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Chapter Text

Darkness. That’s all there was, all that Serana could see, feel, touch, and smell, and this damned scroll. What went wrong? Serana thought to herself. What happened that led me to get stuck in a stone box, trapped with this scroll hundreds of feet underground? Her father. Him and his stupid prophecy. “For the better of our kind,” he always told her. Just thinking about his condescending tone made Serana want to tear the scroll in half. Unfortunately, she didn’t have the tools to make that possible.

***

In Serana’s dreams, she could see her mother tending her garden. It was beautiful, her nightshade glowed a bright violet, and the pond close to it reflecting the moon onto itself. As Serana approached her mother, who was currently fiddling with the moon dial, quickly shooed Serana away, not even making eye contact.

“Not now dear, I’m working on a project of mine.” Serana frowned, looking over at the deathbells that were in perfect condition. “But-” Before she could finish her sentence, Serana awoke to a sound, the sound of a sharp spike driving into someone's hand. This was followed by a scream from what sounded like a woman: “Gods dammit, My hand!” Serana pushed down her laughter.

Whoever was up there wasn’t part of her family, the voice wasn’t familiar. What followed silence, only the noise of stone pillars being moved around. Whoever it was, they were trying to open her tomb. Maybe she is part of the family. Serana thought to herself. Maybe one of the thralls, being commanded by her father who was too lazy to do it himself.

Serana’s mind drifted off to her mother. What if she had finally come back, to fulfill her plan to stop her father. Serana chuckled out loud. “Yeah right, she locked me up to get rid-” Both her theories seemed incorrect however because when the stone wall came off her tomb, she was met with a woman wearing armor that appears to be made of dragon scales. She had jet black hair up in a ponytail. And those eyes, bright blue eyes, like staring into an enchanted sea. So enchanting in fact, that she fell over, forgetting she was out of her tomb.

“Are you alright? You look out of it.” The woman said, reaching out her hand. Serana grabbed her hand, continuing to study her. The woman's stance was strong, and firm, maybe part of an army of some kind. Serana glanced at her large ears. She appeared to be an elf, Bosmer maybe. “Thanks for getting me out of there,” Serana said. The woman smiled. “No problem, the names Athena.”

The Bosmer looked at the scroll on Serena's back. “You have an Elder Scroll?” Serana chuckled. “Yeah, and it’s mine.” Athena looked at the scroll one again and reached into her bag, and surprisingly, there was another Elder Scroll. “I’ve actually got one of my own.”

 Serana smirked. “You’re not what I was expecting.” Athena looked puzzled, putting the scroll back in her bag. “Who were you expecting?” she asked. Serana sighed. “Someone more like me.”Athena's face went from puzzled to shocked almost instantly. “Are you a-” “Vampire, yes. If that’s a problem, I’m sure that-” Athena immediately grabbed her and slammed her against a pillar. “Give me a reason I shouldn’t kill you right now.” Serana, choking on her breath, tried to go for her dagger. 

“M-my father will r-reward you.” Athena loosened her grip. “I’m listening.” Serana glanced at Athena’s other hand, the one that didn’t have her pinned. It was unarmored, gauntlet taken off, with mild healing magic applied to it. Most likely the one that got injured due to the spike. Serana managed to wiggle out of Athena's grip and stab her injured hand with her dagger. 

Athena yelled in pain. “I’m gonna put your head on a pike!” Serana turned around to see Athena pulling the dagger out from her wound. Serana turned back and looked into Athena's ocean-like eyes, once calm and docile, her eyes were now filled with furious and angry waves. A sense of fear went down her spine. Serana calmed herself and smiled at Athena. “I’d like to see you try.”

Serana Looked back at the exit, a large staircase leading out of the dungeon with gargoyle statues on each side of the stairs. “You’re not going anywhere!” said Athena. Serana turned and laughed. “You’re not gonna stop me! Who will?” Athena pointed forward in front of Serana. “Them.” Serana turns back to see the gargoyles running towards her. Gods dammit. She thought to herself.

One of the gargoyles lunged at Serana, but she managed to dodge the incoming attack. As Serana was regaining her strength, Athena was fighting one of the beasts with a bow. The bow seemed to be ancient, and jet black like her hair. Serana shifted focus back to the gargoyle she was fighting, which was preparing to attack. Serana managed to conjure a frost spell, but that didn’t do much to the beast, just stagger it.

Athena, who had finished killing the one she was fighting, drew her bow and yelled at Serana, ”Get out of the way!” The hell was she doing? Serana thought to herself. “Just shoot the damned thing!” Serana shouted. Athena smirked at her. “If you say so.” As Serana was trying to fight off the gargoyle, Athena put away her bow. “What are y-” Before she could finish, her ears were filled with a loud and powerful: Fus Ro Dah! Both she and the gargoyle were sent off the edge of the platform that the exit to the dungeon was on. Serana managed to grab a ledge, the beast, however, wasn’t so fortunate. The Bosmer was at the ledge, looking at Serana struggling to hold on. “Help me, please!” Athena grabbed her hand and lifted her up with such confidence. Serana looked into her blue eyes again, they had returned to their calm ocean form, the same as when they first met. If it weren't for the fact that Athena had nearly killed her earlier, this wouldn’t be so terrifying.

This moment was ruined, however, when Athena drew her dagger and put it up to Serana’s neck. “You pull anything like that again, I’ll kill you where you stand.” Serana swallowed her fear and nodded. Dominant and pretty, I can get behind this, Serana thought to herself.

“You mentioned a reward for your return?” Athena asked. Serana looked up from an old tome she was reading. “He’ll give you something for my rescue. He lives on an island, near Solitude.” Athena took out a map. It had all kinds of markings on it, locations of bandit camps, daedric shrines, and other interesting locations. Serana pointed to where the island was, northwest of Solitude. “I know where we can find a boat,” Athena said. “I have a house on the coast, here .” She pointed to a drawing of a house, north of Morthal. Serana smiled. “We’re off then.”

