(This will be updated eventually. Things I will be adding are:
A separate canon and non-canon biography
Vampiristic traits
A story covering how he became a half-blood (Don't worry, he's not overpowered via' canon. I did a lot to balance this as I love vampires.)
A better explanation of Kylinrath and their culture customs
A better explanation of the Rogues (Shynivah Ka' Clan)
How he met Wynnie
Things I will be editing:
Canon Biography (It's a bit messy and hasn't been updated)
Statistics
Images )

Note: The character below is meant for (Dark) Romance, Grim-Dark, Comedy, Adventure, (Dark) Fantasy Heed this warning if you are not a fan of some generic material twisted to my liking. It's not exactly easy avoiding something that has already been done by another!

Name: Nyliax 'Raven' Nightingale
Surname: "Azores"
Age: Twenty-Nine
Gender: Stallion (Male)
Race: Mixbreed/Hybrid [ Bat-Pony(Equine) + Side-Striped Jackal (Canine) ]
OoB: Ky'linrath, K'oraul, District 8
Birthday: October 10th
Height (On all fours): 4' 4"
Weight: Nosy bastard!...Healthy enough.
Eyes: Emerald
Mane/Tail color: Raven Black
Coat color: Grey
Favorite Food: Medium-Rare filet mignon with a Caesar's salad.
Favorite Drinks: White Apple and Cherry juice or whiskey.
Favorite Music/Bands: Rock N' Roll, Video Game music/ Guns N' Roses, Transistor OST, Castlevania
Favorite Movie: Inception
Favorite Book: ???
Favorite color: Mahogany
Favorite Treat: Strawberry Cheesecake
Cutie Mark/Talent: Thieves mask pierced by a dagger; Presumed talent to be a Thief of some sort.
Accent: Light German/Syrian.

Marital Status: Married to Gwynneth "Wynnie" Nightingale (Domasiir)!

Parental Status: Father to his children Rhys and Echo!

Occupation(s):
[Confidential]: [REDACTED]
Hunter: Freely hunts game for either; a meal, supplements, or trading
Free-Lance Assistant/Mercenary: Paid to perform a task via contract, or in-person.
Fence: Acquitted to trade for stolen goods; reasons asked why he does so is forbidden.
Devoted Husband and Father: If this doesn't make sense, shoo!

Personality: (+ to - ) Calm, selfless, honest, loyal, (very) playful, charming, loving, protective, understanding, curious, mischievous, sly...(Greatly) misunderstood, short tempered, (too) emotional sometimes, cruel, blunt, cynical, stubborn, can hold a grudge, passionate hate for common society and ponies.

(Appearance(s)): http://imgur.com/bPXIf0B,UHZfmjN,2BEPEdA,nVM99VV,UI4I8GI,HBQhoit,pv9Pwj5,0ZD7VAF,hg65WvJ#8

Strengths: /Very/ flexible for an equine. Through rigorous training and continued practice in keeping fit an able, he is also granted an exquisite stamina pool, capable of accomplishing many endurance-consuming tasks. Able to stay awake for multiple days, analyzing and planning for days if he must to accomplish a mission or contract. What he lacks in strength, he makes up for in his rather bolstering speed and aggressiveness, able to chase and hunt down his targets without relent, and is an avid flier as well (at night, of course.) While he lacks and truly 'special' abilities, he has been given plenty of knowledge from his companions and his family of Rogues. Proficient in CQC, tracking/hunting, scouting, guerrilla tactics, ambush, thievery, heists, and (sometimes) being a leader. Being a nocturnal creature of the night, he is absolutely proficient at his finest during the early evening, up until the break of dawn. His apt natural gifts of high sense of direction and hearing, and his sharp, keen eyesight gives him a great advantage in the dark. An additive would be the venom he has stored in his fangs. Unlike most bat-ponies, him being a hybrid has somewhat softened the effects, which were a anti-coagulant and a neuro-toxin; becoming paralyzed and unable to form clots for up to 3 minutes. Venom takes up to (1) day total to replenish. His strong sense of determination and loyalty have made him a valuable asset in many missions outside the lands of Equestria and Ky'linrath. His presence has helped morale and even helped the Rogues branch very far and wide into many regions of territory, giving flexible control and underground operations to work freely and smoothly. EXTREMELY protective of his wife, children and sister. Threatening them triggers his 'guard dog' instincts...it is best not to threaten any of them, as he puts himself forward for all of them.

Weaknesses: Very-hot headed temper when managed to become 'ticked off.' It typically gives him tunnel-vision, losing his practical sense of awareness as he focuses his anger all upon the aggressor. He is also only mortal, he does have feelings and emotions for others, and that can also become a hindrance to some of the more 'vital' of tasks that can become life-threatening. He sometimes tries too hard to protect others, sacrificing his own safety completely to protect others when he too--must be considered an important member. He sometimes relies too much on his wits as well, forgetting the training he's been given and tries to 'get around' things in order to make things easier for himself instead of relying on his instinct to guide him. He also tries to tackle situations he cannot handle by himself, knowing full well he must work with his members in order to accomplish a task. He tends to consider himself a 'lone-wolf' rather often, but not indefinitely. He also despises the sun. The sun has a major hindrance on his eye-sight, and makes him feel far too vulnerable to operate what-so-ever in the dead of morning. He is typically sleeping of course during this time, but if he does wake (which he would, and be very cranky as well) he never leaves without his hood on, to protect himself from those harmful rays. Despite how quick, nimble and flexible he is, it doesn't make him invulnerable nor' frail. Unlike some of his other huskier members, he's very susceptible to injury, the only thing keeping him up and riled to fight and take a blow is his fierce determination and hardiness, but--once more, he tends to push his limits quite often, going too far and injuring himself to threatening levels. He is also very easy to tease and get 'riled up' in other fashions when it comes to a lover or very loved and reliable partner or companion--as much as he persists in being loyal, calm and down-to-earth, he's a stallion, and still rather young--his body still active, carnal/feral, and the wild blood that runs in his veins for him being of foreign descent.

