you're on it, they will have to deal with you directly. I look forward to watching them squirm."

"I'll need to think about this. And obviously speak to my wife. We were ready to just settle down and get on with our lives. This will… complicate things."

"Of course, Ragnar. Take your time to think things over. Just not too long. The longer the throne lies empty, the more people will think they have a chance. There are a couple of lords in Cyrodiil who are raising personal armies to possibly take it. If you cross the border with an Imperial Army at your back, that will partly legitimise your claim. Once they learn who you are exactly, I can't see anyone standing in your way."

I sat quietly for at least a minute. "Give me a few days to think things over and talk things over with people."

"Of course, Ragnar. I will head back to Solitude and await your response. Will you come tell me in person?"

I nodded. "I think that's the least I can do."

Grabbing the wife from downstairs, I wasn't surprised to see Lydia waiting for me near the entrance. Word always travelled fast. "Gather everyone, Lydia. Nightingales, Companions, everyone. We all need to talk."

"About what, my thane?"

"Not yet. Just have everyone meet at Jorrvaskr. I'll explain it all there."

Everyone requested was sat around the large fire half an hour later, or at least that is what Serana reported, as I was down in Kodlak's old quarters. I still didn't consider them mine, the twins and Aela leaving the room exactly as it was the day he died. I know she was eager to hear whatever it was I had to say, though she didn't ask any questions. Before walking through the door leading upstairs, Serana stopped and hugged me tightly.

"What was that for?" I asked.

She just smiled. "I love you, no matter what."

I blinked at her in silence for a few seconds, then smiled. "We'll be just fine."

Walking up hand in hand, all conversation ceased and eyes were immediately upon me. I didn't really know how to explain the conversation I had with the Jarl and General, so figured I should just ask a blunt question. "Who thinks it would be a good idea for me to become Emperor?"

There were a couple of gasps, a few bursts of quick laughter and plenty of questions before they all died down. "You're serious?" Lydia finally asked.

"It's what the Jarl, General Tullius and I were just talking about. They believe I have a legitimate claim, simply due to the blood that flows through my veins. Plus, I guess helping defeat Alduin and end the civil war has increased my legitimacy."

"And you've called us all in here for what? Our opinion?" Aela asked, chuckling, "Ragnar, I think I could probably speak for everyone in this room right now. Do it. And we'll all follow you."

I looked around the room, a sea of nodding heads in approval. "Sure you could handle calling me Emperor?"

"Harbinger. Dragonborn. Emperor. What's the difference?" Vilkas replied with humour.

"Quite the step up from Thane to Emperor," Lydia added.

I finally looked at my wife. "Serana?"

"When do we go?"

I shared a glance with one or two others before returning my attention to her. "Seriously?"

"I can't think of anyone better to take the role, Ragnar. The most important question is; Do you want it?"

"I've never really thought about it. Our lives will forever change if I accept."

"I can handle that. I'm sure you can too. Granted, it'll mean no more fighting, though I'm sure you have ideas about where you can send your armies." I couldn't help the slight smile, as I knew what she was referring to. "The most important thing is that, at heart, you're a good, decent, honest man. And the fact you don't want it means you are the perfect candidate."

"So everyone is in agreement that I should accept?" I looked around the room, meeting everyone's eyes. I received a nod from each and every person. "I won't say I will do it right at this moment. Let me think about it and make sure I'm one hundred percent certain. Lydia, can you run up to Dragonsreach and ask the General to wait around until I've made my decision?"

"I'll go at once, my thane."

"I'll let the rest of you know my decision once it's made."

That night in bed, I lay back, thinking about what I or we should do, considering any choice I made would impact Serana. It felt like I was making a life-altering decision for the both of us, and I knew she would follow without hesitation. So I asked if she could pack a bag in preparation for an expedition in the morning. "Where to?" she asked.

"I would like to go see some old friends before I make a choice."

