(Private) Return of the Vampire Legion: Past Transgressions

[Killjoy]

Maelstrom growled "I dont care what you are here for..." he said as he unleashed his black aura, once again consuming the entire fort. "I knew I sensed a familiar presence a year ago..." the stone floor beneath maelstrom cracked and buckled. "But here is the thing former lord..." he slowly rose up back to his feet and stood steadfast against Apollo's force of command. "It doesn't matter who you help, it doesn't matter where you go, it doesn't matter how much you know..." he glared down at Apollo "you can not save them...and you have the audacity to call yourself the rightful ruler as if you didn't forfeit that right when you fell all those centuries ago." Maelstrom took a step forward "though the only reason you still sit there is because I wish to satiate my curiosity."

[NamelessTrax]

Ally rose up with Maelstrom, finding it surprising that it was Apollo all this time, but still this really didn’t effect her true goal. Shade had also risen at the same time, they had all been caught off guard initially, but he had to admit this is a powerful Trait if used correctly. From the reports a thousand years ago, Apollo knew exactly what he was doing. Apollo’s return would explain Shadow’s recent behavior, was this what he meant from earlier? Slowly the rest of the Silent Fang began to stand up, able to shoulder the weight of Apollo’s Commanding Trait. Noctus was in complete surprise, but his eyes shined with hope and joy, ‘My Lord Apollo! You are alive and well!’ He thought to himself eagerly. Chandler noticed Black Star was having a harder time rising to stand, guessing it involved more than just physical strength to overcome this Trait.

[ApolloDelphi]

Fear rose shortly after Shade, backing up to stand by the exit. Apollo kept his glowing purple eyes on Maelstrom. “I always did enjoy your delusions of grandeur Maelstrom. As I recall you were the Leader that lost the war and forced the Silent Fang into hiding all these years. It seems neither of us are truly fit to lead... which brings me to why I am really here. As you look around you may notice Shadow is missing. He has begun his own journey along with quite a few of your batkin brothers and sisters. This endless cycle of training and bloodshed Maelstrom has set you on does not have to be your only way of life. 

I am here now to give you that choice and provide you safe escort out of here. Shadow awaits you and will lead you to see true greatness and fulfillment. Total annihilation is not all there is in this world. For some of you this is all there is and I accept that. For others you are getting a chance to start fresh and live up to the expectations that you set yourself, not those forced upon you by a dictator. For one of you... the future holds a leaf, waiting to be plucked out of the breeze.” Apollo said glancing at Shade for a brief second with the end of his speech. “If any of what I said tempts you please follow me. For those of you thinking about killing me here, just know, you’re not the only ones who have been training for the last thousand years.” He stated his trait weighing down on them to prove the truth of his words. With that Apollo turned and began walking towards the exit. 

[NamelessTrax]

Shade felt himself be caught off guard by his words, remaining still he pictured Leaf in his head, probably waiting for him to explain himself. Immediately Noctus was beside Apollo, dipping his head respectfully, “I will follow you, Master.” He said honorably. Suddenly footsteps sounded as a powerful looking man stepped through his brethren, Ragnorak Earthfall, he followed in Apollo’s path. Ignoring the glares around him. Another slipped on a cowboy hat and followed after Ragnorak, the spurs on Seven Shot’s boots clicking as he walked, becoming the only sound in the room. Lastly, a lithely built woman stepped into stride with them, Echo Locke. As Black Star finally got to his feet, Shade started walking down the aisle, his eyes looking straight ahead as he fell into step beside Apollo. “Traitorous sc-“ He was cut off as the weight bore down even more, forcing him to a knee again. Chandler glanced at him but didn’t say anything, ‘Shades choice was obvious, but for him to be the last to move.... it is surprising...’ He thought to himself. Ally watched carelessly from her couch, this didn’t concern her, and frankly she’d get a show out of it later. The small group approached the doors, in which Fear stood in their path, the other Members murmured between themselves quietly. Confused why their brothers and sister would choose to go against Maelstrom like this?

