EDIT: Please check my post on my channel, I have attempted to create my own Serana Preset and need opinions. Hello! Unfortunately, I will probably need to change Serana's appearance. I have requested the preset from the author strictly for personal use in my video, but I am unsure when they will see my message (sent 24 hours ago), and I need to start recording soon. If anyone is willing to create a preset for Serana and share it with me on Discord, I would greatly appreciate it. I already have a backup in mind. Please ensure the preset maintains a similar style to the previous one, staying somewhat lore-friendly. Remember, it needs to be a PRESET!
I love the idea that the Dragonborn in his previous life adopted young sofia knowing her hardship and giving ulfric the chance to truly better himself with taking care of the youth in his city
@ValorousSkyrim actually amazing tho I’m so interested into this new plot, also I feel like there’s a lot of powerful intention into your details gives the story alot of promise
I would vote for him going to Solitude to get Serana's help. Not only did he tell her to wait there, but having seen it happen once already, he should know that Serana is strong enough to see the necessity of Harkon's death. He should know that, while killing him will hurt, it will help her grow into the person she needs to be.
I think in the game that was a part of Serana's journey - the realisation that this was necessary, otherwise why would she have returned home when awoken? Maybe in this timeline sue hasn't had the time since awaking to process all of this by seeing her parents and their obsessions in the present? It might be a challenge to push their character development on Serana so quickly as the Dragonborn's schedule seems to indicate. But that said, I also vote for going to Serana in Solitude. It feels like the Dragonborn needs a real ally and friend to confide in for the story, and with some rapid character development (in their relationship - not necessarily romantic, not necessarily not romantic), Serana could feel that space. Some of the other followers could too.
@@thatonguy2407 Based on game time it could have been that or a few days, and a long trek to the Dawnguard in Riften, and then the entirety of the Dawnguard questline for her to mentally prepare herself for patricide. I'm not disagreeing with you, but if she had returned home and Harkon had been ready for the ritual it would have been too late. She might have felt compelled into siding with her family if pushed to that realisation too quickly by a stranger.
@antiochus87 I think she needed time to fully prepare herself, but I think she knew her father was too far gone as soon as she returned. She has the same realization at the same time within the questline on the Volkihar side, which has less travel time. Serana would probably hesitate if the confrontation had happened immediately, but I don't think she would go along with his plans.
I think the Dragonborn needs to include Serana in confronting Harkon. It’s part of her much needed closure seeing first hand how lost Harkon became in the prophecy.
I like the full conversation. This gives it a very "storied" feel, which I, personally, enjoy. Also, I am more than happy to wait several weeks for both story paths to be uploaded together. Thank you for all the work and effort in this task!
I would vote for him going back to Serana in Solitude. If the DB take all elements of choice from her by going up against her father alone, she will feel cheated and betrayed, because he told her to wait for him in Solitude, expecting to be a part of taking her father down. That's just how a woman's mind works. We expect a man to do what he says he will do...until he doesn't. Then, well, you know the old saying: "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned." As for upload order, I'm more than content to wait until both are ready. Take your time. We'll be here.
The funny thing about that wolf is that I originally planned for him to attack the Dragonborn as he crossed the bridge, and the Dragonborn would use Kyne's Peace to calm him. But the wolf walked in the opposite direction, so I ignored him. Then BAM, guess who shows up later, completely off-script and on the wrong set!
Edit: Update about Part 5 on channel page (under post). Hello! I tried to find the best outcome that would satisfy both people who hate and love Ulfric, I’m a sucker for a good redemption story. Unfortunately, I messed up the video quality, and it ended up being 24 FPS instead of 60 FPS, but it should still work fine for this video. Lastly, I’ve read all the comments on the previous videos, and I want to say thank you to everyone! I’d love to respond to every message, but I’d probably end up sounding like an automated response!
This series is amazing dude, its well written and remains true to the characters in the game. One suggestion I have is is potentially bringing Miraak on as a companion in the end, defying Hermaeus Mora by helping him escape and maybe even givng us his POV on some of the things that befall the Dovahkiin throughout their story.
I loved this way of handling Ulfric. I know he is being manipulated by the thalmor to weaken Skyrim and this kind of just nudges the story into a direction I would’ve wanted to hear in a new game + kinda way. Keep them coming and I’ll keep watching them.
@@Bottlemaker1 Yeah. He is not stupid, but he is not timid either. He only backs down because Dragonborn subtly threathens him with the consequenses of his actions should he continue down this path, Then proves him that what stands before him is a dragonborn of legends.
Its nice to watch ulfric be put in his place and be shown how small he is compared to the dragonborn. Also, gotta love society, it think she has it worse than the other orphan kids scattered around skyrim, that's why I always adopt her, she deserve a new family and a warm home. I would to see the next video to be the path of going to see serana in solitude
I wish this was a option ingame. It always frustrated me that a almost divine being like the dragonborn were completely unable to unify both sides by either convincing or intimidating them despite...you know...having a power called "Bend Will" and all.
I agree. I think unfortunately the Bend Will was more of an afterthought and some of the cooler ideas for the game and story were scrapped. Personally from a gameplay and story perspective I'd include options like: - Using Bend Will to temporarily enthrall and persuade anyone, including key faction leaders. - Permanently turn anyone into a thrall with Bend Will as mind control (including key faction leaders to seize control) - Use talk no jutsu, Bend Will and other means to force peace in the Civil War, persuade Miraak to join you against Hermeus Mora, etc - Use the Blades to form the Dragonborn's own faction for high king and Emperor, and defeat or convert both the Legion and Imperial Legion forces to the Dragonborn's side.
@antiochus87 I hope someone makes a mod of your ideas. I'd love to play that! Sounds too cool not to use. It would also add a moral grey area when you use the same methods on the people of Skyrim as Miraak did for Solstheim. Sure you might be doing it for the greater good and for their well being (depending on your roleplaying) but is the world you're saving genuine or true if everyone is your thrall?
