red-ropes-of-avalon

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

All I Wanted Was to Be Loved For Myself

Chapter 1- Angel of Music

Phantom of the Opera! Nanami x Christine!Reader

Author Notes: Nanami and Reader are around the same age, not the weird age gap in the actual Phantom of the Opera. 

The auction in the abandoned opera house was solemn. The few bids caused little noise, while the most common noise was coughs from the settled dust. “Lot 665 then ladies and gentlemen.” A collector’s music box, it piqued Gojo’s interest at that moment. “A paper mache music box, in the shape of a barrel organ. Found in the catacombs of the opera house. In perfect working order.” The announcer had wound up the box letting it play its eerily beautiful song. “Shall we begin at 20?” The room had not a single bid, just a small cough. “Fine then fifteen?” The announcer said with an exaggerated sigh. Gojo raised his number for the bid. While 2 others bid against him, Gojo eventually won. “A fine piece Vicomte Gojo. Thank you, sir.” As Gojo looked over the music box his heart was filled with longing, a faint memory of the girl who had told him all about that very music box. “Lot 666- the broken chandelier. Now some of you may recall the strange affairs with the supposed ‘Phantom of the Opera’ the ghost of this very opera house. It was never known if this monster truly existed but this is the chandelier supposedly involved in that famous disaster. We have worked hard to restore it and add in new wiring for electrical lights. Perhaps we can shed some light and frighten out those ghosts from so many years ago.”

You were stood on the side with your fellow dancers dressed in flowy outfits for this scene of Hannibal. When Mei Mei hit the highest note of Rome, you all flowed out dancing in synch and singing beautifully. Shoko was on one side of you, a new girl on the other side. The scene was cut abruptly when Naoya the male lead sang Rome incorrectly, to which Gakujani the conductor stopped to yell. “No, no, no! You must enunciate Rome.” As Naoya and Gakujani argued Shoko simply rolled her eyes, rehearsal was long enough without Naoya being unable to pronounce Rome correctly. Mei Mei was the most annoyed and having him hold her hand for his higher notes, her face spoke entirely to her displeasure with Naoya. However, you had no time to watch her face as the ballet portion followed immediately and you were not getting yelled at by Yaga for being distracted. Following the big ballet, the pinnacle of the act was reached as the ensemble behind moved forward to begin singing. Of course, another fluke with Naoya occurred as the sword got stuck. You swore you heard him mumble something about cheap props and by the look on Shoko’s face, she did too. “Maybe if we didn’t have to pay you and Mei Mei an arm and a leg each we could have better props,” Shoko snarked.

“We are running that again from the top.” Gajukanji shooed everyone from their spots. You crossed the stage amongst the dancers though not without catching a nasty side-eye from Mei Mei simply from crossing her path. Still, it was better than passing Naoya who would push you and then delight in mocking you for falling.

“As you can see gentlemen our rehearsals for this season’s production, Hannibal are well underway,” Ijichi spoke as he led 2 men through the theater and to the stage. Trying to gather the cast’s attention was always hard for Ijichi. Yaga instead banged his foot, gathering the attention and causing silence for Ijichi. “I’m sure all of you have heard rumors that I’m retiring. I can put the rumors to rest today, I am in fact retiring.” Ijichi was always so timid despite being the owner of the opera house. “But these are the new owners, meet Monsieur Sukuna, and Monsieur Uraume.” The two men side by side couldn’t be more different. One looked like a bull of a man, and the other looked delicate enough he could be one of the dancers with you. “Monsieurs this is our prima donna Mei Mei. We’ve had the pleasure of having her as our leading soprano for 12 seasons now.” Mei Mei seemed to preen under the attention.

“I've heard you have an amazing voice, Miss Mei Mei. I know there is a wonderful aria in this production. Would you care to sing for us?”

“I don’t do any excess work for free Monsieurs.”

Sukuna barked a laugh motioning for Uraume to give the women some money to incentivize her.

“Ah, now Gakuganji would you do me the honors.”

“Is 2 bars sufficient Miss Mei Mei?” To which the woman gave a dismissive handwave. As the woman was singing she was clearly engaging the 2, strutting her stuff and proving just why she was the leading soprano for so long. As she reached the end, the backdrops for the other scenes fell from the rafters. It cut Mei Mei short, obviously startling the woman. Among the cast whispers of the phantom’s doing were spreading.

“Where is that stagehand? Haruta why would you drop the backdrops?’ Ijichi was clearly nervous, more than he usually was.

“I didn’t, I wasn’t even up there sir. If there was someone it would have to be a ghost.” The blonde’s response just spurred more phantom murmurings.

“It’s an accident. Things happen they probably weren’t tied well enough,” Sukuna dismissed.

“These aren’t just accidents! This has been my life for the last 3 years! I should not have to worry about my life whenever I rehearse. No amount of money makes this worth enduring! I am leaving, either sort that out or I will be finding a new contract.” Following her little tirade Mei Mei stormed out. Naoya sneered at the 2 men before storming out behind the woman.

“Sirs a note for you was found in the rafters,” Yaga handed the men an envelope with an ornate wax seal.

Dear New Owners of My Opera House,

I welcome you to my opera. I am sure Monsieur Ijichi has established with you the rules of how this opera house works I shall give you them in writing. You are to leave Box 7 empty for me and my salary is to be paid on time. I will not tolerate it being late. I hope the best for you in my opera house and look forward to our collaboration.

Best,

Opera Ghost

“A salary?” Sukuna almost wanted to laugh, a phantom demanded a salary.

“Ijichi used to pay him 20,000 a month, though with the Vicomte sponsoring you.”

“We can return to the matter of a ghost’s salary later. Who is the understudy for Mei Mei?” Uraume tried to soothe the situation by diverting.

“There is no understudy for Mei Mei.” Gakuganji balked at the insinuation.

Seeing no volunteers Shoko dragged you forward, “she can do it. She’s been taking lessons.”

“This little dancer girl? Tell me your name girl.” Sukuna intimidated you and Shoko wouldn’t let you disappear back into the cast.

“Y/N L/N.”

“L/N, tell me are you perhaps related to the famous cellist of the same name?” The way Sukuna’s voice was tinted with intrigue did you little comfort.

“Yes sir, he was my father.”

“Very well then, sing, show us if you are good enough.”

Very timidly you began to sing Think of Me, and while it seemed Uraume still held his doubts Sukuna was sold, despite your nervousness. Meeting Yaga’s eyes with his firm glare you began to open up more. Gaining a false confidence simply to avoid Yaga yelling at you. It seemed that was what sold Uraume on your ability, that or Sukuna’s insistence.

The performance was sold out and while you were nervous you were also excited. All eyes would be on you for the first time ever. Having the heavier costume on was an odd feeling, the weight of the skirt and how restricted you were compared to the ballet costumes. Wringing your hands deeply and taking a deep breath, you exited your dressing room to wait in the wings for your cue. By the end the packed opera house was applauding your every move and every note.

After bowing you exited offstage where the ballerinas quickly encircled you giving you praise. They were gossiping though just as quick after, something about the new owners with another man in their box. “You did well Y/N. I’m sure he will be impressed,” Yaga said placing a hand on your shoulder. You guess you had zoned out listening to them chatter and Yaga had pushed through the group of girls. “As for the rest of you, that was a pitiful performance. We must rehearse now, your feet were too flat and not enough bend in your knees. Y/N go get your costume off there’s nothing for you to fix.”

Seeing as you didn’t need to rehearse with them anymore, which was odd to say the least, you began the walk back to the dressing room you were given. In the hall an eerily familiar voice echoed, “bravo, bravo, bravissimo.” You felt yourself go pale at the words walking faster to the room.

Sitting yourself down in the room you let out a sigh. Seconds later Shoko enters the door, obviously having ditched rehearsal. “You were amazing out there. Where did you learn to sing like that?” Shoko quickly sat herself beside you and took your hands in hers. “Oh dear your hands are so cold, and you look pale.”

“I’m fine really. I was taught by a mysterious Angel of Music.”

“Who’s the Angel of Music though?”

“My dad he said when he passed he would send to me an Angel of Music, so that I will always know I am loved.”

“That’s weird but whatever you say. Don’t worry I’ll get all the gossip from the ballerinas and we can keep making fun of the rest of the cast during rehearsals.” Shoko was rambling again, she probably missed you in the wings.

“So this is where you snuck off to Shoko. You are still a dancer and therefore you still need to rehearse.” Yaga stormed through, obviously annoyed that Shoko had disappeared. Shoko shuffled off unhappy to have to part without talking to her best friend more. “As for you, I have a letter.” Yaga handed you a pristine letter swiftly before disappearing after Shoko to watch the ballerinas.

#nanami x reader #kento x reader #nanami kento x reader #jjk x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

Devil Take The Hindmost

True Form!Sukuna x Goddess of Humans!Reader Synopsis: A deal between a goddess and a curse: are human emotions truly worth feeling? Content Warning: None really, some angst and strong language in some spots I guess

The village was burning, the crops destroyed, and in the middle stood the King of Curses himself. Screams echoed in the burning remains, those that were fortunate had escaped but most of the village was already dead, the unfortunate were suffering watching their loved ones die before them as they tried to pull themselves from the burning rubble. A small child was grasping for her mom’s hand trapped under a burning building. It was truly pathetic watching maggots like that their tears were such a boring sight. 

Raising a single arm to grab the pathetic child by her throat, he never registered the quick strike. In the blink of an eye, the arm was cut off being held by a mysterious woman. In the midst of the burning village and collapsing buildings, her divine glow could easily have been missed. “How dare you interrupt me? I care not for gods and especially not ones who would defend these maggots.” 

“Oh my, oh my. So quick to dismiss me. You truly think yourself a god,” the katana you had severed the arm with raised in defiance. You tossed the arm that you had severed, the blood had already stained the white gloves you wore. Sukuna rushed you bare-handed, he had the upper hand as far as physical strength, and testing your defenses before resorting to his jujutsu to formulate a plan was a priority. After all, it wasn’t every day he could fight a god, perhaps you could even give him a challenge. You moved gracefully weaving through with the grace of a ballerina, moving further and further from the child. As he threw punch after punch, your mind was churning you needed to move with precision, cut off all arms nearly simultaneously, deploy your cursed technique, grab the kid, and go. 

Taking the opportunity with you in your own mind, Sukuna took that moment as an opening. He sent a single cleave slash at you, not enough to decimate you but to determine if your cursed technique bolstered your defenses. ‘Shit there goes that plan,’ you mentally cursed. In a single moment, your cursed technique activated, a glowing circle forming at your back with crystal shards floating along the edge of it. Crystals gently flowed around your feet and formed along the edge of your blade. One of the shards took the brunt of Sukuna’s attack knocking you back and throwing you into the rubble of a building. He was too strong you weren’t winning this, his cursed energy was on par with the gods and his technique was far more useful in combat than yours. Pushing yourself up from the crumpling home, you threw yourself through the fire, running for the child. Reaching the crying child you grabbed them picked them up and wrapped yourself around them to protect them from any attack Sukuna might send towards you. Deactivating your technique and suppressing all your cursed energy you disappeared into the rubble, slipping away amongst the smoke. 

“Damn, I thought that would be more fun. Pretty shitty for a god.”

Years passed with the young child, learning her name to be Yae, she served as your faithful attendant, though you two tended to bounce from place to place. The common feature was simply being surrounded by humans. You adored them, being the goddess of humans. You had no issue exorcising lower-level curses that caused them problems. Every emotion they felt was so beautiful in your eyes, so free to feel and express it all. However, they were also fragile and so fleeting. Yae had adored your technique, in the crystals were the most beautiful of human emotional experiences- love, sadness, joy, and all other forms of beautiful overflowing humanity. You never expected yourself to feel their emotions. Yae was still a human too, though you were remiss to remember that. She stayed by your side for but 2 years before she was taken from you. What had started as a simple sickness had quickly turned worse until she passed in your arms, calling you her mom in her final moments. Lifting your hand to your face you felt tears, and thus your first human experience occurred. Sadness ripping through your heart. 

You brought her back to the remains of her village to lay her to rest. Standing alone in the quiet felt crushing, no happy little Yae by your side. Nothing around you mattered anymore in this all-consuming grief. “Never thought I’d see you here again you pathetic goddess.” The cold voice brought you out of your stupor. Tear streaks were still visible on your face but your defenses were raised.

“I guess it never really mattered, the girl…she died.” Your glow seemed to die out, no longer a sure and confident goddess, but a grief-stricken one. 

“What are you even the goddess of? Seems a little pathetic to be crying over one feeble little human.”

“I am the goddess of humans…I…I love them so dearly but I suppose this was the first I got to interact with them. To experience what they feel, human emotions they’re rather foreign but they feel correct.”

“That’s why you are so pathetic. Emotions, they mean nothing. The only thing that matters is pleasure and satisfaction.” 

“All emotions they mean something. To feel them is to live, I never knew how hollow I was before Yae. I would never give them up again, for I would never feel alive again.”

“How about this little goddess, we make a little deal. If you over the course of a year get me to believe emotions are worthwhile, I will only kill sorcerers. But if you lose, you have to watch as I slaughter a village- no defiance or saving any.”

“Deal.”

11 months spent by someone’s side changes your views sometimes, though Sukuna would be loathe to admit it. The displays of emotions never inherently meant anything to him- a baby’s first steps were happy only when the baby fell. A death was nothing to mourn in his eyes. What did bring emotions to him were moments with you, exchanging stories from long ago. 