We left just after dawn, our small packs tied to the rear of our horses, both of us covered in furs at my suggestion as I hadn't told Serana exactly where we were going. We followed the road east towards Riften, barely trotting along, the wife occasionally asking where we were going. I just responded that she would figure it out soon enough.

By the time we were on the outskirts of Darkwater Crossing, I think she'd pretty much figured it out, and definitely had once we turned onto the path towards Ivarstead. Reaching the village early afternoon, we stopped for a quick bite of lunch before re-mounting and beginning the trek up the mountain. As discovered with Lydia many months ago, riding up the mountain was far easier, and although there was the occasional concern as our horses did struggle for grip at times on the icy surface, we made High Hrothgar just as the sun was setting.

"I've heard of this place but would never have believed I would ever visit it," Serana stated, almost in awe, as I took a moment to pray at the statue of Talos. Once I'd paid my respects, we headed inside.

I don't know if they had a sixth sense or not, but the four Greybeards appeared within seconds of us walking through the doors. I was heartened by the slight smile Master Arngeir had on his face as he approached, grabbing my outstretched hand with both of his own.

"Dragonborn, we did not believe you would return for a long time." The he looked to my side. "And this is?"

"Master Arngeir, this is Serana. My wife."

The smile broadened as he offered his hand to her. "Your wife? Well, that is most unexpected. Welcome to High Hrothgar."

"You're a Greybeard!" Serana whispered.

Arngeir chuckled. "I am. As are these three. Though only I am capable of conversing with you."

"I am honoured, Master."

The pleasantries over quickly, Arngeir then asked, "What brings you back to High Hrothgar, Dragonborn?"

We took a seat at one of the nearby tables, another of the Greybeard bringing across three tankards for us. After thanking him, I got to the heart of the matter. "Have you had much news recently?"

"No. You know we don't concern ourselves with the matters of others."

"Okay, the civil war is finished. Ulfric is dead."

I was surprised to see Arngeir shake his head. "Such a waste…" he said quietly.

"I believe he trained here?"

"Aye, he did. A long time ago now. He would have made a fine Greybeard as his learning of the Thu'um was exemplary. But… Well, I can understand the draw of being a warrior, much like yourself, Dragonborn. But I take it there's more than just the war being over?"

"They want me to be the Emperor."

"They?"

"General Tullius. Jarl Balgruuf. And I assume the General has spoken to plenty of others. They're convinced I should."

"Because of your blood?" I nodded. He looked at my wife. "And what do you think?"

"Ragnar is a good man. And he would make a fine Emperor."

He smiled at her before looking back at me. "So are you looking for my advice or…?"

I could only shrug, a little helpless. "I'm not sure."

"It's been many years since one of the Dragonblood sat on the throne. It may take one of the Dragonblood to assume the throne once again to stabilise the Empire and once again lead it to glory."

"That's not particularly keeping with the Way of the Voice."

The old man smirked. "It is not, Dragonborn. But though we care little about what happens below this mountain, even we would recognise that to become Emperor would be a fantastic opportunity. And you may help bring peace back to Tamriel. If not yourself, then perhaps your children." He didn't know, and I unconsciously grabbed Serana's hand. He noticed. "Oh, I apologise, I did not…"

"It is fine, Master," Serana said, "And, well, there are always other means…" I looked at her for a moment, wondering what she meant. She just met my eyes and smiled. "That is a discussion for the future, Ragnar."

"I would like to speak to Paarthurnax too."

"Oh, why?"

"You're aware that I do not kill dragons unless absolutely necessary, if left no choice?"

"We are. That word has spread."

"I would like to form some sort of alliance, between man and dragon. They are my kin, as much as any man is. And, well, I'm thinking I may need their help in the future."

"I can't answer for any dragon, Dragonborn. But know that they concern themselves with the issues of man even less than we do. However, Paarthurnax has deep respect for your Thu'um. In the end, it is their decision. I assume you will travel up tomorrow?"

"Aye."

"Join us for dinner. Your quarters will be the same as last time."

