Board Thread:Lore Discussion/@comment-186.215.22.127-20130215011559/@comment-3186827-20130217041104

Lots of misinformation and speculation in this topic.

Firstly, he was in no way an Imperial. Even if his grandson was Pelagius Septim, it means nothing because in the TES universe, you inherit the race of your mother.

Nor was he a Nede. Nedes and Atmorans are not the same. It's actually a common misconception, but that's another story.

His race is actually up for debate - There are two beliefs:

1) "Imperial Orthodoxy" -  He was an Atmoran who came to Skyrim in his youth. Became General Talos, Fought for Cuhlecain who was later assassinated. Became emperor then eventually became Talos. This is established lore that the Empire believe.

2) "The Arcturian Heresy" - He was a native of High Rock called Hjalti. Fought for Cuhlecain but eventually murdered him. Became emperor.