Morrowind Negotiations
Martin Septim now had a proper reception chamber. While he preferred things to be a little less formal, there were times where formality was needed. This was one of those times. The room was decorated in a manner fitting for royalty: purple carpets with gold lining, banners along the walls, ornate furniture. There was an ornate table in the middle of the room, with equally ornate chairs. Other tables lined the walls.
These tables currently had varieties of wine, as well as water. There was also an array of food, some local, some specifically from Morrowind, in order to make his guest feel more welcome.
Martin stood as the page announced his visitor. "My liege, I present to you First Councilor Lleril Morvayn of Morrowind."
"Councilor Morvayn," Martin bowed his head slightly.
Lleril repeated the gesture. "So, it's Martin, now, is it? You know, when I heard the illustrious Dragonborn was making a claim to the throne, I couldn't believe it. When I heard the Dragonborn was crowned Emperor, I still couldn't believe it. Then I received your invitation, and I still couldn't believe it. You've gone from being an influential member of my humble community to Emperor of Tamriel. How may I be of service?"
"I have a few ideas," Martin admitted, "but first, perhaps some refreshments?"
Lleril smiled in appreciation, but turned down the refreshments. Martin motioned to the table and the both sat.
"Before we start," Lleril began, "I think it's only fair that I tell you up front that the extent of my influence is-"
"-is growing now that the ebony mines are reopen." Martin interrupted with a smile. "Rumor has it that you are no longer dipping into your personal coffers to keep the city fed. Rumor also seems to indicate that you have the ear of Varvur Sarethi."
"Having his ear is one thing," Lleril said in admission. "Getting him to listen? That's another story. Councilor Sarethi may be the most important dunmer in Morrowind, but he is also old and set in his ways."
"Well, having the ear of the Emperor of Tamriel may give a little more weight to your words," Martin said.
Councilor Morvayn seemed a little surprised at that statement, but he recovered quickly.
"What I have to propose may seem a little odious some in Morrowind, given the recent history," Martin clarified.
"What, exactly, are you proposing?"
"I would like to integrate parts of the Redoran Guard into the Imperial Legion."
Councilor Morvayn looked surprised, again, only this time he didn't recover quite so quickly. "It's a good thing I passed on those refreshments, I think I would have just choked. I may be kicked off the Redoran Council for suggesting such a thing."
"I realize the empire has not treated the dunmer very well-"
"Not treated us well?" Lleril interrupted the emperor. "The empire abandoned us after the Oblivion Crisis. They abandoned us when the Red Mountain erupted. They abandoned us when the Argonians invaded. Need I go on?"
Martin was prepared for this. "Councilor…Lleril…I know full well how the Mede dynasty treated the Dunmer. The Mede dynasty all but destroyed the empire. It's only a pale shadow of what it once was. I am trying to restore what they ruined. Not just in territory, but in people and in relationships. You know me. You know what I've done for Raven Rock. You know what I've done for you personally. I am not a Mede. I am Dragonborn and I am a man of my word. I believe I have already proven myself to you."
Lleril Morvayn took a breath and nodded. "Of course. I owe you my life, but the council, while they have heard of your exploits, may not be able to differentiate you from the Medes. They see the Empire and they see Morrowind."
"What if our goals were more aligned?" Martin asked.
"What do you mean?"
"Well," Martin explained, "the Red Guard has become a formidable force. However, there are still part of Morrowind that have yet to be reclaimed or rebuilt, both on the mainland and on the Island."
"It's just a matter of time, before we reclaim what is rightfully ours," Lleril said proudly.
"I believe you," Martin replied. "I also believe that time could come much quicker with the Imperial Legion supporting you."
Lleril nodded slowly. He was starting to understand.
"When I tell you I am trying to restore the Empire, I mean it," Martin continued. "The Aldmeri Dominion is not supported by all Altmer or Bosmer. The dominion wants to rule all of Tamriel, and another war with them was bound to occur. However, I have already made strides in reuniting with Hammerfell. Once the Aldmeri Dominion is defeated, I will turn my attention to Black Marsh. I am sure your people would like to assist in that regard. I am also sure that the border could move a little bit to the south. What if Stormhold and Thorn were Dunmer cities?"
