One criticism of The Elder Scrolls' lore is that, by and large, very little changes over huge periods of time. The Thalmor were operating as far north as Skyrim in the last game, so it is very likely that they will have a strong presence in a province so close to their home in the Summerset Isles as well. The Redguards were able to take back the south eventually, but it is very likely the Aldmeri Dominion’s looming shadow and military might will be heavily present in the next game. The Emperor Titus Mede II released Hammerfell but also rendered the Imperial legionaries stationed in the area “invalid,” essentially allowing them to continue to fight with the resources they already had while avoiding a diplomatic incident. When the Redguards continued to fight back against the Aldmeri Dominion's forces, the Empire was forced to release the province from its control in order to avoid war breaking out once again.

After the Great War between the Dominion and the fledgling Mede dynasty, the southern part of Hammerfell was made a part of the Dominion, much to the fury of the Redguards. They have particular relevance in the west of the continent, where the next game is rumored to be set as well. The Aldmeri Dominion is the dominant military force in Tamriel by the time Skyrim is set, in the 4th Era.

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