@lm9029 I think there is an old mod where you fight Miraak, use Bend Will on him and eventually turn him to your side, then fight Hermeus Mora's minions and escape, and Miraak becomes a follower. That's part of the inspiration for the idea I have no idea if the mod has been updated or someone else has developed the idea further. Ultimately Miraak wanted to escape Apocrypha and the grasp of Hermeus Mora who kill him in the end. It would be an interesting idea to free him, or enslave him yourself. I would imagine Bend Will could be used in several ways, including a super persuasion skill to win arguements, or outright enslave as permanent thralls. It would be OP, but it's late game and the Dragonborn already is OP by then. As for the morality, it would depend on how and who the player used it on. Lots of powers and magic already in the game is pretty evil and cruel if you think about it (Enchanting and Conjuration). But the evil options and the freedom to have absurd powers you abuse are what makes the late game fun!
OK..... Dude. This is amazing! The detailed conversations is absolutelly what I personally prefer. Hope it doesn't weigh you down though. Also when it comes to the next part. Like someone in this comment section said, upload them both when they are done and make a community post where we can chose the prefered option. I have never seen a creator as dedicated as you are on this platform. You clearly understand Skyrim and its lore to the point where your story absolutely feels like a mod or DLC for the game! I don't mind waiting a few weeks if it means we'll get this level of quality from you. Also love the longer format, but still it feels so short! Keep going man, and don't forget to take some breaks! I understand this is a passion project for you and we share the passion, but it's important you don't overwork yourself. it's bad for your health firstly, and bad for the content as well as it would deffinelty feel rushed! TLDR: Love the video. Keep the dialogue detailed. Take time to make quality content, we will wait. Use the community tab for more feedback.
Loved seeing Odahviing make an appearance! Personally, I think the Dragonborn should regroup with Serana. It could lay a pathway to building up a friendship between them. I vote for waiting a couple-few weeks to have the 2 parts posted simultaneously; or back to back days if you wanted to work with the algorithm a bit.
Yes! Keep the detailed dialogues, please! If you're making two routes, then I'd suggest upload both videos and then make a survey to see which one we prefer you follow through. PS: I know it is too late, but I'd recommend using Pandorable's NPC overhauls. His version of Ulfric is a bit more faithful to the original, but I'm speaking from personal taste. Use whatever overhaul you like, but I may as well mention it. Keep up the good work, man! Looking forward to see where this leads! 💪
That's exactly the idea with the survey! Also, Pandorable's overhauls are my favorite too, but when I tried adding them to LoreRim, it didn’t go very well. I love LoreRim, but I’m switching to his NGVO modlist instead to add more flexibility, considering I don’t actually play the game 😂
W series, W creator honestly Asking the community what they think, or having a discord for suggestions is honestly pretty hype I'm surprised you only have like 1200 subs rn, you're gonna go crazy soon, and I'm looking forward to it.
Amazing chapter to the story! As far as the choice goes, I think the Dragonborn should still inform and involve Serana in Harkon’s defeat. She already has her parents tossing her to the side to achieve their own goals, and I can’t see the Dragonborn doing that to his old friend. I don’t mind waiting for both videos to be ready.
As much as I'd like to see these come out faster (cuz I enjoy them quite a bit), my vote would be to wait a few weeks and upload both videos with a link to a poll, or something like that, as to which route to go through with. I haven't played Skyrim since it first came out, so I don't remember A LOT of things. I also don't know how much you're planning on keeping her in this story, but my initial thought would be for the DB to meet up with her first.
I am rather intrigued by how Serana will react to Dragonborn this time around. Because last time, he needed her help so they became a duo. To top it off, She made an uneasy alliance with Dawnguard which gave both her *and* the Dawnguard a unique perspective to each other's side. Her good relationship with the Dragonborn was built on the fact that they travelled together, fought together and Serana eventually started to feel comfortable enough to talk about herself and her family naturally. In this timeline, They did NOT fight together. Serana does NOT know Dawnguard, nor do they know of Serana. She doesnt share her inner thoughts with the Dragonborn but he already knows so much about her. Which may come off as instead of her mother or father, its the Dragonborn that is manipulating her this time to use her for his own goals. Because she knows nothing of the man. Only that he knows *a lot* about her and her family, he saved her and that he told her to wait on a random city for a week before he's back. She may be alienated or worse, outright betray the Dragonborn as she quite literally never started to get to know the man. She also owes absolutely nothing to Dawnguard which means at the first sight of each other Dawnguard and Serana are likely to fight.
Patience is a virtue I hold in high respect, I will wait for the next two for when they are done. I'll even help voice act if you wish, no payment required.
This episode is amazing, I’ve enjoyed everything so far but this one in particular sticks out to me. It probably stuck out cause I’m a sucker for redemption stories lol. Keep up the great work!
You need to write a book of this. Your writing for this story rivals entire studios. The more I listen to every video the more I wish for what you make to be greater and heard by everyone.
I'm a huge fan of audiobooks, honestly, it's one of the main reasons I wanted to start this project. Converting it into a book or audiobook would be easy, but the visuals make it even better! I would love for this project to grow. If I could commission modders to help with the story, the possibilities would be incredible!
I hope you don’t stop these I just started watchin today I saw this one and seen it was a part 4 I was like I gotta leave and watch the other 3 first Your story tellin is great it reminds me of the days I’d sit down and watch Scott from fudgemuppet do content like this
Also this reminds of a western tv show called kung fu how you have the dragon born show up to places once and help out in any way and leave and never be seen again
So I'm late to the party, but I'm loving the series. I'd like to offer my solution to the dragonborn's dilemma for Serana. I believe this is the time that he should remember the advice of the graybeards, especially since he has been thinking about paarthurnax at the end of this episode. Sometimes the best option is to do nothing. When faced with an unthinkable choice, or being pulled in all directions, the only thing a true dragon can do is to stand their ground. 'Fus' the first word they every learned. Force. What is it 'to force'. To push, demand, cripple? Subjugate? Dominate? The line can be so thin. This is the trap that so many can fall into. The same trap that Harkon fell into. That serana's mother fell into. The very idea of removing another choice, their very will... It may be a dragon's nature but this is wrong. This is why a dragon stands alone. Unless the dragonborn wishes to be alone and isolated, he cannot compel her. To have friendship is to allow the friends to make their choices and mistakes. If he does have faith in her, and she believes in him, in each other the way he claims he must put his own faith to the test now. Trust her. Do nothing. Regroup with her, travel with her, confront her father. Let her choose. End the threat. But know that regardless of the choice... even if it means her end, you remained her truest friend by not robbing her of her free will... It's all she's ever wanted.
