Skyrim: Legacy of the Voklkihar Vampires
Dawn of Darkness
Serana looked over at the gardens of the courtyard as she reflected on several things her lover had done.
First off, he had his brother become High King then he 'removed' some Jarls from power and replaced them with more competent ones. He defeated another Dragonborn and got rid of her father once and for all.
She was impressed by how he dealt with the two elders Vingalmo and Orthgolf as Alester gave them positions of power and trusted them to rule those forts previously occupied by their enemies.
As for their enemies, they were destroyed and forgotten. The Dawnguard being nothing more than a laughingstock by the townsfolk as rumors went around how they go on about 'protecting' the people from 'monsters' like them.
They are the true monsters as they often murdered innocent people believing that they are vampires.
She was beside him when he announced that the Tyranny Of the Sun will come to pass as he will allow everyone in the court to hunt but on the condition that they stay away from cities and towns, they all agreed.
She and her mother witnessed Alester fired a Bloodcursed Arrow at the sun, granting her kind relief from sunlight. The court as well as the vampires outside relished in the feeling as they wrecked havoc towards the enemies of Skyrim.
Namely bandits, thieves, necromancers, rogue mages, the occasional animal trying to attack a traveler. None of them are safe as many vampires along with their pet Gargoyles and Death Hounds killed a lot of robbers and murderers that are either on the roads or holed up in forts or caves.
Many people were frightened by the fact that the sky went dark and even more so by vampires roaming the roads but realized that they weren't there to invade, merely to feed.
One traveler got knocked down by a Gargoyle but realized as he unsheathed his sword that the Gargoyle ignored him and continued running forward. He saw that other vampires moved towards one direction.
The cursed sun stayed like that for a day and it reverted back to its original stay but it didn't last long as Serana knew that Alester fired another Bloodcursed Arrow at it. Valerica expressed concern about it but Alester assured her that it would only happen for about a week.
Many travelers and soldiers were confused as to why the monsters and vampires were simply ignoring them and when the travelers got attacked, the monsters not only killed the bandits but also protected them from those bandits.
One traveler told a story that one thief tried to rob him only to be bitten in the neck by a vampire and served as a thrall. The vampire who did it didn't even look at him as he did that.
Another said that while he was attacked by wolves, black dogs he described protected him from them and even fed on them while ignoring him.
One family described their travels from Whiterun Hold to Dragon Bridge that bandits tried to rob them but vampires protected them and made those bandits their thralls. They didn't even ask for rewards!
A husband and a wife explained that they were captured by necromancers but creatures they hadn't seen before attacked the necromancers and one vampire freed them. When they asked why, the vampire told them that they are not worthy prey and since they have done no wrong to his kind, he will set them free. The creatures killed the necromancers and the vampire let them go without asking for payment.
Serana heard the rumors spreading like wildfire. Her mother told her about Alester's plan:
Alester would initiate the prophecy but instead of invading cities like Harkon would've wanted. He would order the lesser versions of their people to do a clean sweep of the province, to exterminate anyone ready to prey on innocent people. Vampires are around to roam the earth and kill every single bandit or rogue mage hiding within the abandoned ruins of Skyrim. The Forsworn are exempt as they serve as Madanach's troops.
After the week ends, the prophecy would end.
Serana admitted that it is a good plan to fulfill the prophecy and make them look like saints to the people. Now she didn't have to be worried about being a vampire and be proud to be one.
Alester told her that the week ended and Mors told him that the area is basically safe as the last bandit stronghold was destroyed and the Silver Hand which are bandits too are annihilated. Skyrim is so safe that you don't need to carry a weapon and he grew bored from the lack of enemies to kill.
Not that the High King was complaining as a few Jarls expressed concerns with him traveling around with only one person to protect him and there's a chance that he can be killed or worse.
Serana remembered the happiest day of her life when Alester proposed to her and she agreed to marry him. She didn't want to get a wedding in a temple so he proposed a ceremony outside and the sun bloated out during the day. He designated the place to be at the volcanic area of Eastmarch, probably near Eldergleam Sanctuary.