Miscellaneous: He is an Omnivore (Prefers meat)
LOVES strawberries, peaches, and cherries.
Drinks blood (Rarely)
Teeths (Uncommon condition)
/Never/ is without his hoodie on (Except for around a few 'special' companions.♥)
Enjoys playing fetch, tug-o'-war, and playing rough [Even more with loved ones]
Easily calmed down with belly rubs. (Love them <3)
Known to bite upon being teased!
Has a special chew toy. No stealing. (Will do anything to get it back if misplaced.)


(Name) History: The month of October is The Month of the Winged Beasts, culturally accurate to his homeland's lore and legends, his family of thieves granted him Raven as his nickname, attributing a dark winged creature similar to himself, tying it to his birth-given month. Nyl'iax, which is what he has a vast majority of individuals identify him as, in his native tongue, means "Loyal Fool". His willingness to be accepted and helpful in communities, loyal to a cause he wishes to do right by because his beliefs grant him the excuse that what they desire is the right thing for him to accomplish, are traits granted by the stars, twined in his threads of fate. Nightingale is his last name, his family name. It carries weight, responsibility and honor to be called a Nightingale in the lands of Ky'linrath, and much more in his home district, Ko'ural

His name bares markings across Ky'linrath, tainted by his existence.
(V Someday this Chronology will be a full-blown story from day one of his birth. V )
Chronology: From when Raven was conceived; the bond of Thestral and canine bringing life to a beautiful child, they knew he would be loved and hated. The quiet city-state of K'oural was perfect to raise him. To reinforce and encourage for the hardships he would surely endure, as it is the way all of his hybrid kind must face in this beautiful, but harshly judging land. His district was peaceful...calm and docile. They city folk typically minded their own business, they only knew your face and name if you made them known.

At the fresh age of just a simple, innocent colt--Raven had wondered what the outside world was like. Beyond his City-State. Beyond his district. His parents trusted him alone in K'oural, the inhabitants were trust-worthy and loyal, if not all rather awkward folks. Peddlers tended to come to' and fro' from the neighboring city-states, even some have made their way from Equestria or The Pale to seek riches for their fine products. A few Peddlers from Cl'ranka had found themselves in the market square in K'oural, selling goods for anyone willing to spend their hard-earned bits on such luxury. The curious colt, so naive and blind to the world approached the stand, examining everything his eyes could take in. There was jewelry, spices, gifts...toys. A folded kite caught his attention, a smile breaking across his face as he rested his hoof upon it to take a closer look. Only to be halted by one of the peddlers, a snarling remark of what a daring thief he was. "Such filth, touching OUR goods! What a rat, your Mother must have been one to teach you such manners...petty Thestral."
"Not even that, boss--he's a hybrid. Look at 'is ears."

Naturally Raven wasn't one to get into fights, but his Mother was his world, even at the age of seven. He growled, giving one sharp, stabbing insult towards the peddlers. He had a short temper as a child, and it would forever be that way. The peddlers were angry; such insolence and pathetic words coming from a creature they find worth less than dirt. As quick as they were angered, one of them struck the young colt, knocking him aside. "Brat. I'll teach you your place!"
He stood his ground as he riled himself to a stand. Raven was little, but he was a fighter, despite his odds in this turnabout..he'd not dare back out as many bystanders watched the outburst. he waited in fear, expecting the worst this day...
From what was thought to be a harsh punishment for being born as what he was, something intervened. A cloaked figure, talons digging into the dirt, flaunted feathers, and a sultry, young voice came from the shadows that hid the stranger's face. Apologizing for Raven' behavior, he drew attention to himself, distracting the peddlers as he excused any ill harm towards their feelings. The peddlers were bitter...but they let this go; warning the Griffin to stay out of business he doesn't belong in. The stranger nodded, dragging the young colt along to a much safer location.

"You mustn't get into this kind of trouble..." the mysterious voice spoke. Raven just looked up at him...blinking with his large, emerald eyes in desperate confusion. A clawed talon patted him upon his head, leaving what seemed to be...the same kite he was looking at before; along with those words were compliments...for how brave he was to stand up for himself, how kindred their spirits were, the fire within their hearts like lost flames to a hearth. As quickly as he spoke while Raven admired this stolen gift, he was gone...leaving nothing more than a bonding remark. "See you again."
Raven didn't understand what that was supposed to mean. However...he did understand himself that he was upset. That he couldn't truly fend for himself against such belligerently racist outsiders. What made him so much less than them? Why was he not liked by others? Was there...something scary about him? Something he did that he cannot remember? He couldn't think much for a young colt...But he hated this strange feeling of being discarded or belittled for being something he was born as.

The colt eventually grew into stallion. A young teenager who eventually beheld more power. More responsibility. More wisdom and experience. He learned how to hunt...how to peddle. How to speak with etiquette. These meaningless lessons would hold plenty of use when he grows up, he just sadly cannot see them at such an age, for how naive he was compared to his Mother and Father. But what he didn't need maturity for in order to put it to use was how to hate. How to despise and how to hold a grudge against those who intended to wrong him. Raven was always so excited to see the other city-states...B'emishtyr, Cl'ranka, Vinx,Syksukara, and the other districts. But with his Father and stray caravans he joined in order to explore without his Father's wishes, he learned how corrupt and vile many of the districts that divided them truly were. How cruel...racist, and despicable many of the other townsfolk were in order to achieve greater good for themselves. How they would lie and slander to get what they had discrete intentions for even at the benefit of others--should they suffer or not. Even some of the mares in these lowly locations, and not to disregard the districts of finer class and suave...were tainted with lusting, bemusing sirens that sought money, or false promises for their company and undivided attention for 'pleasure.' He knew better...His Father was not someone he desired to be as he grew up, but he was a smart stallion, one who taught him very well. What he knew was how disgraceful these mares made their names unto himself. Would he be so dabbled with his carnal desires to be with every mare who'd give themselves to himself for simple coin? Never...he knew to share such pleasantries to those he deemed worthy or 'special' to him. If they happily returned such a affectionate clause...why say no for the effect that said individual would find bliss and Nirvana in his company, so say they desire to return such things to him as well? Lust was strong, but grows frail as they years roll by...time lasted where such an emotion could be shared between two who genuinely wished to lavish in it.

