Dusty

Mockingbird, Devyn "Dusty" Dustan is an awakened Sage and junior-class Legionnaire with the rank of Brigadier General. 
While it is believed that he hails from the famed Dustan clan of Karlseflock, he is really from the Kingdom of Sanguinem within the Shadow Region of Purgatory. The name Devyn Dustan is a false identity created to protect the true nature of who he really is. In actuality, he is the Monarch's Sin of Pride, Vali Valiant - a lost descendent of the enigmatic Hod Line and the prophesized messianic Avenger of the Witch of Envy's cult. 
He currently operates as an Instructor Legionnaire for the Black Sheep of the Continental Academy and is one of the three founders and senior member of the S-TWO team Raptor. His stature as a Legionnaire is only solidified by his graduation as the #5 Ranked student within the Continental Academy's Millennium Class - the strongest known graduating class of the Legion.
Prior to his operations with Raptor and as an instructor Legionnaire, Devyn was intrenched in the sinister S-ZERO branch of the Legion, having strong ties to the Ministry of Darkness, Sentry and Maluhia. He was one of Silas Reign's four horseman, operating as a vengeful figure of dark justice known as Dark Talon who possessed the rank of Master Sergeant and the moniker of War. 
==History & Backstory==
===Familial History===
Devyn Dustan, originally known as Vali Valiant, was born into a complex lineage as a descendant of the Valiant's Hod Clan and the enigmatic Bin Family. The story begins with Attai Valiant, a Hod Clan descendant who held the Valiant Throne, surrounded by her Shadow Cabinet. She held the Valiant Throne and assembled a powerful group known as her Shadow Cabinet, which included prominent figures like Chasianna Vanewys, Detalydd Goldensunder, Sentia Valiant, Arthur Valiant, and Dae-Hyun Bin.
The Valiant's Hod Clan shared a cosmic connection with the Bin family, leading to a strict prohibition on romantic connections between members of both families. Nonetheless, Attai Valiant and Dae-Hyun Bin embarked on a forbidden and passionate relationship. The Goddess of Chaos, Chasianna Vanewys, a High Elf and daughter of Loki, foresaw a dire prophecy concerning the union of Attai and Dae-Hyun. She predicted that their union would herald the emergence of "the Avenger," setting in motion a series of ominous events.
The forbidden romance between Attai and Dae-Hyun Bin, despite cosmic prohibitions, led to the birth of Valia Valiant. Valia, the first royal black-haired Valiant, displayed immense and destructive powers during her awakening. Her uncontrollable abilities caused significant bloodshed at the Valiant court. Sentia Valiant, a representative of the Knights Valiant, strongly disapproved of Attai and Dae-Hyun's relationship. She conspired with the Dwarves in an attempt to eliminate Valia. An attack on Valia's life ultimately resulted in the courageous death of her father, Dae-Hyun Bin, who valiantly protected his daughter.
Sentia manipulated Attai into believing that the Elves, in alliance with the Dwarves, were responsible for the attack on Valia. This deceit drove Attai to madness and initiated the Trinity Wars—a devastating conflict involving Humans, Elves, and Dwarves.
Amidst the chaos, Valia Valiant did not meet her supposed demise. Instead, Chasianna ensured her survival by guiding her through a Splinter Gate, a portal of immense power created by Valia herself. Valia found refuge within the enigmatic and shadowy realms of the Shadow Region. Valia's presence within the Shadow Region brought her into contact with Matilda and the mysterious Cult of the Monarch. She was venerated by the cult as a prophesized figure destined to bring forth "the Avenger," an individual believed to have the power to reshape the world.
Valia chose to continue her bloodline within the Shadow Region. Her descendant, Vasilisa Valiant, eventually gave birth to the Avenger, who emerged as Vali Valiant.
===Early Life===
====A Community====
Dusty's early life was marked by the grim and oppressive rule of the Kingdom of Sanguinem within the Shadow Region. The Count of Greed, Dracula, and his vampire army had ruthlessly subjugated humanity and eradicated anything associated with the Cult of the Monarch. Sanguinem, the kingdom built by Dracula and his followers, was a place of despair and terror. Human beings were oppressed and enslaved under the vampire regime. Their existence was marred by fear and suffering.
However, Vasilisa Valiant, Dusty's mother, managed to escape the clutches of vampire subjugation. She was part of a traveling group that clung to their faith in the Cult of the Monarch, even in the face of adversity. Vasilisa held a significant role within the group as one of its priestesses.
The leader of this tenacious group was a man named Blaine Dagda, himself a descendant of the former Royal Dagda Family. Blaine had two children, Arwin and Aristea, who grew up amidst this struggle for freedom and the anticipation of the prophesized Avenger. The traveling group was a diverse assembly, consisting of various species who had all rejected the dominion of the vampires and patiently awaited the arrival of the Avenger—the one foretold to break the chains of oppression.