“Ryoumen” your voice snapped him out of his thoughts. “The stars are beautiful tonight, come outside with me.” While giving no verbal agreement he rose from his desk where he had various books mainly poems you had gifted him. The stars glittered in the sky above you as he sat on the wooden boards overlooking the garden. You twirled gently in the flowers smiling freely. Your eyes were fixed up at the stars beauty, and Sukuna couldn’t help but notice the beauty you had. 

Spinning around you gave him the most radiant smile, and he could swear his heart skipped a beat. You held out a gloved hand to him, the pure white fabric sparkling in the stars, beckoning the King of Curses to join you under the stars. He didn’t have the heart to deny you in that moment, and that’s how he knew you won. He wouldn’t admit it out loud, never would he say the mighty Ryoumen Sukuna, the King of Curse felt human emotions and valued them. Towering over you, he gently held your outstretched hand and watched you sway and twirl to your tuneless music. He’d carve out the sun, the moon, and stars just to keep you by his side. By the time the two of you were going inside to sleep the sun was beginning to rise.

But humans are feeble, and fall prey to emotions easily. Sorcerers were marching to attempt to exorcise Sukuna once more. Simply by being associated, you were in the line of fire when they attacked. They were your precious humans, you understood their fear of the power Sukuna wielded. As your body was pierced through and you crumpled, you gently smiled at them. You could tell it had unsettled them but as you lay bleeding on the flowers you had danced in the night before you could never bring yourself to think ill of your precious humans. You tried to apply pressure and stop the bleeding but all it did was stain your white gloves red. 

Sukuna had destroyed the sorcerers in less than a thought, but the damage was done. He found your still body in the garden, and his blood ran cold. He felt for a pulse and found nothing, the blood below you should have told it all, you were gone from this world. He gently lifted your lifeless body, holding your hands with one pair of his. He refused to acknowledge the tears streaming down his face, he had a job to do. When he arrived at the burned village you first met in, he went searching for the exact spot, the spot where you had buried Yae and the spot where your deal was once made. “You foolish goddess, but I suppose a deal is a deal. No innocents for this year, after all those sorcerers made their decision to attack you so devil take the hindmost.” The stars were twinkling on your still body, face closed in a peaceful expression as he set you in the ground. He’d take the sight of you with your stars to the end of his days. 

Being reincarnated into Yuuji’s body was not Sukuna’s first choice of vessel. The kid had weird tendencies, this 2 am trip to 7-11 for a slushie was becoming pretty normal to the King of Curses. Yuuji was walking fast, his surroundings were a blur. There was nobody else out until suddenly Yuuji had barreled into someone, and the girl had managed to stay upright but what she had been carrying was all over the ground. “I’m so sorry I should of been watching where I was going!” The girl apologized while Yuuji knelt down to pick up her stuff- various gardening tools. Sukuna’s eyes widened in his innate domain, he knew that voice. Creating an eye on Yuuji’s cheek, he saw the familiar gloved hand reaching out. Sukuna swore that if there was fate and destiny, the two of you were perhaps meant to find each other in every life.

#sukuna x reader #ryomen sukuna x reader #jjk x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

Sukuna is the kinda guy who demands you get the proper amount of respect and will fight for you if it's not given. Absolutely nobody gets away with taking anything that's yours and claiming it as their own- because what's yours is also his.

Modern AU Blurb:

You were always rather unfortunate with lab partners when it was up to luck of the draw. Being a woman in STEM was never labeled as easy, and while your beloved boyfriend was as helpful as possible he couldn't take that burden away. Being a business major meant he knew all the excel tips and tricks, so he helped when he could. While you had never foreseen dating your roommate's older brother, it was an interesting dynamic. Anything you accomplished brought him pride, for your achievements were his too.

Finals week in your room was hectic- your direct roommate Nobara had her interior design papers everywhere. Some pinned on the wall, others strewed all over the floor. Your own Biochem notes sprawled all over a calendar whiteboard. Megumi and Yuji's room was a mess on only one side- Megumi's sources for an English paper written neatly on the whiteboard with checks next to the ones he has cited from, while Yuji's side generally always looked like a bomb had been dropped but now with added notes sprawled around. You were sprawled on the floor writing out an assignment for your Biochem lecture while Nobara sat at her desk above you.

Your email pinged- an email from your lab partner. You inwardly groaned not wanting Nobara to pick up on your distress. He had been emailing you all day for the final project that you'd be presenting tomorrow. The problem though was you had found out he had been using your excel file for the whole semester. All of the hours trying to bullshit excel into working, and all of Sukuna's help had been being used by him. Normally this wouldn't bother you but he was using it and claiming it to be his own work- taking all of the credit for your hard work. You flipped your phone down and turned your notifications off trying to focus on the paper you had to read.

You didn't even realize how many hours you had been working on this paper until Yuji was standing in the doorway. "Yo Y/N are you ok?" Looking up at Yuji you tilted your head slightly, confused why he was asking. "Sukuna's been texting you and you haven't responded. He's calling me and yelling at me." Your eyes widened, how long had you been laying here struggling to read this paper on PEPCK. "He's already on his way over here now. Just I guess be ready to explain why you weren't answering." You nodded quietly and began racking your brain for an excuse. You could say you were doing work, but that usually never warranted you turning on Do Not Disturb. If you told him about the actual problem he could blow it into something more than it's worth. You didn't even notice Yuji had disappeared from the door and Nobara stepped out.

Before your mind could stop running in frantic circles, Sukuna was now hulking in your doorframe. "Hey twerp, why weren't you answering me? Almost gave me a goddamned heart attack."

"Aw you missed talking to me did you?" You teased hoping to distract him.

"No dodging the question brat. You never turn your notifications off, so spill." Sukuna's eyes felt like they were piercing into your soul. You couldn't hide anything from him. His perception rivaled his intelligence even.

"I have a final presentation tomorrow for my Biochem lab. I have to do it with my lab partner and he's just been overwhelming me with emails. And...and I just found out he's been taking all the calculations I've been doing in the excel. Y'know the ones I need your help with sometimes because they take hours trying to get excel to work..." you trailed off eyes down.

"What are you going to do about it then twerp? Because if I don't get a good answer I'm taking that laptop and I'm sending an email to the professor for you."

"I was going to talk to her in person before we have to present. I'm just...y'know nervous." Sukuna sighed lowering himself to sit beside you on the floor, pulling you into him.

"If the professor doesn't handle it, I'll make sure someone else does. Now let me see this presentation. I'm assuming you made it since your one of the few competent individuals I know so this better be good." You smiled softly, switching tabs to the presentation you had formatted. The other group members had all their data in, and your heart dropped to your stomach when you found screenshots of your excel sheet placed in. Sukuna just ruffled your hair distracting you from the panic filling your heart. "At least you know the data is right, don't work yourself up over this or else you'll mess up your part. Don't forget what's yours is mine so you gotta make me proud."

---------

I wrote this while upset because I found out my lab partner has been using my excel sheet all semester and taking credit for all my work hahah. Love being a woman in STEM.

#ryomen sukuna x reader #sukuna x reader #jjk x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

The room was painted a gentle sky blue, small clouds painted to dot the walls. You had to admit you were proud of the paint job. You had questioned what Satoru himself was doing while painting. Looking at the man hanging on the ladder, there was no paint, just glow-in-the-dark stars with sticky backs. “Whatcha doing?” You questioned.

“Hanging stars,” he said, peeling the backing and placing the star on the ceiling. His head leaned down, sunglasses lowering on the bridge of his nose, and those piercing blue eyes of his locked on yours. “I want them to know I love them enough to hang the stars in the sky for them. So that when they look at the stars they remember that love.” A soft smile passed between you two before Satoru returned his attention to scattering the sicky-backed stars on the ceiling. 

#jjk fluff #jjk x reader #gojo x reader #satoru gojo x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

Burnt Out

Featuring: The Stellaron Hunters

Notes: Gender neutral reader, Silver Wolf is intended as more platonic and just kinda a best friend.

#honkai star rail #kafka x reader #hsr kafka #hsr x reader #hsr blade #blade x reader #silver wolf #hsr silver wolf #hsr kafka x reader #hsr blade x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 10: So I Will

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

The capital was still for once, all citizens were gathered around the normally bustling merchant street. Every man, woman, and child were waiting with batted breaths, the center cleared with rows of knights mostly northern and southern knights kept a clear path. The sound of large wing beats signaled the beginning of the ceremony. The two dragons landed atop opposing buildings, clinging with their large claws and hooked wings. The soft footsteps emerging were more important though, drawing a hushed gasp.

You wore a beautiful gown, the one made by the girls. The body was a rich ruby red, white fur lined the bottom of the flared dress, the chain that was normally on your outfit was added across your chest, the dragon head keeping it mounted. The sleeves covered your arms flaring into backend endings, almost as if the fabric itself had been burned into the color. Precious gems were sewn into the sleeves. One shoulder was covered by a fur cloak, the pelt was black and the cloak had a black fabric lining both sides. The other was occupied by the proud dragon head surrounded with fire-like patterns. 

It had taken your breath away, the dedication your precious girls had put into making this. They weren’t professionals, but they learned in order to make this specifically for you. Now it was taking away the breaths of the citizens, beauty and power emanated from you and the dress served to enhance it. As you passed each knight, they placed the tip of their sword to the ground and knelt before you creating a ripple effect. The procession felt long, the slow measured steps on the worn-in stone, you never needed to move this slowly and carefully. You normally moved with efficiency, never wasting time on delicate appearances. You weren’t delicate, so you never thought to move as such. The moment you reached the front of the bell tower you turned to face out to the people. 

It was odd having a ceremony without Setanta by your side. Natalie was taking care of him, and you knew he was going to be well. An old Northern lord was droning on about honor and dignity, and the weight of the crown. You knew the speech well, he had prepared it for as long as he had known you. “Now and forever, may she reign, honorable Queen (L/N), Empress of Dragons, Storm Rider, the Unbowed and Unbroken, the Justice Seeker, and the Retribution.” The old man was presented with a crown, your crown. It was a fine thing, sleek black metal, with a dragon-like piece in the center. The sides flared out to form wings that wrapped around your head. A stone for each noble house, their banner color, was inlaid into the crown. “Your Grace, you may address your people now,” the old lord said giving a gentle squeeze to your shoulder. 

“Many of you do not know me, really know me. I serve the people first and foremost, not some undignified lords. Strength and title do not equal correctness. For too long, the lords and kings have used their names and title to oppress you, the people they are meant to serve. I aim to do better and be better than those who proceeded me, my family included. In their endless search for power, they have done harm to you, I seek retribution. I will use my strength, honor, and morals to do what is best for you all. Even if it means tearing down the whole established system, and rebuilding it brick by brick myself. This system will no longer work to protect unjust lords and silence the small people, but instead will work with the lords and people in tandem to create my new world, my better world!” It started small but an overwhelming cheer came from the crowd. Your people, they were truly your people. 

“Your Grace, I know you have a lot on your plate finding a full council that will appease you. However, this is also imperative.”

“If it’s about the dragons, once more I will state- Moonfyre may fly wherever she wishes. I will never shackle her into staying here. She has caused no harm and as such she is free to fly wherever she may wish.”

“No, your Grace, this is about you. We have put this off for as long as we could, but we believe you need to begin finding a king or queen consort.”

“Excuse me, why exactly do I need to find a king consort?”

“For the continuation of the bloodline, and additionally to secure an image. If we continue to have you alone, it will make you seem more like the Mad Queen they feared. Having a partner may grant a slightly kinder image. Most of these citizens don’t know what you did, that you are a kind and gentle individual, that you yourself took care of the sick. Give them a show of that kindness, make them understand you truly are good and righteous.” 

“I will consider it, please leave for now. I have much to think about and a bit of peace would do me well,” you dismissed Ramsey, your most trusted messenger. The man nodded and exited swiftly. You stood from the infuriating desk and made your way to the castle bell tower. In the absence of Moonfyre, you had taken to having to rid Onraxes. He liked to rest on the bell tower, it was high enough that he could feel the wind without having to fly. 

“Going for a flight my Queen?” Leon’s slightly amused voice greeted you at the base of the bell tower. He wrapped his arm around your waist and you chuckled lightly. You gave a quick peck to his lips, before trying to break away.

“Yes Ser Leon, I’m going for a flight. You could always join me, I’m just clearing out my head.” You turned to ascend the tower and he grabbed your hand quickly. 

“I wouldn’t dare pass up the opportunity to go for a flight with you, (Y/N).”

“Then stop being such a sap Leon, and get to climbing.” The whole climb up the winding tower was full of playful jabs, allowing your brain to clear from the mess of the kingdom. A council needed to be built, a Queen’s Guard had to be sworn in, and now you were being pressured to marry. You never wanted to marry a lord or lady, hell some days you felt you never even wanted to marry. Onraxes lifted his head parallel to the window hearing your ascent. Looking out the window, his neck was right where it needed to be. You grasped one of his spines and settled onto the neck. Leon settled right behind you, holding to your waist tightly. Not as a display of affection, but more so to not fall off. Even in the months you had been queen and he had gone flying with you, he never felt truly secure on your dragons. It was more they tolerated his presence, like a fly on a dog, rather than how they loved you. Onraxes twisted his head and neck pointing out towards the bay, he detached his wings from the tower and pushed off gently with his legs. With a few wing beats, you were securely off and flying. 

When Onraxes had evened himself out flying gently over the bay, his talons splashing the water slightly but leaving it otherwise undisturbed you let out a long sigh.