As the two were leaving the dungeon, Serana heard Athena whisper under her breath. “This better be worth it.”

Chapter Text

Serana didn't expect the sun to be so damn hot. Plus she was already exhausted. Dealing with the gargoyles and the Draugr that followed was the most exercise she had done in centuries. The sun burning her skin didn’t help.

“I don’t know how you stand it out here,” Serana complained. Athena scowled at her. “Maybe it’s because I don’t need to sustain myself on other people's blood.” Serana sighed, as she put on her hood. “Don’t you have any potions or something? Anything that could help?” “I’ve got some herbs for your burns right here,” Athena said. She reached in her bag and pulled out a small pouch. Athena passed the pouch to Serana. 

When she opened the pouch, a foul stench emanated from whatever was in it. It’s a bag of Giant’s toes! Serana yelped and dropped the pouch. Athena fell on the ground cackling to herself, something Serana hadn’t heard in a long time. For a moment she wanted to drain Athena right there, but all she could do was groan in irritation. “Alright, this has been fun, but we should go,” Serana said, tapping her foot. Athena got up, still giggling to herself, and motioned her to follow.

The two walked for another 5 minutes until Athena stopped in her tracks. What is it now? Serana thought to herself. She tried asking what she was doing, but Athena shushed her quickly. Athena then whistled quickly and a pale white horse came running. “How did y-” Serana couldn’t even finish her sentence, out of astonishment (and exhaustion of walking in the sun for a while). Athena smirked. “It’s something I’ve learned from a friend. You’d be surprised how effective whistling can be when you have an allegiance to animals.” 

As the two were riding toward the house, Serana’s mind drifted off. She thought about her home, Castle Volkihar. She remembered sitting in her room, reading some stereotypical romance novel while looking at the ocean waves crash against the rocks near the island. She remembered sneaking under the castle and practicing her magic on the feral vampires there. Serana also remembered her father scolding her for going down there. In fact, her good memories always seemed to be tainted by her father.

***

“So,” Serana said, trying to break the silence of the ride. “So, you’re Dragonborn?” Athena huffed, Serana couldn’t see her face, but she could tell she was annoyed. “You sure do like asking questions, don’t you?” Serana sighed. “Come on, I want to know more about you.” “Fine, I’ll answer your questions,” Athena said reluctantly. “But you have to answer mine.”

“Ok then, you go first,” Serana said. It was quiet for a moment, just the noise of the clopping of the horse’s hooves on the road. “What do you know about that Elder Scroll?” Athena finally said. “Not much I’m afraid,” Serana explained. “I don’t know how to read it, turns out you don’t learn much about something by just sleeping with it.” The Bosmer giggled. “Are you saying you want to learn more about me?” Serana chuckled. “Not at this rate, no.” Athena laughed more, similar to when she tricked Serana with the giant’s toe. Her laugh seemed to fill Serana with warmth. She never had feelings like this before. Get a grip Serana. You were trapped underground for who-knows-how-long. Don’t fall for someone who tried to kill you.

“It's your turn then,” Athena said. Serana grabbed the bow Athena had used in their fight. “How did a Bosmer get the name ‘Athena’ anyway?” she said while continuing to examine the bow. “I was an orphan. I had Nord parents, they gave me the name. Grew up in Northern Cyrodiil, that’s probably why I’m more used to the frigid temperatures of Skyrim than other Bosmer.” 

Athena looked back at Serana to see her tracing her fingers on the insignia on her bow. It had a silver phoenix with a moon above it, along with other miscellaneous engravings. “What kind of bow is this?” She asked. Athena quickly grabbed the bow back from her and reholstered it. “It’s from a friend, a gift after I became Guildmaster,” Athena explained. Serana smirked. So she’s Dragonborn AND a Guildmaster? “Guildmaster of what?” She asked. Athena chuckled to herself. “That was three questions, so I believe it’s my turn.”

“How long were you locked down there?” Unfortunately, Serana didn’t have the answer to that question. It felt like she was down there for centuries, and maybe it had been. “Who’s Skyrim’s current High King?” She asked. “It’s up for debate, and the Moot hasn’t been chosen yet, but with Ulfric Stormcloak dead, Jarl Elisif is the only candidate,” Athena explained. “But she’s just a puppet for the Empire.” The Empire? How long have I been asleep? “What Empire?” Serana asked. “The Imperial Empire,” Athena said like Serana should know what she’s talking about. “from Cyrodiil.” Serana’s face turned red. Just the thought of her mother leaving her down there for that long made her blood boil (Which was also due to the sun cooking her undead flesh). Have I really been underground for that long? She thought. “I must have been down there for a long time. Definitely longer than we planned.”

“Why do you hate vampires so much anyway?” Serana asked. Athena fell silent, leaving her question unanswered. “There has to be a reason,” Serana continued. “You don’t just-” Before she could finish, Athena cut her off. “We’re here,” she said. Serana looked over Athena’s shoulder and could see a small manor. It was rather humble, only having two floors and, as they got closer, she could see a small alchemical garden and a stable.

A stern Nord woman was guarding the entrance. She had dark brown, shoulder-length hair, and she was wearing simple steel armor. “Welcome back, Thane,” she said, as Athena and Serana got off the horse. “Who’s this?” The woman asked, examining Serana. “Calm down Lydia,” Athena commanded. “I’m just escorting her home.” Serana managed a small smile. “I’m Serana,” she said, extending her hand for a handshake. “I take it you’re the guard here?” The Nord continued to analyze her until she gasped and reached for her sword.