Lleril's eyes lit up. There had been talk on the council about taking some of the Argonian territory, but they were still divided over the issue. With Imperial support, especially a strengthened Empire, that could be a reality. "And for this, you would want our assistance against the Aldmeri Dominion? I think we can make a case for assisting the Legion, but integrating? I'm not sure."
Martin thought about Lleril's response for a moment before speaking. "Fair enough. What if I simply asked for the assistance of the Redoran Guard in fighting the Thalmor? Then I would return the favor by having the Imperial Legion assist you in reclaiming territory. Possibly even taking a little bit more in reparations."
Lleril smiled. "That would be something I might get some support for. I cannot make any promises, but I do think that at least gives us a better starting position. I'll head up and begin talks, if you have nothing else?"
"Actually," Martin said. "There is one more thing."
"Yes, my liege?"
"There is a Bosmer somewhere in Morrowind. He went by the name Malborn. He used to work for the Thalmor, until he helped me out a great deal. As a result of that help, his life was in danger and he fled. First to Windhelm in Skyrim, but then, I escorted him to the border of Morrowind and he disappeared. I owe my life to Malborn, and while I believe I repaid the debt I owe, I'd like to offer him the opportunity to return to his homeland."
"One Bosmer in all of Morrowind? You realize what that would be like," Lleril observed.
"Yes, it will be very difficult. Especially when this particular Bosmer thinks everyone is out to get him." Martin agreed. "However, this particular Bosmer could be very important. He could mean the difference between being seen as a liberator or a conqueror."
Lleril sighed. "Well, again, I cannot make any promises, but I will see what I can do."
"That's all I ask. Thank you."
"Of course, my liege. Is there anything else?"
Martin shook his head. "Nothing else right now. Thank you, Lleril, and good luck."
Propaganda
Palace, Arenthia
Niryi and Zeno were discussing the latest information. "They simply do not have the manpower for a prolonged conflict, and what they do have is spread dangerously thin." Zeno pointed out.
"So we lure them in to a protracted siege and wear them down?" Niryi asked.
"Surely you have the means to bypass any siege attempt." Zeno observed.
Niryi demurred for a moment, then admitted, "We do have tunnels that could be used to bring in necessary supplies, should they be needed. However, we are also fairly well stocked for a protracted siege of the city. That will give you the time you need to undercut the Emperor's reputation."
"And how am I to do that?" Zeno asked.
"Head back to Imperial City. Resume your position on the council. Use your position to spread information. You have connections, use them." Niryi was very direct.
"The Emperor has seen to it that my return would be problematic at best. Not to mention your own guards and the Thalmor soldiers may prevent my return." Zeno mused.
"The latter I can help with. You will leave at night, using one of the tunnels out of the city. My own guards will not hinder you. I doubt you'll have any trouble with the Thalmor soldiers. As for the former, you are resourceful. I trust you'll find a way." Niryi pointed out.
Zeno sighed. "Very well. I'll do as you ask, but when this is done…"
"Yes, yes…you will have a place in my administration, and an allowance. You will be fully compensated for your assistance to the Aldmeri Dominion." Niryi interrupted dismissively.
"When do I leave?"
"It would be best if you left before hostilities started. I imagine crossing the border will be nigh impossible once that happens. When you are ready, I will have one of my people show you the way out of the city so that you may leave unmolested."
Council
Martin was in what came to be known as the "War Room" in the palace. He was meeting with his council of advisers, which at this point consisted of his battlemage, Lornus and his new Praetor, Jonna. Esbern was also there, though his position was not official. Lydia was there as well, as she was never far from her Thane/Emperor.
Jonna had recovered from his recent illness and was glad to server his new Emperor, though not entirely pleased with his current plan. "My liege, please, reconsider the number of legions you take into Valenwood." The Praetor's tone was insisted, but respectful.
Martin was thoughtful. He did not want to dismiss the valuable advice he received, but he knew that having only one legion would work towards his advantage. Finally, he decided on a compromise. "How about this, Praetor Jonna," he said, using the full title out of admiration, "General Whitestone's Legion will be guarding against an attempted incursion across the river, or along the Gold Coast. What if we split his legion, had half visible and prepared to repel any invasion and half closer to Valenwood, ready to support either the troops taking Arenthia or any attempt at a landing near Anvil. General Laudis will also have his legion standing by to assist wherever needed."