"I thought I'd find you here." Valerica called out. Garan Marethi beside her.
She went to her daughter's side and said happily. "Alester had his elders make preparations for the wedding. He is currently writing letters to some of his allies and even High King Westford."
Serana knew why the High King is invited. He would be a worthy witness and the fact that he is present means that the marriage is solidified and cannot be disputed.
Serana mused. "I guess it's hard to believe that Alester brought peace to Skyrim and to us."
Valerica nodded. "Me too my daughter. Because of him, the people speak of us vampires in a positive light viewing our presence as a blessing despite our...origins."
"I'm aware that thanks to my late father, the Thieves Guild welcomed Alester back and agreed that all of the blame would befall on my late father. I know that Alester didn't write to the Jarls but Madanach sent a letter to him that he will attend as a show of gratitude."
"Indeed."
"Mother, will you be the one to be my parent for my wedding?"
A silence happened as Valerica pondered her daughter's question. She felt peace in her mind that she had earned her redemption and can truly call herself as Serana's mother.
"I shall."
Garan Marethi suddenly spoke. "My ladies. Lord Alester had completed the preparations and wishes to initiate the royal wedding. The College of Winterhold, the Thieves Guild and the Dark Brotherhood have arrived too. He even added. "He lets you borrow his horse Shadowmere as we are to go to the wedding. The whole court will be there."
They both nodded to him and he escorted them to Icewater Jelly.
Early in the morning and Serana felt her blood boiling from the sun, upon passing to Solitude, she complained. "Mother, do we really have to take the long trek in the middle of the sun?"
Valerica only sighed as she ordered Garan to retrieve Shadowmere. "I asked Alester the same thing and he assured me that when you arrive at the designated wedding spot, he'll blot out the sun."
Garan said, bringing the black horse. "My lady, please ride on Lord Alester's horse. Lady Valerica and I will escort you."
Serana nodded then rid on Shadowmere.
The trip from Haafingar to the Reach was uneventful. Serana saw Forsworn guarding the mines and the people working there are safe and free. She also overheard rumors that life is better off with the Forsworn in charge. Serana smiled to herself, knowing that Madanach may have taken over the Reach but it was Alester who is his mysterious partner. To this day, nobody knew that it was her love that presented the King of the Reach this opportunity and turn the tides of war to his favor.
They passed through Whiterun Hold and saw that Valtheim Keep is empty. No bandit to take a 'stop toll' from them. Again, the trip was uneventful and aside from the usual Imperial and Stormcloak squads, nothing else. Serana mused that Skyrim can be defined as safe thanks to the prophecy ridding them of their enemies. They did however encounter some Thalmor soldiers along the way and the Justiciar among them recognized Serana and wished her a long and happy marriage. Serana smiled at that and caressed Shadowmere's skin, making it purr in pleasure.
They made it to the Rift where they started traveling to Eastmarch. Once more, the trip was a bore and Serana decided to take the time by seeing the sights. The trees and autumn colors clearly brought her peace. Eventually the arrived at the designated place of Eldergleam Sanctuary where there are plenty of tables and chairs fit for a wedding ceremony.
All of the Volkihar court is present and even Orthgolf and Vingalmo left their forts to attend. Vampires and Death Hounds guarding the wedding and statues of Gargoyles placed in designated areas where they would come out if there is an attack.
Not that any would happen but it didn't hurt to be extra cautious.
Aside from the vampire court, she saw Tolfdir, Brelyna Maryon, Onmund and J'zargo representing the College of Winterhold. She saw Brynjolf, Karliah, Delvin Mallory and Vex representing the Thieves Guild. She saw Nazir, Babette, Cicero and what surprised her is the coffin of the Night Mother with them representing the Dark Brotherhood. High King Mors Westford is present along with Frea and Madanach and Kaie are here too. Neloth is also there chatting with other vampires with apprentice Talvas Fathyron. Paarthurnax, Odahviing, Durhneviir, Kruziikrel, Relonikiv and Sahrotaar are also present.