I love the full conversation because it adds much needed depth and weight. Also I would love these to be longer! I always feel so on the edge of my seat with anticipation when watching these. Way better than most movies made these days. Keep up the amazing work!
If I switch to full conversations, it will make the videos longer. I’m still in the trial-and-error phase, trying to determine the pacing that resonates best with the audience. I plan to release side stories and revamped full conversations with Serana and Odahviing on Patreon, alongside Part 5. I’m incredibly thankful for the one mod author already helping me create a mod for the next video, and I’d love to commission more mod authors and voice actors, as the project grows.
I’m not sure about that lol, but the next part is definitely going to challenge me. Luckily, I now have a few incredibly knowledgeable lore experts helping me out!
Best video yet!!! I can’t wait to see the next two. I’m willing to wait to see then both uploaded at the same time but I’m also excited to see how both versions play out. I can’t pick one or the other 😂
I definitely see going to Solitude first and having Serena by the DB's side when confronting Harkon as being the "good" route in this situation. Attempting to exclude her would cheapen Serena as a character essentially making her a damsel in need of rescue, which I'm sure she'd take offense to being viewed in such a way. It'd certainly be the "bad" route in this situation and serve as a tangible example of Mora's "advice" to this DB. Loving this story you're developing and can't wait to see what twists you have planned for us as an audience.
I´m loving the series, i just wana make a quick sugestion, in my humble opinion you have to much black screen in the trasitions, you could make them fast so there is little to none black screen. Please keep it going, great writing
It's tough, it would take a tremendous amount of effort and time to reduce the black screens. they aren't strictly transitions; they're meant to cover the ugly side of the footage.
i thank the algorythm for showing me this series. love the idea and how you let your viewers decide the story to some degree! keep up the great work, hope i can contribute more directly at some point
This is an awesome alternate story so far! Dude, just bring out both parts in two to three weeks. No pressure and don't rush it. I will say, though, it would be cool if the Dragonborn ended up meeting the Dark Brotherhood as two factions: Astrid from the Riverwood Sect and Cicero from the Dawnstar Sect.
Man, gottta say, this is an amazing piece of work that you’re doing. Honestly, more of a dream come true if you ask me. A proper, lore-accurate scenario with a proper canon LDB to follow the story of Skyrim but with an even cooler twist. In the last hour I watched all four parts of this series, and I just had to pop in and send a comment your way to commend you for such a wondrous work! Think I’ll even pop into your server, to chat and even offer aid, if needed, especially regarding the lore and writing of it all (let’s just say I’m a bit of a lore expert after a decade of writing and roleplaying in the Elder Scrolls universe). Once more I’ll say, thank you, Valorous! Thank you a thousand times for applying your talent, time, and focus for such a thing, and have a Happy New Year!
Another great chapter, I found this story today and I was instantly hooked. I think it's better you take your time and not rush, releasing both as you suits your needs. As for what next, as a writer myself I think the next step the Dragonborn takes should be up to you depending on the themes, the Dragonborn's motives and personality (as you've developed it for this story), and any curveballs and twists you have planned. The simple and obvious answer is to go the Solitude, meet Serana, and help her get closure and defeat her father, as essentially happens in the Dawnguard DLC. However, maybe the more interesting answer, is that Serana's original story and all that originally happened is prologue. Serana isn't emotionally and psychologically ready to actively oppose her father (her first act after waking up in the game is to want to go home, and she needs to reach that acceptance through the events of the game). Meanwhile, the Dragonborn is essentially a blank slate in the original game, and actually lacks choice, personality and agency, as he or she is swept along by events and destiny. Maybe this story is really about how the Dragonborn does things with prior knowledge, and without constraints placed on him by others. Maybe the Dragonborn can't afford for Serana to have the time to come round to the idea that she must kill her father according to the Dragonborn's schedule to save the world? Or maybe the Dragonborn wants to spare Serana (rightly or wrongly) the heartache of having to take part in patricide? Maybe at some point the Dragonborn will need he needs to trust and rely on allies in this timeline too, and he will make mistakes before that happens. These might be some of the same allies as before, some new ones. Similarly maybe a more interesting story for Serana is if the Dragonborn does eliminate her father without her, and she has to come to terms that the prophesy and her place in the world are gone, and how else these two characters bond? I wouldn't say there is a good or bad choice, but hopefully there's some food for thought. Or maybe you've considered this already. Either way, please keep going, you're doing great!
I just discovered this series and I’m really enjoying it so far. As for what choice you should do I think that you should do what is best for you since you are taking time to make quality videos like these. So you are free to choose either both videos at the same time or one at a time. But if you do choose to make one video at a time for the most requested vote then I think you should go to get Serana first.
Sophia was a great detail to flesh out! Then I remembered the other orphan, Aventus Aretino. Not that he fits with this video, I just felt bad for that poor little psycho.
I think Solitude needs to be the next trip on the journey. With Ulfric convinced of the fates through prophecy's mouth, the Dovahkiin must now unveil truth to General Tullius as a precaution to Imperial retaliation through the clause of the White-Gold Concordat. Peace has been reached through Windhelm it's truth must reach Solitude before a march is made. Harkon is still in dim conditions without many of the elements afforded to him for the blotting of the Eye of Magnus. His true darkness cannot be reached without Serana or the Elder Scroll for which he has neither. Alduin, Harkon, and Miraak are indeed way in over their heads against this reborn entity of their fates.