[ApolloDelphi]

Fear let Apollo pass by with the others before putting his hand on a shoulder, stopping Shade. “What are you thinking?” He asked, his normal emotionless composure replaced with that of shock and betrayal. The two had worked together on countless occasion over the years and were an absolute terror when fighting together. Fear looked up to shade and it drove him to be stronger himself. Fear had always been loyal to Maelstrom differing from Shade who’s loyalty had always resided with Shadow. But he had never thought this would be how it ended.

[NamelessTrax]

Shade looked at Fear in surprise, sure they worked well together and were an unstoppable force, but was he so blind to not notice Fear thought more of it than just simple teamwork? Shade continued on, letting Fear’s hand fall from his shoulder, “Now is not the time...” He whispered evenly as he followed Apollo and the others out through the doors. Just outside the doors, mere feet from it, were over a dozen Batkin Legionnaires. They were flat against the ground, unable to move or even speak as they were being effected by Apollo’s trait.

 

Chandler chuckled, “This has been an interesting day indeed.” Turning to Maelstrom, “My Lord, given the light of circumstances, we should hold off and regain ourselves. A humble suggestion, My Lord.” He offered his advice with a curt bow. 

[ApolloDelphi]

Fear vanished, appearing again leaning against the wall behind Maelstrom next to Ally’s couch. “Get up you fool.” He said eyeing Black Star still struggling. He folded his arms waiting for Lord Maelstrom’s response.

[NamelessTrax]

Black Star’s face contorted with rage, the feeling of being unable to stand while even Chandler could, it drove him mad. Ally eyed Fear curiosly, paying no mind to Black Star, this would keep her entertained till her Killjoy returned. Still a thought occurred to her, did Caesar see this coming? No, this was a different matter all together, though she had to wonder why They chose to follow Shadow. It’s not something they just up and decided, this was a choice being waited on to make.

[Killjoy]

Maelstrom looked on as the ones he called family just turned their back on him so easily. Maelstrom put a hand on his chest, his anger was quickly replaced with grief over such a betrayal. "So...this is how we are going to play this game...?" He whispered to himself before regaining his usual calm composure, he glanced at Chandler "if we held back now, it give the humans time to fortify and dig in. We must keep pressing the attack to keep them busy. We must find a way to make up for this huge loss. We will have a very difficult time otherwise."

[NamelessTrax]

As Apollo got further away, Black Star could finally stand, sensing his chance at glory. “Then may I suggest something My Lord?” He inquired with an evil smirk, sweat stll beading on his face from stress.

 

 

[ApolloDelphi]

Apollo eyed his group with curiosity. Clearing his throat to break the uncomfortable silence Apollo spoke over his shoulder to his followers. “Shade I know why you’re here, the rest of you however I’m unclear to your motives. Now is as good time as any to get reacquainted. I will then answer as many questions you may have until we reach our destination. Seeing as it has been countless years I’m sure you have many.”

[NamelessTrax]

The small group were a good distance away from the Vampire Legions Black Fort, Shade made a quick glance down at Apollo, curious about his whereabouts since his supposed death. Ragnorak was the first to speak up, with a thick Scandian accent, “Bein’ honest, I din’t really think of anotha’ option outside the Legion, an’ Maelstrom. Now that et’s  been may’d perfectly clear we no longa’ follo’ Nightmare Moon, the wor’rld jus’ seems.... morr’ open. Tis a false Free Will within they’ Legion, and they’ Silent Fang, now things have changed.” Echo followed up next, “You’re appearance gave us that final push, a sign that we have do have a choice, our Free Will to choose our own path. I’ve had enough with all the High and Mighty talk, a thousand years of brooding on our failure is just exhausting, there’s gotta be more to life.” Seven chimed in after with a shrug, and an obvious westernized draw, “We saw a little bit of the world durin’ our countless scoutin’ parties, and we started ta realize somethin’, wut’ if we started over? We ah own people, we could have ah own kingdom and live side by side with the rest of the world, without all this mindless anger and tireless aggression towards Humans and Equestria. Ragnorak, Echo, an I, all considered leavin’ at one point, but we din’t  wanna jus’ wander aimlessly. All thanks to Shadow for finally givin’ us a reason, an a new purpose. Though,” He paused giving Noctis a confused glance, “You’re a surprise Partner, never thought you share’d the same feelin.” Noctis remained with his stare fixated on Apollo, “I don’t, I only came along for Master Apollo.” He answered simply. Shade raised an eyebrow, then became conscious of his and Shadows relationship, ‘Is this how people perceive me?’, he thought to himself as he watched Noctis overly idolize over Apollo. A familiar presence brought his attention to their front, Shade grew wide with joy as he recognized Shadow standing in the middle of the path. 