 He couldn't believe this is what kind of a world he was born into...what kind of corrupt, pitiful, racist, biased, and judgingly degrading land he had to call home. It was such a beautiful, magnificent place...but these...Equines, so many of them at flaw for what they have done to this place, this beautiful, beautiful land known as Ky'linrath.

Raven grew older...an adult worthy of the minute reputation his occurred under his family's name. He was recognized in his city to be just like his Father. Despite being in the 3rd class, he was proud to bear such recognition from the lower three classes--even some above him noticed his prowess...Raven didn't care. His wish to be accepted into a brandished society was not for him. Tarnished by what he saw through his years as a young boy...to now. He didn't want to fit into a society that judged him for his every action, for how he looked...for how he felt.
He left Ky'linrath one day to find what his heart truly desired. Freedom. Family. One that belonged to themselves, and not to someone greater than them. Love...would he find such a rare thing? His journey so far has taken him The Pale, to the North, where mountains were your neighbors and the snow was your blanket for the night. Even to the Isles that dotted the East...he's been to those places. Seen many folk just like the ones at home, but happily--many were free-spirited like he was. They didn't care for folly fact his mother was a jackal, or his father was a bat-pony. They accepted him...for him. Yet it didn't feel right. Not just yet. He would however return to these places...surely he would.

A fire for freedom danced within his heart, a burning passion mixed with the zesty heat of hate conflicted with his determination to find the silver lining in his hope...the cooling, relaxing release of his doubts and woes would one day leave him. That day came at many instances...

Raven one day ran into that Griffin once more...fate that connected the stars; weaving their paths together. His name was Dust. They knew one day they would see each other--at the time within Whitetail Woods. It was a quiet, deserted forest--rarely even used as a passageway for caravans or travelers...Raven just saw it as luck that the two would meet once again. Dust didn't see it that way...he knew this day would come, and he was prepared to exploit this long awaited plan. He sadly couldn't have executed it at the time Raven was a colt. The point where he saw this spark that kindled the burning fire in his heart, melting away his own chains of oppression. It was far too early. He needed a reason...as did Raven. That would be his hate. his yearning for freedom. It may have been a little more than a decade later...but better late than never. The two discussed their lives since they last saw each other. Spoke of philosophy...their futures, their wishes and goals in life. What they both wanted. Similar...conjoined.
Dust mentioned something of a Guild at this instance. An underground ecosystem of sophisticated bandits, criminals and black marketers that all consider one another valuable...a family member. They all hunted...killed, assassinated, stole, raided, blackmailed, and much, much more. It was their lives. It was who made up this vendetta. No one knew of them--and they have been around forever. Dust asked Raven if he ever figured he was the type to go against law and justice...to rebel against the norm that these societies set. Control was like chains with false promises laced within those iron links. The Royal Sisters were just as despised. The most they loved and hated them for was Night and Day, for they were the only ones to bring it upon this world. Dust gave his word that Raven would be accepted with open arms...that he'd be appreciated, but not bound by some sort of hierarchy. He would find his own fame, his own glory, his OWN riches for himself whenever he desired...all he was meant to do is swear an undying loyalty to them. That he would never betray his family. That he would serve and protect when they needed him...but he was free. All they wished from his was his oath. To be free from the rest of the world to live however he wished, along with the trusting ties of a large unbranded family that would stand at his side and never cower away.

"Would you join us...?"
"...Yes."

Years of training were battered and instilled into the determined body that belonged to Raven. He learned their ways. The ways of a Nightling. The ways of a Rogue...The free life of a Honor-bound thief. Why let all of these petty folk keep their greedy hooves on their pointlessly expensive treasures. Why let so many of these ponies roam this world while guilt weighs on their soul, but never on their choices? Why let such filth continue to plague this world? A dagger ready to plunge to exterminate such vile...foul pestilence. Someone would need him for such tasks. To remove temptation, to eradicate selfishness, to expunge blackened hearts.

Raven was who he was to this day. A renegaded rebel who lived in the shadows. A philosophical wisecolt who had his reasons to despise others. But he was not without those who he holds close to him...who's shown him different. Who have proven to him that not everything he finds defiled to be totally lost. He hasn't finished meeting those ponies...but there are a few who he remembers and some he still sees to this day.