The day finally arrived when Vasilisa gave birth to a baby boy, Vali Valiant. His eyes glowed with a striking red hue, a sign of the innate power and Chaos that ran through his veins. He was the first boy born from a descendant of Valia Valiant, the embodiment of the cult's long-awaited prophecy. His birth marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for freedom in the Shadow Region.
Dusty's early life was a relatively quiet one, marked by the nomadic existence of his traveling community. Within this tight-knit group, he forged close relationships with other children, particularly with Arwin, whom he considered an elder brother, and Aristea, on whom he had a crush.
Dusty shared a profound connection with his mother, Vasilisa, who was vigilant about not burdening her son with excessive expectations. Their relationship was special, grounded in love and understanding. One of the things that bound them together was their shared passion for music. Dusty learned the art of singing from his mother, and she passed on her extensive repertoire of songs to him. These melodies provided solace and joy in the face of the hardships they encountered as travelers.
Tragedy struck when Dusty was just eight years old. Griswold Seskel, a powerful vampire Baron of Sanguinem, discovered their peaceful community and unleashed a brutal assault, leaving a trail of death and destruction. This onslaught claimed the life of Blaine, Dusty's surrogate father figure, and many others.
In a desperate plea for mercy, Vasilisa revealed their Valiant lineage, asserting that Dusty was the prophesized Avenger foretold to bring about change. The weight of such an expectation, especially when coming from his own mother, was overwhelming for the young boy. Despite the immense pressure, Dusty found the courage to face this extraordinary destiny head-on. Impressed by his resilience and determination, Baron Griswold presented Dusty with a choice. He would spare the lives of the remaining members of the community if Dusty agreed to participate in his sinister "sport." Dusty, undaunted by the grim circumstances, willingly accepted the challenge, and Arwin bravely volunteered to join him.
The rest of the community was subjected to the rule of Sanguinem. However, Vasilisa's fate was far more sinister. She was taken by Griswold as a gift to Count Dracula himself. That heart-wrenching moment marked the last time Dusty saw his beloved mother, setting him on a path filled with uncertainty and peril.
====The Seskel Estate====
Dusty and Arwin were forcibly relocated to the Seksel Estate, an ominous and isolated expanse within Sanguinem. This eerie territory was enveloped by menacing, shadowy forests that bore an uncanny, eldritch atmosphere.
It was at this estate that Dusty crossed paths with Kylian, Griswold's eldest son, and Riah. Kylian embodied the stereotypical image of a cruel and aristocratic vampire noble, driven by an insatiable thirst for human blood. Dusty, along with the other "participants," was subjected to Kylian's merciless and callous treatment.
The Seksel Estate's appalling "sport" was both distressing and gruesome. Essentially, it involved an extreme form of selective breeding, where children from various locations in the Shadow Region were trained, pitted against one another, and unleashed to be hunted for amusement. The aim of this savage practice was to enhance their combat abilities and make them more intriguing prey.
When the time for the hunts arrived, the children would be pursued through the sinister forests, with survival being their sole objective. Dusty, along with Arwin, became adept at honing their skills during these perilous pursuits. This intense and relentless training inadvertently led to the development of their powers of awakening.
However, not all of the children were as fortunate. Those who were captured during these pursuits met a gruesome fate, becoming prey for the ravenous vampires. Many of them were eventually transformed into Thralls, a state akin to being zombified, caused by the infection transmitted through vampire bites.
With years of experience in these grueling hunts, Dusty harbored ambitions of escape and attempted to seize any opportunity that presented itself. However, each endeavor ended in disappointment as he was consistently captured by the pursuing vampires.
Yet, fate took a different turn during one eventful day. Dusty managed to elude his pursuers, running farther than ever before. During this daring escape, he encountered a mysterious woman who would change the course of his life forever. In her calm and reassuring tone, she introduced herself as Alexa Dustan, leaving Dusty with the unforgettable words, "My name's Alexa Dustan. But Dusty is fine." These words marked the beginning of a profound and life-altering connection that would redefine Dusty's future.
====Alexa "Dusty" Dustan====
Alexa's first encounter with Dusty was a whirlwind of chaos. When they initially met, Dusty was so exhausted that he nearly collapsed. However, his determination and survival instincts kept him going.
Gradually, Dusty regained consciousness, finding himself in a location far removed from the horrific Seskel Estate. His escape had been a success, but he couldn't escape the overwhelming anxiety that gnawed at him. He was deeply troubled by the fact that he had left Arwin and the other children behind.
Desperate to return and rescue the remaining kids, Dusty tried to persuade Alexa to go back with him. He believed that they couldn't abandon their companions. However, Alexa staunchly refused, explaining that returning to the Seskel Estate would be a suicidal endeavor for both of them.
Alexa revealed her true identity as a Legionnaire, a powerful figure from the Valiant Sphere dedicated to protecting others. She briefly mentioned her affiliation with Damien Valiant's team, Moltres, though it was evident that she was keeping certain details hidden. She then pressed Dusty for more information about himself.
