Skyrim:Legate Rikke

The UESPWiki – Your source for The Elder Scrolls since 1995
Jump to: navigation, search
Legate Rikke
(RefID: 000198BB)
(lore page)
Home City Solitude
Location Castle Dour,
Imperial Camps.
Race Nord Gender Female
Level PC×1 (range=10-30) Class Imperial Soldier
RefID 000198BB BaseID 000132A1
Other Information
Health 550+(PC-1)×8 Magicka 50
Stamina 50+(PC-1)×7
Primary Skills Archery, Block, Heavy Armor, Light Armor, One-handed, Two-handed
Morality No Crime Aggression Aggressive
Essential Yes, until Battle for Solitude
Voice Type FemaleCommander
Faction(s) CWFieldCOFaction; CWImperialFactionNPC; CWImperialFaction; CWImperialFieldCOVoiceTypeFaction; CrimeFactionHaafingar; FavorExcludedFaction; NPCs the Player cannot marry; SolitudeCastleDourFaction; Thieves Guild No Pickpocketing Faction; TownSolitudeFaction
Legate Rikke at Castle Dour

Legate Rikke, General Tullius' chief lieutenant, is a loyal Imperial officer as well as a Nord who firmly believes that Skyrim must remain part of the Empire. She personally knows the key players of the rebellion, Ulfric Stormcloak and Galmar Stone-Fist, as they were once friends and fought side by side in the Imperial Legion during The Great War. For full details on Rikke's involvement in the Civil War, see this section.

Legate Rikke can be found in Castle Dour in Solitude until Reunification of Skyrim, when she will serve at the various camps set up by the Imperials. When in Castle Dour she will never leave the strategy map and will discuss battle plans with General Tullius around the clock, only stopping for a few random meals at one of the available chairs. She was supposed to live a more normal existence, but doesn't, due to a bug.

Rikke usually wears Imperial armor with matching boots and bracers. During her trip to Korvanjund and while spending time in and around the camps during Reunification of Skyrim, she will equip an Imperial officer's helmet. For extra protection in battle, she always blocks with a steel shield and attacks with a steel sword. She also carries a belted tunic, which she was supposed to wear while sleeping.

After you have joined the legion, Rikke will readily explain her role and why she fights for the Empire, despite being a Nord: "I am a loyal citizen of the Empire. My parents were Legionnaires, and I've followed in their footsteps. But more importantly, I am a daughter of Skyrim and wish to see her made whole again." When confronted with the fact that she sounds like a Stormcloak, she will reply: "I've been a daughter of Skyrim all my life. I love this land and her people. So do all the Nords that serve the Empire. Ulfric, too, once. He wasn't always a self-serving ego-maniac. He fought in the Imperial army in the War against the Dominion. But Ulfric and his "Stormcloaks" are deluding themselves. If there's any hope of a long term victory against the Dominion, it's in the Empire. The rebels are only inflaming the tension and weakening the Empire by distracting it from its ultimate aim." She will avoid responding to questions about her beliefs about Talos and the Stormcloaks: "I'm a soldier, not a politician. And my personal beliefs are not yours to question." When asked if she considers the Thalmor enemies, she will brusquely exit dialogue with: "I consider this conversation over." Lastly, she will reveal what it will take to end the war: "I hope Ulfric will come to his senses. But I fear he's in too far to stop now. Likely only Ulfric's death, or the overthrow of the Jarls supporting him will end this. Either way, much blood will be spilt."

Related Quests[edit]

Quest-Related Events[edit]

Joining the Legion[edit]

When you arrive in Solitude, the town guards will all recommend that you join the cause and talk to Rikke, saying, "If you've come to Solitude to join the Legion, speak to Rikke. If not, just keep your nose clean while you're here... or you'll end up like Roggvir." If you ask them directly how to join the Legion, they will say, "There's no greater honor than to serve. If you're serious about enlisting, speak to Legate Rikke in Castle Dour." or "How does one join the Imperial Legion? But talk to Legate Rikke. She handles the local recruiting." When you finally enter Castle Dour you will find Rikke and General Tullius deeply focused on the strategy battle map laid on the table in front of them, obviously worried about Ulfric Stormcloak and, in particular, the city of Whiterun and its stubborn jarl, Balgruuf the Greater.