Ventis met Raven one day. Purely by chance in an alcove within the Everfree forest. He knew one thing about Ventis; he was a nosy pony who was doing the same thing he was; spelunking for curiosities and wonders that laid in the locations of the unknown. Raven spoke to him, caution not at any instance being let down as he questioned the blonde-maned stallion. He was unusual. Hyper, too...something he couldn't honestly wrap his mind around. This stallion was rather innocent...there was a smile upon his face that never went away, no matter what Raven did. He still didn't like Ventis's curious appraisal, it was strange to have a common stranger not look at Raven with an impudent cringe or startled expression once approached or confronted by the quiet and collective Thestral. He knew Equestrians were...nervous around his kind. They were foreign. They hardly ever dealt with them, and he had been seen feasting on fresh game..who's to say those who ran away from him were worried he'd find a sweet snack out of another Equine? But not Ventis. After being told practically the most vitally startling facts about himself, there was not a hint of ignorant terror. Ventis just continued to smile while he followed his new 'friend' out in the open winds of the day's Dusk. Ventis inquired why Raven hated the light. Raven just bit his lip, the question too simple to require an answer. Ventis was a smart one, it was simply his curiosity that beckoned to hear an answer from Raven himself. As the two took off into the air, still managing to keep a connection between the two, Ventis had asked..."Would you be scared of the light if you could hold it and allow you to see your own path?"
Raven's eyes widened, wings flapping as he looked over at the stallion with his signature smile still intact, "What do you mean?"
Ventis cupped his hooves together as best he could, eyes closed as he simply kept quiet...a spur of heat and incandescence pooling into an orb in front of him. It was a sphere of pure, untouched light...It was unlike anything Raven's ever seen before Astonished by the stallion's magical gift, this...ability to call upon an element he despised most...he stared at it. As well as Ventis...who just lightly pushed it over to Raven. "Take it...it won't hurt ya'. Consider it a gift...like if you can't see which way to go, it'll help for sure, right? I know most other kinds of light bother you...but I promise. Mine's the nice kind!"
Raven just blinked...the orb entrancing him as he took the orb within his hooves, cupping it against his body as he stayed afloat alongside Ventis. He didn't have any words...not much could he think about as he held pure light within his grasp. He didn't know Ventis...he didn't know about such a random act of kindness. Nor could he have figured he'd ever dare take a moment to ponder the brilliance that light held, this hadn't harmed him...but it showed him something else, something more personal...He smiled.

Nightfall was a peculiar sort of mare. She was brash...stubborn. All about 'different' than the most bland of lasses Raven has bothered to keep a positive aspect and atmosphere around her. What more could he find from her other than she's one of the oddly few amount of mares he's spent at least an hour or two around without feeling uncomfortable? Well, that's a lie...he wasn't sure how to feel around Nightfall. He feels uncomfortable around every mare until he finds out what they're like, who they are, what they enjoy...the basics tend to speak about a pony rather well, there's just more complexity hidden underneath them that needs to be found on his own time. The two spent most of their days...doing what they loved. Stealing. Peddling and sparring, so many other things. They could consider they have an unusual bond at this point, even if it's rather distantly known that Raven has a spark about him Nightfall likes quite a bit. They found themselves in metaphorical ties. They haven't had a reason to leave each other's sides. Raven for his own reasons to have a very talented partner...even a friend. What's more, Nightfall has possibly granted herself the same desires. Why pass up on a partner of such skill for any reason? They obviously like one another. They could be the best damn duo of thieves to ever sunder through the streets of Equestria. Not to make a name for themselves...but to hold the pride that they could slip through any rank of guards with whatever loot they wanted. So far this duo has had plenty more to develop upon...what other treasures do they seek to plunder?

Moonglow was a peculiar sort for a filly...Well, for however old she was. He respects a lass at all ages, for their age is sometimes treated like a sacred number only known by themselves. The young filly was in a time of crisis...lost, cold and abandoned within one of the alleys of Cyndiville. It was a city far, far to the North. She hadn't anything to live for...she didn't know if she wanted to for much longer, but she continued to fight. There was a flame in her body that kept her going. Kept her alive and wanting to challenge anything that came her way. However...the thing to come into her life within a few seconds wouldn't be anymore of a challenge than it was a goal...The box that had begun to wither to nothing more than a damp cascade that barely kept the young lass dry and warm would be lifted away, the frail gloomy light that washed over Cyndiville leaped onto the shadows it could cling to, but not enough of it would reveal the mysterious figurine that hid its identity under the shadows of his hood. Moonglow only knew she was rather...frightened at first. What did they want?
"I'll fetch you a warm meal if you help me out of this city...Take some of these...uh, g-goods." the sultry voice of the figurine acquitted as he limped aside her, "You don't deserve to suffer in this cold..but life can't give you what you want just because you believe it desires to."
Raven was sure even this young mare would shriek for help. an orphan abandoned along the side of the road had every right to run away and call for aid. But he was in dire need during the time he turned to her. He was practically frozen--despite his natural habitat being accustomed to the cold, even he had his limits. He was astonished to see Moonglow lift up the small baggage and lead him out of harm's way, and better yet--away from the guard's that held a scrambled pursuit to find the thief who pulled off a heist at their Grande' museum.
Raven only knew that during the time the two aided each other to a more discrete location, they'd find something between each other. He hardly believed he could rely on another to help him commit a crime, but he did suspect that her young age made her somewhat naive, just like he was for relying on a simple Orphan...but it wasn't a terrible idea so far.
Eventually...after a dastardly long trip out of the city...they had one more trek to Vinux Manor. An abandoned structure that held paths to a few underground chutes that were connected to the Rogue's hideout after some heavy investment...Upon reaching it and making their way to the lovely, hidden hideout Raven called home...He noticed the little filly clinging to him within an instance the two were relieved of their 'duty'. He was absolutely confused...but he hesitantly patted the her on the back. For whatever reason, bringing her here had apparently saved her life. The cold embrace of death was ripped away from her, and replaced with the warm clutch of life. She thanked him...infatuation filling her heart. She was saved...he was some sort of hero. He didn't consider himself so by a long stretch...but such innocence wouldn't be spoiled due to him 'not having any use for her'. That was not true...By the time the clingy nature was over, Raven had dignified her a member of the Rogues with her hastily given acceptance. To Raven's good morals, bringing her here would mean he'd teach her everything he knew and find her special skill as a Rogue. All the while...Moonglow had herself a crush, and someone to look up to...