“Ma’am, she-- she’s a vampire!” It seems that fear of vampires is rife in Skyrim. Serana thought to herself. “Can we get on with it?” she said. “I’ve already been through this with your ‘ Thane ’ here.” Athena got in-between the two with her hands up, commanding Lydia to stop. “Stand down! I’m taking precautions to-”

The confrontation was cut short when the doors to the manor opened and a small girl emerged from the manor. She looked young, no older than eight. She wore a red dress and had poorly done braids in her hair. She reminded Serana of herself when she was younger; innocent, and oblivious to the problems of the world. “Mama!” the small girl said as if it was the first time she saw her mother in years. Serana could relate to that.

“How was your day Runa?” Athena asked. “Today was great! Sven taught me a new song on the lute, and I got to practice archery with Lydia, and-” Her mother cut her off. “That’s great, sweetie. Why don’t you go fishing with Lydia?” She looked back at Lydia, who had put away her weapon and was still scowling at Serana. The Nord quickly put on a fake smile. Serana pushed down a laugh. “Come on Runa, let’s let your mother have a talk with our ‘vistiter’.” As the two were headed toward the nearby river, Lydia looked back at Serana and gave her a glare as if to say: If you try to sink your teeth into anyone’s neck, I will skin you alive.

“Hand me your dagger,” Athena commanded, putting out her hand like a mother who caught her child stealing. Serana sighed and dropped the dagger into the Bosmer’s hand. She put the dagger in her bag and pulled out a metal gauntlet. The gauntlet was rusted and covered in ash. It resembled scrap metal more than a piece of armor. “Put this on,” Athena said. Serana scoffed. “You expect me to wear that ? What does it even do?” “It’s a Dunmer slave gauntlet. It’ll prevent you from casting magic.”

As Serana put on the gauntlet, the metal seemed to shape around her arm, making it fit perfectly and impossible to take off. Immediately, she felt fatigued and sluggish. It’s not the first time I was at the mercy of somebody else. A sharp sting pierced her mind when she remembered that night, the night she became a Daughter of Coldharbour. Serana didn’t remember much of the actual ritual, (Which is probably a good thing) but Molag Bal was called the Lord of Domination for a reason. Stop. she thought to herself. You need to stop dwelling on the past. Athena’s voice snapped Serana out of her thoughts. “Get inside, I have a spare room for you.”

As soon as Serana entered the house she felt better. Her skin was no longer burning in the sun and, despite the slave gauntlet on her arm, she felt a sense of energy fill her. There was the main dining hall, with a table with six chairs and a hearth fire that warmed Serana’s cold, undead skin. Sitting by the hearth fire was a Nord (Another Nord? Serana was getting sick of seeing her kinsman everywhere.) dressed in bards clothing. He had blonde hair and there was a lute at his feet. He seemed to be examining the stew cooking over the hearth.

“Athena, you’re back!” the bard said, getting up to greet her. “Good to see that you haven’t been eaten by a dragon yet.” “Not for a lack of trying though.” Athena finished. The bard turned toward Serana and let out a low whistle. “Who is this beauty you brought with you?” His eyes wandered, examining Serana in great detail. This Horker-face should be mindful of where he looks before I drain him to a pulp. She thought. 

“Sven, aren’t you after Camilia?” Athena interrupted as if she read Serana’s mind. Sven scoffed. “Stupid girl, she married that fool Elf, Faendal instead of me. Me! I wrote her poems, and all that long-eared fool can do is-” Serana tried to hold down her laughter, but a laugh escaped. “You wrote her poems? Seriously?” Sven huffed and stormed off, mumbling something to himself.

“It’s good to see that I’m not the only one to put that fool in his place,” Athena said, leading Serana up the stairs and to a room. The room was mostly empty. There was a bed that looked like it hadn’t been used in months, a dresser with a small lockbox on it, a chair that looked like it would collapse if Serana sat on it, a nightstand with a lit candle, and a couple paintings. “Get your rest in now,” Athena said. “We’ll take my boat and leave at sunset.” Serana nodded and the Bosmer shut the door behind her. She could hear the sound of strange magic behind the door, probably a lock spell. 

Serana couldn’t sleep. She tossed and turned in her bed, trying to find a comfortable position. She wasn’t used to sleeping on her back due to her being stuck right-side-up for centuries. The slave gauntlet wasn’t helping either. Eventually, she managed to drift asleep.

***

Serana awoke to the sounds of clamoring of dishes. Serana got out of bed slowly. Whatever magic this gauntlet did, it didn’t just stop her from casting magic. She tried to open the door; to her surprise, it was open. Lydia, who was dozing off in a chair nearby, jumped up and drew her sword. “You are great at your job.” Serana joked. The Nord huffed, gesturing her to go downstairs.

As Serana walked down the stairs, she could hear a conversation between Athena and her daughter, Runa. “But you only just got back!” the girl complained. “I know,” Athena said regretfully. “Tell you what; when I get back, we’ll take a trip to Whiterun and you can pick out a new bow.” Runa smiled and gave her mother a hug. “Thanks, Mama!”

Athena turned toward Serana and her smile fell. She definitely wasn’t expecting Serana to be awake yet. Athena wasn’t wearing her armor, just a simple shirt, and pants and she didn’t have her hair put up in a ponytail like it was before. Her hair rested on her shoulders, unkempt and messy. Her Elf ears poking through the sides of her jet black hair. She somehow looked more attractive than before. Serana shook herself out of her thoughts and tried to make a witty remark. She meant to say something like: I guess you weren’t expecting me? Instead, it came out like: “Uhh... Umm... Wasn’t expecting t-that.” Athena scoffed. “Give me a minute to get ready. We’ll leave then.”

***

The boat wasn’t in good shape. There were already several holes in it, and several more when they were out in the water. “So this is what the legendary Dragonborn can afford, huh?” Serana commented. Athena cracked a smile. She was rowing the boat, her eyes fixed on Serana. “I’m sorry your majesty,” she said in an exaggerated accent. “Is my vessel not up to your royal standards?” Serana laughed. She might have a stick up her arse, but at least she’s got some sense of humor, she thought.