Rikke and Tullius

Rikke: "I'm telling you, Ulfric's planning an attack on Whiterun."
Tullius: "He'd be insane to try. He doesn't have the men."
Rikke: "That's not what my scouts report, sir. Every day more join his cause. Riften, Dawnstar, and Winterhold support him."
Tullius: "It's not a cause. It's a rebellion."
Rikke: "Call it whatever you like, General. The man's going to try to take Whiterun."
Tullius: "Jarl Balgruuf..."
Rikke: "Balgruuf refuses the Legion's right to garrison troops in his city. On the other hand, he also refuses to acknowledge Ulfric's claim."
Tullius: "Well, if he wants to stand outside the protection of the Empire, fine. Let Ulfric pillage his city."
Rikke: "General."
Tullius: "You people and your damn Jarls."
Rikke: "Sir? You can't force a Nord to accept help he hasn't asked for."
Tullius: "If Ulfric's making a move for Whiterun, then we need to be there to stop him. Draft another letter with the usual platitudes, but this time share some of your intelligence regarding Ulfric's plans. Embellish if you have to. We'll let it seem like it's his idea."
Rikke: "Yes, sir."
Tullius: "You Nords and your bloody sense of honor."
Rikke: "Sir."

Afterwards, Rikke will return to the map and you will have to go through Tullius before you can speak with her. Otherwise, she will just ask "Are you lost?" and return to her strategies. When Tullius points you to her, she will be more talkative, saying, "You survived Helgen? General Tullius told me what happened. Not many made it out alive... I've got a good feeling about you. And I don't often get good feelings about anything. A warrior knows to trust her gut... I'm not going to go through the normal process with you. I've got a little test lined up. Pass that, and we'll talk about you joining the Legion." If you choose to act overly confident, she will remark, "Is that confidence, or bravado? Confidence I can use. Bravado gets soldiers killed. We'll soon find out." If you instead ask her to elaborate on the test itself, she will explain: "The kind that evaluates your usefulness during... duress. I'm sending you to clear out Fort Hraagstad [sic]. If you survive, you'll pass. If you die, then I'll have no further use for your corpse." She will then explain what can be expected at the fort: "The ancients built many of the fortresses that dot the landscape of Skyrim. Sadly, most have fallen into disrepair. And nearly all have been overrun with bandits or other vagabonds. Fort Hraagstad is one of the few that remains mostly intact. We're going to install a garrison there, but first, your [sic] going to clean out the bandits that have moved in." If you ask if you are to be alone on the mission, she will repeat: "Oh, not so confident now, are we? Yes. This is a test. I don't think you're regular militia material. I want to see what you're capable of." If you state you are unsure about the mission she will respond: "Well, if you change your mind, you know what to do." If you accept the mission she will instead say: "Good. That's what I want to hear. Now go make it happen, soldier." Approach her again and she will be annoyed: "What's the matter, soldier? I gave you an order. I want that fort, and I want it now. Move it!" If you have already visited Fort Hraggstad and cleared it, she will be quite surprised: "Is that so? I was right about you."

After your visit to Fort Hraggstad, you will find Rikke and Tullius at their usual spot near the strategy map. She will seek you out and say, "Welcome back, soldier. I'm glad you made it in one piece. I'll send men to garrison the fort right away. You did well. I'm impressed. But before we go any further, it's time for you to officially join the Legion. Speak with General Tullius. He'll administer the oath." After taking the oath, Rikke will have a special assignment for you as the newest recruit of the legion: The Jagged Crown.

The Jagged Crown[edit]

If you eavesdrop on Rikke and Tullius' heated debate, it becomes clear that Rikke has her fair share of problems with the Imperial general, especially when it comes to using Nord traditions and lore as a weapon in warfare:

Tullius: "Tell me again, why I'm wasting men chasing after a fairy tale."
Rikke: "If Ulfric gets his hand on that crown, it won't be a fairy tale. It'll be a problem."
Tullius: "Don't you Nords put any stock in your own traditions? I thought the Moot chose the king. We're backing Elisif. When the Moot meets, they'll do the sensible thing."
Rikke: "Not everyone's agreed to the Moot. You've been here long enough to know that Nords aren't always sensible. We follow our hearts."
Tullius: "So what - Ulfric gets this crown and then suddenly he's High King?"
Rikke: "No, it's not as simple as that, but the Jagged Crown would be a potent symbol for his cause to rally around. But, if we found it first..."
Tullius: "And we gave it to Elisif?"
Rikke: "In the absence of the Moot, it would further legitimize her claim."
Tullius: "Perhaps... I'm entrusting you with what resources I can spare. But I'm warning you, if this turns out to be a waste of time and men..."
Rikke: "It won't be a waste."
Tullius: "Make sure you take the Auxiliary here. You can send him/her back when you get there and find nothing but old bones and cobwebs."
Rikke: "The Stonefist's no fool. He's found the Crown. But we'll get to it first."