In response, Dusty introduced himself as Vali Valiant, a revelation that deeply unsettled Alexa. She quickly pieced together the implications of his name, connecting it to Attia, the Trinity War, and the prophecy of the Avenger—the one who would ultimately bring ruin to the Valiant Sphere. A profound internal conflict raged within her, as she contemplated whether to fulfill her original mission and eliminate Dusty.
Dusty's harrowing account of what transpired on the Seskel Estate and the destruction of his home elicited doubt within Alexa. Her sense of duty began to waver as she grappled with the true purpose of her mission in the Shadow Region. Over time, Alexa and Dusty spent more time together, and their bond grew stronger. Dusty became increasingly acquainted with the Valiant Sphere and the stark contrast it offered—a land without vampires and one characterized by peace. Alexa, in turn, became more attached to Dusty, her initial resolve to eliminate him fading.
Recognizing the unique opportunity to save Dusty, Alexa conceived a cunning plan. She realized that she couldn't rescue everyone left behind on the Seskel Estate, but perhaps she could save him. She proposed that Dusty accompany her to the Valiant Sphere, where he could spend two years at the Continental Academy, training and returning stronger.
Their discussions evolved into spirited debates, with Dusty questioning why he couldn't be trained there. Alexa remained steadfast in her suggestion, insisting that he accompany her. Dusty's innate curiosity began to tip the scales, swaying him toward the unknown adventure that awaited.
Despite Dusty's unwavering attachment to his name, Alexa insisted that he keep it a closely guarded secret. Dusty, still retaining the pride he found in the name that saved his mother's life, initially refused. However, he ultimately agreed to her terms. In a compromise, Alexa christened him "Birdy," a moniker that would allow him to maintain a degree of anonymity.
With their arrangement settled, Alexa clandestinely brought Dusty into the Valiant Sphere. He would go on to become a part of the inaugural class of the Continental Academy, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
===Continental Academy===
At the age of 13, Dusty, going by the nickname "Birdy," entered the Continental Academy. He became a member of Class Dustan, hailing from the House Black Sheep. His classmates included Keiron Payne and Sierra Rojas, and their instructor was none other than Alexa Dustan.
Dusty's demeanor was that of a brooding, quick-tempered individual, always ready to resort to violence. However, he exhibited genuine dedication to his studies, especially in combat training and history, though the latter subject held a particular fascination for him.
During his time at the Continental Academy, Dusty encountered a few notable figures. Alexa's older brother, Jorah Dustan, left a dubious impression on Dusty, who viewed him as rather secretive. On the other hand, Dusty held Aaron Stone, Alexa's lover and the founder of the Continental Academy and known as "the Diamond," in high regard. He admired Aaron and often trained alongside him.
Despite Anders jokingly arranging a betrothal between Dusty and Rey after Dusty lost in a fight against her, Dusty didn't find too many friends or kindred spirits among his fellow students. He regarded Keiron as somewhat of an oddity and didn't pay much attention to Sierra's struggles. One of the few students Dusty interacted with was Dario Isidoro Orlando, known as Dio, a member of Class Bolton of the Red Dragon. Dio would later become one of Dusty's future teammates. Additionally, Dusty formed a friendship with Jeon Bin, a member of Class Benson of the White Wolves. He found Jeon's connection to Damian Valiant and the cosmic ties surrounding it intriguing, although Jeon never disclosed more details.
Another significant student in Dusty's eyes was Eustass Valiant. As Dusty delved deeper into the history of the Valiant family and the roots of the Valiant Empire, he began to harbor a profound resentment toward Eustass.
Dusty's initial approach at the Continental Academy was marked by hatred, reflecting in his combat style. He fought with reckless aggression, telegraphing his every move due to his overwhelming killing intent. Alexa dedicated substantial effort to help him shed this violent demeanor, as it made him predictable and compromised his effectiveness. Another concern that emerged was Dusty's ability to harness "Chaos," an ancient and untapped power connected to the Shadow Monarch. Alexa forbade Dusty from using it due to the danger it posed, but an incident during a match against Eustass resulted in Dusty accidentally using this forbidden power and scarring Eustass' eye.
Over time, Dusty gradually softened and formed closer bonds with Keiron and Sierra, particularly as the weight of his past trauma resurfaced. The time eventually came for Dusty to graduate, and he did so as the fifth-ranked graduate in what would later be known as the Millennium Class—the most powerful graduating class the Continental Academy would ever witness.
However, graduation meant Alexa had to fulfill her part of the deal she'd made with Dusty, and the resurfacing of his traumatic memories and emotions from his time in Sanguinem couldn't be avoided any longer. Dusty had grown even stronger and more determined, propelled by the lingering trauma of his past.
===Return to Sanguinem===
====The Truth of Alexa====
Alexa, heartbroken at Dusty's insistence on returning to the Shadow Region, made desperate attempts to dissuade him. She pleaded with him, stating it was too soon and they needed more time to prepare. Despite her pleas, Dusty remained resolute in his decision.
