War Council

There were four Imperial Legion generals sitting around the table, when the Emperor walked in with Legate Hadvar. One of the general recognized Hadvar, stood and greeted him.

"Greetings Auxiliary, it's been a while. It is good to see you well."

"Thank you, General," Hadvar replied. "It's Tribune now, but it is good to see you."

"Actually, it is Legate Hadvar," Martin intervened. "Effective immediately, he is Adjutant to General Tullius. He will stand here in the General's stead."

The generals all nodded in acceptance. Emperor Septim and Legate Hadvar took a seat at the table.

"I'm not a diplomat or a politician, so you will have to forgive my bluntness, but there is a good chance the Empire will be renewing hostilities with the Aldmeri Dominion."

"Because of Talos?" One of the Generals, an imperial, asked. "Could we not just keep the Eight and keep the peace?"

"Bite your tongue General," one of his Nord compatriots snapped. "They're only bitter because Talos defeated them in battle. The decision was a political one, not a religious one. Worse, it was a political decision made by a man who had no connection to the dragonblood."

"Generals," the Emperor cut in. "Regardless of what happened in the past, Talos is one of the Nine Divines. Even if I were to make the same political decision, he would still be one of the Nine, just worshiped underground. The Thalmor can complain all they want, but they cannot undo the apotheosis Tiber Septim underwent. He was accepted by the pantheon and he will forever remain one of the Nine Divines. If the Aldmeri Dominion wish to go to war over it, then we will not only meet them on the field of battle, we will not only beat them in battle, we will repeat Talos' feat and drive them back into the sea!"

The Generals cheered at Martin's impromptu speech. However the cheer was short live as the Emperor asked about the status of the legions.

"We have ten legions, my lord and none of them are at full strength. With the Empire reduced so drastically, finding replacements is tough."

"Very well. We'll reorganize into five legions. I want word sent to Skyrim that Tullius is being recalled immediately, with as many men as he can bring back. Legate Rilke will be promoted to General and take command of the remaining forces. Also, the Penitus Oculatus will be folded into the legion, effectively immediately. General Rilke will command the outpost in Skyrim. The rest will be folded into the legions as you all see fit."

"That will suffice, my lord, but what of your personal guard?" One of the Generals asked.

"Tribune Lydia will be in charge of my personal guard. She'll recruit from the Imperial Legion and former Penitus Oculatus."

That statement sent shockwaves around the table.

"My lord, are you…?" One of the generals could not bring himself to ask the question.

The Emperor smiled. "Did you not see my retinue during my entry to the city? Recognize the armor they were wearing?" Then he got serious, "That is all I will say about it for now and not a word is to be repeated, are we clear?"

The generals all nodded.

"Good, bring me your proposal for reorganizing our Legions by tomorrow, and start doubling your training efforts. The Thalmor may wish to talk, or they may simply invade. Are there any further questions?" There were none and the Emperor dismissed his Generals.

Hammerfell Returns

"Your Eminence, may I announce Elnath Nazari, Ambassador from Hammerfell," the Page announded.

"Elnath Nazari, Master Ambassador from Hammerfell, I bid thee welcome," Martin began. "Please allow me to begin by offering my most sincere and humble apologies for the way Hammerfell has been treated by the Empire. I offer apologies on behalf of Tamriel, Cyrodiil and myself, Emperor Martin Septim II."

The Ambassador smiled slightly and replied, "My lord, pray forgive me if I am too bold in my request, but it is has been said you speak your mind plainly. May I request, my lord, that I be able to speak frankly with you."

Martin smiled slightly himself, let out what could be considered a small sigh of relief and motioned to a chair. "Please Mr. Ambassador, what's on your mind."

"If it please you, call me Elnath. I've come to see if it is possible to repair relations."

"Thank you, Elnath. My apology, while perhaps flowery, was sincere and true. I believe Tamriel needs Hammerfell, and I believe Hammerfell needs Tamriel. I personally am appalled at how things went down under my predecessor and am committed to helping your people."

"That is encouraging my lord, and a good first step, but it will take more than words, I fear, if you are truly serious."

Martin nodded and motioned to Lydia. Lydia disappeared for a moment and returned with a page carrying a small chest. The page placed it before Elnath and opened it.

"That is 100,000 Septims," Martin said. "A gift to the people of Hammerfell to assist with your restoration. A small token of our apology and indication of our desire to reconcile our peoples to each other."

"Thank you, my lord, but the devastation to our land is vast," Elnath hinted.