She then turns to you: "Welcome to the Legion, auxiliary. Listen up. Ulfric's right-hand man, Galmar Stonefist, has located what he believes is the final resting place of the Jagged Crown. We're going to make sure he doesn't get his hands on it. The rest of my men are already assembling outside Korvanjund. I'll meet you there as soon as I finish up here." At this point, you can ask Rikke several questions. Regarding the crown, she will explain: "A legendary crown, dating back to King Harald's time, or before. A powerful relic of a golden age, long since passed. Legend has it that the crown is made from the bones and teeth of ancient dragons, and is said to increase the power of the wearer. Whatever the truth, if Ulfric get's his hands on it, it would be a powerful symbol around which to rally support for his cause." She will also explain how ' we' know the crown is in Korvanjund: "Well, to be frank, we don't. Its location was lost with King Borgas, when the Great Hunt killed him while off on his Alessian campaigns. Supposedly, his body was brought back to Skyrim and secretly buried with the crown. Knowledge of that location was lost, in the Wars of Succession. But my agents report that Galmar is pretty damned convinced Korvanjund is the tomb of King Borgas. I know Galmar. We fought in many wars together. He's not a sentimental man taken to fancy. If he believes the crown is there... he's likely found it." She will then finish conversation with the words, "You have your orders. Rendezvous with the rest of the men outside Korvanjund." or "Don't wait for me. Get to Korvanjund as soon as you're ready. I'll meet you there."

Legate Rikke will then travel to Korvanjund where she will join up with Hadvar and a number of Imperial Soldiers. When you arrive, she will be engaged in conversation with one of the soldiers:

Rikke: "What's the situation?"
Soldier: "Stormcloaks were already camped out around the entrance when we got here. They don't know we're here yet, though."
Rikke: "Well, that's something at least."

"Let's show these rebels what real soldiers look like."

She will then approach you and say, "Looks like the damned rebels got here first. No matter, we have the element of surprise. Prepare to move out. You ready, auxiliary?" If you ask her for a minute of preparation time, she will seem perturbed: "This isn't a damn summer picnic! Hurry up. We need to hit them before they know we're here." When you are prepared, Rikke will take a moment to give the men a pep talk: "Listen up, legionnaires. Those Stormcloaks are here for the same reason we are. Ulfric the Pretender wants that crown, but we're not going to let him have it. I realize some of you may know men on the other side. But remember this. They are the enemy now and will not hesitate to end your lives either. General Tullius is counting on us to bring back the Jagged Crown, and that's exactly what we're going to do. Let's show these rebels what real soldiers look like." After fighting the guards outside the entrance she will say, "The Stormcloaks are here in force. Stick close and follow orders so we don't stir up the whole place against us."

Just before entering, she will give yet another speech: "Well done. They never knew what hit them. But don't underestimate the Stormcloaks. Many are Legion veterans. They may be traitors, but they know how to fight. We had the advantage of surprise this time, but don't expect it to last. Let's move out." She will then lead the way into Korvanjund Temple and enter sneak mode, carefully making her way towards the patrolling Stormcloaks, whispering, "Everybody ready? We charge on my signal. Time to show what you're really made of." After the first wave of Stormcloaks, she will address the men again with "You two, stay and guard the entrance. We don't want any Stormcloak reinforcements taking us by surprise. Everyone else, with me." In the next room, she will stop once again, obviously suspicious:

Rikke: "I don't like the look of this. Perfect spot for an ambush. Ten to one they're just waiting for us on the other side."
Soldier: "But there isn't any other way through, Legate."
Rikke: "Let's not jump to conclusions, soldier. The Legion always finds a way. I'd rather take a moment and look around than walk blindly into an ambush. Auxiliary, see if you can find another way through. We'll charge in to help as soon as we hear fighting."

She will then repeat her orders to you: "There may be some way to get through on the level above. Hurry!" and "Maybe you can find a way through somewhere above us." After the battle in the next room, she will whisper: "Be careful men. There's bound to be more up ahead."

In the next room, Rikke and two soldiers will gather around a deceased draugr and say:

Soldier #1: "What in the nine holds is that?"
Soldier #2: "Is this what killed that Stormcloak over there? Can't be. It looks like it's been dead for a hundred years."
Rikke: "Steady now. The Legion has faced down worse than a few dusty old bonewalkers. We're not leaving here until we get what we came for. Now let's keep moving"

"And this must be the Hall of Stories."
"Alright, get the crown off that draugr!"