“You never answered my question,” Serana blurted out. Athena (once again) remained silent. Her blue eyes mimicked the waves of the ocean, crashing against the boat. Her eyes refused to meet Serana’s. “Why do you hate vampires so much?” Serana asked. She tried to put some vampiric charm in her voice. She didn’t have a lot of practice with it, back home she only talked with other vampires. Being trapped underground for a few thousand didn’t help either, but it must have worked little because Athena spoke up. 

By now the two had reached the island now and were getting out of the boat. Serana looked at the castle that loomed over them. Ominous as ever, she thought. “A vampire killed someone I was close with,” she said under her breath, Serana could barely hear her voice over the waves of the ocean. Serana tried pushing it farther. “How ‘close’ were you with this person?” she questioned. Athena wasn’t looking at Serana, but she could tell she was angry. “Stop asking questions, if you know what’s good for you,” she threatened. “Come on,” Serana said, putting vampiric charm in her voice. “There’s more to-” Athena turned and faced Serana, her hands balled up into fists.“My husband was killed by a vampire!” Athena yelled. “Is that what you wanted to hear?”

Time seemed to stop around them. The waves stopped washing against the coast. The wind stopped whistling in Serana’s ear. A single tear went down Athena’s face. Serana put her hand on Athena’s shoulder. “I-I’m sorry,” she said. “I didn’t-” “Don’t.” Athena said firmly, wiping her face. Nice one, Serana, she thought to herself.

The two approached the gate to Castle Volkihar, she heard an old man shouting. “It’s lady Serana!” he yelled. “She’s back!” As the old gate was opening, Serana felt a wave of dread wash over her. After all the years of being hidden underground to escape her father, just to come crawling back. And now the only other person she could go with hated her. Now’s the time, she thought. Tell Athena how you feel. You might not get another chance.

Serana cleared her throat. “Hey,” she mumbled. “What?” Athena snapped. She didn’t even look at Serana. “Whatever happens in there, I want you to know-” Serana stopped herself. Was she really about to confess her love to someone who tried to kill her? “I’m going to be on my own for a while.” she finished. Athena scoffed. “Good.”

Athena quickly went inside, mumbling to herself. Serana put her hand on the castle door, and hesitated. She could leave. She could take the boat and run off to Morrowind, far away from her father. I’m sick of running and hiding, Serana thought. She took one last breath of the frigid air, and entered the castle.

The entrance was the same as Serana remembered; grey and cold. Hints of moonlight trickled in through the windows and reflected off the gargoyle statues. “How dare you trespass here!” yelled an approaching voice. It was an Altmer, he was wearing standard vampire robes and had a snobbish posture. He glared at Athena, who was unsheathing her dagger. “Don’t make a move towards me, bloodsucker!” she warned. The vampire glanced behind Athena, looking at Serana. “Wait, Serana?” he gasped. “Is that truly you? I cannot believe my eyes!” She didn’t recognize him, but he was definitely part of the Volkihar clan.

The Altmer ran down the stairs leading to the dining hall. “My lord! Everyone! Serana has returned!” he shouted. Serana chuckled. “I guess I’m expected.” Athena gripped the hilt of her dagger, shaking as if to contain herself. She gestured for Serana to go ahead.

The dining room was filled with vampires feasting on their meals. Blood dripped from the thralls that laid on the tables. Serana could hear a few vampires looking at Athena and her, then snickering to each other. “I can’t believe it.” One of them said in awe. Her father had gotten up from his chair and stood at the center of the room soaking in the attention (like he had always liked to do).

“My long-lost daughter returns at last,” he said. “I trust you have my Elder Scroll?” Serana’s blood boiled. She wanted to beat him to death with the damned scroll. “After all these years, that’s the first thing you ask me?” she snapped. “Yes I have the scroll.” He grinned a mile-long smile, taunting Serana. “Of course I am delighted to see you, my daughter. Must I really say the words aloud?” Yes. you do, Guar-face, Serana thought. “If only your traitor mother were here,” he continued. “I would let her watch this reunion before putting her head on a spike.” Serana wanted to kill her father right there. She wanted to signal Athena to put an arrow in his chest. Her mother cared about her. At least, Serana wanted to think that.

“Now tell me, who is this stranger you have brought into our hall?” Serana’s father asked, examining Athena. She was glaring at him, as if she was plotting a way to kill him. Good to see we’re on the same page, Serana said to Athena in her mind. “S-She saved me,” Serana choked on her words. “She’s the one who freed me.” Her father turned toward Athena, putting out his hand for a handshake. Athena smirked. “You better keep that hand away from me before I cut it off.” she warned. “Of course,” he said, putting his hand back. “For my daughter’s safe return, you have my gratitude,” the Vampire Lord continued. “Tell me, what is your name?” Athena snarled, her hand still on the hilt of her dagger. “You first.” she said. He shrugged. “Fair enough.”

“I am Harkon, lord of this court,” he gloated. Serana always hated when her father stroked his ego. “By now, my daughter would have told you what we are.” “You’re a bunch of feral, bloodsucking fiends.” Athena interrupted. Harkon twitched at the insult. Serana had never seen him like this before, it caught Serana off guard as much as it did her father.

“I suppose you could call us that,” Harkon said, sighing. “We are vampires, among the oldest and most powerful in Skyrim. For centuries we have lived here, far from the cares of the world. All that ended when my wife betrayed me and stole away that which I valued most.” ‘Which I value most?’ He can’t be talking about me, Serana thought. He was the reason she had to hide anyway, and suddenly he pretends like he cares?

