Kodlak Whitemane

"'Lets not waste too much time talking when there is glory to be had!' ""~Kodlak Whitemane during the battle against Alduin, 4E 201"Kodlak Whitemane was an equestrian born Nordic warrior, who served as the Harbinger of the Companions until his death in 4E 201.

He is a major character in TES V: Skyrim.

Background
Kodlak was found by the previous Harbinger, Askar, in Hammerfell. Sometime after this, Kodlak succeeded Askar as Harbinger. Kodlak has commanded the Companions for twenty years, balancing his tactical skill, ferocity in combat, and commanding presence. But those days are drawing to a close.

One year before the return of the dragons, Kodlak contracted the rot. His condition has reached its final stages of deterioration, making him weak in body. In frustration, he has taken to locking himself behind closed doors and poring over old documents, desperate to cure himself of lycanthropy before the rot ends his life.

Prediction of Emperor Titus II
Just before the arrival of the Dragonborn, Titus Mede II, a dream came to Kodlak. As he describes in his journal, he dreamed of Tsun denying the former Harbingers access to Shor's Hall, where honored heroes gather. One by one, their wolf spirit drags them to Hircine, to hunt with him forever. A large black dragon, Alduin, then appears, and joins Hircine in dragging the Harbingers away, along with a thick mist.

Kodlak helplessly watches as his turn comes and his beast attacks him. However, a stranger arrives to protect him. This person drives back the beast, slays the dragon, and saves his soul. After seeing Titus Mede II for the first time, Kodlak recognizes them as that person and thus allows him to become a Companion.

Personality
Kodlak Whitemane proves to be a benign and wise individual for such a rowdy group. As Harbinger, he is the one that helps channel the Companions' skills in a way that can benefit Skyrim's people, rather than leaving them to brawl and drink all day long.

His wisdom is respected throughout the nine holds, as well. When Emperor Titus Mede II first meets Kodlak, he is in his twilight years. He has lost his will to win glory in battle, partially because his body cannot allow it. He hints annoyance at this limitation, but he never openly complains.

Funeral: 5th of Hearthfire, 4E 201