Moving on to Korvanjund Halls will lead to an interesting discovery: the Hall of Stories.

Rikke: "And this must be the Hall of Stories."
Soldier #1: "Oh... I've heard of this. These walls are supposed to show the history of the ancients who built this place."
Soldier #2: "Too bad we can't read these carvings. Who knows what secrets we'd uncover?"
Rikke: "One thing at a time soldier. Focus on our primary mission. We're searching for the crown. Looks like we weren't the first ones here, either. Even if these carvings tell us where the crown is, I'm sure we're going to have to find a way through this door. See what you can figure out auxillary, I'm going to check out these carvings over here. Let me know if you find something."

Rikke will then check out the carvings as promised, while waiting for you to find the ebony claw next to the dead Stormcloak soldier. When you pick it up, she will come over and say: "Hmm... what is that? Some kind of stone claw? I wonder what it's used for." Should you miss the combination and insert the claw in the keyhole, the darts will trigger and Rikke will yell: "Uh oh! Look out!" and add: "Careful! I wouldn't do that again unless you know for sure it's going to open." She will then provide some tips on how to use it: "Looks like the door will open if we turn these rings the right way. Maybe there's something on the claw itself that could help us." When the door is finally opened, she will order her men to follow with "Good job! Alright everyone! Keep your guard up. Let's move out!" Another dead-end awaits in the next room and Rikke will shout out: "Alright legionnaires! Spread out and see what we've got. Auxiliary, do what you do best. See if you can find some way to get that gate open." She will then stand around supervising the men, handing out orders and suggestions, such as "How's it going? You find anything yet?", "Keep looking. There's got to be some way to get that gate open." or "This may sound obvious, but do you see a lever anywhere?" When you release the lever, coffins will break open and draugr will come rushing out. Rikke remains calm and says, "Steady, legionnaires! We've been through worse. Just keep your guard up!" When the enemies are dead, she will say, "Follow me. Let's see where this leads." and rush through the door to Korvanjund Crypt.

In the crypt she will be oblivious to the remains of King Borgas sleeping in the throne and say, "The crown should be around here somewhere. Spread out, and keep your eyes open." When Hadvar carelessly approaches the sleeping draugr, coffins will break and Rikke will yell, "Hadvar... get away from there!" She will then rush to the podium and try to negotiate with the enemy: "Well, King... If you don't mind, we'll just take that crown of yours and be on our way." When the boss-leveled draugr draws his sword, she will attack with the words, "Have it your way. Let's get that crown men!" After the battle, she will say, "Alright, get the crown off that draugr!" If you talk to her instead, she will repeat: "Get the crown already. We don't need to hang around here any longer than necessary." When you have claimed the crown, she will give you her last order: "Take that crown back to Solitude, soldier. We'll stay here and see if we can find anything else that could be of use."

Battle for Whiterun[edit]

"For the Empire! For the Legion!"

Once Ulfric Stormcloak returns Balgruuf's War Axe to Balgruuf the Greater a Stormcloak attack on Whiterun is inevitable and Balgruuf will have no choice but to accept assistance from the Imperial Legion. When you return to Dragonsreach you will find several Imperial Soldiers, along with Legate Quentin Cipius who will quickly point you towards Legate Rikke in the front line, thus starting Battle for Whiterun. Just outside the city gates, Rikke will be positioned on the strategically important drawbridge, busy addressing a crowd of fully-armed Imperial Soldiers, calling out loud:

"This is it men! This is an important day for the Empire and for the Legion. And for all of Skyrim. This is the day we send a message to Ulfric Stormcloak and the rebel Jarls who support him. But make no mistake. What we do here today, we do for Skyrim and her people. By cutting out the disease of this rebellion, we will make this country whole again! Ready now! Everyone, with me! For the Empire! For the Legion! Rrrrrraaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!!!!"

She will then draw her sword and run headfirst into the waves of Stormcloak soldiers and slash away, carefully retreating if they manage to break through the lines of defense. After the battle is over, Rikke will position herself in front of the Whiterun gate and listen to Balgruuf's gratitude speech. This will begin the quest Reunification of Skyrim and you are told to report to General Tullius back in Solitude.

Reunification of Skyrim[edit]

SR-icon-Imperial Legion.png

Reunification of Skyrim is an umbrella quest for several smaller quests, all leading towards total Imperial domination of Skyrim. General Tullius will hand you the objectives while Legate Rikke will provide the quests. The order, or even the existence, of the seven possible quests can change depending on your choices during Season Unending. See this table for details.