With Alexa begrudgingly complying with her part of the promise, she took Dusty back to the Great Shadow Gate. Their goal was to strategize and plan their approach for taking down the Seskel Estate.
To Dusty's surprise, Jeon was present at the gate. The fact that Jeon, who had been expelled from the Continental Academy for misconduct and the murder of another student, was in one of the Legion's most critical areas of control puzzled Dusty. It didn't take long for Dusty to put two and two together when he spotted Damien Valiant of Team Moltres, who shared a cosmic connection with Jeon.
In private conversation, Dusty and Jeon discussed what Damien was involved in, and Dusty gradually began to realize that Alexa's initial intentions for visiting the Shadow Region over two years ago were concealed from him. His anger and frustration mounted, pushing him to confront Alexa. With his emotions spiraling out of control and his "Chaos" power beginning to emerge, Dusty forced Alexa to reveal the truth.
Alexa disclosed that Damien had been exploiting his power as a Valiant and using his influence within the Legion for personal gain. She admitted to being a double agent within the Legion, operating as part of a group known as Sentry, established by the Knight Valiants. Her primary objective was to keep a close watch on Damien and gather information on his activities. However, this also meant she had to be directly involved in his endeavors.
The most disheartening revelation was that Damien was involved in enslaving individuals in the Valiant Sphere, transporting them to Purgatory, and selling them to the Seskel Estate and the Sanguinem Kingdom as livestock in exchange for a valuable resource called Entropite.
But above all, Alexa's most agonizing mission was to locate and eliminate the prophesied Avenger, as well as any other descendants of Valia Valiant who might be residing in the Shadow Region. Dusty was shattered by this revelation.
Although Alexa tried to explain that Dusty had abandoned his connection to this fate, it was too late for him to digest. Overcome with grief and sadness, he withdrew to a secluded room within the Great Shadow Gate of the Valiant Sphere, awaiting the dawn when he would finally return to the Shadow Region to confront Baron Griswold.
====Birth of the Stranger====
Upon waking, Dusty found himself in Damien Valiant's captivity. He had been drugged during the night and surreptitiously taken through the Shadow Gate, which allowed them to enter the Shadow Region from Purgatory. Damien, accompanied by a small squad of Legionnaires and Jeon, had become Dusty's captors, transporting him under the cover of the moon.
Dusty couldn't help but curse Jeon, branding him as a traitor. He thought that being expelled from the Continental Academy was probably a warning sign. He noticed the sadness in Jeon's eyes and sensed that he didn't truly want to be involved in this situation.
Damien seemed to confirm Dusty's suspicions as he absolved Jeon of blame and stated that Dusty was simply unlucky. Damien recognized Dusty from his time at the academy, vaguely recalling seeing him once during a visit to the Seskel Estate. However, he hadn't given it much thought at the time. The real revelation had come when Dusty returned to the Great Shadow Gate, despite Alexa abandoning her post. Damien pieced together the connection, remembering that Griswold had offered a substantial reward to anyone who could return his "lost prize," and he was determined to cash in that prize with Dusty, equivalent to his weight in Entropite.
Panicking, Dusty realized that even though he had grown stronger, he wasn't nearly powerful enough to take on Griswold or Kylian. Desperate, he began recounting his story, trying to appeal to Damien and Jeon for help. Damien, however, dismissed his pleas, as he had been providing livestock to Kylian for years.
While Dusty's pleas for assistance fell on deaf ears with Damien, they struck a chord with Jeon. Having experienced slavery and being abandoned by his father during his early years, Jeon felt a deep empathy for Dusty's predicament. He suddenly attacked Damien, managing to free Dusty. Together, they formed an alliance and faced off against Damien and the other Legionnaires.
The battle was heavily one-sided in favor of Damien, who possessed significantly more power. However, his pleasure in brutalizing Dusty and Jeon would ultimately lead to his downfall. Jeon's latent Samkida ability was awakened during the battle, causing Damien Valiant to ceased to exist, leaving only "the Stranger" in his place.
====The Last Hunt====
In the aftermath of the battle with Damian Valiant, Dusty's memories were a chaotic jumble. He had lost sight of Jeon and "the Stranger" and couldn't recall what had happened to them. All he had were the instructions given by Jeon on how to navigate his way to the Seskel Estate, which was now his sole destination.
Dusty spent several days journeying alone through the eldritch forests of the Shadow Region, fending off various indigenous adversaries with his honed Legionnaire training. Despite these challenges, his use of Chaos alerted the denizens of the Seskel Estate to his presence within the Shadow Region.
Now within the kingdom of Sanguinem, Dusty heard a familiar sound—the bells of the Seskel Estate's hunt. Instead of evading them, Dusty decided to confront them directly. The first Vampire to find him was none other than Kylian Seskel, who exhibited excitement at seeing Dusty again. He taunted Dusty with the promise of tearing him limb from limb, and the two engaged in a fierce battle. However, Dusty soon discovered he was no match for Kylian, who toyed with him and teased him with riddles about Arwin.