Dawn(Dusk) Aredio was another mare in Raven's life he had become acquainted with in his journeys. He met them during a short vacation by luck. The two never got along for some time, but despite this--they spent time with one another, sufficing for their lack of company by seeking one another out. Dawn was...intelligent. Much more bold, blunt and honest, much like himself. She was able to keep up with him when they spoke upon the subjects of philosophy. Raven was surprised she could match his statements, inquires and all around skepticism.
The two had grown feelings for one another, both had been through more than they had ever expected upon simply saying hello to each other in that inn. They grew fond of each other...found more within, compassion and even love rising at times--daring their connections as they at times split apart to tend to their own lives. However...At days when they sought each other out and spent more and more quality time with one another--Raven just found her to be that annoying little sister he never had and dearly loved. Dawn clearly saw the rambunctious, sly and 'mature' brother in him...They were glad they found one another, and have continued to let their sibling-like love grow and prosper. Raven finally found someone else he could call family that wasn't a member of The Rogues. It astonished him...Surprise was something he felt little of.

There were dry periods however in Raven's life. Folks he met who only sought to hurt or harm him. For the frail innocence within his heavy heart, it was ripped and torn apart even more than it already had been. It made him even more dim to his hopes in finding the good in those congested, corrupted populations of wrong-doing, filthy individuals. He had his days where during his journeys, trips, simple vacations--he came across a few...unsightly folk. Stallions who only factored a jealousy against him, or some unreasonable hate or determent of his existence; even more for the way he spoke to a few mares they too knew--they were just as vile, using their apparent allure and charm to reel him in for their own gain. How could they...to someone such as himself? There were too many names for him to recall, too many he didn't care to try and remember after his sometimes brief or prolonged encounters. These beings brought nothing but an even colder outlook on the young stallion...They would all try to use him for his tolerated kindness--his affections which rarely were granted to these deceitful wrong-doers would take advantage of him, through the acts of his gentle gestures, his out-spoken mind to see them happy, and for the act of intimate copulation...Raven only felt betrayed, hurt...angry. He couldn't find much hope, but those he knew he could trust...rely on. Those who genuinely care for him are sure to be enough...correct? His life still held mystery for him in the future. Where his fortunes would bring him, where his choices in life would lead him. He would continue to search. For honor, family, a purpose...love.

Raven was always being founded by all sorts of curious folk, despite how he preferred to be hidden from the public eye. he was not one to enjoy drawing attention from large crowds...If his face is known in a city or town that's not neighboring and friendly to his own, and the Rogues as well, he couldn't reveal his identity. Period. Of course...that wasn't very well respected in the jungles, and even the Everfree Forest during his trips through the apparently 'cursed' woods. He never knew what he'd ever find behind a tree or thick bushel. There was plenty for him to discover when he got lucky. But one day...he wasn't sure if it was luck or misfortune once he was pounced upon by a large, purple-scaled, coiled up naga-pony. Being greeted with a loud, hissing hello--Raven yelped and struggled to free himself from the coils of the large snake-creature. He was scared of snakes. And this was no excuse. He eventually managed to wiggle his way away from his assailant, defensive pose and weapon drawn as he quickly questions and inquires answers from her. The naga of course--panicked, quickly falling shy and scared from the sudden change of atmosphere. His hisses and growls were none too friendly...if there was one thing he found most repulsive and threatening is being surprised by strangers. The naga quickly explained herself, trying her best to keep a calm head as her eyes most obviously dangled across the sharp, well-kept blade of his dagger that was clenched between his jaws. Raven seemed to understand...she just lived out here on her own, seldom agenda. It wasn't her fault to jump onto a stranger. What's her excuse other than practically being alone all the time? That was it, wasn't it?...Ponies were afraid of her. He could relate. He settled his dagger back into his concealed sheath. As he looked over the naga, who hid her face behind her rather buoyant mane, he trotted forward. Offering his hoof. He gave his name, in which it rolled of his tongue with his smooth, unique accent. It was enough to excite the naga again, hope springing in her heart as she yanked him into a hug. "Egh..." he grumbled, hugging back. He was much more reliant to not smack the naga for the unneeded affection, due to the fact he knows the pain of being looked at and usually feared by commoners. What made him and her so feared? Was it because they were different? Was it something specific about them that made...so unappealing? He could never figure it out. The most he could hope for was that one day his race could be looked at and accepted into society. That's all he wanted. To not be feared by how he looked...He couldn't really make an excuse if people were afraid of him for what he's done and 'who' he is. As the naga let go, she quickly offered to be friends. Raven didn't see any harm in an acquaintance...He would be visiting this forest more often. He did love nature...something about this 'super-naturally' enchanted forest had him wondering what more it hid from him. What's the best way to discover more than to have a companion show him around? As well as make a friend and offer his company to sooth those wounds she's suffered from being so isolated.

