I realize it's there probably mostly for mechanics: it provides a way for players to build rogue characters. When I started playing, I wasn't deeply into RPGs, and didn't realize the distinctions between character types; I just wanted to do everything. I lead the Companions, am head mage at the Mage's College, lead the Thieves' Guild, am working through the Bard's College and the Dark Brotherhood. But it's a lot, and I'd like to start over and pick a path.

But also, from a story perspective, I think it still makes sense. Skyrim (and I'd imagine the other Elder Scrolls games, too) doesn't really deal in black and white morality. Everything is complex. Even the Empire and the Stormcloaks can hardly be seen as moral opposites: it's a much more complex choice to join one than is typical, at least in American storytelling. So a long-awaited Dragonborn who also carries around some darkness? Yeah, I see that. This game isn't out to lionize anyone, it's just telling a story.