Alester saw them and immediately shot another Bloodcursed Arrow at the sun, blotting it out.
Serana got off of Shadowmere and Garan Marethi and her mother escorted her to Alester who is still in is Dragonscale Armor. They presented her to the aisle to Alester and sat next to the court.
Maramal and Dinya Balu began a whole speech about marriage and everything but they weren't paying attention. All they focused on was each other.
Alester's trance stopped when Maramal asked. "Do you agree to be bound together, in love, now and forever?
"I do. Now and forever."
Maramal turned to Serana and asked. "Do you agree to be bound together, in love, now and forever."
"I do. Now and forever"
Maramal declared. "Under the authority of Mara, I declare the couple to be wed. You may kiss your bride."
When they did so, the whole audience cheered. Valerica presented them with rings crafted by Hestla and enchanted by Feran Sadri.
"Now its time to mingle with our guests." Alester said, holding out his arm for her and she accepted.
They went for Mors and Frea first. Mors took off his Daedric helmet and said. "Congrats on your wedding Alester." When Alester nodded, he added. "Frea and I have been spending time together and I'm planning to marry her maybe a week or so after you." But then his face became serious. "If we have the time, I'd like to talk to you about Frea's people. It's about their future."
Alester nodded then said. "All you need is to send a letter then I'll accommodate you in my castle."
Mors replied. "Thanks." He looked at Serana and said. "I don't know what kind of vampire you are exactly but if you don't take good care of my brother, I'll find out and I'll find you." He said the threat.
Serana just playfully brushed it off. "Who? Me? I'm just a beautiful vampire but you needn't not worry about me betraying him."
Mors just said. "I hope so. Anyway, it's good to meet you again Alester and your vampire wife. Ever since the sun blotted out, the province has been so safe that you don't need to carry a weapon and the last time I used mine was just sparring with my Companions and Frea."
Alester just bowed and replied. "Now the people no longer need to fear the creatures of the night. We've done a better job protecting them than the Dawnguard do. We'll be going now High King. See you around."
They left Mors and Frea and saw him chatting with Madanach. They decided to go to Tolfdir who is sitting with the novice mages alongside Neloth.
Tolfdir smiled at them in a kind, grandfatherly way. "Arch-Mage! How kind of you to invite us. I cannot bring the teachers as you specified in your letter that I must not bring a large group. Ever since the last Jarl disappeared, the new one has become more tolerable to us. We have also received an influx of students wishing to join the College."
Alester smiled and said. "I'm pleased that the influence of the College is expanding."
Tolfdir looked at Serana and said. "I am happy to get to meet the Arch-Mage's spouse! If there's anything you both need, I'm always available for asking!"
Serana smiled and replied. "Thank you."
Neloth chimed in. "Seeing the sun blotted out is an unnatural but fascinating experience. Talvas! Capture one of those Death Hounds or Gargoyles when we get back to Tel Mithryn! Anyway, I'm here because I wanted to get some fresh air out of my tower and maybe get some specimens along the way to your wedding reception."
Alester said. "Just don't ruin the party while you're at it."
Neloth just replied. "Yes, Yes. Now to chat with the other novice students..."
Alester said to Tolfdir. "It's good to have you at our wedding Tolfdir. We'll be going now." Tolfdir bowed and went back to his seat next to the novices.
They went to Brynjolf who shook Alester's hand and held his shoulder. "Lad, I'm really upset that Maven's dead but her imprisoned son is taking over. I think I can just simply say that it was this Harkon's fault."
Alester said dryly. "My spouse's father DISOBEYED at direct order from me. I had made him make reparations to you."
Brynjolf winced at that and said to Serana. "Oh..uh..no offense lass."
Serana just waved it off. "None taken. Besides I made peace with the thought that my father died a long time ago."