Jonna wanted to push for more, but Martin held up his hand. "Hear me out, please. The Thalmor are arrogant and over-confident. They already believe they can defeat us. If I show up with only one Legion, they will likely be brash and make mistakes. Plus, I fully intend on some special allies showing up to assist us."
"And what of the city itself?" Jonna was not quite ready to give up just yet.
"Once we defeat the Thalmor in the field and approach the city, we will be joined by the Second Legion to take and hold it. The Third Legion can also move down and provide backup, if needed." Martin explained.
Jonna thought for a moment, rubbing his chin as he did so. "Three legions should be enough for a foothold in Valenwood. I'd prefer you start with all three, but perhaps keeping them spread out in the beginning and moving in as needed would be better. I am a little concerned that we are spread too thin. However, preventing a retaliatory incursion would be a wise thing to do. I do believe that the Thalmor will try to invade at multiple points. After all, that is what I would do. What of magic support?"
Lornus spoke up. "My Liege, the Mages Guild stands ready to support as needed. We have filled out the first three Legions and have more ready to defend the Imperial City, or be dispatched to backup any legion that requires it.
Martin was surprised. "That's a lot of result in a short time. How did you-"
"Convince the rest of the council?" Lornus interrupted. "Once word got out that the Thalmor would be invading any day now, their survival instincts kicked in." Lornus smiled.
Martin smiled as well. "Good. Good. Thank you, Lornus." He then addressed both the Battlemage and the Praetor. "Both of you will stay here and coordinate offensive efforts. I will lead from the field. Jonna, please work on conscripting enough troops for another legion or two, if you can. I realize it's a tall order, but we barely have enough to carry us now and once the fighting starts in earnest, we will need many replacements, so please do the best that you can and see how many more troops we can muster."
Jonna nodded.
"Lornus, please work with Jonna and ensure our legions have the proper support wherever it is needed."
Lornus nodded.
"Thank you, gentlemen. Lydia will be with me. Esbern will stay back on special assignment. The next few weeks will be rough, but we'll get through it. This is just the beginning. I have no doubt we will be victorious over the Aldmeri Dominion. Once we have reclaimed that land and her people, we will set our sights on the other territories that have rebelled, and eventually all Tamriel will be reunited."
Odahviing Returns
Martin was outside, at the very top of the White Gold tower. It was his favorite place, since returning to Cyrodiil. The view was nothing short of spectacular during the day, and at night, it was as if you could see every star in the sky.
A platform had been built over the parapets on the south side of the tower. It appeared to be sturdy in construction. Martin was about to find out just how sturdy. He places went to the north side of the tower, place his hands on the stone, leaned forward and let loose with his thu'um: Od…Ah…VIIG!
He waited a short while, before he hear the roars of not just one, but three different dragons.
Odaviing arrived, circled the tower, eyed the platform warily, and circled the tower again before landing on the platform. The wood creaked under the weight of the dragon, but the platform held.
The other two dragons hovered, one on either side of the Odahviing. One of them let loose a blast of fire. It hit Martin and staggered him briefly, but he recovered quickly.
"Krosis-" Odahviing began, but Martin held up a hand, faced the dragon and let loose.
"YOL!" A small burst of flames hit the dragon square in the face. The dragon roared in approval. Martin turned toward the other dragon and repeated the gesture. It, too, roared in approval of Martin's thu'um.
"They have tasted your thu'um and will fight by your side, Dovakiin," Odahviing said.
"That is good to know," Martin replied, "for war is upon us. Now, to our agreement. I've made no secret that I aim to reunite all of Tamriel. In the southwest there is a large island along with a second smaller island, surrounded by several smaller islanders. We call them the Summerset Isles. The large island is for you and your kind."
"You have honor and wisdom, Dovakiin. The climate may not be suitable for many of my kind, but I am sure there are those who will relish in having a land to call home. What of the current residents of these island?"
"They will either relocate, or go about their lives. I am confident that man, mer and dragon can co-exist. However, if any of them do become a threat, then you may do whatever is necessary to secure your land and protect your kind," Martin replied.