Just as things seemed dire, Alexa swooped in using her magnum opus, "Brave Bird," to inflict severe damage upon Kylian, grievously wounding him to the extent that his healing factor couldn't save him. Alexa and Dusty shared a heartfelt reunion, embracing one another and temporarily making amends. While Dusty still harboured hurt, he understood the depth of Alexa's care for him.
Their respite was short-lived, as Baron Griswold arrived on the scene. Alexa, having used Brave Bird, suffered from the drawbacks of the move and realized that she wouldn't be a match for Griswold in her weakened state. Griswold, seeing the potential for joy in this situation, granted them both the opportunity to fight for their lives. With his battalion of Vampires, he initiated the greatest hunt the Seskel Estate had ever witnessed.
As they were hunted relentlessly for days, Dusty came to realize that his initial approach, driven by rage, wouldn't suffice for defeating the Vampires. He understood that this was a battle he couldn't face alone and would require the entire Legion to overcome. This newfound sense of purpose ignited his determination, but Alexa's condition had deteriorated significantly, causing her to rely heavily on Dusty during their travels.
They eventually came within sight of the Great Shadow Gate, which they desperately sought as a sanctuary from the pursuing Vampires. Griswold, who had been toying with them all along, decided to end the game. He had allowed them to get so close only to drive them into despair. In a heart-wrenching moment, Griswold killed Alexa Dustan in front of Dusty, plunging him into the depths of despair.
In her final moments, Alexa profusely apologized to Dusty for her actions as an agent of Sentry and sought forgiveness from the world, her family, and her gods. She called Dusty her last chance at redemption and expressed the hope that he would become someone the Legion could rely on. Lost in grief and the whirlpool of her words, Dusty was taunted by Count Griswold, who mocked him, stating he wasn't strong enough to be a worthy meal. Suddenly, Dusty's heart stopped, and the Monarch's Sin of Pride overcame him. The power of Chaos transformed him into an avatar of the Shadow Monarch, Baldr, and he unleashed the wrath of his Shadow Dominion upon Seskel.
====The Edge of the World====
In his transformed state as the avatar of Chaos, Dusty fully embodied the ominous prophecy made by Matilda.
The chilling words came to life as he unleashed a reign of destruction upon Griswold's battalion, wielding Destruction's Spear. Chaos enveloped his every step as he slaughtered through the Vampires.
Griswold became the centre of Dusty's attention, and the two engaged in a furious battle that sent shockwaves echoing across the Shadow Region. Their ferocious clash created thunders in the sky, and it seemed as if the very world trembled.
Driven to the Great Shadow Gate, the battle between Dusty and Griswold raged on. The Legionnaires stationed at the Great Shadow Gate attempted to intervene, but they too fell victim to the overwhelming power of Dusty's Shadow Dominion. The ensuing chaos and violence marked the end of their lives.
As the battle continued, Griswold grew increasingly panicked. Dusty's power seemed unstoppable, and it was only a matter of time before he had the Baron in his grasp. Dusty's overwhelming Shadow Dominion extended across the entirety of the Great Shadow Gate.
In a climactic moment, time itself seemed to freeze, and the power of entropy was unleashed with apocalyptic force. Reality tore asunder, and a catastrophic cross over between Purgation and the Valiant Sphere occurred within Dusty's Shadow Dominion. Everything was engulfed by this entropic fury, leading to complete annihilation.
The cataclysmic result of the battle left an indelible mark on the Valiant Sphere. Where the Shadow Gate had once stood on the Valiant side was now a vast abyss of darkness, stretching beyond the limits of vision. This abyss became known as the "Edge of the World," one of the Valiant Wonders of the World, a testament to the immense power of Dusty's unleashed Chaos and the fateful battle that had taken place there.
===The Ministry of Darkness===
Dusty remained comatose for several months, a period during which he was ensnared in a torment of ethereal nightmares. These haunting dreams were a mélange of vivid and traumatic memories: the heart-wrenching loss of Alexa, the chilling image of his mother, and eerie visions of an ancient, eldritch race that had once roamed the Shadow Region. A recurring element in these nightmares was the ominous image of the "Te-Eri" Volcano, one of the Wonders of the World. This natural wonder featured a nightmarish crying visage, symbolizing the anguish and despair that had become deeply intertwined with Dusty's experiences in the Shadow Region.
Eventually, Dusty's comatose state came to an end, and he awoke in an unfamiliar place. He soon realized he was in the Ministry of Darkness, and his awakening was met by a former team member of Alexa named Silas Reigns, who was a member of Sentry, the secret organization to which Alexa had belonged. Silas Reigns had sinister intentions, seeking to manipulate Dusty into joining their ranks. He used Dusty's dreams of Te-Eri as a psychological lever, promising him the sweet allure of vengeance against all those who had wronged him, including the Valiant family, whose actions had resulted in his people being cast into the torment of the Shadow Region.