“Your daughter mentioned a reward for her return?” Athena suggested, trying to change the subject. Harkon grinned. “I was just about to suggest that very thing. Yes, you certainly deserve a reward.” Oh no, Serana thought. This isn’t going to end well. “There is but one gift I can give that is equal in value to my Elder Scroll and my daughter,” Harkon continued. “I offer you my blood. Take it, and you will walk as a lion among sheep. Men will tremble at your approach, and you will never fear death again.” Athena pondered the offer. Serana thought that she might actually accept. “And if I refuse your ‘gift’?” She asked. “Then you will be prey, like all mortals,” Harkon said. “I will spare your life this once, but you will be banished from this hall. Perhaps you still need convincing? Behold, the power!”

Harkon began to shake, his body spasming. He then grew wings from his back and his teeth elongated. He had transformed into his Vampire Lord form. Serana never liked to use her’s. It always hurt and it made her feel like an animal. “This is the power I offer!” He shouted. “Now, make your choice.” 

Serana ran up to Athena and grabbed her shoulders. “Before you choose, please listen to me.” Athena pushed Serana back. “Get away from me!” she turned toward Harkon. “You can take your ‘gift’ and shove it!” Harkon began to conjure a spell. “You are prey, like all mortals. I banish you!” Serana tried to stop her father but it was too late. Athena vanished before she could get a word in.

Serana looked at the pile of magical residue left behind and whispered under her breath. “I’m going to find you.”

Chapter Text

Serana glanced out her window, which overlooked the Sea of Ghosts. The waves crashed against the island’s rocky coast. It had been three days since Serana returned home. She had managed to get the Dunmer slave gauntlet off with the help from the castle alchemist, Ronthil, who had brewed a poison that corroded the metal enough for her to slip out of it.

Other than avoiding her father, Serana had mostly stayed in her room and caught up on her reading. Surprisingly, the castle library was up to date. Serana decided to catch up on Tamriel’s history; The Three Banner War, Molag Bal’s invasion of Tamriel, Tiber Septim and the forming of the New Empire, The War of the Red Diamond, The reincarnation of Nerevar and their battle with Dagoth Ur, Mehrunes Dagon’s invasion of Tamriel, Martin Septim, and the Champion of Cyrodiil, the new Aldmeri Dominion, and their victory in the Great War. I must have taken the biggest nap of all time, Serana joked to herself.

Serana also thought a lot about Athena. Was she okay? Serana’s father had told her about a fort in The Rift that was occupied by vampire hunters called the Dawnguard; could Athena have possibly gone there? “They’re a bunch of fools,” Harkon had said. “They think they can defeat me with a few pointed sticks and crossbows.” As much as Serana hated it, he was right; If Harkon managed to fulfill the prophecy, the Dawnguard didn’t stand a chance against him. Serana had managed to hide The Elder Scroll away from her father; Harkon didn’t have a way of reading it, but he was persistent. He would no doubt use it to fulfill his prophecy.

Serana’s thoughts were interrupted by a knock at her door. Ronthil peeked his head into her room. “As requested, Lady Serana,” He said, shifting his feet. “These are the books that I could find about Elder Scrolls.” He handed Serana two books; Effects of Elder Scrolls and Pension of the Ancestor Moth . “Thanks for the help,” She said. Serana liked Ronthil; he seemed nice (especially by vampire standards) and the only one who wasn’t involved in the stupid conflict between members of the clan. “I’m going to need those books back after you’re done,” The anxious Bosmer explained. “Your father said he needs it for his research.” Serana’s eyes widened. If Harkon found a way to read the Elder Scroll…

The first book, Effects of the Elder Scrolls , had instructions to take the proper precautions to not go blind. “None of this explains how to READ it.” Serana looked at the Elder Scroll sitting next to her. Its golden case reflected the moonlight, disrupting the darkness of Serana’s room. The blue gem in the center of it glittered, as if craving attention. “I wish scrolls had feelings,” Serana said. “So I can break yours.” The Elder Scroll, of course, didn’t respond. It just continued to glow, as if to say: “Look at me! I know that even the gods envy, but you can’t read it.”

The next book, Pension of the Ancestor Moth , had more useful information. It detailed an organization called the Order of the Ancestor Moth who had members who spent their entire lives preparing to read Elder Scrolls. The only problem; the Order was located half a continent away, in Cyrodiil. Serana let out a long sigh. “It’s never that easy, is it?”

Serana didn’t feel like traveling to Cyrodiil, and even if she made it to the Imperial City, the Moth Priests probably wouldn’t be keen on helping a vampire. There could be a Moth Priest somewhere in Skyrim, but the land had changed greatly since Serana was locked away; she wouldn’t know where to look. Athena would know, Serana thought to herself. Just thinking about Athena made her chest feel heavy. They didn’t leave on the best terms, her words still echoed through Serana’s head: “Get away from me!” Athena had said it in a cold, unfeeling tone, just like how she spoke back in Serana’s tomb.

It doesn’t matter, Serana said to herself. Athena has to be with the Dawnguard; someone like her who hates vampires THAT much would look for accomplices. Serana grabbed the Elder Scroll, a few books, and her alchemical ingredients and left for Fort Dawnguard.

***

The sound of rushing water of the nearby waterfall filled Serana’s ears as the large stone structure of Fort Dawnguard loomed over her. In the distance she could see several recruits at an archery range; each loud snap of the crossbows made Serana flinch. Hopefully, these people aren’t trigger-happy, Serana thought. Before she could get any closer, she felt the sharp point of a blade against her back.

“You’ve got some stones to show up here, vampire,” A voice said. “Who sent you?” Serana hesitated for a moment; if she said the wrong thing, she’d become a vampire kabob. “Athena sent me,” Serana lied. “She told me to meet her here.” The vampire hunter went silent for a moment before he sheathed his sword. “I don’t like this, but it’s not my call. You’re going to have to speak with Isran first.”