[Killjoy]

Maelstrom glanced back at Black Star, a little disappointed that the one boasting about his power was the last to stand. Though one thing he could not deny was Black Star's aptitude for the dark arts. Maelstrom sighed "then by all means Black Star, tell us all about the greatness that goes on in your mind." He paused to correct his sarcastic tone. "Any idea would help at this point, so please explain what you are planning, we are all ears."

 

Killjoy looked through all the scrolls Azure gave her before his passing. She scanned over them with great focus as if trying to find something. She stopped with the oldest scroll available "there it is..." she mumbled looking at a small map that showed the location of the old tomb of the veils. Killjoy looked up as Luna, who was finally awake, walked through the door "why are you going through those old dusty scrolls again?" She asked. Killjoy glanced at the small map again "Azure handed me these scrolls that held information about my ancestors...but the thing is, there are some missing, these scrolls stop at around five millennia ago. But we all know its goes farther than that." Whe answered. Luna clocked her head to the side "ok...?" She said confusingly. Killjoy thought for a moment "well I'm thinking there is more down in this tomb. So I'm planning on taking a small expodition down there to see what I can find. Hopefully something that can give me what I need." She said rolling the old scroll up and putting it in a small satchel. "How long do you think that will take?" She asked. Killjoy shrugged "no more than a week." She answered. Luna nodded "well let us keep our fingers crossed" she said smiling. Killjoy gave a nod "agreed." She said before heading out the door.

[ApolloDelphi]

“Well I appreciate your candor. Ah Shadow, at last. I’m proud of this path you have chosen for your self. I’ll let you lead things from here.” Apollo said proudly before hopping up on Shadows left shoulder facing the new recruits.

 

 

[NamelessTrax]

Black Star didn’t even take notice to Maelstroms jab, “For the past year I have been experimenting with Black Magic and it’s uses.” As his eyes lit up with the cursed purple and green flare, Black Star cast a green and black mist onto the ground. From its ashes rose a black rock golem, standing twice their size and having a green lava leak out from their eyes. “They have super strength and other abilities, and do not require much magic to create, I can have a Legion ready within a few days. Our numbers will increase far beyond the Equestrians, and with their mindlessness, they will slaughter anything ordered to. A completely obedient soldier, all for you My Lord.” He presented proudly, his eyes wide with a wild joy. Chandler noted the look in those eyes, this was the beginning of Black Star’s fall into insanity, learning Black Magic was only speeding up the process. Though he was curious, noticing Black Star was present the other project he was working on.

 

Shadow looked over the trio and Noctis, who was starring starryed eyed at Apollo. He wasn’t expecting so many to join them, the surprise caught him off guard, “I appreciate you all for joining us-“

”You. We joined you, an the Cause ya represent, Shadowed Heart.” Ragnorak cut in before taking a knee, Seven and Echo did the same, bowing their heads. “From dis moment, an until our dyin breath, we swear fealty to ye.” Shadow was again caught a little off guard, but glanced oddly at Noctis as he just there smiling. “Oh I’m here to follow Master Apollo, but I will assist should he ask it of me.” Noctis said with a slight bow. Shade again felt self conscious of how he behaved with Shadow. Shadow motioned for them to rise, “I humbly accept you’re loyalty. Echo, there are over a hundred Batkin refugees hidden away, they will need someone to keep them safe.” Echo dipped her head, “It would be an honor My Lord.” Her response made Shadow smile awkwardly as he gave her note with directions, “Gratitude, I leave them in You’re hands.” Echo bowed one last time to Shadow before taking off. Turning to look down the path ahead, Shadow sighed reluctantly, “This next part is going to be trickier, bare with me on this.” He told them with uncertainty as they headed in the direction of the Equestrians Frontline HQ.