Serana needs her vengeance against Harkon and she has already agreed to wait for the Dovahkin in Solitude once more, her knowlege of statecraft as a noble will be invaluable in brokering a peace deal between Ulfric and the the Empire. Getting her on side is the best move, the worst thing the Dovahkin could do is leave her hanging to face Harkon and betray her and risk a battle between them.
Hello, great video as always. I would vote for the full conversation and for DB to go to Solitude. About the parts take your time and release them both together. (english is not my first language so i hope i make sense)
The conversation was summarized, so a lot was left unsaid. He didn’t call Odahviing about Serana, he just needed a ride to Solitude. Bringing it up was more like asking a friend for their opinion on something stuck in your mind.
Personally, I think defeating Harkon takes priority since we know that Alduin won’t end the world whereas Harkon will definitely try to block out the sun. Alduin is currently sitting in Sovenguard eating souls to gain strength. However, Harkon requires Auriels bow and if the dawn guard is given assistance from the imperials and storm cloaks in the region who’re no longer fighting they can likely handle it themselves without the dragon born especially if they take hold of auriels bow.
I prefer full confrontations and I'm hoping the Dragonborn goes to Solitude to bring Serana along to confront her father. She's his Ride-or-Die, come Oblivion or Ebony Warrior, she'll have DB's back.
Damn, now I really want to be in Dovahkiin's place in this story, just to personally see everyone's reaction to my "knowledge"! 😄 As for the dialogues, I suggest keeping a balance in them: detailed emotional parts, and short common ones.
It’s LoreRim 3.0. However, the ENB I use (Pi-Cho) is an older version that I think looks much better than the newer ones. Unfortunately, the mod author has archived that file, so if you don’t already have it saved, I have no idea how to get the version I’m using.
Really good storyline in this one. I like the direct conversational style. Only gripe is the mod you use for skin is just too perfect. You lost the rugged stlye of Skyrim for the people. Skin too smooth, Ulfric looks 25 not 40-50 as his cannon age is. Tempered skin for men and women with the older options would fix that.
Yep, agreed. Right now, I’m stuck with whatever LoreRim gives me, as modifying it is tough. I’m switching to a more flexible mod list, which will let me cater it strictly to storytelling rather than gameplay.
Not a fan of the first half of this one. The conversation with Ulfric is preachy and devoid of logic. The fact is that if Ulfric steps down, the empire will take control. Saying that Ulfric can give up his crown and still safeguard the traditions of Skyrim is ridiculous and based on nothing but whiny hopes. The Dragonborn wasn't making a point here. He was just a hippie.
Ulfric stepping down in this context isn’t surrender, it’s negotiating peace. With the Dragonborn's help, Skyrim can unite and retain its autonomy while preparing to resist the Thalmor. Negotiating peace doesn’t mean giving the Empire full control, it means creating a strategic alliance where Skyrim’s traditions, like Talos worship, are safeguarded through unity and strength. The Dragonborn's role as a mediator could also delay the need for a formal High King, as their leadership might suffice temporarily to maintain unity and direction.
I see this conversation with Ulfric as a prelude to season unending, but in the form of a full moot of jarls and not just the major figureheads of the war. I'm eager to see the conversation that could take place between the DB and Tullius one on one now. How can the DB talk peace when the Thalmor want the war to continue and won't just abide by peace negotiations without it being on their terms? They certainly won't relent on the banning of Talos worship and Tullius is in no position to oppose their enforcement of the White-Gold concordant. Maybe this is some of the hubris Mora spoke of, the DB believing that their power and little bit of foreknowledge can shape this timeline and achieve all the perfect solutions to problems far beyond their capabilities?
EDIT: Please check my post on my channel, I have attempted to create my own Serana Preset and need opinions. Hello! Unfortunately, I will probably need to change Serana's appearance. I have requested the preset from the author strictly for personal use in my video, but I am unsure when they will see my message (sent 24 hours ago), and I need to start recording soon. If anyone is willing to create a preset for Serana and share it with me on Discord, I would greatly appreciate it. I already have a backup in mind. Please ensure the preset maintains a similar style to the previous one, staying somewhat lore-friendly. Remember, it needs to be a PRESET!
I love the idea that the Dragonborn in his previous life adopted young sofia knowing her hardship and giving ulfric the chance to truly better himself with taking care of the youth in his city
I thought the Sofia stuff was so sweet and well played!
That's exactly what I was going for!
@ValorousSkyrim actually amazing tho I’m so interested into this new plot, also I feel like there’s a lot of powerful intention into your details gives the story alot of promise
In every single playthru I do I adopt Sofia. Don’t care if it breaks the story I’ve made, I’m not gonna let her go cold
Sofia and Lucia are my daughters no matter what playthrough.
I would vote for him going to Solitude to get Serana's help. Not only did he tell her to wait there, but having seen it happen once already, he should know that Serana is strong enough to see the necessity of Harkon's death. He should know that, while killing him will hurt, it will help her grow into the person she needs to be.
It would also give the much needed time skip to pass in travel for Ulfric and the jarls to get their affairs in order to ready to meet at Whiterun.
I think in the game that was a part of Serana's journey - the realisation that this was necessary, otherwise why would she have returned home when awoken? Maybe in this timeline sue hasn't had the time since awaking to process all of this by seeing her parents and their obsessions in the present? It might be a challenge to push their character development on Serana so quickly as the Dragonborn's schedule seems to indicate.
But that said, I also vote for going to Serana in Solitude. It feels like the Dragonborn needs a real ally and friend to confide in for the story, and with some rapid character development (in their relationship - not necessarily romantic, not necessarily not romantic), Serana could feel that space. Some of the other followers could too.
@antiochus87 it seems like the moment she returned home and saw Harkon, she realized. He only cared about the Elder Scroll.