The inside of the fort was almost as intimidating as the outside. The tall grey walls made Serana’s breath short, like walking into the hall of a god. A small beam of light seeped through a crack in the ceiling that illuminated the center of the room. There was a balcony on the second floor that overlooked the entrance.

“Who’s that you have with you, Celann?” A man said, startling Serana; she didn’t even notice him approaching. He had dark skin and a long thick beard. Various battle scars sprinkled his bald head like snow; this must have been the leader. “Isran-- sir,” Celann stuttered. “She’s a vampire. I found her scouting the area. She said she was looking for Athena.” Isran studied Serana, like a predator getting ready to kill its prey. “You must be the vampire that Athena found at Dimhollow Crypt,” he guessed; his voice was rough like sandpaper. “She told me all about you. About how you-”

“I just need to find her!” Serana interrupted. “Just tell me where she is.” Isran leaned in close to Serana. He had a divine aura around him that made Serana feel weak. “And why would I tell a vampire where my best recruit is?” Serana pushed down her fear and tried to harness her vampiric charm. “I’m sure being the leader of the Dawnguard gets lonely,” Serana said. “We could-” Before She could finish, Isran conjured a spell in his hand and pressed it to her stomach. It felt like the concentrated power of the sun just gut-punched her. Serana let out a yelp of pain and fell to the ground.

“Trying to seduce me won’t get you anywhere, bloodsucker,” Isran said. “You’ll get plenty of time with Athena… once she gets back. Until then, I want you monitored at all times.” Isran turned toward one of the vampire hunters across the room; he sat on a crate, tinkering with his crossbow. “Agmaer!” Isran shouted. The vampire hunter bolted up, fumbling his crossbow. “Sir! What’s the order?”

Isran let out a long sigh. “I told you not to call me that. You’re not in the Imperial Legion, boy.” Agmaer stared at him with a blank expression. “Anyway,” Isran continued. “I want you to escort the prisoner upstairs. Don’t let it out of your sight.” Serana scoffed. “So I’m your prisoner now?” “You’re lucky you’re even alive,” Isran threatened. “Don’t make me regret this.”

Agmaer led Serana upstairs and into a small room. The room was filled with various torture tools stained in dry blood. Serana shuddered at the sight, remembering similar tools being used in the Daughter of Coldharbour ritual. “Don’t worry, we don’t use those,” Agmaer reassured. “They were like that when Isran found this place.”Serana sat down, ignoring his comment. The stone floor felt cold, even to her vampiric skin.

Serana’s mind wandered; she wondered if her father had found out she snuck out of the castle. She imagined his rage to find Serana missing with the Elder Scroll. He wouldn’t miss me, she thought. He only used me for the scroll. Her mother wasn’t much better, either. She was complacent in the Coldharbour ritual; she didn’t even think twice about offering her daughter to a Daedric Lord. Soon, Serana’s eyelids felt heavy and she drifted asleep.

Serana stood in a dark room. The walls were inky black; some of the finer details were degraded beyond recognition. “You know you have to do this Serana,” A familiar voice said from behind her. “This is expected of you, as it is for me.” Serana turned around to see her mother giving her a look of derision. Her figure seemed to be blurred and messy, like a faded memory. Serana opened her mouth to speak, but her words weren’t her own. “Are you sure there isn’t another way?” She said with a tone of desperation. “Don’t stall, Serana, this is tradition.”

With a sigh, Serana turned back and a black altar that wasn’t there before stood before her. Serana winced as she recognized the altar; this wasn’t a dream, it was a memory. Unlike the rest of the room, the altar seemed sharper; more defined. Its exaggerated jags and edges seemed fitting for an altar for the Lord of Domination.

Serana wanted to stop this. She wished she could change the memory somehow and stop herself and prevent all the family strife from happening. Unfortunately, she knew she couldn’t stop it. As Serana put her hands on the altar, a spike of pain went through her body. It felt like her insides were on fire. The loud voice of Molag Bal echoed through the inside of her skull. So you’re the one Harkon is offering me? The voice was agonizing, with each enunciation piercing Serana’s mind. I suppose you’ll do. Submit to me and be gifted the power of being a Daughter of Coldharbour-.

Before Molag Bal’s speech could continue, she was thrust out of her dream and back into reality. The grey walls of Fort Dawnguard were oddly comforting, as Serana stood up and grounded herself back in reality. She felt the Elder Scroll against her back; her alchemical ingredients still tucked away in her bag.

Serana could hear Isran giving a speech from the central room of Fort Dawnguard. “Now, we’re going to find out why a vampire came here looking for you,” he said, his voice echoing through the fort.

As Serana turned the corner, she came face-to-face with Athena. She wasn’t wearing her dragon scale armor anymore, instead, she was wearing ink black leather armor with various pouches and satchels. Her jet black hair was put up into a low ponytail, which showed off her defined elven features, and she had a look of disbelief on her face.

Serana managed a chuckle. “Guess you weren’t expecting to see me again.”

Chapter Text

Athena could hardly believe it. She stared at the vampire, her shoulder-length black hair covering her face like a silk hood. She had made it to Fort Dawnguard and was alive at that. What was more intriguing was why ? Why would she go to the one place in Skyrim where her kind would be killed on sight? Scouting, perhaps? No, she would’ve had backup with her. Athena turned toward Isran, looking at his ungroomed beard.

“This vampire showed up while you were away,” Isran said coldly. “I’m guessing it’s the one you found in Dimhollow Crypt. Says it’s got something really important to say to you.” The vampire looked at her with a smug look, almost to say: “You thought you’d seen the last me!”

“What the hell are you doing here?” Athena asked bitterly. Serana’s eyes shifted towards Isran. “I’d rather not be here either, but I need to talk to you.” Athena was taken a bit off guard by the response. She thought she had ended things pretty clear with her. “It’s, well it’s about me,” Athena could see the hesitation in Serana’s eyes as she talked. “And the Elder Scroll that was buried with me.” Athena glanced back at the Elder Scroll she had strapped to her back. How did I not notice that? Or the Dawnguard for that matter. Whatever reason she had, bringing the scroll was a big sign of trust.“What about the scroll?” Athena asked.