Serana and I headed up the mountain the next morning, again having to use my Voice to clear the path. Even though both of us were wrapped in furs, the wind near froze us to the bone, while our feet ended up soaked as the snow lay deep on the ground. It was a long, hard slog, harder than I remembered.

There was no sign of Paarthurnax at the top, so after waiting around for a couple of minutes, I figured I'd Shout his name to get his attention. Serana and I took a seat on one of the smaller boulders and waited. "How long until he gets here?"

I shrugged. "No idea. But he would have heard the summons."

He arrived a few minutes later, landing on the crumbling word wall. Serana, already standing, took an involuntary step backwards, before I grabbed her hand and walked forward.

"Dovahkiin, an unexpected summons."

"It has been a while, Paarthurnax. Are you well?"

"I have been spreading the word, Dovahkiin. It is going as expected. Some listen. Others do not. But we have been left alone since Alduin… So I can only assume your warning about leaving us be is being heeded."

"Ragnar, I don't understand what you're saying," Serana whispered.

"Oh, sorry, speaking in their tongue is just second nature. Do you want us to change?"

"No, if it's easier to use theirs, that's fine."

"What brings you here again, Dovahkiin?"

"Paarthurnax, I have some news and a proposition. I know the goings on of man don't concern you, but I thought I would ask. I have been offered the chance to be Emperor."

"And are you considering it?"

"I am. But I would be taking over an Empire that is still on its knees, with an enemy at the gates, waiting to put us to the sword once again. Which is what my proposition is about?"

"Go on."

"You probably haven't heard of the Thalmor, but they want to put an end to the Empire. In fact, I don't think they'd just stop there. I believe they have plans for what they want to do to man. And I don't think High Hrothgar or this place would be safe if they were to be victorious. I'd go so far as to say no dragon would be safe if the Thalmor win. So my proposition is this; an alliance between man and dragon against the Thalmor. And one more thing," I added, opening my backpack and unfurling the banner, "I'm not sure if you've ever seen it, but this is the symbol of the Empire."

"A dragon?"

"Correct. And next to that is my banner. Obvious, as I'm Dragonborn. Dragons have been central to the mythology of the Empire, whichever one it is, for thousands of years. I don't expect your assistance all the time. I would like to leave you at peace. But I have a feeling that you won't be left in peace unless the Thalmor are completely defeated."

"You believe they are that much of a threat?"

"Yes. I'm not exactly sure what they have planned, but they want war with the Empire. They want to finish the job they started with Great War. If I become Emperor, I plan to consolidate the Empire then go on the front foot. And I'd like the help of yourselves, my blood, my kin, to complete the job. Once that is done, then I will ensure you are left in peace again."

"Do you want my decision now, Dovahkiin?"

"No, of course not. Speak with the others. Come to a consensus."

"Let me summon someone else, who I know respects you."

Odahviing appeared a few minutes, and I asked of him the same as I'd asked of Paarthurnax. He snorted, I think in derision, which only made my chuckle. I remembered our previous conversations. He cared less for the plight of man than any dragon I'd conversed with, not that I'd conversed with many. "But I wouldn't mind a good fight," he added.

"So you're interested?"

"As I said, Dovahkiin, you've proved your power of the Thu'um, and that you could call upon my assistance if you desired. My word is my bond. And at least you're asking and not expecting it, like Alduin. I'm sure there are others out there who will gladly lend their assistance to the Dovahkiin. The power of your Thu'um is absolute, and though many of our kin has not met you, they certainly know of you."

Paarthurnax had listened intently before adding, "I will give you the names of our kin who I believe will be willing to assist, Dovahkiin, so that you may summon them when needed." Similar to when I'd absorbed souls, I learned within seconds the names of many dragons, understanding not only their names but the meanings behind them.

"You both have my thanks."

"We know you would not abuse the power you have, Dovahkiin. That is why we would be willing to accept this alliance, between man and dov. If these Thalmor that you speak of are a real threat, then we would be more than willing to help protect ourselves," Paarthurnax added.

I then thought of some people I hadn't given any thought in months. "Have you had any trouble from the Blades or anyone else?"