Brynjolf said to Alester. "As you know, the Guild is still strong despite Maven's death but her son Sibbi is indeed his mother's son as he took over the meadery and the family. I know that the Jarl knows we're here but she's helping the people now. As for us, we're still doing great as our grip in the other Holds is still tight."
Alester replied. "I'm happy for you guys, rest assured. This won't happen again under my watch. You have my word."
Brynjolf said. "Thanks lad. We're happy to have you as our Guild Master." He sat down at his seat and drank with Delvin.
Alester looked at Karliah and Vex. "How is the wedding treating you?"
Vex replied while devouring a Sweet Roll. "It's doing great. Having vampires and no sun creeps me out but I don't need to worry about anything. Besides, getting out of that rathole is nice every once in a while."
"And you Karliah?"
The hooded woman said while sipping wine. "I am happy for you, Nightingale. I believe that I can say without a doubt that the Guild's and the Twilight Sepulcher's future is in good hands."
"Anyway, me and Serana will be going now. You all behave okay?" Alester sighed and Vex gave a thumbs up and they left.
They went to the table where the Dark Brotherhood are staying.
Babette saw them and excitedly asked. "So you two are vampires now? Sweet! What kind exactly?"
Alester answered the girl vampire. "The kind that can make mortals quiver in my approach. I would like to show you my form but some members here wouldn't appreciate it." Babette beamed at him.
Nazir bowed and said. "Listener. The initiates are doing their job with deadly precision and they are looking up to you. The Dark Brotherhood has risen thanks to you."
Babette added. "When we received a letter for your wedding, Cicero insisted that we bring the Night Mother along. Nazir objected and they've been arguing about it for hours until Cicero made a bet of 1,200 gold when the Listener is here and the Night Mother speaks to him."
Cicero loudly said. "The great and powerful Listener. I have brought the Night Mother as I believe that she'll want to congratulate you on having a wife and a vampire one at that."
Alester asked. "How did you bring the coffin here?"
Babette explained. "We had to use a carriage to fit the Night Mother in."
Nazir groaned. "People have been looking at us while we were traveling. It didn't make us inconspicuous at all."
(Listener...you have served the Dark Brotherhood and me well and you have found yourself a partner. I am proud to name you my Listener and I know that you will continue to serve in the times to come. May and your partner bring the wrath of Sithis upon the unworthy souls together.)
"Alester are you okay?" Serana asked, shaking him gently in the shoulder.
"I'm alright Serana. The Night Mother just spoke to me."
Cicero shouted in victory. "Ha! I knew it! I'd knew the Night Mother would speak to him! You owe me 1,200 gold when we get back Nazir!"
Nazir merely buried his face in one hand as he grumbled. "Cursed jesters.."
Alester laughed as he said. "We'll be going now. Try not to kill anyone while you're here."
Nazir replied. "Farewell Listener."
Babette cheerfully added. "Bye Listener!"
The rest of the wedding reception lasted for the entire day and Alester and Serana spoke with their court members. Most of them were enjoying themselves and happy for their lord. They considered him a greater lord than Harkon and Serana became happy with their praise and her bond for Alester became stronger and unbreakable.
(Epilogue)
As right now, Alester and Serana are on top of Sahrotaar's head as they fly around Skyrim. While traveling to the area of Haafingar, Alester mused on several things.
A week after his wedding, Mors and Frea are married and he and his wife are present. A month after that and Mors approached Alester explaining that after much deliberation with Neloth, he was concerned for his wife's future, namely her people.
As Red Mountain will erupt soon, the natural resources the Skaal sorely relied on will run out soon, forcing them to reintegrate with their Nordic cousins in Skyrim. Not to mention that their culture will die out in a span of a few years.
Alester provided a solution that pleased Mors. He could have several of the Holds accept the culture of the Skaal and add it to their own.
How he did this? Alester had Vingalmo influence the minds of the Jarls to be more lean into the idea of the Skaal culture for Skyrim. Have them forget about the Nine Divines and accept the All-Maker as their god.
