User blog comment:Hippogriff12/The Scarcity of Racists in Skyrim/@comment-5302371-20120728161339/@comment-5135631-20120728221159

Hmmm, I certaintly like Balgruuf, but while it might seem Ulfric's actions are rushed, I can assure you, they are not, just watch him speak with Galmar. It seems they are rushed because he does it all so quickly and catches everyone off guard, which is where Torygg's death played it's part. I don't think Kingslaying is good most of the time, but surely asking Torygg to declare independence would be risky, as he would either do it in a public audience, with the Empire watching (thus giving them a reason to execute him for treason) or in private meeting, but even then Imperial officials would still be present. By killing Torygg, he shows the Empire he is serious, though if Torygg was his acknowledged friend, it is certaintly a gruesome thing to do, however necessary, but I guess that's just the Nord way.

His inconsistency may come in handy when Skyrim comes to blows with the Thalmor.

I know it may seem like Ulfric is weakening Skyrim, but as I explained just now, the Empire wouldn't have let Skyrim slip through their fingers, and as I explained before on a different blog, Skyrim actually stands a better chance alone against the Thalmor than under the Empire's protection.http://elderscrolls.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Spritydove/Deeper_Thought_into_the_Civil_War

Point taken about Sybille Stentor though. I like her, and she's probably telling the truth.