Odahviing eyed Martin warily. "You would sacrifice your own kind, Dovakiin?"
"No," Martin replied. "I am honoring our agreement. As I stated, I am confident that man, mer and dragon can co-exist. However, I also recognize that not all will feel as I do. That land is your land. If man or mer are willing to live peaceably, I ask that you allow them to. They will be under my protection. However, if any should try to make war on your kind, they forfeit that protection and you are free to deal with them as is necessary."
"And if the mer happen to be your enemies, Dovakiin?"
Martin smiled. He knew the wise, old dragon would see through his ploy. "If they refuse to coexist peacefully, then you do whatever is necessary to protect you and your kind. Enemy or ally, all who are there will have a choice. Coexist, or perish. That choice I leave up to them. If they choose to perish, I leave that up to you."
Odavhiing laughed, in the way that dragons do, "I understand. I will help you, nonetheless. Is the battle upon us?"
"The enemy have mobilized," Martin replied. "My troops are moving to meet them. I appreciate your help, and if I may be so bold-"
"Boldness is never something you are short on Dovakiin," Odahviing lauged again, again, in the way that dragons do.
Martin smiled. He turned towards Lydia, who had been standing there in silent awe the entire time. "Lydia, when the time comes, please take my horse and ride out to meet the legion." Then he turned towards Odahviing. "I have one more favor to ask."
Delphine's Fate
Martin was sitting in the antechamber of his own personal quarters. They were still pretty spartan, most of his personal belongings and nick-knacks were spread throughout his various houses in Skyrim. The austere nature of the room matched his mood. He was not looking forward to the conversation that he was about to have, but it was one that needed happen.
The knock on his door was right on schedule. Esbern was nothing if not punctual.
"Enter," Martin instructed
The door opened, revealing Esbern and Delphine.
Both entered and Delphine looked the Emperor over. "You've done well for yourself, Cadriel, or is it Martin now?" she said.
Martin eyed her warily. "Please, have a seat," he offered.
"Afraid to face me yourself, eh?" Delphine observed while she sat down, nodding her head to the corner where Lydia was standing.
Martin shook his head sadly. "You still think of me as your lackey, your errand boy. Before we met, you were stuck managing a dinky inn at a small village, hiding from the Thalmor. You acted put out when I asked you for the item you stole. Once I proved I am Dragonborn, you had me go to the Thalmor Embassy for some pretty dangerous espionage. During which, I discover that Esbern here was still alive. I went to Riften to get him out of the Ratway and brought him back to Riverwood, all while fighting Thalmor agents hunting me down. Then, I took both of you to Sky Haven Temple, which is not only guarded by bloodthirsty Forsworn, but would have been impossible to access without me. After which, you decided that you deserved to be Grandmaster. Then, after all I've done for you, you decided that I was to be banned from the Blades? Simply because I would not be your lackey anymore?"
"Lackey? Traitor is more like it. You betrayed-"
"Stop!" Martin interrupted Delphine. "I don't understand why you are so obstinate. You were young during the Great War. You don't fully appreciate what it was like to be a blade. You became fixated and obsessed with Dragons and forgot your true purpose. You lost your way, Delphine. In doing so, you betrayed the very order you sought to protect. How many imperial soldiers lost their lives due to your treachery? The only reason you are still alive is because Esbern here plead your case. He even suggested you would be a good spymaster. I'm not sure if I'm ready to trust you with that level of responsibility yet, but the real question I have for you is this: Are you willing to serve your emperor?"
Delphine was still defiant. "I don't recognize your authority as emperor. You may be Dragonborn, but you are not fit for the office you claim to hold."
Martin's eyes hardened. He closed them and let out a sigh. When he opened them, they were more sympathetic. "Do you not realize what you are doing to yourself? Yes, the blades started out as the Dragonguard and yes, their original mission was hunting dragons, but Tiber Septim made them so much more. They became not only his personal guard, but his eyes and ears all over Tamriel. I am going to restore the blades to their former glory, and I am offering you the opportunity to be a part of it. Are you so fixated on dragons that you are too blind to see what is being proffered?"
Delphine did not respond. Silence filled the room for a few minutes, until Esbern finally spoke, "Delphine, this is what you and I have both waited many years to see, the restoration of our order. You are not only being offered the opportunity to be a part of it, but to shape it."
