Journal of Vannus Arriattus
(Please note that this story is a work in progress, I would love any feedback that could help improve the rest of the story, thanks)
Turdas, 11 of Second Seed, 4E 263:
The Second Great War is over, and for the first time in centuries, Tamriel is at peace. I remember hearing stories from my grandfather of his time in the legion, when the land was rife with conflict. One story I remember vividly was that of the battle of Windhelm, in which my grandfather fought and defeated the Stormcloak rebels, and killed Ulfric Stormcloak himself (although I suspect he embellished that part somewhat). In the time of my grandfather, the Aldmeri Dominion ruled over most of Tamriel and had made the Empire it's puppet state, but thanks to the combined forces of Cyrodiil, Skyrim, Hammerfell, High Rock and Elswyr that time is over, the Dominion has been pushed back to Valenwood and Summerset and has signed a truce with the new Fourth Empire of Tamriel. I myself fought in the war against the Dominion and have now decided to settle down and maybe start a family sometime, here in Riverwood, I have also decided to start keeping a journal.
Sundas, 14 of Second Seed, 4E 263:
Word has reached me that the king of High Rock has refused to cede portions of Cyrodiil captured from the Dominion to the Empire, and tensions are beginning to mount. It is known that Emperor Tiber Afeninus has his sights set on High Rock, and will likely use this as an excuse for an invasion. I fear I may be called back to active service to fight against High Rock.
Morndas, 22 of Second Seed, 4E 263:
By the Nine! Breton forces have attacked Northwatch Keep! The emperor has refused all emissaries from High Rock claiming that the attacking forces were not acting under orders from the king of High Rock. Skyrim and Morrowind swore fealty to the Empire after the Second Great War and so their forces are alongside Cyrodiil's on the border between High Rock and Skyrim. It seems that total war is imminent.
Middas, 24 of Second Seed, 4E 263:
War has been declared. Imperial forces have been mobilized to attack High Rock. The king of High Rock, Debenr Ildeush, knows he cannot fight the combined forces of the Empire alone, and has sent word to Hammerfell, Black Marsh and Elswyr asking for assistance. Tamriel is at war once more.
Loredas, 27 of Second Seed, 4E 263:
Hammerfell and Black Marsh have agreed to support High Rock in the war, and Elswyr has decided to stay neutral. Hammerfell was practically a given, because of their strong historical ties to High Rock. Black Marsh joined as the Argonians could not stand the thought of being on the same side as their former oppressors, the Dunmer. In response to this, The Empire has begun drafting the people of Cyrodiil, Skyrim and Morrowind en masse. I believe it to be likely that I will be called back to active service to fight.
Turdas, 1 of Mid Year, 4E 263:
A courier arrived at my home today, bringing a letter from the Imperial Army. I knew what the letter would be, but still I hoped that I would be somehow wrong. Unfortunately, I was right, the letter was an order to return to active duty. I am to report to Fort Greymoor near Whiterun within the week, there I will receive my equipment and orders. I pray to the Eight and One that I will be stationed as reserve, but I know I am a sergeant in the Legion so being stationed defensively is unlikely, the defensive positions and forts are traditionally crewed by the legionnaires who are not skilled enough to be sent to the front lines.