Martin smiled. "As I said, this is a gift, yours to take back, regardless of the outcome of our talks. That being said, we would be happy to help in the continuing restoration of your land not as allies, but as brothers once again."

"So, you don't just want reconciliation, you wish for Hammerfell to be part of the Empire again." It was a statement, more than a question, but the two were moving past the diplomat speak and talking frankly, one man to another.

"Yes," Martin replied. "You were greatly mistreated, I cannot deny that. Nor can I really make up for it. What I can do, is invite you back to the Empire and help you rebuild your land, undo the devastation that was caused when my predecessor abandoned you."

"And what would you require from us?" Elnath asked.

"No requirements. Upon an agreement, all citizens of Hammerfell would immediately be considered citizens of the Empire. Damage to Hammerfell would be considered damage to the Empire and we would see to repair it as quickly and as faithfully as possible. It is…hoped, that soldiers of Hammerfell would consider themselves soldiers of the Empire."

"Ahh…now we get to the heart of it, don't we." Elnath smiled.

"We both have great needs, and neither of those great needs are a secret to anyone in Tamriel." Martin pointed out.

"It is true," Elnath agreed. "We do need help in restoring our land, and youre legions still have not recovered from the so called 'Great War' with the Aldmeri Dominion. I appreciate your frankness, my lord."

"And I yours, Elnath. There are many other ways we can help each other, but if we can agree on those two big points, the little ones should easily fall into place. It is my hope that in time, the pain of our past actions can be overcome, and we can take small steps as we move forward, but in principle you are in agreement?"

"Yes, my lord," Elnath replied. "Please allow me to return to my government and inform them of our progress."

"Of course. When you return, my ministers will work with you on the details, but please do not hesitate to call on me at any time." Martin rose and so did Elnath. They bowed to each other, and then Elnath took the chest and left for his homeland.

The Silver Fox

This was probably Martin's least favorite part of becoming emperor. Everyone wanted to pay their respects, from the highest noble to the lowest merchant. He sat through it all, smiled, received well wishes and even bestowed blessings when asked. Nobody had made any requests yet, but he was sure once his throne was firmly established that would be the case as well.

There was one merchant in particular who surprised him. The merchant came and gave a deep, respectful bow. On his way up, he was sure to make eye contact, ever so briefly and whispered, "Shadow hide you." Once he was fully erect, he said out loud, "May the Nine bless you richly, my Liege."

"Thank you," Martin replied. "And you as well. Tell me, what shop do you manage?"

"Ahh, t'is but a humble tavern on the waterfront, my Liege, it is called The Silver Fox. Sure the Tiber Septim Hotel is more to your liking. I am merely here to pay my respects."

"And you mine, good sir, thank you."

"My liege." The merchant bowed and made a respectful exit.

The Silver Fox, late that evening

Martin was wearing common clothes and a worn, hooded cloak. Lydia was with him, and also wearing a hooded cloak, only she had her blades armor and an ebony sword hidden beneath hers. The pair made their way to the main counter. The merchant from earlier in the day was serving wiping the counter in between serving drinks.

He looked up when he saw Martin and Lydia, "Welcome travelers! I'm sure the journey was long, your throats must be parched."

"Actually, we are just about to begin our journey. We find nocturnal travel to be much more quiet and peaceful. We are looking for food before we leave."

"Of course, if you'll follow me, I'll show you some of our best meats. I keep them in the basement so they don't spoil."

Martin nodded and both he and Lydia started to follow the merchant.

"Forgive me good sir, but surely you can choose her meats for her?" The merchant asked nervously.

"Alas, I'm afraid my companion knows me far better than I know her." Martin replied.

The merchant understood and led them both into the basement. He took them past the shelves of food and hooks with hanging meat to a locked door. He pulled out an ornate key and unlocked the door. After he led them through, he closed and locked the door.

The room was more ornate than one would expect in the basement of a waterfront tavern, but even then, Martin's eyes were drawn to a bust with a cowl on it. "Nocturnal's Cowl?"

"The Gray Cowl of Nocturnal, symbol of the Gray Fox. Yes, it is. For centuries the Gray Fox was the leader of the Thieves' Guild here in Cyrodiil. Even after the curse was broken, the Gray Fox was our leader. My predecessor had since let the Gray Fox fade into legend, however the Cowl is still a symbol of office and the title for the Master of the Thieves' Guild. Speaking of which, if my understanding is correct, you lead more than just Tamriel?"

