Joining the Legion

Before the Undying Loyalty, Unwavering Obedience

After escaping from underneath the battlements of the burning town of Helgen, and watching the dragon responsible for disrupting your execution, speak with Hadvar. He says he’s headed to Riverwood and asks if you want to accompany him. As you progress down the hillside, he recommends you go to Solitude and join the Imperial Legion.

Journey to the main stronghold of the Imperials in Skyrim—the sprawling city of Solitude, perched on a gigantic arch. As you enter, an execution is under way. A traitor named Roggvir is being put to the ax for aiding in the escape of Ulfric Stormcloak after he murdered the previous Jarl, High King Torygg. You may watch the execution or continue up to Castle Dour, within Solitude’s walls. Head west into the strategy planning room, where General Tullius and his Legate Rikke are talking about the war effort. Rikke’s scouts are telling her the Stormcloaks are conscripting more men than the Imperials had hoped, and Riften, Dawnstar, and Winterhold are all showing support for the rebellion.

Tullius grows tired of Jarl Balgruuf of Whiterun. The leader of this key strategic Hold City refuses to garrison Imperial troops there, and he refuses to acknowledge Ulfric’s claim. After more planning, Tullius asks you why you’re here. Answer how you wish, although you gain Tullius’s trust faster if you mention you helped Hadvar escape. He hands you over to Legate Rikke, who is also impressed you escaped Helgen alive. Rikke has a good feeling about you and has a test for you to complete so you can prove you’re worthy of joining the Legion. You’re to clear out Fort Hraggstad. Survive, and you pass this test. This quest officially begins now.

Testing Metal and Mettle

In the Haafingar Hold, on the mountains overlooking the Sea of Ghosts northeast of Solitude, is the fort Legate Rikke wishes to use as a garrison. It is currently a bandit lair; expect around eight of them patrolling the exterior battlements. You can fight them either from range or with melee strikes. Watch for (and kill) the bowmen atop the central tower and along the crenellations. Then enter Fort Hraggstad, striking down two bandits and their chief. Back out and enter the prison, where you can slay the final three bandits. Pick any items you wish once the massacre is over.

Quest Conclusion

Journey back to Castle Dour in Solitude, and Legate Rikke welcomes you back when you speak with her. She sends a garrison to fortify Hraggstad and tells you it is time for you to officially join the Legion. Turn to General Tullius and agree to recite this oath:

“Upon my honor I do swear undying loyalty to the Emperor, and unwavering obedience to the officers of his great Empire.

May those above judge me, and those below take me, if I fail in my duty.

Long live the Emperor! Long live the Empire!”

• Miscellaneous OBJECTIVE: Get Imperial gear from Beirand

Postquest Activities

You are now “Auxiliary” status within the ranks of the Imperials. You may now visit Beirand over by Solitude Forge. He outfits you with proper Imperial warrior attire (see the equipment listed below). Remember you can choose light, medium, or heavy, depending on how maneuverable you want to be and on your play style. Legate Rikke also has your next assignment: Civil War Quests: The Jagged Crown.

• Imperial Armor
• Imperial Boots
• Imperial Bracers
• Imperial Helmet
• Imperial Shield