“Care to tell me what’s wrong darling?”

 “Everything is still a mess. I can’t swear in a Queen’s Guard until Setanta is back on his feet, and given how Natalie said it was infected because of that bastard’s knife, we really don’t know when that will be. I haven’t even figured out the council yet, there are so many Lords I wish to help advise me but I don’t know how to form this council without apparent favoritism towards the North.” His arms came to rub your back letting you relax more into his chest. “And now most recently, they want me to marry.”

His face fell slightly at that but you couldn’t tell. “What’s so wrong with marrying?”

“I don’t want to marry some lord or lady just to get an old man to support me. I just I don’t want to marry someone I don’t love…” your voice trailed off. His mind started turning rapidly. 

“I have an idea then. They never said you had to marry a lord or lady. Especially if you want to show the citizens that nobility doesn’t make them better. We…we could get married. If you want, I come from a common family. It could look good,” Leon didn’t want to feel desperate. He loved you with his whole heart, and he could understand the fear. He found these flights to be the highlight of his days, and every smile, every laugh they just made him fall further in love.

“Leon…I love you. I love you so damn much. That’s brilliant, not for the image reason. Leon, I swore my heart to you when you swore your hand to me. Please let me marry you, become my king consort. Let us be joined, now and forever.” You had spun around to face him. Onraxes was gliding gently enough that it wasn’t hard. He didn’t answer you verbally. Instead, he pulled you into a deep kiss. 

You had returned with Leon to your ancestral home. It was unfortunate you didn’t have an older family member to officiate it, but you knew all the traditions. Standing on the scorched grounds, barefoot allowing the ashes to coat your feet, you exchanged your vows. Onraxes had watched the whole thing, and now the sealing was to occur. At your signal, he let out a small flame, to which you placed a wide scale he had shed. The scale absorbed the fire, and you prepared the black cloth. Placing the scale into your palm, you draped the cloth over it. You grasped Leon’s palm in a tight grasp. Using your other hand you bound the two together with the black cloth, tying it at the end. You remained until the heat from the scale had emanated out, leaving the scale cool to the touch. You untied it and raised your hand the scale pattern wasn’t present on yours, but his hand had the scale pattern lightly burned into it, the burns would fade quickly, the scale not containing enough heat to leave scars. You pulled him close to kiss him, finalizing the ceremony. Onraxes raised his head as wing beats surrounded the area, before laying it back down. You didn’t notice the other dragon approaching until a gentle white nose pressed into your side. “Moonfyre!” You wrapped your arms around her snout holding her tightly. 

The white dragon lowered herself down, signaling for you two to get on. The flight wasn’t long, lasting only minutes as she entered a cave on the mountainside, Onraxes followed behind. What you saw astounded you, she had made a nest and inside laid three pristine eggs. Each a combination of colors, glittering in the dark cave. 

“The reign of the dragons had finally returned, and I believe it’s here for good this time.”

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[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 9: But I Am

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

Ada pushed you through the doors to the throne room before slamming the doors closed behind her. Blood was splayed over the floor and throne, coming from King Graham’s slashed throat. A middle-aged man with light brown hair and a beard was holding Leon. An old man with armor and glasses held a young girl with blonde hair. She was crying violently. “How good of you to join us Mad Queen, allow me to introduce us. I am Lord Simmons the Master of Whispers, and my companion is Lord Commander Wilson. We have served since your father’s time,” the brunette man spoke slowly eyes eating you up. You leveled a glare at the man, he seemed extremely confident. “We are glad to welcome back the rightful queen, however, we must say the company you keep is extremely poor. Ser Kennedy here, well he thought to end the war it would be best to slit the King’s throat on his own. I wouldn’t trust him, your grace.” 

“How interesting, because if I recall he said he’d be in the catacombs. Helping the innocents hide, so my army wouldn’t accidentally cause harm. How would he end up in the throne room alone with the king so he could slash his throat?” You paused looking uninterested, as your gaze flicked to the sigil windows. How tacky you thought. “Especially if he was marked a traitor since Ser Redfield and Ser Nivans saw him pledge himself to me last night. They rode for the kingdom to tell everyone of this coming siege and that Ser Leon here was a turncoat.” You picked at something under your nail, not even sparing the men a look. “Oh by the way, these windows are nothing short of tacky, ugly even, nothing like the majestic beasts that represent actual lords.” 

“He must have slipped in while the guards were changing posts,” Wilson tried to lie. 

“Then your guards must be rather awful. What do you suppose was the weapon, good lords? His sword and hands look rather clean if they were meant to have spilled blood from the king’s throat. Furthermore, he knows the forces I command, and he knew what sign we had for surrender.” Sure the last bit was a small lie, but you knew these kinds of men. Small men who think themselves far greater than they were. Eventually, they would crack, they were never as smart as they thought themselves to be. In a battle of wit, you keep them for a long while. Long enough for either your dragons to follow your voice to the throne room overlooking the great bay, or for Setanata to come join you. If they could weasel their way out of this question, questions of your father’s reign and murder would roll after. 

Setanta stood before his father, a father who wouldn’t even use his name. He was getting pissed at this point. His blade rose up and crashed against Lugh’s. As much as he hated the man for how he treated him, he could respect him as a Lord. A well-seasoned man, a man who survived many things, illnesses that could wipe his children, wars that could take a Lord Commander, none of that could get through Lugh mac Nessa. “Stand down boy! Our Queen is getting her throne, I just need to ensure you don’t go rabid, you mutt.” That just pissed him off more though.

“I’m not a rabid animal Lord mac Nessa! I’m your bastard son! If it doesn’t serve my Queen’s goals I won’t do it! I am her proud Lord Commander! How dare you call her our Queen! You stood by the bastard who kept with the institution that kept your power! Before her, I wasn’t worth anything! Your only child that survived everything and you still wouldn’t acknowledge me! You’d rather the family die than let me be legitimized!”

“You have never been fit to be an heir to me. The mac Nessa name is more of a chain than it is a crown. It binds you to an image, you would never be happy being. You were always wild, a wolf true and true, the sigil was the only part of the image you met. You would be far happier being my bastard and never bearing the responsibility of being tied to high society. Never having to play politics just to ensure that there was some balance. Holding awful knowledge but having to hold it tight to ensure nobody you cared for would be hurt by the despicable men power attracts.” Setanta lowered his sword and looked at his father’s deep eyes. He had never seen his father as anything other than a Puritan for the old ways, not a man aching for the new world, to be free from the political game he was thrown into from birth. The game played his wealth and name against the morals he wanted and wished to be able to express. 

Lugh lowered his own sword and patted Setanta on the back. Both men moved to sheath their swords, and Lugh sat back down in the pavilion. He patted the seat beside him, and Setanta obliged. “Lord Simmons, and Lord Commander Wilson, they had King (L/N) killed when he began to make decisions they were unhappy with. I suspect that they may have killed King Graham as well, go protect your Queen. You are a loyal Wolf, and if the old wolf dies, know that I am proud of you, Lord Commander Setanta mac Nessa.” Setanta took a deep inhale willing the small burst of tear back down.

“Thank you, Father,” and Setanta turned to walk into the castle. The sound of a knight’s feet clanking on the ground coming towards the pavilion had him hide behind the wall quickly. The knight walked toward Lugh, and sat beside him. Lugh seemed to be laughing as the knight looked on confused.

“What did the Lord Commander order? He must be rather nervous if my suspicions are true.” The knight spoke not a word, some nameless kid probably promised a high promotion and drew his sword. Lugh laughed once more hearty and no longer covering for some stupid political game, not the Master of Coin, or Lord mac Nessa, just Lugh laughing at his fate. The kid swiftly cut the old man’s head off and grabbed it off the floor. Taking off the way he came, and Setanta cursed under his breath. Twice Kingslayers, thrice fatherslayers. He followed the knight quietly on his feet, he didn’t know the palace. Better to keep the bastard with his father’s head in eyesight. 

You had succeeded in pissing off the Lords. You were too smart a woman for them, too clever, too sharp-tongued. “So in short, you expect me to believe, a useless drunk who was upset with a decision the king made, that didn’t even affect him, managed to get into the throne room here, murder my father, and all without a single guard, who you claimed to have posted at all times, noticing that a drunk as a skunk commoner had not only gotten into the castle during high tide via the bay entrance to the catacombs but also murdered their king?” Leon watched with pointed interest. You were way too good at pissing them off, keeping them talking, and ignorant of the surroundings. He had heard the soft sounds of the dragons moving along the walls, positioning themselves outside the awful metal sigils. 

“I suppose we could be wrong about some details. But your Grace, the throne is yours now. What do you suppose we should do with these miscreants? The Kingslayer and his brat.” Wilson responded trying to ignore the uneasy feeling welling up. 

“I think you and I both know, this good and honorable man is no kingslayer. But you two, you’re seasoned kingslayers by now.” You shot the men a dark look and dragged a finger up to the middle of your lips, hushing the two who now had dark faces. “See I can tell you, that man while he may have done the act, didn’t make the plan. See as much as it pains me to think this way, he was simply too drunk to even form a cognizant thought, much less manage to plan to kill a king. See I think my father started to displease you, so you decided he needed to go. But like the small small men you are, you couldn’t do it yourselves. So you got a scapegoat, who you could blame instead, and take your fall. And whenever anyone looked too deep into it, you had them killed, or you Master of Whispers, you took their tongue. Oh, I know all about that, yes a few of my girls were once victims of yours. You really are a small man, Simmons, you don’t even deserve the title of Lord. Now it looks like you did it all over again because you two fools thought a woman like myself would be easy to fool. So I will tell you now, release these two and you may not be granted a cruel death.” Soft claps were heard from the side and in a small corridor, Setanta stood leaning against the wall, a freshly decapitated head in one hand and in the other Lugh’s. 

“You are so brilliant your grace. Well deducted my Queen! These men, they even had my father killed for figuring it out. So release the pretty boy and the girl, your little charade it’s up.” Simmons removed his hands from Leon, pushing him towards the door. You caught him, spinning, causing your back to face the men. Wilson released Sherry towards you as well. You brushed your hand over Leon’s face to check for injuries. Simmons's hands reached for the dagger once more, grasping it and steadily moving towards your back. Setanta’s eyes flicked towards the hidden hand and his stomach dropped. He moved quickly to block your back, and the dagger ended up embedded in his shoulder, the pain dropping him to the ground. You spun quickly, eyes gleaming with hatred. 

“I’ve had enough of you, you old fool,” you removed one of the long sharp spines from the dragon scales on your shoulder. Simmons was caught off guard and in that brief moment, you dug it into the side of his ribs. He doubled over in pain, and Wilson raised his hands. Even in armor, he wasn't going to win against you, the only person to ever outsmart Simmons. “Leon help bring them to the dungeon. I’ll stay with Setanta until the forces return. They will be a demonstration, the old regime of these disgusting men is over, and my reign, a good and just reign will begin.” Onraxes and Moonfyre let out giant roars from the top of the castle. You had won, and the rule of the dragons would begin once more. 

“My dear subjects, many of you do not know me. The real me, I am no Mad Queen, those are rumors propagated by these two Kingslayers. My father was the late King (L/N), and I am Queen (Y/N) (L/N), the Unbowed and Unbroken, and the Empress of Dragons. The men before me had my father killed, and now have killed your king, King Graham. These two shall answer for the injustice they have done, to all of us. I am here to break the cycle, for too long men who have high names have used it to oppress others, the commoners specifically. That ends with me, never again will an evil man like these two use that as a way to oppress the small folk. I will always champion you, for what is a ruler without love for her people and the love of her people? Today I would like to bring you all into our tradition, my dragons here are dispensers of justice. Today we begin the sacred cinder lands here, before the castle. Ashes are sacred and cleansing, the cinder lands are our celebration. I do not need you to accept it but I would be overjoyed if you did.” You turned from the citizens who had gathered and now faced the bound men. “Former Lord Simmons, Former Lord Commander Wilson, you are charged with treason on three accounts- one for my father, one for King Graham, and one for me. You are charged with murder on three accounts- one for my father, one for King Graham, and the final one is for Lord Lugh mac Nessa. There are numerous others, however, these charges are enough. I sentence you to die,” your fist gripped tight. Moonfyre and Onraxes opened their maws and flames spewed on the land they stood scorching the bodies. Despite the hesitancy of many knights, there was an overwhelming cheer from the citizens, your citizens.

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[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 8: None of You are Fit to Lead

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

“Be a good boy for me,” you gently rubbed Onraxes snout. The capital gates were a few miles away, your army divided to take the two gates. “Keep everyone safe for me alright?” You asked the giant reptile. He purred under your hand in complete understanding. You lifted your hand from him and surveyed the large army on this side. Onraxes turned his head and narrowed his eyes at the gates, guarded by its own small army. Setanta was leading this side of the forces, and you had complete faith between him and Onraxes, your forces would emerge safely. You returned to Moonfyre and climbed onto her back, her wings beating soft in the face of the coming turmoil. It was officially time to begin, as you returned to your side of the siege. Landing atop a rock outcropping, your northern forces had gathered around. Setanta took the Southerners while you took the Northerners keeping the fighting styles separated to ensure an optimal outcome. The Northerners all looked to you atop the beautiful white creature, waiting for one last motivational push before the initiation of the attack. 