"I see your network is just as good as ours," Martin said.

The Gray Fox laughed. "Not hardly, not like it was, but Delvin sent word of what your intentions were and asked that we look after you. He thought you mad, you know."

It was Martin's turn to laugh. "Yes, I know. He actually fell out of his chair when I announced my intentions." Martin then turned serious. "Your network though. It is lacking?"

"In Cyrodiil, you will find none better. However, beyond our province our reach is limited. Guilds in different provinces have always operated autonomously, but the past few decades have made collaboration dangerous."

Martin nodded. "I know. I myself was actually arrested, simply for crossing from Cyrodiil into Skyrim. That is something I aim to fix. If you please, send word to Delvin and Vex that my crazy plan was a success and I aim to less the dangers for cross-border collaboration. Nothing will change for individual guilds, but I think all would benefit from the sharing of information."

"As you and Tamril would as well, I'd gather," The Gray Fox observed.

"Now I know why you are the Master in Cyrodiil," Martin said with a smile.

The Gray Fox returned the smile. "I will gladly send word to Skyrim on your behalf and then we will simply standby and operate as normal. We are at your service."

"Much obliged. As you can imagine, it will be difficult for me to make many trips here. Lydia is my most trusted companion. You may expect to see her as a regular customer. Occasionally, she may have a special order for you." Martin instructed.

"We aim to please all our customers."

Martin let out a hearty laugh in reply. "We must take our leave then."

"Of course, my liege. Walk it the Shadows."

The Reckoning

Martin awoke suddenly and remained still. He was not alone. This was not entirely unexpected, but he was a little surprised it was happening so soon. A dagger slid over his face, from his forehead to his chin. He remained motionless until the last second, when he reached up with both hands, grabbed the wrist, sat up, twisted and flipped the would-be assassin over his shoulder and onto the bed, twisting the assassin's arm so that his dagger was at his own throat.

"I see fine living has not dulled your senses. This makes Cicero happy. Yes, happy in deed! Shall we dance to celebrate happiness?"

Cicero was dressed in the Dark Brotherhood's Shrouded Armor, instead of his usual fare. However, there was no mistaking his voice.

"Cicero? Were you sent here to kill me?"

"Kill you? Why would Cicero kill you? You spared me, my life is yours…and our sweet mother's. Blood must be spilled to keep her happy though. The ritual demands blood be spilled. The Dread Father needs his soul. The ritual demands a soul. Father and Mother must be appeased. Blood must be spilled and a soul must be sent."

"Someone performed the Black Sacrament? For me?" Martin asked.

"Do you not listen to what Cicero says? Your reflexes are sharp, but maybe your sense is dull?"

Martin pushed Cicero off the bed and Cicero laughed. Martin shook his head, but smiled as he said, "Cicero, tell Nazir that I received the message and those who performed the Sacrament will themselves become the offering."

"Oh yes, happy indeed. Cicero laughs at the irony. Cicero delivers your message. Nazir is happy to have the Listener as Emperor. New Sanctuaries, perhaps? Cicero can be speaker, perhaps. Cicero is happy to serve our sweet, sweet mother."

"Rest assured my happy friend, the Dark Brotherhood will be restored to its former glory. The Black hand will become a symbol of fear throughout the empire."

Cicero got up, did a little jig and disappeared through the window, leaving Martin alone with his thoughts. He knew that some on the Elder Council would seek his assassination. Little did they know that they were calling for the assassination of the Listener. It would mean their demise. They acted quicker than he thought they would, but that was ok, Martin was ready to face them.

Martin went over to his door, opened and called for a guard.

"Yes, my liege, how may I serve?" The guard inquired.

"Go wake Ocato. Tell him it is most urgent and bring him to my quarters. Immediately."

"Of course, my liege." The guard left and returned with Ocato a moment later.

Martin wasted no time. He dismissed the guard and addressed Ocato. "Apologies for waking you at such an hour, but my fears have been realized sooner than I anticipated."

Ocato was still shaking off the sleep, but became instantly alert. "You mean?"

"A Dark Brotherhood assassin just slid a dagger across my face. I have fought him off, but that means someone has performed the Black Sacrament. I imagine the same group of councilors responsible for assassinating my predecessor."

"I shall triple the guard, my lord. And the council will be arrested and questioned at once. I shall see to it personally."