“The reason I was buried with it; It all comes back to my father,” Serana explained. “I’m guessing you’ve already figured it out, but my father’s not exactly a good person; Even by vampire standards.” That’s not saying much, Athena said to herself. “He wasn’t always like that though. There was a… a turn. He stumbled into this obscure prophecy and just kind of lost himself in it.” A prophecy? The only kinds of prophecies I’ve encountered never end well.

“What sort of prophecy are we talking about?” Athena said, intrigued. “It’s pointless and vague, like all prophecies,” Athena let out a small chuckle, looking back on the time she traveled to Sky Haven Temple. “But the part he latched onto said that vampires would no longer need to fear the sun,” Serana continued. “That’s what he’s after; To control the sun, have vampires rule the world.” Athena’s eyes widened. If there’s something that can control the sun, it’d be a nightmare if Harkon got his hands on it.

“You took a big risk coming here to tell us this. Thank you.” Serana raised an eyebrow as if she didn’t believe what she heard. “You’re not going soft on me, are you Athena?” Athena chuckled. “I believe you, but the other vampire hunters might not be so agreeable,” Serana smirked. “Well, that shouldn’t be too hard. You’re nothing if not persuasive.” Athena looked away, trying to hide her blush.

Isran’s hand twitched as if he was ready to kill Serana right there. “You’ve heard what it has to say. Now tell me, is there any reason I shouldn’t kill this bloodsucking fiend right now?” Athena sighed. Despite Isran being a good leader, his hate for vampires can sometimes get in the way of his rational thinking. “Despite our disdain towards vampires, we’re going to need her help, Isran.” Isran gave Athena a dirty look; he clearly did not like her challenging him. “Why, because of that story about the prophecy? About some vampire trying to put the sun out? Do you actually believe any of that?”

“Why would she risk her life coming here to tell us this?” “Who knows, maybe it has a death wish,” Isran mocked. “Maybe it’s just insane. I don’t really care.” Athena’s face turned red out of rage. “Do you hear yourself?” Athena demanded. “Vampires are trying to put an end to our world, and you’re turning a blind eye?” Isran sighed. “Fine, it can stay for now, but if it so much as lays a finger on anyone here, I’ll hold you responsible, got it?” Athena looked at the ground. “Yes sir.” Isran reminded her of her time in the Imperial Legion. She remembered Legate Rikke and her no-slack mentality. She remembered Hadvar and his friendly voice, always someone she could count on. It was a shame when he died in a Stormcloak remnant ambush.

“You hear me?” Isran said to Serana. “Don’t feel like a guest, because you’re not. You’re a resource; an asset. Don’t make me regret my sudden outburst of tolerance and generosity. Because if you do, your friend here will pay for it.” Serana scowled at the vampire hunter. “Thanks for your ‘kindness’, I’ll remember it the next time I’m feeling hungry,” Isran grumbled something under his breath and left. Athena had to choke down a laugh. She had never seen someone talk to Isran like that and get away with it.

“So… I see you brought the Elder Scroll,” Athena pointed out, trying to break the silence. “It should tell us about something that can help us stop my father,” Serana explained. “The catch is, neither of us can read it.”

Then how did I read the one that I got from Blackreach? It had been a year since the defeat of Alduin, and Athena still didn’t fully comprehend the power of the Elder Scrolls. She kept the one she got from Blackreach with her, guarding it against any ambitious scholar looking to make a quick Septim. Athena tried reading it after the battle at the Throat of the World, but its writings were incomprehensible. She assumed that once it was no longer necessary to defeat Alduin, her ability to read it had been removed. 

“Do you know who can?” Athena asked. “Well, the Moth Priests are the only ones that I know of that can read the Elder Scrolls. They spend years preparing before they start reading them,” Serana explained. “Not that it helps us anyway, because they’re all half a continent away in Cyrodiil.” “You guys are looking for a moth priest?” A voice interrupted. It was Celann, Isran’s comrade that greeted her at Fort Dawnguard when she first arrived. “I saw an Imperial carriage that was carrying a few scholars; sounds like that fits your description.” That sounds promising, Athena thought. “Do you know where it was headed?” Serana asked. Celann shook his head. “Afraid not, and I don’t think Isran is going to send men to look. You two are probably on your own.”

“Well, that’s just great,” Serana huffed as Celann left. “‘The Tale of the Great Moth Priest Hunt’. Not something I’d want to read.” Athena scoffed. The arrogant vampire’s attitude wasn’t helping the situation. “Where would a Moth Priest even go?” Serana put her hand on her chin like she had solved the Nerevarine’s disappearance. She always looked so invested whenever she was speculating; a trait Athena would appreciate if not for the whole bloodsucking thing.

“Back before I… you know, the College of Winterhold would be the place I’d go for anything regarding magic,” Serana said, snapping Athena back into the conversation. “Right,” Athena said, a bit flustered. “I’ll get us a wagon up to-” Just as Athena was about to finish, Gunmar, the Nord blacksmith she had tracked down, walked into the room. His long, bushy brown beard covered most of his face, with a small braid hanging by his face.

Athena had found Gunmar outside a cave that housed a bear that terrorized the local village. She could tell that he was a traditional Nord; someone who truly cared about Skyrim and her people. “Athena, before you go,” he interrupted. “If you’re headed north, I have a lead in Windhelm I think you’ll be interested in.”

Athena raised an eyebrow. She hadn’t been to Windhelm in months, not since… not since the incident. Plus, the racist Nords of the city didn’t make it the most welcoming place. Athena was not in any rush to return to Windhelm. “It’s on the way,” Athena mentioned. “What’s the job?”