“You all have been with me, and for that I thank you. This is the final push we must make. You promised me my throne, it is finally time to deliver. We will harm no innocents, and we shall once and for all break this vicious cycle. We will use all our strength, and spare none who oppose us in bringing justice and ending evil men once and for all. Do you stand with me?” The horses reared up whinnying as the men bellowed cheers. “Then let us ride! Have no fear for your queen fights beside you my loyal subjects!” Moonfyre let out a loud bellow, signaling the beginning of the attack. She lept from the rock the wind scooping under her wings directing her towards the gate. The men rode below you, the resounding sound of the dragon’s wings beating and the horses' stomps ringing out in the otherwise empty area. Moonfyre reared back her wings flapping before the gate. The small army the Kingdom had managed to put together standing before you, a decorated general in front on an armored horse. The rest stood on the ground, swords trembling. The old man however appeared as unfazed as possible. Closer up one could see the reigns in his hands were clattering in his armored grips. 

“You have two options, one, move aside and allow us through. The rightful queen and her army both, in this scenario you get to live to see my reign. Your second option, however, is to burn here and now holding this gate. Your choice now,” your voice was cold as you stared down from Moonfyre’s back. 

“We will die holding this gate from you Mad Queen. You are no rightful queen, only a mad woman who uses dark magic and brought monsters.” The general bellowed. There was a tremble to his voice but he steeled himself atop the horse. The men behind him looked at him wide-eyed. Before turning their frightened gaze to Moonfyre, whose jaw had opened. 

“Very well. You shall die for your insolence old fool.” Moonfyre flew upwards, spinning into the air. The northern men made no moves to advance, instead holding the only way the men could run. They were a safe distance from the gate. The men on the ground searched the sky terrified, looking for the dazzling beast and its rider. The old general closed his eyes, he was no turncoat, he never betrayed his king. He would die with honor here. Moonfyre spiraled down, flames billowing from her jaws, and as she reached parallel with the homes her wings shot out to keep her on level, and the flames burst through the wooden gate eating it completely. She continued past the gate coating the men in her flames as well. The general took a deep breath as the flames consumed him, he smiled. The dragon circled over the heads of the men before turning back to the city once more. She beat her wings fanning the flames and quickening the men’s demise leaving charred corpses still smoking. The smell emanated off the corpses surrounding the area. Moonfyre proceeded inward at your urges forward, the men followed carefully through the flames. On the other side of the city, smoke billowed from the gates, and the great black dragon roared atop them. 

Leon was getting as many of the citizens that had been brought into the castle down to safety as possible. There were still citizens in the street, but he knew the idea of keeping them in the castle could be dangerous. He hadn’t seen Claire or Sherry, he hoped Chris had gotten them out. He had to be fast, the second guards came he’d have to run, no doubt now marked as a traitor. He heard the thundering steps of knights and went to draw the hood on the cloak. “Leon!” It was Ada’s voice that sent fear through him the most, a shiver crawling down his back. He quietly reached for his sword. “You don’t want to do that big boy, Simmons has Claire and Sherry. If you don’t come with us, I’m afraid they’ll have to suffer instead,” her voice was sing-song almost enjoying the torture she seemed to be causing. His hand lowered, and the knights grabbed him. He was led to the throne room, where the king sat on the throne with Willson and Simmons on either side. There were 2 guards in the room when they entered, one held Claire while the other held Sherry. Leon was dropped to his knees before Ada and the knights left, Ada sharing a look with Simmons, communicating something silently. 

His head glanced out the tacky metal sigil windows, the current sigils were for the court not even the king’s. The original ruling family’s sigils had been removed, the majestic dragon head might have made it less tacky. He could see smoke billowing from the gates, you were here already. “Let them go!” Leon insisted even if he was in no position to bargain. The light caught on the stained glass window behind the throne, the only window kept from your family’s rule. The image was the various animal symbols beneath a great dragon. It was meant to symbolize how your family had protected and unified the kingdoms. He knew that much, though he supposed anyone with eyes could guess that. The red light from the glass caught Simmons's face as he sneered, “Release the Redfield, or else her brother might turncoat too.” Claire was dragged out of the room by the guard. “That Queen of yours, she’ll be here eventually. Too bad you can’t protect her very well from here. I can’t wait to get my hands on her, slit her throat myself and blame it on you.” Simmons added menacingly.

“Enough! I as King am making the decision, ring the bells and surrender to the (L/N) faction. She has a right to this throne, and if surrender means my daughter and more innocents may live, I will gladly abdicate the throne to her,” King Graham spoke with authority, and Leon relaxed slightly. “Release the girl, Willson, get the guards to ring the bells. Your men can’t stand before whatever could destroy the gates so effortlessly.” Simmons' face twisted and Wilson made a nervous face as Simmons grew in anger. 

“But they have that bloodthirsty bastard Setanta leading them too! He’ll take the heads of anyone he wants. He may even take your daughter’s!’ Wilson tried to argue, to calm Simmons. 

“I will handle my son myself. He is my bastard, and I will protect the castle. I know he is a monster in battle, but he is still my bastard and responsibility. I may be an old man, but I can still fight.” Lord mac Nessa, the Master of Coin, Setanta’s father, emerged from a room. King Graham nodded to him, acknowledging this plan.

“Do so Lord mac Nessa, and ensure we allow Queen (L/N) to come to me so I may give her the throne.” Lugh mac Nessa slowly made his way out of the room, evenly paced and poised, as was expected for the Master of Coin and one of the wealthiest men in the Kingdoms. “Lord Simmons, Lord Commander Wilson please see yourselves out. Your service is no longer needed,” King Graham dismissed, eyes starting to focus on Leon. Simmons rage finally boiled over, and he reached into his own pockets. He drew out his torture knife, coated in the blood of all who failed Simmons, as the King had just done. In a single motion, he slit the King’s throat. Wilson looked on horrified, and Simmons returned the blade to his pockets. 

“Don’t get cold feet now Wilson, or your blood will be the next to coat this blade. Fortunately, we have a scapegoat, poor Ser Leon, in desperation to serve that mad woman, slit the throat of his king. Have one of your men go and dispose of Lord mac Nessa, then it will be the word of two small councils that the King died wishing to stand up to the Mad Queen, versus the love-lorn fool who betrayed the King once already.” Simmons wiped his hands of the blood and moved to restrain Leon swiftly. Wilson nervously nodded and called for a guard. A rattle shook the castle, and Leon knew that signaled one of the dragons meeting the castle, the meeting point he assumed for the two sides of your forces. The castle was located on the rocky outcropping, overlooking the bay. Another rattling thud shook the castle, you were here and walking right into a possible ambush, and he was here a lure in a trap.

Setanta stood beside you before the castle doors, the dragons resting atop the bricks, ready to climb and burst through the bricks in a fiery rage. The armies were running rampant in the streets, taking care of the remaining soldiers. The armories were all smoking and in flames. Setanta pushed open the doors, leading into the open-air pavilion, minor details had changed, but it was still the same as you remembered from a child. An old man was sitting on a bench in the pavilion, his hair gray but his eyes were bright. Thoughts gleaned through them. “Welcome your majesty and my bastard,” the old man stood, a sword by his side. “Please head up to the throne room your majesty. As for you bastard, I ask you wait here with me,” your eyes flicked to Setanta.

“Go on ahead your grace, Lord mac Nessa here won’t keep me long.” He gave your hand a squeeze in reassurance. You nodded to him, disappearing into the corridors of the palace. Knights bustled about the main halls, so you took the isolated side corridors you remembered from childhood trouble. The sounds of knights bustling silenced and you inhaled a deep breath, before a lithe hand placed itself on your shoulder. 

“Well isn’t it nice my mark came to me. Follow along, you have some very important people that wish to see you in the throne room.” A sinister smile curled along her lips. Her hand tightened around your shoulder, and you let her lead you to the throne room. You kept your head held high, you could regain control. You had to, there was too much relying on it.

#leon kennedy #leon s kennedy #leon s kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x reader #leon x reader #leon x y/n

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 7: Dance with Dragons

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

The Cinder Celebration was an occurrence whenever you won a battle. Your subjects had begun to prepare it when they saw the dragons leave North. Near the scorched grounds, tables had been laid out, one for the Queen and many for the common people. The Queen table was the closest to the scorched grounds. There were wooden beams set up, hanging small lanterns from them. Each light glowed softly, some having different minerals added to produce a beautiful color. The food was being prepared in the common homes, it was a celebration. The castle kitchen made food for all, but the people who wanted to were always welcome to add their own foods. 

The dragons landed on the scorched grounds, well acquainted with the routine. By the time they landed, you had collected yourself once more, the tears dried despite being hastily rubbed away at points. The horses had been gently placed down prior to landing, each horse in one piece, with no scratches despite the large claws of the dragons. “As I said, you can either stay for the celebration or leave. I will not force you to do either. If you stay for the celebration, you may stay in the castle after. The only reason I request you stay the celebration is so you may eat,” you addressed the group struggling to dismount Onraxes. Ada stood on the ground, while Chris helped Piers down. Leon had learned fast, 

“I’ll be leaving, thank you very much,” she swiftly moved to the horses, mounting one in a single motion. 

“I greatly appreciate the offer m’lady, but my daughter Rose is waiting at home for me. I greatly thank you for saving us and will tell tales to my daughter, but I must return to her and keep her safe,” Ethan bowed deeply. You waved your hand to dismiss the bow with a gentle smile. Ethan stood upright before walking towards a horse. A woman rushed forth with food for the knight.

“You should eat, take this for the road. It’s simple bread and meat, but it’ll keep your strength up. You won’t be much good to your daughter if you don’t come home to her.” Natalie had always had a kind heart and took care of a lot of orphans. Even if they were enemies, she always would tend to the weak and weary. Ethan took it graciously from her hands offering a weary smile. Ada didn’t bother with any pleasantries simply riding off from the gathering. Watching the two ride off you stood on the raised ground before the Queen’s table. 

“My dear friends! Today we bring a great victory, we have won the North back! For that, we may celebrate! Tomorrow our pact with the Kingdom ends, and our attack may begin! I have never made you fight before, and I will not make you fight now! If you choose to not fight I will ensure your safety! You all promised me my throne, every single one of you is reason enough for me to take what is rightfully mine! For a better tomorrow for each and every one of you! Tomorrow we will take the capital, we will shed no unnecessary blood! I will not be a queen of the ashes, my strength is not reason to kill an innocent! The evil men will die and the wheel will finally be broken! Are you with me?” A hush fell for a moment before the men began their cheers. The two dragons let out a great roar in their support. The women and children cheered, and with that, the celebration began. Food was plenty, every culture was perfectly represented, northern foods and southern food flowing freely between tables. No high and mighty titles, just people, all celebrating one joyous occasion. The guests sat at the high table, and while you did sit there when eating, you were more often interwoven with your people. The love overflowing in this large gathering, the vibrant smile present to all.

When the eating had finished the merriments began, a group of musicians began to play, and many of the people took to the scorched grounds barefoot to dance together. It was thought that being barefoot on it was almost sacred amongst them. The dragons rested on the sides, their tails meeting each other at the back to form almost a wall. Men danced with women, women danced with women, children danced with children, and men danced with men, no traces of judgment for partners. Luis had absconded with a man as soon as he had finished eating. 

Piers had locked eyes on the man as he laughed and danced like he hadn’t almost died in the North. The concept felt foreign, being able to be exactly who you wanted to be. No disconnect between a named official and a commoner. His eyes flitted over to Setanta, the bastard of a great lord, who was leaning over a smaller common woman, the same one he had seen give Ethan the sandwich. Kids were climbing up his back, hanging from his arms and the woman looked enthused. That sight elicited no emotions in Piers, it was fitting that the bastard raised to believe he was worth nothing would love a woman that gave every child a safe space. So why? Why when he looked at Luis did it ignite such anger? 

“That’s quite an upsetting look for a celebration something must be wrong?” Piers spun his head to face you, he hadn’t even noticed your presence.

“It’s nothing to worry yourself about, your a Queen, my matters shouldn’t bother you,” he tried to dismiss it. He’d rather just suffer alone than air it out to the enemy queen who invited them to the celebration.

“During Cinder Celebration there are no titles, we are all equally happy people, please I would not have a guest troubled here before me,” you were firm but gentle in your tone. You watched his eyes flick to Luis once more and a look you recognized crossed his eyes. “You’re jealous, aren’t you?”

“No…it’s wrong, I can’t be jealous of him,” Piers muttered quickly. His eyes shot down and you placed a hand on his shoulder. 

“It’s ok to love who you wish to. Man or woman, all love deserves to have a space. A safe space to grow and nurture, without fear of society striking it down,” you rubbed his shoulder gently. 

“It is wrong, I can’t love him. He’s my commander, and he’s a man. It’s a taboo, and everyone would think me awful if it ever came out,” his voice was barely a whisper in the sea of celebration. 

“People are free to live how they wish to, in my world, the new world, the better world, if a man loves a man, then he may wed a man. If a woman loves a woman, then she may wed a woman. The only one who can determine if something is wrong, is you.” With that, you dropped your hand from his shoulder and disappeared into the cloud of people on the ash-covered ground. As you wove out, the first Northern Lord, Lord Edrad Emur, asked your hand in a dance. 

By the fifth Northern Lord seeking a private moment, it had become bland, all of them had the same things to say. Thanking you for helping retake their home, ensuring their support in tomorrow’s siege, and of course, strengthening the bond between the crown family and their houses. Playing politics was never fun, but the Northern lords were honorable. They didn’t ask you to wed someone for duty to them, you did have a plan, however, to erase the current council, and install these honorable and loyal lords to the council. The Southerners had grown to trust the Northern lords, since the destruction of their own tyrannical lord house, it was a surprise to see them so endeared to these men. 