When the quest is triggered, Rikke will be found in Castle Dour, fully armed and ready for battle. As soon as General Tullius orders you to regain one of the possible eight holds, Rikke will travel all the way to the corresponding Imperial Camp and await your arrival.

A False Front

Rikke in the field.

When Tullius asks you to regain the Pale, Rikke will show up in the snowy Pale Imperial Camp east of hold capital Dawnstar, Rikke will be located in the easternmost tent, busy studying a huge regional map of Skyrim. When you approach her she will let you in on her plan to conquer the Pale: "I need you to deliver some false orders to the Stormcloak commander in Dawnstar. But first we need to get our hands on some rebel orders to make the forgeries. The Nightgate and Candlehearth inns are frequent stops for Stormcloak runners. See if you can't "convince" one of those innkeepers to help you. One way or another, get me those documents. But don't do anything rash if you go to Windhelm."

When you return to the camp with the documents in hand, Legate Rikke will take them and say, "Very good... Let's see what you have here. Interesting... They know more of our plans than I expected... It would seem Fort Dunstad is in need of reinforcements... We'll make sure they won't be getting those... One moment while I "correct" some of these documents... That should do it. Make sure those forged documents get to the Stormcloak commander in Dawnstar. It'll throw him off our trail, allowing us to maneuver more freely." After delivering the false intelligence to the Stormcloak commander in Dawnstar, the quest will be completed. When you return to the camp and speak to Rikke, she will reward you with the words: "Good job! I knew I gave the mission to the right person." She will then be ready to order the attack on the now weakened Fort Dunstad, starting the quest The Battle for Fort Dunstad (see this section).

Compelling Tribute[edit]

Rift Imperial Camp is well hidden far east from hold capital Riften and Rikke will be present near her map, where she will readily tell you the plan to regain the Rift, initiating the quest Compelling Tribute: "You're going to Riften. My spies report the Jarl's Steward, Anuriel, has arrangements with the Thieves Guild that would be rather embarrassing if made public. I need you to find evidence of her corrupt activities, and use it to gain a measure of her "cooperation." This will require stealth and discretion. The Jarl's guards won't take kindly to anyone rummaging through her Steward's private quarters." When you accept, she will remark, "Good. I can always count on you, can't I?" When you return from Riften and Anuriel with news about the coin shipment, she will hand you the next part of the assignment with "Excellent work. I knew you'd bring back something useful. It just so happens, I've got some scouts along the road. Meet up with them, and together see if you can't overpower the caravan." When you return to camp, she will say "Good work. I'll send some men with a wagon to collect the prize. We can use the weapons here, and I'll pass on the coin to Solitude." When you ask for new orders, the quest The Battle for Fort Greenwall will begin (see this section).

Rescue from Fort Kastav[edit]

When General Tullius asks you to regain Winterhold, Rikke will relocate to the Winterhold Imperial Camp and await your arrival. When you report to her, she will task you with a special rescue mission, starting the quest Rescue from Fort Kastav: "Your objective is Fort Kastav. The rebels are keeping some of our men prisoner there. I aim to turn that into an advantage. I've sent men to scout out the area. You are to meet them, find a way to slip in, free our men, and take over the fort. They won't be expecting an attack from the inside. This won't be easy, but that's why I'm sending you. Think you can handle it?"

Battle Quests[edit]

As Reunification of Skyrim progresses, General Tullius will ask you to regain any holds still controlled by the Stormcloaks. This results in Rikke traveling around to the various camps in Skyrim, giving you an enemy held fort to conquer. All objectives are radiant versions of the same quest, and Rikke's dialogue will only differ slightly, although her location will.
Note that it is possible to regain the Rift and the Pale twice, provided you completed A False Front and Compelling Tribute before Season Unending - and only if you give the two holds back to the Stormcloaks as part of the peace treaty.

The following table shows the four possible battle quests:

Rikke Dialogue Conquer Regain Rikke Location Quest Given
"Your objective is Fort Dunstad." Fort Dunstad The Pale Pale Imperial Camp The Battle for Fort Dunstad
"Your objective is Fort Greenwall." Fort Greenwall The Rift Rift Imperial Camp The Battle for Fort Greenwall
"Your objective is Fort Sungard." Fort Sungard The Reach Reach Imperial Camp The Battle for Fort Sungard
"Your objective is Fort Snowhawk." Fort Snowhawk Hjaalmarch Hjaalmarch Imperial Camp The Battle for Fort Snowhawk

After telling you the objective, she will always follow it up with, "Meet the soldiers preparing for the attack. Then join them in wiping out the rebels. Once you prevail we will garrison the fort."