Raven's changed so much since the beginning of his life...from suffering, to woe...to charm, amazement and awe that this ugly, yet beautiful world had shown him since he was conceived. The bright light he saw as he was freed from womb of his loving, nursing mother. But he has also seen the dark, gloomy shadows of death and desperation. This world has always been unfair. The strong are usually who survive to tell their tales and share continue their legacy. Despite all who he has...Raven's never found someone who could truly relate to him. Who understood his pain. Who could also share the same joys he did, who...he could grow fond of and find more purpose in his heart to protect. True...he always had his family back home, and his family of murderers, thieves and tricksters. But no one in specific...someone he has met in this vast land and has found that 'connection' to. Not yet...He didn't know how long. No friend, partner or lover he had such ties to. He wondered if he would always be by 'himself.' No one to turn to who he could trust and feel that connection and trust. As he looked up at the large, silver moon...Apart of him wondered. Did something live all the way out there, far above in the Heavens? Something that the Princesses never would have control over? Surely that would be true...they have only been here for a few thousand years. But what about before those thousands of years? Before they were here? Life was independent, or did we all have the free will without their omnipotent presence watching over us? He...could only be curious and question. With a sigh, he would sit up, eyes shot open--only to be confronted with a terrifying gaze. Sanguine red eyes, peering deep into his own...Raven felt...fear. Unlike what he's known. How did this...being sneak up on him so easily? His heart sank, his breath ceased as he gazed back. The dark, slate coat that laced all along her body, the silky, silver mane that draped over her beautiful face like a crescent moon encasing the glittering stars of the night that allured any being to admire their incandescence--and the menacing mark that lied upon her flank...that symbol drew his attention...Something washed over him like a wave of terror.
"...What are you doing out here?" She'd question.
"..." he couldn't even manage a response...Who WAS she? What was she?
"I asked a question...These woods are not for ponies like yourself." she'd inquire once again, demanding a response from the pony she knows she clearly managed to shock.
"I...I'm no simple pony. I do not fe...fear the dark. I embrace it. Besides...nature like this has always felt comfortable to wander out into the dead of darkness." he replied, his collective calmness aiding him in this rather terrifying situation. He was faced with a force he's never confronted before. He didn't need any sort of note, he could feel it. This...whoever she was or is--held some strange aura and power. It made his hairs stand up on end.
"I see...What is your name? I have not seen your face before. You're...quite odd-looking." she'd say bluntly. She wasn't one for sugar-coating her curiosity or statements.
Raven gulped, slowly backing up away from the mare. But she only stepped forward to keep the gap moderately close between the two. "...Raven Nightingale...Pleasure to meet you."
"Hmm...I suppose it is. My name is Xyphyth. What are you...wearing?"
"Erh...a hoodie. I just wear it to keep the sun outta my face and to keep me warm."
"Hm. I don't really see the need for clothes. But...you too, dislike the sun. Interesting."
"Is that some sort of problem?"
"No, not at all. Not with me at least. I have my own reasons for not appreciating the sun. Celestia damn her for such a horrid star existing everyday..."
"I...do agree. It's no fun staying cooped up in a home while ponies like you and I wait for the moon to rise."
She smiled. "Yes, true. But I can go out in the sun...I just don't prefer to as it's obviously not such a good idea. What have you of this night? Dost thou wish for company? You seem lonely."
Raven pondered for a few moments...Thankfully the fear in his heart soon dissipated. "...I'd appreciate such company. But before I encourage it...What are you?"
"A Vampire. But do not be afraid. I am not hungry...Not yet. I digress...We are alike. We prefer the night. And I do smell the stench of flesh and blood on your breath...Are we so different we cannot converse?" she grinned, standing on quite a few good points, her pointy, sharp sets of fangs stood out.
He chuckled, hiding his face. "Goodness, I apologize...I just had a meal myself."

The two nocturnal creatures soon began to converse--the new-found company between the two was rather revitalizing. As they spoke...Xyphyth got to learn more about this strange Equine. As did Raven learn more about this Vampiress. He soon learned that she lived out in these woods--isolated from others as she preferred peace and quiet and solitude. But she never discouraged it, seeing how she was spending some time with a stranger she snuck up on. The two spoke...their beliefs and thoughts on society was a rather branded topic to their liking at first. They both despised what the society they were force to 'live with' had become. They both believed it was filthy. They both believed if change happened, it would most likely just be worse, giving them more reason to hate those that filthy this land they had to share with such 'pathetic' souls. Tainting the world with selfish desire, bias, judgement, greed, war...But they didn't hate everyone just because they wanted to. Soon they understood...life as a child for both of them was beyond the definition of 'unfair'. Life treated them a bad hand, and they were both sadly forced to play it until they broke the chains of their oppression as children. They cursed what fate brought such travesty and unusually complex tribulations they were forced to endure that darkened their personalities. In turn, it blackened both of their souls. Their outlook on life...and how much they barely had to appreciate, as most of what they had been given was all lies, or just figments of what they believed to be beacons of light to help shed darkness on their hearts. But no...it was never too simple. It was never so easy. What would be those beacons were just more pain. More betrayal. More faith in humanity being broken down to nothing but ash.

They realized something. They...were rather similar. They both have suffered and endured. Both become spiteful of what life has done to both of them. They were both different souls, different bodies, different lives...but they both pulled down upon a hammer that judged their determination and judgement on life how they both would have to tackle it to make life more bearable for the both of them. Soon enough...Xy and Raven became more than simple acquaintances. Friends. As young as a blooming blossom. They surely wanted to see each other again. And they did. For many more days...some very good...some bad...some very bad. There was never any promise their friendship would be smooth, and be unable to chip and damage. But Raven wasn't going to let that happen. The faults he had with her...he battled to fix them. Day in and day out. He saw something...very, very special with this mare. Something he didn't want to lose over his own stupidity. Where his naiveness sprung, his gentle heart sprung out even further, each word speaking for forgiveness for his immaturity. Each time Xyphyth forgave him...he improved who he was. Learning from upsetting her, or being unable to help her at times left him...confused. Unable to figure out what to think as he learned that who he was...was vouched to be changed for the better. Especially for her. Xy was thankfully very encouraging. She did care for him. Their friendship was blissfully platonic. They grew affection for each other. Concern and worry...Each day Raven would make time to see his companion. The one who understood who he was the mood--to continue to bond and strengthen this unique relationship. Between mortal and the undead. Between two spirits who were reaped from different parts of the land, but who suffered and were bruised in similar ways. Between nightlings who looked out for one another...Raven was happy. He found someone he eventually trusted. Not just with his company. But with his heart. With the feelings that he lightly held onto. Xy was no different. She surely must have seen the good in him. Seen what he'd do for her. She didn't need protection, but...the thought he would go to the lengths touched her, he hoped.