"No. The Dark Brotherhood are exceptionally skilled. No amount of guards can stop them. They are masters of stealth. They won't stop until blood is spilled. They do not care if it is mine or initiator of the sacrament. I aim to ensure they get their blood and that it's not mine."

"How shall we proceed then?"

"Arrange a meeting with Elder Council. I will address them tomorrow. The traitors will be exposed and dealt with. I will do so in front of the council so that if there is any further doubt among any of them, it will be removed."

Elder Council, later that morning

The entire elder council was assembled in their main chamber. Being addressed by the Emperor was not unusual, but the lack of notice was. Most of the councilors had barely finished their breakfast and speculation was rampant.

Speculation was interrupted by the page. "Councilors, I present Martin Septim II, Emperor of Tamriel."

The council was silent and rose in respect of the Emperor. Martin went to the head chair and motioned for them to be seated. He himself remained standing as he addressed the council.

"Honored councilors, I thank you for assembling on such short notice. I bring news as dire as it is grave. You all know the fate that befell Emperor Titus Mede II. Last night the same fate nearly befell his predecessor. However, that is not what concerns me. I am neither old nor frail, and I am capable of preventing the Dark Brotherhood from accomplishing its mission. What concerns me are those were behind the Dark Brotherhood."

"That is most troubling news, my lord, but pray tell, what does that have to do with us?" one of the councilors asked.

Martin reached into his robe and pulled out the amulet that belong to Amaund Motierre. There were gasps around the table. "I present this amulet as proof for who was behind the assassination of Titus Mede II. Before his death, Mr. Motierre admitted to hiring the Dark Brotherhood. He also admitted that he was not alone. I aim to find his accomplices, not only to seek justice for my predecessor, but also to ensure that I don't spend every night killing Dark Brotherhood assassins."

Zeno Mor rose "My Lord, I would speak with you in private. Please, my Lord."

"Zeno, Silence! Return to your seat," one of the other councilors ordered.

"No," Zeno replied. I felt the full force of this Thu'um. I will not face his wrath."

Martin motioned to Ocato, who called over some guards and issued orders. "Arrest those two and seal the room. Nobody enters or leaves without my say."

High Chancellor Gavurus jumped to his feet in outrage. "This is preposterous! I will not be treated like a common criminal!"

Ocato looked at Martin, who nodded. Ocato then motioned toward the High Chancellor and the guard arrested him as well.

All three of the prisoners were marched out of the main chamber into a small side room. Martin and Ocato followed. The rest of the councilors were left to wonder what just happened.

"Alright, Zeno, spit it out." Martin ordered.

"My lord, I fully confess to being in league with Amaund. If it please you to spare my life, I can name the others."

"And of my visitor last night?"

"I'm afraid I know nothing of that, my lord, but one of the names I give you might."

Before Martin could respond, the other council pulled a dagger from his robe and made for Zeno. Martin let loose with this Thu'm, "Fus…Ro…DAH!" The councilor flew backwards into the wall. His head smacked against the stone and he fell to the floor, unconscious. Gavurus remained seated, stoically.

"Well, Zeno, I know one of your conspirators. Maybe two. High Chancellor?"

"Please, like you can do anything to me. I am untouchable." Gavurus replied. "Not only will you refrain from arresting me, you will return me to the council chamber where I will resume my duties as High Chancellor."

"No," Martin replied. "We will do no such thing. You will face charges of treason and your body will swing out in the city as a warning."

Gavurus actually laughed. "You have no idea of the forces you are dealing with."

"Oh Please," Martin said, "I already fought off one Dark Brotherhood assassin, you really think I can't fight off another?"

"You don't know they types of creatures they employ. Last night was but a warning. Astrid works for me. One word and she will send your worst nightmare." Gavurus boasted.

Martin wanted to break out in a hearty laugh, but he composed himself. "Clear the room," he said. "Everyone but Zeno, out."

Ocato and the guards left. Martin stared at Gavurus, who remained seated, stoic as ever.

"Tell me, oh Gavurus the Great, would that be a vampire named Babette or the shadowscale, Veezara?"

The first crack began to show in Gavurus' stoicism. Marin pulled out his dagger, an ebony dagger by the look of it, although this one was special. "Recognize this?" he asked.

"It's an ebony dagger, hardly intimidating," Gavurus put up a good front still.

"It's called the Blade of Woe," Martin said as he moved closer to Gavurus. "Know where I got it from?"

Gavurus started to look concerned.