@@thatonguy2407 Based on game time it could have been that or a few days, and a long trek to the Dawnguard in Riften, and then the entirety of the Dawnguard questline for her to mentally prepare herself for patricide. I'm not disagreeing with you, but if she had returned home and Harkon had been ready for the ritual it would have been too late. She might have felt compelled into siding with her family if pushed to that realisation too quickly by a stranger.
@antiochus87 I think she needed time to fully prepare herself, but I think she knew her father was too far gone as soon as she returned. She has the same realization at the same time within the questline on the Volkihar side, which has less travel time.
Serana would probably hesitate if the confrontation had happened immediately, but I don't think she would go along with his plans.
I think the Dragonborn needs to include Serana in confronting Harkon. It’s part of her much needed closure seeing first hand how lost Harkon became in the prophecy.
I like the full conversation. This gives it a very "storied" feel, which I, personally, enjoy.
Also, I am more than happy to wait several weeks for both story paths to be uploaded together. Thank you for all the work and effort in this task!
I would vote for him going back to Serana in Solitude. If the DB take all elements of choice from her by going up against her father alone, she will feel cheated and betrayed, because he told her to wait for him in Solitude, expecting to be a part of taking her father down. That's just how a woman's mind works. We expect a man to do what he says he will do...until he doesn't. Then, well, you know the old saying: "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned."
As for upload order, I'm more than content to wait until both are ready. Take your time. We'll be here.
By Azura By Azura, the way you've written this is beyond anything I could do. Thank you
The power of OCD, lots of audiobooks, and severe insomnia! 😅
@@ValorousSkyrim If you want to get the Adoring Fan in there are a change in the timeline I wouldn't object 😂
@@antiochus87That's a hilarious idea, but I've already set the tone on a more serious note.😂
14:28 "Oops I'm on the wrong set." -Wolf
LOL
The funny thing about that wolf is that I originally planned for him to attack the Dragonborn as he crossed the bridge, and the Dragonborn would use Kyne's Peace to calm him. But the wolf walked in the opposite direction, so I ignored him. Then BAM, guess who shows up later, completely off-script and on the wrong set!
Edit: Update about Part 5 on channel page (under post). Hello! I tried to find the best outcome that would satisfy both people who hate and love Ulfric, I’m a sucker for a good redemption story. Unfortunately, I messed up the video quality, and it ended up being 24 FPS instead of 60 FPS, but it should still work fine for this video. Lastly, I’ve read all the comments on the previous videos, and I want to say thank you to everyone! I’d love to respond to every message, but I’d probably end up sounding like an automated response!
This series is amazing dude, its well written and remains true to the characters in the game. One suggestion I have is is potentially bringing Miraak on as a companion in the end, defying Hermaeus Mora by helping him escape and maybe even givng us his POV on some of the things that befall the Dovahkiin throughout their story.
I love it it's basically a Skyrim isekai
I loved this way of handling Ulfric. I know he is being manipulated by the thalmor to weaken Skyrim and this kind of just nudges the story into a direction I would’ve wanted to hear in a new game + kinda way. Keep them coming and I’ll keep watching them.
@@Bottlemaker1 Yeah. He is not stupid, but he is not timid either. He only backs down because Dragonborn subtly threathens him with the consequenses of his actions should he continue down this path, Then proves him that what stands before him is a dragonborn of legends.
Its nice to watch ulfric be put in his place and be shown how small he is compared to the dragonborn. Also, gotta love society, it think she has it worse than the other orphan kids scattered around skyrim, that's why I always adopt her, she deserve a new family and a warm home. I would to see the next video to be the path of going to see serana in solitude
I wish this was a option ingame. It always frustrated me that a almost divine being like the dragonborn were completely unable to unify both sides by either convincing or intimidating them despite...you know...having a power called "Bend Will" and all.
I agree. I think unfortunately the Bend Will was more of an afterthought and some of the cooler ideas for the game and story were scrapped.
Personally from a gameplay and story perspective I'd include options like:
- Using Bend Will to temporarily enthrall and persuade anyone, including key faction leaders.
- Permanently turn anyone into a thrall with Bend Will as mind control (including key faction leaders to seize control)
- Use talk no jutsu, Bend Will and other means to force peace in the Civil War, persuade Miraak to join you against Hermeus Mora, etc
- Use the Blades to form the Dragonborn's own faction for high king and Emperor, and defeat or convert both the Legion and Imperial Legion forces to the Dragonborn's side.
@antiochus87 I hope someone makes a mod of your ideas. I'd love to play that! Sounds too cool not to use.
It would also add a moral grey area when you use the same methods on the people of Skyrim as Miraak did for Solstheim. Sure you might be doing it for the greater good and for their well being (depending on your roleplaying) but is the world you're saving genuine or true if everyone is your thrall?
@lm9029 I think there is an old mod where you fight Miraak, use Bend Will on him and eventually turn him to your side, then fight Hermeus Mora's minions and escape, and Miraak becomes a follower. That's part of the inspiration for the idea I have no idea if the mod has been updated or someone else has developed the idea further.
Ultimately Miraak wanted to escape Apocrypha and the grasp of Hermeus Mora who kill him in the end. It would be an interesting idea to free him, or enslave him yourself.
I would imagine Bend Will could be used in several ways, including a super persuasion skill to win arguements, or outright enslave as permanent thralls. It would be OP, but it's late game and the Dragonborn already is OP by then.
As for the morality, it would depend on how and who the player used it on. Lots of powers and magic already in the game is pretty evil and cruel if you think about it (Enchanting and Conjuration). But the evil options and the freedom to have absurd powers you abuse are what makes the late game fun!
OK..... Dude. This is amazing! The detailed conversations is absolutelly what I personally prefer. Hope it doesn't weigh you down though.
Also when it comes to the next part. Like someone in this comment section said, upload them both when they are done and make a community post where we can chose the prefered option. I have never seen a creator as dedicated as you are on this platform. You clearly understand Skyrim and its lore to the point where your story absolutely feels like a mod or DLC for the game!
