OOC:
Setting the scene in Solitude. Sorry for text wall, just wanted to explain what the situation in Haafingar is, as it's kind of complicated. also
@wreckem_all Hello new friend!
A light snowfall descended upon the noisy, run down streets of Solitude as laborers and citizens, new and old, set about the long and arduous process of rebuilding the once shining jewel of Solitude.
After the passing of Elsif the Fair, Solitude descended into anarchy. With no true authority, the nobles of Solitude began a bloody power play to try and wrest control of the ancient city for themselves. This resulted in gruesome street wars between each nobles personal guard in the streets. The citizens were forced to watch as their beloved home fell to the worst kinds of violence. Shops were looted, men beaten. Children were whisked away in the dead of night, and woman were subject to awful harassment and violation. When it seemed the death knell of the city was ready to ring, the most unlikely of things occurred, a fleet from the East Empire Trade Company docked in the harbor, and warriors from High Rock marched into the city. Any of the noble’s guards who resisted were swiftly put down, while the regular citizenry was largely left alone, protected from the violence. At the front of this relatively small foreign army was a Breton noble, armored in runic Witchplate, wielding white ebony longsword that glowed with sapphire flames, and a simple circlet encompassed his head. He was Rolard Seton, the self-proclaimed King of Solitude.
While the nobles were infuriated at the intrusion, the citizenry were ecstatic, for the most part. Finally there was one who would some semblance of order. And that’s what Rolard did. Well, he attempted to do it anyways. While most of the citizenry were quite pleased with simply having peace, many Nords were agitated by the fact that a Breton now ruled over High Rock. Sure, he had tried to assure them that their ancient rights would be protected, seeing foreign soldiers patrol the Hold wasn’t exactly reassuring.
To add on top of the list of issues, the nobles of Solitude still stirred trouble against their new lord. Namely Vittoria Vicci, Bryling, and Erikur. Unfortunately, Rolard couldn’t just have them executed or banished. Lady Bryling ran some mines that brought sorely needed raw materials to the healing kingdom. Lord Erikur had multiple financial contracts and trade deals, and now that the violence was over could ensure that money once more flows into the city. Lady Vicci, simply had to strong of ties to the Empire, with her being related to Mede and all. The last thing he needed was an Imperial Legion marching on the gates.
Luckily the Divines showed mercy upon the fledgling ruler. Many of his father’s banner-men eagerly followed their new Lord, due to simple loyalty and hopefully new land and glory. The first and greatest of his banner-men was House Valtien. One of house Seton’s most trustworthy allies, Valtien didn’t even hesitate when Rolard called for his support. He brought with him the heavily armed and armored Valtien Frostswords, armed to the teeth with steel armor and heavy weaponry. Then there was the more numerous House Amerd. While Amerd wasn’t the most courageous man, he was ambitious, and saw a chance for great power and prestige in establishing a new kingdom. His troops were lightly armed and armored, making them excellent skirmishers, and became Rolard’s Rangers. House Laerush owed a blood debt to House Seton after having their county be saved by Seton’s army in the past. So he brought his people, and his swift cavalry forces, known as the strikers, lightly armored, but packed a fierce punch. The last house to follow him was small, and brought less than 50 people. House Elbien, A noble family compromised of mostly magic users. They relied on Seton’s protection, and so lent their services to him.
Lastly, there was the Knights of the Flame themselves. Disgusted by the butchery of the former Lords of Akaire, they swore fealty to House Seton, supplementing his army with heavy mounted knights. A fine army, but not large in size. Barely enough to maintain control of Haafingar. Each banner-men was appointed a slot of land. Lord Valtien was given lordship of Dragon Bridge. Amerd, became lord of Fort Hraggstad and woods around it. Lord Laerush was given lordship of Northwatch Keep. House Elbien was stationed in Pinefrost Tower, away from the scrutinizing Nords, and protected by a squadron of House Seton guards. Meanwhile the Knights of the Flame were given Proudspire manor as their chapterhouse, and became a kind of royal guard to King Seton.
And now, here he was, standing in the courtyard of Castle Dour, watching over his assembled banner-men, and the gathering locals of Haafingar. At the top of the stairs leading to the grand temple, King Seton addressed his new subjects.
“
Dear citizens of Solitude, of Haafingar! I know the sorrows and tribulations you have gone through. Many of you have lost family! Your city lies in ruins! All of Skyrim stands divided, once friendly neighbors now wolves, prowling at the boundary of your borders!” His voice resonated across the courtyard, and he could see his men take pride in their leaders commanding presence, and had gained the rapt attention of the populace.
“
I’m here to tell you now that this is at an end! The violence that threatened your fair city is over, the power hungry nobility curbed. Your borders are safe, protected by the blood and steel of Breton and Nordic warriors, standing under one banner! Already Solitude looks to be the Jewel of Skyrim once more!” At this citizens began to cheer, throwing their fists in the air.
“
Solitude endures!” Some cried out in unison. However not all were thrilled!
“
And what of the fact that a foreigner now sits on the throne of the Blue Palace?” Rolard turned his attention to wear the gruff voice came from. Captain Aldis, captain of the Solitude Guard. He was a good man, who tried his best to protect the citizenry of Solitude during the Reign of Anarchy. Being a traditional Nord, he hated the thought of having a foreigner on the throne.
“
I understand your fears and frustrations Captain Aldis. I know what it is like to lose your home to strangers.” Rolards voice became a bit more gentle, as painful memories began to seep into his mind.
“I know that no words that can sway, nor should they, but I give my word that the traditions of the mighty people of Atmora shall be preserved. All rites and customs shall be honored, you will be full citizens, treated the same as any Breton. Most importantly, I will ensure the worship of Talos be protected!”
At this a great uproar was heard from the crowd, Bretons and Nords alike cheering at the words. There were a few tear even, as it seemed the worst was finally past for them. They could rebuild, they could live. They could thrive. With that done, Rolard gave a small bow to his subjects, and proceeded to the Blue Palace. Solitude couldn’t heal and thrive if they were beset on by ambitious neighbors. He was followed by his Brother Vaynar and sister Ellia, his Housecarl and Steward respectively.
“
Well spoken brother, the people find hope in your words.” Ellia spoke softly, moving swiftly at his side. “The noble’s gather to discuss our plans to secure Haafingar.
“
We also have a potential ally to assist us in our plans, he is a Thane of Solitude.” His brother spoke up now, his gruff voice a stark contrast to his silver tongue and his sisters gentle tone.
“
Who is this man then?” Rolard had just about had it with bloody Thanes. Two of them were responsible for all the bloodshed and the anarchy. He hoped the third wouldn’t be of the same stock.
At his brothers question, his demeanor grew a bit darker, and his words dripped out with a bit of annoyance, “
Ugdul Sharga… An Orsimer. He will be here to meet you shortly."
Rolard couldn’t help but twist his face in disgust and anger.
An Orc as my Thane? Stendarr have mercy, just what I need, another problem.
“
Let’s just get this done.” The king growled as he entered the throne room, where the nobles of Solitude and his banner-men gathered. Now all’s he needed was that Orc.