If you were transported to Skyrim, knew nothing about Tamriel beforehand, and the events at the intro happened to you? Would you follow Ralof or Hadvar? Or do something else?

Ralof, I think most people would go with him.

Yeah I think Id follow him as well. After all, the Empire just tried to

Why wouldn't I go with Ralof?

I don't really believe that I'd be following the guy who was just attempting to separate my head from my body. I think Id follow the nice fugitive who tried to at least get to know me before I was killed for being an inconvenience by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

... nvmd

I misread the OP.

I think the only reason people would follow Hadvar from a RP perspective is the fact that he has a weapon and can defend himself, while Ralof is a prisoner and has nothing.

Despite being an Empire supporter, I would go with Ralof.

I did go with Ralof on my very first playthrough, too. He seemed like a good guy.

Yes, I think most people would go with Ralof. But it would be interesting to see if anyone would go with Hadvar, and why. Or if they would do something else.

I think I would try to escape on my own. I don't think I would trust the Imperials enough to even follow Hadvar towards the keep. He seems nice, but apparently won't stand up for me against his superiors. What if we had met the captain in the keep, and not Stormcloaks?

Hadvar shows compassion and reason. He even protects you across the yard. There is a seed of trust planted there.

Ralof