In his treacherous persuasion, Silas presented Dusty with a tantalizing vision: that of becoming a figure of "Dark Justice" who could bring about positive change in the world and within the Legion, much like Alexa had hoped for. To seal the deal, Silas also offered Dusty a significant gift – Alexa's Devil Fruit, the Tori Tori no Mi: Model Staraptor.
Overwhelmed by grief, loss, and a sense of hopelessness, Dusty eventually succumbed to Silas Reigns' manipulative promises and accepted the path of "Dark Justice." With a heavy heart and a longing for retribution, he consumed Alexa's Devil Fruit and embarked on a perilous journey that would be fraught with consequences and challenges yet to come.
Dusty's tenure within the Ministry of Darkness was marked by extensive training and the acquisition of formidable skills. Under their tutelage, he mastered the Rokushiki martial art, becoming a true master of this dark fighting style. His competence quickly earned him a prominent position within the organization, and he was dispatched on various missions as an operative of Sentry. Among his many achievements, Dusty rose to the rank of Master Sergeant.
During his time with the Ministry of Darkness, Dusty also learned to harness his chaotic powers, refining them into a devastating technique known as "Dark Talon." This technique bore his name, and Dusty himself became synonymous with its power. As he continued to ascend through the ranks, he eventually became one of Silas Reigns' four horsemen, assuming the mantle of "War."
One of Dusty's notable missions involved leading an assassination attempt on Robert Lite, the Magnate of the Lite Agency. However, this mission ended in failure as Dusty was soundly defeated by Robert's twin brother, the formidable hand-to-hand combatant known as the Natural Born Killer, Patrick Lite.
====The Songbird Rebellion====
Perhaps one of Dusty's most infamous operations during his time with Sentry was the Songbird Rebellion. Maluhia, once a peaceful and prosperous land, had fallen under the oppressive rule of ancient eldritch beings that had emerged from a Splinter Gate. These beings, known as the Ministry of Darkness, held dominion over Maluhia through dark rituals and blood sacrifices to the volcano, Te-Eri, which they revered as their deity.
The rebellion, led by Isaia Fainu'u, known as the Songbird, lasted for years, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. Sentry, sensing their power waning, called upon their four horsemen to quell the uprising. As War, Dusty played a pivotal role in crushing the rebellion, causing significant destruction and loss of life. He employed his fearsome technique, "Dark Talon," to decimate the forces of the Songbird. Ultimately, in a grueling battle, Dusty defeated Isaia and extinguished the last flicker of hope for Maluhia's salvation.
Dusty's involvement in these atrocities would forever mark his name and the legacy of "Dark Talon" in the history of Maluhia. However, his redemption and a chance to save Maluhia from a new threat would be a chapter of his story yet to be written.
====The Last Thorne====
Following his brutal acts during the Songbird Rebellion in Maluhia, Dusty experienced a profound internal crisis that gnawed at the core of his identity. Haunting ethereal visions of Alexa, his mother, and the ghost of Baron Griswold tormented him at every turn. Consumed by emptiness, he turned to alcohol and sleep aids as crutches to endure the long and lonely days and nights.
Dusty's next mission took him to an island off the coast of Valour, where he uncovered Ragnar Bolton's sinister involvement in funding research into potent magical runes. Unbeknownst to Dusty, Ragnar had exploited the Thorne Family, using them in his pursuit of dark research to regain his power. Among the victims was a young boy named Aleister, upon whom the Thorne Family had pinned their hopes of liberation and revenge against the Valiant lineage.
This mission plunged Dusty into a moral dilemma as he was ordered to eliminate Aleister and eradicate the remnants of the Thorne Family. Seeing the parallels between Aleister's situation and his own past, Dusty identified with the young boy. After using "Dark Talon" to eliminate the Thorne Family, he abruptly abandoned his mission, making a daring and impulsive decision that nearly cost him his life.
In an act of desperation or perhaps a subconscious desire for self-redemption, Dusty plunged himself into the ocean to save Aleister from the lethal effects of his chaotic power. Unexpectedly, it was Aleister who turned the tables and saved Dusty, pulling him from the sea.
Dusty's initial reaction was one of anger and resentment towards Aleister, berating the young boy for his recklessness. He almost left Aleister behind on a desolate beach. However, he ultimately changed his mind and provided Aleister with much-needed medicine and sustenance. In a vulnerable moment, Dusty revealed his true name, Vali Valiant, to Aleister, who responded with youthful irreverence, deeming the name "stupid."
===Mr. Dustan===
Dusty and Aleister found themselves on the run from Sentry, facing numerous battles and relentless pursuit. One of the most harrowing encounters occurred when Dusty nearly lost his life in a battle against Patrizio di Pietro, a powerful operative of Sentry who held the mantle of Death.
Their perilous journey eventually led them to an unexpected savior, Jorah Dustan, Alexa's older brother and the new House Chancellor of the Continental's Black Sheep. Although Jorah harbored resentment towards Dusty for the death of his sister, he pitied him and saw an opportunity to manipulate Dusty for his own purposes, much like Silas had done.