When you accept the mission, she will choose a random response and send you on your way:
"I knew I could count on you, soldier."
"Good luck out there."
"We do this for the good of Skyrim and her people. Never forget that."
"Make me proud."
"May the gods keep you."
"Stay sharp out there."
"Good. Make it it happen, soldier."
"Show the rebels the futility of their cause."
"As long as the rebels are willing to die fighting the Empire, we must be willing to oblige them."
"Peace may yet return to Skyrim. But until then, we fight."

The Battle for Fort Amol[edit]

When only Eastmarch remains, General Tullius will promote you to Legate, and tell you to prepare for the final attack on Windhelm. Rikke will now be found in the Eastmarch Imperial Camp. When you report for duty, she'll say, "Your objective is the enemy held fort. Meet the soldiers preparing for the attack. Then join them in wiping out the rebels. Once you prevail we will garrison the fort." This will start the quest The Battle for Fort Amol.

When you report back after a job well done, Rikke will be excited as it is now time to hit the Stormcloak headquarters and capital, Windhelm. First, she will hand you a leveled gold reward with the words, "Good job! I knew I gave the mission to the right person." When you ask for another job, she will drop the bomb:" We're taking the city. Meet the soldiers gathering for the attack. Move it!" This will start the final quest Battle for Windhelm.

Battle for Windhelm[edit]

During the attack on Windhelm, General Tullius himself will fight alongside Legate Rikke and his army of legionnaires and will give a heartfelt speech just outside the city gates. Rikke will not make it in time for the speech, but will join you once you enter Windhelm, hacking and slashing on the many waves of Stormcloak soldiers protecting the Palace of the Kings. Only Rikke and Tullius will follow you inside for the final showdown against Ulfric Stormcloak and Galmar Stone-Fist. Tullius and Rikke will try and make Ulfric surrender peacefully, but to no avail:

"Skyrim doesn't belong to you, Ulfric."

Tullius: "Secure the door."
Rikke: "Already done, sir."
Tullius: "Ulfric Stormcloak! You are guilty of insurrection, murder of Imperial citizens, the assassination of King Torygg, and high treason against the Empire. It's over."
Galmar: "Not while I'm still breathing, it's not."
Rikke: "Step aside Galmar. We're here to accept Ulfric's surrender."
Ulfric: "I'll never surrender Skyrim into the hands of a corrupt and dying Empire."
Rikke: "Skyrim doesn't belong to you, Ulfric."
Ulfric: "No... But I belong to her."
Tullius: "Enough! You are traitors and will die traitors' deaths. Stand down and face public execution, or advance and face summary execution by my hands. It matters little to me. Either way I'll be sending your heads back to Cyrodiil."
Galmar: "Well? What are we waiting for?"

The three of them will then draw their weapons and engage in combat, with Rikke and Tullius going after Ulfric while Galmar goes after you. When Galmar is dead and Ulfric is kneeling on the floor, Tullius will sheathe his sword and once again prove how little he knows about Nord traditions:

Tullius: "Well Ulfric, you can't escape from me this time. Any last requests before I send you to... to wherever you people go when you die."
Rikke: "Sovngarde... sir."
Tullius: "Right. Well?"
Ulfric: "Let the Dragonborn be the one to do it. It'll make for a better song."
Tullius: "Song or not, I just want it done."

When Ulfric meets his demise by either you or Tullius, a mournful Rikke will say goodbye to her old friend:

"Talos be with you..."
"Attention! General Tullius has an announcement!"

Rikke: "Talos be with you..."
Tullius: "What was that, Legate?"
Rikke: "Nothing. Just saying goodbye."
Tullius: "Well, the men will be expecting some kind of speech. And we'll need to hand the city over to that Free-Winter fellow."
Rikke: "Brunwulf. Yes, I've sent men to protect him and bring him here. Windhelm will need a government quickly if we are to prevent more violence."
Tullius: "The Legion will be staying here for quite some time. I don't expect there to be any further violence."