Leon was sulking towards the edge of the scorched grounds. His eyes easily followed your movements, and his sulking quickly morphed into broadening as every time one Northerner would leave another would swoop up your hand. He was towards the center of the front of the scorched grounds. It made it easier to track your movements and hopefully find you once more. The rest of the humans were all preoccupied and didn’t notice anyone beyond themselves. The 2 dragons, however, were far more observant.  Moonfyre’s large amethyst eyes were set on Leon, her tail flicking ever so slightly. If Leon didn’t know any better he’d say she was amused watching him. Onraxes followed Moonfyre’s eyes and snorted looking at Leon. The two dragons flicked their eyes over to you. Without much hesitation, Moonfyre dipped her head over towards Leon and nudged him towards you. He was reluctant to move, digging his heels in. In response, Moonfyre simply dragged him forward with her nose. Onraxes nudged the other side once he was before you to encourage him forward. 

When you met his eyes, you stifled a laugh, the sight of the knight who had been watching you all night being pushed towards you with his feet dug into the ground was rather entertaining. To add to that, both dragons working to get him over to you, truly was a funny sight. The Lord that was speaking also took in the sight, excusing himself from your presence swiftly with a knowing look. “It’s a pleasure to see you here Leon, though you don’t seem too happy to be here right now,” you laughed gently. 

“It’s not that I’m unhappy to be beside you, I just didn’t wish to disturb you,” he looked down at the ground. 

“Well now that you are here, and I’m free. Would you care to dance on this joyous night?” You extended your hand out to him.

“I never was much good, you’ll have to teach me,” but nonetheless took your hand. The two dragons cooed at the sight laying their heads down once more. A slow dance song began and you guided him through the dance. Feet moving slowly, hands intertwined, and bodies pressed together. The world around was a blur, for it didn’t matter, every dancing pair were alone in the world. Even with the few missteps, where his feet landed on yours, the smiles held by you two were present the whole time. As the music began to lull, you removed your hands from his and grabbed his face pressing a tender kiss to his lips. You pulled back, and he placed his hands behind your head, signaling you to continue. You pulled back in, passionately kissing each other. As you began the rest of the partners began their own kisses, Piers was hesitant but at the moment he felt courage. He leaned up, and Chris leaned down gently laying his lips on Pier’s own. 

“I’ve been dying to do that for a while now,” Chris’ voice was quiet, keeping the conversation private. Piers leaned in once more, and gentle kisses were exchanged once more.

When you and Leon had finished your own kiss, your hand wound into his own. The music became cheery and light, no longer for pairs but for large groups. Your girls, the ones that worked in the castle came giggling and running towards you. “My dear girls, what has you all in such high spirits? I haven’t seen you all night and yet here you are giggling like you heard the latest gossip?” 

“Well m’lady, tomorrow you get your throne. The true throne that is, not the makeshift one here. You’ve taken such good care of us, each and every one of us. We know typically when someone takes the throne, they have a coronation. We’ve been working on this for a while now. We made you a coronation dress, that we hope you’ll wear. It honors your ancestry and the symbols of those who follow you. We finished it tonight, so you can have it for whenever the coronation may be.” Elli had been the one to tell you everything, a soft smile on her face. 

“Oh my dear girls, I will most certainly wear it. Now go, enjoy the rest of your night. I promise I won’t take any peaks when I return.” There were small tears, you rapidly wiped away. Each girl took their turn hugging you before they all dispersed amongst the crowd. 

“They really love you, you know that right?” You had almost forgotten Leon had been beside you the whole time.

“I do, and I love each and every one of my people. I will fix all the injustices done by those who hurt them, my own ancestors included. I refuse to be another cog in the wheel, playing games with the lives of innocents. Just for being born into a position of power, doesn’t make you better or worse than another. Strength shouldn’t be the decider of what’s correct. I will fight, to give each and every one of them their rightful peace and life. Everyone, no matter their birth status, deserves a right to live happily. Bastard, commoner, or noble lord.” Your eyes caught his. Something had piqued his interest.

“What are your takes on bastards?” 

“I wish in my new ideal world, that the mere concept would be abolished. It is not the child’s fault for being born illegitimate. Take Setanta for instance, he’s born to ‘Great Lord Ulster’ except he treats him like shit despite the fact he himself is the most skilled and brings the house the most honor. Setanta is his rightful heir, but he won���t acknowledge him as anything besides a mutt. He’d rather watch him die, and went as far as to side with the King while he previously had been neutral, just to spite him. There are far too many unhonorable lords, it’s why I respect Northern lords, they legitimized all bastards they produced. They didn’t view them as less than worthy simply for not being born to their wife, for they were still of their blood.” 

“You are so remarkable,” Leon’s gaze was so soft and he pressed a kiss to the hand he held. “Previously when I swore myself to you, you said you only wanted me to kneel if I truly meant it. Now I can say without a single ounce of hesitation, you are the only Queen I will ever follow. My blade is yours, just as my heart is.” He removed his hand from yours and knelt down before you. 

“And you will be the only holder of my heart,” you breathed out before him, taking his face in your hands and giving a gentle kiss on his forehead. “Rise, as both a knight of mine and the only man to ever wield my heart.” He stood slowly, and the men around cheered. Big burly northern men clapped him on the back, shaking him a little. Luis had made his way forward to congratulate him on joining them truly. Everyone was so happy to have another join, they didn’t even notice the looks of betrayal on Chris and Piers's faces. They knew Leon and never expected him to turn against their King, to betray them. This woman, openly said she planned to attack their King and take the throne. She was a usurper and he was a traitor. Amidst the joy, they snuck off to their horses and took off riding, back to their king. They would have gone unnoticed except for Onraxes who roared at them as they rode away. Your head spun to see what had upset him and saw the knights riding away. Your grip on Leon’s hand tightened, a panic settling in your chest. 

“They’re going to tell them about the siege Leon. They’re going to make me kill the innocents…” your voice almost trembled. Leon gripped your shoulders grounding you. 

“We’ll figure it out, I promise.” He soothed, voice as even as he could hold it.

“Leon please, you have to go. They’re going to call you a traitor and call for your execution and the execution of your loved ones. Go, get back to the Kingdom, protect the innocents, or save the others you love. Please, as much as I want you by my side. I need you to do this for me.” You were pleading with him, tears welled in your eyes. You were even shaking, and as much as Leon wanted to protest, he knew you were right. Claire, Sherry, anyone he even so much as talked to in passing casually could be killed. 

“Ok…I’ll get as many of the citizens to safety in the catacombs below the palace as I can. Find me after before you sit on the throne, I want to see my beautiful Queen take her throne.” 

“I promise, I’ll find you before it,” you whispered. The promise was sealed with a deep kiss.  Onraxes moved lowering his neck to allow Leon on and fly him back to the castle, back to the horse that would take him away from you. He should have many questions, when did he become so accustomed to riding the dragons you commanded? Why did Onraxes, the dragon he never had ridden before, allow him so freely to ride him? But instead, all he felt was despair, leaving you and returning to the kingdom that no longer felt like home. You were his home, and tears freely flowed at having to leave you, even temporarily.

#leon kennedy #leon s kennedy #leon s kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x reader #leon x reader #leon x y/n

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

Hey besties no chapter today, my Orgo 2 final is tomorrow so homie won’t update until tomorrow at the earliest. I’d far rather be working on another chapter but this comes first. So for now, enjoy my copying of Orgo reactions.

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 6: Heirs of the Dragon

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

Using dragons to fly up North turned out far faster than horses. The distance that took his horse 2 days, had taken 4 hours from the skies. As you flew deeper into the Northern territory Leon guided you, the view was different from above but certain landmarks were still recognizable. The horde would be easy to spot once you arrived, and hopefully even easier to burn. “There dead ahead,” he shouted over the wind. You nodded your head, driving Moonfyre forward. The hoard had completely encircled the small group, and you nudged Moonfyre to start the flames. 

“Hold on tight!” You called before diving for the hoard, Moonfyre spewing flames upon the backline of one side. Onraxes dipped down on the other side, his flames more destructive and wild than the blue flames coming from the dragon they were seated on. Onraxes roared his loud and deafening roar, being answered in response by Moonfyre. The hoard however paid them no mind. You urged Moonfyre towards the center, flames leaving her mouth as she cut her way through. 

“Mi Reina!” The voice was distinctly Luis, everyone was still in one piece, though they all had seen better days. Onraxes had flown above them spraying destructive flames down before them. Moonfyre had landed, her tail knocking back a large section of the hoard. 

“Which way did that man go? The man who commands them?” You asked, looking at  Luis. “I’ll go after him, while Onraxes stays to protect your group. Ser Leon please stay with them, make sure they’re protected.” Leon dropped from her back, as she batted away another large push of the undead. She spun her head annoyed before blasting them with a large burst of flames. You locked eyes with Luis who had pointed into the large hoard and the even larger storm. “Of course, just our luck huh girl? Let’s stay low.” Moonfyre huffed, flaring her wings out and running through the hoard before beating her powerful wings. Her jaw snapped open to spew flames at those who would reach up toward her. 

The North was infamous for the sudden storms that could form. They usually petered out rapidly but in the time they formed, they could be violent. You leaned your body closer to Moonfyre as she flapped her wings toward the storm. You could make out individual faces if they were spaced out enough. They weren’t even acknowledging you, just continuing with the attack on the group. Moonfyre kept twists and turns tight, avoiding the highly populated areas of the horde. You needed to find the leader, once they were neutralized the horde wouldn’t keep moving. At the center of the storm, you found the man standing alone. He had black rags over him, but you knew the face. You had long thought your twin brother dead, he had been in the castle when your father died. But now he stood before you, one eye matching yours the other an electrifying blue. Rahgor and you were twins, you were born first, but neither regarded the other as anything besides their twin. So seeing him alive, or more so undead caused your heart to stop. Moonfyre came to a stop, rearing back at the lone man. Your hands were still tightly gripping it. He was decaying, but you would recognize your twin even in death.

“Ah, how pleased I am to have one of you foolish lambs bring yourself straight to the slaughter. Another false ruler to cull.”

“No…no you’re meant to be dead,” your voice was barely more than a hushed whisper. In the single moment of hesitancy, your hands slipped from their grip on Moonfyre, and her roar at the man she was unfamiliar with, was enough to send your stunned body falling off her back. The low height she was flying was the only reason you escaped unharmed besides some bruises. The man moved closer, a blade hanging in the decaying arm. It hung loosely but 

“Oh my…who would have thought…my own sister,” his speech became labored as his good hand grasped at the decaying flesh. “If you submit…I’ll kill you gently…” Your eyes looked up full of tears. “I am the rightful…heir…and for the crime of treason…you must die…sweet sister.”

“You are no king brother, you aren’t even human anymore. In your pursuit of power and revenge, you lost sight of our purpose on the throne. We need love and compassion to rule over the people,” your voice was breathy, barely held together. The rotting arm now held the blade to the bridge of your nose. Your eyes had lost the softness and now held a hatred. Where your eyes held emotion, his were dead. 

“That’s why…no woman…can ever sit the throne. Your love…makes you weak…and not even your dragon…could save you from…that weakness.” The blade dug in drawing blood, causing you to flinch slightly. The blade wasn’t smooth like all other blades pressed to you, it was destroyed over time. “This sword…is what I…was meant to die by…instead…it made me stronger…it didn’t kill me…it only killed my heart.” 

“My heart doesn’t make me weak. It makes me stronger, stronger than you could ever be, you foolish foolish boy. An entire army of the dead couldn’t give you what I have. Nobody will ever love you, and as such you can never be a king. Because a true ruler inspires love. Kill me if you want, but you will never garner a throne.” Rahgor lowered the sword and instead grabbed your collar with his good hand. The horde parted once more as he marched you toward the group, Onraxes maw closed seeing you now in the path of his flames. Rahgor knelt you central before the group and leveled the blade with your neck. Onraxes landed immediately throwing large amounts of the undead away. A growl emanated in his throat but he made no move, the blade threatening your life keeping him in place beside the humans. 

Leon moved in front to see the cause of the stillness. His blood ran cold at the execution-style kneel you now were positioned in. How had you been taken off your great white dragon? Where was the dragon? His eyes zeroed in on the snow below your downturned face. There were no tears, only a puddle of slowly dripping blood. His eyes scanned the Leader of the Dead, looking for an opening. Once an opportunity presented itself, he would charge and attempt to disarm him or at least parry the blade to get you out of harm’s way. Kings had egos, most men did, if he started speaking maybe he could goad him into anger and cause him to slip up. 

“My most esteemed guests…I welcome you to my show…Before me is my…treacherous sister…I am the rightful king…King Rahgor (L/N)...and for the crime and sin…of treason and…treachery…I sentence my foolish sister…to die…Are there…any objections?” A sinister imitation of a smile spread on your brother’s face. Onraxes reared his head back, almost as if preparing to scorch more of the undead.

“What makes you the rightful king and not her the rightful queen? You were twins were you not, there’s no age difference. So what makes you more rightful than her?” Leon inwardly blessed Luis, of course, he would have a counter. Leon personally hadn’t studied your family history, but someone that followed you may know better. Rahgor no longer gazed at you, and the imitation smile was gone, replaced by a cold fury at the actual challenge. 