 

Inside the Leaders tent, Trax went over the map table, his eyes analyzed everything with such rigor. Killjoy had escorted Celestia back to Canterlot, having a brief conversation about her next plan before she left. Trax hoped this would at least put Ally out of the picture, as she had an obvious obsession towards Killjoy. However, Ally wasn’t the only powerhouse the Vampire Legion have. Flint was still groggily stoking the fire, too weak still to notice a sudden change in the atmosphere. Around Triton, the shadows began to move slightly, to which only he could clearly see.

 

At the HQ’s front gate, the guards began to grow nervously on edge, as a small group of Batkin approached in the distance.

[ApolloDelphi]

At first the flickering of the shadows did not interest Triton. He thought his eyes may be playing tricks on him due to his fatigue. Until the moment his mind noticed a pattern In the flickering. Due to his position in the army and his intelligence, Triton had been trained in all the different forms of codes known to the Equestrians. This was an older form using an encryption within a morse code. His mind began unraveling the code until he abrubtly stood alert in shock. Retrieving his trident from a nearby weapon stand he stood at the entrance to the Leader’s tent. “You all need to follow me outside, no time to explain. Be on your guard but do not attack yet.” Triton turned to walk out the tent muttering one last word. “Batkin.”

[NamelessTrax]

At first everyone moved, then paused as their bodies responded to their still fatigues bodies, realizing how much they needed to work on handling Traits better. Heading out the tent and towards the front gate, Soldiers were already on guard and gathering, one the Captains detailing the description on the Batkin. The more notable ones being Shadow and Shade. Movement from the small group of Batkin caught everyone’s attention as they lined the wall, looking like white cloth tied on a stick. 

 

The one holding the stick wore a black cowboy hat, “Am Ah doin this right? Weh haven’t had to do this before.” He called out to them in an obvious western accent.

 

Kasey frowned, “I feel like we’re being insulted, by a surrendering enemy...” He mumbled with annoyance. Oakly glanced at his father, not sensing any hostility from the enemy, and guessed Trax was feeling the same. Flint then raised his eyebrows, “Oh, Apollo is with them.” That brought everyone’s attention to the lead of the Batkin group, where Apollo was perched on Shadow’s right shoulder.

 

Ragnorak punched Seven’s shoulder, taking the makeshift white flag from him, “Gimme that, an stohp ya talkin fore ya git us in trouble.” Shadow glanced back at Shade, who gave him a nod in return, confirming he sent word ahead.

 

As the Shadow and his group approached the gate, Trax walked out to meet him, flanked by Flint and Triton. The two groups stood with just five feet between them. “How’s the arm?” Trax asked blantly, Flint actually almost lost it in shock. Shadow smirked, “It won’t be a problem, my mind has been made clear to purpose.” He replied simply. Trax narrowed his eyes, then looked at Apollo, “I take it this has been your behind the scenes project?” 

[ApolloDelphi]

“It’s true, I’ve had a rough plan all this time. I know my batkin better than anyone other than Nightmare Moon. Even with the distractions of the past war I was always paying attention to what could become of the members. I’ve made it clear in the past that I do not fully agree with All Equestrian beliefs and that I would help find a way to end the Silent Fangs tyranny. You all have traits but lack the experience to utilize them to the best of your abilities. My kin here, are your best bet to achieving that. Now with that said I will be taking a step back from here. Many of you have met my son, Shadowed Heart, He is the leader here and I encourage you to address him. I am simply no more than an advisor to this group.” Apollo nodded his head politely and then turned to look at Shadow gesturing his head for him to speak before turning and jumpin across shoulders finally resting on Noctis’s. “Once the fire dies here, let’s you and me have a chat.” Apollo said for Noctis to hear.