They will then leave the Palace of the Kings and Rikke will call out to the crowd of soldiers:

Rikke: "Attention! General Tullius has an announcement!"
Tullius: "The rebellion is over. Ulfric Stormcloak is dead. His head will be sent to Cyrodiil where it will adorn a spike on the walls of the Imperial City. Let this day be a final warning to all who would still call themselves Stormcloaks. We are turning the city over to Brunwulf Free-Winter, an honorable and faithful man. Many of you will be staying in Windhelm to aid the Jarl in restoring order and stamping out any embers of rebellion that may still smolder here. In appreciation for your exemplary service, I am doubling your pay and compensation to the widows of your fallen comrades. I am proud of all of you. All hail the Emperor. All hail his Legionnaires!" (quietly):"I hate giving speeches."
Rikke: "It wasn't so bad."
Tullius: "I hope we haven't just created a martyr."
Rikke: "There's bound to be resistance. There are many Stormcloak camps tucked away in the hills. They'll no doubt strike whenever and wherever they can. But without Ulfric to inflame their passions, they'll settle down and return to their homes eventually."
Tullius: "I pray you're right, Legate. In the meantime, we'll continue to root them out and put them to the sword."

Rikke will then walk all the way back to Castle Dour in Solitude, but will provide a few final thoughts if you talk to her. If you ask her if there is anything else you can do for the Legion, her response will be, "The Legion's work is far from finished, but you are free to roam. I suspect you'll be of greater good to Skyrim out there, in the world. If while you're out there, you stumble into any Stormcloak military camps, I expect you to destroy them. I've reports they are hiding in the hills." When asked if peace has come to Skyrim, she will remind you, "There are those who still call themselves Stormcloaks, who continue to fight us, and bring misery to the people... but they are few in number. The ordinary citizen will be happy to get back to life as normal, to have their families return home. And they should enjoy it while they can... I suspect all of Tamriel will again be called to arms in the not too distant future." Finally, when asked what is next for the accomplished Rikke, she will say, "The General's put me in charge of assisting the new governments. I may understand things here in Skyrim better than the General, but I'm a soldier at heart, not a politician. But I'll do my best. This is the land of my birth, the land that shaped me. I'm proud to have any part in making it strong again."

Season Unending[edit]

"You're lucky I respect the Greybeards' council, Galmar!"

When Esbern suggests that capturing a dragon in Dragonsreach may be the only way to get to Alduin, Jarl Balgruuf the Greater will be understandably hesitant if the Civil War still rages. As a result, you will have to arrange a peace meeting between the Imperials and Stormcloaks in High Hrothgar, starting the quest Season Unending. When you have convinced General Tullius to show up, Rikke will comment: "Talking peace with Ulfric? You must be an optimist." She will then travel all the way to High Hrothgar and take a seat at the negotiation table, commenting, "I'm glad I finally got a chance to see this place.", "We should get started." or "You've done well, to even get the two of them in the same room." As the meeting unfolds, she will occasionally make statements, depending on where the discussion goes:

Condition Dialogue
When Ulfric complains about Elenwen's presence. "That didn't take long."
If Elenwen leaves the negotiation. "You're lucky I respect the Greybeards' council, Galmar!"
After Rikke gets angry. "Sorry, sir. It won't happen again."
After Elenwen says: "After all, it's not the Thalmor that's burning your farms and killing your sons." "She's supposed to be on our side?"
After Ulfric declares that he has something to say before the meeting begins. "Here we go."
After Ulfric's first statement. "I knew he wouldn't be able to resist."
After the line "I'm sure Jarl Ulfric does not expect something for nothing." "Yes, that'd be entirely out of character."
After Tullius' "We want compensation." "You slaughtered the very people you claim to be fighting for! True sons of Skyrim would never do such things."
After Ulfric's "We want compensation." "That's a lie! My legionnaires are disciplined, unlike your..."
If the negotiations favor the Legion. "I'd give a week's pay to see the look on Ulfric's face again, when he had to swallow the terms of the truce."
If the negotiations favor the Stormcloaks. "I hope this truce gives you what you need. It won't last."

Battle for Solitude[edit]

If you side with the Stormcloak rebellion, you will have no choice but to participate in the Battle for Solitude alongside Ulfric Stormcloak and his second-in-command, Galmar Stone-Fist. After a long and exhausting battle in the streets of Solitude, you will finally reach Castle Dour where you will find General Tullius seated on a chair in disbelief, while Rikke will stand up, prepared to fight. A final confrontation is inevitable, but you will witness a melancholic conversation between the three old friends:

"A true Nord never fears death."