“She is a…woman…which makes her weak…a woman listens…only to their feeble…emotions…and contain…no strength.” The blade was still poised too close to your neck for Leon to make a move. From his face, you could tell he was planning his next move. 

“But she’s the strongest woman to ever be seen. She is the one who brought back the dragons! She rallied actual forces, that required intelligence and smarts beyond, creating a mindless army that will obey everything. She has people of all different backgrounds that she convinced and that believe in her cause!” Leon quickly jumped in. The blade wavered once more and he just needed a little more egging on before he could move. 

“She walked through the storms to keep them warm! She stayed in the most dangerous places to bring back the dragons! She proved herself a righteous and just woman, one we want to follow! Not a monarch who rules through fear and the concept of absolute power! She wishes to abolish absolute power, for what is more corrupting than the idea that you are better just for wielding a power you were born with as a justification for vile actions!” That final bit finally stirred a strong emotion and he removed the blade from near your neck and pointed it forward. Leon took that as an opportunity to charge forward. He threw his shoulder into the man and wrangled for the disgusting blade. He had the arm pinned up, his hand wrapped around the wrist, keeping it from moving but not able to get it to release. He hadn’t even noticed Piers had fired an arrow until it pierced through the soft flesh near Rahgor’s thumb. The blade fell, and Leon kicked it away and elbowed the half-undead man causing him to fall. Leon then rushed to help you up and grab the blade. The second you were upright, Onraxes let out a great roar, and from the other side, Moonfyre descended down upon the hoard, her own destructive flames bursting from her mouth. The hoard stood unmoving, with no orders from their “King.” Onraxes returned to the air once more to billow fire upon the other side of the hoard. Leon held you close, now that you were upright he took note of the jagged cut across the bridge of your nose. However, he also noticed the lack of tears. You weren’t badly injured, more shaken up, and you held to him tightly, like you might fall without support for your uneasy legs.

With the horde not moving, the dragons quickly incinerated them, even taking extra loops to ensure the corpses wouldn’t rise once more. When completed they landed beside you, Moonfyre nuzzling your free side gently. You held onto her muzzle for support to walk before the mess of your brother on the floor. Both dragons snarled viciously at him, the hand that had been shot, had flesh dripping off around it. “I believe it is time for my justice to be served. Today you, my dear brother, have committed an egregious crime against the true Queen. You committed treason and attempted to murder me. You are unfit to rule ever, as you have forgotten what it means to rule. You may once have been my brother, but now you are nothing but a hollow shell and a monster. You abandoned your family and are no longer fit to be called a (L/N), for you are certainly no dragon. I, (Y/N) last of the honorable house (L/N), the one true Queen, the Unbowed and Unbroken, the Empress of Dragons, I sentence you to die.” Moonfyre and Onraxes both reared their heads back and began their flames once more. Your face was cold as you watched his body burn to ashes. “And now my justice is served.” You turned once more to look at the group, your face still cold. “Luis, do you wish to bring this horse back? Or will you make do with another?” 

“I can deal with another, wasn’t even really my horse. Just one of the ones here that I could ride.” He kept his tone light, trying to snap you out of the coldness. Your eyes softened slightly, but you couldn’t get out of your own head. Duty was the death of love, and you had just killed your brother. He wasn’t really your brother anymore, just a shell. But you needed to keep the walls up, it would keep you safe until you could process what had become of your brother. Moonfyre dipped her head down, allowing you to climb up and settle in. Leon’s eyes flicked to you, it wasn’t that you were being intentionally cold, you were just trying to appear strong. He could understand, most of the group didn’t hold your trust so you couldn’t be emotionally vulnerable here. 

“Ser Leon, Luis you two on Moonfyre with me. The rest of you can get on Onraxes. They will carry your horses, you can either stay within my castle for the night, or you can return home. The choice is entirely yours,” your voice held a slight waver but kept up the falsetto of being unfazed. You extended your hand down for the two men to climb up. Leon was first settling directly behind you, followed swiftly by Luis. Luis held tightly onto a spine, afraid to slip off the graceful beast’s back. Onraxes lowered his neck to the ground completely. It still took a small amount of effort to climb onto the back of his neck. Moonfyre flapped her wings gently to not spook the horses. Each of her feet reached down to gently grip one horse per clawed foot. Once the rest were on Onraxes he did the same. With gentle wing flaps, the dragons ascended higher, reaching a height they could easily glide at. The large beasts were careful with inexperienced riders, where you could hold on at high speeds, the weakened humans would be unable. Your hands weren’t even on the dragon’s back, instead holding yourself tightly with the cape drawn around you, it muffled the sounds of your crying. 

“The stars are beautiful tonight,” he whispered, and naturally his arms glided themselves around you. You stifled your tears at the feeling of his arms around you. “It’s ok to cry, it’s safe here. I won’t judge you, let it all out,” You turned around slightly, your hands releasing the cloak. You pressed your face into his chest, and he held you tightly. As you sobbed your misery out on him among the stars, he held you gently. Moonfyre let out a soft purr, trying to calm you. At this moment, it was just you and him, in the stars where nothing else could touch, no kingdoms and kings, just a boy and girl in love, afraid, oh so afraid, but safe within each other’s arms.

#leon kennedy #leon s kennedy #leon s kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x reader #leon x y/n #leon x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 5: Blood Of My Blood

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

The adventure camp had been following the monster’s movements for days, and never had they acknowledged the humans. The further into the Great North, the colder they got. Luis was freezing, used to the weather of the Isles and not the freezing tundra of the North. He still made the occasional quip, he knew more Northmen than any other traveling in the group. He managed to get a chuckle out of even Ethan, who had kept to himself mainly the entire trip. There was no returning to get furs and winter gear, the mission was too important to risk losing the hoards.  The further North, the larger the numbers of dead and monsters were shambling together. Passing over a great ice lake, the dead suddenly stopped. Leon felt a pit drop in his stomach and stopped moving. The group continued moving without him, falling to notice his stopping and break of formation. The horde turned around, staring directly at the group. The horde parted in the center as a far-off man started to walk forward. He began to speak as he got closer, the dead were circling the group and Leon broke off further as to not get trapped. 

“Dear men of the mortal kingdom, a great injustice has been done to me. Many years ago. But I finally have the strength to destroy those who wronged me.” The voice sounded cold, but familiar in a way. It was slow and paced. “I have the greatest army ever seen. I will take what’s rightfully mine. As a show of my strength, they will tear you to shreds and I will raise you once more- to join them.” The man was finally before the group and Leon extended himself to see better. He had hair similar to you, but one eye had three scars over it and a shocking blue eye. He extended one of his hands forward, pointing to the small group and the hoard snapped into action moving forward, the hand’s flesh was rotting and destroyed. 

“Leon run! We’ll hold out here until you can return with reinforcement!” Luis called out, as the group drew their weapons. Ada drew her crossbow, Luis had twin daggers Leon had previously never seen, Piers had his longbow, and Chris drew his sword. 

“Everyone dismount, keep the horses safe, we can’t afford to get stranded out here.” Chris began commanding as the situation escalated. Leon spun his horse around and hurried his horse into the fastest gallop possible. His team was competent, but the horde was too big. The kingdom was too far away, and he didn’t know if they could even face the horde. If he went to the Mad Queen, he would have to bend the knee before her. He would have to turn on his very kingdom. He could contemplate on the ride, even at the fastest his stallion could gallop he would take 2 days at the fastest to arrive close to either kingdom. He could only hope they’d hold out long enough.

“Well your Grace, what is the current plan we have to take the capital?” Setanta was hunched over the mapping table. Chess-like pieces were placed on corresponding places. A dragon head, with various pawns, was gathered at the castle you held. A king with pawns was gathered in the capital space. Finally, a knight was placed in the greater northern area. 

“We have a peace treaty currently until the northern group” you motioned to the knight, “returns from their journey. Once they return, we take a day’s rest to allow the knights from the kingdom to return to the capital. During that day we rally our troops’ morale and prepare for the siege. On the day of our attack, I will fly on Moonfyre to take the gates, and Onraxes will take the other side. The dragons will converge at the castle where I will take the throne.” With one swift motion, your hand swept the dragon and its surrounding pieces to the capital, toppling the king and his pawns. 

“I wish I could say the plan is flawless. But I never wish to see you harmed so I suppose I shall say the faults a bloodthirst bastard like me can see.” He smiled playfully, bumping his shoulder into yours. You laughed slightly, private meetings were always entertaining with him. 

“I believe that to be most amicable my faithful Wolf.” You joked as he howled after the word wolf.

“First off, the innocents, the men marching may accidentally kill them or they may be killed in the destruction of the gate. They may even use the innocents as a shield, too use your kindness as a shield. Secondly, even with your dragons, it is unlikely you could take the castle alone. They cannot fit in the castle and if men were to attack you while within, you would be defenseless without your dragons. Wait until we get through to enter, or at least have someone beside you when you enter. Could be me, could be the pretty boy if he bends the knee. Don’t try to deny it, you enjoy the challenge he brings. But that’s neither here nor there right now. Third, how do you plan to take the throne? You carry no blade, no matter how much power you wield no man will voluntarily give up their throne to an unarmed woman.”

“I am not here to be a butcher, nor the Queen of the Ashes. When the knights return, I will ask them to assure the safety of the people. Get them underground, out of the city. It doesn’t matter as long as they are safe. My dream is to protect those that are hurt and trampled by the wheel, not to be the one trampling them with the wheel. They are the blood of my blood, all of them are my reason to win this war. As to how I will take the throne, I remember from being a child, there were grand windows painted in beautiful colors. And behind the throne, an iron window with the head of the dragon in it. I will give a passionate speech before my beloved dragons begin spewing flames. Burning the evil men within.”

“And if they keep innocents within? Then what my dear Queen?”

“I suppose having one of my knights with me would be best then,” you crossed your arms over your chest.  You raised one hand up to your face in contemplation. 

“I suppose you hope it is the pretty boy, but if he stands against us then what?” 

“Ser Leon intrigues me. I do wish no harm comes to him, but if we must fight him I believe you may be the only one capable of matching him. He may not be the most skilled fighter of the knights. But that sharp mind of his makes him dangerous, and you are the only one who could truly match him. If you must fight him, I’ll bring Lord Edrad with me. As a great Northern Lord, I think you’d be appeased with this.”

“I’ll keep your precious Ser Leon alive then if I cross blades with him. As for Lord Edrad, I do trust him to keep you safe m’lady. He is honorable and won’t betray you just because he’s in an unfavorable situation. Now what was this about an impassioned speech?”

“I haven’t fully thought of it, all I know is at the end I will state their crime of treason, against the true and rightful ruler. How they perpetuated this wheel, and have gone unpunished for allowing the citizens to be hurt by the less honorable lords. Lords like your father, who treated you like a monster solely for you being from another woman who he slept with.”

“You are a righteous and just woman. I look forward to your reign my Queen.” Setanta kissed your hand causing you to roll your eyes and giggle. “Let us return you to your throne room, if you wish to go among the common people, allow a little break with your beloved dragons first. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to care for them properly.”

As you settled into the throne for a short respite before returning out to aid your people, the doors burst open. “You’re Majesty! Ser Leon Kennedy is at the gates and requests your urgent audience.” 

“Bring him here immediately!” You stood upright. Did something happen on the journey? Was he in trouble? Your heart pounded, each minute passing feeling like an hour. Your hand reached for the throne to stabilize yourself. Moonfyre’s white muzzle dipped down to calm your nerves and ground you. 20 minutes felt like an eternity on both ends, hearts hammering out of your chests. 

Entering through the grand doors, he collapsed to the floor before you. You rushed forward to catch him before he could collapse on the hard stone. “Leon. Leon, are you okay?” 

“They’re going to die…” Leon’s voice was hoarse. He looked barely conscious. 

“Setanta bring me some water!” Your voice sounded desperate. He rushed forward with a water skin, uncapping it rapidly, concerned by your tone of voice. You raised the skin to Leon’s lips gently, aiding the tired knight. “What happened Leon?” Setanta rushed back out closing the doors tightly, this was a private affair.

“I’ve been riding for two days. Up…up north, there’s a hoard of dead and monsters. The rest got trapped up there. There’s…there’s a man who controls them,” Leon sputtered out. He was drinking in the water like he had been in a desert. “Please, please save them…I offer my loyalty to you (Y/N), if it’ll save them I’ll kneel before you.” His eyes looked to you in desperation. 

“I do not need your loyalty, Leon. Rise we will take my dragons and fly North to save your group. I only want you to kneel if you truly mean it, not out of desperation to save those you love,” your hands cupped Leon’s face. 

“Thank you,” he breathed. His heart fluttered with the closeness, and the answer to the question. Your hands were soft but strong, not jagged like the scales that adorned you but smooth like silk with the strength of the dragons behind you. Your own heart fluttered at the closeness you had. His eyes were so beautiful, and his dirty blonde hair was gorgeous in the light. But that short moment was enough, lives hung in the balance. You couldn’t indulge emotions, not now, not when he can still leave you. You wouldn’t shackle him and keep his freedom from him just so he could save his dear friends. Your hands released his face and he missed the warmth they contained. 

“Let us go then,” you turned around and signaled for Moonfyre to lower her neck. She gracefully dipped her head down. Your hands gripped the pristine white scales and expertly climbed until you were atop the dragon’s great neck. “Are you coming, Leon?” You raised your hand out. The knight hurried across the throne room, Moonfyre turning her head to look at him. He froze at the dragon’s face now before him, it took a deep breath in. It was either about to eat him for daring to get close or snort on him. Death or approval, how fitting for you he said internally. The dragon ended up snorting on him, hot breath splaying over his body. She turned once more to allow the man to climb up. 