I don't mind waiting a few weeks if it means we'll get this level of quality from you. Also love the longer format, but still it feels so short!
Keep going man, and don't forget to take some breaks! I understand this is a passion project for you and we share the passion, but it's important you don't overwork yourself. it's bad for your health firstly, and bad for the content as well as it would deffinelty feel rushed!
TLDR: Love the video. Keep the dialogue detailed. Take time to make quality content, we will wait. Use the community tab for more feedback.
Loved seeing Odahviing make an appearance!
Personally, I think the Dragonborn should regroup with Serana. It could lay a pathway to building up a friendship between them.
I vote for waiting a couple-few weeks to have the 2 parts posted simultaneously; or back to back days if you wanted to work with the algorithm a bit.
Yes! Keep the detailed dialogues, please!
If you're making two routes, then I'd suggest upload both videos and then make a survey to see which one we prefer you follow through.
PS: I know it is too late, but I'd recommend using Pandorable's NPC overhauls. His version of Ulfric is a bit more faithful to the original, but I'm speaking from personal taste. Use whatever overhaul you like, but I may as well mention it.
Keep up the good work, man! Looking forward to see where this leads! 💪
That's exactly the idea with the survey! Also, Pandorable's overhauls are my favorite too, but when I tried adding them to LoreRim, it didn’t go very well. I love LoreRim, but I’m switching to his NGVO modlist instead to add more flexibility, considering I don’t actually play the game 😂
W series, W creator honestly
Asking the community what they think, or having a discord for suggestions is honestly pretty hype
I'm surprised you only have like 1200 subs rn, you're gonna go crazy soon, and I'm looking forward to it.
Algorithm blessed me late but I too am here from now on!
Hell yeah. The community really appreciates you taking their opinions in on it.
Take your time with both parts. Patience has proven to be rewarding thus far.
Amazing chapter to the story! As far as the choice goes, I think the Dragonborn should still inform and involve Serana in Harkon’s defeat. She already has her parents tossing her to the side to achieve their own goals, and I can’t see the Dragonborn doing that to his old friend. I don’t mind waiting for both videos to be ready.
As much as I'd like to see these come out faster (cuz I enjoy them quite a bit), my vote would be to wait a few weeks and upload both videos with a link to a poll, or something like that, as to which route to go through with.
I haven't played Skyrim since it first came out, so I don't remember A LOT of things. I also don't know how much you're planning on keeping her in this story, but my initial thought would be for the DB to meet up with her first.
One of my top favorite stories of skyrim. Thank you
I am rather intrigued by how Serana will react to Dragonborn this time around. Because last time, he needed her help so they became a duo. To top it off, She made an uneasy alliance with Dawnguard which gave both her *and* the Dawnguard a unique perspective to each other's side.
Her good relationship with the Dragonborn was built on the fact that they travelled together, fought together and Serana eventually started to feel comfortable enough to talk about herself and her family naturally.
In this timeline, They did NOT fight together. Serana does NOT know Dawnguard, nor do they know of Serana. She doesnt share her inner thoughts with the Dragonborn but he already knows so much about her. Which may come off as instead of her mother or father, its the Dragonborn that is manipulating her this time to use her for his own goals. Because she knows nothing of the man. Only that he knows *a lot* about her and her family, he saved her and that he told her to wait on a random city for a week before he's back.
She may be alienated or worse, outright betray the Dragonborn as she quite literally never started to get to know the man. She also owes absolutely nothing to Dawnguard which means at the first sight of each other Dawnguard and Serana are likely to fight.
Always so many possibilities! Just think about the craziest thing that could happen, and that's probably what I am trying to do lol
Patience is a virtue I hold in high respect, I will wait for the next two for when they are done. I'll even help voice act if you wish, no payment required.
@valorousSkyrim
Did you join the discord? If not you definitely should!
This episode is amazing, I’ve enjoyed everything so far but this one in particular sticks out to me. It probably stuck out cause I’m a sucker for redemption stories lol. Keep up the great work!
Continuing the legacy of magnificence!
Amazing. It would be awesome to have a mod where you can actually play out this entire alternate timeline.
You need to write a book of this. Your writing for this story rivals entire studios. The more I listen to every video the more I wish for what you make to be greater and heard by everyone.
I'm a huge fan of audiobooks, honestly, it's one of the main reasons I wanted to start this project. Converting it into a book or audiobook would be easy, but the visuals make it even better! I would love for this project to grow. If I could commission modders to help with the story, the possibilities would be incredible!
I hope you don’t stop these I just started watchin today I saw this one and seen it was a part 4 I was like I gotta leave and watch the other 3 first
Your story tellin is great it reminds me of the days I’d sit down and watch Scott from fudgemuppet do content like this
Also this reminds of a western tv show called kung fu how you have the dragon born show up to places once and help out in any way and leave and never be seen again
I'd suggest the Solitude option, after all, Serana has her part to play at her choosing. Why take that away?
So I'm late to the party, but I'm loving the series. I'd like to offer my solution to the dragonborn's dilemma for Serana. I believe this is the time that he should remember the advice of the graybeards, especially since he has been thinking about paarthurnax at the end of this episode. Sometimes the best option is to do nothing. When faced with an unthinkable choice, or being pulled in all directions, the only thing a true dragon can do is to stand their ground. 'Fus' the first word they every learned. Force. What is it 'to force'. To push, demand, cripple? Subjugate? Dominate? The line can be so thin.
This is the trap that so many can fall into. The same trap that Harkon fell into. That serana's mother fell into. The very idea of removing another choice, their very will... It may be a dragon's nature but this is wrong. This is why a dragon stands alone. Unless the dragonborn wishes to be alone and isolated, he cannot compel her. To have friendship is to allow the friends to make their choices and mistakes. If he does have faith in her, and she believes in him, in each other the way he claims he must put his own faith to the test now. Trust her.