Odahviing snorted. "No. We know where the Blades are, and they have been recruiting, though not in any great numbers, but I believe they took your advice about leaving us alone to heart. We don't know exactly what they're doing, but they appear to be keeping to themselves."

"Good. I feel I may need to go speak to them, see if they've changed perspective."

"If you think that is wise," Paarthurnax stated. I don't think he believed their minds would have changed.

Satisfied with our agreement, I bid the two dragons farewell, heading back down the mountain with Serana. Realising she wouldn't have understood any of the conversation, I filled her in with the major details. She was rather surprised that dragons would help anyone though understood the reason at heart. "And I think they probably still thank you for destroying Alduin. You not only saved us but them. They would have died with everyone else."

"Hmmm. Good point."

"And I know you would only call upon them when you really need them, such as when there is full scale war."

We stopped at High Hrothgar on the way back down, informing Master Arngeir of the discussion I'd just had. It was then time to bid farewell again, wondering if I would ever have the opportunity to return. He wished me good luck and we embraced, before they gave me a parting gift, all four sharing their Thu'um with me, much like the very first time I'd set foot in the monastery. I'll admit, with slightly heavy heart, I thanked them profusely for all their help before leaving.

During the journey, I suggested that I had one more group to find, not to ally with, but to discuss the future. When Serana asked who, I told her it was the Blades. She didn't quite understand what had happened, so I filled her in.

"What if they don't co-operate?"

"That's why we're stopping at home first. I'm collecting everyone, then we'll head to their headquarters. If they're co-operative, great. If not, then they die. I can't have them doing gods only knows what. They've had free reign for the time being, as long as they didn't interfere with what I was doing. But I'm not letting them do whatever they want if and when I become Emperor. They will fall in line."

"Are you going to restart the Blades?"

"No. They will be disbanded but will be amalgamated into a new force. I just need to think of a name."

"The Nightingales?"

"No. They will be my spies. I will instruct the four I have now to start recruiting immediately. I don't particularly need bodyguards, but I do want a team of elite soldiers I can trust beyond anyone else."

We left Whiterun the next morning, my entourage eager for another expedition, but also wary of what we might end up walking into. I wasn't aware the Blades had been recruiting, and I had no idea why they'd even bother, considering the warning I'd given them. Maybe they were just working as mercenaries? Perhaps they were causing the Thalmor trouble? That second option would actually please me no end. I figured seeing Delphine again would be rather interesting too.

I couldn't remember the last time I'd been in Sky Haven Temple. The only other person who had been inside was Lydia, so for everyone else, it was a new experience. After tying up all our horses, we wandered through the now empty cave towards the entrance, walking by one or two dressed in Blades uniforms, and I figured our presence would be announced.

Unsurprisingly, Delphine and Esbern were waiting for us at the entrance. It appeared time had healed wounds, as although the greeting wasn't exactly friendly, she did offer her hand, which I accepted. "Dragonborn, I hear you've been busy."

"Skyrim had a few problems that needed solving."

"What brings you to Sky Haven Temple?"

"I'm going to be Emperor."

She couldn't hide the surprise. Esbern actually looked pleased. "Dragonblood back on the throne. Normality restored," he said quietly to himself.

"So why are you here?" Delphine asked.

"I can't have the Blades doing whatever they are doing. I have given it some thought. I will need a spy network and I will need either body guards or an elite cadre of soldiers. The Blades will be disbanded but you have an opportunity to serve the Emperor once again."

"And the Thalmor?"

I couldn't stop the smile. "Will be dealt with eventually. Not quickly. There are other pressing concerns."

"And if we say no?" I glanced back, seeing weapons unsheathed within seconds.

"I don't want it to come to that, Delphine. I know I said I would not be able to forgive. I am here now, proving that I can, if you accept what I am offering."

"And the dragons?"

I knew she would ask. I glanced at Lydia. "Keep watch. I need Delphine to see something. You too, Esbern, if you're interested."

