Dragonborn Rising Ch. 64

There was an audible gasp when he stated that the throne should not pass to either of his sons. Tullius then admitted that it wouldn't be a problem. That the situation had been 'handled'. No-one dared mutter words like 'murder' in his presence, but there was definitely some discomfort as the insinuation was clear.

Then it came to his succession plan.

"It is my belief that the Empire requires the start of a new era. Though our family has tried it's best to restore the Empire to its former glory, it is clear to me that we have failed in that objective. For two hundred years, we have witnessed the Empire slowly crumble to what it is now. It is only due to Divine intervention, the arrival of the Dragonborn, that our Empire remains somewhat united to this day.

Those who know their history are aware that every Septim was of the dragon blood, all the way from Tiber Septim himself. It is my belief that someone of the dragon blood must be restored to the Ruby Throne, and that it will be through their sheer force of will that they will see the Empire rise back to what it once was. The road will be long and difficult, with innumerable challenges to be faced, and while the Dragonborn might not be a Septim, even carrying that name might have proven a poisoned chalice.

But, to your Emperor, the way forward is now clear. Ragnar Dragonborn should have your support to become the new Emperor, opening the Fifth Era with clear focus and intention. Secure the borders of the Empire. Restore order and security. Open up new alliances and allegiances. Build the armies and navies to their former glories. And then, when the time is right, strike back at those who attacked us.

Bless the Divines.

Praise almighty Talos.

Your Emperor, Titus Mede II."

There was nothing but silence for a couple of minutes before most eyes looked at me. I stood up and looked around the rooms. My fellow Jarls looked pleased. The lords and ladies of Cyrodiil actually looked a little fearful. The ambassador of High Rock met my eyes and nodded his approval. Bet that was due to be married to a Breton.

"Lords and ladies of Tamriel, the Emperor and I have enjoyed many discussions since the day I took the throne of Skyrim to become it's High King. In the past fortnight, we discussed many options going forward. What General Tullius read out is but a smidgen of what Emperor Titus and I discussed in his final days before returning to the Divines. What I do know is this. The Legions of the Empire support the decision. General Tullius, do I have the support of the Legions?"

"Yes, lord. The word has already spread. The Imperial Legion support the claim of the Dragonborn to the Ruby Throne. If required, it will fight to ensure your succession."

Placing my hands on the table, I looked around. "I do not wish to fight any of you. I would like to believe that my fellow Jarls support the Emperor and his decision."

Balgruuf immediately cleared his throat. "I'm sure I can speak for all my fellow Jarls that we support the succession of the Dragonborn to the Ruby Throne." Every other Jarl nodded their head or even applauded.

"Lords and ladies of Cyrodiil, the last Emperor of the Fourth Era has made his opinions known. You now face two choices. Support me, and I will endeavour to do the same job I have completed in Skyrim. Restore order. Provide security. Ensure prosperity for us all. Don't..." I shrugged. "I do not wish to make threats. I hope you don't think I'm threatening, but although I do not seek the throne, I understand why I have been asked. To the Emperor, it was the last favour owed to a dying man. I accepted his proposal and I will be crowned. Your options are now limited to two. You may become a friend of the next Emperor... or you will be his foe."

I remained silent, looking around the room, before turned to Tullius. "General, I believe this matter is now concluded. Now, if you don't mind, I will leave the discussions to you. I would like to see my family. I'm sure you will keep me up to date of whatever ceremony is next."

"Of course, lord."

Two weeks later, after an official proclamation, with news sent across Cyrodiil and Skyrim, I was crowned Emperor Ragnar Dragonborn, first of his name, first Emperor of the Fifth Era. My wife was by my side as she was also crowned, my children becoming prince or princess of the realm. What I knew is that my line was definitely assured considering the number of children I did have. Sure, more were illegitimate than not, but that didn't matter. They still carried my blood.

The dawn of the new era was greeted with cheers and excitement. Before I even took the crown, I released statements of what I hoped to achieve. The only thing I didn't mention was my intentions regarding the Thalmor. Only my Legions had an inkling of my plans so far. But, for now, I would enjoy the day of celebration and worry about any future plans tomorrow.

That evening, I sat on the Ruby Throne and thought back on my life, how far I'd come. I had once been an orphan on these very streets, nothing more than thief. Then I was a warrior, fighting the good fight, before returning to my roots and being a thief. Selling my soul, I became an assassin before turning a corner once again, and ever since that moment, when I almost lost my head at Helgen, my life had been an upward trajectory.

And through it all, I had loved and lost more than once. I would always remember Muiri, my first real love. I still thought about her nearly every day. I missed Astrid and the life we had planned, but I think we were almost delusional. It was always bound to end in tragedy. But then there were the woman at my side now. I loved them all dearly, as much as they loved me. And I had been given the gift of many children, the Divines having now blessed me far more than they had ever taken from me.

I wondered why my future would bring. Would I prove to be a good Emperor? A wise Emperor? Would I lead the Empire to renewed glory? Or would I make mistakes and watch it all crumble around me? I knew I had to surround myself with the right people, take the right advice, and make the right decisions at the right time. Only with all that could I lead my people to a glorious future.

But, again, that was for later. Mirabelle walked into the throne room to see me sitting by myself. Sitting across my lap, she kissed me before resting her head on my chest. "It's been quite the rise for the Dragonborn," she whispered.

Aye, it had been one hell of a ride.

* * * * *

A/N -- I had to end it here. I know many would love to see what happens next, but with all my projects, I need to move on and complete them too, and I think this was a good place to end.

Thanks for all the kudos and feedback over the chapters. Hope you've enjoyed the story.