Ulfric: "Secure the door."
Galmar: "Already done."
Rikke: "Ulfric. Stop."
Ulfric: "Stop what? Taking Skyrim back from those who'd leave her to rot?"
Rikke: "You're wrong. Ulfric. We need the Empire. Without it Skyrim will assuredly fall to the Dominion."
Galmar: "You were there with us. You saw it. The day the Empire signed that damn treaty was the day the Empire died."
Ulfric: "The Empire is weak, obsolete. Look at how far we've come and with so little. When we're done rooting out Imperial influence here at home, then we will take our war to the Aldmeri Dominion."
Rikke: "You're a damn fool."
Galmar: "Stand aside woman. We've come for the General."
Rikke: "He has given up. But I have not."
Ulfric: "Rikke. Go. You're free to leave."
Rikke: "I'm also free to stay and fight for what I believe in."
Ulfric: "You're also free to die for it."
Rikke: "This is what you wanted? Shield brothers and sisters killing each other? Families torn apart? This is the Skyrim you want?!"
Galmar: "Damnit woman, stand aside."
Rikke: "That's not the Skyrim I want to live in."
Ulfric: "Rikke. You don't have to do this."
Rikke: "You've left me no choice... Talos preserve us."

At any point you can approach a sad Rikke, who accept the defeat: "Dragonborn... Perhaps this is the fate of Skyrim after all. To be destroyed from the inside." If you try and convince her to leave or be killed, she will say: "If that must be, then it will. And why should I be any different? How many the lives already lost. What's one more?" If you threaten her, she will accept her fate: "A true Nord never fears death. It's the how and why of it that one needs consider." After these final words, Rikke and Tullius will both draw their swords and give Ulfric and Galmar the hardest time possible, but to no avail. Before long, Legate Rikke will be dead and on her way to Sovngarde, followed by the execution of General Tullius, the final defeat of the Imperial Legion.

Sovngarde[edit]

Rikke in Sovngarde

If you sided with the Stormcloaks in the Civil War, Rikke will die at the end of the quest line. However, if she is dead by the time you reach Sovngarde as part of the Main Quest, you will encounter Rikke in the afterlife, sitting helpless on a rock in the mist outside the Hall of Valor, unable to find her way and seemingly scared of being consumed by Alduin. When you get near her she will sadly admit: "The bitter war of the world beyond was all for naught. We are all trapped in Alduin's web - for our allegiance he cares not, but devours us equally - doom unescapable. Shor as well - he welcomes all heroes to his kingly hall, if we could but reach it." You can do nothing but leave her behind and proceed to fight Alduin so her soul can find rest in Sovngarde. When Alduin has been defeated, the mist will disappear from Sovngarde and Rikke will get up to thank you sincerely for lifting the curse of the World-Eater. She will then walk towards the Hall of Valor to spend the rest of time in Shor's house.

Greetings[edit]

All through the Imperial Legion quest line, Rikke will greet you in different ways, once again showing mixed emotions about her role in the Civil War:

Dialogue
"The general expects so much with so little."
"The sooner we end this rebellion, the sooner I'll be able to sleep at night."
"Ulfric... what have you done my old friend?"
"Stormcloaks... even the name of their rebellion stinks of Ulfric's vanity. He wants to be king. That's all this is about. One man's ambition."
"I don't fight for the glory of the Empire, nor do I glory in the death of my kinsmen. I fight to bring peace and order to my homeland."
"Damnit! Why can't Ulfric see he's tearing Skyrim to pieces?"
"Sometimes I wonder if the gods have abandoned us... as we have abandoned them."
"What I do, I do for Skyrim and her people."
"When we destroy the rebellion, perhaps the Thalmor will call off their damned inquisitions. It's just making things worse."
"Sometimes I miss being out there in the middle of the action."
"The General and I have our disagreements, but he's the best hope for both the Empire and Skyrim."
"Many of my countrymen joined the rebels. They can't see the big picture. Skyrim needs the Empire as much as it needs us."

Notes[edit]

Bugs[edit]

  • Rikke was supposed to live a more relaxed life in Solitude, which included an evening stroll in the streets between 7pm and 11pm, and sleeping in a bed between midnight and 6am. However, her CastleCommand package always takes precedence, so she stays near the map and General Tullius, even after the quest line is completed.
  • At various points throughout the Reunification of Skyrim questline, Legate Rikke may not give you the next mission or will not acknowledge you "reporting for duty".
    • PC Xbox.svg The most reliable way to bypass this bug is to go to any indoor location and wait/rest for 30+ days. This allows all location cells to refresh, and the next time you travel to the Winterhold Imperial Camp, Legate Rikke will offer the "Reporting for Duty" dialog option. Confirmed on Xbox360 and PC.