"A vampire is masquerading in the city as a pilgrim," Gunmar explained. "We need to take care of it before it can establish a lair." Athena nodded. She didn't like the idea of a wild vampire gaining control of the region, even in a city like Windhelm.

Athena turned towards Serana, who was clearly daydreaming and not paying attention to the conversation. Her blood-red eyes darted around, examining the stone architecture like she was imagining exactly how the fort was constructed. "I hope you don't mind tracking down and killing your kind," Athena said with a hint of sarcasm.

"I've never had an affinity for my vampire kin," Serana said. "Plus, they're the ones we're trying to stop in the first place." It was surprising for Athena to know a vampire willing to kill their kind to protect mortals. Something tells me this is going to be an interesting journey.

***

As the duo crossed the cold, uninviting stone bridge, Athena felt a twinge of pain in her gut. The steel city gate waited ominously, like a gate to Oblivion. As the gate opened, a wave of cold washed over her.

"The books I read described Windhelm as 'The City of Kings'," Serana pointed out. "I was expecting it to be a bit… bigger." Athena couldn’t help but laugh. The tight, claustrophobic alleys weren't exactly what you'd expect when you think of a city where many Skyrim kings sat at its throne. The snow on the shoulders of Athena’s ink-black leather armor began to pile on, sending a wave of chills through her body. “We should check the local tavern,” Athena said with a shaky breath. “We’ll find some leads there. And get out of this cold.”

The Candlehearth Hall was just as Athena remembered. The tavern had a surprisingly warm air to it, despite the gray stone walls. One of the stools still had the scratches from a bar fight that had taken place months ago. Elda, the owner, and bartender of the Candlehearth was chatting with one of the patrons, likely taking someone’s order.

Athena sat down by the fireplace that crackled in the tavern hall, Serana followed suit, taking her hood off and fidgeting with her hair. The way Serana held herself was so fascinating; both calm yet perceptive at the same time. Athena couldn’t help but find it endearing.

“The mighty Dragonborn finally graces our city with her presence,” A voice echoed behind her. The voice sounded familiar; one of hatred and contempt. “Ever since you and those traitorous Imperial bastards killed Ulfric Stormcloak, they’ve been letting those Gray-Skins into the city.” Athena turned around to see an aged Nord man standing in front of her. His scruffy mutton chops hadn’t changed from when she had last seen him.“Rolff, good to see you haven’t changed.” Athena snapped back. The former Stormcloak glared at her vampire companion. “You dare travel with this Imperial tree-climber? You’re no better than the Thalmor.” Tree-climber; never heard that one before. Athena chuckled to herself. 

Serana looked at the man with confusion, trying to piece together the larger context of the situation. “What did these ‘Imperials’ exactly do that was so bad?” Rolff showed visual disbelief at what she had said; his feet shifting back a few steps. “The Empire betrayed its people and let the Nords be crushed beneath the heel of the elves! They disgrace the mighty Talos’ legacy!”

Athena had the utmost respect for most Nord traditions; it’s how her parents raised her. She grew up in Bruma, the part of Cyrodiil with the largest Nord population. To say that an adopted Bosmer stood out would be an understatement. But Athena’s parents didn’t care, they raised her as if she were her blood parents. So when Athena made her way to Skyrim, she wasn't expecting such large hate for outsiders.

“I’m more of a Nord than you’ll ever be, old man,” Athena said, cracking her knuckles. “I’ve fought and bled for this land and everyone in Skyrim.” Athena glanced behind her to see Serana, ready for the fight that was likely to break out. Rolf swung at the Athena, who quickly ducked and rolls behind the lumbering Nord. Just as Athena was going to make a counterattack, Serana raised her hand in a closed fist motion. “Stop!” She commanded, and the Nord frozen in place, his face dazed from the strange magic. Whatever she did, it was powerful; even Athena felt her clenched fist loosen a little at the sound of her voice.“Thanks,” Athena mumbled below her sigh. Serana gave her a soft smile. A smile that Athena had thought that the undead was incapable of having.

Just as quickly as it came, Serana’s smile faded as she pointed behind Athena. As she looked over her shoulder, she could make out a figure in a dark corner of the tavern. The figure wore a dark shade of leather, and the only thing Athena could make out in the darkness were two glowing deep red eyes. A vampire.

The night stalker must have noticed because the second Athena pulled out her dagger, it bolted out of the tavern. “I think you scared them,” Serana said with a laugh. Athena didn’t have time to process the sarcastic comment; she ran after the creature, chasing it through the Stone Quarter’s marketplace. The market was mostly empty, likely due to it being close to the middle of the night. The chase was a blur; that’s usually how fights were for Athena now, she just let her instincts kick in.

After keeping up the chase, Athena had managed to corner the vampire into a shop. The owner wasn’t home, thankfully. The abomination was backed against the wall, bearing its teeth as an animalistic defense mechanism. “Why go through all this effort, mortal? For little ol’ me?” Athena ignored the comment, instead focusing on the detail of her weapon: Mehrunes’ Razor. One of the many daedric artifacts she had acquired over her journeys across Skyrim.

She drove the weapon deep into the beast's throat; she could hear the blade pierce the rotted wood behind the vampire’s neck. Athena held it against the wall, listening to its cries for what was left of its unlife. Eventually, she felt its muscles go limp, and let go, leaving the body to drop to the ground.

The sound of Serana rushing through the door shook Athena's consciousness, like being freed from a spell. Serana looked at Athena, dagger in hand. “Looks like you got him,” She said between pants. Athena glanced behind her and saw various potions on a nearby counter, each one coated in what looked like years of dust. Athena couldn’t hold it in anymore. She fell to the ground, sobbing. She cried harder than she had in years. Serana knelt at her side with a face of concern. “What happened, Athena?”

Athena choked down the remaining sobs she had left. “This- This is where my husband died.”