Can you find Balgruuf after Battle of Whiterun?
The Battle of Whiterun, also known as the Fall of Whiterun, is a pivotal event in the Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, occurring when the Stormcloaks, led by Ulfric Stormcloak, take control of the city of Whiterun, marking a significant turning point in the Civil War. For fans of the game, this raises an important question: what happens to Jarl Balgruuf after the Battle of Whiterun?
In Whiterun, If Imperials Win
If you side with the Empire, Jarl Balgruuf remains in his position as the Jarl of Whiterun, serving as the ruler of the city. He throws his support behind the Empire and allows General Tullius to use Whiterun as a staging ground from which to attack Dawnstar.
In Whiterun, If Stormcloaks Win
However, if you join the Stormcloaks, Jarl Balgruuf loses the Battle of Whiterun and is forced into exile. Vignar Gray-Mane, the Gray-Mane’s Companions’ leader, becomes the new Jarl of Whiterun.
Is Balgruuf Imprisoned or Banished?
If the Stormcloaks win the Battle of Whiterun, Balgruuf is not imprisoned or captured. Instead, he flees the city and takes refuge in the Blue Palace in Solitude, where he meets up with Irileth and other loyalists.
What Happens to Follower?
Despite his defeat, Balgruuf’s follower will not abandon him. They will still remain loyal to their lord and continue to fight for the Empire.
A Note on Elisif and the Empire
As noted in the game’s lore, the ban on Talos worship was introduced to weaken the Empire, which allowed the Thalmor to conquer it if necessary. This highlights the tension between the Empire’s need for unity and its rigid adherence to its doctrine, which ultimately contributed to its downfall.
Other Aspects of the Civil War
The Civil War has far-reaching consequences in the world of Skyrim, and the fate of Jarl Balgruuf serves as a microcosm of the larger struggle. The war is characterized by the conflict between those who support the Empire, viewing it as a force of stability and order, and those who support the Stormcloaks, believing the Empire to be tyrannical and oppressive. Both sides have their reasons and motivations, and the choice to side with either will have significant implications for the game’s story and character development.
Table Summary
| Situation | Result | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Empire Wins | Balgruuf remains Jarl | Whiterun |
| Stormcloaks Win | Balgruuf loses power, flees, and takes refuge | Solitude (Blue Palace) |
| Follower Loyalty | Remains loyal, continues to fight | Varied |
In conclusion, the fate of Jarl Balgruuf is a significant aspect of the Civil War in Skyrim, with his defeat serving as a turning point in the conflict. Whether the Empire or the Stormcloaks emerge victorious, his ultimate fate is a reflection of the larger themes and stakes of the game’s storyline.