Do nothing. Regroup with her, travel with her, confront her father. Let her choose. End the threat. But know that regardless of the choice... even if it means her end, you remained her truest friend by not robbing her of her free will... It's all she's ever wanted.
Well said!
I love the full conversation because it adds much needed depth and weight. Also I would love these to be longer! I always feel so on the edge of my seat with anticipation when watching these. Way better than most movies made these days. Keep up the amazing work!
If I switch to full conversations, it will make the videos longer. I’m still in the trial-and-error phase, trying to determine the pacing that resonates best with the audience. I plan to release side stories and revamped full conversations with Serana and Odahviing on Patreon, alongside Part 5. I’m incredibly thankful for the one mod author already helping me create a mod for the next video, and I’d love to commission more mod authors and voice actors, as the project grows.
@ValorousSkyrim dude Bethesda needs to hire you on as their lead script writer for es6
I’m not sure about that lol, but the next part is definitely going to challenge me. Luckily, I now have a few incredibly knowledgeable lore experts helping me out!
Wasnt expecting quality writing like this
Best video yet!!! I can’t wait to see the next two. I’m willing to wait to see then both uploaded at the same time but I’m also excited to see how both versions play out. I can’t pick one or the other 😂
I definitely see going to Solitude first and having Serena by the DB's side when confronting Harkon as being the "good" route in this situation.
Attempting to exclude her would cheapen Serena as a character essentially making her a damsel in need of rescue, which I'm sure she'd take offense to being viewed in such a way.
It'd certainly be the "bad" route in this situation and serve as a tangible example of Mora's "advice" to this DB.
Loving this story you're developing and can't wait to see what twists you have planned for us as an audience.
I´m loving the series, i just wana make a quick sugestion, in my humble opinion you have to much black screen in the trasitions, you could make them fast so there is little to none black screen. Please keep it going, great writing
It's tough, it would take a tremendous amount of effort and time to reduce the black screens. they aren't strictly transitions; they're meant to cover the ugly side of the footage.
@@ValorousSkyrim its ok bro, it was just a sugestion, the writing by itself is good enough for me to follow this series ;)
i thank the algorythm for showing me this series. love the idea and how you let your viewers decide the story to some degree! keep up the great work, hope i can contribute more directly at some point
Yep! My knowledge of side quests is poor, so if anyone happens to throw out a good suggestion, I will 100% see it and consider it!
This is truely an amazing series ill make sure to always pay attention when new videos arrives
Bro that's amazing series you've started. Waiting for another part with excitement. Keep it up 👍.
I am nothing but patient. Take your time, and upload both paths at once.
This is an awesome alternate story so far!
Dude, just bring out both parts in two to three weeks. No pressure and don't rush it.
I will say, though, it would be cool if the Dragonborn ended up meeting the Dark Brotherhood as two factions:
Astrid from the Riverwood Sect and Cicero from the Dawnstar Sect.
the only series i have notifications for!
This is a very cool project!
Man, gottta say, this is an amazing piece of work that you’re doing.
Honestly, more of a dream come true if you ask me. A proper, lore-accurate scenario with a proper canon LDB to follow the story of Skyrim but with an even cooler twist.
In the last hour I watched all four parts of this series, and I just had to pop in and send a comment your way to commend you for such a wondrous work!
Think I’ll even pop into your server, to chat and even offer aid, if needed, especially regarding the lore and writing of it all (let’s just say I’m a bit of a lore expert after a decade of writing and roleplaying in the Elder Scrolls universe).
Once more I’ll say, thank you, Valorous! Thank you a thousand times for applying your talent, time, and focus for such a thing, and have a Happy New Year!
holy crap. story that goes in splitted ways?! now that some next level of effort!
this is wonderful storytelling. alot of show don't tell. i will watch your career with great interest
Another great chapter, I found this story today and I was instantly hooked. I think it's better you take your time and not rush, releasing both as you suits your needs.
As for what next, as a writer myself I think the next step the Dragonborn takes should be up to you depending on the themes, the Dragonborn's motives and personality (as you've developed it for this story), and any curveballs and twists you have planned.
The simple and obvious answer is to go the Solitude, meet Serana, and help her get closure and defeat her father, as essentially happens in the Dawnguard DLC.
However, maybe the more interesting answer, is that Serana's original story and all that originally happened is prologue. Serana isn't emotionally and psychologically ready to actively oppose her father (her first act after waking up in the game is to want to go home, and she needs to reach that acceptance through the events of the game). Meanwhile, the Dragonborn is essentially a blank slate in the original game, and actually lacks choice, personality and agency, as he or she is swept along by events and destiny. Maybe this story is really about how the Dragonborn does things with prior knowledge, and without constraints placed on him by others. Maybe the Dragonborn can't afford for Serana to have the time to come round to the idea that she must kill her father according to the Dragonborn's schedule to save the world? Or maybe the Dragonborn wants to spare Serana (rightly or wrongly) the heartache of having to take part in patricide?
Maybe at some point the Dragonborn will need he needs to trust and rely on allies in this timeline too, and he will make mistakes before that happens. These might be some of the same allies as before, some new ones.
Similarly maybe a more interesting story for Serana is if the Dragonborn does eliminate her father without her, and she has to come to terms that the prophesy and her place in the world are gone, and how else these two characters bond?
I wouldn't say there is a good or bad choice, but hopefully there's some food for thought. Or maybe you've considered this already.
Either way, please keep going, you're doing great!
All fun and games until you awake the great dreamer with this world shattering revelations
I loved the discution with ulfric
Was wondering what was gonna happen if he called Odahviing.
Was thinking he'd respond with a "New Thu'um, who dis?"
i wish i could leave more than one like for Sophie T_T
I just discovered this series and I’m really enjoying it so far. As for what choice you should do I think that you should do what is best for you since you are taking time to make quality videos like these. So you are free to choose either both videos at the same time or one at a time. But if you do choose to make one video at a time for the most requested vote then I think you should go to get Serana first.
