Imitation Amnesty

Letter of Intent

After finishing 5 (or more) successful Additional Jobs in Whiterun, Delvin Mallory receives an urgent missive from Olfrid Battle-Born, a wealthy Nord residing in Whiterun. It appears that Arn, an old friend of Olfrid, was incarcerated inside Whiterun’s prison for a serious crime he committed in Solitude, a crime that will result in his execution. Fortunately, the Whiterun authorities are not aware of his friend’s identity; he was arrested on the simple charge of drunken and lewd behavior. The problem is that the authorities in Solitude recently dispatched a letter to the Jarl of Whiterun, outlining criminals for whom they are searching. If the Jarl reads the letter and makes the connection with Olfrid’s friend, he’ll be sent to his death. Olfrid proposes that you infiltrate the Jarl’s private quarters in Whiterun and steal the letter. While you’re at it, you might as well make a change in the prison logbook with his friend’s identity written inside.

Such a brazen act of trespass won’t be tolerated by the leaders of Whiterun, so be sure you’re carrying the proper cloaking attire or magical accoutrements to make your infiltration successful. After some additional conversation with Olfrid to pinpoint the letter’s location (and other, optional information), head into the imposing Dragonsreach.

Once inside, if you’re simply wandering around in full view of the guards, Irileth usually stops you. Simply mention that you want to see the Jarl, and you’re given a very temporary reprieve. If the guards or other dwellers turn hostile, do not engage them in battle, as killing those you seek to win the influence of is a terrible idea.

Head northwest from the great hall’s entrance stairs. Go down the side steps and into the Dragonsreach Jarl’s Quarters. The prison registry is on a table in the corner of a bedroom on the other side.

Continue through the Jarl’s personal chambers, heading in a roughly southwest direction until you open the doors into the Jarl’s study. On the table is a letter from Solitude. Grab that, and then flee the area, ideally without being spotted or murdering anyone.

• Letter from Solitude

Quest Conclusion

Scour the streets of Whiterun for Olfrid Battle-Born, who may be wandering about or hanging inside a dwelling. Although he keeps quiet about Arn, he’s happy to receive the letter and tells you to let Delvin know the Guild will be “quite pleased” with what Olfrid can do to influence the powers that run this city. You are also given the an Enchanted Ring.

• Enchanted Ring (Leveled)