A/N: The original version of this prologue was published on 20 February 2017, and the current version was published 30 March 2017. The existence of changes to any parts of the story will be noted at the beginning of any revised chapter. Words spoken in Dovahzul will be italicized in the story.

16th of Last Seed, 4E 202:
The Day the Dragonborn Disappeared

The Throat of the World

"Dii drog, Paarthurnax," Odahviing began, bowing before The Old One. "I am sorry to disturb your meditation, but I bring an urgent qolaas from our ears inside the Regency of Cyrodiil."

Paarthurnax lifted his head, as the Dragonborn continued his meditation. "What news do you bring, Odahviing?"

"The Moth Priests - they have deciphered a Kel - an Elder Scroll. They speak of a new Qostiid," Odahviing said.

The Dragonborn lifted his head at this news, interested in what Odahviing had brought to their attention.

"The Prophecy states that there will be an end to a great unifying Empire, after three threats of darkness pass in its third reigning era, a fourth will rise to end it."

The Dragonborn stood and turned to Odahviing, and asked, "They believe it to be a Prophecy stating the end of the Septim Empire? And what do they believe the cause will be?"

Odahviing stood still for a moment, apparently not wanting to bring the news. After taking a breath, he said, "The cause will be the rise to power of the most powerful being born on Nirn - more powerful than the one who brought unity to Tamriel. Many of the Council members believe it be you, Dovahkiin. They now seek to end your life, and will do anything to do what will keep them in du'ul."

The Dragonborn was in shock at the news. "But why would I be a threat to them? Have I not saved them with my own power those three times?"

Paarthurnax interrupted the Dragonborn, saying, "You remember what I once said to you, Dovahkiin? 'Dov wahlaan fah rel. We were made to dominate. The will to power is in our blood. You feel it in yourself, do you not?' You have the blood of domination, and it may be seen why these rulers would seek to rid themselves of the paranoia it causes."

Looking into Paarthurnax's eyes, the Dragonborn retorted, "Was it not also you that told me to be wary of following prophecy so closely?" The Dragonborn felt his anger rise, but Paarthurnax was still in absolute calm.

"I warned you, Dovahkiin, about trying to fulfill Qostiid for the simple reason of doing so. Qostiid sahlo aak. Do not become a tool of dez." Despite Paarthurnax's words, he saw the Dragonborn was still inflamed by the news of the Imperial action against him. "Krosis. You can understand that Qostiid is not an absolute guide better than these joor - for you have the dovah sos in you, Dovahkiin. But, I cannot help dreh do mey - the actions of fools."

The Dragonborn turned from the dragons, and looked down upon Skyrim, illuminated by the night sky. "Then I must go. I will not let myself be hunted. If they seek to kill me, let them try to find me. But I will not be there to give them the satisfaction of finding me, and I will outlast them in exile - for I must be able to return for the day I am needed once more, to maintain balance in our world."

With those words, The Last Dragonborn left The Throat of the World, and no man, woman, or dragon caught glimpse of him as he slipped from the world.