Delphine shook her head, "Not by forsaking our old ways, my friend. Our illustrious emperor not only refused to kill the most evil, vile dragon to ever live, he allies himself with dragons, our sworn enemies. He claims to rebuild the blades, but has destroyed our history."
Martin shook his head sadly. "I wish I could make you understand, Delphine, but you are too blinded by hate. Perhaps someday that will change, but for now, I have no choice but to officially expel you from the order. Effective immediately, all rights and privileges you experience as a member of the blades are hereby revoked."
"You can't do that!" Delphine shouted. "I AM the blades!"
It was Esbern's turn to shake his head sadly. "No, Delphine. You may have carried the torch for many years, but you lost your way. I hope someday you find it again, and I will always be here to help you, should you desire it."
"What will become of me, then?" Delphine asked.
"Normally, I would simply release you and let you carry on with life," Martin replied. "However, you have already betrayed me, the empire and the legion once. You've proven you'll throw in with the Thalmor in order to pursue your own ends. As we are about to go to war with them, in large part due to your own actions, I simply cannot run the risk of you betraying us again. You will be placed in the Imperial Prison, for at least as long as the war lasts."
"What? You can DO that!" Delphine remained defiant.
Martin sighed again. "Guards." Martin called. They were waiting outside and quickly opened his door. "Please take Delphine to the Imperial Prison. She is to remain there until I give the order otherwise, understood?"
"Yes, sire!" the guards responded as they led Delphine away.
Esbern had a sad look on his face. "I really thought she would come around. I'm not sure why she is so fixated on dragons. Still, do you think sending her to the Imperial Prison is the right thing to do?"
"Like I said, Esbern, I can't risk her betraying me or the Empire to the Thalmor again."
"Can we at least make her comfortable?" Esbern requested
"Sure," Martin replied. "See to it that she is as comfortable as possible. Whatever she needs, within reason of course."
"Thank you, sire," Esbern said. He then rose to leave and see to Delphine's needs.
Martin and Lydia were left alone in his antechamber.
"Do you think I was too hard on Delphine?" Martin asked.
Lydia demurred at first.
"Don't hold back," Martin directed. "Let me have your honest thought on the matter, please."
Lydia thought for a moment more before responding. "You stuck your neck out for Delphine a lot. She's gone from being an inn keeper on the run to being the head of a new order of Blades, and that wouldn't have happened were it not for you. How does Delphine thank you? She demands that you go kill the only dragon who has helped you in your quest to defeat Alduin, the one who's peaceful and treats you like a brother, and then she refused to help or even speak with you until you did so. Then she betrayed you to the Thalmor. Even now, after all you've done for her, Delphine acts like she holds all the cards and refuses to help you in any way. No, if anything you were too easy on her."
Martin leaned back in his chair and let out a long sigh. "I just…like Esbern, I'm surprised…I just…I mean…I thought she'd come around. Where did I go wrong?"
"You've helped out a lot of people. You've made a lot of friends and a lot of allies. You've also made some enemies. Not everyone is going to see things like you do, and not everyone is going to come around to your point of view."
Martin stared at Lydia for a moment. He was surprised by her insight. He smiled at her.
Lydia smiled back. "Know this, that while you have your enemies, you have those who are willing to lay down their lives for your cause, and…for you."
"Thank you, Lydia. That…that means a lot." Martin rose from his chair and started moving towards her when there was a loud, fierce banging on his door. Martin went and opened it up and saw a messenger, out of breath.
"My Lord, the Thalmor. They're on the move."
"Very well. Dispatch messengers to each of the legions. Have the stable prepare my horses and then get yourself some food and rest." Martin commanded.
"It will be done, my Lord."
War was about to begin.
Author's Note: The reactions towards Delphine were pretty strong. I used to think I was the only one who thought she was stubborn and arrogant, but apparently quite a few people feel that way as well. There may be hope for her yet, but I think sitting in prison is appropriate for her. I've received some good suggestions on what to call the war, so thank you. I'm still taking suggestions for now. When I post the next chapter, I'll list out the top three and you all can vote on it. Thanks again for the support and encouragement. As always, if you notice issues, please do not hesitate to message me and let me know. :)