Damn I got so invested in this, I suggest both but that’s just me
Another great video
I’m fine with either choice personally
Am loving what you’ve done with Sofie though
Sophia was a great detail to flesh out! Then I remembered the other orphan, Aventus Aretino. Not that he fits with this video, I just felt bad for that poor little psycho.
I think Solitude needs to be the next trip on the journey. With Ulfric convinced of the fates through prophecy's mouth, the Dovahkiin must now unveil truth to General Tullius as a precaution to Imperial retaliation through the clause of the White-Gold Concordat.
Peace has been reached through Windhelm it's truth must reach Solitude before a march is made. Harkon is still in dim conditions without many of the elements afforded to him for the blotting of the Eye of Magnus. His true darkness cannot be reached without Serana or the Elder Scroll for which he has neither.
Alduin, Harkon, and Miraak are indeed way in over their heads against this reborn entity of their fates.
Vote to go to solitude first, he knows she is strong enough to do it as she did in her last life
Serana needs her vengeance against Harkon and she has already agreed to wait for the Dovahkin in Solitude once more, her knowlege of statecraft as a noble will be invaluable in brokering a peace deal between Ulfric and the the Empire. Getting her on side is the best move, the worst thing the Dovahkin could do is leave her hanging to face Harkon and betray her and risk a battle between them.
Hello, great video as always. I would vote for the full conversation and for DB to go to Solitude. About the parts take your time and release them both together. (english is not my first language so i hope i make sense)
I love the long version^^
0:30 I would balance between full conversations and summaries.
A 20 minute video very nice
Solitude, he needs serana
do them both at once. i think that would be a wonderful idea, and great gift to us all. s=to see both paths come togther.
I preffer full conversation.
hell yea dude keep it coming.
If the Dragonborn does neglect Serana, which I don't think he should, that action should have severe consequences.
I vote for the Solitude option. Serana is and should be part of this destiny.
This is amazing
I see differences to my dragonborn, actually he doesn't like helmets. 90% of the NPC have never seen the face of my dragonborn.
Asking Odahviing about Serana felt random but the rest was fine
The conversation was summarized, so a lot was left unsaid. He didn’t call Odahviing about Serana, he just needed a ride to Solitude. Bringing it up was more like asking a friend for their opinion on something stuck in your mind.
@ValorousSkyrim that makes more sense
Its better a balance, Full conversations for important characters but summary for lesser characters.
Personally, I think defeating Harkon takes priority since we know that Alduin won’t end the world whereas Harkon will definitely try to block out the sun. Alduin is currently sitting in Sovenguard eating souls to gain strength. However, Harkon requires Auriels bow and if the dawn guard is given assistance from the imperials and storm cloaks in the region who’re no longer fighting they can likely handle it themselves without the dragon born especially if they take hold of auriels bow.
I propose a third option: Upload the video you want.
Yeah, I'd like both and will watch both, if that's what you choose.
Yep, I decided to release 1 really long part.
I prefer full confrontations and I'm hoping the Dragonborn goes to Solitude to bring Serana along to confront her father.
She's his Ride-or-Die, come Oblivion or Ebony Warrior, she'll have DB's back.
I would like the solitude story first. I don't want to wait two weeks.
Wait and release both. make it a choose your own story adventure in a way
Damn, now I really want to be in Dovahkiin's place in this story, just to personally see everyone's reaction to my "knowledge"! 😄
As for the dialogues, I suggest keeping a balance in them: detailed emotional parts, and short common ones.
What's your mod list?
It’s LoreRim 3.0. However, the ENB I use (Pi-Cho) is an older version that I think looks much better than the newer ones. Unfortunately, the mod author has archived that file, so if you don’t already have it saved, I have no idea how to get the version I’m using.
I love it.
🔥🔥
umm... Did the DovAhKin just forget about Aventus? Like, I get it, Sophie is important, but like... Aventus is an orphan too.
Pacing! I will be releasing small side stories like this on Patreon.
What modlist did you use? I was wondering If I can use that as well and I am quite curious on what it is... in this video
I am enjoying how this is developing. +1 for Sofie! =^[.]^=
Both
Really good storyline in this one. I like the direct conversational style. Only gripe is the mod you use for skin is just too perfect. You lost the rugged stlye of Skyrim for the people. Skin too smooth, Ulfric looks 25 not 40-50 as his cannon age is. Tempered skin for men and women with the older options would fix that.
Yep, agreed. Right now, I’m stuck with whatever LoreRim gives me, as modifying it is tough. I’m switching to a more flexible mod list, which will let me cater it strictly to storytelling rather than gameplay.
Not a fan of the first half of this one. The conversation with Ulfric is preachy and devoid of logic.
The fact is that if Ulfric steps down, the empire will take control. Saying that Ulfric can give up his crown and still safeguard the traditions of Skyrim is ridiculous and based on nothing but whiny hopes.
The Dragonborn wasn't making a point here. He was just a hippie.
Ulfric stepping down in this context isn’t surrender, it’s negotiating peace. With the Dragonborn's help, Skyrim can unite and retain its autonomy while preparing to resist the Thalmor. Negotiating peace doesn’t mean giving the Empire full control, it means creating a strategic alliance where Skyrim’s traditions, like Talos worship, are safeguarded through unity and strength.
The Dragonborn's role as a mediator could also delay the need for a formal High King, as their leadership might suffice temporarily to maintain unity and direction.
I see this conversation with Ulfric as a prelude to season unending, but in the form of a full moot of jarls and not just the major figureheads of the war.
I'm eager to see the conversation
that could take place between the DB and Tullius one on one now.
How can the DB talk peace when the Thalmor want the war to continue and won't just abide by peace negotiations without it being on their terms?
They certainly won't relent on the banning of Talos worship and Tullius is in no position to oppose their enforcement of the White-Gold concordant.
Maybe this is some of the hubris Mora spoke of, the DB believing that their power and little bit of foreknowledge can shape this timeline and achieve all the perfect solutions to problems far beyond their capabilities?