I've never been a fan of the way Harkon was portrayed in the game, especially when Dawnguard had the potential to be such a great story. I've tried to stay somewhat true to the character, and his paranoia, but he certainly didn't get to where he is without being both clever, and ruthless. The idea of the dragonborn, whether as a mortal siding with the Dawnguard, or a fledgling vampire so easily taking him down just didn't sit right with me, so I've given him a proper foe. His own daughter.

Serana is a daughter of Coldharbour, and in my opinion, anyone who sees her as weak, submissive, or childish is missing the point. She grew up with this ruthless bastard as a father, and an extremely powerful necromancer as a mother. She survived an ordeal that few have, and as evidenced by in-game dialog, she sees her vampirism as a gift. Before she and Valerica left with the scrolls, she spent countless years surrounded by ancient, powerful vampires at Daddy's Court, which means she's probably learned a thing, or two. Serana is not some pushover, and she certainly won't be portrayed that way whenever she makes an appearance in this story.

As for Thorvaldr...  The next few entries will reveal a lot of his past, his connection to the Volkihar Clan, and his reasons for curing himself of vampirism when he did.

Anyway... I hope you all enjoy this one.

Vinglamo,

My agents in Winterhold have just sent word of Sif's death. With her dead, Ilona remains the last of Thorvaldr's Progeny. When you send her from this Hall, I want her followed. I have no doubt that she will lead us straight to her Sire, and if we are fortunate, she will also lead us to Vimar and anyone foolish enough to shelter him. When you have found them, kill the girl, and bring Thorvaldr before me. I have something very special in mind for the end of his cursed bloodline. Do not fail me!

TO BE CONTINUED...