 

Triton has unconsciously put himself between Arial and the Batkin. As his eyes analyzed the trespassers he rested on Shade focusing on him the whole time. Unusual feelings got brought up from deep inside him, as emotions were not his strong suit relying on logic for every answer. Is it possible he could feel joy at the sight of this enemy he had faced twice before? Triton listened carefully waiting for Trax, his mentor, to make a call.

[NamelessTrax]

Noctis nodded quickly, but his face was alit with pure joy, as if having Apollo on his shoulder was a huge life goal.

 

Trax focused solely on Shadow, “It’s fairly obvious where this is going, so I’ll let you state you’re case, and then we can proceed from there.” Shadow met Trax’s gaze evenly, “Agreed. As of now, Myself, Shade Locke, Ragnorak Earthshatter, Seven Shot, Noctis, and Echo Sound, along with over a hundred Batkin Legionnaires, have denounced ourselves from the Vampire Legion and Maelstrom. Allegiance has been sworn unto Me, as their new Leader, they are my people now. As such, My people are without a home, and now await in hiding with Echo watching over them. I am not ignorant of the blood each of us have stained on out hands, nor am I asking for you’re forgiveness. I am only here because we now share a common enemy, and because we are both fighting for Peace.” His explanation sounded fair and truthful, but after everything that had happened in the past, it was hard to trust the faces of their once feared enemies. Trax glanced between the other Batkin, besides their obvious loyalty to Shadow, he felt no bloodlust from them. With a sigh, Trax turned and waved them to follow, “Come with me, Triton, prepare to contact Princess Celestia and Luna. They need to hear this themselves.” He added to his former student as he started back through the gates. Oakly and Kasey stared wide eyed in shock, Jag and Arial went grim and exchanged concerning looks. Flint stood firm as the Batkin passed by him, Trax was right, their body heat didn’t fluctuate at all, they spoke that truth with every word. Shade came closer to Triton, feeling a connection to him, he dipped his head in acknowledgment. Then continued to follow Shadow with the others as Trax led them into the encampment.

[Killjoy]

Maelstrom stood up and examined the stone golem carefully "these could work, traditional weapons would have little if no effect on their stone flesh, however." He paused for a moment "I have a feeling that our former brothers and sisters will not be taking the simple exile route. Knowing Shadow, he will be seeking the humans for a disgusting hope for peace. That will most likely involve forming an alliance. Have the golems be durable enough to fight former Silent Fang. Also while you are constructing these golems, try to find something that would let us keep the advantage. We are not going to be one step behind again." He glanced at all the Silent Fang left. "And in want everyone to keep they skills and strength at peak performance, we cant afford time for leisure." He said as he sat back down on his throne, resting his cheek on his fist. Even after everything that has happened in such a short amount of time, he remained still, collected, like a iron wall that refused to budge under the pressure that broke the wills of many. Maelstrom thought hard on what his next would be.

[ApolloDelphi]

Triton acknowledged Shade and fell in line behind Trax. When they got back to the tent Triton conjured a swirling mirror of water. “Connection established, we are ready.” Triton spoke as an image from the kingdom came into view with the two princesses staring back.

[NamelessTrax]

Black Star dipped his head with a slight bow, a wide an unsettling grin crossing his face, "It will done, My Lord. I have another project in the works, one that will give us the advantage you desire... and more." He added gleefully before teleporting away. Chandler examined the golem curiously, then from the palm of his own hand, conjured a flame of Black Magic. "I wonder..." He pondered as he blew the flame into the golem, infusing it with a larger amount of Black Magic than it previously held. Instantly the golem sprung to life, swinging at Chandler, but the short stubby man merely caught its molten fist with ease. Suddenly the Golem imploded with green magical worms, devouring it into nothing, then slithering back under Chandler. "It seems only Black Star's magic can be used on them, or else they attack... Interesting." He pondered to himself as he scratched his white beard.