Mors and Alester went back to Solstheim to speak to the Skaal there. The people were hesitant to leave their home but Alester pointed out that they will have to in the near future as Red Mountain will erupt soon and destroy the resources they needed. Alester added that they have embraced the Skaal culture and customs.
The Skaal reluctantly agreed to leave their home of Solstheim and left for Skyrim. They were surprised that many people embraced their customs and abandoned their worship of the Nine Divines.
Thanks to Alester's manipulations, Hjaalmarch, the Pale and Falkreach have Skaal customs and most of the major holds are accepting of them. Only the Reach doesn't have the Skaal in it as Madanach and the Forsworn follow the Old Gods and Daedra. Only Solitude has the Eight Divines and Windhelm still worships Talos but most of the Holds worship the All-Maker.
Following Skaal traditions also had an unexpected side effect and a good one at that, the Thalmor didn't mind it and tolerated it as it doesn't go against the terms of the White-Gold Concordant. They also left Skyrim as they are pleased that the future of Skyrim is in their best interests and returned to the Summerset Isles.
From Orthgolf by one of his spies, General Tulius is heading back to Cyrodiil as the Imperial presence is no longer needed and while Skyrim is independent of the Empire but considered as allies as the people there are willing to trade resources for the Empire. Elisif volunteered to act as representative for Skyrim to the Empife.
From Vingalmo who is also a witness, Ulfric is planning for a bid for High King. He challenged Mors but the man is prepared. Shouts were exchanged and axes and hammers clashed but the more experienced Dragonborn bested Ulfric and given him a lifetime ban from that position. Didn't help that Galmar attacked his wife and said some unforgivable things about the Skaal to her face.
Valerica reported that Hestla challenged the Companions to a match. Not only did she lose badly to Athis but most of the Companions beat her horribly and let her go. Aela said that even she could best Hestla easily and she wasn't using her Beast Form. Hestla had to be dragged back to the castle by one of Orthgolf's minions to recover.
Valerica also reported that Feran Sadri has been traveling all over Skyrim with his assistant, Ronthil to retrieve more potions and poisons since they couldn't exactly raid or pillage like the old days.
Fura Bloodmouth is content to stay as she didn't care about politics but that's only a minor detail.
Nearly a decade later, Alester and Serana have two children: a boy named Gawen and a girl named Elyana. When Valerica heard of the news, she was ecstatic at being a grandmother and spoiled the kids silly. She and Garan Marethi now act as de-facto parents for these two children since Alester and Serana won't be around most of the time but promised that they will tell the children of their real parents.
They heard that Mors and Frea have three children too: a girl named Tya and two boys named Daven and Amory. From what they hear, Mors had given his two boys to the Companions so they may one day to become Harbingers like their father while Frea took their daughter to Storn to learn the ways of the Skaal and be a Shaman like her mother.
Ordering Sahrotaar to stop for a while, Alester fired another Bloodcursed Arrow at the sun and flew to the Throat of the World where they greeted Paarthurnax. They happened to see Mors and Frea who are riding on Odahviing and compete each other for a race.
While the two dragons and their riders raced around Skyrim, Alester mused to his wife. "Let this be our legacy as the Volkihar Vampires. Let no man or elf threaten another and let no one be terrified of the Night for they will sleep soundly knowing that no harm will come to them or their children. Vampires will no longer be seen as beasts but as beings of the night and magic users. Serana, you and I will hold the Volkihar Vampires together and forge a new society. And we will have our birthright as champions and leaders..."
Serana Sarwyck smiled and embraced her husband's back.
The Dawn of Darkness has come. The Volkihar Vampires have retaken Skyrim and with it..their legacy...
The End.
(Notes)
My third and last Skyrim fanfic. I will no longer write any more fanfics about Skyrim as I am finished with them. This is the first fanfic I've written that introduces OC main characters. Like the first two fanfics I've written, this one is standalone too and does not crossover with those fics. Thanks for reading.