As of late...the two could never be closer. A smile, hello, and a hug a day made the two comfortable to know they found each other that night. Happy with a bond they'd never want to break or wither.

"Thank you for being in my life, Xy..." Raven had one day said to her on a calm evening. "You've truly touched me...you've made me a better stallion. You're not as bad as you think you are if you can change one for the better like you have these past few months...Let's continue to have such wonders in our companionship...Shall we?"
Xy smiled...she look like she'd cry. Hearing that from her very dear friend moved her. "Of course...it will always last. I promise you, little pup."
"Gah...Call me Raven, dang it..." he flicked his ears, blushing shyly.
Xyphyth giggled...resting next to him as they both admired the bright, silver moon.

At the meddlesome and still young age of twenty-three, Raven one day decided...it was time to return home, after all these years. His parents will probably be either steamed, delighted, disappointed, or many other conflicting emotions. Walking amongst the cobbled streets of his youth...many things reminded him of all the things he had left behind to chase his rebellious dreams. His mother and father, who loved him unconditionally, his little sister, who idolized him and praised him for always being their to pay attention to her and keep her company, things she could rarely get from others due to her cursed condition...He couldn't wait to see them all again, especially his sister, Serenade. She was his world as a child...his parents always told him, "Lead by example, show her the right things to do, build her up, don't knock her down."...he knew all of that already, and he felt he did a good job so far as a big brother...maybe he should uphold that title again, she'd be rather old now...a teenage mare, still, he recalls her being around...actually, he can't remember. He had chuckles and warm feelings of his family as he looked at the estate he called home, belonging to a prominent Silver-Ringed family. They earned it. All of them. Those before his folks and so forth.

With a loud knock on the door, he sits there, bright-eyes and happy, wagging his tail fervently as he waits to see his much older folks within seconds.

The doors part, revealing none other than this Mother, Seriya.

Her face was one of utter shock and bliss, "I...Is that you, my little bat brat?"

"Hi, Ma'..." he smiled, his ears wilting...it always turned out this way. He felt so vulnerable, yet safe around his Mom.

"Ohhh, my little boy is home! We thought we'd never see you again!" said his Mother, having leaped forward and hugged him with all her strength, squeezing the life out of him.

"Hrrrk, Ma'...Uh...I...need air...t-to live..." he patted her back, as if tapping out of a wrestling hold.


Moments later, he's sitting down on the couch with his mother and father, them both clinging up to him for a little while as they showed their love for their son. He'd honestly thought they'd be way more pissy, having left without a single word. Maybe he came at the right time, or something of the sort. It was odd, however...where was Serenade? She was an odd one...she wasn't no normal bat-pony. She had this strange, unusual power...the ability to manipulate and toy with the fabrications of shadows. Literally, with only her thoughts, she'd be able to control to do her bidding however she saw fit, most often fashioning them into tendrils, little helpers that followed her like loyal pets. He loved his sister, no matter how bizarre it was...anyone else who saw her--feared her and ran for the hills. They just didn't understand...

Talking about where his wings and hooves had taking him--places afar, nearby, and where you wouldn't think he'd dare go alone, the stories twisted the expressions on his parents faces with awe, fear, shock and bewilderment...all these years, he was out doing that? Of course, he left out the more...darker bits of his past, to save them the troubles and heart ache.

"So, where's my sister, by the way...she's never this quiet when I'm home." he says with a smile...but that smile doesn't last too long when he sees the ghostly expressions his parents exchange amongst themselves.

"She..."

"Your sister..."

Raven's ears dropped, like weights hung from the tips. Please tell him she's anything but dead...lost would be better, he could still find her. However, no such luck was with him today...

A tear falls from Seriya's eye, looking away from her son. "Your sister died a month ago. She was killed in the woods, using the shortcut to come home after she skipped curfew."

Raven's face tightened up, tears also beginning to well in his eyes as he shakes his head. "Bullshit...you're lying...this is some sick joke you're playing on me."

"Why in Fiora's namesake would we ever say something like this to you if it wasn't true!?" his father, Roh, yelled at him in their defense.

"Stop it! It's not true!" he rejected it. It was a lie. It wasn't true.

"I'm so sorry, sweetie...All I know from what we were told was she had the bite wounds of direwolves and the poison of a manticore running through her veins...Even if she made it home, she...wouldn't have lasted very long..."

"I...I don't believe you...! You're...f-...f..."

"If you don't believe us, go to the Ambermeadow Cemetery...We won't stop you."

He quickly turned around, darting out the front doors as quickly as he could, his wings propelling him forward until he reaches the graveyard, coming across the burial grounds that fall under his family name. Looking among the tombstones, one by one, his grandfather, his grandmother, one by one...until the last one, looking as if it was just recently polished. The crickets were the only thing that that could be heard as he read his sister's name etched into the bronze plaque. No words escaped his lips...He shook in his spot, trembling with regret, remorse, guilt...blistering anger...he wanted revenge. He wanted...to kill anything in those woods. Everything was responsible for this...for his anger. It needed to be let out...his sister was ripped away from him due to this cruel land he abandoned years ago. He still had his sword...he still had the fuel of hatred in his heart. This was all unfair to him...to Serenade. She was innocent. Tears welled in his eyes as he held onto the cold tombstone, sobbing and wailing in his dismay.

"No! No, no, no! This is wrong! Why...!? Serenade, don't be dead, you can't be...! S-Sis'...Y-You can't leave your big brother...he promised you so many things...The carnival, the trip to the Isles...Stop fucking with me and come back, damn you, you stupid BRAT!..."
No matter how much he pleaded. Nothing would bring her back...she was gone. Those beasts took her. Those creatures...selfishly and maliciously ended the life of a young soul. She did no evil, not like what he had done. Why her?...HOW DARE THEY...disgusting, filthy creatures...punishment...punishment, punishment, punishment...They should suffer! Hatred burned in his eyes...he reached back at that moment, jaws latched onto the hilt of his blade.