 

Celestia leaned in closer, causing her eye to cover the whole screen, "Should I be worried?" She asked with concern as she backed up. Trax sighed, "There is no need, regrettably we wouldn't be making this call if they were hostile, let alone alive to even try." He commented jokingly before stepping back. Shadow stepped in to stand center, then took a knee. Shade, Seven, and Ragnorak went wide in surprise, but then followed suit. "Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, we have committed many wrongdoings against you and your people, and I will not ask for your forgiveness. I come before you now as the Leader of little over a hundred Batkin, who have left the Vampire Legion, to live in Peace. I am offering my services, along with my entrusted advisors, to aid you in defeating Maelstrom and his Legion. To aid you in bringing peace for Human, and Batkin." Shadow's left the tent quiet. Trax raised an eyebrow, noticing he didn't mention Apollo at all, He's doing this Himself. A risky move, but one that proves his motives. 

 

Back at Canterlot, Celestia looked at her sister, "What are your thoughts?" She whispered so not to be heard through the mirror call.

[Killjoy]

Luna shrugged "I dont trust it, I guess more skeptical to the idea. Yesterday our enemy and today wants to be friends. In times of war, this would raise all the red flags imaginable. Trust however...is earned...they want our trust, let's see how much they are willing to give for that trust. I dont know about you, but I want absolutely everything they know, down to the size boot each soldier wears. Until then, we need to keep them under guard and to never leave our sight. I can see to it that they dont do anything that would threaten our safety." She said pitching in her thoughts. "We can always deny them and send them elsewhere. It's your call."

[NamelessTrax]

Celestia nodded in agreement, “I agree, so lets do this.” She started as she faced the screen again. “All Intelligence regarding the Vampire Legion will debriefed from all of you separately. Trax, you will assign someone to watch over each of them, pair up if needed.” She paused to glare directly at Shade, “The use of Black Magic, or Necromancy, is strictly Forbidden. I will not have that accursed and corrupt power be used by anyone on our side, or claiming to be. Am I understood?” She demanded sternly. Shade dipped his head, “I swear it upon my life.” He answered calmly. “Consider our Aliance forfeited, and Us gone from this very continent, if He does.” Shadow followed up. Celestia eyed them all with narrowed eyes, she had her doubts, but their knowledge and strengths would be a huge tip of scale in their favor. She would have words with Apollo upon his return, figuring this had probably been his plan all along. “One last thing, You’re people, the ones who follow You’re Leadership.” She began hesitantly. Shadow stood up, his eyes grew serious with a protective drive, “I have one former Silent Fang with them now, they are all well trained fighters, with the armor and weapons to match. I am not asking for asylum, nor do they need it. I have already kept them waiting for too long, and have lost a few because of my ignorance. I will not fail them or bring them close to harm. They are my People, and I am sure you can relate.” He spoke evenly but with a stern tone, he would not give ground ao easily on this matter. There was a moment of silence between the two, before Celestia spoke, “Soon you will take me to them, so I may meet them myself.” Shadow dipped his head, “I will await you’re call.” At that the connection was cut. Trax tapped his foot in thought, “First things first, we’ll debrief you all separately, then assign groups. Shadow, you’re with me.” He said confidently. Shadow smiled, “The honor is mine, Colonel.”

 

 

[ApolloDelphi]

“I shall come up with the new... partnerships whil you interrogate then colonel.” Triton said while sizing up the new allies.

 

”I hereby take full responsibility for Noctis and his actions from here on out. He will be coming and going as I do as my escort.” Apollo announced confidently. Leaning in a little closer he whispered meanacingly. “Do not doubt my power lad, if I decide your intentions to be unjust, I will kill you myself before you can even blink.” To prove his point Apollo’s shape flickered and appeared on Noctis’s other shoulder simultaneously showing off extreme speed. “Now, let’s go for a walk shall we?” He said smiling, the menacing behavior now a thing of the past.