“I don’t know how to ride a dragon,” he muttered.

You laughed, before calming down. You leaned down and extended your hand further to him in aid. “No one does until they do.” Leon clasped your hand, and allowed you to effortlessly pull him up. “Now hold on tight, you may be in my good graces but I can’t save you if you fall off her back.” Moonfyre reared back spreading her wings and turning around to face out beyond the castle. Her great maw opened and from it came a giant roar, signaling to Onraxes her departure. Feeling the muscles under the large dragon move to let out the roar was an unknown feeling. Moonfyre pushed off the stone wall, pushing the air under her with her wings. Her legs curled close. Leon cemented himself unconsciously by wrapping his arms around your waist. It drew a smile on your face. As Moonfyre twisted her body to head North, you laughed as Onraxes furiously tried to catch up, twisting until he was even to the other beast. 

Leon couldn’t help but adore your laugh. In this mystical and magnificent moment, you were the only thing that mattered. The human woman who sat atop the great beast and laughed. You held his heart, and he could only hope for the same in return.

#leon kennedy #leon s kennedy #leon s kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x reader #leon x y/n #leon x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 4: Small Men

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

The following morning the camp group, awoke and mounted the horses taking off towards the North once more. The storm had cleared out, and Leon inwardly hoped it wasn’t going to disrupt you. He wondered how the dragons responded to extreme rains. The monsters were sparse, perhaps they hated the storms as much as humans did. As they proceeded further North, the chill began to set in. Leon thought back to the Northern men in your army, how the furs they wore prevented the harsh winds and deep chill from reaching them. The few monsters they did encounter didn’t even acknowledge the living group, instead shambling further North. 

“I find it odd amigo, that you said there were large groups of monsters and dead that were destroying everything. But now as we travel there’s none. I trust your word, amigo. Something is deeply wrong here.” Leon hadn’t even realized Luis had ridden forward to settle beside him. Even Ada seemed unsettled with the situation.

“Let’s find one and follow it; if there’s some sort of higher authority commanding them that could explain this unusual behavior. Maybe we’ll find it that way. For now stick tight, two lines. Chris and Piers, Ethan and Ada, Luis you’re with me. We never know when they can snap back.”The group rearranged their formations, Piers and Chris in the back, and Ada and Ethan sandwiched firmly in the middle. Piers had the best eyes, the best any of the current knights had ever seen with a bow and arrow. Chris would be the best in back to protect the less experienced Ethan from anything. While Ada was a master in combat, she wasn’t exactly designed to take hits like a knight in their armor. Once settled the group began to move once more, further North in search of a monster to follow on their path.

In the capital, Lord Commander Wilson and the Lord of Whispers Simmons were meeting once more. The catacombs were the easiest place to have these meetings, they weren’t a place for living mortals. No servant’s with prying ears and bustling business. The Lord of Whispers knew as much as he commanded the respect of his servants and would use any means required to keep their whispers to himself, they could betray him for another to increase their own power. He himself had done it, used the Whispers he had heard to gain rank and power. 

“This temporary peace causes a slight problem, Lord Commander. The Mad Queen was meant to torch the boy you sent to speak to her, instead, he returned unharmed and with aid of her in this ridiculous journey of his.”

“I understand your frustration, however outside this castle, none know the Mad Queen agreed to aid them if their journey fails- we could always spin it that she killed them. Kill those who know the truth, and keep power over the citizens. Have you heard any whispers from her encampment?”

“Nothing, there is not a word spoken from her camp. Not a single whisper leaves their walls. We need to plan our move against her, we cannot keep this peace Lord Commander. Her forces cannot be allowed to grow stronger. She has the North’s complete faith, and the South will follow. We are losing land and eventually will only have this god-forsaken capital.” 

“We need to be careful. We killed her father, if we need to we can always kill this king too. Pin it on an extremist, and offer her aid until we can strike against her. We could blame a foreign force, the one Ser Wesker was involved in perhaps.”

“And if she doesn’t believe us? If she learns we murdered her father?  She is no fool, she is too smart a woman to think the street rat with the blood on his hands orchestrated it alone. She will see at the bare minimum- the Master of Whispers was involved. And if there were no guards even a blind man could see the Lord Commander arranged it as well. We need to act against her Wilson, even if it means all our men dying she must be eliminated.”

“That is a fool’s thought Simmons, we cannot get anywhere with the current knowledge of her forces. We do not know what makes them so strong. No whispers return to you even though you are the greatest fear they have, their tongues removed if the whispers go astray. Why would that be? If her army is strong perhaps, they scare the little bugs more than you ever could. Her people may not follow her out of love, but instead out of fear. If we strike now, we ourselves may be destroyed.”

“Everywhere she goes, evil men die, her people cheer for her- and she grows more sure of her justice and that she is the greater good. She believes she’s creating a new world, a better world. A world free of tyrants and evil men. Breaking the wheel, and saving people. Her followers believe this too. This is too dangerous for our shadow reign to be allowed to continue. She needs to be killed, and when it is least expected. If we can gain her trust then we can ensure her martyrdom, and gain control of the kingdom once more by leading her army.”

“If we kill her now, her followers will pick up the same thing. They will find a new Queen to rally behind and infuse them with the ideals she had. The new one may not hold the same merit but she will be made the inheritor of her ideals. We need a plan, to eradicate their forces completely. She will see us as evil men, and as you stated, everywhere she goes- evil men die. We cannot gain her trust, no man of this Kingdom would ever gain her trust. If we strike while this temporary peace is in effect, we may be decimated. If we strike when it is over, we may be decimated. We cannot win against her, we need an outside force, Simmons. Perhaps we should ask for aid from the foreigners Wesker now serves. Or we wait for her to invade, and use the king as a lure? If she wants the king dead for taking the throne she deemed rightfully hers, we can use him to position her and kill her ourselves. We gain the love of the people, the throne, and the strength in her death. We can position our army throughout the streets to ensure none of her army can reach her. Have one of the knights from that adventure group, ‘betray’ us and bring her to the castle, lead her to us, kill the old king, and then we kill her. Then we install the next king, and control from the shadows once more.”

“That is a strong plan, however, there are a few additions I would like to add. If she already believes the kingdom’s knights to be evil men, perhaps we should instead use my dear hired hand Ada Wong to get her to the castle. The knights also have their own moral ethics, they wouldn’t likely go with the plan to lure her to the castle even if she is the enemy, they likely have respect for her as an opponent. I’d also add, we should keep the citizens gathered around the castle, they can serve as a deterrent and obstacle for the army. They wouldn’t be very good at breaking the wheel if they slaughter the same people they say the wheel does, now would they?” 

“Excellent additions, are we at a census Master of Whispers Simmons?” 

“I believe we are Lord Commander Wilson.” 

With a curt nod, the two men departed going in different directions. Simmons ascended to return to his chambers of the castle, his little bugs returning soon with the whispers of the day. He already had one deep within the torture chamber, in a room he had deemed his own. A little cockroach who had tried to betray the spider, and once caught begged for the mercy of the cold and cruel spider. Wilson took off down the long corridor connecting to the barracks. Upon ascending into the weapon’s room, he began to take stock of the weapons. The Knights were well-stocked within the capital, however, it wouldn’t be enough to lead a siege. If the siege was successful, too many of his men would die for it to be a success, and if it failed, the Kingdom would be left unprotected and vulnerable. Wilson was thankful he had convinced Simmons against the siege, he couldn’t lose all his men. Even if Simmons had eroded his morals, he couldn’t allow them to die. His Northern camp had been lost to illness, erasing his involvement in its establishment, and convincing the King it was beyond redemption. All Wilson could think of though was the haunting words Simmons had spoken, ‘Evil men die’, and he shuddered.

Simmons was well acquainted with this great game, if you don’t win you die. The previous dragon in the game- the old king, had died a small man with too large a name. He had no shows of great strength, that his daughter now demonstrated. He was no dragon when placed next to her. As he grabbed a sharp blade in his personal torture chamber, the poor cockroach crying out for mercy and struggling against their chains, he thought of Wilson. Wilson was a small man too, a large title of Lord Commander but a small man next to Simmon’s greatness. Simmons didn’t consider himself a small man though, he was a large man with a small name. When one hears Master of Whispers of The Spider, one wouldn’t assume a man of such power. He gripped the page’s face holding out his tongue, with one hand, as the other teased the blade along the surface, toying with his prey. A dragon would underestimate a spider and ultimately fall to it. The previous king had learned that in a painful lesson, dying with Simmons above him. Simmons had convinced King Graham to abandon looking into the death of the previous King and helped Simmons falsify the documents stating the man they hired was a disgruntled citizen betrayed by the monarchy. As Simmons cut down on the tongue of the boy, he could only think of the next dragon he would bring down- the Mad Queen, and her fanatics. After all, he was no small man, like those around him, he was a pillar of strength and control. He was an ideal king for the Kingdoms, but that would put him in the direct line of danger, so instead he’d shape the King and control from the shadows, something no small man would do he told himself. 

#leon s kennedy #leon kennedy #leon x y/n #leon kennedy x reader #leon s kennedy x reader #fantasy au

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 3: People Will Whisper

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

When the morning sun rays began to shine, Leon was up first, hurrying to the stables, after the night’s display of the queen’s justice. Leon was eager to leave as fast as he could. Sleeping on it, he recognized it wasn’t unreasonable, but it was unethical. Entering the stables, one of the horses was already gone. He privately assumed it was just a messenger, off delivering news from the previous night to other parts of your army. He saddled up his horse, preparing it for the ride to meet up with the rest of the expedition team. 

By the time Luis was up, the sun had fully risen, and servants had begun bustling around. Breakfast was laid out for the castle’s residents. The Queen’s Guard laughed with the servant girls as they ate, even Setanta was there laughing. The only one missing was the Queen herself. “Where is her majesty?” Leon asked Luis as the man picked at his food. 

“She’s out. We got a large number of sick that came from the North the day after I arrived. The False King, he didn’t take care of them, let them die and infections run rampant in the refugee camps. She goes there every day alone, washes them herself by hand, gives them medicine. She has those dragons of hers burn trees down, uses the ashes to help in cleansing them. And if any of them die, she buries them herself.” 

Leon fell into silence, hurriedly eating. How can a queen be so cruel one night, and the next morning, go and take care of the sick all by herself? He pushed his plate back and stood up, Setanata quirked a brow at her. “Setanta pass my regards to the Queen, I thank her for her gracious stay and for lending her aid in this journey.” Leon then turned from the table and began his leave for the stables once more. Luis quickly followed after the blonde, picking up his speed to catch up. Luis was fast to saddle up his horse there, a gorgeous chocolate brown mare. “You travel light I see,” Leon quipped. The man didn’t wear the armor of knights, nor did he carry any obvious weapon. 

“Si my friend, a scorpion is only as deadly as the hidden poison they pack.” He mounted the horse in one swift motion and rode out of the stable. Leon just shook his head before mounting the white stallion he rode and joining the man outside. Luis rode in front as they passed through the Mad Queen’s kingdom. People waved to the two and Luis merrily greeted them. The shadow of one of the dragons passed overhead, drawing amazed awes from the public and Luis. Arriving at the gates, the guards saw Luis off with a vast kindness and even treated Leon kindly. Leon took the lead heading away from the capital and off along the kingdom road towards the North. The two conversed as they rode for hours, the team already far surpassing the expected position, due to the extra night staying with the Queen. “Y’know Sancho, the people there have already taken you in. They don’t like the king’s men typically. But you’re different. Maybe it’s the courage to stand before her and her dragons and challenge her.” 

“How did you know about that?”

“Well she told me in her letter, I wouldn’t agree to work with a Knight of that King otherwise. Besides me, I wouldn’t be surprised if some of her girls heard and spread it around. Everyone there loves her a lot, the last to actually challenge her was Setanta. And now he’s her loyal Wolf.” Luis had a shit-eating grin, and Leon just stubbornly rode forward.

“I’m loyal to my King. That thing last night- that isn’t justice. That’s a public execution.” Luis stilled, briefly, before snapping back into action. “Enough of this, it’s a long ride, and speaking on opinions of a woman that may or may never actually achieve the throne. Right now, we are facing a threat outside of the mortal world.” Luis grew silent, and the two pressed on. The camp wasn’t much further just an hour or two of riding, but things were tense now. You were unexplainable, the way you could never leave his mind. You were like the fire you commanded, wild and unpredictable- you could be brutal and destructive, but you could also be kind and help purify. You were an unexplainable variable in his mind.

Smoke was billowing from further down signaling the camp’s location. Leon and Luis approached slowly, and sure enough, the camp was there. Chris was nestled near the tree line, ready to defend the little camp. Piers and Ethan sat around the fire, Ethan cooking food for the little group, meat skewered and roasting over the open flames. That only left Ada missing, though she might just be in a tent. Leon dismounted his horse, holding the reigns and leading him over to the camp, Luis approached apprehensively behind him still on the back of the mare. Piers looked to Leon before getting up to shake his hand. “Glad to see you arrived Ser Leon, there’s a large storm ahead so we can’t progress any further today. Ethan’s making a late lunch, early dinner from some animals we hunted. Who exactly did that mad woman give us for this journey?” Luis ground his teeth as he dismounted. Piers took the reigns of Leon’s horse and stretched his hand out for Luis’ reigns.