With steel death gripped in his jaws, he took flight over to the woods he once thought to be his playground, but all it was now was a sandbox soon to be bathed in malice, mercy, and sweet blood of refreshing revenge. Landing with utter carelessness in the thick of the woods, he looked about, all thoughts completely gone as he went into Search & Destroy mode. It didn't matter what beast would challenge him...he was angry. He wanted to be even with these woods. They took a precious life from him, he will take everything from it if he must. Angry growls filled the air, his ears flicking toward every sound...the woods knew it had a trespasser, and the beasts would remove the threat for their precious home. A direwolf of intimidating size treads forward, no chances of it being alone...Fuck if he cares.

He returns an angry growl, one he has never had tremble in his throat ever before until this very moment. The wolf darts towards him, fangs bared as it makes a leap at him. Taking a step back, he whips his neck, lashing the blade horizontally, slicing the wolf through the chest cavity, it keeling over and tumbling in the dust and leaves, whimpering in pain. Its life lasted no longer when a clean cut is made through its neck, severing the artery as blood spurted freely. That was one...but one is not enough. It would take hundreds more to even things. Thankfully, where there is one, there are more...packs. The growls grow louder, the forest was angry at this intrusion. It took many, it will take another.

With those growls, more wolves step from the darkness his eyes could easily see through. He hisses violently, 'Come at me, you sunnava bitches...!' he thought to himself.
They all swarmed around him, eager to take a limb or chunk from the invader of the forest, but their numbers meant nothing and dwindled when the blade of a honed swordsman struck them down. One after another, direwolves clawed, pounced and bit at him, but as few left a mark upon his body, his blade brought personal justice, spilling blood and shredding skin and fur, parting flesh as he cut through the large pack. He swipes downward at one wolf he knocked over with his weight. It ended up rolling away, learning that this enemy had a tool meant for killing without hesitation. Without thinking, Raven had brought too much force behind his swing, lobbing the blade into the wood of an oak tree. He tugged and pulled, but it was stuck. Fine then...the beast is already out.
There was only a dozen more waiting to pay for their sins...one of them leaped forth, yet Raven stepped off to the side, letting the wolf miss narrowly before striking its midsection and knocking it down onto its side. He leaps onto it, jaws parted before he bit down on the wolf's neck, sinking his fangs in deep, holding on before he pulled and jerked with all his strength, breaking its neck and rips the tender flesh away, blood spurting onto his face. He was already drenched in blood, more would make him feel...warm...satisfied.
More came. He wanted more. His anger wouldn't be extinguished so easily. Raven kicked the hilt of his blade with all his might, ripping it from the thick oak, grasping it in his blood soaked jaws before charging at the crowd of ravenous beasts. They too, prepared for mayhem...

Blood soaked the grass around him, stained the wood of the trees, darkened the shade of his hoodie by a dozen pigments, his coat painted in his own blood and theirs. Direwolves, verminous, murdering beasts littered the stretch of where the horror began to where he stood now, feasting on the largest corpse, drinking the fresh blood as he reeked of death...his thirst was quenched...but his sadness...his sorrow would not vanish. He thought this...this would drown out the pain. Not even the gashes, lacerations and the minor concussion he had was enough to dull his anguish and loss. He looked up at the spectacles of night light that pierced through the blood-speckled canopy. Apart of him believed that murder was in his blood, like it was tonight...he had seen a few of his own guild members die during a few missions...trips to the Pale never guarantee a safe trip home. Each life he couldn't save bottled up in him, holding in his emotions, training himself to become cold...to become like stone. Things die, and that's life as it is. No...That's not how it should ever be. Not for him, not for his family of thieves, not for his real family...not for his own family in the future, should he ever have one. All this time he had lied to himself, all this time, he tried to deny he had a heart. His sister's death punished him severely...as if his patron Goddess took out her disappointment in the most severe of ways. She knew very well how much she meant to him. He was her world...and he broke that by chasing his own dreams. He was supposed to protect her. His own flesh and blood was more than wealth and infamy...How could he be so stupid. He deserves to be punished...but not like this. He'd trade places with her, so she could try to live a normal life some day...she never got that chance. It was taken away...it was his fault. He always walked her home so she never ended up being late, things...like that were all his fault...He wanted to take his sword and douse it in blood again. His own...for being such a fool. But that would be worse...it'd be selfish. His mother and father would have to be burdened with the thoughts and memories of their two children; no longer apart of this world. He had to keep living for her at least. But he had this feeling of dread...enervation, exhaustion, no more was he tenacious.

Finding his way home, he walked inside his abode with a sluggish advance to the stairs, but his mother saw him...drenched in putrid sanguine nectar. Her need to scream and whimper were silenced with her son's deathly sorrowful gaze. Whatever he had done...in the end, he was not proud of himself. She wanted to say something, but something about this atmosphere...it made her feel as if saying anything was the worst thing she could do. But where had he gone...Why was he soaked in blood? He was no killer...it was never in him to hurt even a butterfly.

He already disappeared into his sister's room, locking the door behind him. He shed his filthy hoodie, tossing it into the corner before he crawled into her bed, curling up as he felt his exhaustion take over him. His sadness weighed so heavily on his body...he didn't want to move. Not now, not ever. His crippling mourning for his only related sibling that he loved dearly...it drew him to stay locked in that room for an entire year. Of course, he was brought what he needed to live...but his appetite was frail.

The saying "You don't know what you've lost until it's gone." was amplified on his body and soul...He wanted this to be a dream.