Dusty was taken to Karlsflocke, the home of the Dustan family, where he was adopted into Jorah's household. In this new environment, Dusty became acquainted with Laura Dustan, another of Alexa's siblings, and her daughter Amelia. He found himself enveloped by the warmth and care of this new family and was finally able to visit Alexa's grave.
Dusty grappled with his emotions, unable to face his deceased teacher and the guilt that weighed on him. After a heartfelt conversation with Jorah and recalling Alexa's last words, where she referred to Dusty as her chance at redemption, Dusty made a solemn vow over her grave. He pledged to forsake violence and work to change the Legion in the way that Alexa had hoped.
Following this vow, Dusty decided to adopt the name "Dusty" and formally reintegrated into the Legion. He took on the role of an instructor Legionnaire at the Continental Academy, where he founded his own team within S-Two called Raptor, alongside Dio and Aquila Invictus. As an instructor, Dusty played a crucial role in mentoring the 11th generation of the Continental, including guiding Charlie du Fleur, who would go on to become the sole number 1 graduate of the Black Sheep.
==Powers and Abilities==
*Monster Level Physiology
**Almighty Level Speed
*Life Energy Manipulation
===Natural Flux Affinity===
Dusty's journey towards becoming a Wind Sage was a testament to his dedication and harmonious connection with the natural world. With the guidance of his mentor Alexa, he unearthed a latent Wind Affinity within himself, a fundamental connection to the element of wind.
To reach the coveted status of a Wind Sage, Dusty embarked on a profound spiritual and physical transformation. This transformative process hinged on his deep reverence for the intricate ecosystems that make up the Earth, a profound appreciation for the intricate balance between life and death, and a keen understanding of the cyclical rhythms that governed the world.
By forging a profound connection with the element of Wind itself, Dusty underwent a symbiosis that allowed him to commune with the wind on a deeply intimate level. Through this bond, he gained a profound Natural Flux Affinity, uniting his Life Energy with the pulsating energies of the natural world. This union was an intricate process that involved tapping into the harmonious pulse of the world's ecosystems. Dusty learned to manipulate Aura in ways that were unique and awe-inspiring. His Life Energy blended seamlessly with the Natural Flux, enabling him to tap into the very essence of wind itself.
The consequences of Dusty's newfound status as a Wind Sage were nothing short of spectacular. The most striking transformation manifested in his extraordinary speed. With a mere thought and a flicker of his aura, Dusty could vanish from view with the swiftness of a passing gust of wind. He could traverse vast distances instantaneously, becoming a veritable blur of motion.
The key to Dusty's incredible speed lay in his unshakable connection with the element of wind. His movements transcended the limitations of mere physical velocity. Rather, he was intertwined with the very essence of the wind, enabling him to tap into the intricate currents of the natural world. As a result, he could harness the wind's energy and guidance, achieving speeds that defied the conventional laws of nature.
The source of Dusty's speed was his harmonious resonance with the pulse of the Earth itself. By becoming one with the rhythms and cycles of the world, he could tap into the incredible swiftness of wind and move effortlessly with its guidance. His body and spirit had become intertwined with the forces of nature, transforming him into a living embodiment of wind and speed. Dusty's unmatched celerity wasn't just a result of wind manipulation; it was a testament to his profound connection with the natural world and his mastery of Natural Flux Affinity.
===Chaos===
Chaos is the primordial force that emerged from the interaction between the Black Diamond and the Spirit of All Things. It is one of whats referred to as the "Second Powers" the other being Aether. As the Monarch's Sin of Pride and the fabled Avenger, Dusty like Valia Valiant who came before him has demonstrated the ability to access Chaos as a force that exists outside of the Flow of All Things (Flux). 
It represents the concept of change itself, introducing a fundamental shift in the cosmic order. This interaction, although unintentional, had profound consequences, altering the nature of the Spirit of All Things and giving birth to the essence of Chaos.
With the advent of Chaos came the concept of change, an integral part of the cosmic fabric. This change introduced the capacity for desire into the world. Creatures now possessed the ability to envision something different from the existing order, birthing desire and ambition. The coexistence of both chaos and order paved the way for the emergence of desire and the pursuit of alternate possibilities.
In this new world, everything that possessed Spirit also gained the capacity for evil. The concept of change and the existence of alternative possibilities meant that beings could deviate from established norms. This deviation, coupled with the inherent duality of existence, allowed for the emergence of malevolence. Chaos, as the primordial force of change, opened the door to the potential for evil actions and intentions.
Chaos, in its essence, embodies the concept of change and the potential for disruption. It has become synonymous with the root of evil in the cosmos, as it allows for actions and intentions that deviate from established order and virtue. The coexistence of chaos and order sets the stage for both creation and destruction, with Chaos serving as the catalyst for deviations from the norm.