We walked out into the courtyard on the other side of the temple, where I told them to wait and then I Shouted. A minute or so later, there was a roar in the distance before Odahviing appeared, landing a few feet away. Delphine and Esbern both took a couple of steps back, Odahviing walking towards us before he sat down on the ground.

"You called, Dovahkiin?" he asked, using language the Blades could understand.

"Sorry to disturb you again, but I just needed you to prove something." I glanced back and gestured. "Come and say hello. This is Odahviing."

"It's a dragon…" Esbern started to say, before trailing off.

"And it's not going to kill you or anyone else. In fact, you could say that we have come to some sort of understanding."

"What sort of understanding?" Delphine asked suspiciously.

So Odahviing and I explained everything that was agreed the day before on the Throat of the World. Esbern actually looked impressed by it all, particularly once I threw in what had happened with the death of Alduin and original peace agreement I had with the dragons. Delphine was silent for a long time before adding her thoughts. Her first words almost floored me.

"I was wrong, Dragonborn." I knew I looked surprised, as she added, "I apologise. I let hatred consume me. But it appears I may have been no better than the dragons I hated."

"You hated Alduin, and had every right too. You had right to hate us too, but there is now peace in this land," Odahviing stated.

"Water under the bridge if you're willing to start this relationship anew," I replied, offering my hand. Delphine accepted immediately.

"Of course, Dragonborn. But do the Blades need to be disbanded?"

"They will be in name, simply to make the Thalmor think I am starting already weakened. They definitely won't know about my spy network and, as I said, I have plenty of ideas already. It looks like you've been recruiting, and I'll need all the allies I can get. Because I've caused the Thalmor no end of problems, and I have no doubt that they will be preparing for war once I ascend the throne."

"It would feel good to be involved in something again other than taking out some bandits…" Then she smirked, "Or causing the Thalmor trouble."

"And you'll get your opportunity for more if and when I become Emperor."

Then she appeared unsure. It was a fleeting moment, but I saw it. "And what happened before, between us?"

"As I said, forgotten and forgiven if you join me now and accept the new reality of man and dragon. It is time to leave the old hatreds in the past. I understand why you did, and may still do, but it was a long time ago now. Alduin is dead. The other dragons are now free, and many now choose to respect my word. They will leave us alone as long as we leave them alone." I turned towards the dragon. "Odahviing, you have my thanks. You probably won't hear from me again for a while, but I may call on you again one day."

"I look forward to it, Dovahkiin." Yes, he was being sarcastic, but I already knew that about him. I watched the dragon take off and disappear behind one of the mountains before turning my attention back to Delphine.

"I never thought you'd come back."

"If it wasn't for this opportunity, I probably wouldn't have, being honest."

"Appreciate the honesty, Dragonborn. That's definitely one good thing you will take into the new job."

"As long as anything that happened before is put behind us, then I think the future looks good. Agreed?"

She actually smiled. It was slight, but it was there. "Agreed. So, we will need time to prepare. How long do we have?" Delphine asked as we walked back inside.

"I'm not sure, but it would be best if you headed to Whiterun as soon as possible. And, to be honest, once we're in the Imperial City, I don't think any of us will want for anything. Honestly, just bring yourselves and everything else can be sorted out."

She looked around. "It will be a shame to leave this place abandoned once again."

"Make sure Esbern writes it down this time, so the history isn't lost."

I gathered my other team around and explained what we were doing. Delphine said they would take at least a day to prepare, so if we wanted to leave, she would meet us in Whiterun. After plenty of introductions, including the recruits Delphine had made over the many months since our last parting, we certainly parted on far friendlier terms this time, Delphine stating they would arrive in Whiterun sometime the next day.

We arrived back in Whiterun after sunset. I figured everyone else would head home, but all of them followed me up to Dragonsreach. I was sent upstairs into the Jarl's private quarters, where he was enjoying a drink with the General. Both looked in my direction when I entered. Before they could say anything, I said six simple words.

"I accept. When do we begin?"