Martin continued to move closer as he spoke. "I took it off of Astrid's charred, dead corpse. She was not the true leader of the Dark Brother, but a pretender. The Dark Brotherhood is lead by the Glorious Night Mother. Always has and always will."

Gavurus was starting to look worried and for good reason. Martin was right up in his face, dagger pressed against his neck. "The Night Mother speaks through a Listener, my dear Gavurus, and you know what? I AM her Listener!"

There was now a look of utter fear on Gavurus' face. "No, please, my Liege, I can…I can explain," he stammered.

"No, I will explain, Gavurus. The Black Sacrament was completed. The Night Mother demands blood. Sithis, the Dark Lord himself, requires a soul to serve him."

"No, please, my lord-" Gavurus did not complete the sentence, Martin slit his throat with the Blade of Woe and his body crumpled to the floor. Martin cleaned it on his robe and turned to Zeno. "Who else was in on the conspiracy?" He asked.

After watching and listening to what had just transpired, Zeno was fully cooperative. "My liege, there were five of us. Gavurus and Amaund you know. Lazeera here was another. The fifth conspirator was Lothan Silvermane."

"That is all of you?" Martin asked, with a slight edge in his voice.

"Yes, my liege. Please, I beg you, spare me, I fully confess to being in on the conspiracy with Titus Mede, but I knew nothing of the plot against you, lord, I swear it!"

"Swear on your very soul?" Martin asked.

"Yes, lord, on my very soul."

Martin thought for a moment and then made a decision, he put the dagger to Zeno's throat. "Your life is my to do with as I please, yes?"

"Yes, lord," Zeno said as he closed his eyes and waited for the inevitable.

Martin pulled the dagger away. "Open your eyes." Zeno complied and looked at him. "Good. You will swear a blood oath of fealty to me. You will remain on the council, but you will serve me. Fail in your oath or in your service and your life is forfeit."

The relief Zeno felt was palpable. "Of course, my liege. I will serve up to the moment of my death."

Give me your hand," Martin ordered. Zeno complied. Martin sliced Zeno's hand and then sliced his own. He clasped Zeno's hand tightly, "Swear on your life to serve me for all your days on Nirn."

"I swear it, my Liege." Zeno replied.

Martin healed both of their hands and gave Zeno his instructions. "Call in the guards, tell them Gavurus attacked me. They heard his confession, they will bury him in an unmarked plot."

"And what of Councilor Silvermane?" Zeno asked.

"Allow him to think he is in clear. Then tonight, you are to kill him in his sleep. Make it look like the Dark Brotherhood."

Zeno stood and bowed. "It will be done as you say, my Liege."

Ocato and the guards were back in the room a moment later. Lazeera was regaining consciousness just in time to be arrested by the guards. He initially tried to protest, but when he saw Gavurus' body, all the fight went out of him.

Back in the main chamber, Martin addressed the Elder Council. "My lords and ladies, Zeno Mor has performed an act of courage and bravery unseen since the Great War. He uncovered the conspiracy, not only for my life, but for many of your lives as well. High Chancellor Gavuras was the head of the conspiracy. Upon learning that Dark Brotherhood failed, he attempted to finish the job himself. As a result, he is dead, just like his conspirator Mr. Motierre. The other will be arrested, tried and live out his remaining days in the Imperial Prison."

The chamber erupted in applause. Even Councilor Silvermane gave a hearty applause. Martin only glanced at him briefly as his eyes went around the room.

"We need a new High Chancellor," Martin continued. "I know you have your procedures and your seniority, but given recent events, I would humbly request you all allow me to make the nomination."

There was some murmering around the table until Zeno spoke up, "Fellow councilors, hear me! While we have all been betrayed, it is our Emperor who was betrayed the most. It was our emperor who nearly lost his very life! I move we allow him to make the nomination, if for nothing else than to restore faith in the council, from the emperor and from the public."

His words won over enough of the councilors, they granted Martin's request. Martin nominated Ocato, and while there was a little consternation with the nomination, they all desired to protect their own reputations enough that they allowed the nomination and voted in favor.

Tamriel not only had a new Emperor, it also had a new High Chancellor. High Chancellor Ocato.

Author's Note: I appreciate the reviews and support. I am trying to keep the story within the greater Elder Scrolls lore. Although, I admit, I will take a few liberties where needed to move the story along. I personally did not like the divided Empire in Skyrim, so this story's overarching goal will be to restore the Empire and its guilds to their former glory. As always, if you notice errors in the story or in the lore, please do not hesitate to message me.