“This is Luis Serra also called ‘El Escorpion’ and his Queen asked him to aid us. He’s from the Southern Isles. He’s not just a skilled fighter but a competent doctor,” Leon was quick to speak instead. Before the conversation had soured on the road he had learned about Luis time as something of a doctor in the Isles. Luis reluctantly handed the reigns over to Piers. Luis joined Ethan, the quieter man by the fire. Ethan offered a polite wave before returning his attention to the food cooking. 

“I know what it’s like to be the outsider, don’t worry. I’m not even a knight, just a really durable idiot who got roped into the King’s army.” Ethan offered quietly. It made Luis feel a little more relaxed, but it also served as a reminder- he was the only one who wasn’t sent by the False King. He had complete faith in his queen if they did all turn against him, she’d answer with righteous fury and flames. She had been the one to gift him the title of El Escorpion, she saved his home, and she loved her people dearly. Leon was looking at the small camp. Piers had taken the horse to a river, allowing them to drink freely. 

“Good to see you again Leon,” Ada’s voice graced his ears. Her hand dragged along the knight's shoulder from behind. A gentle touch to entice him, but all it did was send him into thoughts of the Queen. Was your touch gentle and delicate with unblemished hands so many rulers who never worked a day had? Or were there rough and hardened like the scales of your dragons from clinging to their scales as you flew, and from tending to the people yourself? Ada’s voice snapped him out of his thoughts. “I’m glad we’ll be together again, the Council is paying me well to help you. Most of all, I’m so happy you escaped that mad evil woman’s castle in one piece. This would be such a bore if you weren’t involved.”

Ada had always had hot and cold feelings for Leon. One moment she could deeply crave the knight and another she could want to be on the other side of the country. But in this journey, she wanted him, being the only woman with a group of men, she could have any of them she wanted really. She wielded her femininity as a weapon, a predatory woman, not just in a sexual nature, but also one of the deadliest women the capital knew. She almost resented the Mad Queen for taking her former spot as the most dangerous woman known to the capital. 

Ada’s words though never really hit Leon, he heard them, yes but it made his gears grind. He couldn’t stand the on-and-off nature of her affections. His thoughts once again flicked back to you. You were similar but of a different nature. You flicked between cruelty and kindness, from an outsider’s perspective. You were cruel in your deliverance of justice, and cold to outsiders. But tender to those who you were fond of, and beloved deeply by your people. You weren’t feared because you killed innocents, you were feared for breaking the cycle, for opposing the common thought. Ada was nothing compared to the bewitching nature you held, and it sent a shudder down Leon’s spine. While Ada was a master of many weapons and whispers, they would never stand to the Queen who stood before the flames on that night, the queen who commands two large dragons. Realizing the Queen, held a grip on his heart though, even for just a moment sent a panic into his bones. He was the King’s Knight, he wanted the good of the kingdom, and he couldn’t feel any semblance of love for the “Mad” Queen who loved her people and served to usurp his King. He never thought he’d live to see the day though that Ada had become boring, she simply couldn’t hold a candle to the intrigue you raised in him.

#leon s kennedy #leon kennedy #leon x reader #leon s kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

So as I recover from my finals burnout, just gonna brain dump here. Brought to you by my pagan witch ass.

I feel like if Leon had a witch S/O or even just an S/O with witchy vibes, he’d be the one to put googly eyes on all their crystals.

If you have herb jars, he will sometimes just switch 2. Just to watch the cute determined face you make as that sets you off reorganizing the whole cabinet.

If he finds a jar, it just reminds him of you, he would definitely bring it back for you. The kitchen has a cabinet full of unused, clean jars for whenever they get new herbs in.

Pretty rocks, you already know he keeps a bag in the car, just of pretty rocks he thinks you’d like.

If you’re into bones (like I am), he will go out to find bones with you. Wether that means going in the woods or forest to find some, or just collecting the bones from ribs that get eaten. If you like bones, he’s getting you some goddamn bones.

Legitimately will just show up with anything he finds you use often- crystals you like, candles, notebooks, witchcraft books, incense. Anything and always the best quality he can find.

You ever get the divine feminine urge to set shit on fire, he will fully support it and set it up in the safest way.

Essentially he loves to fed into your passions, it's the happiest he is.

#leon s kennedy #leon kennedy #leon x reader #leon s kennedy x reader #reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Chapter 2: A Queen's Justice

Summary: You are known among the kingdom as The Mad Queen, a ruthless woman with a large military. Seeking to take your rightful throne, nobody who has ever seen you has returned before, all thought to presumably be dead. Your strength is unequal. Ser Leon Kennedy is a knight sent by King Graham to ask for a temporary truce. Hordes of monsters and the undead rising, the kingdom couldn't fight two wars. But how does one reason with a Mad Queen?

Riding back to the Kingdom felt almost boring, compared to the adrenaline that the Queen had brought with her. The blade sat uselessly by his side as he rode through the countryside. No happy towns with kids playing, the homes were boarded up, and the fields destroyed. Leon spurred the horse forward, trying to get the woman out of his head. 

“Welcome back Ser Leon!” The capital guards merrily greeted. Leon waved briefly before continuing on toward the castle. The common people went about their lives, unaware of the troubles beyond the capital. The last trouble these people had was when Albert Wesker, a renowned knight that Ser Redfield had fought beside when was uncovered he was aiding a foreign invasion forces. He had disappeared shortly after, and his title of Knight was removed. At the plaza, a blonde girl ran up to his horse. 

“Leon! You’re back!” Sherry sounded so happy. Leon smiled at her. 

“Of course, not even the Mad Queen could take me down.” He joked. “Now where’s Claire? Aren’t you meant to be with her when I’m gone?” Sherry looked down at her feet. Leon quickly picked the girl up and settled her on the horse. The horse took off on a trot once the riders were settled, returning its route towards the castle. Leon and Claire had been taking care of Sherry since her home was destroyed by the monster hordes. They were lucky to find the girl before the monsters did.

“Pretty boy’s back,” of course it was Leon’s luck to come back at the moment Chris Redfield was in the stables tending to his own steed. Leon dismounted from his own horse, before picking Sherry up and setting her down, sending her off to find Claire. “How did it go? Did you get her to agree?” 

“She…She’s giving us a single man. And in exchange, she wants the man who killed her family.” Chris clapped him on the back.

“Getting even one man from her is a successful negotiation. As for getting rid of that man, well good riddance. Now what was she like, is she really that terrifying? That your heart would run cold, from just meeting her eyes.” 

“She’s, I can’t quite explain. She’s gorgeous in this terrifying way. She inspires strength in her men for sure. Setanta wouldn’t follow her if she didn’t.”

“Hah The Mutt himself, swears himself to a woman! That’s truly a sight, I’d love to see that myself. Enough talk for now you should tell King Graham,” and with that, Chris ushered him off. 

As was promised, Leon returned to the Mad Queen’s castle the week following. The guards allowed him to pass easily once stating his name. The Queen’s Guard didn’t even bother wrangling. It was quiet, almost too much so. Standing before the doors, Setanta was nowhere to be seen. Servants still bustled around, one woman carrying a large basket of linens. “Pardon but where exactly is the Queen?”

“Oh, there’s a council meeting currently. Please wait, is that man beside you a prisoner sir?” Leon looked at the chained man. 

“Yes, I am to deliver him to the Queen directly. He is the Kingslayer,” Leon kicked the man slightly. The fool was out of it but his grin was full of gums and missing teeth. It frightened the poor woman. She scuttled back, clinging the basket closer. 

“Oh well if you’ll excuse me, I must deliver these to a room. He’s such an extravagant man,” the woman shuffled away hurriedly. The sound of boots and clacking armor alerted him to more individuals coming his way. He lowered his head, to kick the feet out from under the Kingslayer. The poor serving girl didn’t need the man to scare her. 

“Ah Ser Leon, I see you’ve kept your end of the deal,” a warm smile graced your face. “Setanta, bring the prisoner to the dungeons to await my justice. While you’re at it go retrieve our esteemed guest, if he’s given my girls any more troubles I’ll wring him out myself.” You pushed open the great doors to the throne room as Setanta grabbed the man off the floor, and hauled him over his shoulder. Leon followed close behind, noticing details he hadn’t previously, the floor was made of a black smoothed stone. 

“I never did get your name m’lady,” he decided to test his luck. The dragons weren’t upon the wall he quickly noted. “A rather impressive castle, to match an impressive woman.” He added. 

“Hmm, my name is public knowledge though I suppose your False King may have erased it. I am (Y/N) of the Great House (L/N), the rightful Queen of the United Sovereignty,” your lips turned upwards. “I have many names the common people use, but I believe that is the most suitable for our interactions,” you did appreciate his boldness.  He enthralled you, nobody ever spoke back to you, and here comes this knight openly challenging you on your fairness. “Since you’ve been so interesting I’ll give you this opportunity. If at any point in this journey, you are to partake in, you feel you need my help, if you can convince me I will aid you with the dragon fire I bring. All I ask in return is that you bend the knee, not everyone just you.”

“I doubt I will need this offer, but it is noted m’lady.” Before Leon could make a smart retort, the doors were once more pushed open, Setanta striding in. A second set of footsteps followed behind the large man. 

“He was causing problems for Addi again, but nothing she couldn’t handle,” Setanta’s low and rough voice was enough to shake most people. A true Southern man popped out from behind Setanta’s broad back and opened his mouth to retort, but once met with your icy gaze closed his mouth once more. 

“This is the man I promised you, Ser Leon, his name is Luis Serra, though he is more commonly referred to in our camps as ‘El Escorpion’ he’s from the Southern Isles. He can be a handful, but he’s incredibly intelligent, and a more than worthy fighter.” 

“Gracias mi reina, a compliment from you is truly the highest of compliments,” Luis knelt before you, kissing your hand. 

“It’s getting late, I cannot in good conscience let you leave now. El Escorpion you are free to return to your room or may stay and ask Ser Leon any questions you have.” You released the Southern man, who instead decided to stay.

“I have one question for you Leon, who else will be in this merry little band of misfits?”

“You and me, Ser Chris Redfield, Ada Wong a hired hand, Piers Nivans, and Ethan Winters. A crack team if I do say so myself,” Leon grinned. As Luis and Leon spoke, Setanta walked before your throne. You raised an eyebrow at the wolfish man.

“The prisoner is ready for your justice, all of the maids have already spread that a show of justice will be occurring tonight. Whoever told Ellie that we’d have the Kingslayer really did all the work for us,” Setanata’s grin was ever-present. 

“Very well, once it’s dark I will reign down my justice. In the meantime let us prepare.” Your eyes turned cold at the very thought. The man who slayed your family finally answering before you, it was finally time for retribution.

As the cold and dark settled in, the castle emptied out. The villages emptied, and a gathering around the scorched area of land. The prisoner was set in the center, with Setanta standing beside you. The commoners kept clear, not crowding their queen. To her sides were the large dragons. Luis and Leon were close to the front of the crowd. “You’ve never seen her justice before, you’re in for a treat,” Luis nudged Leon. Leon just looked at the Mad Queen. A hush fell as you straightened out your cape. 

“My loyal subjects! Before us, we finally have the man who killed my father and your King! He will answer for the injustice he perpetrated! You all choose to follow me, you all agreed to give me this Kingdom! For that, I will ensure justice is always seen through! All men will die, but I am no man! I walked into the storm, I walked into the darkness, and emerged a true queen! My dreams come true! You’re happiness and my reign, that is my dream! Now and forever!” You spun on your heel, turning to face the scorched ground. You raised your hand, and the two dragons fixed their eyes on you. “For the crime of treason against the crown, I sentence you to die.” You closed your fingers down and the two dragons snapped their head back to the man, and from their maws, great flames burst forth. The white dragon’s blue flames contrasted with the black and red dragon’s standard orange fire. When their jaws snapped shut nothing was left in the grounds. 

The crowd erupted in cheers, joy over their queen’s justice. But Leon felt his blood freeze, this wasn’t how justice should work. The white dragon lowered its head and you climbed onto the back. The two dragons let out a great roar, and the people erupted in another cheer. The beasts took off in the air to return to the great castle.

“I don’t know what that was but that wasn’t justice!” Leon burst into the throne room. You raised your eyebrow before the knight. “Now I see why you’re called the Mad Queen, killing someone who wronged you! Burning them to nothing but ashes, that’s murder, not justice.”

“He murdered my family. I assure you, Kennedy, I do not wish to be Queen of the Ashes. My show of strength will ensure peace, however, it is my justice and all who defy justice and perpetrate injustice will answer for it. Now I suggest you go to the room my girls prepared for you. You have an arduous journey before you. If I must be your final villain, return so you may enact your own justice on me. But do not fall before returning to me boy.”

#leon kennedy #leon kennedy x reader #leon s kennedy #reader #leon s kennedy x reader

[red-ropes-of-avalon]

Masterlist

Series

Anima Ataraxia- Status: Discontinued

Masterlist

They Can Live In My New World Or Die In Their Old One- Status: Active

Titles for unreleased chapters variable to change

Chapter 1- Diplomacy

Chapter 2- A Queen's Justice

Chapter 3- People Will Whisper

Chapter 4- Small Men

Chapter 5- Blood of My Blood

Chapter 6- Heirs of the Dragon

Chapter 7- Dance with Dragons

Chapter 8- None of You Are Fit To Lead

Chapter 9- But I Am

Chapter 10- So I Will

Shorts

Leon and a witch/witchy S/O

Satoru putting stars on the ceiling