I object to having (*checks*) 37 murders on my criminal record. I'm just about certain that every one of those is a result of me inflicting rightful justice on Thalmor patrols, or on Imperials escorting a prisoner (I don't attack Imperials when they're just patrolling - it doesn't seem right to me). Is there a way of setting some parameter via the console so that me blasting icy prongs of justice through the heads of Justiciars is not counted as murder? Just today, I freed a Stormcloak prisoner from a Thalmor escort near Dragonbridge and was frankly appalled to see that I'd copped for a £2000 Whiterun bounty. How can I be punished for killing Thalmor in Whiterun?!
My character is scrupulously moral and upright. It is a serious detriment to RP for him to also be a prolific serial killer. I don't like this at all, and would appreciate any suggestions. Also, if anyone knows exactly what constitutes murder and assault in the game, I'd be glad to have the definitions.
Edited to add: Yes I know, 2000 Septims. Not pounds. Sorry.
In Skyrim:
Murder:
Assault:
If someone witnesses your attack who has a high responsibility rating and is able to report to a guard (I think if the guard is in a loaded cell), you will get a bounty. This includes the prisoners being transported by opposing factions. You cannot free the prisoner by attacking the party first and expect to get away scot free. You have to unbind the prisoner first to make the party attack you, then you can kill them with no repercussions.
That's most useful, thank you. Of course I object strenuously to this policy on Thalmor extermination being murder, rather than vermin control, but there it is. And now I think about it I do kill all Forsworn on sight without hesitation, so that must impact on my stats.
"You have to unbind the prisoner first to make the party attack you, then you can kill them with no repercussions." - now THAT is worth learning. Armed with this knowledge, I aim to misbehave.