====Dark Talon====
Dark Talon is a cataclysmic manifestation of Chaos, channeled through Dusty's sheer will and mastery over the cosmic force. This extraordinary ability takes the form of a colossal, razor-sharp, and crimson-hued maelstrom of darkness that envelops Dusty's foot, transforming him into a formidable harbinger of entropy.
When Dark Talon is unleashed, it becomes an unparalleled cutting strike of apocalyptic proportions. The sheer scale of its destructive power is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As it cleaves through its target, it severs reality itself, creating jagged ruptures in the very fabric of space. Its cutting prowess is such that even the most formidable defenses crumble before it, leaving no remnants in its wake.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Dark Talon is its ability to seemingly pause time itself when it strikes. Within the event horizon of this devastating ability, everything comes to a standstill. Time grinds to a halt as Dusty's power consumes all in its path.
The aftermath of Dark Talon is equally chilling. Anything touched by its malevolent force is subjected to the all-consuming vortex of darkness and entropy. Nothing escapes its grasp, as it obliterates matter at a subatomic level, leaving no trace of its existence. The remnants of its target are devoured and disintegrated within the inky abyss, a testament to the insurmountable power of Chaos.
Such is the ferocity of Dark Talon that it has been known to leave a lasting impact on the environment. In one instance, it encompassed the entire horizon and lowered the sea level, an unequivocal testament to its destructive prowess. Dusty's ability to command Dark Talon exemplifies his mastery over Chaos, making him a force to be reckoned with on a cosmic scale.
====Shadow Dominion====
The Shadow Dominion is a power derived from the very essence of Chaos, intimately intertwined with the will of Baldr, the enigmatic Shadow Monarch. This awe-inspiring ability is a manifestation of Dusty's unique connection with Chaos, drawing inspiration from the Fey Dominion but with a profound twist.
The heart of this formidable power lies in one of the "7 Mantras," specifically the Crown Mantra, which is linked to the phrase "I Understand." Dusty's comprehension of his role in the world, as a harbinger of both life and death, allows him to channel the Crown Mantra to trigger the Shadow Dominion. The incantation "I kill and I give life" serves as the key to unlock this incredible ability, embodying the delicate balance Dusty must strike to bring about prosperity and defy the ominous prophecy of Matilda.
When Dusty utters these words, an intricate crimson aura radiates from his heart, creating an impermeable dome referred to as the Shadow Domain. This dome is no mere physical construct; it's a metaphysical realm where time itself comes to a grinding halt, and Dusty assumes unchallenged control over Chaos in its entirety.
Within the Shadow Domain, Dusty's potential reaches its zenith. He wields Chaos with unmatched precision, unlocking its true potential as a force of creation and destruction. The possibilities are virtually limitless, as the very fabric of reality bows to his command. He can manifest feats that seemingly rival the most potent of magics, displaying a degree of reality warping that defies conventional explanation.
However, the Shadow Dominion comes at a cost—a steep one. Each time Dusty employs this ability, his heart ceases to beat, and he can feel the ethereal hands of Baldr clutching mercilessly at it. The process is both excruciating and perilous, pushing Dusty to the brink of death. Yet, Dusty believes that in his eventual demise, he will ascend to become Baldr himself, further motivating him to use the ability judiciously and sparingly.
The limitations Dusty has imposed upon himself serve as a testament to his unwavering determination and moral code. Notably, he restricts the use of the Shadow Dominion to "Give life," but the interpretation of this concept remains fluid. Dusty's discernment in its application ensures that he harnesses the Shadow Dominion only in situations where it aligns with his unyielding desire for balance and the betterment of the world.
===Tori Tori no Mi, Model: Staraptor===
The Tori Tori no Mi, Model: Staraptor is a Mythical Zoan-type Devil Fruit that allows its user to transform into a Staraptor hybrid and a full Staraptor at will. It formerly belonged to Alexavier Dusten before his early demise. Dusty is thought to have hunted down the fruit during his 5 year absence, a fitting addition to his alias Dark Talon.
Dusty demonstrates the ability to not only perform a hybrid transformation but also a partial shift in many capacities, he has shown the ability to turn his arms into large wings as well as transforming his feet and hands into Talon like limbs. When using the fruit in any capacity, the carnivorous nature of the Staraptor grants him immense physical strength, dwarfing superhuman feats at certain points, the talons he can makes can easily damage steel as well as many other reinforced materials without the additional cutting prowess of some of his other techniques. When transformed in his hybrid form the speeds at which he fly at are said to create cracks in the air and cause extreme bursts of wind that blow away his surrounding area during the duration of his flight, it essentially acts as a protective aura.
The fruit also boosts his Close Combat fighting prowess as well as his Agility.
Category:Characters
Category:Male
Category:Awakened
Category:Sage
Category:The Legion Association
Category:Junior Legionnaire
Category:Brigadier General
Category:Instructor Legionnaire
Category:House Black Sheep
Category:Class Dustan
Category:Raptor
Category:S-Two